2nd Infantry Divisions 69th Birthday

The 2nd Infantry Division was formed in Bourmont France 96 years ago. It bears the Indianhead patch and while no one really knows why that image was selected, it's thought to be because the Indian was the first people of America. The distinctive unit insignia is: Second to None and the motto is: Fight Tonight.

During WWI the 2 ID earned the most Medal of Honors.

One of the most interesting points of note about the 2ID is that it is partially made of of Korean soldiers, called KATUSAs (Korean Augmentation to US Army). This program began in 1950 by agreement with South Korean President Syngman Rhee. Some 27,000 KATUSAs served with the US forces at the end of the Korean War.

Today at the birthday celebration I had the honor of meeting Mr. Kwak, Kyeong Chan. Mr. Kwak is a U.S. Bronze Medal Recipient. I believe he may be one of the few KATUSAs who has been awarded a US Bronze Star. At 70 years of age he wears his medal proudly. He participated in the Hweong Sung Battle in Kwang Won Province.

Pictured here from left to right is CSM Spano, Pvt Tyler Brown, Gen Vandal, Mr. Kwak, Mr. Kim and WO Lily. Pvt Brown holds the distinction of being the youngest member of the division while WO Lily is the most mature, although truth be known there is another soldier who holds that distinction. Mr. Kim is a KATUSA who fought in Vietnam.

Happy Birthday 2nd ID...may you have a peaceful year!