This is a picture of the communications (Hq) platoon Co. B. 272nd Infantry Regiment, 69th Division. The picture was take shortly before the surrender of Japan in 1945, near Weisenfels, Germany. Note, that not one of us in this unit could pass inspection, state side. Master Sgt. Hart has brought the platoon to attention, which is usually my job, but Sgt. Hart developed Respirtory problems in England, and had just returned to the unit, and was assigned to the Headquarters Platoon because there was no opening in the company for a man of his rank. There wasn't much for us to do, as Germany had surrendered. Those with high points (85) were waiting to go home, and the low point men were waiting to go to the Pacific.
From left to Right: M/Sgt Hart, Sgt James K. Richardson, Pfc Hadley, Pfc Leon Barr, and Pfc Claude Rice. Unknown behind Pfc Rice. Pfc Rice has his shirt pocket unbuttoned.... a no no ... only Me, Barr and Hadley are wearing our Combat Infantry Badges. The patch on the side of our helmets is the 272nd Infantry Logo, that we called the Bloody Hatchet. Of course the patch on the shoulders are 69th Infantry Division.
