On July 15, 1942 in compliance with authority contained in an Executive Order dated February 6, 1942, subject: “ordering certain organizations and units into active Military Service of the United States, and pursuant to Paragraph 1, Mimeograph letter from the Adjutant General dated April 1, 1942 (AG 320.2 Org Res) (3-19-42) (MR-M-GN), and Section II, General Orders No 26, Headquarters Corps Area,  dated June 1., 1942, the 353d Infantry was activated as part of the 89th Division at Camp Carson, Colorado.

           Camp Carson being situated in the heart of the mid-western area of the United States with ideal climate and terrain, was highly suitable for the training of combat troops. In comparison with the old 89th Division of World War I, the location was the same but the personnel making up the Division and Regiment were different. Those of the old units coming from the mid-western area entirely, while those making up the new units came from most every state of the Union.

           Pursuant to authority contained in Paragraph 8, Special Orders No 1, Headquarters 89th Infantry Division dated July 15, 1942, Colonel Maurice L. Miller was assigned as Commanding Officer of the 353d Infantry.

           Colonel Miller with some of the Officers and Enlisted Cadre assigned to the Regiment arrived some thirty (30) days prior to activation. The Regiment along with the other two Regiments of the Division were assigned temporary quarters in the area later occupied by the 353d Regiment. This was due to the camp being unfinished at the time of arrival. The Staff appointed per Paragraph 2, General Order #1, Hq 353d Infantry dated July 15, 1942 is as follows: