World War II saw over 320,000 Georgians serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. They fought in every major campaign, from the beaches of Normandy to the islands of the Pacific. Their bravery and sacrifice were crucial to Allied victory.

Georgian servicemen faced discrimination, harsh combat conditions, and the horrors of war. Despite these challenges, they forged strong bonds with fellow soldiers and made significant contributions to the war effort, leaving a lasting legacy of heroism and resilience.

Notable Georgians in World War II

Trailblazing African American Servicemen

• Eugene Bullard, born in Columbus, GA, was the first African American military pilot to fly in combat during World War I and later served in the French Resistance during World War II
• Lieutenant Henry O. Flipper, born into slavery in Thomasville, GA, was the first African American graduate of West Point and served in the 9th Cavalry Regiment and 24th Infantry Regiment
• African American soldiers from Georgia, such as those in the 92nd Infantry Division, faced discrimination and segregation within the military while also fighting for their country
• Despite the challenges they faced, these trailblazing servicemen paved the way for greater equality and inclusion in the U.S. military

Prominent Georgian Military Leaders

• General Courtney Hodges, born in Perry, GA, commanded the First United States Army during the D-Day invasion and throughout the European campaign
• Major General William "Bill" Livsey, born in Clarkston, GA, commanded the 82nd Airborne Division during World War II and later served as the Commanding General of Fort Benning
• Lieutenant Colonel Lemuel Penn, born in Warm Springs, GA, served in World War II and was later murdered by the Ku Klux Klan in a hate crime that galvanized support for the Civil Rights Act of 1964
• These Georgian military leaders played crucial roles in key battles and campaigns, demonstrating exceptional leadership and bravery in the face of adversity

Georgia's Military Contributions in World War II

Participation in Major Campaigns and Theaters

• Over 320,000 Georgians served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, participating in every major campaign and theater of the war
• The 30th Infantry Division, which included many Georgian soldiers, played a critical role in the Normandy invasion and the Battle of the Bulge
• Georgian servicemen were among the first American troops to land in North Africa during Operation Torch and fought in the Italian Campaign, including the battles of Salerno and Anzio
• In the Pacific theater, Georgian soldiers, sailors, and airmen participated in key battles such as Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa

Roles of Georgian Pilots and Air Support

• Georgian pilots flew missions in both the European and Pacific theaters, including providing air support during the D-Day invasion and bombing campaigns against Japan
• These pilots faced the dangers of aerial dogfights and anti-aircraft fire while carrying out crucial missions to support ground troops and weaken enemy forces
• Georgian airmen also served as navigators, bombardiers, and gunners, playing essential roles in the success of air operations
• The contributions of Georgian pilots and air support personnel were instrumental in the Allied victory in World War II

Experiences of Georgian Soldiers in World War II

Challenges Faced in Combat

• Many Georgian servicemen faced the challenges of combat, including the horrors of trench warfare, the dangers of submarine attacks, and the stress of aerial dogfights
• Georgian prisoners of war endured harsh conditions and treatment in German and Japanese captivity, with many suffering from malnutrition, disease, and forced labor
• The experience of war had a profound impact on the mental health of many Georgian veterans, with some struggling with what is now recognized as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Despite these challenges, Georgian soldiers, sailors, and airmen demonstrated remarkable resilience and bravery in the face of adversity

Camaraderie and Lasting Bonds

• Georgian servicemen forged deep bonds with their fellow soldiers, sailors, and airmen during the war, creating a sense of camaraderie that lasted long after the conflict ended
• Many veterans joined organizations such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) to maintain these connections and advocate for the needs of veterans
• The shared experiences of war created a unique bond among Georgian veterans, who often relied on each other for support and understanding in the years following the conflict
• These lasting bonds are a testament to the strength and unity of Georgian servicemen who fought together during World War II