About this Unit
The 77th Infantry Division, known as the "Statue of Liberty Division," was first organized in August 1917 at Camp Upton, New York, drawing largely from draftees in the New York City area. During World War I, the division fought in major campaigns such as the Meuse-Argonne Offensive and is famed for the "Lost Battalion" incident. Reactivated for World War II, the 77th served in the Pacific Theater, participating notably in the battles of Guam, Leyte, and Okinawa. The division was inactivated in 1946 after the war, leaving a legacy of courage and distinguished service in two world wars.
Historical Facts
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The 77th Infantry Division "Statue of Liberty Division": The 77th Infantry Division was nicknamed the "Statue of Liberty Division" because its shoulder patch featured the Statue of Liberty’s torch, symbolizing freedom and the division's New York roots.
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Formed in World War I: The division was first organized in August 1917 at Camp Upton, New York, making it one of the original National Army divisions created for World War I.
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“The Lost Battalion”: During the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in 1918, elements of the 77th became famous as the “Lost Battalion,” holding out against German forces for several days while surrounded, suffering heavy casualties but refusing to surrender.
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First All-Draftee Division: The 77th was notable for being the first U.S. Army division composed entirely of draftees rather than regular army soldiers or National Guard members.
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World War II Campaigns: The 77th Infantry Division saw action in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in the liberation of Guam, Leyte, Ryukyu Islands, and the battle for Okinawa.
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Okinawa and the Medal of Honor: During the Battle of Okinawa, Pfc. Desmond Doss, a medic with the 77th, became the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor for saving 75 men without carrying a weapon.
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Heavy Losses: The 77th suffered significant casualties during both world wars, reflecting the intensity of the battles in which it was engaged, especially in jungle and island fighting.
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Post-War Service: After World War II, the division was deactivated, then reactivated several times as a reserve unit, and eventually became the 77th Sustainment Brigade, adapting to modern logistics roles.
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Statue of Liberty Torch: The division’s shoulder sleeve insignia featuring the torch was chosen to honor the many men from New York City and to symbolize liberty and enlightenment.
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Veteran Legacy: The division's veterans have played a significant role in preserving the history and memory of the unit, with reunions, memorials, and books dedicated to its storied past.
