Lost Battalion (World War II)

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"The Lost Battalion" refers to the 1st Battalion, 141st Infantry (36th Infantry Division, originally Texas National Guard), which was surrounded by German forces in the Vosges Mountains on 24 October 1944.

Two failed attempts were made to rescue the unit. The third attempt was conducted by the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a unit composed of mostly Japanese Americans. In five days of battle, from 26 October to 30 October 1944, the 442nd broke though German defenses and rescued about 230 men. The 442nd suffered over 400 casualties — nearly half of its roster. I Company went in with 185 men; eight walked out unhurt. K Company began with 186 men; 17 walked out.

The 442nd is the most decorated unit in U.S. military history for its size and length of service, with its component 100th Infantry Battalion earning the nickname “The Purple Heart Battalion.”