The Campaign of Western Europe “D”-Day through “V-E” Day 6 June 1944 – 8 May 1945 102nd Cavalry Group Mecz.

Unique commemoration of the 102nd Mechanized Cavalry Group during World War II.

This interesting folding pamphlet was published shortly after V-E Day to memorialize the efforts of the 102nd Mechanized Cavalry Group in the European Theater. The front cover lists the insignia of the various armies and corps to which the unit was attached over the duration of the conflict. A map highlights their route across Europe, starting with embarkation on Omaha Beach on D+2 and ending with victory in Czechoslovakia. The various campaigns are boldly labeled across the page and dates are overlaid in red, where applicable.

Several ‘firsts’ are also noted, though the claims are suspect. Examples include the first American unit in Paris (actually the 4th Infantry Division) and the first unit of the American Army to enter Germany (actually a patrol from the 5th Armored Division). The verso of the sheet presents a comprehensive personnel index, organized by squadron. Various abbreviations identify awards of merit and the known fate of each soldier. As far as I am aware, the recording of this detailed information is unique among commemorative unit maps.