The Irish, The Fighting 69th

This predominantly Irish infantry unit served as the 69th New York Infantry of the Union Army dubbed "the Fighting 69th" by opposing General Robert E. Lee. Known for their war cry "Faugh a Ballagh" that translates to "Clear The Way!" as well as their resilience and willingness to accept any difficult mission bestowed to them.

On July 24, 1918, Brigade General Douglas McArthur wanted to advance after breaking through Germany's line but was was informed that other regiments were "too fatigued" but the decimated Fighting 69th considered an order to advance as a compliment and McArthur concluded, "by God, it takes the Irish when you want a hard thing done."

"When anything absurd, forlorn, or desperate was to be attempted, the Irish Brigade was called upon,” as one war correspondent stated.

This unit gave birth to the term "the Fighting Irish" as we know it thanks to the likes of soldier and poet Joyce Kilmer in addition to Robert E. Lee's disgruntled quote after seeing the pesky brigade disgruntled quote after seeing the pesky brigade charge their flag once more toward his men after heavy action and warning those around him,

"Here comes that god damn green flag again!"

By the end of the Civil War the 69th lost more men than all but 6 regiments

The unit would reband by WW1.

WW1 Chaplain Father Duffy and soldier in the thick of battle stated of the non-Irish who fought along side the Irish within the brigade during

WW1, "they are Irish by adoption, Irish by association, and Irish by conviction."

McArthur would later consider Father Duffy a regimental commander which was unheard of for a Chaplain to receive such a role.

Mottos of this unit include: "Clear the Way,"

"Gentle When Stroked; Fierce When Provoked," and "Garryowen Glory" (roughly translating to "Marching Glory")