636TH TANK DESTROYER BATTALION

• Formation and Activation: The 636th Tank Destroyer Battalion was activated on 15 December 1941 at Camp Barkeley, Texas, shortly after the United States entered World War II. • Early Equipment: Initially, the battalion was equipped with the M10 tank destroyer, a vehicle armed with a powerful 3-inch gun and designed for speed and mobility. • North Africa Service: The battalion first saw combat action during the North African Campaign, landing in Algeria in 1943 as part of Operation Torch. • Italian Campaign: The 636th played a significant role throughout the Italian Campaign, supporting the Allied advance up the Italian peninsula, including the battles at Salerno, Anzio, and Cassino. • Attached to the 36th Infantry Division: The battalion was frequently attached to the 36th Infantry Division ("Texas Division"), developing a close working relationship during combat. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 636th received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions in the bitter fighting at Monte Cassino, where it provided critical fire support against German positions. • Southern France Landings: The unit participated in Operation Dragoon, the Allied invasion of Southern France in August 1944, landing at St. Tropez. • River Crossings: The battalion was instrumental in numerous river crossings, such as the crossing of the Rhône and the rapid advance through the Vosges Mountains. • Combat Achievements: Throughout World War II, the 636th destroyed or disabled more than 50 enemy tanks, as well as numerous armored vehicles and artillery pieces. • Postwar Recognition: After the war, the battalion was inactivated in October 1945, but its veterans have continued to be honored in reunions and commemorations for their outstanding service in multiple theaters of World War II.