The Bushmasters
A closer look at the famous 158th Infantry Regiment, known as the Bushmasters, who became renowned for their service during World War II.
In Panama, a regiment of soldiers trained in jungle warfare and became famous for their jungle-fighting skills. The regiment took the name of the Bushmasters after the deadly bushmaster snake. This emblem became the distinguishing shoulder patch of the 158th Regimental Combat Team. The name 'Bushmasters' became well-known via the national press. General MacArthur personally selected and requested that the Bushmasters be sent to his command in the Southwest Pacific Theater.
The 'Bushmasters' were General Douglas Mac Arthur’s point (lead) element in many actions. After being relieved by divisions in various campaigns in which they distinguished themselves across the Pacific, the 158th Infantry was selected to spearhead the final invasion of Japan.
The Bushmasters were under orders to proceed two days ahead of America's crushing D-Day to silence Japanese air warning stations south of Kyushu. The timely capitulation of Japan saved the 158th Infantry from what many believed would have been a certain suicide mission.
In October 1945, the 158th Infantry landed in Yokohama, Japan, and members were then shipped home as the 158th was deactivated at Utsunomiya, Japan. On January 17, 1946, General MacArthur praised the Bushmasters with his famous and oft-quoted accolade, “No greater fighting combat team has ever deployed for battle”.
