New organization to honor North Dakota’s WWII legacy
NORTH DAKOTA — A new organization dedicated to preserving one of North Dakota’s most storied military legacies has officially launched. The 164th Infantry Remembrance Association has been formed to honor, preserve, and share the history of the 164th Infantry Regiment—the first U.S. Army unit to take offensive action in World War II, reinforce the U.S. Marines on Guadalcanal, and one of the most distinguished National Guard regiments of the war.
The 164th Infantry Remembrance Association is a separate and independent organization from the 164th Infantry Association, a fraternal organization serving veterans and families of the Regiment across all periods of service and known for its publications and regimental history.
Rooted in its founding philosophy, the 164th Infantry Remembrance Association is committed to preserving, recreating, and educating the public about the experiences of the 164th Infantry Regiment during World War II. Its bylaws emphasize authenticity, historical accuracy, and a non-partisan approach to interpretation, ensuring that all programming honors the real stories of the soldiers and civilians of the 1940s. Members conduct in-depth research using period accounts, original and reproduction uniforms/equipment, written histories, and historic sites to accurately recreate and interpret the era.
“Our mission is simple—to remember, to preserve, and to teach,” said Brandon Delvo, outreach coordinator of the Remembrance Association. “The 164th Infantry Regiment represents the courage and dedication of North Dakota’s Greatest Generation. Through accurate interpretation and public education, we want to ensure their service is understood, respected, and never forgotten.”
The Association also proudly embraces the regiment’s historic motto, “Je Suis Prêt” — “I Am Ready.”
“This motto reflects the character of the men who served and our commitment today,” Delvo added. “We are ready to educate the public, ready to preserve their history, and ready to honor their sacrifices.”
The Association’s mission, vision, and values—outlined in its governing documents—guide its work:
• Mission: To preserve, research, recreate, and educate the public about the history of the 164th Infantry Regiment through accurate interpretation, public programs, and community partnerships.
• Vision: To help future generations gain a meaningful understanding of the hardships and sacrifices endured by the men and women of the 1940s by bringing history to life.
• Core Values: Authenticity, integrity, respect, education, and professionalism—supported by strict standards for member conduct, historical accuracy, and safety.
“When you see the uniforms, the equipment, the drills, and hear the words of the men who were there, it creates a powerful connection,” said Casey Beck, President of the 164th Infantry Remembrance Association. “Our goal is to honor these soldiers in a way that is truthful, respectful, and deeply human.”
164th Infantry Regiment – Distinctive Unit Insignia
The Distinctive Unit Insignia of the 164th Infantry Regiment consists of a light blue infantry shield bearing a red Spanish castle, fimbriated gold, set between three gold six-pointed stars and rising above a gold sun issuing from base. A scroll below the shield bears the motto “Je Suis Prêt” French, meaning “I Am Ready”.
The shield’s blue denotes infantry service. The Spanish castle commemorates service in the Spanish-American War, while the three stars reference service in the Philippine Insurrection. The rising sun signifies World War service with the 41st Division. The motto reflects the Regiment’s longstanding readiness and resolve.
The design was approved by the War Department in 1933 and has been historically associated with the North Dakota National Guard’s 164th Infantry Regiment.
A registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the 164th Infantry Remembrance Association will conduct living history programs, educational presentations, school visits, commemorative events, community outreach, and historical preservation efforts. Funding comes from membership dues, public donations, grants, and program partnerships, all used exclusively to advance the Association’s mission.
The Association welcomes new members—military or civilian, living historian or researcher, student or supporter—who share an interest in preserving North Dakota’s World War II history.
