SVC CO 351st Inf trust APO 209

• Unit Identity: "SVC CO 351st Inf" refers to the Service Company, 351st Infantry Regiment, a key logistical and support component of the regiment. • World War II Service: The 351st Infantry Regiment was part of the 88th Infantry Division, known as the "Blue Devils," which saw extensive combat in the Italian Campaign during WWII. • APO 209: Army Post Office (APO) 209 was the postal designation for units attached to the US Fifth Army in Italy, which included the 351st Infantry Regiment during WWII. • Italian Campaign: The 351st Infantry landed in North Africa in late 1943 and quickly moved to Italy, participating in the hard-fought battles for Monte Cassino, the Gustav Line, and the push to Rome. • Service Company Role: The SVC CO was responsible for vital logistics: supply distribution, maintenance, transport, and administrative support, ensuring combat companies could operate effectively. • Post-War Role: After WWII, the 351st Infantry was tasked with occupation duties in northern Italy, helping to maintain order and oversee the transition to peace. • Distinctive Insignia: The 351st’s insignia featured a blue shield with a white border and three white stars, symbolizing its infantry heritage and regimental number. • Blue Devils Nickname: The 88th Division earned the nickname "Blue Devils" from German troops, who respected their tenacity; the 351st was a core part of this reputation. • Decorations: The 351st Infantry Regiment received numerous citations, including the French Croix de Guerre and the Italian Presidential Unit Citation, for their valor in combat. • POW Rescue Stories: Members of the SVC CO aided in the recovery and care of Allied prisoners of war during the Italian campaign, providing them with supplies and safe passage to rear areas.