About this Unit
The 108th Training Command (Initial Entry Training) was first constituted in the Organized Reserve in 1921 as the 108th Division. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the unit has a storied history that includes activation during World War II, where it served as a training division preparing soldiers for combat. After the war, the unit remained focused on training missions, later evolving into the 108th Training Command (IET) to provide drill sergeants and instructors to support Army training centers across the United States. Today, the 108th Training Command continues its mission as a key component of the Army Reserve, shaping new generations of soldiers through rigorous training and leadership development.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 108th Training Command was originally constituted in the Army of the United States on 24 June 1921 as the 108th Division, but was not activated until 15 June 1942 at Camp Hood, Texas, during World War II.
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Infantry Training Role: During WWII, the 108th Division was primarily responsible for training infantry replacements rather than deploying overseas, playing a crucial behind-the-lines role in preparing soldiers for combat.
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Postwar Reserve Component: After WWII, the division was inactivated but reactivated in 1946 as a Reserve unit, reflecting the postwar shift in U.S. military organization toward a more robust Reserve structure.
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Evolution to Training Command: In 1952, the unit was redesignated as the 108th Division (Training), reflecting its continuing focus on training rather than combat operations.
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Integration Milestone: The 108th was one of the first U.S. Army units to integrate African-American soldiers into its ranks during its time as a training division, supporting the Army’s broader desegregation efforts in the 1950s.
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Shoulder Patch Symbolism: The division’s shoulder sleeve insignia—a golden griffin on a blue background—represents vigilance, courage, and strength, attributes expected of the soldiers it trains.
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Operation Desert Storm Support: During the Gulf War, the 108th provided critical training and support for deploying units, helping prepare thousands of soldiers for combat operations in the Middle East.
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Modern Structure: Today, the 108th Training Command oversees three major subordinate divisions: the 95th, 98th, and 104th Training Divisions, specializing in Initial Entry Training, Leader Training, and Drill Sergeant Training.
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Geographic Reach: The 108th is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, but its subordinate units are spread across the United States, reflecting its nationwide training mission.
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Ongoing Legacy: The 108th Training Command continues to play a vital role in preparing Army Reserve and National Guard soldiers, ensuring readiness for both domestic missions and overseas deployments in the 21st century.
