3rd Infantry Division’s Race to Baghdad: Beating the Marines to the Capital

April 2003: The U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division made history as the first conventional unit to capture Baghdad during the Iraq War—racing north from Kuwait and beating the Marines to the capital. This stunning drive demonstrated modern armored warfare’s lethal efficiency.

⚔️ Thunder Runs into Baghdad

Led by the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, the “Thunder Runs” were armored spearhead operations that punched into the heart of Baghdad. On April 5th and again on April 7th, M1 Abrams tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles broke through Iraqi Republican Guard defenses and stormed deep into the city.

📍 Key Battles Along the Route

• As Samawah – A fierce engagement with Fedayeen irregulars and Saddam loyalists.
• Karbala Gap – Cleared in coordination with the 101st Airborne Division to open the road to Baghdad.
• Baghdad International Airport – Captured on April 4th, 2003 by 3ID forces in a decisive blow.

🎖️ By the Numbers

• ⚔️ Over 600 miles covered in 21 days
• 🚛 Over 20,000 troops deployed from 3ID
• 🏅 2 Medals of Honor awarded (posthumously) during the campaign

“The Rock of the Marne became the Spearhead of Baghdad.”

The division’s rapid assault not only beat the Marines into the city but captured Saddam Hussein’s seat of power—cementing the 3rd Infantry Division’s legendary status.