The Third Infantry Division at 90

Third Infantry Division - 2007 - Rock of the Marne

On November 21, 2007, the U.S. Army’s Third Infantry Division celebrates its 90th birthday and service to America, dating back to World War I when it’s "Dog Face Soldiers" first blocked German troops from entering Paris and earned them the nickname, "The Rock of the Marne."

From that day forward, the Third Infantry Division was on the front line of every campaign over the next nine decades.

In World War II, 3 ID crisscrossed Europe and Africa pushing back Nazi offensives.

In Korea, they protected Seoul from the Chinese Army.

Throughout the Cold War, their presence was felt in Western Europe.

In the Balkans, 3 ID deployed to maintain security in Bosnia and Kosovo.

During the Persian Gulf War, the proud Soldiers of the Third Infantry Division helped liberate Kuwait from the Iraqi occupation.

Currently back in Iraq for their third tour of duty under Operation Iraqi Freedom, 3 ID is supporting the Iraqi people as they build toward a country free from terrorism and extremist ideology.

This birthday means a great deal to the men and women of the Third Infantry Division. A Soldier defines his identity by his unit, those other men and women he serves beside everyday. When Soldiers go to war, that identity and faith in their commitment to each other, coupled with the lessons passed down by previous generations, helps them meet the challenge of putting their lives on the line for future generations of Americans.

As today’s “Dog Face Soldiers” carry on this tradition of honor and sacrifice, we invite you to celebrate that tradition with them.