The 1st Battalion (Airborne), 143rd Infantry Regiment is an active National Guard airborne infantry battalion, headquartered in Texas with companies across multiple states. Descended from the 36th Infantry Division and its heroic service in Italy during World War II, the battalion continues the airborne tradition with paratroopers trained for global rapid deployment. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 143rd Infantry Regiment.
The 143rd Infantry Regiment was first organized as part of the 36th Infantry Division, Texas Army National Guard. During World War II, the 143rd landed at Salerno in September 1943, fought at San Pietro and Monte Cassino, and was part of the Anzio breakout and drive to Rome. The regiment later advanced through southern France and into Germany. Its Soldiers earned multiple individual decorations, including Medals of Honor awarded to men like Staff Sergeant Thomas E. McCall, recognized for extraordinary heroism near San Angelo, Italy, in January 1944.
Modern Activation as Airborne Infantry
In 2010, the U.S. Army reactivated the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 143rd Infantry Regiment as part of the modular transformation of the National Guard. This marked a rare case where a Guard unit was specifically created with an airborne mission, directly augmenting active-duty airborne formations.
Structure & Mission
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Headquarters: Texas Army National Guard
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Companies: Based in Texas, Alaska, Rhode Island, and other states.
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Role: Airborne infantry specializing in parachute assault, airfield seizure, rapid deployment, and reinforcement of active airborne divisions such as the 82nd Airborne and 173rd Airborne Brigade.
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Training: Regular joint training with active-duty airborne units ensures readiness for immediate global deployment.
Combat Deployments & Operations
The battalion has deployed Soldiers in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria. Its paratroopers also take part in multinational airborne exercises across Europe and the Pacific, strengthening partnerships and honing parachute insertion skills.
Identity & Legacy
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Motto: “Arms Secure Peace.”
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Symbolism: The regiment’s insignia reflects both its Texas Guard roots and its airborne mission.
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Heritage: A unique blend of WWII combat lineage from the 36th Infantry Division and the modern airborne ethos of “first in, ready now.”
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Notable Figures:
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SSG Thomas E. McCall (MOH) – Italy, 1944
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Other Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star recipients from the regiment’s WWII service in Italy.
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Enduring Role
The 1st Battalion (Airborne), 143rd Infantry Regiment stands as a living bridge between the storied past of the 36th Infantry Division and the modern airborne force. Its Soldiers embody the citizen-Soldier tradition of the National Guard while meeting the exacting standards of airborne operations alongside America’s elite paratroopers.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 143rd Infantry Regiment.