About this Unit
The XXIV (24th) Corps was a corps-level command of the United States Army, first activated during the American Civil War in December 1864. It played a key role in the final campaigns against the Confederacy, participating notably in the Siege of Petersburg and the subsequent occupation of Richmond, Virginia. After the Civil War, the corps was disbanded in 1866. The XXIV Corps designation was later revived during the Vietnam War, where it commanded U.S. Army ground forces in the northernmost region of South Vietnam from 1968 to 1972, playing a crucial role in major operations such as the defense of the Demilitarized Zone and the Easter Offensive of 1972.
Historical Facts
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Formation in World War II: The XXIV Corps was activated on April 8, 1944, at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, as part of the United States Army during World War II.
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Pivotal Role in the Pacific: The Corps played a major role in the Pacific Theater, notably participating in the liberation of Leyte in the Philippines in October 1944, which was a key turning point against Japanese forces.
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Battle of Okinawa: XXIV Corps is best known for its involvement in the Battle of Okinawa (April-June 1945), one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the Pacific War.
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Command Structure: The Corps was part of the U.S. Tenth Army and initially comprised the 7th, 77th, and 96th Infantry Divisions during the Okinawa campaign.
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Engineering Feats: XXIV Corps engineers constructed the longest airstrip in the Pacific at Yontan Airfield on Okinawa, which was crucial for air operations.
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Casualties in Okinawa: The Corps suffered heavy casualties during Okinawa, with more than 34,000 American casualties—killed, wounded, or missing—under its command.
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Post-War Occupation: After Japan's surrender, XXIV Corps was assigned to occupation duties in southern Korea, helping to stabilize the region and establish a U.S. presence.
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Korean War Service: The Corps was reactivated for service in the Korean War in 1950, participating in significant operations such as the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the advance northward.
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Final Inactivation: XXIV Corps was inactivated in 1954 after the conclusion of its duties in Korea, ending a decade of distinguished service.
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Insignia Symbolism: The Corps' shoulder sleeve insignia featured a blue circle with a white cross, symbolizing unity and the Corps’ mission of coordinated military effort.
