Russell E. Kratzer, III

The 338th Medical Group was originally constituted as the 338th Medical Battalion on 27 July 1942 and activated on 15 August 1942 at Camp Barkeley, Texas. During World War II, the unit provided critical medical support in the European Theater, including participation in campaigns across France and Germany. After the war, the unit underwent several redesignations and was inactivated and reactivated multiple times as part of the U.S. Army Reserve, ultimately being redesignated as the 338th Medical Group. Throughout its history, the 338th has played an essential role in delivering medical care and evacuation services to soldiers in both combat and peacetime operations.

The US Army Armor School was established in 1940 at Fort Knox, Kentucky, to develop and train armored warfare tactics and doctrine for the United States Army. Throughout World War II, the school played a crucial role in preparing tank crews and leaders, contributing significantly to Allied successes on the battlefield. Over the decades, it evolved to incorporate advances in armored vehicle technology and combined arms operations, continually adapting its curriculum. In 2011, the Armor School relocated to Fort Benning, Georgia, as part of the Army’s Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, where it continues to train the next generation of armor soldiers and leaders.

The 157th Separate Infantry Brigade (Mechanized), known as the 157th Sep Inf Bde (M), traces its lineage to the original 157th Infantry Regiment, a unit with roots in the Colorado National Guard and distinguished service in both World Wars. Reactivated and reorganized during the Cold War era as part of the Army Reserve, the 157th Sep Inf Bde (M) was designated as a mechanized brigade, focusing on training and preparing reserve soldiers for rapid deployment. Throughout its existence, the brigade participated in numerous large-scale exercises and supported the Army’s Total Force policy, providing critical support during mobilizations. The unit was later inactivated as part of Army restructuring, but its legacy of readiness and service continues through its successor elements and historical commemorations.

The 314th Infantry Regiment was constituted in the National Army on August 5, 1917, and assigned to the 79th Division. It served with distinction during World War I, most notably participating in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Reactivated for World War II, the regiment fought in the European Theater, including campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. After World War II, the 314th Infantry Regiment underwent several reorganizations and is currently part of the U.S. Army Reserve, continuing its legacy of service.