The 502nd Infantry Regiment, widely associated with the “Strike” identity and the nickname “Five-Oh-Deuce,” is one of the historic regiments of the 101st Airborne Division. The regiment fought in Normandy, Operation Market Garden, and Bastogne during World War II and later served extensively in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
The regiment began as the 502nd Parachute Infantry Battalion and was expanded into the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment in 1942 before joining the 101st Airborne Division.
World War II
The 502nd PIR jumped into Normandy on D-Day, participated in Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands, and fought on the northern sector of the Bastogne perimeter during the Battle of the Bulge.
Vietnam War
1st Battalion and 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division. The regiment’s battalions fought in numerous operations during the division’s transition from airborne to airmobile warfare.
The 502nd Infantry did not participate in the May 1969 Battle of Hamburger Hill. The principal U.S. battalions in that battle included 3-187 Infantry, 1-506 Infantry, and 2-501 Infantry, with A Company, 2-506 Infantry reinforcing the fight.
Modern Deployments
The 502nd later served in the Sinai as part of the Multinational Force and Observers, deployed during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and conducted repeated combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Current Status
- 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment
- 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment
Both battalions remain active with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 502nd Infantry Regiment.