History
The 81st Infantry Division was first created during World War I but spent most of its early time training. When World War II started, the unit was reorganized as a specialized fighting force. It became known as the Wildcats and was sent to the Pacific theater to fight.
In the Pacific, the division participated in important island-hopping missions. Their job was to help clear Japanese forces from islands that were needed for airfields. The fighting was often very difficult because the islands were covered in thick trees and mud.
After the war, the 81st Infantry Division was deactivated for a time. It was later brought back as part of the Army Reserve. It helped train soldiers for many years before it was eventually closed down for good in the 1990s. The unit is remembered for its hard work during the war.
