As It Was
The borough of Chef du Pont is shown in an undated postcard photo which
probably depicts the village as it appeared in 1944
The building seen at center in background is the same as that
in the far left of the photo at right. |
As It Became
Years later, the men of the 82nd Airborne revisited the town
during D-Day anniversary observances.
Many of the men shown here were members of the 508th PIR.
Specifically identified are: second from right in dark sweater, Louis Manion
[Hq 2nd]; fourth from right with a big grin, Bob Speers [Hq 2nd];
fifth from right with face turned from camera, 1st Sgt Don Dicks [Co I]; and
over his shoulder, Carl Porter [Rigger, Service Company]
Additional identifications are being sought |
Marching With Pride
CMSgt Don Dicks leads a troop of men through the town of Chef du Pont
Note that Dicks (misspelled as "Dick") and Zane Schlemmer
have already been identified on the photo. |
Merderet Bridge
seems tranquil today but was the scene of horrific firefights in 1944.
The 508th Memorial Park is in the grove to the left of the photo |
First 508th Memorial
was erected to the right side of this road.
|
Flanked By Shell Replicas
the original memorial overlooks the Merderet |
In Recognition of Our Liberators
the American 508th Parachute Regiment
Chef du Pont
6 June 1944 |
Aerial View & Legend
Merderet Bridge to left and (A) Site of original monument
(B-C) 508th Memorial Park including memorial stones to regiment |
