128^th Infantry Regiment

The 128th Infantry Regiment, a Wisconsin National Guard unit assigned to the 32nd Infantry Division, entered federal service on October 15, 1940, and reached Australia in May 1942. It moved to Port Moresby in September and entered the Papuan campaign before the rest of the division was fully committed. One battalion crossed the Owen Stanley Mountains toward Jaure, while other elements moved by air and coastal craft to the Buna front. In November 1942 the regiment attacked toward Cape Endaiadere, Duropa Plantation, Simemi Creek, and Buna Mission under severe supply strain after Japanese air attacks destroyed coastal craft and heavy equipment.

During the Buna fighting, the 128th's 1st and 3rd Battalions pressed the eastern front, while the 2nd Battalion was diverted toward Buna Mission after the 126th Infantry was drawn elsewhere. Company F secured the Siwori Creek crossing and helped cut communications between Buna and Sanananda. At the turn of the year, 128th companies joined the final envelopment of Buna Mission with the 127th Infantry. The regiment later joined the Saidor operation on January 19, 1944, drove west against retreating Japanese forces, and in the Aitape area held the Center Sector after release from ALAMO Force Reserve.

On Leyte the regiment landed on November 14, 1944 and relieved the 21st Infantry on Breakneck Ridge two days later. It fought at Corkscrew Ridge, pushed south astride Highway 2, and captured Limon on November 22, then held and patrolled the area while other division elements fought toward Lonoy. Late in December it advanced west with the 127th Infantry and reached ground overlooking Tabango and Campopo Bays. On Luzon the 128th relieved the depleted 127th Infantry on the Villa Verde Trail in late March 1945. It fought through Hills 503, 504, and 505, secured Salacsac Pass No. 2, returned in May to clear Salacsac Pass No. 1, and helped take Imugan.