The 47th Infantry Division, also known as the “Viking Division”, was a National Guard division composed primarily of units from Minnesota and North Dakota. It was established in 1946, shortly after World War II ended, and therefore did not serve in World War II. The division was organized as part of the postwar reorganization of the U.S. Army National Guard and carried forward the lineage and heritage of earlier state units that had served in World War II, including elements of the 34th Infantry Division. The Viking Division was so named to reflect the strong Scandinavian-American heritage of the Upper Midwest—especially the large number of Norwegians, Swedes, and Danes who populated Minnesota and North Dakota. While the 47th Infantry Division itself did not participate in combat during World War II, its constituent units and the communities that formed its ranks had deep ties to the wartime service of National Guard soldiers in earlier divisions. During the Korean War, the division was federalized in 1951 and served on active duty at Camp Rucker, Alabama, for training and readiness purposes, though it did not deploy overseas. The 47th remained part of the National Guard through the Cold War, serving in a strategic reserve role until it was inactivated in 1991, with many of its elements folded into the 34th Infantry Division. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com
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