This original World War 2-era set of Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI) represents the storied 11th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army. Both insignia feature the classic shield design with bright blue enamel symbolic of the Infantry branch, a red cross on a silver chief representing Civil War service under the cross of St. George, and a central gold castle recalling the regiment’s pivotal role in the Spanish-American War. At the base of the shield are crossed arrows and a bolo knife—references to the regiment’s earlier frontier and Philippine campaigns. These devices are a visual chronicle of over a century of hard-earned battle honors. This set features pin-back construction with original fasteners. One of the locking mechanisms is partially broken, but both clasps function and close properly. The set displays well and would be suitable for uniform restoration, reenactment, or historical display. The 11th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the 5th Infantry Division during WW2, one of the Army’s elite regular divisions. After extensive stateside training, the 5th Division deployed to Iceland in 1942 to defend against possible German expansion in the North Atlantic. It later moved to England and took part in the build-up to the Allied invasion of Western Europe. The 11th Infantry came ashore in Normandy in early July 1944, shortly after D-Day, and immediately went into action as part of the breakout from the hedgerow country. The regiment’s combat record in France was intense and unrelenting. It fought its way through the Saint-Lô region, participated in the bloody drive across the Moselle River, and was instrumental in the capture of Metz—one of the most heavily fortified cities in Europe. In the bitter winter of 1944–45, the 11th Infantry played a key role during the Battle of the Bulge, helping to hold the southern shoulder of the German offensive and counterattacking through snow and entrenched resistance. In the spring of 1945, the regiment crossed the Rhine at Oppenheim and pushed deep into Nazi Germany, eventually linking up with Soviet forces near the Czech border. By the end of the war, the 11th Infantry Regiment had earned a reputation as one of the hardest-fighting line infantry units in the European Theater. It sustained heavy casualties but was instrumental in multiple key campaigns from Normandy to the Elbe. This DUI set represents a regiment steeped in American military history, whose WW2 service remains a testament to courage, endurance, and combat effectiveness in some of the war’s most grueling battles. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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