3rd Armored Divison

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 3rd Armored Divison

The 3rd Armored Division, known as the "Spearhead" Division, was activated in 1941 and played a pivotal role in World War II, spearheading the Allied advance from Normandy through France and into Germany. The division was instrumental in the liberation of several key towns and was among the first U.S. units to enter Cologne in 1945. During the Cold War, the 3rd Armored was stationed in West Germany as part of NATO forces, serving as a frontline deterrent against Soviet aggression. The division participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, leading the ground assault into Iraq, before being inactivated in 1992 as part of post-Cold War drawdowns.

Unit Members

Robert Lacy

U.S. Army

3rd Armored DivisonView Profile

Petrocci Brown

U.S. Army

3rd Armored DivisonView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1974

U.S. Army • 1976

About 3rd Armored Divison

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Nickname – "Spearhead": The 3rd Armored Division earned the nickname "Spearhead" for its rapid and decisive advances during World War II, often leading Allied attacks through enemy lines. • World War II Origins: Activated in 1941, the division first saw action in Normandy, landing shortly after D-Day and pushing through France, Belgium, and into Germany. • Famous Commanders: General Maurice Rose, a notable commander of the division, was the highest-ranking U.S. Army officer killed by enemy fire in the European Theater. • Liberation of Concentration Camps: The 3rd Armored Division played a role in liberating the Dora-Mittelbau concentration camp in April 1945. • Battle of the Bulge: The division fought in the Ardennes during the Battle of the Bulge, helping to stem the German offensive. • Cold War Presence: After WWII, the division was stationed in West Germany for decades as part of NATO forces, symbolizing U.S. commitment to European defense. • Desert Storm: The 3rd Armored Division played a key role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, leading the ground assault into Iraq and Kuwait. • Largest Armored Division: At its peak during the Cold War, the 3rd Armored was one of the largest armored divisions in the U.S. Army, with over 360 tanks and 20,000 personnel. • Deactivation: Following the end of the Cold War, the division was officially deactivated in 1992, marking the end of over 50 years of distinguished service. • Legacy and Memorials: The division's legacy is preserved at the National Armor and Cavalry Museum in Fort Benning, Georgia, and through veteran reunions and memorials in the U.S. and Europe.