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Lennon,

 

I collect DUI Pins---Distinguishing Unit Insignia that were worn on dress uniforms and the folding cloth "overseas" caps. These DUI pins were optional wear for some units but other units were required to wear them. I have about 50 or so. Some are WW2 vintage, where others are more modern versions ----but still produced for Army use. Sometimes you will see some that are copies made by Veteran's organizations.

I have a few extra. I'll have to go check. But these may not be any unit that you are interested in talking about. Most are from units that served in the Italian Camapign. But for example, I bought one the other day that was a pin for the 3rd Infantry Division, which resembles the blue/white striped square patch they wore. This one was probably made locally in Germany towards the end of the war.

I know I have 3 different versions of the 362 Infantry Regiment (91 Infantry Division). I also have an extra one for the 350 Infatnry Regiment (88 "Blue Devil" Infantry Division). This unit performed bravely in Italy and this DUI pin can fetch a good price: $25 at least. It is large and ornate---see below.

I know I have extras for the 5th Army. The pin resembles the shoulder patch. Soldiers who served directly under the command of the Army or the Division wore these pins. Then there is the one pin for an Airborne Regiment that has some chipped enamel. I would be willing to part with it.

Any DUI pin has a story, at least for the infantry regiments & artillery battalions. Each DUI pin has a story behind the design that usually dates back to its WW1 history. If it was a National Guard unit, the pin may reflect the local history of the state where it served. Some of the typical symbols are explained on my webpage.

Here is a webpage I created that has examples of 30 DUI pins. Most of these are part of my collection but NOT all.

DUI Pins

 

I would be glad to help you obtain some Pins. I know they are hard to find in Europe. Drop me an email.

 

Steve

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.... 350 Infatnry Regiment ........................... 168 Infantry Regt (34 ID)

 

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......... 3 Infty Div QM ....................... 180 Infantry Regt (45 ID) (my first DUI)

 

....... Various Support Units of 34th Division: HQ, Signal, QM