82nd Airborne Division Badge

82nd Airborne Division Badge

82nd Airborne Division badge. Nicknamed the"All Americans" they had the motto "All the Way!"

The 82nd Airborne can trace its history back to World War 1 and has fought in many wars/conflicts since including WW2, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.

During WW2 the 82nd AB was the first Airborne division formed within the US Army. In April 1943, the Division deployed to the Mediterranean Theatre of Operations (MTO) in preperation for the Allied invasion of Sicilly. The 82nd made two combat jumps on the island, making them the first in the US Army. The 82nd transferred back to the UK in November 1943 to prepare for the Invasion of Europe (Operation Neptune). The Division spent 33 days fighting in Normandy following their landings on D-Day. The commander of the 82nd, Major General Ridgway's post-battle report stated

"... 33 days of action without relief, without replacements. Every mission accomplished. No ground gained was ever relinquished."

The Division also took part Operation Market Garden as well as The Battle of the Bulge.

The 82nd Airborne's HQ is currently at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, USA.

This is a fantastic reproduction of the Shoulder Sleeve Insignia worn by the unit. It depicts two A's (which stand for 'All American') on a blue circle with a red background. Above is the word 'Airborne' embroidered in white on a blue background.

Perfect for your 82nd Airborne Division collection!