The 10th Mountain Division, a unique Mountain Warfare Unit within the United States Army, stands as a testament to specialized combat expertise. Originating during World War II, the division was an innovative response by the Army Chief to the challenges posed by mountainous and arctic conditions, particularly after observing the intense Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union.
Their formation at Camp Hale, situated in the high altitudes of Colorado, was influenced by the National Ski Patrol's push to create specialized alpine troops. At Camp Hale, soldiers underwent rigorous training in skiing, rock climbing, and cold weather survival. Their unparalleled preparation was evident during World War II when the division was thrust into the Italian Campaign, notably in the significant battles of Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere. Here, the 10th Mountain Division, operating as two battalion task forces, faced off against German troops and secured critical positions in the Northern Apennines, aiding Allied Forces.
Post-World War II, the division was briefly deactivated, but the evolving landscape of global combat operations would see them reactivated and restructured. The division's roles expanded beyond mountain combat, with units involved in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, Operation Joint Guardian, and Operation Joint Task Force in the Balkans. Their deployment in Task Force Eagle and the Combined Joint Task Force during Operation Inherent Resolve showcased their adaptability.
Today, Fort Drum stands as the operational base for the 10th Mountain Division, with Division Headquarters overseeing several Brigade Combat Teams. The division, while still honoring its alpine heritage from the days at Camp Hale, has grown to encompass a broader range of operations, including Air Assault. The battalion task forces stationed at Fort Drum have played pivotal roles in engagements such as Operation Desert Storm and multiple tours during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
Their patch, a bayonet set against a powder keg backdrop, is not merely decorative. It’s a reminder of their origins at Camp Hale, their roles across multiple combat operations, and their unwavering commitment as a leading Army Forces unit in the United States Army.
The motto "Climb to Glory" serves as a rallying cry for the 10th Mountain Division, a constant reminder of the values that have guided them throughout their storied history. It underscores the division's unwavering commitment to overcoming adversity and achieving victory, no matter the challenges they face. In this way, the motto is not only a reflection of the past but also a beacon for the future, inspiring generations of soldiers to come.
