About this Unit
The 21st General Hospital, USAR, traces its origins to World War II when it was activated at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri in 1942. The unit deployed to North Africa and later to Italy, providing critical medical support to Allied forces during major campaigns such as the North African and Italian Campaigns. Renowned for its innovative medical care and dedication, the hospital treated thousands of wounded soldiers under challenging conditions. After the war, the 21st General Hospital became part of the United States Army Reserve, continuing its legacy of excellence in military medicine and readiness.
Historical Facts
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World War II Activation: The 21st General Hospital was activated at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, on June 13, 1942, drawing its core medical staff from the university’s faculty and alumni.
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Overseas Deployment: In 1943, the unit shipped out to North Africa, serving first in Algiers, and later supported Allied campaigns in Italy and France as part of the Mediterranean Theater of Operations.
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Casablanca Assignment: The hospital operated in Casablanca, Morocco, providing medical care to thousands of Allied soldiers and prisoners of war during the height of the North African campaign.
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Innovative Surgery: Surgeons from the 21st General Hospital were known for pioneering techniques in trauma and reconstructive surgery, especially for maxillofacial injuries caused by modern warfare.
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Normandy Support: After D-Day, the hospital moved to France and helped treat casualties from the Normandy landings and subsequent European campaigns, often working in challenging field conditions.
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Record Patient Loads: The 21st General Hospital often cared for over 2,000 patients at a time, making it one of the largest and busiest American medical units in the European Theater.
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Academic Contributions: Medical staff documented their experiences and research, later leading to advances in battlefield medicine and civilian medical practices after the war.
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Distinguished Personnel: The unit included several notable physicians and nurses, including Dr. Vilray Blair, a pioneer in plastic surgery, and Dr. Evarts A. Graham, who performed the world’s first successful pneumonectomy.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond treating soldiers, the 21st General Hospital provided aid to civilians and displaced persons, exemplifying the humanitarian side of military medicine.
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Legacy and Honors: The 21st General Hospital’s history has been preserved in archives at Washington University, and its members received numerous commendations for their service, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
