While continuing to inventory the Lloyd J. Andrews Jr. archive, I was able to connect an interesting postwar chapter of the family’s story.   The archive contains a May 31, 1945 letter written to Anne Andrews and signed simply “Jack.” In the letter, Jack describes being stationed in Austria near Berchtesgaden after the war in Europe, recovering from a hospital stay, fishing, hunting, and traveling through Germany and France.   Further research uncovered the obituary of Jack P. Wilson, which states that he married Anne E. McKee on July 18, 1946. The obituary also lists daughter Talitha McKay among the survivors.   The archive also contains a newspaper article showing Anne Andrews and daughter Talitha Ann Andrews receiving Lt. Andrews’ posthumous Distinguished Flying Cross in December 1945.   Taken together, these documents appear to trace the story from Lloyd Andrews’ death in October 1944, through Anne’s widowhood, to her marriage to fellow WWII veteran Jack Wilson in 1946. It may also help explain how the archive remained preserved intact within the family for more than 80 years.   I thought forum members might appreciate this additional piece of the story.

period original 

Thanks. I was getting worried. The copies are so good. 

Very nice.... As a side note.....it looks like PFC Hanscom was squared up against some pretty tough units.  He likely got his map case from 1st Battery of the 1st Battalion, Flak Regiment 11 (I./Flak-Rgt. 11, 1. Bttr.).  They were motorized 88's that fought from 1939 Poland invasion through May 1945.  Most converted mid war from anti-aircraft role to anti-tank role.   In 1945 some surrendered to British/Americans in Austria and most were captured by Soviet Red Army in northwestern Yugoslavia and western Hungary.

Well, that makes sense! thanks

Got this from the grandson who furnished the name    

For many years these hats were undesirable and very low cost so faking them has to be a more recent trend if they fake them at all.   So I think the one you have is period or made soon after the war, why the band is upside down is anyone’s guess.        

Due to time and date differences I’ll wish everyone there in Normandy a great time for the anniversary now.  I look forward to seeing your reports on your experiences.  I’m dedicating my blood donation today to all those who served, fought and bled there. mikie

Ah my friend 'US Navy' David Salisbury! He always attends the Normandy commemorations! Enjoy!

Hi, what s your toughts about these pants  thanks for your help   regzrds, hughes