My father was 3rd Army, 5th Infantry, 19th FAB.  He served from Dec 39 to July 45.  He was a Tech 4th Class. He was a forward observer and was awarded the Silver Star.  I have most of the medals he earned.  He passed away in 1998.  I want to make sure that he received everything he earned.  From what I've read he was not eligible for the CIB since he was assigned to an artillery unit even though he was with the infantry his entire time in Europe.  My first question is he was awarded a Certificate of Merit for "for distinctive service in connection with operations against the enemy from 13 July 44 to 20 October 44 in France."  I've heard that this certificate could be upgraded to a medal.  Does anyone know if that is possible?  Any info would be appreciated.   Ken Pillion

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Aloha!

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See Find-a-Grave # 107270211 for Delbert F. Gearhart's memorial.

Not a Steel Helmet obviously, but a kind of what? crash helmet? Interesting, AG 44 and Gold, photo makes it kind of light tan colored on dome, but its Gold, Don't think I ever seen one like this, at first glance of the normal sized image before I enlarged it, I though GI was wearing a 50s 70s Pro Ball Baseball Batters Helmet, LOL Cant find other images of this type.   Photo is from 1976 post not given nor MP unit.

Amerigo John Mariotti

Here’s a link to a NY Times article detailing that Wilson was added to the Caterpillar Club in 1929 

I've always wondered about the "chaplain/rabbi" versions of jump wings--whether or not they actually existed.  Considering a jump wing was awarded for the successful completion of jump qualification and the total independence of the branch of service (religion) insignia. A chaplain would already have his insignia--what would be the purpose of slapping a cross on a jump wing?  Would they even care, it's not like they weren't already serving a much higher calling and felt the need to drag even more attention to themselves..     It just seems to me that someone is trying way too hard.... a jump wing, a chaplain's cross, a combat jump star all on an English-made wing with a (more than likely) fantasy hallmark. Someone got into the unicorn juice.... The only thing missing is some sort of hinkey engraving on the back   I may be wrong, but it seems that this is one of those things that only collectors would dream up. 

Thanks for the response.... I think they're made out of brass and something else. I'm trying to help a friend research them. They were his uncles and I think he has a picture of his uncle with them after he won them or something... I was able to find a featherweight belt on ima But it was sold and there was no price.... Thanks again