WW2 U.S 12th Army Group sleeve patch

Early cut edge example in mint condition.
The U.S. 12th Army Group was the largest and most powerful American formation ever fielded in combat, playing a crucial role in the Allied victory in Europe during World War II.

Formed: August 1, 1944
Disbanded: July 12, 1945
Commander: General Omar N. Bradley
Theater: Western Europe (European Theater of Operations – ETO)

Role in WWII

The 12th Army Group was activated in France shortly after the Normandy invasion (D-Day, June 6, 1944). It took over operational control from the British-led 21st Army Group in early August and led the bulk of American ground forces from that point forward.

By VE Day (May 8, 1945), the 12th Army Group controlled:
4 U.S. field armies:
First Army (Courtney Hodges)
Third Army (George S. Patton)
Ninth Army (William H. Simpson)
Fifteenth Army (Leonard T. Gerow)
91 divisions (61 infantry, 20 armored, 10 airborne)
1.3 million soldiers, the largest U.S. fighting force ever assembled under one commander

Major Campaigns
Normandy Breakout (Operation Cobra)
Liberation of Paris
Battle of the Bulge (responding to Germany’s last major offensive)
Crossing the Rhine River (March 1945)
Capture of the Ruhr Pocket
Advance into Central Germany and link-up with Soviet forces

Legacy
• General Bradley, a quiet and methodical leader, was praised for his coordination and management of such a vast force.
• The 12th Army Group was instrumental in defeating Nazi Germany, liberating occupied territories, and ensuring U.S. dominance in the western part of postwar Europe.

Code: 64451