John Matthew Devine (1895-1971) was born in Providence, Rhode Island. He commissioned in the field artillery from West Point in 1917 and served in World War I with the 3rd Field Artillery in the American Expeditionary Forces. He earned an M.S. from Yale University in 1922 and graduated from Command and General Staff School in 1938. From 1938 to 1940, he taught military science and tactics at Yale. During World War II, he rose through the ranks to brigadier general in May 1942 and major general in May 1945. He served as deputy chief of staff for intelligence, then chief of staff of I Armored Corps from 1941 to 1942. Between 1943 and 1946, he commanded the 90th Division Artillery, 8th Armored Division, and 2nd Armored Division. His postwar assignments included chief of staff of Army Ground Forces in 1948 and commanding general of 1st Calvary Division, from 1949 to 1950. He retired in 1952. During his career, he received the Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, and two Bronze Stars.
From the description of Devine, John M. (John Matthew), 1895-1971 (U.S. National Archives and Records Administration). naId: 10609472
