My Dad's Medals...

Some months back I filed a request for any of  my Dad's WW2 service records available. Not much is onhand due to a fire in the early 70s that destroyed many servicemens records. I did get these medals which I was not aware of and am pleased with the service of our government which provided them free of charge.

Starting at bottom left is the combat infantryman's badge. Above that is the European-African-middle Eastern Campaign medal with two clusters which mean he got it three times. Middle is the Bronze Star. Don't know if there is a particular incident associated with this but it basically means the recipient was getting shot at. Next is WW2 Victory medal, below that is Good Conduct and the lapel pin is for good service.

My Dad never said much about the war. There is an author who writes books on the 29th infantry division which was my Dad's division. The guys in the movie Saving Private Ryan all have 29th patches on their uniforms.  From the history I have read my Dad's unit "F" company of the 116th battalion was in the thick of things when U.S. troops figured out how to modify a tank to punch through the Normandy hedgerows. I have found mention of him in a data base of 29th morning reports, reported for duty, MIA, hospital with a non battle injury that took place over June and July 1944. That was a few tough weeks. Many did not survive. I am thankful my Dad did.

I have put photos of him in uniform on these pages before. The black and white photo I choose today was in with his bare few mementos. It's tents in a muddy field. Could be Europe or it could simply be Tyler Texas where he did his basic training. Either place was a hell of it's own. Thanks to all.