71st Infantry Division – World War II – Europe

Eye-catching commemoration of a soldier’s experience in WWII.

The history of the 71st Infantry Division in Europe during World War II is vividly illustrated on this map, drawn by technicians Emil Albrecht and Roland Wille. A simple base map shows the prewar borders brightly and individually colored, while the route of the unit cuts across France, Germany and Austria in a black hashed line. A dated list of events in the lower left adds context to the regional operations and various engagements.

Pointed and often humorous illustrations referencing the experiences of the soldiers can be seen throughout the image; including lustful G.I.s ogling frauleins, piles of smelly manure, free beer, surrendering German soldiers and the ever-present “Off-Limits” signs. Four diagrams (including one disguised as laundry out to dry) show the various units that made up the division, including the 635th Tank Destroyer Battalion. The 635th is also referenced in a manuscript note in the center of the image, which indicates the battalion joined the 71st Division at Bitche, France.

The map was previously owned by a member of this unit, as evidenced by over 70 signatures on the verso of the sheet. The 635th originally hailed from Kansas, and a number of Jayhawkers can be seen amongst the addresses; as well as soldiers from Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle and New York. In addition to commemorating the action undertaken by the 71st division during the war, this unique map also served as a one-of-a-kind souvenir for one of its veterans.