WWII U.S. Photograph of Combat Infantrymen Posing in Front of the Arc de Triomphe (1944)

Description

This original WWII U.S. photograph is quite exceptional. It captures several American combat infantrymen posing in front of the Arc de Triomphe on Paris, France's Champs-Élysées. We can see representatives from many different U.S. divisions - the First Army, Engineer Special Brigade, 36th Infantry Division, just to name a few. The men appear to be at ease, with only garrison caps for headwear. A wide variety of uniforms can also be seen, ranging from a tanker jacket, several Ike jackets, a few M-43s, and even some men who are just wearing their wool service shirts. Interestingly, the older man on the far right appears to be a French civilian holding something in his hand. We suspect this photograph was captured sometime in late August 1944 and perhaps depicts a "Key to the City" ceremony. Unfortunately, there is no information inscribed on the photograph's reverse. The photograph measures approximately 7 inches wide and 5 inches tall.

Provenance

Personal Collection of Chelius Carter

Condition Report

This photograph is in good condition, with minor yellowing of the paper and slight damage to its corners.