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The Third United States Infantry Regiment is the oldest regiment still active in the United States Army and was organized as the First American Regiment in 1784.  After the War of 1812, it was consolidated with other regiments to form the Third U.S. Infantry, based on the seniority of the then regimental commanders.  Also, known as “The Old Guard,” they fought at the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863 as part of the Army of the Potomac’s Fifth Corps.

 

The brigade arrived in Gettysburg from the Baltimore Pike on the morning of July 2nd and took a position near the Twelfth Corps’ line, briefly camping near Power’s Hill.  The brigade was then ordered to support Brig. Gen. John C. Caldwell’s division as it advanced into the Wheatfield.

 

Around 5 p.m., they advanced across Plum Run near Little Round Top and supported the Second Brigade in its advance to the crest of the rocky wooded hill beyond and facing to the left.  They engaged the Confederates but returned under a deadly fire after the Confederates had gained a position in the Wheatfield in the rear of the Brigade and took position on east slope of Little Round Top.