Charlie Flick Posted May 31, 2020 #1 Posted May 31, 2020 Gents: While not really an "edged weapon", I don't think anyone will object if I post this one here. I have owned this letter opener for many years. About 11 years ago I posted it to one of the Insignia subforums here on the site to find out what that crest was all about. I learned that it was the insignia of the 349th Infantry Regiment, a component of the famous 88th Division, the "Blue Devils". The 349th had fought a bloody and difficult war in Italy during WW2. Thus, my guess is that this souvenir letter opener was purchased by a 349th veteran while in Italy. It is probably not something which he wanted to send home to Mom. Rather, I think the soldier figured that this was a souvenir that he wanted to keep for himself, or maybe as a gift to a younger brother. Composed of cast aluminum these naked lady letter openers were a popular item for GIs with time and money on their hands. Our friend and fellow member Frank Trzaska posted pics of a nearly identical opener on his site just this past month. That post can be found here: http://www.usmilitaryknives.com/current_knotes.htm Reading Frank's Knife Knotes reminded me of my own example and prompted me to post it here. Regards, Charlie
Frank Trzaska Posted June 1, 2020 #2 Posted June 1, 2020 Excellent example Charlie, I have a few but have never seen one with a DI on it, bravo!
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now