Emily Flores
Some U.S. units aren’t just part of the military—they become the story everyone remembers. Their symbols carry weight, their training pushes limits, and their actions inspire generations. These warriors step into danger first and leave behind a legacy of courage.
442nd Regimental Combat Team
We start with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a WWII force built mainly of Japanese Americans who fought with exceptional courage. Known as the most decorated unit for its size and service, they earned over 4,000 Purple Hearts. In fact, their motto, “Go for Broke”, still echoes in pop culture and memorials today.
The Old Guard (3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment)
Shifting gears from combat to ceremony, meet The Old Guard. This is the oldest active-duty infantry unit that has served without pause since 1784. They carry out ceremonial duties at Arlington National Cemetery, most famously the “twenty-one steps” at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Their polished routines reflect the quiet strength behind a nation’s reverence for its fallen.
1st Marine Division (“The Old Breed”)
Zooming in on Marine history, the 1st Marine Division stands tall. Nicknamed “The Old Breed,” they battled through Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa during WWII. They were also the first to enter the Gulf and Iraq wars. The nickname stems from the Guadalcanal’s brutal fighting, a legacy etched in Marine culture.
101st Airborne Division (“Screaming Eagles”)
The 101st Airborne Division, known as the “Screaming Eagles,” made history with their D-Day jump into Normandy during WWII. They advanced through Operation Market Garden and later contributed to key operations in Iraq. Even the eagle patch on their uniform stands for years of frontline service and relentless courage.
1st Cavalry Division (“The First Team”)
Let’s ride ahead with the 1st Cavalry Division. Once mounted on horseback, they became an airmobile unit during the Vietnam War. Their bravery at Ia Drang also helped them earn a Presidential Unit Citation. Though the tactics changed, their patches and ceremonial sabres remain reminders of the cavalry spirit that shaped them.
75th Rangers Regiment
If you think your workout is tough, try joining the 75th Ranger Regiment. These elite soldiers knock out 12-mile marches like it’s leg day. They’re the ones who helped eliminate Osama bin Laden. Oh, and “Ranger up”? It’s not just a catchphrase—it’s how they wake up in the morning.
4th Infantry Division (“Ivy Division”)
Highlighting tactical milestones, the 4th Infantry Division was the first U.S. group on German ground in WWII’s Operation Cobra. They later took part in major deployments in Iraq. Additionally, their operations extended into Afghanistan as well. The “Ivy” nickname stems from the Roman numeral IV, which represents the division’s number with symbolic simplicity.
Marine Raiders (MARSOC)
The Marine Raiders hold fast to a legacy born in World War II. As modern special operations forces, they’ve led missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Somalia. The stiletto blade on their patch reflects the sharp discipline they’re known for. That symbol traces back to the rugged missions of Guadalcanal, where their legacy first took shape.
82nd Airborne Division (“All American”)
Airborne history wouldn’t be complete without the 82nd. This division led to jumps into Sicily and Normandy, and over the decades, they have also evolved into a rapid-deployment force used worldwide. Nicknamed “All American” for their nationwide roster, the unit’s “AA” patch is now proudly worn well outside military uniforms.
160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (“Night Stalkers”)
If the mission’s after dark, chances are the “Night Stalkers” are involved. The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment flew secret missions into Mogadishu. They also took part in the raid to capture bin Laden. Their black-painted MH‑60 Black Hawks and low-level tactics have earned them a reputation marked by stealth fused with daring execution.