United States Army Center for Military History

“ Narrative The 3rd Division is the only American Division which fought the Nazi on all fronts. The Division first saw action in the North African invasion, landing at Fedala, 8 November 1942, and capturing half of French Morocco. On 10 July 1943, the Division made an assault landing on Sicily, fought its way into Palermo before the armor could get there, and raced on to capture Messina, thus ending the Sicilian campaign. Nine days after the Italian invasion, 18 September 1943, the 3rd landed at Salerno and in intensive action drove to and across the Volturno and to Cassino. ”

“ Symbolism: The three white stripes of the insignia are symbolical of the three major operations in which the division participated during World War I. The blue field symbolizes the loyalty of those who placed their lives on the altar of self-sacrifice in defense of the American ideals of liberty and democracy. Background: This insignia was originally approved by telegram for the 3rd Division on 24 October 1918. It was officially announced on 20 June 1922. The insignia was amended to correct the wording of the description on 11 October 1922. ”

“ XXI Corps, Seventh Army, 6th Army Group, but attached to French First Army. 15 February 1945: Seventh Army, 6th Army Group, but attached to the French II Corps of the French First Army. 18 February 1945: Seventh Army, 6th Army Group, but attached to the French II Corps. ”