ARC Military Welfare Service workers were assigned to major commands throughout the ETO and other theaters.  In the ground units, particularly Infantry Divisions, they stayed just behind the lines but had selected trained representatives (infantrymen) who would bring welfare messages to the troops in the field when in contact with the enemy forces.  They also trained rescue swimmers in the assault units who would dive in, unstrap a soldiers pack, webgear, etc. and get them to the surface during amphibious landings and major river crossings.                      

I have that book, really interesting reading.  I've known a few people who could teach that course.

Sometimes you just have to buy them. I don't need them , I really don't have the space, I'm supposed to be winding down the business towards retiring as I edge ever closer to 70 later this year but sometimes things are just crying out to be bought.   Came across 3 large box fulls of mainly US WW2 and Post WW2 TM manuals covering a whole range of vehicles. Over 60 different in total although most are 1950's dated. Just a small selection of WW2 dated ones.   

As a follow up, Chickrell received the Bronze Star per GO #87 June 1945.

Someone else has the jacket.    I was lucky enough to meet with magnusons grandson 😆 

Just came across this post while researching a dog tag that has stumped me till the Morning Reports were digitized.   Phil Chickrell is Philip Sidney Chickrell of Fairmont, WV. He was HQ/327. 

Actually, I started carrying a issued WW2 .45 when I was a spec 4 M60 gunner. When I made E6 squad leader, I put a U.S. black holster on my web and carried my personal .45. No body ever questioned it. Blue cord pack mule for Uncle Sam. lol

I just bought a pair of sterling wings with the H in a circle.  Mine have the markings on the back side of the wing and the canopy is hallowed out.  I was wondering if this is any different than the ones mentioned above? The pin on mine is attached differently too.  I only paid $43.00 so I think I got a good deal with them being post war but still having a nice pin on the back.

Yes. I think they are of interest to some collectors. 

All of you stop it. Making my back hurt more reading it all over again.