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Legacy |
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"In
all of the major wars of the United States from the
American Revolution through the conflict in Southeast
Asia the dominant combat arm of the United States Army
has been the infantry."
BG
James L. Collins
Chief of Military History (1971) |
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The oldest and largest branch of the U.S. Army, the U.S. Army Infantry
was established on June 14, 1775, when the Continental Congress ordered
the formation of ten companies of riflemen. The riflemen comprised
the first armed force of a new nation… a nation destined to
become the greatest democracy the world has ever known.
Since that time the Infantry has gone where other forces could
not go and accomplished missions others could not attempt. The story
of the "Queen of Battle" has been written by individual
Infantrymen who have done their duty with pride, courage and honor.
Their suffering and sacrifices won our freedom, preserved that freedom
for over two centuries, and will guarantee it in the future. Some
were called heroes, some were not…but they were all members
of a band of brothers who fought for their country and the cause
of freedom.
We believe our children must learn that there are values and beliefs
worth living for and worth dying for; that the freedom and liberty
we enjoy today has come at a high price; and that the American values
of patriotism, duty, courage and leadership are the hallmarks of
the Infantry and must be preserved.
The Foundation believes this legacy belongs to the American people
and that every citizen should have the opportunity to see and learn
about what Infantrymen have done, are doing now and will do in the
future.
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