About this Unit
The 9th Infantry Division, known as the "Old Reliables," was reactivated at Fort Lewis, Washington, in 1972 after distinguished service in World War II and Vietnam. During its time at Fort Lewis, the division served as a testbed for innovative light infantry and motorized tactics throughout the 1980s, contributing to the modernization of U.S. Army doctrine. The division participated in numerous training exercises and readiness operations, preparing soldiers for both conventional and rapid deployment missions. In 1991, the 9th Infantry Division was inactivated at Fort Lewis as part of post-Cold War force reductions, but its legacy of adaptability and excellence endures.
Historical Facts
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Activation and Early History: The 9th Infantry Division was first activated in 1918 during World War I, but it did not see combat before the war ended. It was reactivated in 1940 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in response to rising global tensions.
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World War II Service: The division played a significant role in World War II, participating in the North African campaign, the invasion of Sicily, and the D-Day landings at Utah Beach in Normandy, France.
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Battle of the Bulge: The 9th Infantry Division was heavily involved in the Battle of the Bulge, helping to repel the last major German offensive of the war in Europe.
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Vietnam War: Reactivated in 1966, the 9th Infantry Division was deployed to Vietnam, where it conducted riverine and counterinsurgency operations in the Mekong Delta, pioneering the Mobile Riverine Force concept.
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Relocation to Fort Lewis: After returning from Vietnam, the division was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, in 1972, where it remained until its inactivation in 1991.
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High Technology Test Bed: In the 1980s, the 9th Infantry Division was designated as the Army’s High Technology Test Bed, tasked with evaluating new equipment, tactics, and organizational concepts during the Cold War.
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Desert Warfare Training: The division was among the first to develop and implement new desert warfare training and tactics, anticipating the need for such skills in the Middle East.
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Notable Commanders: Among its famous commanders was Major General William M. Hoge, who led the division during World War II, and later became known for his role in the construction of the Alaska Highway.
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Legacy and Honors: The division earned 16 campaign streamers and numerous unit citations for its service in World War II and Vietnam, and many of its soldiers received individual valor awards.
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Inactivation and Legacy: The division was inactivated in 1991 as part of the post-Cold War drawdown. Its legacy is preserved at Fort Lewis (now part of Joint Base Lewis-McChord) through memorials and the continued use of its insignia and traditions in training.
