During World War II, the US Army 45th Infantry Division wore a distinctive shoulder patch that represented their unit. The patch featured a yellow Thunderbird on a red background, with blue and white stripes on either side. This patch was worn by soldiers of the 45th Division as they fought in various campaigns throughout the war. The 45th Infantry Division, also known as the "Thunderbird Division," was one of the most storied units in the US Army during World War II. They saw action in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Southern France, before finally being deployed to Germany in the later stages of the war. The Thunderbird patch was a symbol of pride and solidarity for the soldiers of the 45th Division, as they fought bravely against the Axis forces. The design of the patch was chosen to reflect the Native American heritage of the region where the division was originally formed. The Thunderbird is a powerful symbol in Native American culture, representing strength, power, and protection. By wearing this patch, the soldiers of the 45th Division were honoring the traditions of the Native peoples of the Southwest. The 45th Infantry Division earned a reputation for their tenacity and courage in battle, and their Thunderbird patch became a symbol of the fighting spirit of the division. The patch was worn on the left shoulder of the uniform, and was a source of pride for the soldiers who wore it. Today, the legacy of the 45th Infantry Division lives on in the Oklahoma Army National Guard, which carries on the traditions of the Thunderbird Division. The patch is still worn by members of the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, who continue to honor the memory of their predecessors who fought so bravely during World War II. To learn more about the history of the US Army 45th Infantry Division and their shoulder patch in World War II, visit the official US Army website at www.army.mil. You can also find more information at the National World War II Museum website at www.nationalww2museum.org.

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