Army
‘The Fighting 69th’ to lead world’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City
Stars and Stripes
March 16, 2026
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Led by a piper, soldiers of the New York Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, known as the “Fighting 69th” stride along up Fifth Avenue during the 2025 New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade. (Courtesy Photo/U.S. Army)
About 800 soldiers from the New York Army National Guard will lead New York City’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Tuesday.
Also known as “The Fighting 69th,” the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment has traditionally led the parade because of its Irish-American roots, and this year marks their 175th appearance, according to a service news release.
“New York City’s Fighting 69th is always honored to lead the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” said Lt. Col. Andrew Prior, the battalion’s commander.
The soldiers will be joined by the 42nd Infantry Division Band and senior New York National Guard leaders and will showcase the long-standing traditions of the regiment and the parade.
Some of these traditions include:
Boxwood sprig: Soldiers place a sprig of boxwood on their uniforms, a tradition dating to the Battle of Fredericksburg on Dec. 13, 1862, when members of the Irish Brigade wore boxwood in their hat bands to honor their Irish heritage.
Fighting stick: Officers carry a fighting stick made of blackthorn wood imported from Ireland, symbolizing the mark of an Irish leader and gentleman.
Irish Wolfhounds: Soldiers are accompanied in the parade by two Irish Wolfhounds, the official mascot of the 69th Infantry.
Kilmer Crucifix: The battalion commander carries the “Kilmer Crucifix,” once worn by poet Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action while serving with the 69th Infantry Regiment in World War I.
Special Mass: Before the parade, the regiment attends a mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral to honor its fallen members and celebrate its Irish heritage.
‘Always Ready’: Just before the parade begins, the head of the parade committee asks the commander if the 69th is ready. The response: “The 69th is always ready!”
Unit day ceremonies: St. Patrick’s Day is also an opportunity to recognize the soldiers for their accomplishments. After the parade, the regiment will hold its recognition ceremony at the Park Avenue Armory.