5th Armored Division

• Formation and Nickname: The 5th Armored Division, known as the "Victory Division," was activated on 10 October 1941 at Fort Knox, Kentucky. • World War II Service: The division saw extensive combat in the European Theater during World War II, landing in Normandy in July 1944. • Breakthrough at Avranches: The 5th Armored played a crucial role in the breakthrough at Avranches, helping open the path for the Allied advance across France. • First Allied Unit to Enter Luxembourg: On 9 September 1944, the 5th Armored Division became the first Allied unit to enter Luxembourg City. • Near the Siegfried Line: The division advanced to within 45 miles of Berlin, the closest any American unit came to the German capital during the war. • Liberation Efforts: The division liberated several towns in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg from Nazi occupation, earning gratitude from local populations. • Battle of the Bulge: Although not directly involved in the Battle of the Bulge, the 5th Armored helped block further German advances and protect Allied flanks. • Casualties and Honors: During WWII, the 5th Armored Division suffered over 1,200 killed in action but was highly decorated, including several Distinguished Unit Citations. • Post-War Occupation: After Germany’s surrender, the division served as part of the occupation force before being inactivated in October 1945. • Cold War Reactivation: The 5th Armored Division was reactivated during the Cold War (1950–1956) at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, before finally being inactivated.