AEF Service Coat 35th Div. w/ Specialty Mark (Observer)

[jayhawkhenry]

Has anyone come across a black triangle like this before?

[WW2JAKE]

[rolfi]

This was captioned as Company I of the 139th Infantry; possibly in error the divisional patch doesn't look to be in the black and yellow of that regiment. The triangle could well be black and has the letter B, what it signifies- no idea.

[jayhawkhenry]

Very interesting photo. The uniform I have is named to Frances W. Fry, Co B, 140th Inf. I wonder if the black triangle is a company designation?

[scmcgeorge]

The black triangle denotes an observer in the regimental intelligence section. I have written references, but this is first I have seen of an actual example. Scouts wore a square and Snipers a circle. These specailty marks were to be worn on the left sleeve. So far as I know 35th Division is the only unit in the AEF that prescribed these speciality marks. This is a lift from CAC specialty patches, Steve McG

[jayhawkhenry]

Outstanding! This is great information. Thank you for sharing your knowledge Steve.

 

[jayhawkhenry]

Just an up date on this item. I had not noticed the Gas mask bag is also marked with the black triangle. Pvt. Fry was proud of his designation.

[Milkshake]

Believing that George is right, you might have one hell of a rare item on your hands.

[jayhawkhenry]

It is a great grouping, I am happy to have found it. His Victory medal

[Bill K]

Could this be another shot of the specialty marks in use? It's hard to say if these are 35th Division guys or 33rd.