II Corps (United States)

The II Corps was a corps of the United States Army that saw extensive service in the European Theater of World War II. Formed in 1940, it participated in major campaigns including the North African Campaign, the invasion of Sicily, and the Italian Campaign before transferring to France and participating in the breakout from Normandy and subsequent advance into Germany.

Organization and Activation

The II Corps was activated at Fort Jay, Governors Island, New York, on July 10, 1940, under the command of Major General James E. Chaney. Initially designated the Northeast Defense Command, it was redesignated II Corps on January 16, 1942.

North African Campaign (Operation Torch)

II Corps, commanded by Major General Lloyd Fredendall, participated in Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa in November 1942. It landed in Algeria and Tunisia, engaging in battles against German and Italian forces. The Corps suffered a significant defeat at the Battle of Kasserine Pass in February 1943, leading to Fredendall's relief and replacement by Major General George S. Patton.

Sicily and Italy

Under Patton's command, II Corps played a crucial role in the invasion of Sicily in July 1943. Following the campaign in Sicily, Patton was reassigned, and Major General Omar Bradley assumed command of II Corps. The Corps then participated in the Italian Campaign, landing in mainland Italy in September 1943 and fighting its way north through difficult terrain.

Northwest Europe

In January 1944, II Corps was transferred to England in preparation for Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of Normandy. It landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and subsequently fought in the Battle of Normandy, contributing to the Allied breakout. Under Bradley's leadership, and later under various commanders including Major Generals Walter M. Robertson and Leonard T. Gerow, the corps participated in the advance across France, the Battle of the Bulge, and the final push into Germany.

Post-War

Following the end of World War II, II Corps was deactivated in Germany. It was later reactivated and served in various capacities before being deactivated again.

Key Commanders

• Major General James E. Chaney
• Major General Lloyd Fredendall
• Major General George S. Patton
• Major General Omar Bradley
• Major General Walter M. Robertson
• Major General Leonard T. Gerow

Significant Battles and Campaigns

• Operation Torch (North African Campaign)
• Battle of Kasserine Pass
• Invasion of Sicily
• Italian Campaign
• Operation Overlord (Normandy Invasion)
• Battle of Normandy
• Battle of the Bulge
• Advance into Germany