3rd Infantry Regiment (United States)

3rd Infantry Regiment (United States) is the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the United States Army, tracing its lineage to 1784. Known as "The Old Guard," it is best known for its ceremonial duties in the Washington, D.C. area, including guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The regiment also provides security for the National Capital Region and maintains a deployable infantry battalion for global contingencies.

History

The regiment was first constituted in 1784 as the First American Regiment following the American Revolutionary War, serving on the frontier during the Northwest Indian War. It fought with distinction in the War of 1812, notably at the Battle of Lundy's Lane, and later participated in the Mexican–American War, including the Battle of Monterrey. During the American Civil War, it served in the Army of the Potomac, seeing action at pivotal battles like Antietam and Gettysburg. In the 20th century, the regiment deployed to the Western Front in World War I and fought across the Pacific Theater in World War II, from New Guinea to the Philippines. Its modern ceremonial mission began in 1948 when it was designated the official Army ceremonial unit and took over the duties at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Lineage and honors

The regiment's official lineage is maintained by the United States Army Center of Military History, recognizing its continuous service since 1784. Its campaign participation credits span every major American conflict, earning a Presidential Unit Citation for actions in the Vietnam War. The regimental coat of arms features a buff and blue color scheme, a nod to the uniform of the Continental Army, and the motto "Noli Me Tangere." The 1st Battalion carries the regiment's historic colors, including battle streamers for the War of 1812, the Mexican–American War, and World War II.

Organization and structure

Headquartered at Fort Myer, Virginia, the regiment is composed of several battalions and specialized companies. The 1st Battalion performs the public ceremonial missions, including state funerals at Arlington National Cemetery and arrivals for foreign dignitaries at the White House. The 4th Battalion is the regiment's combat-ready component, trained for infantry missions worldwide. Specialized elements include the Continental Color Guard, the Commander-in-Chief's Guard in Revolutionary War uniforms, and the renowned U.S. Army Drill Team. The regiment also maintains the Caisson Platoon, which provides horses and caissons for military funerals.

Notable members

Many distinguished soldiers have served in the regiment, including General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, who was a junior officer in the unit early in his career. Other notable figures include Civil War Union officer Rutherford B. Hayes, who later became the 19th President of the United States, and Medal of Honor recipient James H. Howard, a World War II Army Air Forces pilot who served with the regiment early in his military service. Renowned explorer John C. Frémont also served with the regiment during the 1840s.

In popular culture

The regiment's solemn duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has been depicted in films such as *The Unknown Soldier* and featured in documentaries by networks like the History Channel. Its precise drill ceremonies are a staple of televised events in Washington, D.C., including presidential inaugurations and memorial services. The regiment's history and traditions have been chronicled in books, including *"The Old Guard: A Photographic History"* and *"On Guard: The Story of the Old Guard."*