The following text is on file in the
National Archives. It is reprinted from the Fall 1998 issue of the
Trailblazer, the Association's magazine. Error has been noted in
text with red asterix.
HEADQUARTERS
ARMY GROUND FORCES
Office of the Commanding General
Washington, D. C.
21 September 1945
SUBJECT: Letter of Appreciation
TO: Commanding General, 70th Infantry Division
Strong devotion to duty permits the fighting men of the
70th Infantry Division to stand proudly with other courageous
American soldiers who swept across Western Europe to crush Nazism
and the tyranny which threatened our civilization. To these men and
to their gallant comrades who fell in battle, a grateful nation pays
deep homage.
The Trailblazer Division is deserving of praise and
recognition for an impressive combat record, highlighted by its
reduction of the Bitche salient, crossing of the Saar River, capture
of Saarbrucken and reduction of the prize Saar Basin. The story of
our great victory would not be complete without the chapter written
by the 70th Division as it breached the formidable Siegfried Line
defenses to permit a juncture with the Third Army.
Best known for its skill and tenacity during the bitter
fighting in Northeastern France after von Rundstedt had launched his
ill-fated winter drive, the 70th Division was committed to defensive
positions in the line less than three weeks after its arrival in
France in December, 1944. Activated at Camp Adair, Oregon, on 15
June 1943, the Division moved to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, in
July, 1943* to complete its training.
Although the 70th Infantry Division is now being
deactivated, the heroism and self-sacrifice of its officers and men
will never be forgotten. Thus it is my privilege to join your fellow
countrymen in commending you for your splendid accomplishments.
/a/ Jacob L. Devers,
/t/ Jacob L. Devers,
General, USA,
Commanding.
A CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:
A. J. Barnett
Brig. Gen. GSC.
* Should be 1944
