Former 140th Infantry Regiment plans biannual reunion

~ The regiment can trace its heritage back to the Civil War.

The 140th Infantry Regiment, Missouri Army National Guard will hold a biannual reunion at 6 p.m. March 23 at the Knights of Columbus Hall north of Jackson. The program and meal begin at 7 p.m. CSM Billy J. Adams (Ret.) will speak about his experiences assisting in the training of the Iraqi police forces.

Former members of the 140th who may not have received a written invitation are cordially invited to attend. Notify Robert Clifton by calling 243-8844 or mail him at 2705 Hilltop Drive, Jackson, no later than March 15.

This regiment preceded the 1140th. Initially the regiment was made up of men from Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Sikeston, Charleston and other Southeast Missouri communities, with headquarters in Cape Girardeau.

The regiment can trace its heritage back to the 6th Missouri Infantry that fought in the Civil War on the side of the South, Missouri being a border state during that conflict. It later saw service in the Spanish-American War and was officially placed on the active duty role of the U.S. Army on Aug. 5, 1917. The regiment served in World War I and saw combat at Alsace Lorraine and Meuse Argonne in France.

During World War II the unit became a part of the 35th Infantry Division. It was fortunate not to have to serve in any overseas campaigns, being assigned coastal security duties on the West Coast. Upon deactivation from federal status, the regiment again became the 140th Infantry Regiment, Missouri Army National Guard and assumed its role as a premiere National Guard unit within the state.

The 140th Infantry Regiment was deactivated in 1963 and, with the casing of its colors, became a part of Southeast Missouri history.