91st Infantry Division - Powder River

Activated 15 Aug 1942  •  Entered Combat 9 Jun 1944 Rome •  Days of Combat 271  •  Casualties 8,744

DIVISION CHRONICLE

The 91st Infantry Division arrived in North Africa, 18 April to 10 May 1944, and trained at Port-aux-Poules near Oran. Leaving by units, the entire Division was in Italy, 19 June 1944. Meanwhile, the 361st RCT moved to Naples on 27 May and then landed at Anzio, 1 June, and fought near Velletri south of Rome from 3 June. The 363d RCT entered combat near Riparbella, 4 July.

On 12 July, the Division fought as a unit near Chianni, Italy, for the high ground dominating the Arno River. By the 19th it had reached the river. The 363d RCT participated in the capture of Livorno, 19 July, and in a quick thrust to the north, two units entered Pisa, 24 July. From 24 July to 12 September 1944, the 91st held their positions along the Arno while they underwent extensive training. On the 13th, the Division attacked the Gothic Line, took Monticelli, 18 September, and advanced to the Santerno River through stubborn resistance, 23 September. Moving through rocky escarpments and other natural barriers as well as heavy opposition, the 91st occupied Livergnano, 13 October. The offensive was canceled, however, and the 91st assumed defensive positions below Pianoro, 31 October.

During November, the 91st remained on the defensive, sending out small patrols. After resting in December, the Division returned to the line and maintained a static defensive front until 20 March 1945, when the Division retired to Gagliano and Villanova to prepare for a new offensive. This final assault began on 15 April 1945. The 91st entered Bologna, 21 April, and moved along Highway No. 64 against slight resistance. After crossing the Po River on the 23d, the Division swung to the northeast, crossing the Adige River, 26 April, and reaching. Treviso on the 29th. All enemy forces in Italy surrendered, 2 May, and the 91st was assigned occupational duties in the Province of Venezia-Giulia, including the Trieste area.