Hi Ben, Hi Bob,
Here is a photo of a paratrooper in south France, as you
will see he is wearing the regular arm band flag given to each paratroopers in
Italy few days before the invasion. the stars and stripes are on the side of the
arm. So if the arm band flag turn around the arm (and I think that many things
turn around and around when you jump out of a plane !..) it possible that you
see the white side of it. Many paratroopers didn't like it, and the security pin
pull on the jacket so they decide to cut the band, and during the long
hours waiting to load in Italy they stitch it on their jacket. On the airborne
task force secret document, the staff decide that only the flag have to be worn
in operation, no regiments or divisions patches like in normandy. (If my
knowledges are good...
warmest regards to all of you .. and hope to see you in
Portland if our passports and visa are ready, back from Paris. Many many tanks
to all our friends who sent us a letter supporting what we are doing to
perpetuate the memory of the 517th, and motivate the government to let's us go
!...
Jean Michel & Eric, Airborne
museum Le MUY France
Bob Hart
Ben, The armband shown was issued to everyone for Southern
France jump. Has an American flag on it. I still have mine. Bob Hart Co.
D