Robert E. Seale papers, 1999-2001.

ArchivalResource

Robert E. Seale papers, 1999-2001.

General description of the collection: The Robert E. Seale papers consist of a memoir compiled by Martha Hodge Strawn entitled, "WWII as I remember it: friendships, foolishness and cannon fodder." This narrative is based on interviews with, and notes written by, T/5 Seale. The memoir describes Seale's experiences in the Army from 1943-1945. Seale comments on the draft process, paratrooper training, troop transport aboard the SS Santa Rosa, relations between military and civilians in the US and European Theater of Operations, and his assignments as a liaison, clerical, and combat soldier. He compares German and American equipment and marvels at the inventiveness of individual GIs and units to solve problems. He describes his rest and relaxation (R&R) trips to Rome and Paris as well as combat in Italy, France, and Germany. He particularly describes the invasion of Southern France, the Battle of the Bulge, the liberation of Nice, and duty in the Maritime Alps. He comments on rations, uniforms, activities of German spies and sympathizers, Army leadership, the occupation of Berlin, Russian soldiers. and relations between officers and enlisted men, as well as between combat and non-combat troops. The narrative is interspersed with copies of photos, letters, and commentaries on the text. It also includes a copy of his discharge and report of separation.

1 folder.

Information

SNAC Resource ID: 7756871

U.S. Army Heritage & Education Center

Related Entities

There are 4 Entities related to this resource.

United States. Army. Parachute Combat Team, 517th

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w6v4607c (corporateBody)

United States. Army. Airborne Division, 82nd

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w6hq7qdf (corporateBody)

Seale, Robert E., 1924-2001.

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w6cg2x4s (person)

Technician 5th Grade (T/5) Robert E. Seale was born on 8 August1924 in Pelly, TX. He attended John Tarleton Agricultural and Mechanical College, a military school. He registered for the draft and entered the Army on 23 April 1943 at Camp Sam Houston, TX, volunteering for paratroop training. He was accepted and went to the 17th Airborne Infantry Regiment. He completed his basic training at Camp Toccoa, GA, then went on to Camp Mackall, GA for further training. He was assigned to the 517th Parachu...

Strawn, Martha Hodge.

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w62n888x (person)