Here is a controversial Oval attributed to the 503rd. No need to rehash the argument unless it can lead to a definitive answer. Forum members have expressed their opinion as well as several books on the subject of ovals, favoring the 503rd or refuting as such.    

Mark any markings on the otherside? Orientation and placement of SF DOL crest will tell a lot. Although that is the presentation side...It could be a legit sterile early iron guard but the Pak copies also looked similar. But the blade shape does look good. Blade length?

Any help would be awesome!!   Thanks Mark

THIS IS A REPRO CORRECT? I KNOW THEY ARE NOT THE BEST PHOTOS   THANKS mARK

I remember during my deployment another SAW gunner in my company took a round to the 100-round belt bag on his gun (called nutsacks haha).  Here is a image from google. At very minimum it saved his hand!  

Ill be happy to talk to the director and connections I have at my city's military history museum about possibly having it donated and preserved there.  If that's something you'd be interested in, let me know and Ill get in contact with them about it.    Thank you, Hayden

My take on the oval is that it is WWII vintage and US made. I have always considered this one a "generic" as it seems to show up in groupings to soldiers from so many different units. In fact, you will often find this oval glued into patch albums with the title "parachute oval."    I have no issues with this being on a PTO uniform, I would just say that I don't have any experience with it popping up among 503rd groups in any number.   Allan

Looks more like a bullet impact,  but not sure why it didn't go through.   Here's a Pic of some dummy. 50 cal, holes are perfect,  no denting like this one.  Is your bullet a 30.06?

Admins, looks like I should of put this under the what is it sub, if you can move it that would be great or leave it here yall's call.  Not always the best with forums. lol 

Hello Chuck. Thank you for your message. You have a very fine collection. I have great admiration for the Marines who contributed to the liberation of our country. I had the privilege of seeing the bronze mastiff head that earned the Marines the nickname "Devil's Dogs" during the fierce fighting at Belleau Wood. Do you know where I could find information on a Marine named E.F. Hamilton who must have been part of the Marine Corps in the years 1915/1920? God Bless America