79th Infantry

• Origins in World War I: The 79th Infantry Division, known as the "Cross of Lorraine" Division, was activated in August 1917 during World War I at Camp Meade, Maryland. • Symbolism: The division’s insignia, the Cross of Lorraine, was chosen to honor French-American cooperation and symbolize the region of Lorraine, France, where the division first saw combat. • First Combat Action: The division first entered combat in September 1918 during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, one of the largest operations of the American Expeditionary Forces in WWI. • Casualties in WWI: During World War I, the 79th Infantry Division suffered over 6,800 casualties, reflecting the ferocity of the fighting in the Meuse-Argonne campaign. • World War II Reactivation: The division was reactivated in June 1942 for service in World War II and trained at Camp Pickett, Virginia. • D-Day Operations: The 79th Infantry Division landed at Utah Beach in Normandy on June 12, 1944, just six days after D-Day, and participated in the liberation of France. • Battle of Cherbourg: The division played a crucial role in the capture of Cherbourg, a major port, from German forces, which was essential for Allied logistics in Normandy. • Rhine Crossing: The division was among the first U.S. units to cross the Rhine River into Germany in March 1945, marking a significant milestone toward the end of the war in Europe. • Distinguished Unit: The 79th Infantry Division earned four campaign streamers in WWII and was awarded the French Croix de Guerre for its bravery and service in liberating France. • Postwar Service: After WWII, the division was inactivated in December 1945 but later served as a Reserve unit, continuing its legacy in training and readiness into the modern era.