1st Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment (United States)

1st Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment (United States) is a battalion of the 105th Infantry Regiment, a historic unit within the New York Army National Guard. It is currently assigned to the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. The battalion's lineage traces back to militia formations in New York and includes distinguished service in the Pacific War during World War II.

History

The battalion's origins lie in various New York National Guard companies organized in the early 20th century, which were consolidated to form the 105th Infantry Regiment in 1922. The regiment was a core component of the 27th Infantry Division, a formation with deep roots in the New York Army National Guard. For decades, the unit trained across New York and at major installations like Camp Smith and Fort Drum, preparing for both state and federal missions under the command of the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs.

World War II

Mobilized for federal service in 1940, the battalion deployed with the 27th Infantry Division to the Pacific Theater. It saw intense combat during the Battle of Makin in the Gilbert Islands, where it faced fierce resistance from Imperial Japanese Army forces. The battalion's most severe trial came during the Battle of Saipan, where it was positioned at Tanapag and endured a devastating assault during the largest Banzai charge of the war on July 7, 1944, suffering catastrophic casualties but ultimately holding its position. Following Saipan, the unit also participated in the Battle of Okinawa, engaging in difficult fighting before the end of hostilities. For its actions in the Philippines campaign, the regiment was awarded the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation.

Post-World War II service

After post-war demobilization, the battalion was reconstituted in the New York Army National Guard. It underwent numerous reorganizations, aligning with the Pentomic and later ROAD structures during the Cold War. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, elements of the battalion were activated for state duties, including responses to natural disasters and civil disturbances. Following the September 11 attacks, soldiers from the battalion deployed in support of Operation Noble Eagle for homeland security missions. It later contributed personnel to larger deployments for the War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War as part of the Global War on Terrorism.

Notable members

* Herman Bottcher – Awarded two Distinguished Service Crosses for extraordinary heroism while serving with the regiment's 2nd Battalion on New Guinea. * Thomas A. Baker – A Medal of Honor recipient for his actions on Saipan with Company A, 105th Infantry Regiment. * William O'Brien – Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for gallantry while commanding the battalion during the defense against the Banzai charge on Saipan.

Honors and awards

The battalion shares in the lineage and honors of its parent regiment. Its campaign participation credits include World War II campaigns such as the Central Pacific, Western Pacific, and Ryukyus. The unit was awarded the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for service during the period of July to December 1944. Individual soldiers have earned high decorations including the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, and Silver Star for valor displayed in combat, particularly during the Battle of Saipan.

Category:Infantry battalions of the United States Army Category:New York Army National Guard Category:Military units and formations established in 1922