About this Unit
The 28th Infantry Division, also known as the "Keystone Division," is a unit of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and is one of the oldest divisions in the United States Army. It was originally formed in 1879 and saw significant action during both World War I and World War II, notably participating in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive and the Battle of Hürtgen Forest. The division has also provided support during domestic emergencies and has been mobilized for service in peacekeeping operations and the Global War on Terrorism, including deployments to Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Throughout its distinguished history, the 28th Infantry Division has maintained its reputation for resilience and service both at home and abroad.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Division in the US Army: The 28th Infantry Division, also known as the "Keystone Division," is the oldest continuously serving division in the United States Army, tracing its roots back to 1879 in the Pennsylvania National Guard.
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Keystone Patch: The division's distinctive red keystone shoulder patch represents the state of Pennsylvania, known as the "Keystone State."
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World War I Valor: During World War I, the 28th Infantry Division fought in several major campaigns in France, including the Second Battle of the Marne and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, earning the nickname "The Bloody Bucket" from the Germans due to their fierce fighting.
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World War II Action: The division landed in Normandy after D-Day and played a crucial role in the liberation of Paris, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge.
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Battle of Hürtgen Forest: In late 1944, the 28th suffered heavy casualties in the Hürtgen Forest, a brutal and costly battle often described as one of the longest on German soil during WWII.
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Battle of the Bulge: The division was among the first US units to face the German offensive in the Ardennes in December 1944 and held key positions, slowing the German advance.
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Presidential Unit Citation: The 28th Infantry Division has been awarded numerous decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism in action.
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Domestic Service: The division has frequently been called upon for domestic missions, including disaster relief and riot control, such as during the Three Mile Island incident and Hurricane Agnes.
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Modern Deployments: Members of the 28th have served in peacekeeping and combat operations in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan in the 21st century.
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Notable Members: Famous individuals who served in the 28th include Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant Francis S. Currey and baseball legend Grover Cleveland Alexander.
