102nd Infantry Division

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 102nd Infantry Division

The 102nd Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Ozark Division," was activated in September 1942 during World War II. After extensive training in the United States, the division was deployed to Europe in September 1944, joining the fight in France and later advancing into Germany. The 102nd played a significant role in the Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns, notably liberating concentration camps and capturing key German cities. After the war, the division was inactivated in 1946 and later re-designated as part of the Army Reserve, continuing its legacy of service.

Unit Members

steven vetare

U.S. Army

102nd Infantry DivisionView Profile

Lew Stevens

U.S. Army

102nd Infantry DivisionView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1974

U.S. Army • 1976

About 102nd Infantry Division

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Nickname "Ozark Division": The 102nd Infantry Division is known as the "Ozark Division," named after the Ozark Mountains, symbolizing the region where many of its original members were from. • World War II Activation: The division was activated on September 15, 1942, at Camp Maxey, Texas, and trained extensively before deployment. • First Combat in Europe: The 102nd entered combat in late October 1944, relieving the 29th Infantry Division along the Roer River in Germany. • Operation Grenade: The division played a key role in Operation Grenade, crossing the Roer River in February 1945 and advancing into Germany. • Liberation of Concentration Camps: Soldiers from the 102nd helped liberate several subcamps of the Neuengamme concentration camp system, exposing Nazi atrocities. • Capturing Stalag VI-G: The division captured the large German POW camp Stalag VI-G in April 1945, freeing thousands of Allied prisoners. • Decorations and Awards: The 102nd Infantry Division earned two Distinguished Unit Citations and several individual awards for extraordinary heroism during World War II. • Post-War Inactivation: After the war, the division was inactivated in 1946, but was later reactivated as part of the Army Reserve. • Famous Members: Notable members include Medal of Honor recipient Technician 5th Grade Forrest E. Peden, recognized for his bravery near Biesheim, France. • Division Patch: The division's shoulder patch features a golden "OZARK" on a blue background, symbolizing unity and geographic heritage.