The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, also known as the "Rakkasans," has a rich and storied history that spans over seven decades. The regiment was first constituted on 14 September 1942, as the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment, and was assigned to the 11th Airborne Division. The name "Rakkasan" is derived from the Japanese word for "parachute" or "umbrella," which was given to the regiment by the Japanese during World War II due to their distinctive airborne tactics.
Early Years and World War II
The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment played a significant role in several key battles during World War II, including the liberation of the Philippines and the invasion of Japan. The regiment was known for its bravery and sacrifice, earning numerous awards and decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation. On 30 August 1945, the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment was inactivated in Japan, marking the end of its initial period of service.
Reactivation and the Korean War
On 1 August 1946, the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment was reactivated at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and was redesignated as the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment. During the Korean War, the regiment saw extensive combat, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Incheon and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment earned numerous awards and decorations during the Korean War, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
| Conflict | Battles | Awards |
|---|---|---|
| World War II | Liberation of the Philippines, Invasion of Japan | Presidential Unit Citation |
| Korean War | Battle of Incheon, Battle of Chosin Reservoir | Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation |
Key Points
- The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment was first constituted on 14 September 1942, as the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment.
- The regiment played a significant role in several key battles during World War II, including the liberation of the Philippines and the invasion of Japan.
- The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment was reactivated on 1 August 1946, and was redesignated as the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment.
- The regiment saw extensive combat during the Korean War, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Incheon and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir.
- The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment earned numerous awards and decorations during its service, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Post-Korean War and Vietnam
Following the Korean War, the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment continued to serve, participating in several peacetime deployments and training exercises. During the Vietnam War, the regiment did not see combat as a unit, but many of its soldiers served in various capacities, including as advisors and trainers. The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment was inactivated on 25 May 1957, and was reactivated on 1 February 1959, as the 187th Infantry Regiment.
Modern Era
Today, the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment is part of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and continues to serve as an elite airborne unit. The regiment has participated in several deployments, including to Afghanistan and Iraq, and has earned numerous awards and decorations for its service. The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment remains a proud and storied unit, with a rich history and a strong tradition of bravery and sacrifice.
What is the origin of the name "Rakkasans"?
+The name "Rakkasans" is derived from the Japanese word for "parachute" or "umbrella," which was given to the regiment by the Japanese during World War II due to their distinctive airborne tactics.
What conflicts has the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment participated in?
+The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment has participated in several conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The regiment has also participated in several peacetime deployments and training exercises.
What awards and decorations has the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment earned?
+The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment has earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, and the Valorous Unit Award.
Meta description: The 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, also known as the “Rakkasans,” has a rich and storied history that spans over seven decades, with service in World War II, the Korean War, and several peacetime deployments.
