World War I 
Division History

 

 

30th Infantry Division

The 30th Infantry Division, known as "Old Hickory" Division was activated in October 1917. It was often referred to as "Workhorse of the Western Front." The Division served overseas with the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I, distinguishing itself in the Somme Offensive by breaking through the notorious Hindenberg Line, and in the Battles of Le Selle, Ypres, St. Mihiel, and in the Meuse-Argonne. After World War I, the 30th was deactivated from Federal service and reverted to its National Guard role in its respective states.

 

32nd Infantry Division

The 32nd Infantry Division, known as "Red Arrow" Division was organized under War Department orders of 18 July 1917. The Division served on the front line during World War I from 18 May 1918 until the end of the War on 11 November 1918. It was the first American Division to pierce the famed Hindenburg Line, fought in 4 major offensives and earned the name "Les Terribles" from the French. The Division served with the Army of Occupation in Germany until 18 April 1919 and then began its return to the United States where if was demobilized in May 1919.

 

42nd Infantry Division

The 42nd Infantry Division, known as "Rainbow" Division was organized in September 1917 from National Guards units from 26 states and  District of Columbia. Colonel Douglas MacArthur, who had been instrumental in the forming of the Division, said shortly after its completion. "The 42nd Division stretches like a Rainbow from one end of America to the other." The Division arrived in France during November 1917, participating in six major campaigns. The 42nd Division's service officially ended in May 1919.

 

81st Infantry Division

The 81st Infantry Division, known as "Wildcats" Division was organized on August 24, 1917. The Division distinguished themselves in the fighting in France, participating in the occupation of the St. Die sector and the offense at Meuse-Argonne. The 81st Division received the personal commendation of General Pershing. Following World War I. The "Wildcat" Division was deactivated on June 11, 1919.

Source: Division History information obtained from The Army Historical Foundation and other Army History Internet sources.

 

BACK

 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________

  Home  |  Civil War  |  World War I  |  World War II  |  Korea  |  Vietnam  |  Other
  Overseas Burials  | Casualties  |  Links  |  Guestbook

Copyright © 2001 -  2008  |  Designed and maintained by Ken Brown  |  All Rights Reserved     
  Created:  May 23, 2001  |  Terms of Service  |  Contact  | Last updated: August 24,2008