In order to consolidate all Divisions of the VIII Army Corps in nearby locations, the 45th Division moved from Ft. Sill, Oklahoma to Camp Barkeley, Texas  starting at the end of February through early March of 1941.  Camp Barkeley, then located about 10 miles southwest of Abilene, was named after Texas soldier who died in WWI.  It was initially set up as a "tent" camp  for training purposes, but in the Fall of 1941 was transformed into a more permanent base with frame buildings.  Affectionately known as the "only place on earth where you can stand in mud up to your ankles and have dust blow in your face."

Camp Barkeley Booklet Photos

Scrapbook

In May and June, more maneuvers were held near Brownwood Texas involving the 2nd and 36th division.  The 45th held it's own.

In the summer heat of August, the division made its way to the area around Mansfield, Louisiana for more maneuvers traveling partly by truck and partly by foot ("hardening marches").  The maneuvers themselves consisted of more movement by vehicle and foot to other parts of Louisiana.  20-plus mile marches in 100-plus degree temperatures (not to mention the humidity...) were not uncommon.  The maneuver was against other Third Army forces ... - under construction -