The 2-503rd Infantry Regiment was one of the original parachute infantry units created by the U.S. On 16 Feb. 1945 the 503rd conducted Operation Topside, the only Combat Airborne Assault in the Pacific Theater during World War II, onto the island fortress of Corregidor, Philippines. The nickname of Corregidor was "The Rock". This inconceivable victory is from which the unit takes it's nickname and
it's motto. The 2-503rd has also served in several other campaigns including Operation Junction City during the Vietnam War and conducted an additional Combat Airborne Assault as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom during the Global War on Terrorism. The 2-503rd is currently a part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade stationed in Vicenza, Italy.