$5.00
The 3 Infantry Division 3A(A/b) is an authentic WWII era Shoulder Sleeve Insignia. Collectors often search for this type of item as a Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, also known as Patch. This WWII period piece is highly sought after by military memorabilia enthusiasts and historians.
3rd Infantry Division 1914–1921 (World War I) The 3rd Infantry Division was constituted on 12 November 1917 and organized at Camp Greene, North Carolina. Assigned to the American Expeditionary Forces, the division distinguished itself in major campaigns including Aisne, Champagne-Marne, Aisne-Marne, St. Mihiel, Meuse-Argonne, and Champagne 1918. The division earned the nickname "Rock of the Marne" for its steadfast defense during the Second Battle of the Marne, a pivotal moment in halting the German advance. Following the Armistice, the division served in occupation duties before returning to the United States and demobilizing in 1919. 1940–1947 (World War II) Reactivated in 1940 at Fort Lewis, Washington, the 3rd Infantry Division participated in extensive combat operations during World War II. The division landed in North Africa during Operation Torch, fought in the Sicily Campaign, and was among the first Allied units to land in mainland Italy. It played a key role in the Anzio landings and the liberation of Rome, then participated in Operation Dragoon, the invasion of southern France. The division advanced through France and Germany, earning distinction for its combat effectiveness and suffering heavy casualties. The 3rd Infantry Division was inactivated in Germany in 1946 after occupation duties. 1948–1957 (Early Cold War / Korea) The division was reactivated in 1946 and later deployed to Korea in 1950. During the Korean War, the 3rd Infantry Division participated in major operations including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter, the Inchon landings, and the advance to the Yalu River. The division fought in the Battle of Chipyong-ni and the defense of the Hungnam evacuation, earning multiple campaign credits and decorations for valor. After the armistice, the division remained in Korea for occupation duties before returning to the United States. 1958–1980 (Cold War / Vietnam Era) During the Cold War, the 3rd Infantry Division was stationed in West Germany as part of NATO forces, serving as a key deterrent against potential Soviet aggression. The division maintained a high state of readiness, participating in numerous training exercises and reinforcing U.S. commitments to European security. 1980–Present (Post-Vietnam / GWOT) The 3rd Infantry Division continued its service in Europe until the end of the Cold War, after which it returned to the United States. In the 21st century, the division played a prominent role in the Global War on Terror, leading the assault during the 2003 invasion of Iraq and participating in subsequent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The division remains an active and highly decorated unit in the U.S. Army, known for its combat record and adaptability. References (AMA) Wikipedia contributors. 3rd Infantry Division (United States). n.d. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3rd_Infantry_Division_(United_States) GlobalSecurity.org. 3rd Infantry Division. n.d. https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/army/3id.htm