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The 30th's Insignia consists of a scarlet red oval monogram, which includes on it the letters OH and the Roman numeral XXX in royal blue. The OH representing the Divisions nickname "Old Hickory, and the XXX the Division's numerical designation. |
TYPE OF DIVISION: Comprised of National Guard units from the States of North and South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee at the beginning of WWII.
NICKNAME: The 30th infantry Division was proudly called "Old Hickory" after Andrew Jackson, distinguished soldier and the 7th President of the United States.
HISTORY
Although not involved in the actual invasion of Normandy, The 30th Infantry Division participated in all major battle campaigns of the ETO, defeated the German Army at St Lo; Mortain and the Battle of Bulge; playing a pivotal role in the breach of the Siegfried Line, also known as the 'Westwall'.
At wars end, Eisenhower asked his staff to evaluate the numerous divisions that participated in the war. The 30th Infantry Division was selected number one and recommended for the Presidential Unit Citation.
This can be seen in the LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION BY: COL S.L.A MARSHALL,GSC.
During combat, the 30th Infantry Division was known as the "Workhorse of the Western Front." Often referred to as "Roosevelt's SS Troops" by the German High Command because of the consistent and terrific pressure the 30th Infantry Division brought to bear on Hitler's 'elite' 1st SS Division.
The 30th was Awarded 5 battle stars and 8 Presidential Unit Citations during WWII, 6 men receiving the highest combat decoration the 'Congressional Medal of Honor'
In Combat for 282 days during WWII they entered combat on June 15 1944 in France and fought their way into Germany. While all may not have received the awards or recognition they deserved, they all fought valiantly and with honor to protect freedom and to liberate the people of Europe. To fight for and to preserve the spirit of humanity and justice. They are 'The Heroes of Old Hickory.'