Introduction
The US Army’s 10th Mountain Division has played a major role in Colorado’s history since their formation in 1943. From training in the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains to conducting various operations in the region, they have become an integral part of the state’s military history. This article will explore the history and legacy of the 10th Mountain Division in Colorado, from their training to their contributions to the state.
Formation of the 10th Mountain Division
The 10th Mountain Division was formed in 1943, with the purpose of providing the US Army with an elite force of mountain and winter warfare specialists. They were initially trained at Camp Hale, which was located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains near Leadville, Colorado. The area was chosen due to its rugged terrain and extreme climate, which were ideal for training mountain and winter warfare soldiers. The soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division were trained in skiing, mountain climbing, and a variety of other skills that were essential for mountain and winter combat.
Involvement in World War II
The 10th Mountain Division was deployed to Europe in 1945, just before the end of World War II. They were involved in a number of major battles in the Italian Alps, including the Battle of Riva Ridge and the Battle of Mount Belvedere. Their success in these battles was instrumental in the Allied victory in Italy. After the war, the 10th Mountain Division was deactivated and many of its members returned to Colorado.
Legacy in Colorado
The legacy of the 10th Mountain Division in Colorado is strong. After the war, many of the veterans of the division returned to the state and began to explore the mountains and ski resorts of the region. These veterans were instrumental in the development of many of the ski resorts that are now popular in Colorado, such as Vail and Aspen. They also helped to popularize the sport of skiing in the state, and many of the ski resorts in Colorado are still named after members of the 10th Mountain Division.
The 10th Mountain Division Ski Hut System
The 10th Mountain Division also left an important legacy in the form of the 10th Mountain Division Ski Hut System. This system was created by veterans of the division and is comprised of a series of backcountry ski huts located throughout the Rocky Mountains. These huts are a popular destination for backcountry skiers and provide a safe and comfortable place to stay in the mountains.
10th Mountain Division Memorial
In 1991, the 10th Mountain Division Memorial was erected in Camp Hale. The memorial is a tribute to the men and women of the division who served during World War II and honors their service and sacrifice. The memorial is located near the site of the original Camp Hale and includes a number of artifacts from the war, such as uniforms and weapons.
10th Mountain Division Foundation
The 10th Mountain Division Foundation was established in 1985 to honor the legacy of the division and to support its veterans. The foundation works to preserve and protect the history of the division and to provide support to veterans of the division. They provide financial assistance to veterans and their families, as well as scholarships and other forms of assistance.
10th Mountain Division Reenactment Group
The 10th Mountain Division Reenactment Group is a group of individuals who recreate the history of the 10th Mountain Division. The group is comprised of veterans, historians, and enthusiasts who work to accurately portray the history of the division. Every year, the group holds a reenactment in Leadville, Colorado, to commemorate the formation of the 10th Mountain Division and to honor its veterans.
10th Mountain Division Museum
The 10th Mountain Division Museum is located in Fort Drum, New York, and is dedicated to the history of the 10th Mountain Division. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the war, as well as a library of books and documents related to the division. The museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as lectures and exhibits, to educate the public about the history of the 10th Mountain Division.
Conclusion
The 10th Mountain Division has left an indelible mark on Colorado’s history and culture. From training in the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains to their involvement in World War II, they have become an integral part of the state’s military history. They have also left a lasting legacy in the form of the 10th Mountain Division Ski Hut System, the 10th Mountain Division Memorial, and the 10th Mountain Division Foundation. The 10th Mountain Division Museum provides a place to learn more about the history of the division, and the 10th Mountain Division Reenactment Group helps to keep the history of the division alive. The 10th Mountain Division will always remain an important part of Colorado’s history. The United States Army’s 10th Mountain Division is no stranger to Colorado and its residents. The courageous men and women who serve this esteemed division of the military have long relied on the Rocky Mountains and the communities of Colorado for training and recreation.
The 10th Mountain Division, or the tenth warriors, was founded during the second World War at Camp Hale, Colorado. At the time, Camp Hale was the largest military training facility in the United States. During the war, the 10th Mountain Division trained for mountain warfare and Alpine skiing. The Division proved itself in battle in Italy, where it was the most decorated unit in Europe during World War II.
Since the end of World War II, the 10th Mountain Division has maintained a strong presence in Colorado. The Division’s headquarters is based at Fort Drum, New York, but parts of the Division regularly conduct training in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, particularly in the high alpine terrain near Vail and Breckenridge. Such training is essential for a mountain infantry unit and helps prepare the soldiers for operations in difficult terrain.
In addition to their military duties, the 10th Mountain Division’s troops frequently take advantage of Colorado’s world-class recreation opportunities and enjoy the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. From hiking and fishing in the summer to skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the winter, the 10th Mountain Division soldiers have plenty of outdoor pursuits to occupy their leisure time.
It is no exaggeration to say that the 10th Mountain Division has had a profound impact on the state of Colorado. The Division’s presence here is a testament to the strength and courage of these brave soldiers and a reminder of what they are capable of in the face of adversity. The residents of Colorado are proud to call the 10th Mountain Division members our neighbors and friends.
