3rd Infantry Division

The 3rd Infantry Division “Rock of the Marne” is one of the U.S. Army’s most decorated combat divisions. From standing firm at the Marne in World War I, to storming the beaches of Normandy, to fierce combat in Korea, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the 3rd ID has proven itself across every era of modern warfare. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 3rd Infantry Division.

The 3rd Infantry Division was activated on 21 November 1917 at Camp Greene, North Carolina, and quickly deployed to France during World War I. The division earned its immortal nickname, “Rock of the Marne,” during the Second Battle of the Marne in July 1918, when it held firm against a massive German assault while other units withdrew. This defense earned lasting recognition and cemented the division’s reputation for resilience.

World War II

In World War II, the 3rd ID became one of the Army’s most battle-hardened divisions. It landed in North Africa in 1942, fought through Sicily and Italy, including the brutal battles at Anzio and Monte Cassino, and later stormed the beaches of Southern France in 1944. The division fought across France and Germany, helping liberate Dachau concentration camp. One of its Soldiers, Audie Murphy, became the most decorated American Soldier of the war, embodying the division’s legacy of valor.

Korean War

The 3rd Infantry Division was one of the first units committed to Korea in 1950 and fought in some of the war’s bloodiest battles, including the Chosin Reservoir campaign. The division endured freezing conditions, heavy casualties, and relentless enemy attacks but held the line, further enhancing its reputation for toughness under fire.

Cold War & Peacekeeping

After Korea, the division remained active in Europe, stationed in West Germany as part of NATO’s defense during the Cold War. It later took part in peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Kosovo, reflecting its adaptability to changing global missions.

Global War on Terror

The 3rd ID played a central role in the early years of the Iraq War. In 2003, the division spearheaded the invasion of Iraq, racing to Baghdad in one of the fastest armored advances in military history. Later deployments saw the division conducting counterinsurgency operations across Iraq and Afghanistan, where its brigades fought in some of the toughest battles of the wars.

Current Mission

Today, the 3rd Infantry Division is headquartered at Fort Stewart, Georgia, with elements at Hunter Army Airfield. It is structured as an armored division under XVIII Airborne Corps, designed for rapid deployment and high-intensity combat. The division regularly trains and deploys to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, maintaining readiness for modern contingencies.

Identity & Legacy

• Nickname: “Rock of the Marne”

• Motto: “Nous Resterons Là” (“We Shall Remain There”)

• Distinctive Insignia: Blue and white diagonal stripes, symbolizing loyalty and steadfastness.

• Unique Distinction: Known as the Army’s most decorated division, with 60+ Medal of Honor recipients.

• Decorations: Multiple Presidential Unit Citations, French Croix de Guerre, Valorous Unit Awards, and countless campaign streamers from WWI to present.

Enduring Significance

From the trenches of France in World War I to the deserts of Iraq and mountains of Afghanistan, the 3rd Infantry Division has stood as one of the U.S. Army’s most enduring and combat-proven divisions. Its Soldiers continue to carry forward the proud legacy of the “Rock of the Marne.”

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Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 3rd Infantry Division.