This photo by Mole and Thomas depicts members of the 27th Infantry Division forming a “living” version of their distinctive “NYD” (New York Division) insignia. It was taken March 18, 1919 shortly after their return to the United States.
The 27th Division was involved in heavy fighting on the Western Front during World War I, and they are known for helping to break the Hindenburg line. This was one of the last lines of defense for the Germans, and the Armistice ending the war followed soon after.
The division was inactivated about a month after this photo was taken until the outbreak of World War II.