Frequently Asked Questions

The 25th Infantry Division Association (TLA) is the official veterans organization for anyone who served with the 25th Infantry Division. Founded after World War II, the Association preserves the legacy and camaraderie of the Division and connects veterans across all eras of service.

Anyone who served with the 25th Infantry Division at any time is eligible, including soldiers assigned to units attached to or serving with the Division. Active duty soldiers currently serving with the 25th ID are also welcome. Associate memberships are available for family members and supporters.

Annual membership is $25 per year. You can also earn a free annual membership by purchasing $25 or more from the TLA Shop. Apply for membership online.

Tropic Lightning Flashes is our quarterly magazine, published continuously for over 75 years. Each issue includes division news, veteran stories, historical articles, Mail Call, Roll Call, Taps (memorial notices), reunion planning, and more. All members receive the magazine as part of their membership. View past issues.

The 2026 reunion will be held in Hawaii, September 27 through October 4, 2026. Every five years the reunion returns to Schofield Barracks. Visit the Events page for details and registration information as it becomes available.

Children and grandchildren of active TLA members (minimum 12 months membership) are eligible for annual educational scholarships. Applications are due by March each year. Visit the Scholarships page for full requirements and application details.

You can honor a 25th Infantry Division soldier by purchasing an engraved brick placed at our memorials at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii or Fort Benning, Georgia. Visit the Memorial Bricks page for details and to purchase.

Donations support TLA programs including scholarships, memorials, soldier support, archives, and the Flashes magazine. All donations are tax-deductible. Make a donation to TLA. For those 70 1/2 or older, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs are also accepted.

The TLA archives are housed at the George C. Marshall Foundation in Lexington, Virginia. The collection includes maps, photographs, combat reports, uniforms, and other historical materials. Visit the Archives page for details on visiting or donating materials.

We'll do our best. Please contact us with as much detail as possible (name, rank, unit, dates of service) and we'll try to connect you with the right resources.

The nickname was earned in the Pacific Theater during World War II for the Division's rapid and decisive combat operations in tropical environments. The Division's shoulder sleeve insignia features a taro leaf with a lightning bolt, representing the speed and power of Tropic Lightning soldiers.

The TLA has chapters across the country. Visit the Officers & Chapters page for current chapter contacts. If there's no chapter in your area and you'd like to start one, contact us.