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From: dee@mitre.org (David E. Emery)
Newsgroups: sci.military
Subject: Re: ARMY UNIT DESIGNATIONS.......
Message-ID: <10239@cbnews.ATT.COM>
Date: 14 Oct 89 01:56:30 GMT
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From: dee@mitre.org (David E. Emery)
mes@tellab5.tellab5.CHI.IL.US (Martin Swinney) asks about Airborne
unit numbers.  

You have to distinguish between Parachute Infantry Regiments and units
on jump status.  The former is a title, the latter is a mission.  The
original Parachute Infantry Units (originally battalions) started with
number 501 (Of Geronimo fame).  They run at least through 509.  The
325 infantry was not Parachute, but Glider Infantry.  Hell, the
original members of 325 weren't even on jump status (since they landed
in gliders, supposedly "safe".)  

The Ranger Battalions are just that, Ranger Battalions.  During WWII
they were not part of 75th Infantry.  I'm not sure why the 75'th is
associated with the Rangers.  

The same is true of Special Forces.

The odd-ball is 187 Infantry.  I think this unit was originally
straight-leg infantry and later converted to Airborne.  They kept
their designation.  The 50x units were 'new' units during WW II.  Note
that the 82 division was a leg division when WW II started, and was so
when Omar Bradley commanded it.

>     remember   MILITARY / INTELEGENCE (sp) they don't fit together.
But that doesn't say anything about Military Intelligence

Overall, the U.S. combat arms regimental system has received
considerable attention over the years.  There may not be a direct
reason for unit numbers, but there IS a reason.  Every unit has its
lineage and honors, usually posted in its headquarters, and there are
books that explain the origin of the unit.  

>an old S.F.er just wanting to set the record straight....
Do you know the heritage of the Special Forces, related to the First
Special Service Force?  If not, someone missed something in your S.F.
training.  

			dave emery
			CPT, FA, NHARNG
			(associated with 3-325 Inf (Abn) as a cadet,
			 FO for A/1-501 Inf (Air Assault) on active duty)