[WWII Route Map of the 5th Armored Division]

Following the 5th AD across the ETO during World War II.

This somewhat simple map of southern England and northwestern Europe traces the route of the 5th Armored Division during the Second World War. The pastel colors, lack of pictorial elements, and straightforward content do little to exaggerate the division’s significant contributions to Allied victory.

Picking up from Liverpool, the 5th AD traveled through several training locations before crossing the English Channel to Normandy in late July 1944. A bloody and prolonged march through France was followed by heavy fighting in the Hurtgen Forest. In February 1945, the 5th functioned as the spearhead of the XIII Corps drive across the Rhine River. Less than fifty miles from Berlin, the unit was ordered back to help with mopping up remaining German units until V-E Day. Approximate movements can be followed across the map, which also labels important towns and engagements.

The image was designed by Robert E. Hoylman of the 5th Armored Division. Published in Gotha by the historic firm of Justus Perthes in 1945.