About this Unit
V Corps, also known as the Fifth Corps, is a storied formation of the United States Army first activated during World War I in 1918. It played a pivotal role in both World Wars, notably participating in the D-Day landings and the liberation of Europe during World War II. Throughout the Cold War, V Corps was headquartered in Germany, serving as a key element of NATO’s forward defense against the Soviet Union. After a period of inactivation, V Corps was reactivated in 2020 to strengthen U.S. Army operations and command in Europe, reflecting renewed focus on collective defense and deterrence in the region.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War I: V Corps was first activated on 7 July 1918 in France as part of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I, playing a role in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.
•
Normandy Landings: On D-Day, 6 June 1944, V Corps led the assault on Omaha Beach, one of the most heavily defended beaches, suffering immense casualties but securing a vital foothold.
•
Bastogne Relief in Battle of the Bulge: In December 1944, V Corps played a significant role in relieving the besieged town of Bastogne, aiding the 101st Airborne Division during the Battle of the Bulge.
•
Cold War Defender: From 1951 to 1993, V Corps was headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, serving as a key NATO force responsible for defending the Fulda Gap against potential Warsaw Pact invasions.
•
Operation Iraqi Freedom: In 2003, V Corps led the main ground assault from Kuwait into Iraq, capturing Baghdad and toppling Saddam Hussein's regime.
•
Distinctive Unit Insignia: The V Corps' shoulder patch features a blue pentagon, symbolizing the Roman numeral "V" for five, representing the corps’ designation.
•
Deactivation and Reactivation: After being inactivated in 2013 following the drawdown in Europe, V Corps was reactivated in 2020 to bolster U.S. Army presence and command in Europe, headquartered in Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Poland.
•
First All-Female Staff Ride: In 2021, V Corps made history by conducting its first all-female staff ride, highlighting the increasing role of women in military leadership positions.
•
Famous Commanders: Renowned generals such as Omar Bradley and Dwight D. Eisenhower held leadership roles within V Corps during World War II.
•
Support to NATO Allies: V Corps continues to play a pivotal role in NATO operations, supporting exercises and deployments in Eastern Europe to deter aggression and strengthen alliances.