#361: The Untold Story of WWII's 45th Infantry Division

Native Influence

The 45th Infantry Division, known as the Thunderbird Division, stood out due to its significant Native American presence. Over 1,500 Native Americans served in this division during WWII, drawn mainly from the western United States, including Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico 1. This unique composition was symbolized by the Thunderbird insignia, a powerful emblem representing both a force for good and a potent avenging force 2.

The Thunderbird represents a kind of a very potent force. It's a force for good if it's harnessed in the right way, if directed in the right way.

--- Alex Kershaw

This emblem replaced the division's original swastika patch in the late 1930s, aligning with the division's mission against the evil of Nazism 2.

   

Recognition

Despite their extensive combat experience, the 45th Infantry Division remains overshadowed by divisions like the 101st Airborne. The Thunderbirds fought for 511 days, significantly more than the 101st's 117 days, yet they are often forgotten in WWII narratives 3. German propaganda underestimated them, labeling American forces as inferior due to their diverse composition, which ironically was a source of strength 4.

The very strength of the American forces was their diversity. I mean, I would argue that the greatest strength of American society is its diversity, and always has been.

--- Alex Kershaw

This diversity was crucial in battles like the Battle of the Bulge, where the 45th proved their mettle against the Germans' preconceived notions 4.