511th Parachute Infantry Regiment

The 511th Infantry Regiment, proudly known as the “Angels”, was formed in 1943 as part of the 11th Airborne Division. After grueling training at Camp Mackall, the regiment deployed to the Pacific, where it fought through Leyte and Luzon and earned lasting fame with the daring raid on the Los Baños internment camp in February 1945. In June 1945, the 511th parachuted at Aparri in Operation Gypsy, the final U.S. combat jump of World War II. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 511th Infantry Regiment.

The 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR) was activated on 15 January 1943 at Camp Toccoa, Georgia, before moving to Camp Mackall, North Carolina for advanced airborne training. Assigned to the newly created 11th Airborne Division under Major General Joseph M. Swing, the 511th was forged through rigorous marches, live-fire exercises, and repeated parachute operations. The regiment quickly developed a reputation for toughness and discipline, adopting the nickname “Angels.”

Leyte Campaign

In late 1944, the 11th Airborne Division deployed to the Pacific theater and joined the campaign to retake the Philippines. On the island of Leyte, the 511th faced brutal jungle and mountain fighting as they engaged entrenched Japanese defenders. The regiment’s paratroopers proved their endurance in close combat, battling across ridges and ravines in some of the harshest terrain of the Pacific war. Their actions helped secure the island, paving the way for the return of General Douglas MacArthur to the Philippines.

Luzon and the Los Baños Raid

In January 1945, the 511th moved to Luzon, advancing south toward Manila. Fighting through Japanese defenses in towns, rice paddies, and mountain strongholds, the regiment distinguished itself in relentless offensive action.

On 23 February 1945, the 511th conducted one of the most celebrated missions of World War II: the raid on the Los Baños internment camp. Working with Filipino guerrillas and coordinated with amphibious forces, paratroopers of the regiment executed a precisely timed parachute assault to rescue more than 2,100 civilian prisoners held by the Japanese. The raid, often cited as one of the most successful airborne operations in history, showcased the boldness and skill of the regiment.

Operation Gypsy – Aparri Drop

In June 1945, the 511th PIR took part in Operation Gypsy, the final U.S. combat parachute assault of World War II. The regiment parachuted onto the drop zones at Aparri, in northern Luzon, linking up with Filipino guerrillas and cutting off retreating Japanese forces in the Cagayan Valley. Though the war was nearing its end, the operation symbolized the airborne’s enduring role in striking deep, disrupting enemy movements, and hastening Allied victory.

Occupation of Japan

After Japan’s surrender in August 1945, the 511th moved with the 11th Airborne Division to Tokyo as part of the Allied occupation force. For several years, the “Angels” performed security duties and helped stabilize postwar Japan before the regiment was inactivated during postwar drawdowns.

Legacy and Honors

• Campaigns: Leyte, Luzon.

• Airborne Operations: Leyte (combat insertion), Los Baños raid, and Operation Gypsy at Aparri.

• Decorations: Presidential Unit Citation, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, among others.

• Key Figures: Major General Joseph M. Swing (division commander), Lt. Col. Edward H. Lahti (511th commander at Los Baños).

• Nickname: “Angels”, reflecting the regiment’s official insignia and reputation.

The 511th Infantry Regiment’s combat record—spanning jungle warfare, legendary raids, and the final American combat jump of WWII—cemented its place in airborne history. Its paratroopers embodied courage, sacrifice, and innovation in some of the most demanding campaigns of the Pacific War.

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Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 511th Infantry Regiment.