Collins, Harry J.

Harry John Collins (1895-1963) was born in Chicago, Illinois. He commissioned in the infantry in 1917. He graduated from Command and General Staff School in 1934 and the Army War College a year later. From 1939 to 1942, he was a staff officer with the 6th Division and then the IV Corps. During World War II, he also served as commanding officer of the 354th Infantry Division and the 89th Division in 1942. After his promotion to brigadier general in October 1942, he became assistant division commander of the 99th Division. He made major general in September 1943. From 1943 to 1946, he was commanding general of the 42nd (Rainbow) Division. His post-war assignments included commanding general of the 2nd Infantry Division, from 1948 to 1950, 8th Division, from 1951 to 1952, and 31st Infantry Division, from 1952 until his retirement in September 1954. His decorations included the Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Commendation Ribbon.