137th Infantry Regiment (United States)
The 137th Infantry Regiment is a unit of the United States Army, with a distinguished history dating back to the early 20th century. Primarily associated with the Kansas Army National Guard, the regiment has seen service in both World War I and World War II, and more recently in the Global War on Terror.
Formation and Early History:
The 137th Infantry Regiment traces its lineage to the organization of Kansas National Guard units prior to World War I. It was officially constituted and drafted into federal service in August 1917. The regiment was assigned to the 35th Infantry Division and deployed to France as part of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF).
World War I:
During World War I, the 137th Infantry participated in several major campaigns, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. The regiment earned battle streamers for its contributions in these operations. The 35th Infantry Division and its constituent units, including the 137th, faced intense combat and suffered significant casualties.
Interwar Period:
Following World War I, the 137th Infantry Regiment reverted to its status as a unit within the Kansas National Guard. During the interwar period, the regiment focused on training and maintaining readiness for potential future conflicts.
World War II:
The 137th Infantry Regiment was again mobilized for federal service during World War II. Once more assigned to the 35th Infantry Division, the regiment participated in the European Theater of Operations. It saw action in Normandy after the D-Day landings, and subsequently fought through France, Belgium, and Germany. Notable battles included the Battle of the Bulge and the campaign to liberate France. The regiment again earned numerous battle streamers for its participation in these campaigns.
Post-World War II:
Following World War II, the 137th Infantry Regiment continued to serve as a component of the Kansas Army National Guard. Its role shifted over time, reflecting changes in national defense priorities.
Global War on Terror:
Elements of the 137th Infantry Regiment have been mobilized and deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, participating in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. These deployments involved a range of missions, including security operations, training of local forces, and nation-building efforts.
Current Status:
As a unit of the Kansas Army National Guard, the 137th Infantry Regiment continues to serve the state and the nation. Its soldiers train regularly to maintain their readiness for potential future deployments or state-level emergencies. The regiment’s structure and organization may have evolved over time to meet modern military requirements.
Honors:
The 137th Infantry Regiment has been awarded numerous battle streamers and decorations for its service in both World Wars and the Global War on Terror, reflecting its contributions to national defense. Individual soldiers of the 137th have also received numerous awards for valor and meritorious service.
Notable Unit Members:
[This section would require further research to identify notable individuals who served within the 137th Infantry Regiment and are of historical significance.]