102nd Infantry Division

• 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.