This section will showcase our named WWII U.S. Uniforms & groups that we have acquired from the veteran directly or from a family member. We are hoping to expand this section as we are always adding groups to our collection. Please CONTACT US if you have uniform or grouping that you would like us to display here.

Chester E. Rumbold – S/SGT 392nd Bomb Group 577th Bomb Squadron

William H Williams – S/SGT 303rd Bomb Group 358th Bomb Squadron

William was a member of the famous 303rd Bomb Group “Hells Angels” 358th Bomb Squadron . On July 23, 1944, William was part of Cecil W. Millers crew on mission #210 to Creil, France aboard B-17 G#42-97622 Paper Doll. Upon return from their mission, three of the four engines were out and the fourth was on and off. The plane was out of gas and the decision was made to bail out while crossing the English coast. William and six other crew members parachuted safely. The pilot, Cecil W. Miller was killed on landing when his chute did not deploy properly. Tail Gunner William A. Zweck’s chute caught in the B-17’s elevators and he was killed on impact. We acquired William’s A2 jacket many years ago and that is all we have from his collection. His name and service number are written inside the jacket. His picture and crew members are pictured below. He is wearing this jacket in the picture.

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Shelby L. Spradlin – S/Sgt 17th & 82nd Airborne Division

Shelby enlisted 9 Oct 1942 and entered active service on 5 Apr 43 in Blacksburg, VA. After basic training, Shelby was sent to England in August of 1944 with the 17th A/B Division. As the war was nearing its end, Shelby was one of 16000 paratroopers who participated in “Operation Varsity” which ended up being the last airborne drop of WWII on March 24, 1945. Shelby’s unit participated in 3 battles/campaigns: Ardennes, Rhineland & Central Europe. At the end of WWII in Europe, Shelby was transferred to the 82nd Airborne to assist with the occupation of Berlin. He finally returned home on 3 Jan 46.
His Decorations and Citations from his service include: Good Conduct Medal, American theater ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon (with 3 battle stars), the World War II Victory Ribbon, the French Fourragere lanyard and the Netherlands lanyard. His military qualifications include: Glider Badge and Parachutists Badge. During training, he achieved marksman status for the 03 Rifle, Carbine Rifle and BAR. We acquired this amazing grouping from his son. Please enjoy the pictures below.

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