About this Unit
The 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized), known as the "Red Diamond" Division, was first activated in 1917 and served with distinction in World War I, participating in major campaigns in France. Reactivated during World War II, the division played a crucial role in the Normandy breakout, the liberation of France, and the crossing of the Rhine into Germany. During the Vietnam War, the 5th Infantry Division (Mech) was deployed to South Vietnam from 1968 to 1971, conducting operations primarily in the Quảng Trị Province. Throughout its history, the division was renowned for its adaptability, fighting both as a conventional infantry and later as a mechanized force, before its inactivation in 1992.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War I: The 5th Infantry Division, known as the "Red Diamond" Division, was activated in December 1917 and saw its first combat in France during World War I, participating in the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne offensives.
•
Red Diamond Insignia: The division’s distinctive insignia, a red diamond, earned them the nickname "Red Diamond Division" or "Red Devils" from both American and German forces.
•
World War II Actions: The 5th Infantry Division was one of the first U.S. divisions to land in Normandy after D-Day, arriving on Utah Beach on July 9, 1944, and played a critical role in the liberation of France.
•
Crossing the Seine: The division was the first Allied unit to cross the Seine River at Port-à-l’Anglais on August 23, 1944, a pivotal moment in the drive to liberate Paris.
•
Battle of the Bulge: The 5th Infantry Division fought in the Battle of the Bulge, helping to hold the southern shoulder of the German offensive and later advancing into Germany itself.
•
Vietnam War Service: Reactivated as a mechanized division, the 5th Infantry Division (Mech) deployed elements to Vietnam, where it operated primarily in the Quảng Trị Province and along the DMZ from 1968 to 1971.
•
Mechanized Transformation: In 1957, the division was reorganized as the 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized), becoming one of the first divisions equipped with armored personnel carriers and modern mechanized doctrine.
•
Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the division was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, and was designated as a rapid deployment force, prepared to respond to crises around the world.
•
Panama Invasion: The division provided key support during Operation Just Cause in Panama in 1989, deploying troops and equipment to assist in the removal of Manuel Noriega.
•
Deactivation and Legacy: The 5th Infantry Division was inactivated in 1992 after the end of the Cold War. Its lineage and honors are preserved in the U.S. Army’s regimental system, and former members maintain active veteran associations.
