Military Endeavors Spotlight: Major General Edwin "Forrest" Harding's Army Career Profile
Major General Edwin "Forrest" Harding, a distinguished U.S. Army officer, played a significant role during the interwar period, the years between World War I and World War II. Although specific details about his biography and military career are not extensively documented, Harding is best known for his leadership roles within the U.S. Army.
One of Harding's most notable contributions was his focus on training and preparedness as the U.S. Army adapted to the peacetime environment. In the 1930s, he renewed Fort Benning's Mailing List and the Infantry Association's Infantry Journal, helping the Army to adapt to the changing character of war.
During World War II, Harding commanded the 32nd Infantry Division in the critical Battle of Buna, a part of an intense jungle campaign to liberate Papua New Guinea from Imperial Japanese occupation. The battle was marked by logistical challenges, such as piecemeal commitments of troops and the inability to bring along necessary equipment. Conditions were harsh, with troops suffering from dysentery, malnutrition, long marches through swamps, poor supply, and Japanese fire. Despite these adversities, Harding's troops, though heavy casualties, persevered.
Tragically, malaria and malnourishment took a heavy toll on the 32nd Infantry Division during the Battle of Buna, with 8,659 of the 14,646 troops succumbing to the disease following the battle.
Lt. General Robert L. Eichelberger, a West Point classmate of Harding, inspected the situation and found the division combat ineffective. Eichelberger eventually relieved Harding, replacing him with the division artillery commander. However, Eichelberger would later capture Buna, albeit at great loss of life.
Despite his controversial dismissal, Harding was renowned for his clever and wide-ranging intellect throughout his career. He served as a mentor and teacher to many, including George C. Marshall and Omar Bradley.
The Battle of Buna was a turning point in the Pacific War, and the Infantry Journal, under Harding's leadership, became a must-read for military professionals. Subscriptions surged to nearly ten thousand within four years, reflecting the growing interest in the journal's insightful articles on infantry operations.
In conclusion, Major General Edwin "Forrest" Harding's contributions to the U.S. Army, particularly during the interwar period and the Battle of Buna, have left a lasting impact on military history. Though specific details about his career may not be widely available, his legacy as a dedicated and innovative military leader remains undeniable.
- Major General Edwin "Forrest" Harding, during the interwar period, emphasized military education, focusing on training and preparedness as the U.S. Army adapted to the peacetime environment.
- In the 1930s, Harding, through his leadership roles, renewed Fort Benning's Mailing List and the Infantry Association's Infantry Journal, enhancing the Army's ability to adapt to the changing character of war.
- Commanding the 32nd Infantry Division during World War II, Harding demonstrated strong military leadership in the critical Battle of Buna, even though warfare presented logistical challenges and the division faced heavy casualties.
- Post-Battle of Buna, Harding's insights were highly valued in the military community, making the Infantry Journal, under his leadership, a significant resource for military professionals, with subscriptions increasing significantly.
