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Military History/Questions Answered by Expert william oneill
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Union Uniform | 9/14/2011 |
| Q: I was wondering where and how union uniforms were manufactured (were companies contracted out to ... A: Ben, The army operated several Quartermaster Depots in the United States that made the majority of ... | |
| what kind of uniform? | 9/11/2011 |
| Q: I came across this photo in an old box of memorabilia from my wife's family. She had ancestors who ... A: Bill, This uniform dates from 1850-1880. He's a Colonel and probably Militia to judge by the ... | |
| epaulette identification | 9/5/2011 |
| Q: I see we share life membership in the DAV and interest in military history and artifacts. Perhaps ... A: Jim, Great! Where did you find your source? I discovered the great benefit of Google Books. They ... | |
| National Guard WWII/Army WWII | 9/4/2011 |
| Q: I have a copy of the army Enlistment record of my father, dated November 1938. However, I have ... A: Elsie, The National Guard recruited its members directly from the community and not through ... | |
| 19th Co., 3rd Mech. Reg., U.S. Air Service, WW I | 9/2/2011 |
| Q: From a distant relative, I have inherited an album of photos that were taken in Europe during WW I. ... A: Kennie, There were several airfields in France, England, and Italy that American airmen and ... | |
| what is it? | 8/28/2011 |
| Q: I have an unusual piece which was advertised as a chatelaine. It obviously had chains of some sort ... A: Cheryl, This is more a decorative inscription and not a trademark, it's too large. I sent answer ... | |
| what is it? | 8/24/2011 |
| Q: I have an unusual piece which was advertised as a chatelaine. It obviously had chains of some sort ... A: Cheryl, It's intriguing, but, I don't this is military. The piece is two small for a belt piece, and ... | |
| Major MJ Poore - Cavalry Photograph | 8/22/2011 |
| Q: Please can you help me identify this uniform and regiment? I bought this photo from an antique shop ... A: Gina, The uniform is British c.1900-1914; From the photograph he is cavalry, possibly a Lancer. I ... | |
| WWII Insignias | 8/22/2011 |
| Q: O'Neill, My father served in Europe during WWII. Two insignias he had on his uniform were the ... A: Kathryn, Again without a photograph it is hard to positively identify the insignia. Yes, the V Corps ... | |
| WWII Insignias | 8/21/2011 |
| Q: O'Neill, My father served in Europe during WWII. Two insignias he had on his uniform were the ... A: A photograph would help so I can try pin down the other insignia. The bloody bucket refers to the ... | |
| Civil War relative | 8/20/2011 |
| Q: I am attaching a photo of my Great, Great, Grandfather. I am trying to figure out what his rank and ... A: Scott, The 47 D stands for the 47th Infantry, Co. D. The uniform appears to date from 1872 to 1898. ... | |
| British Military Uniform of Ancestor | 8/17/2011 |
| Q: Would you be able to identify the uniform and any other information such as rank etc from the ... A: Karl, The uniform is English c.1899-1914. The cap badge appears to be the Queen's Bay, a cavalry ... | |
| SS Armband | 8/16/2011 |
| Q: I've been told this armband is an original just with a different varient? I was wondering if it ... A: Cody, It appears to be original. I've seen SS armbands of this type before. I'M in the process of ... | |
| Nazi uniforms | 8/13/2011 |
| Q: I am 18 years old from England, very interested in Nazi Germany, I have much respect for it and am ... A: Simon, I'm in the process of moving and have packed my library. At a rough guess he appears to be ... | |
| Can you tell me anything about this combat helmet? | 8/1/2011 |
| Q: I went out and bought this helmet for my boyfriend who is a war fanatic, but after buying it I ... A: Kayla, The helmet appears to be a It closely resembles the old U.S. M-1 helmet used from 1941-1982. ... | |
| How to find a WW2 Veteran | 7/29/2011 |
| Q: A friend of mine, Dave Carlstedt, was wounded by German sniper fire near Aachen during the Battle of ... A: William. I would first check with the 309th Infantry or 78th Division reunion pages. That's the ... | |
| What regiment? | 7/7/2011 |
| Q: My grandfather was in WW1 and according to info found in the 'National Roll of the Great War', was ... A: Roy, A soldier's book is like a service record. The book contained name, rank, regimental number, ... | |
| Uniform identification | 7/6/2011 |
| Q: Please help identify this ancestor's military uniform. As you can see he was born in Germany around ... A: Denise, The uniform worn by Adolph Fassnacht is not a military uniform. It appears to be a Grand ... | |
| What regiment? | 7/5/2011 |
| Q: My grandfather was in WW1 and according to info found in the 'National Roll of the Great War', was ... A: Roy, The cap badge resembles the Royal Artillery badge. The signal flags acted as a spotter ... | |
| ww2 insignia/unit crest | 6/18/2011 |
| Q: I'm very interested in the distinctive unit insignia/branch insignia pins[DI's??]I'd like to know ... A: Lenny, Yes, the type of fastener can indicate time periods. Screw-backs were in use from ... | |
| Military pin | 6/10/2011 |
| Q: I just found a little military pin stamped "BALFOUR STERLING" on a secondhand trade. Could you give ... A: Caroline, These are U.S. Army Pilot Wings, the back-mark indicates it is sterling silver and Balfour ... | |
| US Air Force Blazer | 6/6/2011 |
| Q: William, I attached a of an Air Force blazer. Would you please share your thoughts about its ... A: Teresa, This is a standard civilian blazer with the Air Force emblem embroidered on the pocket. Many ... | |
| 294th Ordnance Medium Maintenance Company | 6/4/2011 |
| Q: I am attempting to research my grandfathers military service and would like to obtain all patches ... A: Andrew, Check with the Aberdeen Proving Ground Museum to see if they have any information. You can ... | |
| European Uniform Identification | 6/3/2011 |
| Q: "So glad that I found this website! The attached picture is of my great grand uncle, Piotr ... A: Kathleen, The uniform is Russian. Poland was part of the Russian Empire until 1920 when it became an ... | |
| British Military Uniform | 6/2/2011 |
| Q: Can you please identify the uniform in the photo of my Great Grandfather, he joined the Royal ... A: Les, The uniform id English. Your GG dad is a Corporal. He appears to be a Territorial organized in ... | |
| Marine Uniform between 1797-1801 | 5/23/2011 |
| Q: O'Neill I form part of a re-enactment group in the small island of Malta. We portray a small ... A: Mark, The Royal Marines website, Royal Marines Museum, and consultation with several reproduction ... | |
| Unknown Sailors and Marines on a US Ship | 5/23/2011 |
| Q: Bill; I have a ca. 1910 postcard image of a group of USN sailors mixed with sailors of a visting ... A: Dave, Great hearing from you! These guys appear to be Swedes. There's not a lot of information out ... | |
| SS Armband | 5/19/2011 |
| Q: I have a Armband that seems to be quite rare. It was given to me by a friend who was in the OSS. ... A: Ted, That's a distinct possibility; I can't recall if I have seen any documents stamped like that, ... | |
| SS Armband | 5/18/2011 |
| Q: I have a Armband that seems to be quite rare. It was given to me by a friend who was in the OSS. ... A: Ted, Interesting collection, I have not seen this particular style armband, there are cuff titles ... | |
| Navy dress blues | 5/16/2011 |
| Q: I am currently enrolled in the navy dep program and my recruiter gave me the homework assignment of ... A: Ryne, Admiral Stephen B. Luce on 18 January 1876 proposed adding stars and tape on the jumper flap. ... | |
| Russian Army | 5/15/2011 |
| Q: I would like to know more about this military photograph. What army are these men in? All I have ... A: Ms. Match, These uniforms are Russian and date to 1900-1914. They appear to be cavalry dress uniform ... | |
| 306 infantry | 5/13/2011 |
| Q: What division? my father took his training at Camp lewis wash. He was in the 306. Discharged June ... A: Bill, The 306th Infantry was assigned to the 77th "Statue of Liberty" Division. I cannot find the ... | |
| great great grandfather in uniform | 5/11/2011 |
| Q: Can you give me some help on identifying ther era here.... As best we can tell from newspaper ... A: Steve, The 37th Division was Ohio's National Guard division. I can't recall what the National Army ... | |
| 1920s gear | 5/10/2011 |
| Q: As a followup to a previous question. The photo is of the 13th Field Artillery at Camp Dodge IA. ... A: Sean, No, The picture did not come clearly, the pixels blurred details. The 13th Field Artillery ... | |
| great great grandfather in uniform | 5/10/2011 |
| Q: Can you give me some help on identifying ther era here.... As best we can tell from newspaper ... A: Steve, The uniform is a M-1911 khaki summer service uniform. The border probably means the Mexican ... | |
| Danish military picture | 5/10/2011 |
| Q: Can you identify this uniform maybe around 1910. Thanks Rex A: Rex, The uniform dates to an earlier period possibly 1906. Danish troops wore a dark blue uniform ... | |
| TIN TYPE SOLDIER PICTURE | 5/10/2011 |
| Q: I'm sending you a picture of a tin type that has been in our family for a long time. I've been ... A: Marie, This is a Militia Uniform worn c.1870-1885 by many National Guard regiments in the United ... | |
| Uniform | 5/9/2011 |
| Q: I believe the timeframe of this photo is 1918-1922 and the shoulder patch is from the 4th ID. Can ... A: Sean, The M1911 uniform was replaced in 1926. The Army dropped the stand up collar to a roll style ... | |
| Uniform | 5/9/2011 |
| Q: I believe the timeframe of this photo is 1918-1922 and the shoulder patch is from the 4th ID. Can ... A: Sean, The uniform is called the Model 1911 and you are correct on the date. The soldier does belong ... | |
| Uniform ID | 5/6/2011 |
| Q: I sent this question 4/26 and received a reply 4/28, saying you had already answered this question. ... A: Tom, Hmm, I doubt if he returned to Italy to fight in World War I; Italy did not enter the war ... | |
| Uniform ID | 5/5/2011 |
| Q: I sent this question 4/26 and received a reply 4/28, saying you had already answered this question. ... A: Tom, I received a similar question about the time you wrote. The uniform is worn by Italian Alpine ... | |
| Help identifying uniform, medal, helmet | 5/3/2011 |
| Q: This photo was taken of my 2nd great grandfather about 1880 from austria. He has a medal on his ... A: Ken, Yes, from the photograph I believe Albrecht was a cavalryman. As for the medal I'm not sure ... | |
| german hat | 4/26/2011 |
| Q: Mr.Oneill.I have a hat that i think is german and was wondering if you could tell me any thing else ... A: Lyle, The cap does not appear to be military, but rather, a veteran's organization cap. The cross ... | |
| War of 1812 militia | 4/17/2011 |
| Q: Could use some ideas as to how was Porter's Brigade uniformed at Lundy's Lane in 1814? Fenton's 5th ... A: Randy, Sorry for the delay, The papers of Daniel D. Tompkins governor of New York specified green ... | |
| Civil War uniform | 4/15/2011 |
| Q: Can you tell me anything about the uniform worn by the gentleman in this picture? He is my great ... A: Cherly, Your Grandpa is wearing a uniform adopted in the 1890's; the cap was adopted in 1902. The ... | |
| Military uniform identity | 4/14/2011 |
| Q: My Dad told me that my grandfather was a bodyguard for the last czar of Russia, Nicholas II. He was ... A: Tom, Yes, the Guards protected the Czar and his family, much like the British Guards. The second ... | |
| Alexander Guzman | 4/7/2011 |
| Q: I dont have any information on my father. Anything you could get would be deeply apreciated. My ... A: Irene, The place to start is the Military Personnel Records Branch 9700 Page Blvd. St. Louis Mo. ... | |
| uniform identification | 4/3/2011 |
| Q: can you please identify this uniform jacket? Could it be genuine or replica? Another shot: ... A: Mark, If this is supposed to be a WWII German army uniform, it's fake! The tank patches on the ... | |
| Military uniform information??? | 4/1/2011 |
| Q: Oneill: I am wondering if you can identify this uniform (if it is a uniform),or give me any ... A: Jackie, This picture is of a scout I believe. Cavalry uniforms of the period were plain regular coat ... | |
| British uniform | 3/29/2011 |
| Q: Good day Mr Oneill, Please would you mind assisting me if you are able to, I recently bought a ... A: Dion, Yes Please send photographs. I can't help if I don't know what I'm looking for. Please send ... | |
| help with a uniform | 3/25/2011 |
| Q: could anyone identify this uniform, i don't even know where to start A: Caroline, It appears to be British to judge by the sergeant's chevron on his sleeve. I don't think ... | |
| cannonball | 3/24/2011 |
| Q: I have an item i'm trying to identify that I was told is a 6lb cannonball but it has a small metal ... A: Raymond, Not necessarily, When disposing of ordnance in the nineteenth century they sealed the fuse ... | |
| cannonball | 3/24/2011 |
| Q: I have an item i'm trying to identify that I was told is a 6lb cannonball but it has a small metal ... A: Raymond, The metal plate sealed with wax was where they put a fuse and loaded the powder. Military ... | |
| Military Uniform | 3/16/2011 |
| Q: The person in this photo lived from 1879-1969. This photo was taken in Newport News, VA. Any idea ... A: Patty, This is a cadet uniform. I would say Virginia Military Institute VMI maintains a list of ... | |
| Discrimination against German soldiers. | 3/14/2011 |
| Q: Oneil, I am currently in the process of writing an essay on the effect Nazi Germany and Adolf ... A: Shona, An interesting subject. I doubt you will find much on discrimination against German soldiers ... | |
| Crimean Medal | 3/13/2011 |
| Q: Pleas e could you clarify whether my Crimean medal is genuine. I purchased a medal that belonged to ... A: Claire, The only way to ensure authenticity is examine the muster rolls of the 17th Lancers to match ... | |
| patch identity | 3/12/2011 |
| Q: Bill Can you give me some history on this patch. Belonged to a family member, long passed away, and ... A: Jim, I have seen this patch before and I believe it is an early pattern SSI of the 66th Infantry ... | |
| Uniform Insignias | 3/9/2011 |
| Q: I have a couple of military insignias that I am trying to identify..can you help? Here is a photo... ... A: Tim, The nomenclature plates are Japanese possibly off an aircraft or some other piece of equipment. ... | |
| Picture | 3/6/2011 |
| Q: Here is my grandfather's insignia. A: Gerry, The insignia is for the Training and Replacement Command. Given your Grandad's service Camp ... | |
| Cavalry Saddle | 3/3/2011 |
| Q: Our family just purchased our first horse, to which my 96 yo grandfather says, "Hey I have an old ... A: Ashleigh, The saddle is probably a McClellan saddle adopted in 1859 and used until 1942 when the ... | |
| military helmet's origin | 3/1/2011 |
| Q: Mr Oneill, I was hoping that you could help me identify where this military helmet came from. I'm ... A: I believe the helmet is an American No.5 model. Very few of these were used during the war. The ... | |
| German Military Uniforms | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: I am hoping you might be able to help me identify the military uniforms in these photographs. The ... A: Eric, The uniform on the left is German. he has a wound badge, the wreath, helmet, and bayonet. I'm ... | |
| WWI Propeller Badge | 2/21/2011 |
| Q: Sir, I received this as a gift. It was enclosed in a small box from a Jeweler in Pensacola. I ... A: Chris, It appears to be army; Pensacola was in its infancy, and trained navy and army air corps ... | |
| U.S. Military Uniform WWII | 2/21/2011 |
| Q: I am the Executive Director at the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust. Our Archivist, Vladimir ... A: Mark, This garrison cap belonged to a member of an American Legion Post. The Legionnaires wear black ... | |
| uniform and building | 2/21/2011 |
| Q: could you tell me what type of uniform these men are wearing, is it a military band from the civil ... A: Veronica, The uniforms are civil war era c.1850-1890. They may be a local band also. The location ... | |
| German Uniform Belt? | 2/20/2011 |
| Q: I have purchased a black leather belt with a plain pebbled buckle. The buckle and clasp are both ... A: Gary, My alarm bells are ringing. I searched through my reference sources and consulted several ... | |
| war of 1812 | 2/19/2011 |
| Q: Mr.O'Neill, thank you for your response.To clarify my question I was seeking information on the 1814 ... A: Randy, The rifle regiments added in 1813 all wore the uniform of the First Regiment. The hunting ... | |
| Uniform Identification | 2/19/2011 |
| Q: Could you please tell me what uniform is worn by my grandfather in this picture? I can tell you the ... A: Serafina, The stars were a standard marking used by the Italian combat and support arms. Sorry, I ... | |
| WWI Question | 2/18/2011 |
| Q: Q: During World War I, what land/territory were England, Austria-Hungary, France, Russia, Germany, ... A: Jordan, World War I resulted from an assassination of the Arch-duke of Austria and his wife in ... | |
| WWI Son in Service Banners | 2/17/2011 |
| Q: I work for a gentleman who collects WWI Son in Service banners. We are wondering if there is a ... A: Krisiti, The banners were commercially manufactured, but they were not numbered or catalogued. The ... | |
| Uniform Identity? | 2/16/2011 |
| Q: I'm hoping you can identify the uniform from this terribly bad photo. It may lead to tracing my ... A: Christine, The uniform Corporal Humphreys wears is U.S. Army; I date the uniform c.1850-1900. It may ... | |
| war of 1812 | 2/15/2011 |
| Q: buglers assigned to united states infantry regiments? what would designate ... A: Randy, I'm not sure of your question. Do you want to know about the rifle regiment uniform for a ... | |
| Military pin | 2/14/2011 |
| Q: I am asking about a pin I found. I cannot identify. I think it is a unit crest. It has a screw back ... A: Tom, The 103rd Field Artillery, Rhode Island National Guard. The dui was worn on the garrison cap, ... | |
| Uniform | 2/12/2011 |
| Q: This is my great great grandfather who emigrated from Sweden to America in 1982. We believe he ... A: Annika, The uniform dates c.1885-1900 era. The buckle of the belt "US" oval is correct for the ... | |
| Understanding Final Pay Form | 2/8/2011 |
| Q: I've got my Grandpa's one and only record from the National Archives on a War Department Form (372A) ... A: David, The ASF-F throws me a little; it appears it was part of your Granddad's name plate. The ... | |
| APO as a locator during WW2 | 2/8/2011 |
| Q: How do I learn where a WW2 APO address took the mail? For example I've ltrs that went to APO 713 ... A: Will Each unit overseas had an APO address the number identified the unit. I believe the ... | |
| identifying civil war soldier | 2/5/2011 |
| Q: This is a picture of my great, great, great grandfather. He emmigrated to the United States around ... A: Chris, Ola is an officer in this photograph. He could have been elected to the position on ... | |
| Polish uniforms 1919-39? | 2/3/2011 |
| Q: Among my grandmother's photos, I found three of men in Polish uniforms. The photos are probably ... A: Rick, These are army uniforms. The border guard wore army uniforms. The maritime border force wore ... | |
| Polish uniforms 1919-39? | 2/3/2011 |
| Q: Among my grandmother's photos, I found three of men in Polish uniforms. The photos are probably ... A: Rick, These uniforms were worn by the Polish army from 1919 to 1939. I'm not sure of the hatband, ... | |
| Army | 2/3/2011 |
| Q: I'm researching for a book, but I can't locate this information and I'm hoping you can provide it. ... A: Nancy, You are correct on your assumptions. In 1993 the Army deployed to Somalia, we're still in ... | |
| German Military Uniform | 2/3/2011 |
| Q: Attached is a photo of my great-grandfather. He was born in 1871. He came to the United States in ... A: Matt, it appears to be a German uniform, possibly Saxony given his residence I'm not sure, the ... | |
| Identify Unit Crest | 2/1/2011 |
| Q: Attached is part of a picture that I am restoring. Can you identify the unit crest? In order to ... A: MJ, I'm foolish! the motto is declares it as the Southeastern Training Command. The motto list from ... | |
| 1914 -1918 Eastern Europe uniform identification | 2/1/2011 |
| Q: I am interested in identifying the uniforms to piece together my family history. I know family ... A: Nadine Joy, The uniforms appear to be Austrian; the collars on the three soldiers behind the women ... | |
| Identify Unit Crest | 1/30/2011 |
| Q: Attached is part of a picture that I am restoring. Can you identify the unit crest? In order to ... A: MJ, it's hard tell from the photograph; there appears to be an (eagle?)and the base looks like a ... | |
| identifying uniform | 1/30/2011 |
| Q: We found this photo in out gr-gr-grandmothers belongings and we are trying to identify the relative. ... A: Sue, The uniform appears to be British; the cap badge is that of the Scots Greys. I'm not sure about ... | |
| Unifrom Identification | 1/29/2011 |
| Q: A distant relative was shown wearing some sort of Uniform in a picture on his tombstone. All I know ... A: Bruce, It is entirely possible that he fought in the Confederate army. Southern Illinois sympathized ... | |
| Unifrom Identification | 1/27/2011 |
| Q: A distant relative was shown wearing some sort of Uniform in a picture on his tombstone. All I know ... A: Bruce, This is either a Grand Army of the Republic uniform or United Confederate Veterans uniform. ... | |
| military button/pin | 1/14/2011 |
| Q: I have a soild round copper/brass pin/button? it has crossed rifles then a 3 above the rifles and a ... A: Steve, This is a U.S. Army collar insignia from World War I. The number/letter appears to be a C for ... | |
| Great War photo | 1/12/2011 |
| Q: Could you please help possibly identify the possible origins of the soldier? See attached image I ... A: Roxanne, I apologize for the delay, and confess I'm stumped! The uniform appears to be Belgian or ... | |
| misc questions | 1/8/2011 |
| Q: I have a couple of questions 1) what was an English longbow made of as well as strung with and what ... A: Dante, No. There was more than one way to load a crossbow. Early bows used a notch to hold the ... | |
| Checkerboard on back of 7th Inf Div uniforms at Kwajalein | 1/7/2011 |
| Q: War Dept film MISC. 1037, available here: ... A: Tom, I've never seen marker like these, but I believe they are air panels; I checked the 7th ... | |
| misc questions | 1/5/2011 |
| Q: I have a couple of questions 1) what was an English longbow made of as well as strung with and what ... A: Dante, Historical records are not clear on the wood used to make the English longbow. I have seen ... | |
| identify old medal | 1/2/2011 |
| Q: I have a picture of my Great, Great, Great Grandfather wearing some sort of medal. It looks like a ... A: Cassie, Your ancestor is wearing a United Confederate Veteran ribbon. These ribbons were used by ... | |
| badge or buckle | 1/2/2011 |
| Q: I have a item I believe to be connected to the 33rd reg. of foot. Sadly it is broken but I still ... A: Tom, You can try a website called britishempire.com. They have a lot of good information on the ... | |
| badge or buckle | 1/1/2011 |
| Q: I have a item I believe to be connected to the 33rd reg. of foot. Sadly it is broken but I still ... A: Tom, I believe it might possibly be the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment (47 & 81 Foot). The Rose and ... | |
| USMC Uniform 1945 | 12/17/2010 |
| Q: I am attempting to refurbish my grandfathers uniform as a Christmas gift to him. However, I am at a ... A: Joshua, The ribbons and badges are placed one-quarter above the left pocket. You didn't say whether ... | |
| identify uniform/ medal | 12/15/2010 |
| Q: I would appreciate any help in identifying this uniform and medal. Sorry that the picture isn't ... A: Jim, The uniform is American c.1902-1911. He appears to be an officer, those are bars, I believe. ... | |
| Longbow | 12/12/2010 |
| Q: when did the yew longbow of english legend first appear on the medieval battlefield and what was ... A: Dante, Bows had been in use since the tenth century. The long bow, however no one is sure when the ... | |
| Shoulder patch WW1 | 12/11/2010 |
| Q: My father-in-law was in France in WW1. He had a roundel (red outside, blue, white) with a "3" in ... A: Bradford, A photograph would help, based on your description,the roundel was the general marking of ... | |
| Navy uniform from a painting | 12/4/2010 |
| Q: William, I came across two old paintings in bad condition that I bought cheaply at auction (in ... A: Paul, I checked out the national maritime museum, dulwich website which has an extensive collection ... | |
| WW2 Uniform Recognition | 12/4/2010 |
| Q: I am a UK citizen and was born in 1947. I have recently come into possession of a photograph of my ... A: Cavell, The uniform does not appear to a U.S. uniform. Officers of this period in the U.S. Army did ... | |
| Navy uniform from a painting | 12/4/2010 |
| Q: William, I came across two old paintings in bad condition that I bought cheaply at auction (in ... A: Paul, I've consulted the various naval regulations and histories for the period and have drawn a ... | |
| WWI Army Insignia Badge | 12/2/2010 |
| Q: I have a brass US Army Insignia that belonged to my grandfather who served in the AEF during WW1. It ... A: John, The insignia is an officer's cavalry collar insignia. Army Regulations for collar insignia ... | |
| 20 year Service Pin | 12/2/2010 |
| Q: Is this air force Service Pin still in use today or is it a vintage discontinued item. A: Curtis, You can check the official USAF website and search awards for the answer. The pin pictured ... | |
| Bronze Star | 12/1/2010 |
| Q: My uncle was an infantryman who was KIA on Luzon in 1945. I believe that as a result of that, he ... A: Jamie, You are correct. All infantrymen and medics qualified for the Bronze Star with the award of ... | |
| Need help identifying uniform/rifle | 11/30/2010 |
| Q: Can anyone please help me identify anything at all about this photograph? The approximate year, the ... A: Linda, The uniform appears to be American, though service cap was replaced in 1911 with the Montana ... | |
| Revolutionary War-Era British Uniforms | 11/29/2010 |
| Q: I am looking for information on the sorts of uniforms worn by the officers during the early ... A: Aislin, British officers used epaulette to indicate rank. I studied the British Army's standing ... | |
| Revolutionary War-Era British Uniforms | 11/29/2010 |
| Q: I am looking for information on the sorts of uniforms worn by the officers during the early ... A: Aislinn, There was no real rank insignia for an officer's ranks in the American Revolution. Are you ... | |
| DECORATION | 11/19/2010 |
| Q: My Grandfather retired a Colonel in the USAF. He served in WWII. I have looked at a lot of his ... A: Kevin, The cap badge is the Coat of Arms of the United States. Any google search will show on ... | |
| Officers Sword | 11/16/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know the origin, rank of person who carried this sword as well as when it dates back ... A: Sarah, The saber appears to be Prussian in origin. The hilt has Hohnenzollern eagle. As to date late ... | |
| Old Crossed Rifles pin/medal | 11/14/2010 |
| Q: I have an old button/pin, seems to be brass or copper, no other ID on it. the rifles/guns are ... A: Viola, I'll try to answer. Crossed rifles was not used during the Civil War. Civil War infantrymen ... | |
| Marine Corps poster | 11/13/2010 |
| Q: I have recently acquired an old Unitede States Morine Corps Recruiting poster. It measures 16" wide ... A: Randy, The poster by the uniforms worn by the Marines is turn of the century, Spanish American War, ... | |
| Helmet | 11/10/2010 |
| Q: I just picked an old helmet. It seems to be made of leather. There are no marks on it as far as I ... A: Carola, The helmet appears to be of British origin. It closely resembles the World War I steel ... | |
| ID of military uniforms | 11/7/2010 |
| Q: Three images are a vital link in a genealogy research project. A: Diether, The uniforms are British; the one on the right is walking out and the bursting bomb collar ... | |
| new question: id of uniform | 11/4/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to identify two army badges. Nothing I have hints at what they might be. Background of ... A: Madelaine, The uniform is a British Army issue worn by all Commonwealth soldiers serving on the ... | |
| military badges | 11/3/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to identify two army badges. Nothing I have hints at what they might be. Background of ... A: Madeline, The first patch is a shoulder sleeve insignia for the 8th Army. The four white and four ... | |
| Identification of uniform | 10/22/2010 |
| Q: Is it possible for you to identify the regiment that the 2 young people would belong to? I beleive ... A: The uniforms are British and were worn from 1860-1881.This uniform doubled as a field uniform until ... | |
| Nazi Uniform Pins | 10/19/2010 |
| Q: I have some questions. A while ago, a friend of mine gave me a case that contained three WWII Nazi ... A: Dylan, The eagle appears to be a metallic SS-general service. The stick pin of the edelweiss was ... | |
| M 36 Mantel | 10/18/2010 |
| Q: I have just bought an "original" M 36 Mantel, with insignia and buttons removed. It has several ... A: Gary, You are right to be suspicious! The coat looks suspiciously like a Swedish knock-off. Swedish ... | |
| Japanese dog tag | 10/7/2010 |
| Q: I have a Japanese dog tag from WW2 that my grandfather brought home from the war. It still has the ... A: Jake, The flask looks like an oiler; Japanese soldiers carried rifle cleaning kits and this I ... | |
| Japanese dog tag | 10/6/2010 |
| Q: I have a Japanese dog tag from WW2 that my grandfather brought home from the war. It still has the ... A: Jake, A photograph would help me identify it better. Unfortunately, I don't speak Japanese. I ... | |
| introduction of British steel helmets | 10/1/2010 |
| Q: I am keen to know the name of the controversial doctor who lobbied (against considerable ... A: Professor Chester, Sorry, I've drawn a complete blank on the Doctor's name. There is no mention in ... | |
| Short-Waisted Military Uniform | 9/29/2010 |
| Q: Bill: would you please give us your assessment of this uniform? Thank you. A: Teresa, The jacket is either a U.S. Eisenhower jacket or British Battle dress tunic. The jacket ... | |
| Naval Hat Badge | 9/28/2010 |
| Q: Any clue as to what this is? It appears to be navy but I couldn't locate any information on it. The ... A: Ron, Thanks for sending an unusual cap badge. I thought maybe a Maritime Academy badge. It's an ... | |
| Please ID this Military Poncho | 9/26/2010 |
| Q: This appears to have some nylon material inside to seal up the seams I believe for water protection. ... A: Teresa, It's not a poncho, but Navy foul weather gear. They are several different styles. This is ... | |
| Please Identify This Military Uniform | 9/24/2010 |
| Q: I received this jacket from an estate and wanted to know you would be able to identify it? Inside ... A: Teresa, The uniform is Danish. The lion and hearts are used by Denmark. The battle dress jacket is ... | |
| identify military uniform | 9/22/2010 |
| Q: Can you identify this uniform? I see a capital 'D' on the man's belt buckle, and that's a numeral ... A: Dale, Based on your research the uniform dates to 1880-1895. This style of uniform was worn well ... | |
| identify military uniform | 9/20/2010 |
| Q: Can you identify this uniform? I see a capital 'D' on the man's belt buckle, and that's a numeral ... A: Dale, Thanks for the photograph; I'm not sure about the badge, I haven't seen one of these before. ... | |
| identify military uniform | 9/20/2010 |
| Q: Can you identify this uniform? I see a capital 'D' on the man's belt buckle, and that's a numeral ... A: Dale, This is a militia uniform from the 1840-1870's. The militia/national guard of the pre-civil ... | |
| WW2 USN Wool Jumper Shirt | 9/7/2010 |
| Q: I have a WW2 USN wool shirt that has a very large V embroidered inside on the back on silk/satin. ... A: Lee Ann, First the jumper was worn by a Coast Guardsman. The Navy and Coast Guard wore the same ... | |
| German Officers Visor Hat | 9/5/2010 |
| Q: I just happen to come across yaou site, and thought this would be a good time to find an accurate ... A: Laura, Thanks, for the photograph. I believe the mark inside the cap is the maker's mark. German ... | |
| German Officers Visor Hat | 9/4/2010 |
| Q: I just happen to come across yaou site, and thought this would be a good time to find an accurate ... A: Laura, The picture helps a lot! You have a Luftwaffe (Air Force) peaked service cap. The cap is ... | |
| Swagger sticks | 9/2/2010 |
| Q: Have U.S. naval officers ever carried them ? I am a collector of canes, and staffs. I am also a ... A: Richard, American naval officers as a rule did not carry swagger sticks as part of their uniforms. ... | |
| military uniform | 8/28/2010 |
| Q: Can you help me identify this uniform? A: Ira, The uniform appears to be a Militia uniform c.1846-1860. The gray uniform distinguished ... | |
| British Military Uniform | 8/26/2010 |
| Q: I hope you can help me identify the regiment and approximate date of the officer in this old oil ... A: Declan, The uniform dates to 1700-1800. The uniform changed during the Napoleonic era to a straight ... | |
| CBI PIN | 8/22/2010 |
| Q: I have my dad's CBI pin. It's his from when he served in the 745th Railway Operating Battalion in ... A: George, I'm not sure I understand your question. It sounds like your Dad's Distinguished Unit ... | |
| WW II Eagle Pin | 8/20/2010 |
| Q: I have inheritted my grandfather's Army service pins/ insignia and have idetified all but one. I am ... A: Christopher, It appears to be a variation of the rank insignia for a colonel. However, it maybe a ... | |
| trying to identify strange belt weapon | 8/13/2010 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could identify a weapon that looks like a real weapon but was used in a ... A: Peter, I've never heard of the name your granddad called it. Concealed weapons are common even ... | |
| regiment badges on a board | 8/11/2010 |
| Q: i was hoping you could help me identify this item. it has various regiment badges all over the top ... A: Matthew, The cap badges all appear to be British Army, and Commonwealth Armies, Australia, Canada, ... | |
| cannonballs | 8/10/2010 |
| Q: I have a 80 lb cannonball.It is 8 to 10 inches in diameter. It has 4 to 6 little dimples evenly ... A: John, From your description I think it may be a mortar shell. Whether it's live, if there is a plug ... | |
| Military unifiorms - pair of gold epaulets | 8/8/2010 |
| Q: Could you possibly help identify these uniform epaulets? I obtained them in Germany in the late ... A: Bob, They appear to be British. The crown indicates a Major. The button appears to be a regimental ... | |
| Red coat, uniform, possibly South American, c. 1800 | 8/6/2010 |
| Q: I'm trying to identify the uniform worn in this portrait miniature--or at least identify what ... A: Christine, Sorry, I took so long to answer, I didn't receive the original query when sent. The ... | |
| British Army Uniform Identification | 8/5/2010 |
| Q: William Would it be possible to identify my Great Grandfather's regiment and medal from the attached ... A: Basil, Your Great Granddad appears to be wearing a uniform that was used between 1850-1881 as ... | |
| unknown medal ribbon bars | 7/28/2010 |
| Q: I have 2 ribbon bars that I am unable to identify. I have spent a lot of time trying to locate what ... A: Lee ann I'm stumped at the moment! Exhaustive search on line and references draws a blank. They may ... | |
| Russian Military uniform apx 1905 | 7/23/2010 |
| Q: I have recently been given this picture of my gg grandfather. The only think I have been told is ... A: Tina, The uniform dates from 1900-1917; your gg grandfather appears to be wearing a greatcoat. The ... | |
| What type of uniform could this be? | 7/18/2010 |
| Q: I found this photo behind an old photo from the last half of the 1800's whose family was in ... A: Barb, The uniform is German! The photograph however, doesn't match the nineteenth century, rather, ... | |
| Change of name | 7/16/2010 |
| Q: I am researching a soldier who was killed in France on 22 June 1917. His name was Henry George Pryer ... A: Mike, Yes, It was common in the nineteenth century for some soldiers to enlist under false names. ... | |
| restoration of WWII US Paratrooper helmet | 7/15/2010 |
| Q: I'm trying to restore a US WWII paratrooper helmet and have all the components. I need some type of ... A: Ralph, I'm not aware of a specific website that has the information you need. There are several ... | |
| XXIV Corps' newspaper | 7/15/2010 |
| Q: I have a newspaper from April 29, 1945 called "Gunto Graphic-The Sunday Corps Courier" from Okinawa. ... A: Nikki, This was printed by the XXIV Army Corps as the title suggests. The XXIV Corps was part of the ... | |
| Uniform Identification c 1860-1900 w/ white Bearskin | 7/14/2010 |
| Q: I recently found this cabinet photo of a soldier wearing a white bearskin hat (head gear) and a ... A: Ron, It's not Russian; this gentleman is wearing a state militia uniform. He's also a Civil War ... | |
| Identifying military uniform | 7/9/2010 |
| Q: I have a photo of an unknown relative in military dress. Is it possible you could identify the ... A: Lynne, I believe from the photograph studio address, this may be a Danish or possibly Swedish ... | |
| old red coat | 7/9/2010 |
| Q: My name is Jason and I am from Australia I saw that you identified a red coat for another person and ... A: Jason, This coat needs further research. I have a couple of problems with what I see from the coat. ... | |
| British army uniforms | 6/28/2010 |
| Q: I am desperately trying to find out about the historical development of the British army uniform and ... A: Torange, You should contact the Imperial War Museum and the National Army Museum. They have ... | |
| japanese insignia ww2 | 6/24/2010 |
| Q: My father-in-law brought back this badge from the Phillipines after the war. I have scoured many ... A: Mike, This doesn't appear to be a Japanese authorized insignia. Japanese Army insignia used a star, ... | |
| Uniform Shirts | 6/22/2010 |
| Q: I sew for a local honor guard, some of the older gentleman would like the nice crease down the front ... A: Sandy, Either way is acceptable. Honor Guards sometime had the "military press" sewn in, but it was ... | |
| ssi | 6/21/2010 |
| Q: my grandfather was in ww2 Philippines? is what I'm told by family members, i know for a fact he was ... A: Geoff, The 32nd Infantry Division, "Red Arrow" is a National Guard Division. It contained units of ... | |
| ssi | 6/20/2010 |
| Q: my grandfather was in ww2 Philippines? is what I'm told by family members, i know for a fact he was ... A: Geoff, The 25th Infantry Division on the left shoulder was the division your grandfather served ... | |
| WWII medals, ribbons and pins | 6/10/2010 |
| Q: Mr. O'Neill,thank you for your service to our country. And thank you for offering your assistance. ... A: Debbie, Pictures would help me identify the ribbons, though you have a pretty good idea of your ... | |
| Panther, Tiger or King Tiger | 6/7/2010 |
| Q: out of the Panzer MK V, MK VI or King Tiger which was most successful overall when it came to ... A: Dante, All three were effective in dealing with masses of Allied tanks. The King Tiger evoked the ... | |
| 1800's Military Photo | 6/2/2010 |
| Q: I haven't been able to find these hats or swords online. Family history says these men were Union ... A: Lon, The swords appear to be fraternal or musician; the uniform is patterned on the U.S. Army ... | |
| not the candy "Hershey bars" | 5/24/2010 |
| Q: Where can I find what the WWII hershey bars that denoted overseas service in a hostile zone look ... A: Patrenericia, A thousand apologies! I didn't make the connection! You are right; it's generally ... | |
| "Hershey bars" | 5/23/2010 |
| Q: Where can I find what the WWII hershey bars that denoted overseas service in a hostile zone look ... A: Patricia, I suggest writing the Hershey company to see if they have a photo or specimen. My dtudy of ... | |
| Iowaki Campaign | 5/15/2010 |
| Q: Can you tell me about the Iowaki campaign, and particularly the 9th Regiment of Foot's involvement ... A: Sean, Sorry it has taken so long to answer your question. Iowaki Campaign was also known Satsuma ... | |
| what uniform is my ancester wearing | 5/12/2010 |
| Q: for years and years this (pic attached) hung in my grandmother's attic. It is an image of a ... A: Joy, I've struck out! The uniform is a cavalry uniform, the pellise gives that away. The red ... | |
| Military evolution | 5/10/2010 |
| Q: Sir, good noon. Thank you very much for answering my earlier question. A further query: Can you ... A: Maj Humayun, The interwar perios 1919-1939 several innovations introduced in the Great War were ... | |
| WW1 | 4/30/2010 |
| Q: I am curious as to how American prisoners in Germany were treated during the above period, ... A: Denise, Prisoner of war camps were spread across Germany except East Prussia in World War I. There ... | |
| WWI Uniform | 4/30/2010 |
| Q: My husband's grandfather, Wessie L. Nickens, is pictured in a uniform which we believed was a naval ... A: Linda, It's a Naval Officer Uniform. You can try the National Military Personnel Center in St. ... | |
| Prussian uniform | 4/29/2010 |
| Q: I have a photograph of a Polish ancestor born 1871 in Posen which was then part of Prussia. The ... A: Cathy, It is a German Army uniform. He appears to be a cadet,possibly at university of Kriegschule ... | |
| WW1 | 4/29/2010 |
| Q: I am curious as to how American prisoners in Germany were treated during the above period, ... A: Denise, Seek and ye shall find! I did a study on treatment of American Prisoners of War for the ... | |
| WWII veteran | 4/29/2010 |
| Q: I am trying to ascertain if I have located the correct WWII veteran. I am looking for a Ray Pryor ... A: Regina, This is a difficult search. The serial number is the most important part of researching ... | |
| Uniform | 4/27/2010 |
| Q: I have an ancestor called James Bardsley who appears to have lived from 1766 to 1836.He is listed in ... A: David, Still working on your question. I've been unable to positively identify either James or James ... | |
| British Army Rank and Unit Structure | 4/22/2010 |
| Q: Oneill I am a huge world war 2 buff, mostly the US history, tactics, weapons and so on, but I am ... A: Jared, British Army ranks are somewhat similar to U.S. Enlisted ranks in the British Army ... | |
| 323rd Field Artillary Bn, Btry B | 4/22/2010 |
| Q: My grandfather recently passed away and I was passed down his discharge papers from his service in ... A: Daniel, The 323rd Field Artillery Battalion was an organic artillery battalion of the 83rd Infantry ... | |
| ww2 uniform/unit ID? | 4/16/2010 |
| Q: I have been trying to work out some mysteries regarding my grandfather's service in WW2. I know he ... A: Geoff, It does appear to be desert. The ground looks like sand. The buildings appear to be the same ... | |
| ww2 uniform/unit ID? | 4/14/2010 |
| Q: I have been trying to work out some mysteries regarding my grandfather's service in WW2. I know he ... A: Geoff, I believe the picture was taken in the States. I can't make out the shoulder insignia very ... | |
| Squadrons | 4/14/2010 |
| Q: I am helping a friend with research for a paper she's doing. During WW1 how many German fighters ... A: Denise, Squadrons generally had twelve planes per squadron. German fighters of World War I operated ... | |
| Uniform of the Army of the United States, original documents | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: One more question, with all 25 of the images in 100% absolute mint condition, what is everything ... A: Brandon, The worth of historical lithographs and other documents are generally what the market will ... | |
| live cannon ball or not | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: I JUST FOUND YOU EMAIL ADDRESS AND HOPE THAT YOU ARE STILL AT THIS EMAIL. I FOUND YOU ON A SITE AND ... A: Barbara. From the photograph it appears to date from 1800-1860; The size appears to be what is known ... | |
| Uniform of the Army of the United States, original documents | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: I came across a large satchel of 25 images (lithographs) with H.A. Ogden's signature, all ... A: Brandon, This was a series of works done by H.A. Ogden for United States Army covering the styles of ... | |
| IWO Jima Magazine | 4/9/2010 |
| Q: Good morning. I recently lost my father, a WW2 USN vet. Among his things I found this publication ... A: Mary, This magazine was printed by the 5th Marine Division. It was printed for members of the ... | |
| Civil War Insignia | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: Attached is a picture of one of my wife's ancestors in his Union Civil War uniform. I have learned ... A: Bill, The wreath embroidered on the cap is similar to that worn by staff officers; however, there ... | |
| army/engineer pins from vietnam | 4/6/2010 |
| Q: I recently inherited my deceased father's army pins from his service in Vietnam. We've been able to ... A: Brook, The wing and sword is the insignia of the Army Republic of Vietnam Jump Status designator. ... | |
| army/engineer pins from vietnam | 4/6/2010 |
| Q: I recently inherited my deceased father's army pins from his service in Vietnam. We've been able to ... A: Brook Please email pictures of the pins. Essayons, is the motto of the Engineer Corps. The 173rd ... | |
| Marine patches | 4/2/2010 |
| Q: Lets say a marine served as a raider in the first part of WW2 and then served in the 4th Marine ... A: Jon, He would have worn the First Marine Amphibious Corps raider patch. These were blue squares with ... | |
| ww1 french | 3/31/2010 |
| Q: Sir, during ww1 did the french make a pressed metal pilot wing, it would be hollow backed, not solid ... A: Mary, I'm not sure. I've never seen one and there appears to be little information on that type of ... | |
| British mess dress in WW1 | 3/30/2010 |
| Q: Could any one tell me what a British Lieutenant's mess dress uniform would have looked like in 1912 ... A: Carlos, He would not have worn his mess dress to the wedding. Mess dress wasn't designed to be for ... | |
| Help idintifying helmet | 3/30/2010 |
| Q: I recently found a war helmet that I am trying to identify. It's not made of steel but something ... A: Georgi, You have an M-1 helmet liner. This fit under U.S. the M-1 steel helmet. Helmet liners could ... | |
| British mess dress in WW1 | 3/29/2010 |
| Q: Could any one tell me what a British Lieutenant's mess dress uniform would have looked like in 1912 ... A: Carlos, What regiment? British mess dress was a red shell jacket with the regimental colors for ... | |
| Unknown insignia | 3/28/2010 |
| Q: Good Morning, We need help trying to identify the top patch on the shoulder of the guy on the left ... A: Anita, I can't get a clear image of the insignia from the photograph. I think it's on his right ... | |
| WW 2 DDocument | 3/28/2010 |
| Q: I believe I am in possession of two original copies of the surrender of Japan and Germany. I ... A: Sam, Some soldiers did receive copies of the surrender documents. I've seen several copies over the ... | |
| WWII Paratrooper Pin | 3/28/2010 |
| Q: As part of my brother-in-law's estate, I found this paratrooper pin. After doing some research ... A: Mary, It's difficult to say for sure as I only have the back side of the badge. It appears to be a ... | |
| Nursing Pin Identification | 3/26/2010 |
| Q: Attached is another picture of a nursing pin. Was lead to believe it is from WWII. Can you verify ... A: Margaret, This isn't a nursing pin. It appears to be WWII in origin, but the lamp of knowledge isn't ... | |
| goggles | 3/25/2010 |
| Q: i have goggles that i believe to be from ww2 but im not sure. so can you help me with what country ... A: Mario, It's hard to say. They appear to be 1920-1930 style of goggles. These were in WWII, but were ... | |
| helmet | 3/25/2010 |
| Q: i have a ww2 style amarican helmet it has B6 on the front of it stenciled in white paint. want to ... A: Mario, it is a WWII helmet and appears to be Navy. The number is probably a code designation. The ... | |
| Identification of pin | 3/25/2010 |
| Q: I hope you can identify this pin for me. All I was told was that it was a vintage Navy nursing pin. ... A: Margaret, The pin is not a Navy Nursing Corps pin. Nurses used the medical caduceus with N centered. ... | |
| WW1 469th Aero Construction Squadron | 3/24/2010 |
| Q: My grandfather served with this unit 1917-1918. Can you tell me where this unit was posted (US or ... A: Bill, You can research your Grandfather's squadron by consulting the Order Battle of American Land ... | |
| M36 Private Purchase Tunic | 3/20/2010 |
| Q: I have just aquired an M36 tunic which was apparently removed from a POW at the end of the war. It ... A: Gary, Who did you acquire the blouse from? The veteran himself or a family member? I wasn't able to ... | |
| titanium body armor? | 3/19/2010 |
| Q: came across a story of russian special forces using titanium plates in their body armor in their ... A: Peter, Yes, there is titanium armor plate body armor. It is capable of stopping most AK-47 rounds ... | |
| medals | 3/19/2010 |
| Q: Attached is a picture of five medals from an estate. All of the medals are engraved as follows: ... A: Michael, You are correct. These are Army Distinguished Marksman badges for members of U.S. Army ... | |
| Military Uniform _question 1 | 3/17/2010 |
| Q: Attached is a picture of my grandfather from about 1940-1944. Can you tell me if it's a Merchant ... A: Michael, This is a naval uniform. Captain, possibly line, but I can't really see the corps device ... | |
| Crimean war | 3/15/2010 |
| Q: I need help to validate a family story. An extract from the booklet "The Horton family of Marrawah" ... A: Skurrie, The sword belt is a good lead, however, it doesn't explain the bible entry of his being ... | |
| 7th Inf. Div. Bayonet Infantry Badge (Army) | 3/14/2010 |
| Q: Oniell, During my tour in Korea (Camp Casey and Camp Hovey) 1970-1971 with HHC, 2/31 Inf. and HHC, ... A: Alex I haven't run across one of those either. Since it was a divisional award, it probably wasn't ... | |
| Trying to figure out what these patches mean | 3/14/2010 |
| Q: While going through a ton of stuff my Grandma gave me, I stumbled across these patches and believe ... A: Jennifer, Thanks for the photographs, it makes identification much easier. I'll take them in order. ... | |
| Crimean war | 3/14/2010 |
| Q: I need help to validate a family story. An extract from the booklet "The Horton family of Marrawah" ... A: Skurrie, I'm sorry about the confusion, I forgot red looks black in the old tintype. I've gone back ... | |
| Cannon Ball Markings | 3/13/2010 |
| Q: My friends mom was cleaning out the basement and found a cannon ball that she had dug up in the back ... A: Michelle, First things first; is there plug anywhere on the ball? If there is you may have a live ... | |
| Military Patches, Buttons & Pins | 3/11/2010 |
| Q: My grandfather died last year and we found out that he has kept EVERYTHING. Right now I'm trying to ... A: Sarah, It's hard to see all the patches and insignia. I'll give you what I can see. 1a the patch ... | |
| Crimean war | 3/10/2010 |
| Q: I need help to validate a family story. An extract from the booklet "The Horton family of Marrawah" ... A: Skurrie, I believe it may possibly be the uniform of the 17th Lancers. I've compared Jame's uniform ... | |
| coat | 3/9/2010 |
| Q: I have a O.D. coat and the proof marks are a circle with a K inside of it, and that is done in white ... A: Mario, Please send me photographs! My email owilliamoneill@comcast.net jpeg works great. The three ... | |
| Mystery Ribbon | 3/8/2010 |
| Q: Sorry to bother you again. Since I sent you the picture of the mystery ribbon, I actually found a ... A: Penny, You've got me not letting it rest! I've seen this ribbon before! It is not U.S. and does not ... | |
| US Army April 1946 | 3/8/2010 |
| Q: First of all, thank you for your time. Secondly, I am trying to gather all of my deceased father's ... A: Judy, MOS stands for Military Occupational Specialty- the job he did. 405 is the code for that job. ... | |
| British Uniforms | 3/7/2010 |
| Q: I wonder if you can help me identify the uniform one of my ancestors is wearing. Date unknown. Photo ... A: Gillian, Your ancestor appears to be wearing a Volunteer Rifle Corps uniform. The uniform appears to ... | |
| WWII Ribbons - no Medals | 3/6/2010 |
| Q: My deceased father was a Tech 5 Mechanic in the 2nd (Indianhead) Division in WWII. I know that ... A: Penny, Many veterans are reluctant to talk about the whys and wherefores of what they did during ... | |
| Swagger stick | 3/4/2010 |
| Q: Can you please confirm the identify and date this old bamboo swagger stick I own? Image is attached. ... A: Jane, There areseveral websites you can search. I found diggerhistory.com and empire.uk.com very ... | |
| Swagger stick | 3/3/2010 |
| Q: Can you please confirm the identify and date this old bamboo swagger stick I own? Image is attached. ... A: Jane, The swagger stick could be pre-1920's; Regimental insignia engravings generally used the cap ... | |
| Combat Infantrymans Badge | 3/2/2010 |
| Q: I am preparing a mannequin wearing an enlisted mans A class uniform four pocket tunic to represent a ... A: Tom, The regulations are vague on that point. I've WWII soldiers wearing the CIB above and on the ... | |
| Help Me Identify this Patch | 3/1/2010 |
| Q: My grandfather recently passed away and when going through his locker I found this patch. He served ... A: Troy, I have not forgotten you! I have had no success in identifying your grandfather's unit! It is ... | |
| George Johnson | 3/1/2010 |
| Q: Bill Sorry to be a nuisance,but i have tried everywhere today to find out more about my Great Uncles ... A: Christine, You might check the Royal Artillery Museum; I think it is in Woolwich. Yes, The Royal ... | |
| identifying the uniform | 2/28/2010 |
| Q: I have a photo of my Great Uncle,George Johnson,who was born in Bellary,India 1893.I know nothing ... A: Christine, Your Great Uncle is wearing the walking out uniform of the Royal Artillery worn from ... | |
| WW1 flying status | 2/26/2010 |
| Q: I have the uniforms (3)of an enlisted Signal Corp man. Enlisted Apr. 1898. Served in China 1900-01, ... A: George, Yes, He may have been an observer at some point in his career. You would need to retrieve ... | |
| WWI - 673 Aero Support Squadron | 2/25/2010 |
| Q: I have a great grandfather who served as a cook in the 673 Aero Support Squadron in WWI. What can ... A: Richard, Off the top of my head I'm not sure where the 673 Aero Support Squadron was located. ... | |
| brass 4 stars | 2/25/2010 |
| Q: Bill, why are some Generals four star collar row, gold colored (brass) while others are sometimes ... A: Jerry, All Flag officers of the U.S. Armed forces wear silver stars. The practice began in the ... | |
| To Hell and Back uniforms | 2/17/2010 |
| Q: In the movie To Hell and Back The 3rd Infantry Division didn't were WW2 jackets that you ussually ... A: Jon, Yes, the uniforms are correct. This film was made shortly after the war. Hollywood obtained ... | |
| 82nd Division- WWI | 2/15/2010 |
| Q: I'm looking for a book (yearbook) that maybe the 82nd Division's Military Police Company may have ... A: Kenton, I have never seen a WWI 82nd Divisional-history. It does not mean they did not produce write ... | |
| who's emblem is? | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: Scull penetrated by dagger written phrase -comandos - on top rangers knife- under thanx in ... A: Igor, It is difficult to give an answer without a photograph.This sounds like souvenir type marking ... | |
| WWI field cap | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: I have a field cap from my grandfather who served with the American Expedionary forces in Russia in ... A: Craig, A photpgraph of the cap would help narrow down the possibilities. I can say it is not an ... | |
| WWII Distinctive Unit Insignia | 2/13/2010 |
| Q: I'm trying to identify a couple of WWII military pins from a deceased family member. The pins have ... A: Steve, A picture would help me a lot. You can send to my private email owilliamoneill@comcast.net. A ... | |
| Armored Infantry | 2/10/2010 |
| Q: What was the purpose of an Armored Infantry Battalions and Regiments in WW2? Were they just like ... A: Jon, Armored infantry operated like straight leg infantry once they dismounted from their vehicles. ... | |
| Dog Tag possibility | 2/9/2010 |
| Q: I have a circular disk, probably aluminim, with one hole, One side has a name (first and last) with ... A: Malcom, It's a World War I dog tag. Serial numbers were introduced in 1917 at the suggestion of the ... | |
| Possible WWII Insignias and Patch | 2/9/2010 |
| Q: I'm not sure about these pieces that I inherited several years ago. They were in a box I put up and ... A: Steve, Thanks for the photograph, it makes things so much easier. I'll take the insignia in order: ... | |
| Military (?) Uniform | 2/7/2010 |
| Q: Attached please find photo of young man in uniform. Do you think this is a U.S. Military uniform ... A: Sandy, The uniform dates around 1902 and the soldier is possibly Coast Artillery. The open wreath is ... | |
| flying tigers question | 2/6/2010 |
| Q: is it true that the flying tigers did not come up against the A6M2 zero in their theatre of war? it ... A: Peter, They flew against both types. The Zero was usually flown by naval pilots. The army flew a ... | |
| Help to identify a uniform | 2/3/2010 |
| Q: I am hoping you may be able to help me on the attached uniform, it is a picture of my great uncle ... A: Denise, The uniform is British khaki service dress. I can't make out the medals on the blouse; they ... | |
| uniform identification | 2/3/2010 |
| Q: Can you give me any clues about the uniform in this picture? I have several soldier ancestors and I ... A: Alison, Many thanks for the photograph. Tunics of the 1850-1900 era were decorated with black braid ... | |
| Military uniform | 2/1/2010 |
| Q: This is a picture of my Great Grandfather John Henry Cave (B.1874)Detroit, MI at age 21. Is this an ... A: Bill, Many thanks for the picture it makes things so much easier. In answer to your first question, ... | |
| Uncle | 1/30/2010 |
| Q: Do You know anything about my uncle Ralph L Turtura Staff Sergeant Company 1 26th infantry World war ... A: Cody, Company I 26th Infantry was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, the Big Red One. The First ... | |
| citation accompanying medals awarded wwII | 1/29/2010 |
| Q: My father CPL. FRED W. ADKINS, was with 13th Infantry regiment, 8th Infantry division US ARMY , He ... A: Mel, To find what you are looking is difficult, but not impoosible; you can request his service ... | |
| pin of unknown origin | 1/29/2010 |
| Q: i have two pins exactly alike that i have had for a long time. we believe them to be either my ... A: Jayson, Can you send me photograph of the pins? My private email is owilliamoneill@comcast.net jpeg ... | |
| My grandfathers WWII patches | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: I had a couple of quesitons regarding my grandfather's service. Most notably, i am confused as to ... A: Ryan, The blue shield white heart is the XXIV Corps patch. Your Grandad may have served in the 8th ... | |
| Red Ball | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: We recently came across a little red ball with swastika's on it when renovating our house. It is ... A: chrissy, A photograph would help to identify it. It sounds like a Nazi Party lapel pin worn by Nazi ... | |
| Swagger Stick | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: Can you identify a swagger stick? It has a ball on top that has a horse over a flag that says KINGS. ... A: Dennis, Thanks for the picture! It makes things so much easier! Your swagger stick belonged to an ... | |
| Swagger Stick | 1/22/2010 |
| Q: Can you identify a swagger stick? It has a ball on top that has a horse over a flag that says KINGS. ... A: Dennis, a photograph would help. Swagger sticks, though used by officers and NCOs of the British ... | |
| Red-coat officer uniform | 1/20/2010 |
| Q: I'm not sure if you can help me identify this red coat uniform, but I have very little knowledge on ... A: daniel, Thanks for the photograph. I approached the problem from another direction. You can date a ... | |
| Red-coat officer uniform | 1/19/2010 |
| Q: I'm not sure if you can help me identify this red coat uniform, but I have very little knowledge on ... A: daniel, The coat appears to be Napoleonic War or slightly later; I'll compare the picture against ... | |
| ww1 pins | 1/18/2010 |
| Q: I have just been given a shield shaped presentation box (with an ebroidered us flag) full of my ... A: Caroline, Photographs of the items would help me give a more definitve answer.The crossed rifles ... | |
| pin | 1/14/2010 |
| Q: I don't think this is a DUI pin. Any ideas on what it might be? A: Craig, You're right it's not a DUI. It is probably the emblem of one of the towns in Normandy. Check ... | |
| Gold and Silver Spread Winged Eagle Pin | 1/14/2010 |
| Q: Among my grandparents personal belongings, I found a gold and silver spread winged eagle pin which ... A: Allen, I've never seen one of these insignia. It could be a sweetheart pin. The chevron is ... | |
| Military uniform | 1/13/2010 |
| Q: I was just wondering if you new what the history was on the green flash of the green beret for 10th ... A: Ryan, I've done some checking, there is no definitive answer on the Special Forces beret flash. The ... | |
| 1916 canteen | 1/11/2010 |
| Q: I have a canteen dated 1916. It also has the words OBER. ISRAEL stamped beside the date... The ... A: Bart, Can you email a photo of the canteen? Jpeg. works fine. You can send it to my email ... | |
| pin | 1/10/2010 |
| Q: never talked to my dad about the war now i wish i had anyway i have 2 questions on has European ... A: George, The stars are known as battle stars. They signify your Dad served in three campaigns. I ... | |
| NH vol milita uniform -WITH PHOTO! | 1/9/2010 |
| Q: here is photo to go with my previous question NHVM Hello, I would appreciate your help! I have this ... A: Kurt, This uniform appears to be a regimental uniform. This style uniform was not worn on campaign. ... | |
| CIVIL WAR NEW HAMPSHIRE VOL MILITIA UNIFORM | 1/9/2010 |
| Q: I would appreciate your help! I have this civil war jacket for many years which is supposed to be ... A: Kurt, You are correct that the jacket dates to the 1840's-1860s. This uniform was not worn in the ... | |
| Navy Chevron | 1/7/2010 |
| Q: why is the navy chevron pointed down wards when the other armed forces are pointed upwards? A: Jasmine, At onr point all chevrons were pointed downwards. The Navy adopted the current system of ... | |
| 1903 springfield 30 06 | 1/5/2010 |
| Q: I have a 1903 springfield but know nothing about if it is original or reworked or the date in which ... A: Bill, You have rebarreled '03 Springfield Rifle. The bursting bomb is for the U.S. Army Ordnance ... | |
| Identify uniform | 12/28/2009 |
| Q: Would you be able to identify the uniform in the below picture? ... A: Giles, Yes, your ancestor as an observer would ride in the back of an aircraft and photograph enemy ... | |
| Americans in the British Army | 12/25/2009 |
| Q: My question is that did some Americans serve in the British Army in WW1? ANSWER: Jon, Yes, quite a ... A: Jon, Many Americans joined the British Army over Germany's invasion of Belgium. Germany's actions ... | |
| Americans in the British Army | 12/24/2009 |
| Q: My question is that did some Americans serve in the British Army in WW1? A: Jon, Yes, quite a few. Many Americans in Europe at the time the war began, joined the British and ... | |
| Cannonball question | 12/22/2009 |
| Q: I have what someone told me was a half pound swivel cannonball dated around 1775 to 1812. This ... A: David, It's possible; keep in mind that swivel guns were used through the late nineteenth century. ... | |
| 20 lb cannonball | 12/21/2009 |
| Q: Greetings, I am interested in a cannonball, was told it is revolutionary/war of 1812, but ... A: David, It may be a cannon ball from a naval vessel. Ships-of-the-line and frigates carried ... | |
| nazi flag | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: Do you mean what is the background colour by "field" it is navy blue. The closest i could find was ... A: Adam, first my apolgies for not noticing that you were in merry old england. I had thought that your ... | |
| APO 343 | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: My father was in the 4th Ind Hq 8th Army APO 343 in 1945-46 and I am trying to locate any ... A: Rochelle, It appears that your Dad may have been assigned to 8th army engineer headquarters that ... | |
| APO 343 | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: My father was in the 4th Ind Hq 8th Army APO 343 in 1945-46 and I am trying to locate any ... A: Rochelle, I'm not sure what unit your dad was in. 4th Infantry Division Headquarters? The Eighth ... | |
| German armband | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: I have an armband with a sewn on patch that has the swastika on it. I have the tag that is marked D ... A: Jack, A photograph of the items would really help identifying the pieces. The armband indicates it ... | |
| uniform/ person identification | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: Any info regarding the type/ era etc of this uniform and/or individual would be greatly appreciated. ... A: Les, Apparently, My original answer did not make it through the pipeline. First the uniform appears ... | |
| german bayonet | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: William. I have a bayonet that my father brought back from WW II in Europe. I always thought it was ... A: Bill, Simson made many blades.They were all for the K98 Rifle. Your friend's Mauser may not be ... | |
| unknown dui ww2 | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: I have spent literally hours and hours researching the dui I have attached an image of. If you have ... A: Barb, I'm sorry! It has me stumped also. How did you come by the DUI? This may be an unauthorized ... | |
| German Mauser Rifle | 11/29/2009 |
| Q: After my father died, I inherited his deer hunting rifle. It is a Mauser Model 98, 8mm, that has the ... A: Frank, The hh is the manufactures' code. The German military assigned letters to various makers of ... | |
| Military Patch Id | 11/27/2009 |
| Q: Can you ID this patch? A: Mark, Sorry I took so long to answer. I'm stumped! I've referenced every insignia book and website, ... | |
| PA army national guard flags | 11/24/2009 |
| Q: Do you have a description or picture of the flag that would fly in Iraq that would signify the ... A: Rena, There is no Pennsylvania National Guard per se. State National Guards would use the U.S. flag, ... | |
| Dog tag | 11/23/2009 |
| Q: I am hoping you can assist me. With the use of metal detector, I found what may be a dog tag on the ... A: Theresa, The first tag is a dog tag from World War I.There were several styles of identification ... | |
| Parade Images | 11/19/2009 |
| Q: I am a University student from England and I was wondering if you could help me with some of my ... A: Andy, The pictures are very faint. I cannot positively identify the people on the horses as military ... | |
| Signal Corps or Replacement Depot | 11/18/2009 |
| Q: You may of answered my question, but my wife deleted my mail! so to make sure I will ask again! My ... A: Dennis, The insignia your Dad would have worn depends on whether he was DETAILED or TRANSFERRED to ... | |
| Military Insignia | 11/16/2009 |
| Q: can you please help me identify what I beleive is a military insignia? I have inherited a silver ... A: Anthony, No, I don't believe I've seen that monogram before. It doesn't appear to be military. If I ... | |
| Military Insignia | 11/16/2009 |
| Q: can you please help me identify what I beleive is a military insignia? I have inherited a silver ... A: Anthony, I'm sorry, but I've also drawn a blank. There are no current British Army Cap Badges that ... | |
| old family photos of uniforms | 11/11/2009 |
| Q: another pic 010 A: Amanda, The uniforms worn by your ancestors are M-1911 olive drab wool uniforms with the M-1911 ... | |
| Castle pin from WW 11 | 11/11/2009 |
| Q: I found a Castle pin in a box of my uncles items. Also his wings. I have a picture w/ those wings ... A: Pam, You are correct that the castle pin is the branch insignia of the Army Corps of Engineers. What ... | |
| civil war military record | 11/11/2009 |
| Q: Do have any information about Frederick A Aiken?-He was an aide-Col.with General Hancock. A: Mr. Swingle, I consulted David M Jordan's biography on Major General Hancock and none of his staff ... | |
| American Civil War ADC's | 11/9/2009 |
| Q: I model the ACW and I recently bought a box of figures (Union General Staff. One figure was ... A: Rick, ADC is the acronym for Aid-de-Camp. An aid is a general officer's personal assistant and ... | |
| WWII General Orders #33 1945 | 11/7/2009 |
| Q: Having trouble understanding the scope of GO #33 WD 1945. I understand the acronyms, but does this ... A: David, General Order#33 only covers the EAME and PTO Campaign Medals. The "as amended" means that ... | |
| WWI era uniform | 11/7/2009 |
| Q: I have a photo of my father from about 1915. I have not been able to identify the uniform or to ... A: Jerrold, Your Dad is wearing a U.S. Navy uniform. The collar insignia is that of a Chief Machinist. ... | |
| Uniform date and regiment | 11/5/2009 |
| Q: My appologies I forgot to attach the picture!!! Im interested in the approx date and regiment or ... A: Linda, The uniform is British Army, Pattern 1907-1912; I would guess this photograph was taken ... | |
| Naming and dating uniform | 11/5/2009 |
| Q: I have 2 pictures in my family history that im trying to match to relatives. I will send them to you ... A: Linda, The uniform is a Hussar regiment uniform of the British Army. I would date this photograph ... | |
| WWII 42nd Div my father | 10/25/2009 |
| Q: My father is listed in the official roster of the 42nd division as of December 13, 1944, as a ... A: Mike, Task Force Linden, was named after Brigadier General Henning Linden. You would need access to ... | |
| world war 1 | 10/23/2009 |
| Q: was germany in bad shape before world war 1 A: Kristen, No, Germany was a leading economic power in the years preceding World War I. One of the ... | |
| simson co bayonet | 10/21/2009 |
| Q: i bought a simson co ww1 butcher blade bayonet that has a cut down rounded blade. looks like a big ... A: Jerry, This is a German made bayonet for the Prussian army. They were called "butcher's blade" ... | |
| military arm braids | 10/21/2009 |
| Q: In a recent "trash hunting" expedition,I found 2 military arm braids,I was hoping you would able to ... A: Kurt, To be 100% sure, can you send a photograph to the allexperts web site? The green and red ... | |
| ww2 us airborne 501 pocket patch | 10/18/2009 |
| Q: Mr O'Neill, a little while ago i bought en 501 pocket patch from ww2. it is a round patch with an ... A: Henk, You have post-WWII patch. Apache was never on the original insignia. The original Apache chief ... | |
| 483rd Engineering Maintenance Company | 10/15/2009 |
| Q: My Uncle Jose Marquez was in the Army in the 483rd Engineering Maintenance Company in France from ... A: Emilie, An Engineering Maintenance Company repaired, checked and replaced Engineer equipment damaged ... | |
| Insignia | 10/13/2009 |
| Q: Please can you help me identify a badge on body armour? The cloth badge is black, with the numbers ... A: Mark, What type of body armor? Modern flak jackets or breastplate? A picture would help me more ... | |
| Spanish Armada crockery | 10/12/2009 |
| Q: I'm doing some research for a novel about the Spanish in the 1600s, and I need to know about the ... A: Caro, Ships of that period had the name of the ship painted on the stern of the ship. Sometimes the ... | |
| german military uniform | 10/12/2009 |
| Q: I bought a uniform at a local auction house. I,am trying to find out if its authentic.There is an ... A: Randy, Can you send me photographs of the tunic? World War II German uniforms have a history of not ... | |
| Okinawa | 10/12/2009 |
| Q: Is there any way to find out which Army units were in the Yomitan area of Okinawa during the month ... A: Dorothy, General histories of the Battle of Okinawa should give you an idea of who was where. ... | |
| Spanish Armada crockery | 10/11/2009 |
| Q: I'm doing some research for a novel about the Spanish in the 1600s, and I need to know about the ... A: Caro, Good question! I'm a little weak on my Spanish Armada knowledge, but will attempt to answer. ... | |
| About the movie Glory | 10/11/2009 |
| Q: Why is the movie Glory so important to American History? A: Zendra, I don't know if the movie Glory is to American history, The movie is essentially the telling ... | |
| 50 cal ammo can | 9/29/2009 |
| Q: I have a metal can marked CHEST AMMUNITION,CAL 50,M17 D39091. The CHEST part is hard to read . it ... A: Dennis, It appears you have an issue ammunition can for the 50 caliber machinegun. These cans or ... | |
| Definition of Term | 9/13/2009 |
| Q: ON my father's WWII enlistment record it lists "branch" and "branch code" as "Branch Immaterial - ... A: Ron, Branch refers to the organization your Dad served in; From the detail, he appears to have been ... | |
Military History
Answers by Expert:
william oneill
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I can answer questions on uniforms and insignia. General military subjects, British military history & uniforms European armies and histories american militia/national guard all wars weapons, equipment
Experience
I currently work for the National Museum of the Marine Corps as a Collections Management Specialist 2006-Present
My previous position was the Registrar of the Virginia War Museum.
The primary duties at both places was the identification and research of uniforms, insignia, flags, weapons, equipment,and preservation techniques in consultation with conservators.
I wrote didactic panels and labels describing the period particular uniforms and equipment were in use. I served as the expert resource for questions on general military subjects for both U.S. and international military operations for local news media. Consulted with History Channel on camouflage uniforms, assisted other museums in identifying military artifacts in their collections, and have written extensive articles in the Virginia War Museum's newsletter, the Correspondent and given lectures on a vary of military topics relating to the operations of United States forces from 1775-Present.
Organizations
Life Member- Disabled American Veterans
Life Member- Vietnam Veterans of America
Publications
suite101.com
ArticleBase.com
hubpages.com
Virgina War Museum Newsletter Correspondent
Education/Credentials
BA History-Christopher Newport College-1988
MA History Canadidate- Old Dominion University-1990
Certificate- Military Policy and Strategy- Old Dominion University-1991
Past/Present Clients
Virginia War Museum
Virginia War Memorial Museum
U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum
U.S. Army Transportation Museum
Infantry Museum
Ft. Riley Museum
Finance Corps Museum
82nd Airborne Museum
Ft. Wadsworth Harbor Defense Museum
History Channel
Museum of American Heroes (private museum)
Mr. Don Tharpe
Mr. Phil Morton
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