Posted 12 years ago
tlmbaran
(136 items)
Found this unframed 9 X 11 photo in one of the many antique stores when I was visiting the Gettysburg battle field 2 years ago. Photo has some damage and crease lines from improper storrage over the years. Seller had it listed "WWI photo" and was priced $20.00...plus everything in his (or her) booth was 10% off. Now, had he/she done her homework, YEA, it IS a WWI photo, but the pleats on the uniform pocket, and the badge on the helmet, and the collar insignia on the officer all say USMC! Rare find. Notice the enlisted man does NOT have collar insignia on his wool uniform (pre 1919), but does have 4 service hash marks on bottom left sleeve. Rank was worn on right sleeve, but is blocked out by radio operators head. Also, helmet from man in the middle, and hat on the man in back ground have an E.G.A (eagle globe & anchor) insignia. As does the hat and collar of the young officer in the foreground on the right. ALSO- the enlisted man with the wool tunic has either rimless eagle snap or (unknown to tell) the RARE USMC snap cartridge belt!!!Also notice pistol lanyard around the neck of the Officer....RARE war time immage, and I snatched it up for my collection!
Thanks for pointing out the interesting details. I would have missed most of them.
Interesting variety of uniform wear, with and without jacket, even with and without tie!
Thanks Chrisnp.....Actually, I JUST noticed the pistol lanyard today myself!
And I agree with the "hodge-podge" uniforms....which makes this an even more authentic photo, where these Marines were not expecting a photo, and probably just hanging out on their down time when all of a sudden "ATTENTION ON DECK!!!" was shouted out! LOL
Your old military photos and uniform collection is great! And your desire to share the history behind them with others is fantastic. I have an uncle that served in the army WWII( 92yrs old ) and has shared very little about it with anyone and his cousin (93 yrs old) that has told many stories of his own WWII experiences. My father did say once that my uncle was one that used a flame thrower so the terrible things which that would involve definately would explain his lack of wanting to sharing his experience.
Thanks NEAT.OLD.STUFF!! Hold on to your familys military history, and try to get as much info as you can, because when they are gone, so is their story!