The Bald Eagle mascot “Old Abe” led the 8th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry into 36 Civil War battles against the Confederacy. The Battle of Fredericktown on October 21, 1861, was the first battle on the War Eagle Trail, which passes through Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana. When the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) was activated in August 1942, it adopted “Old Abe,” the Wisconsin War Eagle, as its mascot. Since World War II, these soldiers, nicknamed the “Screaming Eagles,” are recognized worldwide for their dedication, courage and valor.