PFC Buford L Rohrbaugh
20th Inf 6th Div
May 5, 1925 - Aug 4, 1945
Buford L. Rohrbaugh grew up in Cimarron Kansas, CHS Class of 1944. He was killed in action during WWII. He was a member of the US Army, 20th Infantry Regiment of the 6th Infantry Division. In August of 1945 this unit was actively engaged in combat operations in the Philippines. At this time, the regiment was involved in intense jungle and mountain warfare, facing the last organized Japanese resistance in the Pacific theater. The 20th Infantry Regiment, along with other units of the 6th Division, played a crucial role in these operations, contributing significantly to the eventual defeat of Japanese forces in the region.
A VERY BRIEF HISTORY OF 20th Infantry Regiment, 6th Infantry Division.
The 20th Infantry Regiment, known as “Sykes’ Regulars,” has a distinguished history, particularly during its association with the 6th Infantry Division. Established in 1862, the regiment participated in numerous campaigns, including the Civil War and the Philippine–American War. In 1939, it was assigned to the reactivated 6th Division, marking the beginning of a significant partnership.
During World War II, as part of the 6th Infantry Division, the 20th Infantry Regiment engaged in intense jungle and mountain warfare. The regiment first saw combat in the Toem-Wakde area of Dutch New Guinea in June 1944, engaging in active patrolling and securing the Maffin Bay area by July 12. They fought in the Battle of Lone Tree Hill from June 21 to 30, 1944, and later made an assault landing at Sansapor on July 30, securing the Vogelkop Peninsula.
In January 1945, the regiment landed at Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, in the Philippines, and pursued Japanese forces into the Cabanatuan hills. They captured Muñoz on February 7 and continued operations in the region, contributing significantly to the liberation efforts in the Philippines.
After World War II, the 20th Infantry Regiment served on occupation duty in Korea until its inactivation in January 1949.
The regiment was reactivated during the Vietnam War and has continued to serve in various capacities, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in the 21st century.