The 5 Most Valuable Clone Divisions

The valiant clone troopers of the Grand Army of the Republic fought and died for democracy and freedom throughout the course of the Clone War. Combating the tyranny and loathsome battlefield tactics of the Separatists, the GAR sought to primarily keep innocents safe from harm while simultaneously defending Republic interests across the galaxy. To this end, a short list of clone battalions was drawn up, the regiments with the greatest successes, not only in casualties inflicted, but also reflecting unique styles and strategies of each unit. Here we will be examining some of the most effective clone units, the personnel that made them effective, and what strategies and armaments made them unique. This article will be focusing on larger strategic forces, so smaller elite units such as Clone Force 99 or Delta Squad will not be featured.

327th Star Corps

This select unit of troopers was built to mobilize quickly and dig in tight around rural positions. Capable of running long term patrols with little to no support, air cover, or armor support, the 327th prided themselves on being some of the most independent and creative clone units in the GAR. The Star Corps served in notable battles including multiple campaigns on Felucia, a wildly alien and dangerous world home to bloodthirsty beasts and valuable resources for the war effort. They also helped defend a village of Lurmen from overwhelming Separatist odds. Led by the valiant Jedi General Aayla Secura and Clone Commander Bly, the 327th often faced battle droids far outnumber their own troopers, but with thorough strategic planning, and strong leadership, they were able to win the day. Known for their pale yellow markings on their armor, the 327th was also often equipped with kamas to protect from environmental hazards, as well as helmet mounted macrobinoculars to scout treacherous terrain ahead.

41st Elite Corps

Under the command of General Luminara Unduli, and her Padawan learner, Commander Barriss Offee, the 41st Elire Corps were known for receiving unusual and unorthodox assignments. One of their earliest deployments was to arrest and securely transport Separatist leader Nute Gunray back to Coruscant for trial. Unfortunately, due to a traitor in their midst, Green Company's defensive positions were compromised and Nute Gunray was secured by Separatist assassin, Asajj Ventress. The 41st specialized in supporting friendly armor and destroying enemy tanks, especially in an urban setting. As a result, the 41st were some of the first troopers called up to defend the capital when Separatist ships arrived in the skies of Coruscant. After the Landing at Point Rain during the Second Battle of Geonosis, the 41st were dispatched to reinforce General Skywalker's forces and ultimately were key to the defeat of Poggle the Lesser and the fall of the Geonosis droid foundries. The 41st were also composed of a Scout Battalion and an elite Ranger Battalion, both of which were deployed to Kashyyyk to stop the droid attack on the Wookiees.

104th Battalion

Also known as the Wolf Pack or Plo's Bros, the 104th Battalion was often deployed to protect civilians in harm's way and prevent collateral damage. Led by Jedi Master Plo Koon, and his right hand man, Clone Commander Wolffe, the 104th was one of the most versatile units of the clone army. Capable of fighting and winning planet-side and in space, the Wolf Pack consisted of some of the most accomplished Jet Troopers in the GAR with mission times and efficiency that became a gold standard in the army. The 104th were often called upon to extract pinned down or overwhelmed units from hot landing zones, blasting their way in and providing cover fire until everyone was safely aboard the LAATs. During the course of the Clone War, the Wolf Pack saved Anakin, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan in this manner on more than one occasion. Given this reputation, the battalion was also called upon to serve as the extraction team during the rescue of Jedi Master Evan Piell from the Citadel.

212th Attack Battalion

The most decorated unit of the 7th Star Corps, the 212th Attack Battalion prided themselves on leading the way. Specializing in head-on attacks, the 212th was called upon any time a Separatist controlled defensive position was particularly fortified. Utilizing "fire and maneuver" tactics as well as support from heavy armor such as the AT-TE, the 212th was rarely turned away from their objective. Clone Marshal Commander Cody regarded the 212th as his personal pride and joy and took their training and battlefield performance very personally. His ARC training came in handy as a combat instructor and the battalion flourished under his command. Led by General Kenobi, the 212th came into direct conflict with General Grievous on multiple occasions, including the Battle of Utapau, in which Grievous was defeated. The 212th also encompassed Ghost Company, an elite unit that utilized AT-RTs to rapidly close with, and deal extreme damage to the enemy. This company was key to the Republic's victory on Ryloth.

501st Legion

The Boys in Blue themselves, the 501st Legion, is arguably the most valuable garrison in the Grand Army of the Republic. Embracing the unconventional, the 501st rarely lost a battle under the command of General Anakin Skywalker, and his Padawan, Ahsoka Tano. The adventures of the Legion had been well documented in the Clone Wars animated show as well as the classic Star Wars Battlefront II videogame, although the game is now regarded as Legends. Possibly the best display of the 501st mettle took place during the Battle of Umbara when they were placed under command of the despicable General Krell. The General's tactics, while effective, required troopers under his command to take the most direct route, and often most heavily fortified, path to their objective. The 501st routinely utilized specially trained ARC Troopers to accomplish their objectives, often using their main force as a diversion to allow their specialist squads to strike at key objectives behind enemy lines. Captain Rex, the clone leader of the 501st, displayed unmatched bravery, creativity, and prowess on the battlefield, earning him respect and admiration from his fellow troopers as well as the Jedi.

Written By Weston Erickson

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