9th Div.

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 9th Div.

The 9th Division, often referred to as the "Old Reliables," has a distinguished history in the United States Army. Activated during World War II, it participated in major campaigns including the North African, Sicilian, and Normandy invasions, earning a reputation for effectiveness and resilience. The division later served with distinction in the Vietnam War, engaging in counterinsurgency and riverine operations in the Mekong Delta. After periods of deactivation and reactivation, the 9th Division's legacy continues to be honored within the U.S. Army's organizational heritage.

Unit Members

Gerald Smith

U.S. Army

9th Div.View Profile

Charles Wehner

U.S. Army

9th Div.View Profile

Photos

Boot Camp

Company C 1st Bn. 38th Inf. Regt. • U.S. Army • 1989

1980

101st airborne division • U.S. Army

U.S. Army

New uniform for wedding

82nd Airborne • U.S. Army • 2018

About 9th Div.

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War I: The 9th Infantry Division ("Old Reliables") was activated in 1918, but World War I ended before it saw combat. • World War II Combat: The division landed in North Africa in 1942, fought in Tunisia, Sicily, Normandy, and pushed into Germany, earning a reputation for rapid, aggressive action. • Medal of Honor Recipients: Soldiers of the 9th Division earned several Medals of Honor, including Technical Sergeant Charles E. Kelly in Italy and Private First Class Charles N. DeGlopper in France. • Vietnam War Service: The 9th Division was one of the first U.S. divisions sent to Vietnam (1966), specializing in riverine and unconventional warfare in the Mekong Delta. • Mobile Riverine Force: The 9th Division pioneered the use of the "Brown Water Navy," conducting joint Army-Navy operations with armored boats and floating barracks. • Post-Vietnam Innovations: In the 1980s, the 9th Division tested "High Technology Light Divisions" concepts—precursors to today's Stryker Brigades. • Symbolism: The division's patch features a red, white, and blue octofoil, representing the number 9 and the unit’s origins in the 9th Infantry Regiment. • Famous Commanders: Notable leaders include Major General Manton S. Eddy (WWII) and General William Westmoreland (briefly, before Vietnam). • Deactivation and Legacy: The division was inactivated in 1991, but its lineage and honors continue in subordinate units and through Army tradition. • In Popular Culture: The 9th Division is depicted in films like "Hamburger Hill" and referenced in war literature due to its extensive WWII and Vietnam service.