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The Thunderbirds
One of America's most acclaimed World War II combat units was the 45th Infantry Division, known as the Thunderbirds for their distinctive insignia. Many American Indians served in the 45th, including three who received the Medal of Honor: Jack Montgomery (Cherokee, 1917–2002), Van T. Barfoot (Choctaw, 1919–2012), and Ernest Childers (Muscogee [Creek], 1918–2005).
Formed as a National Guard unit in 1923, the Thunderbirds were deployed to North Africa in June 1943. After invading Sicily and participating in the invasions of Salerno and Anzio in Italy, the division invaded southern France and fought in fierce combat in the Vosges Mountains before crossing the border into Germany. There, the unit liberated Dachau concentration camp, freeing more than 30,000 prisoners.
General Patton said to the Thunderbirds, "You are one of the best, if not the best, divisions in the history of American arms." |