When the 3d Division went overseas, there were three bands: that of the 7th Infantry, 15th Infantry, and Division Artillery. All rendered fine service with their organizations during the campaigns in Africa, Sicily, and Southern Italy. Late in 1943, the War Department directed that infantry divisions have one band to be formed from two existing bands. Accordingly, the Division Band was activated on 1 January 1944, at Pozzuoli, Italy. The best men were taken from the three bands, and the balance transferred out in February.

The new organization came under the leadership of Chief Warrant Officer Eugene Kusmiak of the 15th Infantry Band and Warrant Officer junior Grade Milton L. Bronstein, of the 7th Infantry Band. The Sergeant Major from activation throughout the war was Technical Sergeant-later Master Sergeant William Feigel, who had served more than five "hitches" in the 7th Infantry Band.

Initially a small ensemble was sent to the Anzio beachhead to entertain the troops, but eventually the entire band came there, and after that the band remained close to the Division, playing at formations and ceremonies and providing music at rest camps, hospitals, and social affairs.