About this Unit
The 79th Infantry Division, known as the "Cross of Lorraine" division, was activated during World War I and served with distinction in France, participating in key offensives such as the Meuse-Argonne. Reactivated for World War II, the division landed in Normandy shortly after D-Day in June 1944 and played a crucial role in the liberation of Cherbourg. It continued its advance across France, fighting in the Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns. The 79th Infantry Division was deactivated after the war but its legacy endures as a symbol of bravery and effective combat performance.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 79th Infantry Division, known as the "Cross of Lorraine" Division, was activated in August 1917 during World War I at Camp Meade, Maryland.
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Symbolism: The division’s insignia, the Cross of Lorraine, was chosen to honor French-American cooperation and symbolize the region of Lorraine, France, where the division first saw combat.
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First Combat Action: The division first entered combat in September 1918 during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, one of the largest operations of the American Expeditionary Forces in WWI.
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Casualties in WWI: During World War I, the 79th Infantry Division suffered over 6,800 casualties, reflecting the ferocity of the fighting in the Meuse-Argonne campaign.
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World War II Reactivation: The division was reactivated in June 1942 for service in World War II and trained at Camp Pickett, Virginia.
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D-Day Operations: The 79th Infantry Division landed at Utah Beach in Normandy on June 12, 1944, just six days after D-Day, and participated in the liberation of France.
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Battle of Cherbourg: The division played a crucial role in the capture of Cherbourg, a major port, from German forces, which was essential for Allied logistics in Normandy.
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Rhine Crossing: The division was among the first U.S. units to cross the Rhine River into Germany in March 1945, marking a significant milestone toward the end of the war in Europe.
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Distinguished Unit: The 79th Infantry Division earned four campaign streamers in WWII and was awarded the French Croix de Guerre for its bravery and service in liberating France.
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Postwar Service: After WWII, the division was inactivated in December 1945 but later served as a Reserve unit, continuing its legacy in training and readiness into the modern era.
