Fact Check: In a lot of cases, you were stuck out there another few months to over a year on occupation duty as well. The last western front Americans to return home didn't hit American soil until March of 1920.

Claim Analysis: American Troop Presence in Europe Post-World War I

1. Introduction

The claim in question states that many American soldiers were "stuck out there another few months to over a year on occupation duty" after World War I, with the last troops returning to the United States in March 1920. This assertion raises questions about the duration of U.S. military presence in Europe following the war and the timeline of troop withdrawals.

2. What We Know

The timeline of American troop withdrawals from Europe after World War I is complex. Here are some key points supported by various sources:

• Combat Troops Withdrawal: The last American combat units left France in September 1919, shortly after the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in June 1919 8. However, this did not mark the end of American military presence in Europe.

• Occupation Duty: American soldiers continued to serve in occupation duties in Germany after the combat troops returned. The U.S. was part of the Allied occupation of Germany, which lasted until 1923 1.

• Return Timeline: According to historical accounts, while most soldiers returned home by early 1920, some remained in Germany for occupation duty until the last troops were withdrawn in 1923 110. The specific claim that the last western front Americans returned home in March 1920 may refer to a subset of troops, but comprehensive data on the exact dates for all units is less clear.

• Presidential Orders: President Warren G. Harding ordered the return of U.S. troops from Germany in January 1921, indicating that some troops were still stationed there well into the following year 9.

3. Analysis

The claim that American troops were "stuck out there another few months to over a year on occupation duty" is partially supported by historical records. However, the assertion that the last troops returned in March 1920 lacks specificity and may not encompass all American forces involved in occupation duties.

Source Evaluation:

• Government Publications: Source 1 is a government document that provides a detailed overview of American military involvement post-WWI. Government publications are generally reliable but can sometimes lack comprehensive detail depending on the focus of the document.

• Historical Exhibits: Source 2 is an educational exhibit that may provide context but does not specifically address troop withdrawal timelines, making it less useful for verifying the claim.

• Wikipedia Articles: Sources 6 and 7 offer general historical context but should be approached with caution as they can be edited by anyone and may not always reflect the most accurate information.

• History.com: Source 9 is a reputable site known for historical accuracy, but it is essential to cross-reference its claims with primary sources or academic publications for verification.

• National Museum of the USAF: Source 10 provides factual information about the occupation of Germany and the timeline of troop withdrawals, making it a credible source for understanding the context of American military presence in Europe.

Conflicts of Interest:

While most sources appear to be neutral, it is essential to consider that historical narratives can be influenced by national pride or political agendas, especially in government publications or educational exhibits.

Methodology and Evidence:

The claim's validity hinges on the specific definitions of "occupation duty" and the timeline of troop withdrawals. Additional detailed records from military archives or firsthand accounts from soldiers could provide more clarity on the exact dates and circumstances of troop returns.

4. Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that many American soldiers were "stuck out there another few months to over a year on occupation duty" after World War I is partially substantiated by historical evidence. While it is accurate that American troops remained in Europe for occupation duties after combat units returned, the assertion that the last troops returned in March 1920 lacks specificity and may not apply to all units involved. The timeline of troop withdrawals is complex, with some soldiers remaining in Germany until 1923, and the exact dates for all units are not fully documented.

It is important to note that while the claim captures a significant aspect of American military history, it oversimplifies the situation by not accounting for the varied experiences of different units and the lack of comprehensive data on troop movements. The evidence available does not provide a definitive answer, highlighting the need for further research into military records and firsthand accounts.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the nuances of historical claims, as the context and details can significantly affect the interpretation of events.

5. Sources

1. OCCUPATION AND DEMOBILIZATION. Retrieved from govinfo.gov
2. Washington on the Western Front: At Home and Over There. Retrieved from lib.washington.edu
3. The History Division and Change in the Marine Corps - MCU. Retrieved from usmcu.edu
4. With "Spartan Courage and Marine Grit". Retrieved from usmcu.edu
5. The American Home Front and World War II. Retrieved from nps.gov
6. Western Front (World War I). Retrieved from wikipedia.org
7. United States in World War I. Retrieved from wikipedia.org
8. Coming Home - How WWI Changed America. Retrieved from wwichangedus.org
9. President Harding orders U.S. troops home from Germany. Retrieved from history.com
10. Occupation of Germany - National Museum of the USAF. Retrieved from nationalmuseum.af.mil