Hello!

[Valerio]

Hello everyone,
 

I’m writing to you from Italy! I’ve been a long-time enthusiast of military history, a passion that is deeply rooted in my family’s heritage.

 

My interest started with the story of my great-grandfather, who served in an elite unit of the Italian Army (Arditi) during World War I. Knowing he was part of such a specialized group has always made the history of that era feel very personal to me.

 

Additionally, I have a relative who collaborated closely with the United States Navy. Thanks to him, I was gifted a fascinating collection of US military blades. It’s the centerpiece of my collection, and I’m always looking to learn more about the specific history and craftsmanship behind these pieces.

 

I joined this forum to connect with fellow collectors, share insights, and perhaps get some help identifying specific items in the future. I'm looking forward to contributing to the community!

 

Best regards,

Valerio

[aerialbridge]

Benvenuto!  Hope to see your collection of US Military blades, particularly swords.    I have 2 USN M1872 WWI era named swords, both with interesting history.   My great uncle was a 30 year old mustang USNR ensign assigned to a 5" battery on USS Arizona when it was two-years old in 1918, and later to a mine layer in the North Sea near the end of the war.   The other sword belonged to Captain Irving Reynolds Chambers,  the only son of the "Father of US Naval Aviation",  Captain Washington Irving Chambers.   The son was a submariner and during WWII commanded USS Concord (CL10) when it took RADM Richard Byrd on a top secret mission to the South Pacific in 1943 to scout out airfield locations. 

 

https://archive.org/details/NPC-3094

 

[Valerio]

That is an incredible piece of history!

 

As for my collection, I have quite an extensive set of items from my great-grandfather, though that is all Italian equipment from his time in the elite units. However, I will make sure to post photos of the US military knives very soon!

 

They were given to me by my relative who collaborated with the US Navy; I’m still trying to figure out exactly what his role was, but the combat knives he left me are remarkable. Looking forward to sharing them with you all!

[aerialbridge]

Wonderful!  As you probably know this website has a sister website for posting militaria from other countries, where you could post your Italian items.  Look forward to seeing your postings!    And you're the first person I've spoke to from the famous city of Turin!

[Valerio]

It's a pleasure! I'll post very soon!