On March 9, 1847, Major General Winfield Scott executed the first major amphibious assault in American military history. The Army of Occupation shifted from its northern campaign of the previous year. The landing at Vera Cruz, Mexico allowed for a campaign that lead straight to the capital.
The 3rd Infantry Regiment, among the first ashore, helped to secure the city. This campaign saw many Regimental traditions born, becoming officially recognized a century later.
The Mexican Army had 3,300 soldiers in what was considered one of the most secure forts in North America. An army and government in disarray negated that advantage. No reinforcements arrived to defend against Winfield Scott’s army of 9,000.
After three weeks of maneuvers and counter-maneuvers, Vera Cruz agreed to surrender on March 29. The Mexican Army suffered 400 casualties, compared to the American’s 70 casualties.
Old Guard History 