30th Infantry Division

The 30th Infantry Division, activated on 16 September 1940, was nicknamed the "Old Hickory" division, in honor of President Andrew Jackson.

After the U.S. officially entered World War II, The 30th Infantry Division arrived in England, 22 February 1944, and trained until June when they landed at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France on 11 June 1945, five days after the D-Day Landings had begun. The 30th crossed the Vire River on 7 July and spearheaded the St. Lo break through beginning the 25th.

The 30th Division relieved the 1st Infantry Division near Mortain on 6 August. At this time the Germans began a drive to Avranches which the 30th blunted a week later. The division drove east across France and through Belgium, crossing the Meuse River. In October they joined the 1st Division in encircling Aachen.

On 17 December the division rushed south to the Malmedy-Stavelot area to help block the German Ardennes Offensive. At the conclusion of the Battle of the Bulge the 30th began their own counteroffensive in January 1945 moving South of St. Vith. The end of February 1945 had the 30th Division crossing the Roer River.

Following removal from the front lines for rest and recuperation, the 30th crossed the Rhine River on the 24 March. In April, after pushing across Germany the 30th Infantry Division linked up with the Russians on the Elbe River where they remained until VE Day.

Nickname: Old Hickory