2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment – “Patriots”
First to Fight! Always Ready.
🪖 Mission Overview
From September 2024 through June 2025, the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment (2-3 IN) deployed to the Republic of Korea as part of Korea Rotational Force 15 (KRF-15).
This nine-month mission strengthened the ROK-U.S. Alliance, reinforced regional stability, and upheld America’s commitment to peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Upon arrival, the Patriot Battalion immediately assumed key contingency missions and maintained a relentless focus on readiness, discipline, and professionalism.
Their work exemplified the unit’s motto — “First to Fight.”
🏅 Major Achievements
- Earned a “T” (Trained) rating on all six Mission Essential Tasks.
- Fired over 341,000 rounds during marksmanship and live-fire training.
- Conducted air assault operations with elite U.S. and ROK aviation units.
- Served over 165,000 meals, winning multiple 8th Army culinary competitions.
- 114 Patriots re-enlisted to continue their proud service.
- Over 70 Soldiers earned Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medals (MOVSM) with 1,400+ hours of community service.
📅 Key Training & Operations
October 2024 – Transfer of Authority
The Patriot Battalion and Ghost Brigade officially assumed command of KRF-15 from the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, marking the beginning of a historic rotation.
November 2024 – Building Readiness & Honoring Legacy
The Battalion launched collective training at Dagmar North, while supporting the Camp Humphreys community through static displays and outreach events.
December 2024 – Exploring Korea
Patriots immersed themselves in Korean culture, attending sporting events, exploring local history, and building enduring friendships with ROK allies.
January–February 2025 – Live Fire Excellence
- Platoon Live Fire Exercise (LFX): Joint operation with ROKA’s 81st Tank Battalion and U.S. Marines at Rodriguez Live Fire Complex.
- Company CALFEX: Integrated close-combat aviation from 3-2 GSAB and 5-17 ACS, achieving full-spectrum readiness.
March 2025 – Freedom Shield & Advanced Training
- Freedom Shield Command Post Exercise (CPX): Battalion staff replicated Stryker Brigade operations alongside ROKA’s 17th Infantry Division.
- Freedom Shield Company Training: Air assault and wet-gap crossing missions enhanced interoperability with Korean forces.
- Korea Combat Training Center: Force-on-force exercises sharpened the edge of the Legion Company and Highlander Recon Platoon.
🫡 Leadership & Recognition
March 2025 – Change of Command
A proud moment for the Patriots as LTC Kevin W. Boldt assumed command from LTC Ian B. MacGregor, ensuring continuity of leadership and excellence.
April 2025 – Expert Badge Testing
Patriots demonstrated precision and grit during Expert Infantry, Soldier, and Field Medical Badge testing at Camp Casey-Hovey.
May 2025 – Ghost Assault
As the main effort in Ghost Brigade’s large-scale air assault at Twin Bridges, 2-3 IN showcased synchronization and combat agility.
🌏 Service & Cultural Engagement
From September through May, Patriots embodied selfless service beyond the battlefield—volunteering in communities, attending cultural exchanges, and mentoring local youth.
Their motto, “Katchi Kapshida” (We Go Together), defined both their mission and spirit of friendship.
🛡️ Mission Completion & Return Home
In June 2025, the Battalion successfully completed the KRF-15 mission, returning safely home after fulfilling all objectives.
Working in support of the 2nd Infantry Division, the Patriots earned personal commendations from MG Lombardo (Warrior 6) for their exceptional performance.
🙏 Acknowledgements
Special thanks to:
- The Old Guard Association (TOGA)
- Foundation of the Old Guard, Inc. (FOGI)
Curated by Zachary Sumpson
Designed by 2-3 IN Unit Public Affairs Representatives (UPAR)
including 2LT Isabella McCooey, SPC Kenmardo Beckford, SPC Shin Buenaflor, SGT Christian Dinero, SPC Jessie Clark, SGT Artemio Veneracion, and CPT Richard Corney.
📘 Download the Full Report
For a complete look at photos, milestones, and first-hand stories from the Patriots abroad, download the official KRF-15 Year in Review PDF below.
The Old Guard Association (TOGA) would like to thank
Kevin Boldt, LTC, IN
Battalion Commander
2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA
For joining us at the 2025 TOGA reunion in Minnesota and for sharing highlights from 2-3 INF over the past year.
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