5 Facts 34th Infantry Division

Introduction to the 34th Infantry Division

The 34th Infantry Division is a division of the United States Army, and it has a rich history dating back to 1917. The division was formed from National Guard units from several states, including Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Over the years, the 34th Infantry Division has played a significant role in several military conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Iraq War. In this article, we will explore five interesting facts about the 34th Infantry Division.

Fact 1: Formation and World War I

The 34th Infantry Division was formed on August 25, 1917, at Camp Cody, New Mexico. The division was composed of National Guard units from several states, including the 133rd Infantry Regiment from Iowa, the 135th Infantry Regiment from Minnesota, and the 134th Infantry Regiment from Nebraska. During World War I, the 34th Infantry Division was deployed to France, where it participated in several battles, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Although the division did not see extensive combat, it played a crucial role in supporting other units and maintaining the lines of communication.

Fact 2: World War II and the North African Campaign

During World War II, the 34th Infantry Division was reactivated on February 10, 1941, at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana. The division was deployed to North Africa, where it participated in the Tunisian Campaign. The 34th Infantry Division was the first American division to engage the enemy in the North African Campaign, and it suffered significant casualties during the Battle of Kasserine Pass. Despite these challenges, the division continued to fight bravely, earning several commendations and awards for its service.

Fact 3: Italian Campaign and the Battle of Monte Cassino

After the North African Campaign, the 34th Infantry Division was deployed to Italy, where it participated in the Italian Campaign. The division played a crucial role in the Battle of Monte Cassino, which was one of the bloodiest battles of the Italian Campaign. The 34th Infantry Division suffered significant casualties during the battle, but it ultimately emerged victorious, helping to secure the Allied victory in Italy. The division’s bravery and sacrifice during the Italian Campaign earned it several awards and commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation.

Fact 4: Iraq War and Modernization

In 2006, the 34th Infantry Division was deployed to Iraq, where it participated in the Iraq War. The division was responsible for maintaining security and stability in several provinces, including Kirkuk and Sulaymaniyah. During its deployment, the 34th Infantry Division suffered several casualties, but it also made significant contributions to the war effort, helping to secure key infrastructure and maintain the lines of communication. After its deployment to Iraq, the 34th Infantry Division underwent significant modernization, including the introduction of new equipment and training programs.

Fact 5: Legacy and Honors

The 34th Infantry Division has a rich legacy of service and sacrifice, and it has earned several awards and commendations for its bravery and dedication. The division’s motto, “Attack, Attack, Attack!”, reflects its commitment to aggressive action and its willingness to take risks in the face of adversity. The 34th Infantry Division has also been recognized for its service with several awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Valorous Unit Award, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Today, the 34th Infantry Division continues to serve as a vital part of the United States Army, ready to deploy at a moment’s notice to defend American interests and protect freedom around the world.

👏 Note: The 34th Infantry Division has a long and distinguished history, and its legacy continues to inspire soldiers and civilians alike.

In summary, the 34th Infantry Division is a division of the United States Army with a rich history of service and sacrifice. From its formation in 1917 to its modernization in the 21st century, the division has played a significant role in several military conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Iraq War. The division’s bravery and dedication have earned it several awards and commendations, and its legacy continues to inspire soldiers and civilians alike.