Description
Thomas C. Farrow was imprisoned at German prisoner of war camp Stalag Luft IV from July 1944 to February 1945 after his B-17 was shot down. The camp was evacuated 5 February 1945, and the prisoners were forced to march for 86 days covering 600 miles. He took the bayonet from a German soldier near the end of the war after his forced march.
Question about this artifact? Email the Collections Manager, Hal Sellars.
Every artifact in the Air Mobility Command Museum, including this one, is part of the United States Air Force Heritage Program. We are not able to loan artifacts in the museum's collection.
2 Comments
I have bayonet that looks just like this.
My grandfather brought back a German Bayonet, same like the one in that picture, but the one there is missing the Leather Scabbard/Sheath/Holder that has a belt loop, so when it is not on the weapon, it can be or was on the waist to be used as a knife or dagger..
What is interesting is that little indent, exactly 4cm up the blade is in same spot on mine.. I initially thought it was a defect or use related.. but have deduced after seeing that picture that it was probably made at same location or in same fashion, I.E. being placed in a vice, to tap in the handle, as there are no screws.
Of note, definitely a part of history.. and after all there years.. still in perfect condition and not a stitch out of place.. amazes me.
There should be a gallery that people can post pictures of items family members brought back from WWII. And the museum can arrange/itemize accordingly.
I thank my GF and all others for their service to Our Country!!