3rd Infantry Regiment

The 3rd Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard” is the oldest active-duty infantry regiment in the U.S. Army, dating back to 1784. Known for its ceremonial duties at Arlington National Cemetery and its combat record from the War of 1812 to Iraq and Afghanistan, the Old Guard represents the living heritage of the Army. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 3rd Infantry Regiment.

The 3rd Infantry Regiment was constituted in 1784, making it the oldest active regiment in the Regular Army. Originally formed to secure the American frontier after the Revolutionary War, the regiment quickly became a cornerstone of U.S. military tradition.

19th Century Campaigns

The regiment fought in the War of 1812, gaining honors at battles such as Lundy’s Lane and Fort Erie. It later participated in the Mexican-American War, where it distinguished itself in campaigns from Vera Cruz to Chapultepec. During the Civil War, elements of the 3rd served with distinction in numerous engagements across the Eastern Theater. Following the war, the regiment participated in Indian Wars campaigns on the western frontier.

20th Century Conflicts

The 3rd Infantry Regiment continued to serve through the Spanish-American War and Philippine Insurrection, before joining the American Expeditionary Force in World War I, primarily in security and training roles. In World War II, the regiment was restructured, with its battalions serving in various theaters, including Europe and the Pacific.

Ceremonial & Guard Duties

Since 1948, the 3rd Infantry Regiment has been stationed at Fort Myer, Virginia, and designated as the Army’s official ceremonial unit. It performs some of the Army’s most visible duties, including:

• Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

• Conducting military funerals with full honors.

• Serving as the escort to the President of the United States and providing ceremonial support for state functions in the nation’s capital.
  The regiment is also the only Army unit authorized to march with fixed bayonets in ceremonies.

Modern Combat Deployments

Though widely recognized for its ceremonial role, the 3rd Infantry Regiment has continued to serve in combat. Elements deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, performing security, training, and combat operations. Its dual identity as both a ceremonial and combat-capable regiment makes it unique within the Army.

Identity & Legacy

• Nickname: “The Old Guard”

• Motto: “Noli Me Tangere” (“Touch Me Not”)

• Unique Distinction: The oldest active infantry regiment in the U.S. Army; official Army ceremonial unit.

• Decorations: Campaign streamers from nearly every American conflict since 1812.

Enduring Significance

The 3rd Infantry Regiment is a living bridge between America’s past and present. From frontiers and battlefields to solemn duty at Arlington, it represents the Army’s history, traditions, and sacrifices more than any other single unit. Its Soldiers remind the nation that the Army’s heritage is not only fought in combat but also honored in ceremony.

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Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 3rd Infantry Regiment.