The distinguished history of the 38th Infantry Division (38th ID), known as the Cyclone Division, spans from World War I to the modern era. Formed as an U.S. Army National Guard unit, the division has served in multiple conflicts, participated in domestic emergency responses, and continues to play a vital role in national defense. Its nickname originates from a destructive hurricane that struck its training camp in 1917, symbolizing the resilience and strength of its soldiers.

Formation and World War I

The 38th Infantry Division was officially organized on August 25, 1917, at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, drawing National Guard units primarily from Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Shortly after its formation, the camp was struck by a devastating hurricane, giving rise to the division’s moniker. The division was initially intended for combat in France during World War I, but instead, it was used largely as a replacement pool. Many of its soldiers were reassigned to other units, and as a result, the 38th ID never saw combat as a complete formation. Following the armistice, the division was demobilized on March 9, 1919.

The division was reconstituted in 1923 as part of the National Guard, with headquarters established in Indianapolis, Indiana. Throughout the interwar period, the division underwent multiple reorganizations.

World War II: The Avengers of Bataan

On January 17, 1941, the 38th Infantry Division was federalized and activated for World War II service. Initially tasked with homeland defense and training, the division was later deployed to the Pacific Theater in January 1944, arriving in Hawaii for additional training before joining combat operations in the Philippines. At this time Maj. Gen. Robert Tyndall commanded the division.

The 38th ID played a pivotal role in the Luzon Campaign, landing at Lingayen Gulf in January 1945. Its forces were instrumental in the liberation of Bataan and Manila, earning the division the title "Avengers of Bataan" due to its role in reclaiming the territory where American and Filipino forces had suffered during the Bataan Death March in 1942. The division fought fiercely in battles across the Zambales Mountains, Subic Bay, and Corregidor, facing entrenched Japanese resistance. By the end of the campaign, the division had suffered nearly 400 killed and over 1,500 wounded but had successfully achieved its objectives.

For its valor, the 38th Infantry Division received two Presidential Unit Citations (PUCs) and a Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC). These prestigious awards were conferred for the division's outstanding heroism and exceptional performance in combat.

Following the war, the division was inactivated in 1945 but was later reactivated in 1947 as a National Guard unit.

Cold War and Vietnam Era

During the Cold War, the 38th Infantry Division remained an essential part of the National Guard's strategic reserve. It participated in extensive training exercises and remained on standby for national emergencies. Unlike some other Guard formations, the 38th ID was not deployed to Vietnam as a full division. However, individual soldiers and smaller units from its affiliated state National Guard organizations were mobilized and served in Vietnam, primarily as replacements for active-duty forces. The division continued to modernize during this era, adapting to changes in military doctrine and force structure.

Modern Era and the Global War on Terror

Since 9/11, the 38th Infantry Division has been actively engaged in both overseas operations and domestic missions. Under the command of Maj. Gen. David L. Harris, elements of the division have been deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, providing security, training allied forces, and conducting combat operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait.

Domestically, the division has been repeatedly called upon for disaster relief and emergency response missions. It played a key role in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina (2005) and Hurricane Harvey (2017), assisting with search and rescue, logistics, and humanitarian aid. Additionally, the division was mobilized to support COVID-19 pandemic relief efforts, helping with logistics, testing, and medical support operations.

Today, the 38th Infantry Division remains a key component of the Indiana Army National Guard, with its headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana. Its current structure includes:

• 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Indiana)
• 38th Combat Aviation Brigade
• 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Ohio, attached)
• 219th Engineer Brigade (Indiana)
• 38th Sustainment Brigade

These units provide a wide range of capabilities, including infantry, aviation, engineering, and logistics support, and ensure the division remains versatile and mission-ready. Whether fighting abroad or providing aid at home, the Cyclone Division continues to uphold its proud history as a crucial element of the Army National Guard. We at Proven Arms & Outfitters are honored to help facilitate a commemorative firearm for the Cyclone Division.

The purchase window for this group is 3/26/2025- 4/28/2025.

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• The lead time for Commemorative orders is 6-8 months after orders have been submitted to the manufacturer. This lead time is subject to change.

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