3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)

3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)
Unit name	3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)
Dates	1784–present
Country	United States
Branch	United States Army
Type	Infantry
Role	Honor guard, ceremonial infantry, security
Garrison	Fort Myer, Virginia
Nickname	The Old Guard
Motto	"Noli Me Tangere"

3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) is the oldest active-duty infantry regiment in the United States Army, serving since 1784. The regiment performs ceremonial duties in the National Capital Region, conducts funerary operations at Arlington National Cemetery, and operates as a combat-capable infantry unit within the United States Army Forces Command. It supports high-profile events for the President of the United States, the Department of Defense, and foreign dignitaries while maintaining deployable readiness.

History

The regiment traces lineage to the post‑Revolutionary reorganization directed by Continental Congress and George Washington that produced units like the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Infantry, later consolidated into the modern regiment. During the War of 1812 the unit fought in campaigns connected to the Battle of Bladensburg and the defense of Washington, D.C., linking it to figures such as James Madison and operations near Fort McHenry. In the Mexican–American War elements served in campaigns associated with Winfield Scott and the occupation of Mexico City. The regiment's Civil War service intersected with the Army of the Potomac and actions at Second Battle of Bull Run, reflecting ties to commanders like George B. McClellan and George G. Meade. During the Spanish–American War and the subsequent Philippine–American War the regiment operated in expeditionary roles linked to policy outcomes from the Treaty of Paris (1898). In the 20th century the unit contributed to homeland defense during both World War I and World War II and later supported Cold War posture while evolving ceremonial missions during the administrations of presidents such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman.

Organization and Units

The regiment is headquartered at Fort Myer, adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery and near The Pentagon. Organizational elements include multiple infantry companies, a headquarters company, the Fife and Drum Corps (United States), and the Regimental Band known as "The U.S. Army Band". Units perform duties ranging from platoon-level sentry operations to battalion staff functions tied to United States Army Training and Doctrine Command and United States Army Forces Command tasking. The regiment coordinates with agencies such as the United States Secret Service, United States Capitol Police, and the National Park Service for ceremonial and security missions. Elements have been attached in joint operations alongside formations like 82nd Airborne Division and partnered with commands including U.S. Northern Command for homeland support.

Duties and Ceremonial Roles

The Old Guard executes ceremonial missions including state funerals for presidents such as John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, state arrival ceremonies for foreign leaders like Queen Elizabeth II and Emperor Akihito, and public commemorations at symbols including the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It provides funeral escorts, color guard detachments, and pallbearer teams, interacting with institutions such as the White House and the United States Congress. The unit's drill performances and ceremonial presence are showcased at events like the Presidential Inauguration and the National Memorial Day Concert, often coordinating with the United States Marine Corps Band and civilian organizations including the American Legion.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington Duties

The regiment is best known for its guardianship of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a mission tied to the interment ceremonies following World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Old Guard sentinels conduct the 24-hour vigil, adhering to protocols developed in concert with the Arlington National Cemetery administration and influenced by commemorative practices from nations represented at the Temple of the Unknown Soldier sites. The regiment manages gravesite escorts, memorial wreath-laying ceremonies for figures such as John F. Kennedy Jr. and performs adjacency security for high-profile burials including those of Medal of Honor recipients and senior officials from the Department of Defense.

Combat and Deployment History

Beyond ceremonial duties, the regiment has repeatedly mobilized for combat and stability operations. Units deployed to theaters tied to the Global War on Terrorism, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, partnering with formations like Multi-National Force – Iraq and ISAF. Historical expeditionary deployments included service in the Philippine Insurrection and contributions to post‑World War II occupation duties in Germany and Japan. The Old Guard has supported domestic responses to national emergencies, operating under directives from Federal Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security authorities during crises such as national security events in the National Capital Region.

Traditions, Insignia, and Uniforms

The regiment preserves traditions such as the distinctive Fife and Drum Corps (United States) uniforms modeled on Continental Army attire and the unique Old Guard ceremonial dress glazed by historical precedent from uniforms associated with leaders like George Washington. The regimental insignia and distinctive unit insignia incorporate symbols referencing engagements like the Battle of New Orleans and heraldry connected to Revolutionary origins. Uniform elements include the blue and buff color schemes reminiscent of Uniforms of the Continental Army and accoutrements used during State funerals and vigil duty. Ceremonial drill movements draw on practices promulgated by historic drill manuals used by figures such as Baron von Steuben.

Honors and Decorations

The regiment's colors bear campaign streamers from conflicts including War of 1812, Mexican–American War, Civil War, World War II, and the Global War on Terrorism. Unit awards include citations linked to service under theater commands such as United States Central Command and commendations reflecting actions during operations associated with leaders like General Raymond Odierno. Members have been individually recognized with decorations including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star for valor in engagements spanning the regiment's long history.

Category:Infantry regiments of the United States Army Category:Military units and formations established in 1784 Category:United States Army units and formations in the National Capital Region