New Group Launches To Preserve Stories Of North Dakota Soldiers

A new nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving one of North Dakota’s most distinguished 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, a North Dakota National Guard unit that became the first U.S. Army regiment to take offensive action during World War II and later reinforced U.S. Marines during the Guadalcanal campaign.

The organization is separate and independent from the 164th Infantry Association, a longstanding fraternal group serving veterans and families of the regiment across all periods of service. The Remembrance Association focuses specifically on World War II-era history through research, public education, and living history interpretation.

“Our mission is simple — to remember, to preserve, and to teach,” said Brandon Delvo, outreach coordinator for the 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’s bylaws emphasize authenticity, historical accuracy, professionalism, and a nonpartisan approach. Members conduct detailed research using period accounts, original equipment, written histories, and historic sites to accurately recreate the experiences of soldiers and civilians of the 1940s.

The group also embraces the regiment’s historic motto, “Je Suis Prêt,” meaning “I Am Ready.”

“This motto reflects the character of the men who served and our commitment today,” Delvo said. “We are ready to educate the public, ready to preserve their history, and ready to honor their sacrifices.”

Casey Beck, president of the Association, said accurate interpretation helps create a meaningful connection to the past.

“When you see the uniforms, the equipment, the drills, and hear the words of the men who were there, it creates a powerful connection,” Beck said. “Our goal is to honor these soldiers in a way that is truthful, respectful, and deeply human.”

The 164th Infantry Remembrance Association is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and plans to conduct living history programs, educational presentations, school visits, commemorative events, and community outreach. Funding comes from membership dues, donations, grants, and partnerships, all used to support the organization’s mission.

Membership is open to military and civilian participants, including researchers, students, living historians, and supporters interested in preserving North Dakota’s World War II history.

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For more information, the Association can be reached at (406) 697-2235 or on the 164Remembrance Facebook page.