The Beginnings
The 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment was activated on March 2, 1942 under the command of Lt. Col. George P. Howell. Later on, in July 1942, the 101st Airborne Division was formed, and the 502nd was it's first regiment. The regiment undertook various exercises in the States, largely in Camden, New Jersey, and Tennessee. During the Tennessee maneuvers, company H set a marching record by marching 145.5 miles in 57.25 hours (and the first 33 miles were done in 11 hours). On September 4, 1944, the 502nd boarded the SS Strathnaver, bound for England. however, the ship had mechanical difficulties, and made port in Newfoundland for repairs on the 11th. After sailing again on the 27th, after repairs had been made, the ship was damaged by rocks in harbor and returned to port. And finally, on October 4th, they boarded the SS John Ericsson, again bound for Liverpool. Their journey ended up taking 44 days.
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The 502nd's unit insignia
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A picture possibly taken by Sgt. Theall during jump training
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Clearing for ActionThe men entered England and headed to their encampments near Hungerford, Berkshire. They had little time to enjoy their new surroundings before entering into rigorous physical workouts. Fifteen to twenty-five mile walks were the norm as were close-combat exercises. The men were also instructed on first aid, map reading, chemical warfare, and the use of German weapons. Parachute drop practices were also undertaken.
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