46th Infantry Division (United States)

The 46th Infantry Division was a formation of the United States Army National Guard, active from 1917 to 1968. It participated in World War II in the European Theater of Operations.

World War I:

The division was originally formed in 1917 as part of the buildup of the Army for service in World War I. It was composed of National Guard units from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. However, the division was broken up in 1918 and its personnel were used as replacements for other divisions already serving in France. It did not see combat as a complete division during World War I.

Interwar Period:

The 46th Infantry Division was reconstituted in the National Guard after World War I.

World War II:

The division was activated for federal service in 1940. After training in the United States, the 46th Infantry Division landed in North Africa in August 1944. It then participated in the invasion of Southern France, landing near St. Tropez. The division fought its way north through France, participating in battles such as the Colmar Pocket. It later crossed into Germany and was involved in the occupation of that country. The division was credited with liberating numerous towns and villages from Nazi occupation. The 46th Infantry Division sustained significant casualties during its combat service.

Post-War:

Following the end of World War II, the 46th Infantry Division returned to the United States and was deactivated. It was reactivated in the National Guard, serving until it was inactivated again in 1968 as part of a reorganization of the National Guard structure. Its assets and personnel were reorganized into other units.

Nickname: The "Iron Duke Division".