3rd ID

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 3rd ID

The 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID), known as the "Rock of the Marne," was activated in November 1917 and earned its nickname during World War I for its heroic stand along the Marne River in France. The division played a significant role in World War II, participating in campaigns in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany, and was one of the few U.S. divisions to fight its way from North Africa all the way into Germany. During the Korean War, the 3rd ID participated in several major battles, including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and operations along the 38th Parallel. In the 21st century, the division has been heavily involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom, leading the charge during the 2003 invasion of Iraq and participating in subsequent operations. Today, the 3rd ID is based at Fort Stewart, Georgia, and continues to serve as a premier combat unit of the U.S. Army.

Unit Members

Thomas Hunt

U.S. Army

3rd IDView Profile

Israel Rosario

U.S. Army

3rd IDView Profile

Photos

COMBAT FLT OVER NAM

U.S. Air Force • 1964

MOODY AFB ROCKET TEAM AT TYNDALL AFB 1954

U.S. Air Force • 1952

U.S. Marine Corps • 1975

About 3rd ID

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Formation and Nickname: The 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID), known as the "Rock of the Marne," was activated in November 1917 during World War I. The division earned its nickname for its heroic stand on the Marne River in 1918. • World War I Heroism: During the Second Battle of the Marne, the division held its ground against a determined German offensive, famously refusing to retreat, leading to their nickname and the motto "No one passes." • Decorated Division: The 3rd ID is one of the most decorated U.S. Army divisions, with 56 Medal of Honor recipients—more than any other division in the Army. • World War II Landing: The division participated in the amphibious landings at Casablanca, Sicily, Salerno, Anzio, and Southern France, fighting across North Africa, Italy, France, and Germany. • Audie Murphy: America's most decorated combat soldier of World War II, Audie Murphy, served with the 3rd ID, earning the Medal of Honor and numerous other awards. • Korean War Service: The division fought in Korea, participating in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir and the defense of the Pusan Perimeter, among other key engagements. • Cold War and Beyond: The division was stationed in West Germany during the Cold War as part of NATO’s forward defense against the Soviet threat. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The 3rd ID led the ground assault into Iraq in 2003, famously being the first conventional U.S. unit to enter Baghdad. • Distinctive Patch: The division's shoulder sleeve insignia is a blue and white striped square, symbolizing loyalty, steadfastness, and the three major operations of World War I. • Historic Home Base: Fort Stewart, Georgia, has been the primary home of the 3rd ID since 1996, where it trains and maintains readiness for rapid deployment.