This Page is designed to give prospective recruits the information they will need in order to decide if this unit is for them. It is recommended that all such individuals read this section entirely before deciding to join. We have considerably higher standards than your average reenactment unit. The way we play the game is definitely not for the faint of heart.
The purpose of this unit is to portray the fighting men of the 101st Airborne during World War II. To honor this division and the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, our authenticity in uniforms and equipment standards will be of the highest standard both in the field and in barracks. In the spirit of the Airborne, our physical standards are high to ensure safety, endurance, and the proper Airborne image. These standards are not meant to deter prospective members, but to outline the expectations that we have of our membership. Only by creating and maintaining such high standards in uniform, equipment, and attitude can we respectfully represent the veterans of the 101st Airborne Division.
The unit is attached to the Texas Military Historical Society, a tax-exempt, non-profit, non-political organization intended for those who wish to study and attempt to experience life in the United States Military during World War II. Our impressions are those of the combat soldier only; political motivations or activities are strictly forbidden in the TMHS and in this unit.
These Bylaws and Standard Operating Procedures are the standards by which the unit will conduct itself in order to affect our stated purpose. All Bylaws and rules will be strictly upheld. If at any time the Officers, Board, or general membership wish to amend the Bylaws and SOPs, the proposed changes shall be submitted in writing to the unit and a vote by the full membership will be held. The proposed changes will require an 80% majority of the members in good standing in order to be accepted by the unit.
Membership Requirements
Being a unit under the TMHS, the 502nd of the 101st ABN requires that all of its members adhere to all membership requirements described in Article 3 of the TMHS bylaws in addition to the requirements listed in Articles 1-3 of this document. All members of the 502nd PIR must maintain concurrent membership in the TMHS. Failure to adhere to any of these requirements is grounds for dismissal from the unit.
In order to maintain the 502nd's standards, a high level of devotion is expected from its membership. The 502nd must be the only TMHS unit that the member is affiliated with.
Anyone wishing to join the 502nd must submit an application in writing (to be provided by the secretary) and be voted upon as a probationary member by the unit. The applicant must receive 80% support from the unit membership in order to be accepted as a probationary member. Probationary membership ends upon the attainment of Equipment level one and at least 1 year of membership in the unit.
Members must be at least 17 years of age and must not have a felony conviction or a misdemeanor conviction involving domestic violence.
Membership Status
When a probationary member attains equipment level one and at least 1 year of membership in the unit, they become a Member in Good Standing as long as they have attended 50% of the events in the last year. If they have attended less than 50% of the events they become an associate member. As a Member in Good Standing, they are granted voting status in the unit to be exercised at all unit meetings. If a Member in Good Standing fails to attend 50% of the events for a reenacting season, they are automatically moved to Associate Membership. An Associate Member enjoys all of the privileges of the unit in the field and within the unit. The only difference between an Associate Member and a Member in Good Standing is voting privilege and the ability to hold rank. Associate Members are not allowed to vote on unit business. If an Associate Member attends 50% or more of the events in the last calendar year, they are automatically moved back to Member in Good Standing Status.
The 101st Airborne wishes to maintain a very high level of character and code of ethics.
If a member commits a serious act that would tarnish the reputation of the unit the board will convene as soon as possible and decide on action. Examples of serious acts are: felonies under the criminal code, striking another reenactor in anger without cause, intentional safety violations, etc...
Members may be suspended or expelled from the unit as punishment.
Unit Dues
In addition to mandatory TMHS dues, each member of the 502nd PIR is required to pay annual dues of $20, payable prior to the first scheduled TMHS tactical event of the season. Upon payment of dues, a member becomes a "member in good standing" subject to the uniform, equipment, and participation requirements of the unit. The purpose of dues is to provide a mechanism to purchase goods and equipment for unit activities. Among the priority items are: loaner uniforms, tentage, display equipment, web gear, vehicle and crew served weapon maintain, recruiting events and publishing expenses.
Individuals joining the unit in the middle of a season will have their dues prorated to the end of the season.
Individuals attending an event for the first time are exempt from paying both TMHS and unit dues. Annual dues may be increased by obtaining a simple majority in a general membership vote.
Administrative Organization
The 502nd PIR of the TMHS will be organized on two levels: tactical organization, where commanders are chosen based on procedures outlined in Articles II and III, and administrative organization, where unit officers are chosen by popular election.
This election will take place at the Summer Soldier's School (described in Article II) and offices will be held for one, two-year term. A simple majority vote will be sufficient to elect a particular office. In the event that no one candidate receives a simple majority, the two candidates receiving the most votes will face one another in a runoff; the majority vote earner being the candidate elected to office.
The administration of the 502nd PIR will consist of the following elected officers, heretofore known as the Board:
President: The President is the unit's administrative commander. The primary duty of the President is maintain administrative control over unit operations and activities. All official communication to the public, TMHS, or any other unit must be originated or approved by the President. The President shall preside at all unit meetings. He can appoint committees and/or delegate the appointment of committees to the Board member having jurisdiction over the function of said committee.
Vice President: The Vice President shall become the acting President in the event that the President becomes unable to exercise his office. The Vice President shall also serve as the event coordinator and public relations officer. He is responsible for planning and scheduling all unit activities and event notifications.
Secretary: The primary function of the secretary is to maintain and update all unit documents and records (except the unit ledger) in appropriate books as needed. This includes the unit roster, bylaws, member records, and meeting minutes. A 201 personnel file will be keep current on each member. This includes but is not limited to, current contact information, emergency contact information, medical information, event attendance, and firearms qualifications.
Treasurer: The function of the treasurer is to keep an accurate accounting of all unit funds and bear the responsibility for reporting any member with unpaid dues to the secretary. Additionally, he will collect unit dues and disperse funds that have met the approval of the Board. The treasurer will prepare a report describing account activity at each unit meeting. The treasurer is also responsible for assisting the quartermaster with distribution of equipment and collecting any necessary funds from their use.
Recruiter: The recruiter will be the contact person on the website and will handle all new recruit email and phone traffic. He will mail out and accept applications for membership and keep accurate records of recruits. Upon membership the recruit's records will be passed to the Secretary. He will handle notifying recruits about events and coordinate with the Quartermaster to make sure the proper equipment will be available for them.
In times of emergency Board members may hold more than one position at a time.
Any of the Board members may act as an Authenticity Officer.
Non-Board Positions:
Authenticity: Any board member may act as an authenticity officer. Each member will be required to have his equipment inspected prior to any unit activity. Members may be denied the privilege of engaging in any unit activity if the members checking authenticity deems that member is lacking in the minimum authenticity requirements. Any questionable item must be authenticated by no less than three documented instances in which the item was used my members of the 502nd in WWII. The documentation must be from three separate events or instances. The member with the questionable item, not the authenticity officers, bears the burden of documenting the item in question. Deviations from authenticity must be decided by a majority of the board.
Quartermaster: The quartermaster is responsible for maintaining, storing, and transporting all unit property. His duties include locating and acquiring additional property that the unit deems necessary. The quartermaster is also responsible for distributing and cataloging all equipment that is loaned out to individuals at an event.
Safety Officer: The safety officer is responsible for checking the ammunition and blank adaptation equipment of all members during unit formation. He will record his findings and present them to the unit commanding officer who in turn will deliver them to the overall allied commander for the event.
Webmaster: The unit webmaster will be required to maintain an up to date Internet website for the purpose of recruiting, disseminating information, and public awareness/ relations. The webmaster must have access to all pertinent hardware necessary for maintaining the site and be able to update the web page within 72 hours of notification.
Board Members may also hold non-board positions at the same time.
Unit Awards for Class A Uniforms
Out of respect for those who earned awards and citations in combat for their valor and heroism, no such awards are given or permitted in this unit unless the member has been awarded the citation while in actual service to the United States.
However, in order to maintain the authenticity of the unit's impression; the 502nd of the 101st in WWII, certain awards are authorized for wear on the Class A uniform only. These are awards that we feel are inherent to the Airborne impression and that are obtainable based on unit membership or personal criteria other than valor.
Awards, when applicable, are to be worn on dress uniform in accordance with WWII Army standards. Division insignia should be worn on left shoulder. Rank chevrons will be worn on both sleeves for enlisted or on both epaulettes for officers. Branch of Service (crossed rifles) and US insignia will be worn on lapels. Presidential Unit Citation is to be centered above right breast pocket. Jump wings over left breast pocket over 502nd Regimental Oval. Combat Infantryman's Badge on left breast pocket flap. Campaign ribbons on bar above left breast pocket. Dutch Lanyard around left arm. Belgian Fourragere around right arm. French Fourragere around left arm.
Unit Awards: to be worn by all members according time period of impression.
Presidential Unit Citation
French Fourragere
Belgian Fourragere
Orange Lanyard of the Royal Netherlands Army (Dutch Lanyard)
Individual Awards:
Jump Wings- Is awarded after completion of equipment level 3. Combat Infantry Badge- Is awarded after completion of 5 tacticals with the unit. American Campaign Ribbon- a member is eligible for this ribbon upon completion of at least one year in the unit as a member in good standing and participation in at least five TMHS sanctioned events.
European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon- A member is eligible for this ribbon upon completion of at least two years in the unit as a member in good standing and participation in at least ten TMHS sanctioned events.
Good Conduct Medal- The Good Conduct Medal is awarded for "exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in an enlisted status for a period of one continuous year. During the period of service, the Service Record should show all character ratings as excellent, all efficiency ratings as excellent or superior, and no record of conviction by court-martial." A member is eligible for this service medal if he has been a member in good standing for more than one year, has missed no more than one TMHS sanctioned event during the year, and has received a favorable peer evaluation.
American Defense Medal- The initial focus of this medal was to recognize members of the armed forces who had served prior to the outbreak of the war. As such, members in good standing for five consecutive years are eligible for this service medal.
WWI Victory Medal- Any member who has completed at least one year as a member in good standing and has reached his 40th birthday is eligible for this service medal.
Article II
Unit Field Structure and Rank Assignment
In keeping with the spirit of the Normandy invasion and the massive confusion faced by the Airborne in their drops, the 502nd will deviate from a "text-book" rank structure. Many times small groups of Airborne would fight together in an add hoc basis as they found each other.
The ranks available when depend on the size of the unit as follows:
Up to 8 members- 1-1st Lt., 1 Sgt., 1 Cpl., the rest PFC, Pvt. or Tech. forming 1 squad 9 to 15 members- 1- 1st Lt., 2 Sgt., 2 Cpl., the rest PFC, Pvt. or Tech. forming 2 squads 16 to 20 members- 1- 1st Lt., 3 Sgt., 3 Cpl., the rest PFC, Pvt. or Tech. forming 3 squads 21 members- 1- 1st Lt., 4 Sgt., 4 Cpl., the rest PFC, Pvt. or Tech. forming 4 squads 22 members- add a Cpt. 23 members- add a 2 Lt. and form two platoons 24 and up follow the pattern above adding men to each squad.
These above numbers are the maximum and may be lower due to not having enough members qualifying for rank. A 2nd Lt. will receive an automatic promotion to 1st Lt. after one year in time of rank. The Sgt. positions may be filled by E-4 through E-1.
This is the on paper rank structure. To give all unit leaders a chance to command the Officers and NCOs may trade positions at tacticals.
No individual will be permitted to hold or display rank earned in another unit. New members, regardless of previous affiliation with other groups, will enter the 502nd at the rank of Private. Exception will be made in the following circumstance only. If the board recommends that a new member come in with a standing rank and there is a position available, and the new member has completed equipment levels one through three, the membership will vote to approve the new member's rank. A general unit majority of 80% is required.
Aside from a set rank structure, the 502nd recognizes the competitive spirit of the Airborne and seeks to reward its member's commitment by offering structured opportunities to move up in the rank structure.
Private- All new members enter the unit at the rank of Private.
Private First Class- A member automatically receives the rank of PFC upon the attainment of equipment levels one and two and at least one year in the unit. Two board members must verify the member's equipment. Associate members may hold the rank of PFC.
Technician ranks- Technical grade ranks were used for soldiers with special skills such as: map readers, radiomen, and other technical specialties. If a member has a skill that he uses to benefit the unit the board can award a technician rank. An example of these skills would be carpentry, web design, armorer, manufacture of items the unit can use, etc. When he has been in that grade for one year the unit will evaluate if he deserves a promotion to the next grade. A majority vote will approve this. Associate members may hold this rank.
***Technicians are not NCOs.
Corporal- A member may receive the rank of Corporal by being a member in good standing of the 502nd for one year. Additionally, a corporal will attain all of equipment levels one, two, and three. Disqualification from this rank must be based on misconduct or lack of cooperation in the field and should be clearly stated by the board at the time the rank is removed.
Sergeant- A member may receive the rank of Sergeant by being a member in good standing of the 502nd for one year. Additionally, a Sergeant will attain all of equipment levels one, two, and three and acquire at least ten items from the level four lists. A member may only be promoted from Corporal to Sergeant. If a Sergeant position opens the board will review all the candidates' performance and overall unit contribution as well as his score at the annual Soldier's School (see point scale below). It is recommended all NCOs obtain a copy of FM 22-100 and read it. Disqualification from this rank must be based on misconduct or lack of cooperation in the field and should be clearly stated by the board at the time the rank is removed.
Senior NCO- A Sergeant can be promoted one grade by remaining in grade one year and after a review of members. The members will discuss the Sergeant in question either in person or online for 72 hours after which a vote will be taken. A majority voting for promotion will grant the promotion. Disqualification from this rank must be based on misconduct or lack of cooperation in the field and should be clearly stated by the board at the time the rank is removed.
Officer- A member can advance from any Sergeant rank to an officer position as long as he meets the basic officer requirements. Once the rank of 2nd Lt. is held for a year the officer is reviewed by the unit. A positive vote by the majority yields a promotion to 1st Lt. When a Captain is needed due to numbers the senior Lt. will automatically be promoted. Disqualification from this rank must be based on misconduct or lack of cooperation in the field and should be clearly stated by the board at the time the rank is removed.
The officer requirements are:
An officer shall have been a member in good standing for at least two consecutive years.
Must have attended two soldiers' schools.
Own and have read Army FM 22-100 Army Leadership (can be a current or photocopied version).
Be willing and able to teach classes to the unit.
Be able to maintain a positive relationship with other units and the public.
The above will not keep an NCO from being a temporary C.O. at an event.
Once in the field the unit will use proper military courtesy and discipline. The assigned C.O. is the arbiter of all issues excepting the board's business according to the by-laws.
***Promotion is attained two ways. One a position opens up and all members desiring promotion apply to the board for it. The board will review all the candidates' records and interview each candidate. The board will take into account past service to the unit, attendance, overall impression, knowledge of WWII in general, of the 101st division and the 502nd Regiment specifically, and a prediction of future commitment to the unit.
***The 2nd way is at the Soldier's School with the Fitness Report. The past season is reviewed and points are assigned to each member. The member with the most points picked the rank he wants to assume for the next season. He has to have all the requirements met to hold the rank he chooses.
***A Physical fitness test is an option for extra points.
Soldier's School
A yearly soldier's school will be held at a location to be decided by the unit at the last tactical battle of the spring or as soon as possible afterwards. The purpose of the school is multifaceted. The promotion of camaraderie and a competitive nature in the unit while increasing one's knowledge of equipment and tactics is the overall goal of the school. A member is also recognized amongst his peers for his accomplishments both physically and in his impression. Best new impression will be recognized to encourage new members to strive to expand their collection. The Soldier's School will also be used to provide an arena for rank challenges and advancement. The following is just a guide to the sessions and activities and each schedule will be unique.
Saturday Morning- Qualification for physical fitness. This part of the school is not mandatory; however a member earns more points in his fitness report by participating. The PT qualification will be centered on the following activities: 1 mile run, sit-ups and push-ups. See school scoring procedure.
Saturday Afternoon- A class shall be held to familiarize each member with the use, functions, and purpose of all available airborne equipment. This includes but is not limited to weapons, web gear, uniforms, and accessory equipment as well as specialized airborne equipment such as radio beacons, marker panels, etc.
Saturday Evening- Squad Tactics. A set of standard squad tactics will be developed and implemented. All members shall be trained to use these tactics. The tactics will be decided by a panel group composed of officers, squad leaders and members selected at the final tactical event of each year. The C.O. will have final approval of the panel. The panel will focus on "reenactment" tactics that will maximize unit efficiency and success in the reenactment environment.
Sunday Morning- A unit meeting will be held in which points are tallied for the events held over the weekend. Recognition will be given for Best New Member Impression, Best Overall Impression, and Best PT Score. Members choosing new ranks will do so and the date for the unit approval vote will be set.
Soldier's School Point System
Fitness Report
The Fitness Report will be used to evaluate each member and see where he will stand in the ranking structure during the next season. This process allows the members that have excellent participation records, have their equipment, maintain good fitness, and have good relations with unit members to choose what rank they will hold during the next season. This evaluation will be held at the annual Soldier's School.
The evaluation will be scored thus:
Participation: Each required event attended is worth 10 points.
Equipment: Each level must be completed.
Level 1: 20 points
Level 2: 35 points
Level 3: 10 points
Each item from Level 4: 1 point for the 1st 20 items, ½ a point for each following item.
Items not on the level 4 list may be petitioned to the board to be added. The board must vote 80% to add the item.
Do to the fact that every item needs to be not only acquired but also maintained a check will be done on each member every year.
With the approval of the board photos of equipment posted to the 101st group can be substituted for those not attending the Solder's School or hardship in moving equipment to the Soldier's School.
Physical Fitness Test: This test is optional but you get 0 points if you do not participate.
Maximum Points 35
One Mile Run- Less than 6 min. 15 points
Less than 6.5 min. 12 points
Less than 7 min. 10 points
Less than 7.5 min. 5 points
Over 7.5 min. no points
Push-Ups- 60 or more 10 points
50 or more 8 points
30 or more 5 points
Less than 30 no points
Sit-Ups- 100 in 2 min. 10 points
90 in 2 min. 9 points
80 in 2 min. 8 points
70 in 2 min. 6 points
60 in 2 min. 5 points
Less than 60 no points
Military Experience- Maximum Points 5
DD-214 or 201 must be provided.
If an individual can verify in writing one to five years of prior military service, he will receive two points. Six to Twenty years of service is five points. This service can be active, reserve or National Guard.
The member with the most points can choose the rank he wants to assume following the TO&E. Before he actually assumes that rank a poll of all members will be taken. A majority must concur before the rank is granted. The member with the next highest points then chooses and so on following the above process.
All members will participate in the evaluation. Only members in good standing can hold rank above PFC.
To hold an officer position you must have been a member in good standing for two consecutive years.
Order of The Day
Each individual shall be required, as stated in Article III, to bring all gear specified in the operations order posted before an event. The C.O. is to notify all members of the unit two weeks in advance as to the packing list.
This order shall list all items required to be carried or worn by each individual in the field. The C.O. will communicate this order by email to each squad leader or on the 101st email group. The list shall be made readily available to all troopers. If this is not possible a verbal order may be issued by phone. It will be the responsibility of each squad leader to insure that the individuals are equipped properly at the event. It shall also be the C.O.'s final decision as to whether or not an individual can participate in the day's events without having all items required by the list.
Article III
Uniform/Equipment Requirements
Table of Organization and Equipment
The unit will attempt to mirror the basic table of organization and equipment of firearms for a Parachute Infantry Regiment in World War II. This table may be deviated from based on the scenario and the weapons available to unit members. Full automatic weapons and crew served / support weapons will be given priority over their semi-auto counter parts in an effort to increase firepower in the field and maintain reasonable historic accuracy. Officers and Squad leaders will be given status as to the carrying of these weapons. In WWII Airborne sidearms were present in more numbers than in leg infantry and thus will be allowed on a case by case basis.
Equipment Number Translation
Officers 172- 1 officer for 12 enlisted men
Enlisted 2205- 12 enlisted men for 1 officer
Total 2377
Carbine, .30-cal. 639 1 carbine for 3.5 men
Submachinegun, 216 1 submachinegun for 11 men
Pistol, .45-cal. 556 All officers and NCO's and certain crews
Rifle, .30-cal. 1698 1 garand for 1.4 men
Machinegun, .30-cal. 182 1 machine gun for 13 men
60mm Mortar 36 1 60mm mortar for 65 men
81mm Mortar 16 1 81mm mortar for 146 men
Personal Equipment
There exist three levels of uniform and equipment requirements, and a fourth optional level. The fourth level, while not required, will complete the impression satisfactorily, and is recommended for those who are exceptionally serious about their impression. The more items in level 4 acquired will help advance the trooper in the rank structure.
Levels One, Two, and Three must be verified by any two Board Officers at the yearly Soldier School in order to qualify for completion of the Level.
All clothing and equipment must be kept serviceable. All shirts, jackets and coats are required to have Division insignia on left shoulder and rank insignia on both arms if applicable.
Level 1: D-Day Impression
Combat Clothing (Airborne)
Coat, Parachute Jumper, M1942*
Trousers, Parachute Jumper, M1942
Boots, Parachutist, Russet
Cap, Garrison ("Overseas Cap"), Khaki, Cotton or OD, Wool with infantry piping
Undershirt, OD OR T-shirt, White
Tags, Identification ("Dog Tags"), notched, with neck chain and extension
Belt, Web, Waist, M1937, khaki w/EM open buckle
Gloves, Horsehide, Riding, M1938 or M1942
Cricket
Brassard, Gas Detection
*M42 Jump Jacket should have 101st ABN patch on left shoulder, Gauze ID tied around left arm, NO 48 star flag.
Combat Clothing (Glider)
Coat, Field, M1941
Trousers, Wool Serge, EM, M1937
Shirt, Wool Serge, EM
CShoes, Service, Reverse Upper
Leggings, M1938
Cap, Garrison ("Overseas Cap"), Khaki, Cotton or OD, Wool with infantry piping
Undershirt, OD OR T-shirt, White
Tags, Identification ("Dog Tags"), notched, with neck chain and extension
Belt, Web, Waist, M1937, khaki w/EM open buckle
Brassard, Gas Detection
*M41 Jacket should have 101st ABN patch on left shoulder.
Field Equipment
Helmet, Steel, M1C or M2 w/liner (khaki webbing) and leather chin cup* (Airborne)
Helmet, Steel, M1 (Khaki webbing) (Glider)*
Netting, Helmet, 1/2" weave
Packet, First Aid, Parachutist
Bag, Canvas, Field, M1936 ("Musette Bag"), khaki (Airborne)
Haversack, M1928 (Glider)
Suspenders, Belt, M1936, khaki
Cover, Canteen, M1910, khaki
Canteen, M1910 or M1942 (aluminum or stainless steel)
Cup, Canteen, M1910 (aluminum or stainless steel)
Pouch, First Aid, M1910, M1924, or M1942, khaki
Cover, Entrenching Tool, M1943, khaki OR Cover, Entrenching Tool, M1910
Tool, Entrenching, M1943 OR Tool, Entrenching, M1910
Tent, Shelter, Button, w/ ropes & pins
(Both Halves Required) (Must have buttons not snaps) (minimum 10 pins and 2 sets of poles)
Soldier's Handbook, FM 21-100
*Helmet should have 502nd PIR ID (2" Heart on both sides, with "click" to right of heart) for Airborne and 327th GlR ID (2" club on both sides, with "click" to the --- of club) for Glider.
Weapons Related
Knife, Fighting, M3 w/ M8 or M6 Scabbard
ONE OF THE FOLLOWING (select based on weapon carried)
Belt, Cartridge, M1923, khaki
Belt, Automatic Rifle, M1937, khaki
Belt, Pistol, M1936, khaki with the following:
Bandoleer, Cotton, OD, M1 (for Garand)
Pouch(es), Magazine, Riggers Made (For Carbine or Garand) (ABN Only)
Pouch(es), Magazine, Thompson, 20-rd, or 30-rd Khaki
Weapon, Shoulder Fired. M1 Garand is Primary Rifle (See Approved Weapons List)
Bayonet if required (See Approved Weapons List)
Upon completing Level One, members are awarded the airborne cap badge or glider cap badge and are able to participate in the rank structure.
Level 2: Operation Market Garden to Berlin
Combat Clothing
Jacket, Field, M1943
Armband, 48 Star Flag, Pin-On Type
Trousers, Field, M1943 (rigger-modified)
Winter Clothing (Bulge & Later)
Cap, Wool Knit, M1941 ("jeep cap")
Sweater, Wool, High Neck (5 button), w/correct WWII-style buttons
Scarf, Neck, Wool, (may also be made from a wool blanket)
Gloves, Wool, OD, Leather Palm
Miscellaneous Field Gear
Can , Meat (mess kit), M1910, M1918, M1932 or M1942
Poncho, OD
Wire Cutters, M1936, w/case
Compass, Wrist OR Compass, Lensatic, Marching w/ case
Sheet, Cotton, White (2)
Blanket, Wool, OD, M1934
Roll, Sleeping, Blanket OR Bag, Sleeping (Arctic M-1942, Half Zip M-1944, Mountain M-1945)
Bag, Duffel, OR Bag, Barracks
Upon completion of Level Two, the member receives the Regimental Oval and automatically receives the rank of Private First Class in accordance with Article II.
Upon completion of Level Three, the member receives the Parachutist Badge (jump wings) or Glider Badge to be worn on the dress uniform only. Unless other rank is held, the member is also assigned the rank of Corporal in accordance with Article II.
Level 4 (not required, but will complete the impression)
Watch, Hack or Ordnance
Flashlight, TL 122 (-A), (-B), (-C)
Boots, Combat, M1943, 2-Buckle
Overcoat, Wool Melton, OD
Case, Jump, for Carbine, M1A1, khaki or OD (ABN Only)
Holster Assembly, Parachutist's Rifle "Griswold Bag" (ABN Only)
Holster, Hip, .45, M1916
Holster, Shoulder, .45, M3 OR Holster, Shoulder, .45, M7
Bag, General Purpose (GP or Ammo Bag)
Disc, Helmet, Luminous
Goggles, All Purpose, Polaroid
Case, Map/Dispatch, M1938, khaki
Binoculars, M3, w/case, M17
Knife, Pocket (switchblade), M2
Mask, Gas, Training, M2A1, w/"Kidney" bag
Mask, Gas, Assault, M5, w/case, rubberized
Rope, Parachutist's, (3/8" x 25', white cotton)
Panel, Drop Zone Marker, A1-140B, w/case
Footlocker, Plywood, OD
Pick-Mattock, w/case. OD or khaki
Web Gear, OD#7, including:
Cartridge or Pistol Belt (as described in Level 1)
Pouch, First Aid, M1942
Suspenders, Belt, M1943
Pack, Combat, M-1944 (Musette)
Cover, Canteen, M1942
Cover, Entrenching Tool, M1943
Case, Wire Cutters
Uniform, Parachute Jumper, "show quality" (ABN Only)
Vest, Life, B4
Parachute, T5, w/ reserve (ABN Only)
Again, Level Four Requirements are not mandatory. However, it is hoped that members will take into consideration that this equipment will create an accurate Airborne / Glider impression, and will strive to obtain as many items listed herein as possible.
Approved Weapons
Individual Served:
U.S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1, (Garand)
U.S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1903A4 w/ M73B1 Scope (Sniper)
U.S. Carbine, Caliber .30, M1 OR M1A1
Rifle, Automatic, Browning, M1918, M1918A1 OR M1918A2 (BAR)
Sub-Machinegun, M1928, M1, OR M1A1 (Thompson)
Sub-Machinegun, M3 OR M3A1 (Grease-Gun)
Pistol, Automatic, Cal .45, M1911 or M1911A1
Pistol, Revolver, Cal .45, M1917
Pistol, Revolver, Cal .38, M10 (Victory Model)
*First Rifle to acquire and carry is the M1 Garand. This is the PRIMARY Weapon.
**Pistol does not count toward Level One Weapon Requirement.
***M1C and M1D Sniper rifles are not approved for use as they entered the ETO during Occupation, not before V-E Day.
Crew Served:
Machine Gun, Caliber .30, Light, Air Cooled, M1919A4 OR M1919A6
Launcher, Rocket, Anti-tank, M1, M1A1, M9, OR M9A1 (Bazooka)
**Recoiless Rifles are not approved for use as they entered the ETO in late March 1945 and first saw combat at the end of April 1945 with the 17th ABN.
