Hauptmann

I happened to find the shot from the documentary of what I believe is this optic in use. Sorry for the quality but it was taken by my digital camera straight off the television.

Now I'm hoping perhaps this is one that has not been posted here before and is not all that common. I'm hoping I get comments and perhaps even some info, some pics of it in use on the gun, etc. Wouldn't even be shy about offers... cause I've no idea what any of this is worth, especially this... but there's not a chance of me selling it for all the money in the universe!

Cause to me... all of this is absolutely priceless, cream of the crop!

And why, you ask is all this stuff... obviously not in the greatest of shape... worth so much... why is it so important to me? Why would I turn down any and all offers?

Because of this man:

John (Jack) Mowbray Burns Jr. My uncle... my mom's brother. One of several relatives Kim and I have between us who have served in every conflict from the Revolution on up. And we suspect some on the German side as well as we both have relatives over there although we sadly don't know who they are... yet! Yet another hobby of mine... genealogy.

From what I can tell from his uniform insignia and patches here's what I know... please feel free to correct me on any of this as I'm not an expert on U.S. and am depending on my references here:

17th Infantry Division "Thunder From Heaven". The Division participated in the Rhine Crossing in WWII.

So seems he was in the airborne... at least by the patch on his shoulder.

Both my mom's brothers served... my uncle George (George Donald Burns) who started out in the infantry and then transferred and became a cook... and a darned good one. I can assure you any of the troops who had him as their cook ate every well indeed.

Neither of them ever spoke much about the war. Jack had told his mom... my grandmom of course, who later told me, that during the war... in the middle of the Bulge (yes, that's right... he was in the Battle of the Bulge), they were bringing in vehicles filled with the wounded in order to get them fixed up and get them moving again. As he'd work under the trucks blood would drip down on him through the floor boards. He had nightmares about that I'm sure.

As part of his duties he drove a wrecker and would go out in the field to retreive wrecked or damaged vehicles for repair or use for parts. On a few of these excursions he did some souvenir hunting (why he didn't go for something rare like Hitler's toothbrush I'll never know) and as he had the tools and the know how he managed to retrieve this set of optics from an 88mm as well as a German tank.

A few months before he passed on... and knowing he had cancer and only had so much time left he suddenly opened up to me, my wife and my mom one day when we were down visiting him in Perry Florida. He brought out his photo album which chronicled his military time from training on till the end of the war and his return home.

He had pictures of the 88 and the tank he removed these optics from. There may have even been some from when he retrieved the daggers although I don't remember as I was too mesmerized by his tales from those days.

Sadly I did not have a tape deck with me... but oh how I wish I had.

Also, sadly, he kept the tank optic as they were moving to a lake and he wanted to use it to see across the water. He also kept the album... but he told me both would be left to me when he passed on. I said sadly because my aunt... never close to any of us, never passed these along to me and has dropped off the radar. We've tried to contact her with no success.

Lord knows they probably ended up in a Goodwill or a dumpster. Priceless family history gone, but never forgotten.

But I'm extremely thankful for what I have... and mindful of the sacrifices he and so many others made in order to do what they did and for me to be around to talk about it in this wonderful free country of ours.

So to all those fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, husbands and wives who served and the many who gave their all... I say a very humble thank you! That comes from the bottom of my heart. I'm proud of each and every one of you as I know all of you here are.

I only wish I could still talk with George and Jack. I only wish they'd opened up sooner... George never did. I wish they'd left more of their memories and experiences.

But I'm ever so proud of what they did and glad that they made it back to tell the tale.

I miss you both so much and hope you know how much I and we all appreciate everything you and your generation did, for us and for the world.

May you both rest in peace. This ones for you!

Dan

Okay... so perhaps some of you are getting a little bored... when's the good stuff coming. Well, I hope this is a bit of a pick me up. I've never seen another although I've seen alot of optics. It also took me forever and a day to find a photo that showed this in place.

They're the optics from a German 88mm Flak / Field Gun. And yes, they still work just fine... all I need is the 88mm... anybody got one for cheap?

Again nothing special... to anyone else. Common SA... not in the greatest shape. But I'd not take anything offered to me in exchange for it, ever. To me, it's priceless!

Okay, how about another dagger... this time an SA:

Now, if this was like in pristine mint condition, or had belonged to some famous individual then it might be something to write home about. As is, in this condition it probably wouldn't excite too many dagger collectors and most would likely pass it by.

But again, I simply would take no offers no matter how large. Offer me gold, platinum, precious gems... no way!

Okay... let's move on to some of the things this individual brought back... this may excite some folks a little more... some of the things more than others.

first off... an Army dagger:

Hi all,

I'm gonna kind of work my way into this one.

First off... something most would probably not give a second thought if they saw it out for sale somewhere.

Common as dirt as far as I know. Nothing fancy. Shoot, I've seen folks on Ebay try to sell them as IC's.

But to me it's important and I would not sell it for love or money.

Here's a bit more:

Again, as far as I know, common as dirt Tech. Sgt. Stripes... right? Again, I'd never sell them... wouldn't even trade them for a Roll's Royce... even though that would be an awful strong temptation. And as you'll see later... these represented a promotion for the individual concerned.

Okay... nudge, nudge! Someone must have something to say... comment to make... shoot, anything at all! Please folks... feel free via whatever method. I'm not gonna die if someone has a problem and certainly not if it's okay and someone likes it. I live for that!

Just cause I has a beard... to quote George Carlin "Don't be scared... it's just a beard!"

Thanks,

Dan

Come on... somebody, anybody... I'm lonesome and bored... and she can't be that bad! Say something or I might begin to get a complex!

Seriously, would love to hear from any or all by any means possible. At least I think she's perty! Hope someone else does.

Thanks,

Dan

Come on folks... someone must have some opinions, info, pricing, etc. they can pass on.

Really am on the verge of wanting to let this one go but want to give the correct info to any potential buyers as well as a "proper" price for it.

Any help is most welcome either here or via PM or email. Feel free any or all.

Thanks,

Dan

Hi Dan,

Don't know if you are a member of WAF, but there's a fellow there called "Olg Flag's Wanted" who knows everything about these guys ....

Hi Darrell,

No, I'm not. I may go over and join at some point but right now I'm kind of taking the day and relaxing and not sure I want to do any sign up work right now. Those things always drive me up the wall!

But I will definitely keep it in mind to go over and let him have a crack at it and see what he can tell me as I'd love to know more.

Many thanks for the heads up!

Dan

Not a clue what it's worth or any other info about it so hoping some of ya'll will be able to fill me in a bit.

Thanks,

Dan

Hi all,

Here is something I received as a gift from a very close friend well over twenty years ago. Yes, yes, I know... twenty years... the magical number with me! But seriously that's when I did alot of my TR shopping.

Anyhow just thought I'd pop it on and let ya'll take a peek. No idea why she picked this particular thing... other than it was big and shiney and well, TR... she hadn't a clue about militaria much less TR but hey, as gifts go I don't think this one is too shabby.

Hi all,

Okay, I'm considering letting this old girl go in order to boost me ahead in my quest to purchase a copy of Paul McDaniel's Soviet Orders & Medals reference. Been waiting patiently... well, sometimes, since it was originally published... been seriously waiting since October when I sold some TR stuff to do it... got sucked up in household, etc., and now I'm really, seriously tired of waiting.

UPDATE: Well, she's been a good friend all these years but now she's going to be heading to a new home. I love her but time to let someone else enjoy her company.

Have had this forever and a day... well over twenty years. Never collected SA per se, just liked the design of the buckle. But did a google search a couple days ago and looks like the prices are up there where it may do me more good finding a new home.

And since I never specialized... I saw on the google search one referred to as an early type 1... looked identical to mine except had some kind of tarnish spots all over the front whereas mine seems to be a fairly clean, crisp example.

So... if some of you Gentlemen would be so kind as to take a quick peek, give your opinions and any info you think might help and especially if you could give me a fairly good idea of what to charge? I want to charge a fair price but can use all I can get out of it if I sell.

And even though I sort of having a friend who hangs in the background drooling and wanting my stuff... if there is anyone here who is intro'd please let me know and perhaps we can work something out.

Hope to hear back something soon if possible as I'm now having dreams of "the book" and if I don't get it soon I think I'll end up in the funny farm!

Many, many thanks!

Dan

Typical "Hollywood." You'd think with a real person they could at least have made the attempt at effort to actually give the character what the real officer had.

Hi Rick,

Well, that was going to be my next question but my brain gave out last night. Any idea what the original Captain would have worn, etc?

And yes, I kinda figured this was the situation as when I looked it was like... this makes little sense to me... but always good to hear from the "experts". I am but the learner... you are the masters!

And hey, catch the movie... it's decent enough. Although I understand where you're coming from. It's like the old war movies and even Combat! which I love... those hugh German breast eagles, mix matches between Heer and SS insignia, etc... drives me up the wall. Tons of little stuff that no one else in the audience picks up on and doesn't think is a big deal.

Kim jokes that if I see a new war movie and they get so much as one badge wrong it spoils the whole movie for me. But ticks me off that they spend a ton of money, even have advisors who "should" know better and they still screw up.

Was watching some show or movie on cable where this scientist had gone back in time and was advising the nazi's on how to make their super weapons. This other guy goes back to stop him. Things were not "too" bad until they came driving up in their VW Thing! I mean they should have left it yellow or orange with peace sign hanging off the rear view mirror! No attempt to get a Kubel or anything. I could have done better on a buck ninety eight on a really bad day! How come they can't hire us and pay us really good money to advise on these things? They say they want accuracy and then they serve up this garbage. Even when the story is half way decent the inaccuracy spoils it. Granted... mostly for folks like us but then again, we're part of the audience too!

Oh well.

Gotta go try to "officially" wake up and get the day moving. But will be on (knock on wood) most of the day.

Thanks,

Dan

Mucho thanks!

Dan

Hi all,

Hope this is okay here... didn't know where else to put it. Been driving me crazy for ages. Anyone who has seen the movie K-19 The Widowmaker with Harrison Ford... on his dress blue uniform... number one, can anyone ID the sub badge (not the sub commander badge) he's wearing? And is that a standard academy badge? Also how about a full list of his medals, etc.

I was only able to find three pics that show these. But if anyone else happens to have it on DVD and could check and let me know I'd deeply appreciate. Also do his awards make sense?

And if anyone could provide better pics showing the medals, ribbon bar and badges to better effect please do.

Anyhow here are the pics:

Hoping someone can provide this info. I know some of the medals but want confirmation of all of them if anyone has it on disk and can see them all clear enough as well as that sub pin.

Thanks,

Dan

Dan ,

You have a very nice piece there, I also think the original ribbon should be put back on it. Somehow, an older one like that does not look right with a mint ribbon. I once asked someone in jest if there was a 12 step program for militaria addiction. If there was I would refer you.

Dan Murphy

Hi Dan,

I'll take that as high praise! :-) You name it I've grabbed it. I'm a... "Hey, I like that... oh it's cheap too... I'll grab it." kind of a guy. I'd just be far, far too bored being a specialist. I'm the same with all my hobbies which are many... at least my wife thinks so. Hey, keeps me off the streets... at least when I'm not metal detecting near them.

If nothing else I may just find an older piece of ribbon in better shape and put on it. The original was just falling apart. Be afraid to use it and do yet more damage. Shame of it is that I just got a very kind donation of one from Tom Young along with an Italian button he was giving away. He sent the ribbon so I could finally provide one for an WWI IC 2nd that our museum has on display. The IC was a donation from a local WWI vet and his family many, many moons ago... but sadly it had no ribbon. So now it will. I used to have spares but most of my extra ribbon stock went out years ago. Didn't want to let them go... long story but it had to happen. I actually need to build back up. I have several KC ribbons along with a good deal of Eastern Front and Luftschutz left along with a few odds and ends.

But definitely, once I get another one I'd be happy to pop it on. She is a very nice piece and I agree that she'll display much nicer with an original ribbon.

Thanks,

Dan

Hey guys... you have all warmed my heart and set my mind at ease.

I just can't say enough how grateful I am to you all for confirming what I always felt in my heart but needed sooooo badly to hear.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

Dan

I think it's really a shame that a very scarce and interesting book has been trashed here. Bummer.

Hey, not that I particularly want to break down and sob at the moment, although it's been that kind of month in some ways... what "would" it have been worth had it not been "screwed" with? Again I don't think I have alot in it... perhaps $5 or something rediculously low like that. Just hope we're not talking about something that might have been a $100 item here!

Thanks,

Dan

Hi all,

First off, Stogieman, no problem at all! Glad I could at least get the ball rolling. And again, it looks the same as the one in my book too... not sure what differenciates the 30's from the 50's version. Probably something simple and obvious but with the day I've had work wise with both jobs I'm probably lucky I can remember how to post right now!

But also I did not know there were later versions and at least I have an idea on price now.

But I definitely agree... for as much as a comparative newbie as I am in some aspects of all this... looks good to me too! Lets just say I'd love to have it myself.

Ya did good methinks!

Dan

Hi Dan,

It was not my intention to suggest that you would do anything dishonest. Do dont strike me as that type of person. I am just stating my opinion in regards to collecting. I like to preserve things the way they are. You are correct when you mention "shades" of collectors. I am more on the "purist" side.

Regards

Paul

Hi Paul,

Oh, as I said I know that no one intended it that way. Believe me, coming from the trenches of TR and Imperial German I know the frustrations all too well.

See, in some things, like that small Chernobyl group I tend more towards the "purist" way. In others... like my getting the occassional copy of an item that is too costly for my budget or simply impossible for me to ever obtain, and doing it by buying it at an extremely reasonable price, as a copy for a space filler representative example I don't see any harm. And I make sure they are labeled as such and both my wife and son have been brought along to know that I do not want these put back out, if at all, as anything other than exactly what they are... no more, no less. I'd rather see them buried with me... hey, now there's a thought! I could indeed take it with me!

But I'm totally against pirates out to defraud in any way, shape or form. And of course the best defense against that is to join terrific groups like this, study every reference possible, beg, borrow or whatever, see every legit and even every fake example possible and learn the difference and just use common sense in ones everyday dealings, be it on Ebay or at a shop or show or whatever. It's also important for newbies not to get star struck like kids in a candy shop and think "I'll never find one of these things again... gotta buy it now." and then find out they overspent on one of the most common things to come down the road that year.

They also have to learn not to buy into stories... "Oh my great grandfather brought it back from the war where he was the guy to capture the Kaiser's dog." or whatever other whoey is being spouted out by a seller.

I've read this same reasoning spelled out in I can't count how many references. Know who you're dealing with, etc, etc, over and over again. Sadly, some folks just don't listen. Sigh.

But no, everything is cool and I took it all in the right way.

Again I'd love to do something with these bars... either as suggested put on all the Anniversary medals or something... but something so I can display them in a better way. But I'm not going to jump on any one thing without thinking it through and listening to any and all advice.

Now, I am in conversation with someone... who suggested something so thought I'd throw it out there.

Here's his quote:

"The fact that one of jubilee medal ribbons is missing does not mean that the bar is a restrike. Many war veterans got in

jail after the war (actually thousands of them) and no wonder some of them missed 1948 awarding. Your forum counterpart

lives in a perfect world and does not accept any exclusions from the rule. Lenin jubilee medal on a regular five sided bar

was not that uncommon when it was hanging on a long bar. WWII veterans who left the army after the war were still

receiving anniversary medals and could wear them any way they wanted and mounted their Lenins next to miliary and

anniversary medals. Only men on active duty were subject to guidelines regulating wear of their awards."

I've also invited him to come register and join us and put forth his views and see what happens. We're all here to learn from one another and if he has a valid point then he should have the opportunity to share it. If it's incorrect for whatever reason then he should by the same token come and learn why.

No idea if he'll come or not but I do hope he will.

Anyhow I'd love to hear opinions on his comments as stated above. It's just like my Chernobyl group... would that be a possible explanation for him not receiving the 30th Ann. medal?

In any event looking forward to hearing what everyone has to say. Either way, I've got to say this set of three bars has been worth it just to have such a good exchange of thoughts, ideas and opinions and that my friends is always good!

Thanks!

Dan

While I would love to believe this is real...... it just doesn't look right to me and I don't even know what it is?! Can you help? What is it? Is it fake?

Thanks!!!!

Hi Stogieman,

I do hope this helps on this one. I have seen it before and I can tell you exactly where:

Red Army Uniforms of World War II in Colour Photographs by Anton Shalito, Ilya Savchenkov & Andrew Mollo; No. 14 in the Europa Militaria series.

The main reference and photos for it are on page 63 which is nearly the end of the book. There are actually two badges... this one is for Distinguished Marksman of the Red Army, instituted in 1938.

The other, which is all brass in color on the background star but with the inscription and the same square pattern in black and of course the star in red and the crossed barrels in silver as are the binocs. That one is for Distinguished Artillery Preparation of the Red Army; instituted in 1936.

Can't vouch for the reverse of the badge as I've never seen anything but the front... but I feel they are handsome little badges and I'd love to have a set myself... but no idea what they run. Assume they're pricey since I never see them. But from what I see pictured in the book and comparing it with yours I see no problems whatsoever! Nice find!

Anyhow I hope this helps.

Dan

No only in Russian. What else should we expect? Sites on US or British medals tend to be only in English. While far from perfect, the various online translation engines give you the pidgin-Russian version. I like

http://www.online-translator.com/default.asp?lang=en

but there are dozens.

Hi Ed,

Many thanks. Was kind of afraid of that. And yes, you're quite right and excellent point! Our stuff is generally not done in Russian either. I think we all just need to agree on a common language, quite all this fussing and fighting in the world, get on giant starships and go out in search of new civilizations beyond the stars... and collect their militaria!

Thanks,

Dan