1st Infanrty Division
"Big Red One"
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From the trenches of Cantigny and the beaches of North Africa to the steaming jungles of Vietnam, dedication to duty and the distinction of being first are traditions of which the 1st infantry Division can be proud. The 1st Infantry Division was the first division to go overseas, land in France, meet the enemy and enter Germany during World War I. In World War II, it was the first to reach Britain and France. On July 12, 1965, the 2nd Brigade of the Big Red One landed in Vietnam, the first element of an infantry division to arrive. Since arriving in Vietnam more than four years ago the Big Red One has participated in many significant battles and operations such as Birmingham, Junction City, Billings, Shenandoah II, Quyet Thang, Loc Ning V, An Loc and operation Toan Thang. One of the major contributions to the peace effort has been the 1st Infantry Division's pacification program. Because soldiers of the Big Red One have ferretted out the Viet Cong infrastructure, villages have gained stability and security. July 1969 marked the beginning of a coordinated war effort between Big Red One soldiers and members of the Army of Republic of Vietnam's 5th Division. This program, which is referred to as "Dong Tien" (Progress Together), resulted in victories over the enemy while preparing the ARVN soldier to assure security in his homeland. In December of last year, President Nixon announced that the 1st Division would be one of the major elements of the Phase III redeployment. The division was reduced in strength and moved to Ft. Riley, Kan. After almost five years, the Big Red One's mission in the Republic of Vietnam was completed.
