Original Items: Only One Grouping Available. This is a lovely little grouping attributed to a young Private First Class in the 80th Infantry Division, Fred A. Cole. PFC Cole enlisted in the US Army on September 18, 1917 out of Bloomington, Illinois. During his time in service he took part in the Defensive Campaign of Champagne-Marne as well as the Offensive Campaign of Aisne-Marne. He served honorably and was never wounded on the battlefield. He received his discharge on September 3, 1919.
The Items In This Grouping:
- Honorable Discharge / Enlistment Record: This is a true copy that was requested on January 29, 1923. The document states that he enlisted at 23 years old and having the occupation as a machinist. He received no valor awards, only the WWI Victory Medal which is present in this grouping. The handwriting on the document is extremely difficult to read.
- x2 Student Army Training Corps Pictures: The pictures include a portrait as well as a “class” photo. In early 1918, the US War Department created the Student Army Training Corps (SATC) as a way to hasten the training of soldiers for the war. Students would enlist in SATC and simultaneously take college courses and train for the military.
- 38th Anniversary of Veteran’s Day Pamphlet from Newark, New Jersey: He is not listed in the pamphlet, but only the “important” names are mentioned. The paper is dated November 11, 1956.
- M1917 SBR Gas Mask with Carry Bag, Instructions, and Filter: Even though it is complete, the mask itself is in a “petrified” state and is unable to open up. It would need some work to loosen the material up in order to display properly. The bag is in good condition but it is stained and dirty with all the proper signs of extensive field use.
- M1917 80th Infantry Division Doughboy Helmet Shell: We can no longer read the stamping on the underside of the rim, but the solid rivets on the chinstrap bales identifies this as being American made. The helmet is just a shell and has extensive rust and oxidation on the interior. There appears to be “battle damage” on the rear of the helmet and looks as if it was struck at low velocity and ever so slightly pierced the shell. The left side of the helmet still retains some of the original 80th Infantry insignia.
- Gloves, Cold Weather Cap and Leg Gaitor: All three items are in solid condition.
- Field Shaving Kit Bag: Just the case and a razor wrapper.
- Quartermaster Sleeve Insignia: Faded but in solid condition.
- WWI Victory Medal: Clean appearance, has a France clasp but no other markings.
- 1917 Interstate Novelty Company Flashlight: Given the state of the flashlight this would be solely intended for display and not use. There are a few areas of rust holes present and a few of the components are frozen.
- Leather Sheath For Utensils: There are no markings visible. Appears to be without damage but there is staining present.
- Reserve Officers Training Camp Red, White and Blue Hat Cord: Good condition but does have staining and minor fraying present.
- Wool Greatcoat: The condition of the coat is very good but does have a button no longer attached and is located in the interior pocket.
- Wool Service Shirt and Trousers: Both are in lovely condition but there is evident of extensive wear and faded, signs of solid field use.
- Enlistedman’s Service Visor: Sound condition with material loss on the interior as well as scattered moth nips on the wool exterior.
A wonderful little grouping that comes more than ready for further research and display.