September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/7/2023
A great small archive of a World War II 101st Airborne Division veteran. Robert Fuller grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey, and graduated from high school in January 1943. After graduating, he worked on a farm in Utica, New York, where he volunteered to fill a draft slot. He was inducted into the Army on February 21, 1944, and attended Basic Training at Camp Wolters, Texas, before heading to Europe, stopping first in Naples, Italy, before arriving as a replacement in Bastogne. He was assigned to Company C, 401st Glider Infantry Regiment, and during his time in the Battle of the Bulge, his unit reflagged as Company L, 3rd Battalion, 327th Glider Infantry Regiment. Robert had many experiences during the war, in training, and during the war with the 327th Glider Infantry Regiment, and occupation of Germany. One of his most memorable was his arrival in Bastogne, return to Camp Mourmelon in France, experiencing V-E Day, and being posted at Hitler's Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden, where he gathered a plethora of souvenirs, including the German cuff titles also in this sale. After the war ended, he visited London twice and saw the King and Queen in Scotland. When Robert returned to the United States, he participated in the Victory Parade in New York City and was discharged. After the war, he worked as a photo engraver for the New York Times Magazine and as a fire inspector, finally retiring at the ripe age of 80. His archive consists of various pieces of ephemera, including several photos of himself in uniform at locations like the Berchtesgaden. There are also several items from the post-War years, including a copy of Rendezvous with Destiny, and various pieces of family history, including a 1770 dated will of his relative Jabez Fuller and a certificate for the Society of the Cincinnati. The highlights of the lot are his scrapbook which follows Robert's footsteps through the war, his company L, 327th Glider Infantry unit photo, and perhaps the best piece, which is the Guidon for the 327th Glider Infantry Regiment's L Company with Combat Infantry Company tally. Guidon flags are particularly sought after by collectors, and the rarity of guidons from airborne units is nearly unsurpassed. The flag is constructed of wool bunting and exhibits scattered mothing but remains intact and is quite displayable. Paper items in the lot exhibit wear and aging typical of old paper, but most pieces remain in good condition. Photos all remain clear with interesting content. CONDITION: Fair-good.
Item Dimensions: 26" x 16"