Dale County AlArchives Photo place.....Old and New Home of The 81st Div. , apr.1,1943 1943
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Christine Thacker http://www.genrecords.net/emailregistry/vols/00033.html#0008100 May 30, 2004, 3:25 pm

Source: The Southern Star
Photo can be seen at:
http://www.usgwarchives.net/al/dale/photos/gph421oldandne.jpg
Image file size: 151.3 Kb

55 Years Ago, April 1, 1943....Reprinted Apr.1, 1998

81st Division Now On Maneuvers
 Return To Camp Area For Short Stay In April

  Campfires rimmed the hills surrounding Camp Rucker last week as the various 
units of the mighty Wildcats forsook the barracks for tents and prepared to 
leave their initial training ground for extensive maneuvers.
  Prior to their departure from Camp Rucker last week the units of the 81st 
Division arrayed itself in full battle paraphernalia and marched proudly and 
quickly from the camp. In a short period of time they pitched their tents 
outside the camp proper and returned to clean and polish the barracks and
area just like new.
  This last job finished the Wildcats said goodbye to the comforts of Camp 
Rucker and shortly after midnight last Thursday they were on their way to the 
scene of their last Alabama maneuver.
  In orderly columns, the troops took to the  highways, and the roar of motors 
heralded the fact that the Motor Transportation Units were ready for any 
contingency. Within a few hours time thee Division was in its, position ready 
for extensive maneuvers.
  Next week the Wildcals return to the Camp area for a short stay preparatory 
to their final departure from Camp Rucker. The Division will be camped in tents 
near the Camp that has been their home for the past nine months
  The cadre contingents of the 81st Division arrived at Camp Rucker last May. 
After a few weeks, troop trains from all sections of the United States 
excepting the New England States, began to converge upon the camp. By the 
latter part of June the movement of rookies had been completed, and the 
fledgling Wildcats started their training.
  General Gustav Franke was Division Commander when the 81st began its rigid 
training. He was replaced by General Paul J. Mueller in August. Both generals 
heaped all the phases of military science, old and new, upon the new division
so that it would be prepared for whatever fate might decree.        




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