Monument Honoring the Unsung Heroes of WWII

Honoring the Unsung Heroes of WWII

Did you know that many of our fathers and grandfathers served as tankers during World War II, but not all fought in the spotlight? While 16 tank divisions were established, a remarkable 50 General Headquarters (GHQ) tank battalions were created to support infantry divisions lacking direct firepower. These often-overlooked units played a crucial role in securing Allied victory across diverse battlefields, from North Africa to the South Pacific.

Unlike their counterparts in tank divisions, GHQ tank battalions faced numerous challenges—poor logistical support, a shortage of trained personnel, and limited understanding from infantry units about how to effectively utilize their capabilities. Despite these obstacles, they bravely eliminated enemy strongholds and armored threats, traveling alongside infantry troops at their pace, and ensuring the safety of countless soldiers.

Today, we have the chance to honor these valiant tankers. The National Armor and Cavalry Heritage Foundation is raising funds to erect a fitting memorial at the Armor and Cavalry Heritage Park at Fort Moore, Georgia. This monument will serve as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of the more than fifty GHQ tank battalions and will feature the inscription:

“LEST WE FORGET” 

Dedicated to the brave men who served in the more than fifty General Headquarters (GHQ) Tank Battalions in World War II. Unlike their more glamorous cousins in tank divisions, they were created to provide direct fire support for the many straight-leg infantry divisions that lacked a permanent armor unit.  Usually traveling at the speed of the infantry doughboy, these GHQ tank battalions eliminated enemy bunkers, machine gun nests, and anti-tank emplacements, as well as light armored vehicles and, when necessary, enemy tanks.  They were challenged by poor logistical support, a shortage of trained replacements, and a general lack of knowledge by their infantry hosts of proper armor employment.  They nevertheless were vital components in the final allied victory and fought on all the major battlefields in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, Western Europe and the South Pacific.  From the lessons they learned the hard way came the combined arms teams of today’s modern army.

It’s time to recognize the contributions of these unsung heroes. Let’s ensure their legacy is not forgotten! Consider making a donation to the GHQ Tank Battalion Monument Fund. Your support can help bring this memorial to life and honor the bravery of those who fought valiantly in the shadows.

Together, we can honor the past and celebrate the spirit of these remarkable tankers. Let’s make sure their sacrifices are remembered!