With the outbreak of World War II, the 96th Division was ordered into active military service on August 15, 1942 at Camp Adair, Oregon.
Major General James Bradley was chosen to command the unit. At the ceremony, he stated, "We of the 96th Division have a clearly defined task. It is to become a well-trained combat division in the shortest possible time. We must keep our eyes; we must keep our thoughts on that goal. Any time spent on efforts which do not lead to the goal is time wasted ? and we have no time to waste."
"This is the kind of a division we are going to be: well trained, tough physically and mentally, ready and eager to fight, not for our personal glory, but for the honor of the division and the service of our country."
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