WWII 1st Armoured Division Patch

A used 1st Armoured Division patch, Fully embroidered example, with sage and service wear.

The 1st Armored Division, nicknamed "Old Ironsides," is the oldest, most recognizable armor division in the United States Army. As part of the mechanization of the U.S. Army and the buildup for World War II, cavalry and reconnaissance units were brought together to form the 1st Armored Division, July 15, 1940, at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

On May 11, 1942, the 1st Armored Division left the U.S. and five days later were training in Northern Ireland. On Oct. 29, 1942, Old Ironsides moved to England to depart for North Africa.

The 1st Armored Division's first contact with an enemy was as part of the Allied invasion of North Africa, Operation Torch, Nov. 8, 1942. The Allies received unexpected resistance from Vichy-French units. Old Ironsides then advanced toward Tunisia. In January 1943, Old Ironsides, as part of II Corps, received the mission of defending central Tunisia against an Axis counterattack. After three months, the Allies could finally claim victory in North Africa. Old Ironsides then moved to Naples, Italy, Oct. 28, 1943, to support the Allied effort there In the theatre.

Code: 58377