Thank you for correcting me. I forgot the about the different rank system in the 40s. And I use the link as a future reference.

Looks great, nice job on the cleanup!

If this is a photo from 1945, the chevrons shown are for a Technical Sergeant, not a First Sergeant.   Enlisted insignia history is shown on the Institute of Heraldry site here  -     https://tioh.army.mil/Catalog/HeraldryMulti.aspx?CategoryId=9168&grp=2&menu=Uniformed Services   Larry

A Philippines-based eBay seller has just posted over 20 fake made-in-Vietnam lighters. Here’s an example:     The poor quality engraving and black paint-filled lettering should immediately raise suspicions. Plus the usual nonsensical saying is on the reverse:     And, of course, the bottom has a totally messed up and engraved Zippo trademark:     Now in fairness to the seller these nasty fakes are selling for Buy It Now prices of $15 each plus $6 shipping AND it is clearly stated in the title that the lighter is “Not Zippo”. But, much less clear to the new collector is that the descriptive text does NOT clearly state that these lighters are reproductions. Once again, buyer beware.    

More from the Fort Benning tank demonstration          

this is true. And it’s really cool to see odd ball photos like this. I wish I could make out the ribbons he has on, It looks too far to tell. Might make a copy and get it on my wall. I think it would be kind of cool to use it as a reference. 

A lovely piece of aviation history and a miniature work of art by the jeweler. The WW1 wings are not cheap by any means and it's a mine field out there trying to find a real one but when you do the quality of craftsmanship is outstanding. I love collecting WW2 items and that's my main area of concentration but I really treasure the few WW1 wings I've been able to add to my collection. And I share Duncan's wonder of new items still coming out of the woodwork. Fascinating that these thing are still cropping up and an attributed piece as well. It has found a good home and you are a very lucky man.

When you find a one-of-a-kind, or at least incredibly scarce, uniform / patch related photo, you do not overpay at 30.00. Where else are you going to find one?...

I tried to research any Ikes with group/squadron patches on them and I came up empty handed. I paid $30 for it which I’m assuming I overpaid. But I thought I would never see another one like it again. I would also find it funny and would love to see this photo in a reference book.

Feel free to post them here if you like. I would love to see anybody’s wheels, EOTs and binnacles!!!