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The U.S. Third Division

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    During World War II, steadfast determination saw the 3rd through eight campaigns in seven countries and four amphibious landings (Morocco, Sicily, Anzio and St. Tropez). The last of these landings brought them up the Rhone Valley, into the Vosges Mountains of Alsace, Strasbourg and the Colmar Pocket.
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    On January 22 1945 in 'Siberian' conditions, the 3rd moved out from the relative safety of the Vosges foothills onto the exposed Rhine Valley floor, coursed by rivers, streams and an ensconced enemy. The plan was to bypass the city of Colmar and drive on to bridges at Neuf Brisach and the Rhine supplying the German forces. After setbacks and sacrifices, they reached their objective on the 6th February 1945. Learn more about the division on this tour.
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Formed in 1917, the U.S. Third Division was dubbed the 'Rock of the Marne' after repelling an attack by two German divisions, saving the Marne river and Paris in 1918.