Have you ever seen anyone wearing a Glider badge?

2014-05-31T08:42:11-04:00

Have you ever seen anyone wearing a Glider badge? How many Soldiers could you ask before receiving the correct answer without the help of a search engine?

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made May 31 at 2014 8:59 AM

2014-05-31T08:59:21-04:00

In person I have not come across anyone who wore the glider badge since they would be a WWII veteran. I try to see what pins of different units or specialties they wear on their hats. If I remember right, the Ft Campbell museum had (at the time) pictures of WWII Soldiers with them.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2014 9:58 AM

2014-05-31T09:58:13-04:00

Only Soldiers from 325 glider Infantry Reg, 327 Glider Infantry Reg, and 319 Glider Field Artillery Battalion during the WWII are authorized the wear of the Badge. I do know for fact that 327 Infantry Reg (Bastogne) 101st ABN DIV keep the tradition alive within the BDE HQ and the GEN Pratt Museum in Fort Campbell.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2014 9:56 PM

2014-06-10T21:56:19-04:00

I have seen it once. When I first got to Bragg I did a color guard for my PSG's church in Fayetteville. I saw an older gentlemen in blues and saw some odd looking badge. I went to to take a closer look and it was a glader badge. He was a WWII vet. I was in awe.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Dec 8 at 2014 11:42 PM

2014-12-08T23:42:02-05:00

This is a Glider badge from World War II, although the U.S. Army did "use glider-borne troops in military exercises as late as 1949" (Wikipedia article). The only man I ever met (c. 1973) that was awarded the Glider badge was LTC Billy R. Eidson (now deceased). LTC Eidson was the original commander of the 4th SF Support Battalion, 20th SFG(A) when it was organized, effective OCT72 and served in that capacity until sometime in 1974. Former enlisted, he was a big, daunting and scary man!

SGT Private RallyPoint Member, 1LT John Martin, CPT Private RallyPoint Member, CPT Jacob Swartout, SGT Ben Keen, MSG Martin C. , SFC Private RallyPoint Member, SPC Michael Griggs, SFC Michael Hasbun, SGT Richard H. CPT Private RallyPoint Member 1SG Mark Flowers

SGT Eric Knutson, this is the only soldier I ever met that had been awarded a glider badge.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 9 at 2014 7:08 AM

2014-12-09T07:08:36-05:00

I've never seen anyone but WW2 veterans wearing it.

I think, though, that I should get one for learning how to hang-glide through an MWR course.

Response by SSG(P) Matthew Bisbee made Dec 10 at 2014 12:02 AM

2014-12-10T00:02:05-05:00

I am trying to track down records for a deceased former member of my local VFW post that was a member of the 18th Airborne Corps during WWII and was authorized glider pay. As he had no living relatives that were interested in his stuff, I ended up with his uniform (unfortunately without any badges or ribbons), pay book, and dog tags. He served in both WWII and Korea (I have his WWII dress uniform). Any suggestions where to go? I want to see his records to find out of he had been awarded the glider badge and what ribbons/medals he had earned. This is the closest that I have come to anyone with the glider badge.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2014 6:31 PM

2014-12-25T18:31:59-05:00

Not many of those in existence these days as we no longer have gliders in the inventory. The glider was a short lived experiment during WWII.

Response by COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM made Jan 15 at 2015 11:29 AM

2015-01-15T11:29:15-05:00

- I have seen people wearing a glider badge but they were all WWII vets.
- The glider badge has not been issued since WWII when was the last time that the US actually had glider forces.
- Look at unit titles and lineage. There is a difference between PIR (Parachute Infantry Regiment) and GIR (Glider Infantry Regiment).
- There were five airborne divisions in WWII. Each had a mix of airborne and glider regiments.
- As relatively new technologies, the basic difference was that airborne forces could drop into more areas but were more separated upon landing. Glider forces could land into fewer areas but were consolidated 10 Soldiers per upon landing.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jan 15 at 2015 1:36 PM

2015-01-15T13:36:22-05:00

SGT Private RallyPoint Member I knew a few guys in the Army who were authorized to wear the Glider Badge. They were USMA cadets who had gone to the Air Force school/course and graduated, as part of an exchange program. They wore the Glider Badge while they were still cadets at USMA. However, I don't know whether they were authorized to wear them once they commissioned as 2LTs.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2015 12:35 PM

2015-02-06T12:35:18-05:00

I would guess that glider badges were awarded in WWII - that's without Googling it. Somewhere along the line, during my time in the 82d, I heard stories about WWII gliders.

So, you'd probably have to ask a lot of Soldiers to get the real deal. I doubt anyone on active duty now is authorized to wear a glider badge. I'll caveat that by saying that I obviously could be wrong. One guy you could ask is Harold Billow. He may not have earned the badge, but I'll bet he knows about it:

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/event-overview-harold-w-billow-united-states-army-world-war-ii-veteran-malmedy-massacre-survivor

Event Overview: Harold W. Billow, United States Army, World War II Veteran, Malmedy Massacre...

Dear RallyPointers, Last night I had the honor of being in the presence of Harold W. Billow, United States Army, World War II Veteran, Malmedy Massacre Survivor. (Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malmedy_massacre) Harold is 92 years old, and sharp as a knife. He told an amazing story of his ordeal, and moved the crowd many times. He also managed to make us all smile and laugh. Quite an amazing guy. Harold Billow was a member of Battery...

Response by SPC Nicholas Cureton made Feb 6 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-02-06T15:10:22-05:00

When I was stationed at Fort Bragg, we would often times have former paratroopers visit and be present at Memorial services. On special occasions they would come in to watch field exercises. I was privileged enough to meet a few who were with glider units in World War II.

Response by Sgt Jason Tanner made Feb 15 at 2015 12:14 PM

2015-02-15T12:14:29-05:00

I have seen three. All at the Houston VA Medical Center.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2015 10:58 PM

2015-02-23T22:58:11-05:00

No, I would guess without looking it up around 1955 near the time that the Glider school ended.

Response by SPC Edward Tapper made Mar 29 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-03-29T21:57:31-04:00

The only Glider Badge I've ever seen worn was on the chest of a 92 year old WW2 Army vet as he was lying in state in his original WW2 Army uniform prior to his body being transported to Arlington for burial.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Mar 29 at 2015 11:12 PM

2015-03-29T23:12:55-04:00

I saw an Air Force Colonel in 1985 at Fort Devens, MA with a Glider Badge. He had served in every branch but the Navy. He was a prior service infantryman.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2017 4:05 PM

2017-04-26T16:05:06-04:00

Saw the caption the Facebook page for RP puts out and my first thought was "Must be the Astronaut Badge."

Response by SPC Rob Lewis made Apr 26 at 2017 4:07 PM

2017-04-26T16:07:54-04:00

AN old SGM back in the early 80's.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made Apr 26 at 2017 4:10 PM

2017-04-26T16:10:28-04:00

My father wore the glider badge but he went to glider school 1945 or so !

Response by MCPO Chuck Feeney made Apr 26 at 2017 4:25 PM

2017-04-26T16:25:48-04:00

My Father was in the 472nd FAPGB, 11th Airborne in the Phillipines in WWII. Here's the banner from the unit's last reunion. They participated in the Los Banos raid, freeing 2200 civilian POWs.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2017 5:04 PM

2017-04-26T17:04:46-04:00

I don't believe this is anyone currently serving authorized to wear the Glider Badge.

Response by Sgt Thomas Proctor made Apr 26 at 2017 5:48 PM

2017-04-26T17:48:07-04:00

While serving at Kunsan AFB in Korea (62-63), my squadron commander, a captain, wore a set of pilot wings with a big "G" in the middle. said he was a glider pilot during WWII. I'll always remember it because, one night he was talking to Airman Zeleski, who was slightly intoxicated,when Zeleski pointed to the wings and asked him if that meant he was God.

Response by Cpl Francis Meech made Apr 26 at 2017 6:04 PM

2017-04-26T18:04:26-04:00

That's right up there with balloon pilot.

Response by SFC Bruce Mcglasson made Apr 26 at 2017 6:16 PM

2017-04-26T18:16:08-04:00

Yes my father

Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Apr 26 at 2017 8:14 PM

2017-04-26T20:14:09-04:00

Nope. Do we still have glider troops?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2017 8:40 PM

2017-04-26T20:40:41-04:00

My great uncle is believed to be the youngest glider pilot during WWII the stories he has are crazy

http://www.ww2gp.org/contributors/PeteBuckleyProfile.html

NWWIIGPA - George Pete Buckley Profile

Pete enlisted at age sixteen on December 10th 1941 the day after Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese. He did not have his mother's permission and his telling her of his deed did not go well. He reported to Fort Devens on the 24th of December, and then was assigned to Keesler Field for basic training. He volunteered for the Glider Program the first week in June 1942.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Apr 26 at 2017 9:05 PM

2017-04-26T21:05:10-04:00

Badge or patch. The patch was standard on airborne headgear until the berets came along. I saw some badges during the Cuban Missle crises at Ft. Bragg in 1962. I don't think there were any glider units after World War II

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Apr 26 at 2017 10:10 PM

2017-04-26T22:10:39-04:00

The only Glider badge I'd seen was earned by a Cadet I knew that earned it in England af a IACE (int'l Air Cadet Exchange he went up and qualified with RAF. That was back in '69.

Response by PVT Andrew Burd made Apr 27 at 2017 1:15 AM

2017-04-27T01:15:58-04:00

I got a slider badge from fort white castle.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Apr 27 at 2017 1:43 AM

2017-04-27T01:43:40-04:00

worked with one summer of '89 right before I was hired as a Technician at Cp Roberts CA. Saw a few at the 82d Abn convention in '85

Response by SPC Glenn Lovell made Apr 27 at 2017 2:59 AM

2017-04-27T02:59:36-04:00

As a former 75E/42A, I was reading the awards reg to re-do my section SOPs in the mid-90s and came across that one. I had to do some reading at the library, and was surprised to learn about the gliders. Insane program, I think. But still pretty interesting way to deploy troops.

Response by SPC George Long made Apr 27 at 2017 3:04 AM

2017-04-27T03:04:23-04:00

Yep saw a couple back in '68-'71.

Response by PO3 Scot Fahey made Apr 27 at 2017 4:11 PM

2017-04-27T16:11:51-04:00

glider training Dillingham field, Honolulu County Hawaii

Response by COL Ed Gibson made May 19 at 2017 4:08 PM

2017-05-19T16:08:40-04:00

I am a WW11 VETERAN who was commissioned in 1949 and assigned to the 82d Airborne Division Engineer Battalion that required Airborne training which at that time included Glider training . I am proud and grateful for having had the opportunity to serve our Country for29 years'. I am 91 years old.

Response by SGT Eric Knutson made May 24 at 2017 1:18 AM

2017-05-24T01:18:19-04:00

On a side bar for this, just a thought (please think this through) The glider is a very low vis item at night, with no sound on approch, and will deploy a group intact to a certain point. I would be surprised if it has any radar cross section either. I will admit that for large scale ops this would be a very bad idea, but for Spec Ops troops to use to get in closer and never need to get one of our planes in position over enemy territory. no markings on them, canvas burns and they can even (if desired) bring a sand buggy with them for egress. Spec Ops is unconventional warfare, just because it is an old trick does not mean that it would not work. I can see a FEW possible uses for them, maybe we should consider bringing them back for a limited use?
Peoples thoughts please

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 26 at 2017 10:18 PM

2017-05-26T22:18:18-04:00

I HAVE! Several. Back in 2004 my partner and our daughter attended the dedication of the National WWII Memorial in Washington DC. We saw scores of men wearing their WWII vintage uniforms. I talked to a couple vets from the 82nd with Glider Badges.

Response by SPC John Parmenter made May 27 at 2017 11:53 AM

2017-05-27T11:53:38-04:00

In 1961, at the Denver Armed Forces Induction Center, I noticed a Glider Badge worn by an Army NCO. When I commented on it, the NCO replied, "Not too many of those around any more." He also wore a CIB.

Response by SFC Thomas Heinz made May 29 at 2017 4:21 PM

2017-05-29T16:21:35-04:00

In 1979 I was stationed at Ft Myer Va and one day coming back from the dining facility I saw an Air Force NCO wearing a CIB-when I got closer I also saw that he had a set of wings he was wearing-turned out to be Glider wings-talked with him for a few and found out he did the assault on D-Day in 1944-very much respect for him and the courage to ride into combat in one of those!!!!!!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2017 12:07 AM

2017-05-30T00:07:32-04:00

The Army Astronaut badge is probably more common than the glider badge.

Response by SGT Eric Hawkins made May 30 at 2017 1:07 AM

2017-05-30T01:07:55-04:00

I haven't seen anyone with it. But, I would have to guess that not many that are authorized to wear the badge are still with us. As far as I know, we last used gliders in the invasion of France during WW2. Many didn't survive the "landing" because the gliders were made of wood and canvas. The first Commander of the 101st Airborne Division met his fate in a glider crash.

Response by SGT Eric Hawkins made May 30 at 2017 1:14 AM

2017-05-30T01:14:18-04:00

And until the Army went to the beret in 2001, we still wore the glider patch on our garrison caps.

Response by SGT Eric Hawkins made May 30 at 2017 1:14 AM

2017-05-30T01:14:39-04:00

In the 101st.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 30 at 2017 11:21 PM

2017-05-30T23:21:24-04:00

Gliders were used during WW II, if you see one these days, it just may be a museum piece. I met some WW II vets from the 82nd ABN DIV back in 1987. Such school no longer exists to my knowledge .

Response by SSG John Mitchell made May 31 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-05-31T23:10:48-04:00

My Great Uncle made the last Glider Jump. He still had his.

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Jun 7 at 2017 12:26 AM

2017-06-07T00:26:57-04:00

I saw a few of them but very few. When I first went in in 1966 we still had a number of WWII vets hanging around but they were rapidly retiring. Some of them had served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam which I found pretty impressive.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Jun 29 at 2017 2:40 PM

2017-06-29T14:40:02-04:00

Not as a part of their current uniform. I did meet some of the members of the 101st from the WWII time frame. Those guys made me realize what true grit and bravery meant. Some of the guys I met inserted by glider.
We did wear the glider patch on our Garrison Caps as part of the 101st history before the black beret became a thing.

Response by CPT Jim Schwebach made Jul 3 at 2017 9:43 AM

2017-07-03T09:43:56-04:00

We had a MSG(E7) in 1/32 Inf in 1964 who wore them. He, as well as our Bn SGM(jumped in), was a Normandy vet and participated in the glider landings there.

Response by CPL Lamar Zeek made Oct 13 at 2017 2:35 PM

2017-10-13T14:35:39-04:00

My was one last glidermen

Response by MSG Loren Tomblin made Oct 13 at 2017 3:21 PM

2017-10-13T15:21:15-04:00

I preferred to get where I was going by walking. Or, in a Huey. My extent of flying was in a civilian flying club in a Cesna 172. WWII would have freaked me out in a glider.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2017 6:20 PM

2017-10-13T18:20:59-04:00

There is a guy in my church who came in 1949, he wears glider wings!!

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Oct 13 at 2017 6:55 PM

2017-10-13T18:55:39-04:00

Yes, -- by WWII Veterans. To my knowledge, the metal glider badge has not been awarded since WWII. In addition to the glider badge, the Army also issued a glider pilot badge (wings), for the pilots who flew the gliders.

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/have-you-ever-seen-anyone-wearing-a-glider-badge

Have you ever seen anyone wearing a Glider badge? | RallyPoint

Have you ever seen anyone wearing a Glider badge? How many Soldiers could you ask before receiving the correct answer without the help of a search engine?

Response by MAJ Wayne Sweeney made Oct 13 at 2017 7:45 PM

2017-10-13T19:45:44-04:00

Only since World War II. After then , the gliders became obsolete.

Response by SGT Jim Tough made Oct 13 at 2017 8:26 PM

2017-10-13T20:26:19-04:00

My wife's grand father towed them in WWII

Response by 1SG Virgil Tibbs made Oct 13 at 2017 10:04 PM

2017-10-13T22:04:27-04:00

I've seen old WWII veterans wear them, especially at Ft Bragg.

Response by CPL Kevin Pochocki made Oct 14 at 2017 9:56 AM

2017-10-14T09:56:05-04:00

No- they haven’t had gliders since WW2

Response by PFC David Young made Oct 14 at 2017 11:41 AM

2017-10-14T11:41:56-04:00

Criteria: The Glider Badge of the United States Army was first created in June 1944. The award was intended to recognize those members of the Army who had been trained in glider assault tactics and was presented upon completion of a combat glider flight into enemy held territory. The badge was considered a successor decoration to the Glider Pilot Badge. Following the end of World War II, the Glider Badge was authorized to any service member who had completed glider or airborne unit training at the Airborne Department of Infantry School. The glider badge was also award during the Korean War and Vietnam War to any service member who performed a combat glider assault into enemy territory. In the 1980s, the Glider Badge was declared obsolete due in part to the decline of glider warfare.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2017 1:16 PM

2017-10-14T13:16:22-04:00

Yes. When I joined in 1976 there were a handful of WWII vets. I worked foe a COL Ted Robinson, a veteran of the 101st Airborne Division who participated in the Normandy and Market Garden operations.

Response by LTC Seymour Vladimer made Oct 14 at 2017 1:19 PM

2017-10-14T13:19:46-04:00

Yes. At 82nd.Air Borne meetings.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Oct 14 at 2017 2:25 PM

2017-10-14T14:25:20-04:00

No I haven't, but the question reminded me of a badge I haven't seen in a long time, the Jungle Expert badge. I think the training for it was in Panama.

Response by CPL Louis Kohler made Oct 14 at 2017 2:39 PM

2017-10-14T14:39:00-04:00

Rakkasans at fort Campbell still have it painted on the murals.

Response by SGT Eric Cartwright made Oct 14 at 2017 2:58 PM

2017-10-14T14:58:50-04:00

No one active. WWII vets at Ft Bragg during All American week back in the 80's. A few guys at VA with glider wings on hats. Also WWII vets.

Response by SGT Eric Dziekan made Oct 14 at 2017 4:31 PM

2017-10-14T16:31:49-04:00

My great uncle- 82nd ABN Glider certified, WWII. And he did I believe he told me one of each landing.

Response by SGT Greg Gold made Oct 14 at 2017 8:37 PM

2017-10-14T20:37:15-04:00

When I shot on a USAR rifle and pistol team in the late 1980's one of the NCO's that ran the ranges at Camp Smith in NY had a glider badge. He got it in 1949. We had an officer with a Philippine Scouts combat patch as well. To say both were rare is an understatement as I haven't seen either since.

Response by SCPO Larry Doonan made Oct 15 at 2017 1:45 AM

2017-10-15T01:45:34-04:00

Response by CMDCM Terry Skelator Walker made Oct 15 at 2017 11:27 AM

2017-10-15T11:27:22-04:00

Nope, but know a Navy Blimp Pilot with single gold wing device.

Response by Maj Daniel Rubadue made Oct 15 at 2017 2:43 PM

2017-10-15T14:43:58-04:00

Response by SSG Kenneth Capps made Oct 15 at 2017 3:14 PM

2017-10-15T15:14:22-04:00

Yeah I'm a lifetime member of the 82nd airborne division association. Some of the guys who fought in WWII had them. Most are all dead now though.

Response by CH (CPT) Kurt Bishop made Oct 15 at 2017 3:56 PM

2017-10-15T15:56:43-04:00

Response by SPC Miguel Rosario Cruz made Oct 15 at 2017 3:59 PM

2017-10-15T15:59:13-04:00

NEVER

Response by SGT Brent Shires made Oct 15 at 2017 10:56 PM

2017-10-15T22:56:58-04:00

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Oct 15 at 2017 10:57 PM

2017-10-15T22:57:15-04:00

I was at the PX at Ft. Bragg in 1962. I had a invitation to the Cuban Missle Crises. I saw one old guy, he had an 11th Abn Div Combat Patch. I didn't talk to him, he looked like he might bite. In 64-65 the 11th Air Aslt was at Ft. Benning. They were merged into 1st Cav in July 65.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Oct 16 at 2017 2:04 AM

2017-10-16T02:04:48-04:00

Although the USAF Academy still uses gliders on training Cadets in aviation there is no current rating in the Military for glider pilots. There are still gliders at the Academy airfield in Colorado Spring, CO that are used for this purpose.

Response by SGT Mike Stewart made Oct 16 at 2017 9:40 AM

2017-10-16T09:40:59-04:00

Sure! But I was at 101 in 1987.

Response by SFC Stephan Ratelbadger made Oct 16 at 2017 9:54 AM

2017-10-16T09:54:48-04:00

I met one. He was in his 60s when I was a kid in the late 70s. But that generation is now long gone.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 11:14 AM

2017-10-16T11:14:29-04:00

Meet a retired Air Force general that was a glider pilot during d day he'd retired early 70s and has since passed away

Response by CPL Brock Randolph made Oct 16 at 2017 11:20 AM

2017-10-16T11:20:51-04:00

My 1sgt hq company 20th group 1988
Ft. McClellan Alabama
He was one of those guys that signed up at 15 or 16 during World War II and made military career. Then went to the National Guard. That old man could smoke all of us at PT I never seen anybody that old that could run like that.
I remember the first time I saw his glider wings I couldn't figure out what they were after asking around I was told that he was a glider trained World War II

Response by CPT Russ Brombacher made Oct 16 at 2017 11:38 AM

2017-10-16T11:38:55-04:00

Yes,we had 2 WWII vets in town who were in gliders when they served.....they wore their jackets with ribbons and badges every Memorial day,and Veterans day....I have one of the jackets that was given to me after one of them passed

Response by SGT Mark Crampton made Oct 16 at 2017 11:40 AM

2017-10-16T11:40:39-04:00

My 1st wife's father was in 101st WW II, she had his uniform and awards. He had CIB, glider badge, jump wings with 2 gold stars - combat jumps into Normandy and Operation Market Garden. He was at Bastone.

Response by SFC Pat Sullivan made Oct 16 at 2017 12:09 PM

2017-10-16T12:09:26-04:00

They'd have to be at least 80 years old.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 12:36 PM

2017-10-16T12:36:32-04:00

my great uncle Sgt. George Hassell had a glider badge, he was captured and died in the Korean War

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 12:43 PM

2017-10-16T12:43:49-04:00

Yes a ssg in my ait had one had no idea what it was tell later in my time in the army

Response by Sgt Daniel J. Daly made Oct 16 at 2017 1:02 PM

2017-10-16T13:02:24-04:00

No I have not. I believe they were given out during WWII when the US had gliders.

Response by PVT Andrew Franklin made Oct 16 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-10-16T13:36:21-04:00

Response by MAJ Bill Riddle made Oct 16 at 2017 2:17 PM

2017-10-16T14:17:16-04:00

Has it been awarded since WW2?

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Oct 16 at 2017 2:22 PM

2017-10-16T14:22:48-04:00

MG Eugene A. Salet was the President of Georgia Military College while I was a Cadet there. He earned Glider Wings sometimes during WWII.
He was also 1LT Audie L.Murphy's Battalion Commander in the 3rd ID.

Response by SGT Robert Ryder made Oct 16 at 2017 2:34 PM

2017-10-16T14:34:44-04:00

Yes. I am also considered to be pretty old. Many of my cadre in basic training (1961) had served in WW2 & Korea. I did work for a SFC who served in the original "Darby's Rangers."

Response by PO2 Nick Burke made Oct 16 at 2017 3:52 PM

2017-10-16T15:52:44-04:00

Yes at some of my American Legion meetings. Just one man left.

Response by Col Russell Lewellen III made Oct 16 at 2017 4:10 PM

2017-10-16T16:10:26-04:00

Nevet

Response by SSgt David McCroskey made Oct 16 at 2017 5:26 PM

2017-10-16T17:26:57-04:00

I joined the AirForce in 1981 and in all that time I saw 1 and he had been in the Army 20 years when I Asked him about it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 5:44 PM

2017-10-16T17:44:49-04:00

The fellow who lived across the street from my parents had one. He was a glider pilot in WW2. Col.Harry R. Russell. Yes, I knew what it was. He wore both glider wings and command pilot's wings. He served 32 years in the Army and Air Force. The reason I recognized the insignia was because I am not only an Air Force BRAT, but also retired Army NCO. My Dad served 23 years as a Dental Officer in the Army and Air Force. My Mother was one of the original WACs.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 5:55 PM

2017-10-16T17:55:32-04:00

The first only only time I seen someone with a glider badge was the first platoon Sgt that I had This was back in the beginning of 2005 he retired shortly after I came into the unit

Response by TSgt Rick Gross made Oct 16 at 2017 5:56 PM

2017-10-16T17:56:26-04:00

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Oct 16 at 2017 6:26 PM

2017-10-16T18:26:10-04:00

I saw a WWII vet wearing one. But other than that no. It is for all practical purposes an obsolete award.

Response by COL Henry DelCastillo Jr made Oct 16 at 2017 6:26 PM

2017-10-16T18:26:17-04:00

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 6:52 PM

2017-10-16T18:52:40-04:00

No i haven't

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2017 7:04 PM

2017-10-16T19:04:39-04:00

Knew several veterans from the WWII 11th Airborne Division that earned the badge when I was stationed at Campbell.

Response by SFC Tom Duffy made Oct 16 at 2017 7:26 PM

2017-10-16T19:26:12-04:00

Once back in 1962, asked what it was. Fellow Sgt was about 45 yr old former WW11 vet, never saw it again

Response by CW4 Clark Stahl made Oct 16 at 2017 7:27 PM

2017-10-16T19:27:11-04:00

I've never actually seen this badge, but we had a good family friend who most likely had one, with clusters (kidding). He'd only talk about it infrequently, usually after consuming copious quantities of alcohol at our holiday table, and his story was incredible. As a glider pilot he survived THREE (night, of course) landings (hedgerows were a bitch he said, can't see the bloody things until it's too late), walking away from two, and being carried away from the third. After his passing the stories were verified true when relatives went through his memorabilia. Definitely one of the unsung heroes.

Response by SFC Deb N Bob Spruill made Oct 16 at 2017 7:53 PM

2017-10-16T19:53:45-04:00

Not really

Response by MSgt Dennis Reddecliff made Oct 16 at 2017 7:58 PM

2017-10-16T19:58:12-04:00

1 my father in law was in the 876 combat engineers WW II

Response by PO2 Matthew Porter made Oct 16 at 2017 8:02 PM

2017-10-16T20:02:50-04:00

None

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Oct 16 at 2017 8:13 PM

2017-10-16T20:13:06-04:00

I met one he was at a Veterans home had to look twice and still had to ask never heard of one before or since.

Response by MSG John Hundahl made Oct 16 at 2017 8:55 PM

2017-10-16T20:55:20-04:00

Yes, 1971 BCT Committee Group, Ft. LEWIS. commander was a Glider Pilot with 82nd during WWII and flew one into Normandy

Response by MSG Thomas O'Neill made Oct 16 at 2017 9:26 PM

2017-10-16T21:26:08-04:00

Spent 22 years in the Army, never saw one.

Response by CW4 Dan Green made Oct 16 at 2017 10:09 PM

2017-10-16T22:09:14-04:00

When I was in Vietnam in 1971 the Warrant on my team, CW4 Carl Zych, had a glider wings. He flew a glider into Normandy during D Day when he was Enlisted.

Response by SSG Milton Omlid made Oct 16 at 2017 10:49 PM

2017-10-16T22:49:23-04:00

My dad has one on his uniform. He was in Gliders with the 101th.WWII.

Response by 1SG Don Fendley made Oct 16 at 2017 11:04 PM

2017-10-16T23:04:14-04:00

Yes my 1ST Sgt in AIT at FORT JACKSON SC in 1964-65

Response by SPC Mike Baker made Oct 17 at 2017 12:04 AM

2017-10-17T00:04:06-04:00

Only a ww2 vetran

Response by Sgt Mike Jacobi made Oct 17 at 2017 12:22 AM

2017-10-17T00:22:32-04:00

Outside of WW2 Airborne Glider troops never heard of anyone having one.

Response by Sgt Mike Jacobi made Oct 17 at 2017 12:25 AM

2017-10-17T00:25:40-04:00

Anyone I meet who really earned one I will stand and render a salute whatever rank he holds.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Oct 17 at 2017 12:42 AM

2017-10-17T00:42:08-04:00

SGT Private RallyPoint Member Yes. At lower Ft MacArthur, CA in 1962, one senior NCO wore a Glider Badge. Another wore a Ranger Tab, courtesy of his service with Merrill’s Marauders.

Response by SFC David Tyner made Oct 17 at 2017 1:43 AM

2017-10-17T01:43:36-04:00

In 91 a local Kiwanis club arranged for a national guard aviation unit to send a blackhawk helicopter and land on the memorial grounds. Everyone wanted to talk to the pilots, they were interested in talking to the two glider pilots from WW11.

Response by SP5 Mick Gaines made Oct 17 at 2017 2:21 AM

2017-10-17T02:21:04-04:00

Served from 1970-1975 82nd ABN. Never saw one on a Fatigue or Class A uniform

Response by SCPO Lawrence Cox made Oct 17 at 2017 2:52 AM

2017-10-17T02:52:48-04:00

Probably not, don’t know what that term represents.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2017 5:18 AM

2017-10-17T05:18:25-04:00

Wrong thread, removed original post. Apologies.

Response by SSG Richard Bergeron made Oct 17 at 2017 6:42 AM

2017-10-17T06:42:13-04:00

My wife's uncle,ww2,Holland

Response by SPC David Brice made Oct 17 at 2017 7:25 AM

2017-10-17T07:25:14-04:00

I was with 82nd from 1975 to 1977, but do not recall seeing any. Maybe possible at that time, but highly unlikely

Response by SPC Tim Day made Oct 17 at 2017 8:53 AM

2017-10-17T08:53:32-04:00

No. Never seen. Have they been used ever or at all since WW II?

Response by SGT Mike Mullins made Oct 17 at 2017 9:19 AM

2017-10-17T09:19:32-04:00

No never. Not even a WWII guy. Worked at VA in Dallas for long time. Never saw one.

Response by MSgt L Lee Parmeter made Oct 17 at 2017 9:43 AM

2017-10-17T09:43:10-04:00

Yes I have seen a glider badge. My good Friend David Hall trained in Lumberton NC and flew a glider into Normandy. He was a Chief Master Sergeant and retired as a major. He passed away a few months ago at 95. A great American and war hero. I will miss you Dave.

Response by SPC Jason Sanford made Oct 17 at 2017 9:47 AM

2017-10-17T09:47:31-04:00

Response by Sgt Lee Humiston made Oct 17 at 2017 9:53 AM

2017-10-17T09:53:54-04:00

On a WW II vet only ...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2017 11:00 AM

2017-10-17T11:00:37-04:00

I had a 12 year break in service . In 1992 for our wall locker display the glider patch was still required to be sewn on the dress green cap.(I only know that cover by one name and can't repeat it on here. Lol. That was B Co 1-325 AIR.
True story

Response by C/TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2017 11:00 AM

2017-10-17T11:00:42-04:00

Response by MAJ Knud Foss made Oct 17 at 2017 11:27 AM

2017-10-17T11:27:25-04:00

only among veterans

Response by LTC Joe Kotch made Oct 17 at 2017 11:35 AM

2017-10-17T11:35:14-04:00

Only at a WW II reunion at Fort Campbell.

Response by SGT Carla Herling made Oct 17 at 2017 11:46 AM

2017-10-17T11:46:16-04:00

My dad has one, but he's 86 years old!

Response by SPC Leonard Rose made Oct 17 at 2017 1:15 PM

2017-10-17T13:15:07-04:00

Never that I can remember

Response by MSG Loren Tomblin made Oct 17 at 2017 2:20 PM

2017-10-17T14:20:37-04:00

The biggest faker is one with a GCM with a "V" device. Mine was revoked by LTC Scott even though I protected the honor of the 1/15th Inf Battle group In Bamberg when a trooper from a unit across the parade field insulted our unit. A little humor is good.

Response by COL Eric Ebb made Oct 17 at 2017 4:39 PM

2017-10-17T16:39:36-04:00

I saw one. Wisconsin National Guard. Doctor. Old as the hills. 1983.

Response by CW2 Ron Blaisdell made Oct 17 at 2017 6:03 PM

2017-10-17T18:03:52-04:00

My father, who was a WWII vet, was a trained glider pilot. Never flew in combat, as he was shifted to the Pacific theater with the Americal Division.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2017 7:13 PM

2017-10-17T19:13:13-04:00

Not since WWII! Lmao wtf!

Response by PO1 Stan Ellefson made Oct 17 at 2017 9:27 PM

2017-10-17T21:27:47-04:00

Probably not issued since 1946 or so. Anyone that has one is most likely is in their mid 90's and got it during WW2.

Response by SFC Zack Finney made Oct 18 at 2017 12:13 AM

2017-10-18T00:13:16-04:00

Yes. 11th SFG (A) USAR out of Winston Salem, NC, some time citca 81 -83. We had an old crusty E-7 on my team, think maybe he was Heavy weapons Sgt. He wore Glider wings, I can remember the war stories he could tell about the GIR. Intersting note, he son was a MSG and team Sgt on one of the other teams!

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2017 12:14 AM

2017-10-18T00:14:58-04:00

I had the honor of jumping with a few of the D-Day vets back in the late 1980s over in Israel, including Jack Schlegel, who I believe also wore Glider wings. They were tough old guys, but definitely the last of that breed.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2017 1:14 AM

2017-10-18T01:14:46-04:00

Hugh Nibley was assigned to, and trained on, the gliders but was pulled on D-Day. In his book, he talks about their high casualty rate because, well, they simply crashed. https://www.amazon.com/Sergeant-Nibley-Ph-D-Memories-Screaming/dp/ [login to see]

Amazon.com: Sergeant Nibley, Ph.D.: Memories of an Unlikely Screaming Eagle (9781573458450): Hugh...

Amazon.com: Sergeant Nibley, Ph.D.: Memories of an Unlikely Screaming Eagle (9781573458450): Hugh Nibley, Alex Nibley: Books

Response by PFC Michael Halk made Oct 18 at 2017 4:24 AM

2017-10-18T04:24:40-04:00

Good god I hope to hell glitter had not made it on to our uniforms!!! And I'd its real what the fuck next unicorns shitting rainbows !?!?

Response by SSG Jeff Gerfen made Oct 18 at 2017 6:11 AM

2017-10-18T06:11:48-04:00

The Army converted most of the glider infantry or artillery units into regular infantry or artillery units. I think the Air Force Academy still does some glider training. But as others have already said if you see some young soldier wearing a glider badge he is a faker, most soldiers who do wear it are more than likely World War II veterans. So you have better be an elderly soldier or you will be called to account for stolen valor

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2017 8:23 AM

2017-10-18T08:23:59-04:00

My grandfather, a veteran of D-day, the Battle of the Bulge, Operation Market Garden and the assault on Berlin, was glider infantry and crashed into Normandy.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2017 9:51 AM

2017-10-18T09:51:14-04:00

A WW II Veteran from the 101st ABN DIV.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Oct 18 at 2017 11:46 AM

2017-10-18T11:46:40-04:00

Yes, as a boy I got to visit with a couple friends of Paul Dovhaluks who were WWII ,101st veterans that were both Glider and Airborne qualified who had their badges on their uniforms.

Response by 1SG Dennis Hicks made Oct 18 at 2017 1:14 PM

2017-10-18T13:14:27-04:00

That's to easy NOBODY Serving Today can wear one, the last folks to earn and wear them served during WWII. You will only see them on WWII vets, in murals about WWII and in museums. Not counting sales of reproductions. Some time back I had a picture of my dad with his Jump Wings and a buddy of his that was in the 325 GIR. that's the last guy I saw wearing them other than vets that visited during ALL AMERICAN Week down at Brag in the 70's.

Response by SFC William Ewing made Oct 18 at 2017 2:22 PM

2017-10-18T14:22:15-04:00

Back when I first joined a few were still around 1970

Response by SGT Arthur Dolph made Oct 18 at 2017 2:31 PM

2017-10-18T14:31:31-04:00

When I was in Martin Army Hospital from VN wounds, an Army Sgt. interviewed me about equipment overseas. He was wearing a glider badge on his uniform. This was in 1969 & he was a senior sgt.

Response by SSG Edward Geer made Oct 18 at 2017 3:08 PM

2017-10-18T15:08:29-04:00

Yes, my dad. He was with the 11th Airborne Div. back in 1946 in Japan.

Response by SP5 Joel McDargh made Oct 18 at 2017 4:45 PM

2017-10-18T16:45:55-04:00

Only man I knew to wear them was the late CW4 Darrell Barber. He served in Vietnam with Special Forces and the 173rd. I have an unopened glider wing amongst some of my gear. Don't know how I came by them. Part of military history long gone.

Response by AN Joseph Catt made Oct 18 at 2017 7:18 PM

2017-10-18T19:18:20-04:00

Great story . Would love to find a Glider badge

Response by Cpl Steve Byrne made Oct 18 at 2017 8:28 PM

2017-10-18T20:28:24-04:00

I believe the late senator Storm Thurman, was a glider pilot in WW2, I read once he lived to be at least 100 years old and in his mid to late 40s during the war

Response by SGT Johnny Owens made Oct 18 at 2017 8:29 PM

2017-10-18T20:29:14-04:00

Never heard of it, but I can guess what it is. I'm going to have to get me one of those for my bogus display cabinet.

Response by COL Richard Todd made Oct 18 at 2017 10:04 PM

2017-10-18T22:04:51-04:00

When I was a 2 LT in the 82hd Ann Division in 1967 I saw several on very senior WW II veteran NCOs. They had served in the 325 Glider Infantry during that war.

Response by SFC Keith Bailey made Oct 18 at 2017 11:24 PM

2017-10-18T23:24:08-04:00

Response by SSG Jeff Littleton made Oct 19 at 2017 12:48 AM

2017-10-19T00:48:09-04:00

My neighbor growing up was a Glider instructor towards the end of WWII.

Response by MSG James Bates made Oct 19 at 2017 12:49 AM

2017-10-19T00:49:18-04:00

Response by LT James Minor made Oct 19 at 2017 1:42 AM

2017-10-19T01:42:06-04:00

Response by SFC Michael Cote made Oct 19 at 2017 2:40 AM

2017-10-19T02:40:10-04:00

The 'Glider Badge' was awarded during WWII and only to those soldiers who were assigned to an airborne regiment specifically designated as a glider unit. Those units were the 88th, 187th, 188th, 325th, 326th, and 327th Glider Infantry Regiments.

Response by Sharon Lee made Oct 19 at 2017 5:51 AM

2017-10-19T05:51:09-04:00

Nope. How can families represent with the badges?

Response by SPC John Baxley made Oct 19 at 2017 8:42 AM

2017-10-19T08:42:50-04:00

Only my grandfather.......

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Oct 19 at 2017 8:59 AM

2017-10-19T08:59:15-04:00

Yes, but probably only because my Father served in WWII and I was around military posts as a child.

Response by CSM Jim Corrin made Oct 19 at 2017 10:00 AM

2017-10-19T10:00:31-04:00

Yes. I was a young Drill Sergeant and there was a Master Sergeant (very senior) in Range Control who had earned glider wings. I was CSM over a battalion (1/317th) that had been previously designated as part of the 317th Glider Infantry Regiment that was part of the 80th Division.

Response by PO1 Michael Eberly made Oct 19 at 2017 11:26 AM

2017-10-19T11:26:29-04:00

Saw it one time on an elderly gentleman at my fathers home town cafe! He was an awesome guy very mild mannered unfortunately after he passed was when the whole town actually found out about what he actually did during the war! God speed sir and thank you for your Generation and sacrifice!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2017 11:36 AM

2017-10-19T11:36:59-04:00

Yes, my father, Lt. Col. Judson Spence, Sr., wore one. He was a master parachutist and a "glider rider".

Response by A1C Bobby Manning made Oct 19 at 2017 12:20 PM

2017-10-19T12:20:11-04:00

Glider badge would probably be a World War Two badger for glider pilots

Response by GySgt Bob Lyda made Oct 19 at 2017 4:53 PM

2017-10-19T16:53:55-04:00

Yes my grandfather

Response by SFC Ernest Szymkowiak made Oct 19 at 2017 5:52 PM

2017-10-19T17:52:13-04:00

Yes

Response by PFC Merwin Stapp made Oct 19 at 2017 6:41 PM

2017-10-19T18:41:52-04:00

Not since the second world war that i know of has anyone worn a Glider Badge

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Oct 19 at 2017 9:29 PM

2017-10-19T21:29:58-04:00

Never glider, but there was a Navy pilot with lighter than air wings when I was in flight school

Response by SP5 Joseph Vaughn made Oct 19 at 2017 10:13 PM

2017-10-19T22:13:47-04:00

I recently came across a WWII Vet with Glider Wings on his hat. I thanked him for his service, and commented about his wings. He said I was one of very few who knew what Glider Wings even were.

Response by MSgt Scott Hennigar made Oct 19 at 2017 10:58 PM

2017-10-19T22:58:43-04:00

Charles DeGlopper from Grand Island, NY. His sister in law was my fourth grade teacher. Everyone in our class held his Congressional Medal of Honor. I’ll remember that day as long as I live.

Response by SP5 Elden Morris made Oct 20 at 2017 6:29 AM

2017-10-20T06:29:07-04:00

When I was in the Army, I saw quite a few wearing the glider wings. The difference was there were still WW2 veterans still on active duty in those days.

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made Oct 20 at 2017 7:03 AM

2017-10-20T07:03:59-04:00

I was in 1-325AIR in the 82nd 2BCT. I got out last year after serving last 3 years in the Army with them. They just completed a deployment to Iraq a few months ago. 325 Airborne Infantry Regiment was originally 325 Glider Infantry Regiment. They were one of the original glider regiments of WWII. At one of 1-325AIR's battalion balls they had one of the guys that served with the unit in WWII. He had some stories. There is even an iconic poster of a soldier from this unit during the battle of the Bulge.

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made Oct 20 at 2017 7:14 AM

2017-10-20T07:14:26-04:00

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2017 7:20 AM

2017-10-20T07:20:28-04:00

Small army i know the warant being pinned in that photoXD, and i love being able to learn things on here that dont normaly get brought up in day to day activities

Response by SFC Quinn Chastant made Oct 20 at 2017 11:41 AM

2017-10-20T11:41:10-04:00

I have seen the Glider Badge in museums on uniforms of those who fought in WWII; Aside from that, I have not seen one worn by service members only re-enactors.

Response by CPL Ralph Moschler made Oct 20 at 2017 2:41 PM

2017-10-20T14:41:47-04:00

101

Response by SGM Roger McCullough made Oct 20 at 2017 2:59 PM

2017-10-20T14:59:19-04:00

Two of my brothers were awarded the Glider badge while serving with the 82d Airborne Division during the Korean War from 50-53.

Response by SGT Brianna MacKinnon made Oct 20 at 2017 8:20 PM

2017-10-20T20:20:54-04:00

I had no need to google Glider Badge. I am an Army Brat and amateur WWII Historian. I also served in the 101st from 84 to 86. There should be zero Service Members still in uniform who would be old enough to have earned this distinctive badge.

Response by SPC Robert Coventry made Oct 20 at 2017 8:33 PM

2017-10-20T20:33:12-04:00

When I was in the 101st we wore C Caps with this glider patch on them

Response by SGT Gary Ogden made Oct 20 at 2017 8:48 PM

2017-10-20T20:48:04-04:00

Never

Response by CPL Eddie Delagrange made Oct 20 at 2017 10:01 PM

2017-10-20T22:01:07-04:00

Glider badge that's WWII award

Response by CPT William Moller made Oct 20 at 2017 11:44 PM

2017-10-20T23:44:23-04:00

Never

Response by SP6 Bill Wescott made Oct 20 at 2017 11:47 PM

2017-10-20T23:47:52-04:00

My Dad went through Airborne School in ‘46. He received a jump badge, glider badge and was trained as as rigger.

Response by LCpl Jim Wagner made Oct 21 at 2017 1:46 AM

2017-10-21T01:46:49-04:00

My Uncle Ned Moore, Chief of Staff (Acting) of the 101st Airborne at Bastogne arrived at Normandy via gliders, as did all the Division Staff.

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Oct 21 at 2017 2:01 AM

2017-10-21T02:01:00-04:00

Being a Sea Service Member (4 Navy, 26 Coast Guard) I never saw anyone wearing "Glider" Wings - either as a pilot or troop.

I served on the USS MIDWAY (CVA-41) during Vietnam from 1972 - 1974; assigned to the Weapons Department in the Guided Missile Division. Our LCDR Division Officer was one of the Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) Pilots flying the C-1A cargo plane; a small twin engine plane that made regular mail runs and bring back essential repair parts. One of the other Weapons Division Officers, a Mustang LCDR (former enlisted) was the object of good natured ribbing by our division officer; we were always egged into calling him the "Blimp Pilot" still on active duty by our boss. We thought our boss was joking until one personnel inspection that the officers wore their chocker whites with medals; he wore regular wings, but also wore these:

Actual blimp pilot wings!

Response by CW4 Ted Doucette made Oct 21 at 2017 2:03 AM

2017-10-21T02:03:53-04:00

Yes, my 1st Sergeant in 1968 at Ft Benning was a WW2 vet and had a glider badge>

Response by CSM Arthur Langlo Sr. made Oct 21 at 2017 9:43 AM

2017-10-21T09:43:11-04:00

I only knew one soldier a SGM I work with in 1974 just as he was retiring!

Response by Sgt Tony Ramos made Oct 21 at 2017 10:46 AM

2017-10-21T10:46:12-04:00

I know about the badge due to my wife's grandfather having one from his service in WWII.

Response by SGT Jay Richardson made Oct 21 at 2017 11:35 AM

2017-10-21T11:35:28-04:00

The only glider badge I have ever seen was being worn by a WW2 veteran.

Response by CW5 Roger Jacobs made Oct 21 at 2017 11:41 AM

2017-10-21T11:41:23-04:00

I have back in 1978 and 1979 on Ft Bragg.

Response by SGT Jonathan Persons made Oct 21 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-10-21T12:34:26-04:00

Seeing as how the last glider unit was disbanded shortly after WW2, there is nobody on Active duty who qualifies to wear it.
Anyone who is wearing it needs corrective action taken on them.

Response by SFC Rodney Jackson made Oct 21 at 2017 1:21 PM

2017-10-21T13:21:41-04:00

Not since the early '70s and that was on a very old CSM....

Response by COL Andrew Burns made Oct 21 at 2017 2:08 PM

2017-10-21T14:08:19-04:00

Last one was a WWII vet. Maybe they will bring them back like the dirigible?

Response by SPC Travis Grizzard made Oct 21 at 2017 2:25 PM

2017-10-21T14:25:07-04:00

Yes I have. He was a WWII vet, flew a glider in on D-Day. He was wearing it on his hat. I met him when I rode in the escort to the airport for Honor Flight. I had to ask him what it was.

Response by CW5 Edward "Tate" Jones Jr. made Oct 21 at 2017 5:25 PM

2017-10-21T17:25:11-04:00

YES. When I entered the Army in 1964 there were a fair number of WWII veterans still on active duty. As a matter of fact, my Father who served in WWII, KOREA AND VN wore a glider badge. I saw SHAPE patches and several other WWII related accoutrements.

Response by SSG William Henrickson made Oct 21 at 2017 5:29 PM

2017-10-21T17:29:35-04:00

None

Response by SFC Robert Lewis made Oct 21 at 2017 5:49 PM

2017-10-21T17:49:22-04:00

I have only ever seen one person with a Glider Badge and he was a retired World War II vet

Response by CSM Charles Heimerdinger made Oct 21 at 2017 6:00 PM

2017-10-21T18:00:07-04:00

I have met one WWII soldier that has the glider badge about 10 years ago. He was living in the same assisted living community as my grand parents unfortunately this great man is no longer with us.

Response by SSG Randy Freshour made Oct 21 at 2017 7:34 PM

2017-10-21T19:34:31-04:00

I've seen the Glider Patch plenty of times, including when I wore it myself.

Response by CW5 Ranger Dave made Oct 21 at 2017 7:40 PM

2017-10-21T19:40:00-04:00

My Dad. One of the last Glider Riders. 87 years old and still Army Strong! My Pop Rocks!

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Oct 21 at 2017 9:09 PM

2017-10-21T21:09:44-04:00

In my mind the gliders were still a better way to insert artillery than airborne. Now the helicopter is better than both. Airborne drops were a mess, crew landed one place the gun in pieces. In Vietnam it became a drill. Those Chinooks could bring you in ready to fire.

The 75mm Pack Howitzer was designed to be taken apart and carried over the Himilayas on the back of a Donkey. It had to be assembled when you landed. The 105mm Howitzer was too heavy for the glider. The 4.2in (107mm) Mortar lacked range.
After WWII the Army abandoned gliders and airdropped the 105mm. the tended to fall apart on impact.
In Vietnam after the enemy started using rockets that had a longer range than the 105mm, it became a field gun. They airlifted in with the Infantry and set up a firebase

Response by SFC Mike Milligan made Oct 21 at 2017 9:26 PM

2017-10-21T21:26:44-04:00

Yes, my grandfather

Response by CPT Greg Myers made Oct 21 at 2017 9:42 PM

2017-10-21T21:42:13-04:00

my 90 year old ww2 vet father is a glider rider. 82nd WW2 and post WW2

Response by SSG William Hazeley made Oct 22 at 2017 12:07 AM

2017-10-22T00:07:01-04:00

Only met one gentleman in DC at the WWII Memorial. He was wearing one. Speaking with him and where he served during WWII, I believe it was awarded to him. Thank you sir for your service.

Response by TSgt Bill Rubino made Oct 22 at 2017 1:32 AM

2017-10-22T01:32:10-04:00

No I have not.

Response by PVT Ed Pederson made Oct 22 at 2017 5:44 AM

2017-10-22T05:44:03-04:00

Never heard of it.

Response by SSgt Rito Rodriguez made Oct 22 at 2017 6:10 AM

2017-10-22T06:10:29-04:00

No I never have

Response by SFC James Kennett made Oct 22 at 2017 7:25 AM

2017-10-22T07:25:18-04:00

Response by LTC John Rogers made Oct 22 at 2017 8:32 AM

2017-10-22T08:32:25-04:00

Yes, about 30 years ago when I was a 2LT. The soldier was pretty old

Response by SGT David Jones made Oct 22 at 2017 9:28 AM

2017-10-22T09:28:59-04:00

Harold Dally was with 101st 527 glider group (I think 527 is correct) during WWII. Years ago I saw his badge and cap.

Response by SSG Steve Tate made Oct 22 at 2017 1:11 PM

2017-10-22T13:11:39-04:00

Yep, wore one myself. Or rather the patch after graduating airborne school

Response by CW2 Guy Compton made Oct 22 at 2017 2:54 PM

2017-10-22T14:54:28-04:00

When I went to Ranger School (ass 7-79) there was an RI Augmentee, SGM Jesse something. Don't remember his last name. He was a WW2 and Korea vet and wore the glider badge. Talked like a preacher and didn't have to act like a pick to get his point across.

Response by SP6 Clark Burdine made Oct 22 at 2017 3:29 PM

2017-10-22T15:29:41-04:00

I have seen two individuals who wore glider wings.

Response by PO1 Tharin Young made Oct 22 at 2017 4:43 PM

2017-10-22T16:43:32-04:00

Heard of them, never seen them.

Response by CPT Bill Coleman made Oct 22 at 2017 5:14 PM

2017-10-22T17:14:22-04:00

On of my Battalion Commandesr's in the Reserves was a WWII vet and was awarded the Glider Patch.

Response by SGT Dennis Gerke made Oct 22 at 2017 5:21 PM

2017-10-22T17:21:35-04:00

So what is the hardest badge to get in the service

Response by SSG William Dickerson made Oct 22 at 2017 7:07 PM

2017-10-22T19:07:10-04:00

Nope never and I did 22 years

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2017 7:26 PM

2017-10-22T19:26:07-04:00

ZERO

Response by CPL Richard Amon made Oct 22 at 2017 7:30 PM

2017-10-22T19:30:05-04:00

Yes

Response by SPC Dl Maffett made Oct 22 at 2017 7:41 PM

2017-10-22T19:41:34-04:00

nope

Response by CPL John Finch made Oct 22 at 2017 9:11 PM

2017-10-22T21:11:51-04:00

Gliders were last used in WWII.

Response by PFC Maxo Marc made Oct 22 at 2017 10:46 PM

2017-10-22T22:46:59-04:00

To my knowledge the army did away with the glider badge in the 50s

Response by SSG Wayne Wood made Oct 23 at 2017 11:02 AM

2017-10-23T11:02:59-04:00

I had the privilege of marching next to a "Glider Rider" in the 82nd Airborne Division Review in 2014. He rode the kite into Normandy and Holland. Humbling indeed.

Response by LTC Charles Patchin made Oct 23 at 2017 11:47 AM

2017-10-23T11:47:37-04:00

Oh, yes. Many. But they were WWII'ers. Some convertedat the end of the war and wore the ParaGlider badge to show both quals. A lot of the guys were Arty and made the transition. CSM Stan Kusminski, ( ret), (Deceased 2016)

Response by SPC Gerald Alberti made Oct 23 at 2017 12:03 PM

2017-10-23T12:03:41-04:00

Nope not in person

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 12:31 PM

2017-10-23T12:31:45-04:00

The only glider badge I’ve ever seen was on my Grandfathers wall. He was a WWII and Korea war Veteran. He was part of the 325th GIR.

Response by 1SG William T. Wade III made Oct 23 at 2017 2:08 PM

2017-10-23T14:08:50-04:00

The only folks I have seen wearing them were WWII Veterans here at Bragg, and at Ft Campbell, KY.

Response by CPL Thomas Adams made Oct 23 at 2017 2:25 PM

2017-10-23T14:25:11-04:00

My neighbor growing up, we lived net to a recently closed airport. He had been its manager and a pilot. He was in the VFW but was tight-lipped around me, a kid. He did have an M1 Garand, a M1911a1, a box of pineapples, and a garrison cap with a Glider flash.

Response by SGT Vaughn Neubauer made Oct 23 at 2017 3:45 PM

2017-10-23T15:45:01-04:00

My Uncle Bailey had one. I'm pretty sure he was 325 in W.W.II

Response by COL Dallas Wurst made Oct 23 at 2017 4:39 PM

2017-10-23T16:39:53-04:00

Never and I know a lot of WWII Vets.

Response by SGT Marc George made Oct 23 at 2017 5:36 PM

2017-10-23T17:36:24-04:00

Yes I have seen it worn by 2 men but both were WWII vets and one was my CSM way back in 1971.

Response by CPL Timothy Neigh made Oct 23 at 2017 5:48 PM

2017-10-23T17:48:24-04:00

Response by SPC Ric Patterson made Oct 23 at 2017 5:49 PM

2017-10-23T17:49:53-04:00

Just some WW2 vets including my uncle

Response by CPO Keith Morgan made Oct 23 at 2017 6:36 PM

2017-10-23T18:36:22-04:00

They have not done that since Normandy

Response by SFC Sovan Son made Oct 23 at 2017 8:04 PM

2017-10-23T20:04:14-04:00

Glider Badge is no longer authorize. The badge was part of the 101st Airborne unit in WII.

Response by SSgt Mac McNeil made Oct 23 at 2017 8:55 PM

2017-10-23T20:55:07-04:00

Not after WWII, perhaps shortly after...no gliders in Korea or Vietnam as far as I know, so anyone wearing the badge would either be a (very young during War II) very long service veteran. I met a retired LTC with the glider badge, master parachutist, pilot and half a dozen sets of wings from other countries- he had wings from jumping with the FFL in the mid-60s... serious badass

Response by LTC Walter Leaumont made Oct 23 at 2017 9:54 PM

2017-10-23T21:54:28-04:00

Yes, it was during the 50th anniversary of D-Day back in '94. He was a spry young man who was in his mid seventies at the time

Response by CAPT Randy Stroud made Oct 23 at 2017 9:59 PM

2017-10-23T21:59:22-04:00

These Glider wings were earned and worn by Flight Officer Clarence M Stroud, US Army Air Corps, WWII.
One of his two proud sons

Response by SSG Steven Cody made Oct 23 at 2017 10:59 PM

2017-10-23T22:59:06-04:00

I met one, a WW2 82nd ABN DIV vet I met. Awesome guy.

Response by SFC Kenneth Hall made Oct 23 at 2017 11:07 PM

2017-10-23T23:07:49-04:00

My Pop was awarded this in Southern France during the Big One in 44.

Response by PFC Justin LaGrange made Oct 23 at 2017 11:12 PM

2017-10-23T23:12:50-04:00

None that i can ever recall

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 11:19 PM

2017-10-23T23:19:14-04:00

not in a real long time

Response by MSG Terry Younts made Oct 24 at 2017 1:33 AM

2017-10-24T01:33:55-04:00

SFC Gaynerd Strand. Retired from the 11th SFG(A) in 88? 89? He was in 82nd in 49? 50? and went through Glider training.

Response by SPC Scott Currens made Oct 24 at 2017 1:41 AM

2017-10-24T01:41:37-04:00

I have only seen one. It was on a WWII Vet, when I commented about it he said you won't see many, because the ones that didn't die on missions are a little ashamed of it because the majority of them couldn't make it through jump school and were offered glider school instead. I personally have mad respect for anyone that earned the right to wear it.

Response by SP5 Lem Clark made Oct 24 at 2017 7:24 AM

2017-10-24T07:24:42-04:00

My M/Sgt (can't remember his name now) in 1959 wore both Combat Parachuist and Glider Wings!

Response by SSG Brian G. made Oct 24 at 2017 9:27 AM

2017-10-24T09:27:29-04:00

I have only had occasion to see three such badges. Two of them being on WW2 Veterans. The third being on a USAF Cadet. The USAF maintains a Soaring (Glider) program as part of their cadet officer flight training. I am not aware at this time of the Air Force having an active badge for this skill.

Response by SFC Race Bickley made Oct 24 at 2017 10:16 AM

2017-10-24T10:16:38-04:00

Response by SGT Craig Manning made Oct 24 at 2017 11:12 AM

2017-10-24T11:12:46-04:00

Knew a man (long since past) who wore it legit was airborne and a Korea vet

Response by PO3 Jj Dell made Oct 24 at 2017 11:55 AM

2017-10-24T11:55:27-04:00

I'm not aware of any soldier getting a glider badge since WW2 or maybe a few years after. In fact, from the books I read you didn't want to be a glider guy because you didn't get the 55 bucks in jump pay that paratroopers got. Kinda sucks.

Response by Maj Tim Timmins made Oct 24 at 2017 1:04 PM

2017-10-24T13:04:34-04:00

Response by LCpl Adam Brittain made Oct 24 at 2017 7:02 PM

2017-10-24T19:02:34-04:00

Cadets in the Civil Air Patrol can earn a Glider Badge, if they subsequently join the Military they Legally are Authorized to wear all ribbons and medals they earned as a cadet.

Response by PO3 Tim Huddleston made Oct 24 at 2017 8:00 PM

2017-10-24T20:00:00-04:00

Response by SFC Clifton Dalton made Oct 25 at 2017 1:05 AM

2017-10-25T01:05:31-04:00

No I havnet..

Response by SPC Jonathon Strack made Oct 25 at 2017 6:53 AM

2017-10-25T06:53:32-04:00

My grandfather was a Glider Pilot in WWII. Not sure if he has the badge somewhere a lot of his medals were lost or stolen by family members.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 8:48 AM

2017-10-25T08:48:58-04:00

WWII vets who served in Airborne Units with Gliders are the most likely candidates to be seen wearing this badge. The badge was phased out of service with the development of airmobile- the precursor to Air Assault. You can still see the Glider symbol on the old service hat (the nickname started with a c...) worn by Soldiers in the 101st Abn Div and 82nd Abn, but that was phased out with the old Class A uniform. Doubtful there is anyone on Active Duty or in the National Guard who still is on duty that would have this badge.

Response by SSG Anthony Clark made Oct 25 at 2017 11:16 AM

2017-10-25T11:16:11-04:00

I didn't think that the Glider Badger had been awarded since WW2

Response by SSG Richard Hively made Oct 25 at 2017 11:23 AM

2017-10-25T11:23:17-04:00

Not during my 24 years of service since they, the Army no longer taught/trained this type of training since 1949 when classes were suspended.

Response by Joel Greene made Oct 25 at 2017 11:49 AM

2017-10-25T11:49:42-04:00

Yes

Response by MAJ Joseph Taylor made Oct 25 at 2017 12:10 PM

2017-10-25T12:10:25-04:00

Response by MSgt Roscoe Hodsdon made Oct 25 at 2017 1:23 PM

2017-10-25T13:23:38-04:00

Response by SGT John Graham made Oct 25 at 2017 1:50 PM

2017-10-25T13:50:09-04:00

Yes, my father was a W.W.II Glider Pilot. Went from being a "Flying Sergeant" to a "Flight Officer". My older brother had my dad's second lieutenant bars pinned on following his OCS graduation. I stayed enlisted.

Response by CPT Mike Peters made Oct 25 at 2017 2:32 PM

2017-10-25T14:32:14-04:00

Saw one in 1969.

Response by SGM Stephen Villalpando made Oct 25 at 2017 3:22 PM

2017-10-25T15:22:16-04:00

Yes I have. He was a Warrant officer that had served in special forces in Viet Nam.

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made Oct 25 at 2017 5:14 PM

2017-10-25T17:14:46-04:00

My first 1st Sgt a very long time ago.

Response by SPC Mitch Saret made Oct 25 at 2017 5:35 PM

2017-10-25T17:35:24-04:00

The only one's I've seen wearing it were WWII vets!

Response by SFC Gary Guyer made Oct 25 at 2017 6:42 PM

2017-10-25T18:42:24-04:00

Many,many moons ago. Not any in recent history.

Response by SN Bruce Caldwell made Oct 25 at 2017 8:35 PM

2017-10-25T20:35:18-04:00

To the best of my knowledge I've never seen one!

Response by SN Bruce Caldwell made Oct 25 at 2017 8:36 PM

2017-10-25T20:36:00-04:00

Very cool badge!

Response by CPT Jan Milles made Oct 25 at 2017 8:44 PM

2017-10-25T20:44:04-04:00

Early sixties/WW ll and Korea left overs

Response by James Radford made Oct 25 at 2017 8:48 PM

2017-10-25T20:48:45-04:00

Never. And there are few men that are alive today that are old enough to qualify.

Response by SGT Jesse Sizemore made Oct 25 at 2017 9:21 PM

2017-10-25T21:21:40-04:00

Great uncle had one. He landed on D-Day and fought on.

Response by SGT Joe Leffelman made Oct 25 at 2017 9:27 PM

2017-10-25T21:27:40-04:00

I wore it on my Cap. At that time, it was the tradition of the 101st.

Response by CW3 Walter Goerner made Oct 25 at 2017 9:56 PM

2017-10-25T21:56:35-04:00

I don't think I've seen one.

Response by SMSgt Paul Ringheiser made Oct 25 at 2017 9:57 PM

2017-10-25T21:57:17-04:00

There is a Soaring Society museum in Harris Hill, NY that has a tribute to glider troops. You had to be crazy to do this. But then who Ami to say what is crazy, I ran into burning buildings for a career.

Response by SSgt Rick Scharnberg made Oct 26 at 2017 12:12 AM

2017-10-26T00:12:02-04:00

When I was a kid at Loring Air Force Base Maine I met a Senior Master Sgt that had been a glider pilot in WWll. He was riffted after the war.

Response by Dennis Godzinski made Oct 26 at 2017 12:27 AM

2017-10-26T00:27:52-04:00

My father, 11th Airborne WW2

Response by PVT David Racette made Oct 26 at 2017 3:15 AM

2017-10-26T03:15:59-04:00

82nd ww2

Response by SSG Marty Martinez made Oct 26 at 2017 5:33 AM

2017-10-26T05:33:48-04:00

Yes. Several, when I first entered the Army in 1978. These were WWII, Korea and Vietnam Veterans.

Response by SPC John Miska made Oct 26 at 2017 5:46 AM

2017-10-26T05:46:27-04:00

Yes all WW2 Vets

Response by PFC Bob Merriman made Oct 26 at 2017 5:52 AM

2017-10-26T05:52:26-04:00

Negative.

Response by SSG Paul Newman made Oct 26 at 2017 8:14 AM

2017-10-26T08:14:34-04:00

Just like 95 yo veterans being interviewed about WWII.

Response by SFC Thomas Brown made Oct 26 at 2017 8:15 AM

2017-10-26T08:15:50-04:00

Anyone of those Glidermen from WWII. Check the history of the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment (GIR), later on, in order to salute the Regiment's past, they decided to remain slightly different than other Parachute Regiments by being called an Airborne Infantry Regiment. The same could be said of the 327th GIR/AIR which changed of course to an Air Assault Infantry Regiment. There were a few more Glider Regiments but their numeric designation slips my mind presently.

Response by PO3 Mike Bek made Oct 26 at 2017 10:53 AM

2017-10-26T10:53:59-04:00

I have seen many. Growing up by the airforce academy. The cadets are out flying gliders all the time. They get rated in the gliders.

Response by SPC Lee Reiland made Oct 26 at 2017 9:07 PM

2017-10-26T21:07:59-04:00

nope

Response by CPL Glen Lippincott made Oct 26 at 2017 9:24 PM

2017-10-26T21:24:54-04:00

I have never seen anyone wear it. My father was a medic and they wanted to assign him to a glider unit for Normandy invasion. High casualty rates on landings.

Response by Joseph Wyche made Oct 26 at 2017 9:40 PM

2017-10-26T21:40:21-04:00

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Oct 26 at 2017 11:12 PM

2017-10-26T23:12:54-04:00

I’ve seen this up here many times and always managed to bite my tongue.

Jesus, forgive me for i’m a sinner and a weak man...

I thought i saw a glider badge once but on closer examination i saw it was one of the propeller-beanie badges they give the 101st as a participation trophy.

I’m going straight to hell...

Response by SSgt Ed Gamble made Oct 27 at 2017 12:18 AM

2017-10-27T00:18:03-04:00

The 82nd rode gliders in WWII. That badge probably hasn't been earned in a long time,

Response by SGT John Gilbert made Oct 27 at 2017 10:38 AM

2017-10-27T10:38:48-04:00

didnt know we even had gliders past ww2 lol

Response by MSG Karl Arrington made Oct 27 at 2017 12:09 PM

2017-10-27T12:09:11-04:00

I have never seen anyone but I'm sure a few are still around.

Response by A1C George Montford made Oct 27 at 2017 12:43 PM

2017-10-27T12:43:35-04:00

My first sgt in 1957 Elmendorf AFB had his wings on his class A uniform.When I asked him what kind of wings they were he proud,y told me they were GLIDER PILOT WINGS.

Response by SSG Thomas Braumuller made Oct 27 at 2017 4:51 PM

2017-10-27T16:51:52-04:00

Never. But I am near The National WWII museum and we meet a lot of vets from the war

Response by PFC Dale Long made Oct 27 at 2017 9:55 PM

2017-10-27T21:55:55-04:00

Response by CMDCM Michael Weyrauch made Oct 27 at 2017 10:22 PM

2017-10-27T22:22:37-04:00

Response by SFC Kenneth Glass made Oct 28 at 2017 12:31 AM

2017-10-28T00:31:27-04:00

Response by Col Gregory Lewis made Oct 28 at 2017 11:55 AM

2017-10-28T11:55:26-04:00

The United States Air Force Academy has resurrected glider wings for cadets who instruct in the soaring program. The cadets are very proud of them for among other reasons, connects them to the past WWII veterans who flew gliders. I'm not sure if they can wear them after graduation?

Response by SMSgt Patrick Sampson made Oct 28 at 2017 1:37 PM

2017-10-28T13:37:02-04:00

I was in ROTC and both of my cadre wore glider badge on both their uniform and their cover. one was an airborne troop and the other piloted a glider. I look up to both men as heros and mentors. I ended up serving 29 yrs ending up as an E-8.

Response by SSG Rowland Priddy made Oct 28 at 2017 6:38 PM

2017-10-28T18:38:06-04:00

Response by SSG Troy Hartnagel made Oct 29 at 2017 1:19 AM

2017-10-29T01:19:41-04:00

The only person I know that was awarded a Glider Badge was a WW2 vet in a nursing home.

Response by LTC Philip DeCara made Oct 29 at 2017 4:34 AM

2017-10-29T04:34:35-04:00

My father served in WWII in a Airborne Glider unit. HE retired as a CSM in 1982 and the mrdal he cherished the most were his glider wings.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2017 4:38 AM

2017-10-29T04:38:56-04:00

had one NCO 10 years ago who had one he was in before Vietnam.

Response by SSG Cliff Karolak made Oct 29 at 2017 9:19 AM

2017-10-29T09:19:21-04:00

Yes at Davidson Army Airfield 1974. Second world war veteran.

Response by SGT Jonathan Lubecky made Oct 29 at 2017 11:17 AM

2017-10-29T11:17:27-04:00

I have seen someone who legitimately has a set of Navy Blimp pilot wings. Which look weird as hell.

Response by SPC Bruce Barthel made Oct 29 at 2017 12:25 PM

2017-10-29T12:25:30-04:00

Just in photos. Gliders were done by the end of WWII. I've only met 1 glider pilot, in the late 80s. I'm only aware of 2 partial gliders still in existence. 1 at the 82nd airborne museum and 1 at the Yankee Airforce in Bellville Mi.

Response by SFC Charles Temm made Oct 29 at 2017 2:52 PM

2017-10-29T14:52:36-04:00

I saw a couple uniformed retirees in my younger days (79 & later), don't remember any serving guys w/them tho.

Response by LTC Mike Fitzgerald made Oct 29 at 2017 6:39 PM

2017-10-29T18:39:25-04:00

Yes, assigned to the British Army Aviation School, 1975-1977, my Chief Flying Instructor (CFI), LTC Ken Mead, British Army Air Corps, wore glider wings. He was a glider pilot during WWII and flew gliders on D-Day and also during Operation Market Garden. Great man. Great pilot.

Response by SrA George Robbins made Oct 29 at 2017 7:27 PM

2017-10-29T19:27:32-04:00

Absolutely. Most graduates of USAFA earned one.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2017 12:25 AM

2017-10-31T00:25:33-04:00

Not in public but I have seen a pic of Hawley Smith floating around the internet.

http://honoringmarinveterans.org/hawley-smith/

Hawley Smith | Honoring Our Marin Veterans

Hawley Dwight Smith was born on October 26, 1924 in Denver, Colorado. As a child he lived in Denver, Connecticut, and later in Palo Alto. His father died when Hawley was only two and his mother had to take care of his siblings and him.

Response by CPT Andrew Wright made Nov 3 at 2017 8:41 AM

2017-11-03T08:41:26-04:00

When I was in the Texas National Guard way back in 1981 we had an SFC who was ancient (in his 50s) and he wore the Glider and Airborne Badges. He was also a Tarrant County Deputy Sheriff so I am pretty sure his Glider Badge was legit.

Response by SFC Bill Snyder made Nov 3 at 2017 8:30 PM

2017-11-03T20:30:32-04:00

Yes.

Response by COL David L. made Nov 5 at 2017 8:31 AM

2017-11-05T08:31:15-05:00

Yes, my WWII Uncle had one on his uniform with a star. Operation Varsity (early 1945)

Response by CPO Keith Morgan made Nov 8 at 2017 11:31 AM

2017-11-08T11:31:07-05:00

Not since WWII

Response by SFC William Farrell made Nov 13 at 2017 1:12 AM

2017-11-13T01:12:25-05:00

When i fought in the big one, WWII SGT Private RallyPoint Member . Just kidding about fighting in the big one, I’m not that old! I did not know it existed past WWII.

Response by 1SG Bennett McCarthy made Nov 17 at 2017 12:25 AM

2017-11-17T00:25:36-05:00

Yes, in basic 1964 @ Ft Jackson 2 of the PSGs wore the glider patch and badge. BTW, they were PSG E-6.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Nov 20 at 2017 5:48 PM

2017-11-20T17:48:32-05:00

In order to stay on Jump Pay you had to Jump once every three months. Glider drops tended to be a mess. wrecked aircraft, equipment and injuries. Not something you would do for training. I guess it would be the equivalent of Air Assault

Response by PO2 Stephen Stasiowski made Dec 23 at 2017 4:16 PM

2017-12-23T16:16:48-05:00

No, not since WW2.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2017 7:19 PM

2017-12-27T19:19:26-05:00

Response by Raymond Pawlicki made Jan 11 at 2018 7:49 PM

2018-01-11T19:49:04-05:00

When I was a LT in Germany in 1973 one of my Warrant Officers had one,

Response by SGT George Duncan made Jan 12 at 2018 3:17 PM

2018-01-12T15:17:13-05:00

ONLY IN OLD MOVIES

Response by SPC David Willis made Jan 12 at 2018 4:26 PM

2018-01-12T16:26:18-05:00

Airborne founder- "Im gonna do something crazy like really crazy that the worlds never seen before. Itll be dangerous but really cool."

Glider founder- "Hold my beer Carl."

Response by TSgt Larry Johnson made Jan 14 at 2018 3:56 PM

2018-01-14T15:56:35-05:00

Yes, I know about that badge. My Uncle Jimmy was in the 17th AB, 193rd Glider Inf, Company A. Here is hi picture.

Response by SGT Russell Colburn made Jan 15 at 2018 1:28 AM

2018-01-15T01:28:24-05:00

Yes I have. It was about 20 years ago. At the VA Hospital in seattle there was a volunteer pushing patients around to their appointments. He was a WWII vet and proudly wore his.

Response by CW3 Lysle Seelig made Jan 16 at 2018 5:27 PM

2018-01-16T17:27:09-05:00

Yes, my JROTC instructor in high school, (LTC AF,) was a glider pilot in WWII.

Response by CPT Dennis Stevenson made Jan 17 at 2018 8:29 AM

2018-01-17T08:29:27-05:00

Yes. My first battalion commander, COL Charles G. Ives, had one. We were in Korea together in 1966-67.

Response by MGySgt Werner Willms made Jan 18 at 2018 7:16 PM

2018-01-18T19:16:21-05:00

Yes, in Vietnam. There was this old guy, Pappy Gray, who wore these "half wings". I ask him about them and he told me they were glider wings. I was impressed he survived. This was in 67 - 68 in Da Nang.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2018 2:42 PM

2018-01-20T14:42:19-05:00

Jacqueem, I have not. I can only say that I worked with a gentleman who served in the 17th Airborne Division during WWII and he related to me that during that war he made a glider assault landing. He is deceased now, but I feel fortunate that I knew him and was honored when he gave me one of his division patches. which I still have.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2018 4:22 PM

2018-01-21T16:22:15-05:00

Have yet yo see one, Seen 101 AB uniform patch.

Response by SPC Ken Curtner made Jan 21 at 2018 5:17 PM

2018-01-21T17:17:05-05:00

When I was in the 101st, troops that were Airborne(jump school grads) were authorized to wear the Glider patch on their soft hats.

Response by GySgt John O'Donnell made Jan 21 at 2018 8:21 PM

2018-01-21T20:21:15-05:00

As an Marine Airborne Pathfinder, I has been blessed to share time with a “Glider Badge” warrior from WWII airborne history, Mr. Tom Mallison of Paris, TX. He flew in hot on D-Day with a Jeep in his glider. Having heard his stories, jumping from a plane was a lot more safe the flying that glider.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2018 7:25 PM

2018-01-24T19:25:34-05:00

I have read that the old WWII era glider wings (with the G on the shield) is still currently awarded to Air Force Academy cadets who are glider pilots at that institution. I don’t believe they are worn after commissioning though. I have a set of my grandfathers, who was almost through flight school when WWII ended.

Response by SFC Edward Hall made Jan 27 at 2018 7:07 PM

2018-01-27T19:07:21-05:00

Having served from 1944-72, I saw plenty of them in the 1945-46 time frame

Response by SPC Mike Lake made Feb 4 at 2018 5:38 PM

2018-02-04T17:38:52-05:00

I haven't in service but some retired War vets

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2018 1:36 PM

2018-02-14T13:36:28-05:00

Yes I did and have, 1972. No real glider ride, but does a C-119 count? "Shake Rattle and Roll"

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 11:09 PM

2018-02-15T23:09:52-05:00

I joined the Army Reserve in 1980. We had a old tough Battalion CSM who joined the 82nd Airborne during the Korean War - but didn't go to Korea. He had Master Parachutist wings and a Glider Badge. He's is the only person I ever met with one. (I also met, on separate occasions, two paratroopers who jumped into Normandy - one from the 82nd and the other from the 101st. How cool is that?!)

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 15 at 2018 10:38 AM

2018-04-15T10:38:49-04:00

Yes on Honor Flights

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made May 16 at 2018 12:35 PM

2018-05-16T12:35:53-04:00

I have seen a WWII vet wearing the Glider Badge. Thank GOD we dont do that anymore!

Response by MAJ Haris Balcinovic made Jul 23 at 2018 2:49 PM

2018-07-23T14:49:44-04:00

It's not an award it's a badge. It is no longer issued (was WWII and post era badge, and it is considered a Group 4 badge along with parachutist and air assault), but it is in AR 670-1 for the surviving veterans who are authorized wear. But there may be just a handful of those bad-asses left

Response by SPC Charlie Robinson made Jul 23 at 2018 11:07 PM

2018-07-23T23:07:49-04:00

I had friends and relatives that died in wars. I don't like posers.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2019 12:56 PM

2019-06-01T12:56:25-04:00

The last glider school in the Army completed their training in the late 1940s.

Response by SGT Chris Nichols made Jun 3 at 2019 11:21 AM

2019-06-03T11:21:40-04:00

I did Navy and Army!
Do they even have gliders anymore?
I remember from history the ones in WW II

Response by MAJ Randy Chavis made Jun 3 at 2019 11:39 AM

2019-06-03T11:39:08-04:00

Response by CPT Byron Hueftle-Worley made Jun 3 at 2019 4:23 PM

2019-06-03T16:23:07-04:00

Yes, my uncle, who was a WW2 101st veteran. None were issued after WW2, I believe.

Response by Matthew Bolland made Jun 3 at 2019 4:34 PM

2019-06-03T16:34:58-04:00

removed.

Response by SGT Erik Ó Labhradha made Jun 3 at 2019 6:40 PM

2019-06-03T18:40:57-04:00

Is that fat guy mewherter?

Response by A1C Russ Lance made Jun 3 at 2019 7:10 PM

2019-06-03T19:10:20-04:00

never saw one and I served in the late 70's early 80's

Response by COL Teddy Bitner made Jun 3 at 2019 9:03 PM

2019-06-03T21:03:35-04:00

I knew two old warrant officers in the 1970s authorized to wear glider wings, WWII vets.

Response by Jeremy Meehan made Jun 3 at 2019 10:52 PM

2019-06-03T22:52:36-04:00

Great uncle Sam had one, earned it the hardway

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Jun 4 at 2019 10:56 AM

2019-06-04T10:56:42-04:00

While stationed in the 9th ID at Ft. Lewis, WA in 1986, we had an old bugger in our Long Range Surveillance Company who wore a pair. He wore a glider badge & jump wings. That glider badge often had AR-670-1 Nazis & new LTs taking fits. Almost 40 years after earning & the guy was still jumping. The guy had combat jump wings & had the 187th Airborne patch on his right sleeve from the Korean War. He missed WW-II but had been in Korea & Vietnam.

Response by SFC William Ewing made Jun 4 at 2019 11:15 AM

2019-06-04T11:15:05-04:00

Some 30 year men back when I joined
One was a career PFC back before up or out.
Worked in supply at Ft Knox. April 70.
First Sergeant also had one was a Ranger from DDay before you had to be airborne.
He was glider trained and two stars on it..

Response by PO1 Robert Kay made Jun 4 at 2019 2:35 PM

2019-06-04T14:35:12-04:00

From what little I know from my father, a WWII vet who landed on DDay+1 and earned a Bronz Star, the Glider Badge was given in June 1944 for glider troops during D-Day. As far as he could remember there was only a few thousand issued. Probably you will not find many alive today who remember them.

Response by LTC Gary Earls made Jun 4 at 2019 2:40 PM

2019-06-04T14:40:51-04:00

I had a battalion commander who wore one from his service in WW2.

Response by COL William Oseles made Jun 4 at 2019 4:00 PM

2019-06-04T16:00:32-04:00

WW II and phased out a LONG time ago

Response by SGT David Davison made Jun 4 at 2019 5:29 PM

2019-06-04T17:29:54-04:00

Glider patch on cuntcap after jump school 1968

Response by SPC Scott Domogalla made Jun 4 at 2019 5:54 PM

2019-06-04T17:54:31-04:00

If they are young and wearing one, they have low self esteem, no personal worth, fragile ego, no honor, and no integrity. Most of the ones I have seen, either have mental health issues, are lower IQ, or deeply want some pride. Most are not trying to get anything except recognition. I usually tell them I know they are fake and it is really disrespectful. Other than that I let it go.

Response by CPT Lawrence Stivers made Jun 4 at 2019 6:44 PM

2019-06-04T18:44:05-04:00

My high school JROTC instructor had it. He retired in ‘83.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2019 7:43 PM

2019-06-04T19:43:51-04:00

Meet a WW II/ Korean Soldier with one and 4 mustard stains on his ABN wings

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Jun 4 at 2019 8:00 PM

2019-06-04T20:00:51-04:00

Yes! I have seen this award being worn. Mg Eugene a sole, president of Georgia Military College, wore this badge. General Saleh was Lieutenant RDL Murphy's Battalion commander in the 3rd Infantry Division during World War II. General Saleh wrote his Medal of Honor citation. So if you see an 80 year old man wearing a glider badge you're not looking at a poser you're looking at the real deal.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 4 at 2019 10:52 PM

2019-06-04T22:52:56-04:00

The only people authorized to where the glider badge are World War II veterans of he glider infantry regiments.

Response by CW4 Jim Shelburn made Jun 5 at 2019 12:54 AM

2019-06-05T00:54:37-04:00

When I was in pre-flight at Ft. Wolters, TX. in 1966, there was a CW4 who served in WWII. He had Master Army Aviator Wings, Glider Pilot, and Balloonist Badge. He had more ribbons on his right side and most have on their left.

Response by SSG Matt Buck made Jun 5 at 2019 4:36 AM

2019-06-05T04:36:35-04:00

Yes. I was sitting on a bench waiting to meet the 1SG on my very first day in the National Guard in 1986. The old Soldier sitting next to me was on his last days in the military. He was getting forced out as he was about to reach his 60th Birthday. I took note of the skill badges on his uniform. I did not recognize one. I knew what Airborne and Air Assault bagels looked like. In my ignorance I asked him what it was. He told me in a gravelly voice that it was a glider badge. He had lied about his age, joined the Army at 16, got dropped into Normandy and Holland in a glider. He had 44 years of service and was downright pissed off that they were kicking him out.

Response by SFC Rob W. made Jun 5 at 2019 8:40 AM

2019-06-05T08:40:50-04:00

Yes, but they were all WW2 vets from the 82nd and 101st...

Response by CW5 Bailey McLemore made Jun 5 at 2019 8:47 AM

2019-06-05T08:47:29-04:00

Yes. My cousin John Rucker from Murfreesboro, Tennessee was an Army glider pilot in WW2. When the Army Air Corps split into the Air Force after the war, he became part of the Air Force Reserve as a JAG officer (he was a lawyer before the war). He eventually became a full Colonel in the reserves. Probably the only Air Force Colonel to wear a glider badge on his dress uniform.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2019 12:07 PM

2019-06-05T12:07:39-04:00

I remember going to an 82nd Airborne convention in, I think, 2001 prior to 9/11 and met a WWII Veteran with glider wings. Might still have the pic somewhere. That’s the only example I can think of. If you meet someone that’s not a WWII vet, I’d be very suspicious.

Response by CSM Thomas Diehl made Jun 5 at 2019 12:08 PM

2019-06-05T12:08:10-04:00

My Uncle Walt ... a glider pilot instructor during WWII.

Response by Cpl Ed Hines made Jun 5 at 2019 12:58 PM

2019-06-05T12:58:25-04:00

I've never seen one, personally except from old photos of service members during WW2. it was a unit of men typically assigned to that unit. Those who might wear it: officers/enlisted of those units and (informally) instructors who trained personnel to fly those aircraft.

Response by SGT David Nicholas made Jun 5 at 2019 3:27 PM

2019-06-05T15:27:22-04:00

My grandfather had one from WWII.

Response by GySgt William Perkins made Jun 5 at 2019 4:05 PM

2019-06-05T16:05:31-04:00

Jack Scalese a member of our VFW post has this badge.

Response by SFC Bill Kurtz made Jun 5 at 2019 5:05 PM

2019-06-05T17:05:57-04:00

Only ones I’d believe would be the WWII vets.

Response by CPL Chris Palmberg made Jun 5 at 2019 7:59 PM

2019-06-05T19:59:31-04:00

I have one, earned by my grandfather. If memory serves, the school was shut down in 1948, which means 71 years since the final award was presented.

Response by CPL William Lander made Jun 5 at 2019 8:54 PM

2019-06-05T20:54:59-04:00

Response by PO2 Troy Sanders made Jun 5 at 2019 9:19 PM

2019-06-05T21:19:29-04:00

Nope

Response by Sgt Rich Campin made Jun 5 at 2019 10:01 PM

2019-06-05T22:01:03-04:00

Response by SPC Ruben Marin made Jun 5 at 2019 11:30 PM

2019-06-05T23:30:12-04:00

I met someone once that was awarded this badge. I had to ask what it was bc I had never seen it or heard of it. Interesting badge. I didn't know they still gave them out. The person I met was a but older.

Response by MSgt Horace Smith made Jun 6 at 2019 2:53 AM

2019-06-06T02:53:54-04:00

I grew up next door to a 17th Airborne Division (194th Glider Infantry Regiment) Veteran of WW2. He was in Operation "Varsity Plunder", the assault across the Rhine and went in near the town of Wessel, Germany, by glider. I don't know if he had glider wings or not but he saw his share of combat. Sadly, he's no longer with us.

Response by SGT Mike Champ made Jun 6 at 2019 4:01 AM

2019-06-06T04:01:27-04:00

We had a Master Sergeant in 101st in 1978 , he was pretty old then.

Response by 1SG Randall Hinds made Jun 6 at 2019 5:32 AM

2019-06-06T05:32:26-04:00

Glider patch was worn on soldiers garrison cap to symbolize the Airborne status while in dress uniform. This patch went out when the Dress Greens went. Headgear was replaced by the berets.

Response by Maj Edw Stalker made Jun 6 at 2019 7:33 AM

2019-06-06T07:33:14-04:00

I’d suggest that there’s been 50 years or more since combat gliders were used. Basically, since helicopters replaced them.

Response by SR Don Drake made Jun 6 at 2019 1:13 PM

2019-06-06T13:13:44-04:00

My Dad went thru the last class in 49 and was assigned to C/504. I checked his photo albums and no a single guy was wearing it in any photos. It wasn’t generally accepted practice to wear it in the Parachute units.

Response by MSG Elton Maybury made Jun 6 at 2019 1:16 PM

2019-06-06T13:16:36-04:00

No,but it was issued to glider pilots of WW2

Response by 1LT Aaron Barr made Jun 6 at 2019 1:33 PM

2019-06-06T13:33:31-04:00

Seems like a great day to answer this; my neighbor George Kross was a WWII veteran. When he found out that I would be doing ROTC in college, he started talking to me about his own time in the service. He also had his old uniform on a tailor's dummy in his basement and offered to show it to me. When I was looking it over, I noticed what looked like a parachute badge but instead of a parachute, it had what looked like a head on view of a plane. I asked him what it was and he told me it was a Glider Badge. My response was to tell him he must've been crazy and he couldn't argue the point. He told me a good bit about his time serving in the 101st and gliding into Normandy, Market Garden, etc. Truly a great man!

Response by SGT Russell Colburn made Jun 6 at 2019 3:01 PM

2019-06-06T15:01:23-04:00

I have only seen 1 worn. In the mid 1980's I was at the VA Hospital in Seattle and a WWII Vet that worked there as a volunteer wore it. Don't know when they stopped issuing it but, the badge was
formally rescinded 3 May 1961. Those that earned it could continue to wear it.

Response by CPL Richard Pannell made Jun 6 at 2019 6:19 PM

2019-06-06T18:19:18-04:00

I think they had them in WWll

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made Jun 6 at 2019 8:21 PM

2019-06-06T20:21:37-04:00

A well deserved medal.So many service members have performed duties that are never to be spoken about.Where there should be medals,none will ever show up.Almost every platoon that served in a combat area,has some that went beyond what was expected of them. The glider pilots,being mostly volunteers are of that special breed. A big salute to all who took a chance.

Response by SFC Abel Candia made Jun 6 at 2019 8:48 PM

2019-06-06T20:48:44-04:00

The glider patch was the patch worn by airborne qualified personnel on their caps. If you are speaking of the glider badge, I believe it was awarded in WWII

Response by SGT Dan Wirtz made Jun 6 at 2019 8:48 PM

2019-06-06T20:48:57-04:00

My First Sergeant in Basic Training back in 1983 wore Glider wings and the Airborne Glider Patch on his Garrison Cap (C*** Cap) He was older than dirt and scary as hell, I think he might have been an SFC when Christ was a corporal in the Jewish Natn'l Guard. Pretty sure he had served in Korea, Vietnam and maybe even WWII.

Response by 1stSgt Sam Damewood made Jun 6 at 2019 9:24 PM

2019-06-06T21:24:35-04:00

Yepper, but he was a WWII guy.
I've met enlisted pilots too from back in the day and the last Warrant in the Air Force.
Guess I'm getting old too.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2019 11:01 PM

2019-06-06T23:01:25-04:00

Some great old guys in my 82nd ABN Association group.

Response by Lt Col Linda-Mike Matthews made Jun 7 at 2019 8:17 AM

2019-06-07T08:17:16-04:00

There was an older E5 Sergeant who shared the transit bunk next to mine at Tan Son Nhut AB, outisde of Saigon, back in 1966. He wore glider wings on his fatigue hat. Said he earned them in WWII. He looked old enough to have served in WWII...

Response by SSgt Dwight Crawford made Jun 7 at 2019 9:05 AM

2019-06-07T09:05:15-04:00

No, and probably and probably 1million

Response by SGT Bill Kohlmeyer made Jun 7 at 2019 12:46 PM

2019-06-07T12:46:01-04:00

SGM Sculy McCollough (sic) 1972. SGM 3rd Brigade 101st ABN (we were the only airborne brigade) when the rest of the division went air assault. When they started issuing air assault wings he broke out his WWII glider wings and stated wearing them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2019 12:57 PM

2019-06-07T12:57:19-04:00

I knew someone who had one, it was actually in his records. He was only a few years older than me.

He didn't wear it, mostly because he was not certain what he did to get it, and didn't think he should have it.

He had one of the unit admins pull it up to show me. Admin asked Top to look at it, and even he was puzzled as hell.

He's the only person I've ever known who had one in his records. Top said the same thing.

Otherwise, a legitimate award would be a very old soldier.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Jun 7 at 2019 1:02 PM

2019-06-07T13:02:56-04:00

I have heard of it and only seen one on a uniform for a 82nd Airborne Soldier.

Response by MG John McLaren made Jun 7 at 2019 1:08 PM

2019-06-07T13:08:36-04:00

In 1974 I saw a COL with one. He was months from retirement.

Response by PO2 Jack Moorehead made Jun 7 at 2019 2:54 PM

2019-06-07T14:54:18-04:00

I've seen one at a old man's home in the early 60s and remember it because I had seen jump wings and WW 2 army air force crew bad pilot wings. The old guy live in El Paso and had the all American 82ed airborne patch along with a bronze star with V and campaign medals and victory medal and a CIB. he said he rode a glider into Market Garden operation.

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Jun 7 at 2019 4:50 PM

2019-06-07T16:50:33-04:00

I had one when assigned to the 27th Airborne engineers in 1976, correction. I wore glider patch on my cap.

Response by SSgt John Bohn Sr. made Jun 7 at 2019 7:01 PM

2019-06-07T19:01:04-04:00

Yes. In Nam, and WW2. They were presented

Response by MSG Alison Klein made Jun 7 at 2019 8:52 PM

2019-06-07T20:52:30-04:00

Nope didn't know it even existed

Response by SGT Terry Plaster made Jun 7 at 2019 11:05 PM

2019-06-07T23:05:37-04:00

Response by Ken Snow made Jun 8 at 2019 12:44 AM

2019-06-08T00:44:18-04:00

My grandfather earned the Glider badge.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jun 8 at 2019 3:01 AM

2019-06-08T03:01:50-04:00

Shown here are WWII Glider Pilot Wings

Response by CSM Richard Montcalm made Jun 8 at 2019 8:47 AM

2019-06-08T08:47:12-04:00

yes! Our Property Book Officer in 1st Ranger Battalion in 1977, CW4 Ibarra, was awarded the glider badge.

Response by CPL John Kane made Jun 8 at 2019 11:54 AM

2019-06-08T11:54:12-04:00

Seen it a couple of times,at Campbell during Eagle week,when the WW 2 guys would come into the dfac to eat. Other than that no

Response by CDR Jim Strnad made Jun 8 at 2019 11:54 AM

2019-06-08T11:54:18-04:00

How about Navy Balloon Pilot Wings. They were official Navy issue way, way back.

Response by SSgt Lewis Hartswick made Jun 8 at 2019 12:04 PM

2019-06-08T12:04:32-04:00

There may be lots of Air force officers with them. It's taught at the academy . But we now refer to it as Soaring . :-)

Response by MAJ Karen Wall made Jun 8 at 2019 12:40 PM

2019-06-08T12:40:41-04:00

I have seen one in my lifetime- my dad. HE was a WACO CG4-A pilot and trainer in WWII. I still have his badges and patches. IF you look closely at the Airborne patch on the Class A cap, the aircraft superimposed on the parachute is a glider.

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made Jun 8 at 2019 3:54 PM

2019-06-08T15:54:04-04:00

I believe they quit awarding that badge shortly after World War II since that is the last time gliders were used. Anyone who earned it would be in their 80’s or older.

Response by SFC Burt Miller made Jun 8 at 2019 4:25 PM

2019-06-08T16:25:23-04:00

Yes. When I joined the U.S. Army Reserve, 425th Transportation Command (MT), in 1971, our commanding officer wore one. He had been a glider pilot on D-Day.

Response by CPT Patrick Dougherty made Jun 8 at 2019 7:48 PM

2019-06-08T19:48:28-04:00

Major Demille my Spanish instructor at Citadel was glider field artillery in WWII.
My brigade commander in the 101st had glider training as a WP cadet.
In 2004,while on a river cruise, in Portugal met a gentleman that was in the 80 AAA Bn in the 82nd. He rode a glider into Holland.

Response by LTC Charles "Pappy" Patchin made Jun 8 at 2019 9:29 PM

2019-06-08T21:29:30-04:00

I've see n a lot of them. And Paraglider badges, also. Not the cap badge, a glider superimposed on a parachute badge. But, the men wearing them had all served in World War Two. Last man I saw was CSM Stanley Kuzminski that had one. He is now DZ party in the sky.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2019 1:23 AM

2019-06-09T01:23:37-04:00

I have! Airborne AL, in the Fort Huachuca area. He was a member of the 11th Airborne Division in WWII. I met him while participating in the 2017 Veterans Day parade in Sierra Vista. Surprisingly, out of the other older veterans, he was the only one still able to walk on his own. The van pulled up and he hopped out of the back like it was nothing, looking sharp in his uniform.

That said, he had nothing but horrific things to say about the gliders and the fates he witnessed them meet. . .

Response by MSG Robert Ashton made Jun 9 at 2019 3:04 AM

2019-06-09T03:04:27-04:00

Yes, my airborne instructor in Germany wore a gliders badge.

Response by 1SG John Highfill made Jun 9 at 2019 7:41 AM

2019-06-09T07:41:17-04:00

Never seen one didn’t know you could still get one

Response by LTC Gary Earls made Jun 9 at 2019 11:49 AM

2019-06-09T11:49:28-04:00

A side story about gliders. My Army Reserve unit was activated for Desert Shield/Desert Storm. My aviation section was transformed into the range committee and after we had trained all of the troops that came to Fort Campbell. About April,1991 they got assigned to help remodel the Don Pratt Museum. One afternoon I stopped by to check on them. There is a glider in the Museum that you can walk into and see the interior. We needed to move it and the glider was already on a movable platform. It took twenty of us to move it to the new location. The staff didn't want to use mechanical equipment to move it because of the location so it was done the old fashion way. Manpower. :-) BTW my guys got the project ahead of schedule because of the guys was in the construction business. Saved the government money. :-)

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Jun 9 at 2019 11:56 AM

2019-06-09T11:56:15-04:00

I know at the Air Force academy the young troops are indoctrinated into flying on gliders. Are they awarded and badges for that accomplishment?? Would be the only way I could see this as even remotely legit

Response by LTC Mike Hughes made Jun 9 at 2019 1:43 PM

2019-06-09T13:43:31-04:00

One in 1974

Response by CPT Doug Hocking made Jun 9 at 2019 4:06 PM

2019-06-09T16:06:14-04:00

Yes, I've seen them but not for almost 50 years and those who had them were WWII veterans.

Response by MAJ Bradley Marchant made Jun 9 at 2019 4:09 PM

2019-06-09T16:09:38-04:00

WWII Glider Pilots wore wings with a G in the middle of a shield. My dad was one of them.

Response by SPC Eric McInteer made Jun 9 at 2019 4:30 PM

2019-06-09T16:30:05-04:00

That would be hilarious to see some 40-something wearing a glider badge!

Response by SGT Morris Jordan made Jun 9 at 2019 7:21 PM

2019-06-09T19:21:22-04:00

My father, 1LT Bernard "Pappy" Jordan, did not have this badge, but proudly wore his Glider Pilot wings. He was a pilot on gliders that carried personnel and equipment into Normandy, Holland, and Germany. When asked what the "G" on the wings stood for, he'd always reply, "GUTS!" No one contradicted him! He retired from the Air Force in 1965, and died in 1995.

Response by SFC George “Bones” Small made Jun 9 at 2019 9:36 PM

2019-06-09T21:36:02-04:00

I think I saw a few Glider Badges back in the late 60s, but I can’t be sure. It could well be I’m just getting my memory confused with having seen so many wearing khakis having the round Red&White Airborne/Air Mobile Glider Patch on their Cunt Caps back then.

Response by SSG Don Wilson made Jun 9 at 2019 10:44 PM

2019-06-09T22:44:10-04:00

Only on a WW2 vet.

Response by SP5 Joe Bierce made Jun 10 at 2019 1:08 AM

2019-06-10T01:08:47-04:00

not since 1940's.

Response by LTC Joseph George made Jun 10 at 2019 9:26 AM

2019-06-10T09:26:47-04:00

WWII Veterans only, gliders became extinct after WWII. The US Army converted its remaining glider units to parachute and ceased awarding the Glider Badge in 1949.

Response by SPC Darryl Weeden made Jun 10 at 2019 10:21 AM

2019-06-10T10:21:00-04:00

Having served in the 101st Airborne 2/187 Rakkasans back in the 90s and went to a couple of the reunions at the museum on base I had the honor of meeting a few of the veterans of the unit from WWII that had them.

Response by MSgt Raymond Morgan made Jun 10 at 2019 11:11 AM

2019-06-10T11:11:48-04:00

No.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2019 11:17 AM

2019-06-10T11:17:53-04:00

Anyone other than a older veteran? Meaning WW2, not Panama.

My uncle, who kept his Class A’s with DD214 ready to go because he might get called back after thirty something years, after retiring in the 1960’s!

Response by SGM Robert Mullikin made Jun 10 at 2019 11:28 AM

2019-06-10T11:28:45-04:00

Gliders were last used in WWII - part of the D-Day Assault!

Response by MAJ Tim Cunningham made Jun 10 at 2019 4:37 PM

2019-06-10T16:37:12-04:00

We used to wear the glider patch on our overseas caps at the 101st Airborne Division. This obviously was before the beret became the replacement cap. But I've never seen anyone with a glider badge.

Response by SFC David Sanson made Jun 10 at 2019 5:11 PM

2019-06-10T17:11:02-04:00

I know a soldier who had one. Neatest veteran Ive ever met. WWII Veteran and was a Glider pilot. So sad when he passed away years ago.

Response by SSG Kyle Stromgren made Jun 10 at 2019 10:00 PM

2019-06-10T22:00:20-04:00

I saw one on a 90 plus years old he was a glider troop in WW2 said that they didn't get the extra pay that jumpers got. it was on his hat and had a tee shirt that said something about gliders

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2019 11:28 PM

2019-06-10T23:28:17-04:00

I think the Civil Air Patrol might have a Glider badge, Not 100% certain but I know that they do some glider training

Response by SFC Freddie Porter made Jun 11 at 2019 12:32 PM

2019-06-11T12:32:06-04:00

So, I’m wondering (after several correct answers), if a soldier going through jump school in 72 and awarded both jump wings and the glider patch (not a pin on metallic) device, is authorized to wear the glider patch on the new service headgear. There are still a few soldiers out there from that era.

Response by SPC Matt Johnson made Jun 11 at 2019 12:33 PM

2019-06-11T12:33:55-04:00

My great uncle was in a glider unit with the 101st during ww2. I was stationed at ft Bragg. I’m 99.9% certain they did away with glider units after ww2 because they were flying coffins held together with tent poles and vinyl like tarps

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2019 3:12 PM

2019-06-11T15:12:11-04:00

Yes my warrant back in the 82nd ABN Div had Glider wings.

Response by SGT Andy Bender made Jun 11 at 2019 3:37 PM

2019-06-11T15:37:22-04:00

Not since WW2

Response by SGT Marty Riggs made Jun 11 at 2019 6:07 PM

2019-06-11T18:07:35-04:00

My Dad had a Glider Badge. I have it now in his keepsake box.
He was in the 82nd.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2019 6:55 PM

2019-06-11T18:55:01-04:00

I came in, in 1980. There was a guy in my unit from the 82nd, he whore it on the overseas cap.

Response by MSgt William Germain Jr made Jun 11 at 2019 7:27 PM

2019-06-11T19:27:17-04:00

I thought it was from the military academy

Response by SSG Bruce Meshberg made Jun 11 at 2019 10:58 PM

2019-06-11T22:58:58-04:00

I met a man with a Glider Badge at the 82 museum in the early 1980s and he was fairly old then. Great old glider rider, I wish I could remember his name.

Response by SSG Ricardo Escobedo made Jun 12 at 2019 1:11 AM

2019-06-12T01:11:50-04:00

The only glider badges I've ever seen, were worn by Veterans of the D-Day invasion who flew in behind enemy lines in those things that had the aerodynamics of a falling rock. As far as I know, no one in this day and age is entitled to wear one of those.

Response by 1SG Phillip Newton made Jun 12 at 2019 3:20 AM

2019-06-12T03:20:45-04:00

Who the hell knows what he’s pining on that soldier? He pining something onto his lapel, but I can’t see it and non of you can either. Two of the others have something gold pinned to their lapels, but I have no idea of what it is. What’s the background to this story?

Response by CPL Chris Wellington made Jun 12 at 2019 8:32 AM

2019-06-12T08:32:49-04:00

I have seen the glider badge on a uniform once. My Grandfather's. He was in WW2 and had the badge on the only picture of him in uniform I had seen. I asked him about it once and he really didn't reply. I wish I could have had the presence of mind when I was younger to ask again before he passed away.

Response by COL Ed Gibson made Jun 12 at 2019 7:03 PM

2019-06-12T19:03:08-04:00

I am now 93 years old and for the past 25 years running a free transition service for Military Engineers

Response by 1LT Johnsey Cabaniss made Jun 13 at 2019 10:57 AM

2019-06-13T10:57:27-04:00

Yes, the father of one of the troopers in my jump class (1971) retired Army showed up in greens to pin his son's wings on him. He was wearing a Glider Badge. I think I was one of the few that recognized it because my Dad was a WWII paratrooper.

Response by SSgt Jim Fergerson made Jun 13 at 2019 2:39 PM

2019-06-13T14:39:40-04:00

I Have Never Seen One But They Did Exist In WW2 Before They Combined The Glider And Airborne Patches In To One. Watch Saving Private Ryan When They Are Having The Conversation With The Glider Pilot I Believe He Is Wearing One

Response by SGT Eric Dziekan made Jun 13 at 2019 5:54 PM

2019-06-13T17:54:58-04:00

My great uncle served in L Co. 325th Glider Infantry, 82nd Abn DIV, Ardennes, Mortar Section, so yes, this is very real and he was Damn proud of his wings too!

Obsolete for most younger troops to understand unless they knew someone prior or researched actual history.

Response by CPT Rob Scroggins made Jun 14 at 2019 8:16 AM

2019-06-14T08:16:06-04:00

My grandfather had a glider badge from WWII

Response by 1SG Michael Bulkley made Jun 14 at 2019 1:58 PM

2019-06-14T13:58:20-04:00

Don't see the badge being worn by anyone in this photo?

Response by LTC Christopher Hills made Jun 14 at 2019 10:32 PM

2019-06-14T22:32:08-04:00

I worked with a DA civilian in the finance office at Ft Bragg who had been awarded the glider badge. He graduated airborne school the summer’49 and was told that they were holding the last glider class. Anyone in his class that wanted to stay and take the course would be awarded the last glider wings so he did... and wore them on his uniform till he retired. He had it in his shadow box on the wall of his office. The original “double stack” for those of us with airborne and air assault.

Response by SSgt Brian Yearicks made Jun 15 at 2019 12:59 PM

2019-06-15T12:59:49-04:00

For what it’s worth, the USAFA issues them. (See below)

Flying Team Wings: Approved in October 2012, these wings are worn by members of the Flying Team, a select group of cadets who were selected after arriving at the Air Force Academy with a Private Pilot’s license. A star and wreath are added as cadets progress through the soaring program.

Cadet Flight Wings: Flight wings with star are worn by cadets who have soloed a USAFA glider or a powered aircraft. Wings without star are worn by cadets who have completed at least 10 flights in a USAFA glider but have not soloed.

Response by PO2 Robert Sweetsir made Jun 15 at 2019 1:22 PM

2019-06-15T13:22:37-04:00

Another very rare medal that posers wear are the service medals for non-combat heroism they are so rare and posers wear them all the time. The only person I know who had one was JFK for saving his crew on PT-109.

Response by MSgt Sandra McKinney Dent made Jun 15 at 2019 7:56 PM

2019-06-15T19:56:36-04:00

Yes, I've met a few of the HEROES from D-Day that earned the "Glider Badge"

There is also a "glider Pilot" badge for USAFA and ROTC Cadets, they earn it as part of the program to select pilots. NEVER WORN on the USAF (or other service branch) uniform, only while in Cadet Status.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2019 9:45 AM

2019-06-16T09:45:58-04:00

I had one in 1972 when I was asigned to 101st Abn 3/187th.

Response by SGM Robert King made Jun 16 at 2019 7:40 PM

2019-06-16T19:40:03-04:00

My CSM many years back had glider wings. He was a Korean War vet. He retired from the Army National Guard with 42 years and of service.

Response by SP6 Tony Hartwig made Jun 17 at 2019 7:51 AM

2019-06-17T07:51:20-04:00

Yes. My uncle, he got one about late 40's. They really only gave very few of them. It was shut down about 1960.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2019 11:03 AM

2019-06-25T11:03:38-04:00

A docent named Jim at the Udvar-Hazy Center (the Smithsonian's Air 7 Space Museum Annex in Northern Virginia) wears one to honor his late father who "flew"/crash-landed a glider at Normandy during the D-Day landings. That's as close as I have come to seeing one who actually earned it wearing it.

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made Aug 4 at 2019 3:52 PM

2019-08-04T15:52:00-04:00

I know the discussion is badges. I seem to remember troops wearing the glider patch during my time in the late 60s.

Response by PO2 Steve Bateman made Sep 3 at 2019 9:37 PM

2019-09-03T21:37:06-04:00

My Dad (RIP) was in the Glider troops (WW II). I have his badge and patch (gold unicorn)

Response by SPC Kenneth Machado made Dec 17 at 2019 4:10 PM

2019-12-17T16:10:16-05:00

My gramps had one from D-day. Did they issue them after the war?

Response by SFC Bruce Mcglasson made Dec 18 at 2019 12:12 AM

2019-12-18T00:12:44-05:00

Yep my father. A WWll veteran of 101st airborne

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 10 at 2020 3:06 AM

2020-05-10T03:06:33-04:00

I met a few WWII vets from the 82nd ABN DIV who had the badge, they were retired. I met them at a 82nd ABN DIV convention.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2020 8:26 PM

2020-06-29T20:26:00-04:00

WW2 renacters aside. Having been stationed at ft Campbell when band of brothers came out and Ft Bragg well ever I gave meet several WW2 Veterans who were glider certified.

Response by MSG David Clifford made Jun 30 at 2020 1:02 PM

2020-06-30T13:02:24-04:00

Yes. On the lapel of a jacket. It was a gentleman I was driving to an Honor Flight. He was in the Glider Corps stationed in England during WWII. Some friends of his wrote a book called “On Silent Wings” I believe was the title. Quite an interesting read, and an amazing gentleman.

Response by SGT Edward Skaggs made Jul 1 at 2020 11:43 AM

2020-07-01T11:43:59-04:00

Airborne Glider trooper

Response by CPT Robert Holden made Jul 1 at 2020 11:06 PM

2020-07-01T23:06:02-04:00

Never even heard of a glider badge . Didn’t know we had used gliders since WWII

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made Jul 1 at 2020 11:38 PM

2020-07-01T23:38:40-04:00

No I haven’t

Response by CPT Robert Holden made Jul 4 at 2020 10:09 PM

2020-07-04T22:09:04-04:00

Doubt anyone gets issued the award since the army hasn’t used gliders in over 50 years

Response by CSM Pt Valdez made Jul 6 at 2020 7:21 AM

2020-07-06T07:21:25-04:00

When I was a young private stationed at Ft Lewis we had a an crusty Col that wore them.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2020 11:42 AM

2020-07-06T11:42:39-04:00

Yes. We had a maintenance warrant that wore the glider badge. Earned it as a member of the 82nd Airborne.

Response by SPC Leon Roberts made Jul 6 at 2020 1:49 PM

2020-07-06T13:49:20-04:00

No comments

Response by LTC Mike Hughes made Jul 6 at 2020 3:46 PM

2020-07-06T15:46:50-04:00

Worked with a SGM in 1974 who had one

Response by SSG Edward Geer made Jul 6 at 2020 4:09 PM

2020-07-06T16:09:44-04:00

I have. My father earned it while assigned to the 11th Airborne Div. during the Occupation of Japan (45-47).

Response by SFC John Judd made Jul 6 at 2020 11:00 PM

2020-07-06T23:00:34-04:00

My dad was glider qualified. Served in the 82nd, he later earned the S identifier ( the SF Tab didnt exist then) and he was a Master Parachutist.

Response by MAJ John Vertido made Jul 6 at 2020 11:45 PM

2020-07-06T23:45:35-04:00

Yup, I saw them for sale in the AAFES clothing sales store. Never saw anyone wearing one.

Response by Sgt William Evans made Jul 6 at 2020 11:53 PM

2020-07-06T23:53:16-04:00

My name sake uncle was a glider pilot killed during the Italian campaign

Response by PO1 Christopher Keeler made Jul 7 at 2020 9:53 AM

2020-07-07T09:53:02-04:00

Its an WW2 qualification and was discontinued and done away with either directly after WW2 of during the Korean War. No one serving today would ever be awarded that badge.

Response by SGT Robert Hooker made Jul 7 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-07-07T21:37:14-04:00

WWII veteran years ago!

Response by CPO Ronald Smore made Jul 7 at 2020 11:29 PM

2020-07-07T23:29:04-04:00

In 1960, we had a CEC officer who had been o glider pilot in WWII. He had converted from the Army after the war

Response by SPC Heidi Kutney made Jul 8 at 2020 7:47 AM

2020-07-08T07:47:40-04:00

Knew it existed - have never met anyone who actually earned it

Response by SGT Brian Daniels made Aug 3 at 2020 7:28 AM

2020-08-03T07:28:48-04:00

Only at the VFW.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Sep 8 at 2020 3:27 PM

2020-09-08T15:27:34-04:00

That badge was discontinue in 1961. I don't believe there are any other SM's still in service who would have been awarded it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2020 5:22 PM

2020-09-08T17:22:54-04:00

My grandfather. WWII, Korea, Vietnam. Retired in 72 as CW4. Wings earned in '46. Stayed with the Army when given the choice when the Air Corps broke off into the USAF. When he passed, his awards were separated among the grandchildren. Me being the eldest I took the wings as my first choice.

Response by SSG Ted Strachan made Jan 11 at 2021 10:52 AM

2021-01-11T10:52:20-05:00

It became obsolete in 1961.

Response by SFC Chuck Martinez made May 6 at 2021 4:29 PM

2021-05-06T16:29:49-04:00

Never!

Response by SSG John Jensen made May 6 at 2021 7:11 PM

2021-05-06T19:11:02-04:00

while working at Cp Roberts in the summer of '89 - an old guardsman on the last year before his retirement - his 1st year in the Army was the last year of the gliders.

Rod Serling, the host of the 'Twilight Zone' 11 th Airborne - Philippines

Response by CPT Andrew Wright made May 7 at 2021 11:03 AM

2021-05-07T11:03:51-04:00

In almost thirty years of military service I have only seen one soldier with the Glider Badge. In 1981 I served in a Texas National Guard unit (3d Sqdn, 163d Cav) at Arlington, Texas. We had a very old SFC who wore the Glider Badge from back in the 1950s. His last name was Campbell and he was also a Tarrant County Deputy Sheriff.

Response by LTC Ray Buenteo made Mar 13 at 2022 12:04 PM

2022-03-13T12:04:58-04:00

Yeah. I met a WWII vet who went into Normandy in a glider. he had the badge. I think he was 82nd AB

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Mar 13 at 2022 5:46 PM

2022-03-13T17:46:52-04:00

Not lately but I have seems few WWII era guys with them

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Mar 13 at 2022 7:54 PM

2022-03-13T19:54:31-04:00

Yes I have seen a soldier wearing a Glider Badge. After returning from Vietnam in 1970 I was stationed at Ft. hood Texas. My squad leader Staff Sgt Schuler had a Glider Badge. I was 19 and he was in his 40's He told us all about it. He was a good old boy.

Response by LTC Philip DeCara made Apr 10 at 2022 6:30 PM

2022-04-10T18:30:47-04:00

YES MY FATHER, WWII VET , RETIRED COMMAND Sargent Major

Response by SMSgt John Stein made May 1 at 2022 2:51 PM

2022-05-01T14:51:52-04:00

I've seen a lot of Air Force Academy Graduates have them.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2022 12:44 PM

2022-05-23T12:44:33-04:00

In 1988 crusty old E8 in my first National Guard unit wore them. He had qualified for them in the early 50s. I remember he had attended the last Glider Assault qualification course the Army conducted. He also commented that I was the only lieutenant who had recognized the badge in "about 20 years".

Response by PO2 Lawrence Moody made Jun 2 at 2022 6:25 PM

2022-06-02T18:25:29-04:00

Never seen one, however I should get an honorary one for gliding through my time.

Response by SSgt Rick Scharnberg made Oct 6 at 2022 3:50 PM

2022-10-06T15:50:47-04:00

I am an Air Force Brat. When I was a kid, I met an officer that had Glider Pilot wings.