H/t Brian Benedict
Honoring the past through excellence in the present.
H/t Brian Benedict
H/T Brian Benedict
A nice presentation sent in by Brian Benedict.
https://avhmhome.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/normandylanding1.pps
Contribution by Brian Benedict
<mrduffle@yahoo.com>
https://thedufflebaginc.com/
The Legion of Merit Medal was established by Congressional decree on 20JULY1942.
Most of the nations of the world had a high ranking “Atta Boy” medal that it could award to foreign dignitaries. As our military leaders began interacting with their counterparts in other Allied countries, it became apparent that the United States needed an “Atta Boy” award of its own.
Established in four grades, the top two are awarded ONLY to foreign dignitaries. Chiang Kai-shek received the first CHIEF COMMANDER medal. Brazilian General Amaro Bettencourt recieved the first COMMANDER medal. U.S. Army Captain Ralph B. Praeger was the first recipient of the U.S. “OFFICER” grade medal. Lieutenant Colonel Westry Battle Boyce was the first woman to awarded the Legion of Merit.
Contribution by Brian Benedict
<mrduffle@yahoo.com>
https://thedufflebaginc.com/
The Laffey was a U.S. Navy Destroyer that was hit by SIX Kamikaze airplanes and FOUR bombs in 80 minutes on April 16th, 1945, off Okinawa. IT SURVIVED!!
You can tour the USS Laffey and other naval vessels at Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant, SC.
by Brian Benedict
< info@thedufflebaginc.com>
Brian Benedict is the Director of the American Veterans Historical Museum and proprietor of The Duffle Bag, a family owned and operated business that has been proudly serving the entertainment industry and the public for more than 30 years. Brian has been featured on the History Channel as “The Duffle Bag Man” for his knowledge on World War II Military Memorabilia. Some of his credits include, History Channel, CBS television, Godzilla, and Operation Dumbo Drop.
by Brian Benedict
< info@thedufflebaginc.com>