The Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization dedicated to commemorating the deeds, sacrifices and traditions of the 42nd Infantry (Rainbow) Division through memorials, education and preserving the Legacy of the 42nd Division.
750+
Members
1,000
Memorials Maintained
$210,000
Scholarship $ Awarded
Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation
On April 6, 1917, the United States Congress declared war on the German Empire and entered the Great War. In the rush to mobilize troops, individual states competed with each other for the honor to be the first to send their National Guard units into combat. Secretary of War Newton D. Baker authorized the organization of a Division made up of National Guard units from 26 different states and the District of Columbia.
Douglas MacArthur, who at the time was a Major working at the office of the Secretary of War, is credited with saying “The 42nd Division stretches like a Rainbow from one end of America to the other.” MacArthur was instrumental in the formation of the Division and was appointed its Chief of Staff and promoted to Colonel.
The 42nd (Rainbow) Division was activated in August 1917 and arrived in France that November. During its time in France the Rainbow Division participated in six major campaigns and suffered over 50% casualties.
Following the end of WWI, the officers of the Rainbow Division formed the Rainbow Division Veterans Association, which eventually became the Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation.
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Our History
The Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation is a non-profit corporation dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 42nd Division and its Soldiers. We have a rich history dating back to the 42nd Division’s inception in WWI, and we work to honor the soldiers who fought in this unit, as well as provide support to RDVF families.
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Join the RDVF to ensure our mission is achieved.
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History
The RDVF has deep roots in our nation's military history, dating back to the 42nd Division's participation in WWI and WWII. Our organization honors these soldiers and the many members of the 42nd division that have served through the present day.
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Scholarships
The RDVF offers a variety of scholarships to college-age students every year. Find out about the scholarships available, eligibility criteria and how to apply.
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Memorials
The establishment of 42nd Division memorials is an important part of the Foundation's work. These memorials highlight the accomplishments and sacrifices of many Rainbow Soldiers from WWI through the present day.
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Making a Difference
From scholarships to memorials to stories highlighting the contributions and accomplishments of Rainbow Division Soldiers throughout the years, our organization works hard to make a difference in the lives of our members and their families.
Support our brave heroes
Your membership contributions help maintain our outstanding scholarship fund and memorials worldwide.
Active and Retired Military
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Get involved and become a member
There are three levels of membership in the RDVF: Veteran Member, Legacy Member and Associate Member. Find out which type of membership you qualify for and how you can make a difference in our organization.
Upcoming Events
The RDVF supports a variety of events around the world each year. Find out how you can participate.
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Help us support our mission and vision of preserving our past history and continuing to pass on the legacies of Rainbow Soldiers in the future.
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