97 inf div

• Activation and Early History: The 97th Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Trident Division," was activated on 25 February 1943 at Camp Swift, Texas, during World War II. • Patches and Insignia: The division's shoulder patch features a blue trident, symbolizing preparedness for operations on land, sea, and air. • Late Deployment to Europe: The 97th was one of the last U.S. infantry divisions sent to the European Theater of Operations, arriving in March 1945. • Combat Entry in Germany: The division entered combat on 2 April 1945, crossing the Rhine River and fighting in the Ruhr Pocket, helping to encircle and capture large numbers of German troops. • Liberation of Concentration Camp: Elements of the 97th liberated the Flossenbürg concentration camp, freeing thousands of prisoners in April 1945. • Unique Service in Czechoslovakia: The division advanced into Czechoslovakia, liberating the city of Cheb and becoming one of the first Allied units to reach Czechoslovak territory. • Planned Invasion of Japan: After V-E Day, the 97th was selected for redeployment to the Pacific for the planned invasion of Japan (Operation Downfall), but the war ended before they saw combat in Asia. • Occupation Duty in Japan: The division landed at Yokohama, Japan, on 23 September 1945, and performed occupation duties until returning home in early 1946. • Decorations and Honors: The 97th Infantry Division earned campaign streamers for Central Europe and Rhineland campaigns and received numerous individual awards for valor. • Postwar Legacy: The division was inactivated in early 1946 and briefly reactivated as a training division in the Army Reserve, preserving its historic legacy.