Book Description

In the first of a two-volume study, the author presents an extremely detailed record of the organization, doctrine and equipment of U.S. Army infantry divisions during the latter part of World War II. After examining the state of the U.S. Army during the 1940-43 period, the author focuses on the 1943-45 period, and presents each of the division's sub-units-- from the divisional HQ to an infantry battalion, from the divisional artillery to its combat engineer element. For each, the author examines their organization (down to the lowest level possible), their training and tactical doctrine, and the equipment, vehicles and weapons they used. The information given for each division includes: divisional insignia illustrated; alongside the division's motto(s); full list of units assigned to the division; full list of units temporarily attached to the division, e.g. tank destroyer battalions, including dates of attachment; complete lists of staff and regimental commanders within the division, including dates served, assignment of division to higher formations (e.g. corps); and extremely detailed combat chronology recording the division's activities. This amounts to a virtual combat diary.