Formed in 1851 by Irish immigrants, the Fighting Sixty-Ninth has served with distinction since the Civil War. The regiment’s flagstaff boasts 23 streamers (for each campaign) and 62 silver battle rings (for each battle), more than any other regiment in the United States Army at the close of World War II. Initially known as 69th New York State Militia (and seeing action under that name at the Battle of Bull Run), the regiment later "cadred" the 69th New York Volunteers. This is a complete illustrated history of the regiment"s service in the Irish Brigade and the Rainbow Division. Functioning as the 1st Regiment, Irish Brigade, 2nd Corps, Army of the Potomac throughout the Civil War, the regiment made history at Malvern Hill, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, Petersburg and Appomatox. Confederate generals Lee christened them the "Fighting Sixty-Ninth". According to legend, an exasperated General Jackson (who rarely cursed) recognized them as part of "that damn brigade". Functioning as the 165th Infantry, 42nd Division (Rainbow Division) throughout World War I, the regiment helped turn back the last German offensive, counterattacked at the Ourq river, spearheaded one of Pershing’s pincer at St. Mihiel, and helped break the Hindenburg Line in the Argonne Forest. Today, the regiment is known as 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry (Mechanized), New York Army National Guard.