Images(2)

Patch, Military

Object number2016.30.17

Date1944-1945

MediumFabric

Credit LineGift of Barbara Pontello

DescriptionCircular embroidered patch. Design consists of blue background with off-white star with a red circle at center. The star is within the lower circle of a gold "8" which is also flanked by gold wings.DimensionsDiameter x Depth: 3.625 × 0.125 in. (9.2 × 0.3 cm)
Inscriptions

Historical NotesThis Army Air Forces Eighth Air Force shoulder sleeve insignia belonged to Aldo Pontello (known as Norman,) who was a pilot in the European Campaign and flew multiple missions over Germany. Antonio Pontello of Horning, PA, and his three sons, Alfred, Aldo, and Roy, served the Allied forces in various capacities during WWII. Antonio, an Italian immigrant and coal miner, was too old for the draft, so he served stateside as auxiliary military police patrolling the Allegheny Country Airport. Antonio's three sons each served in the military: one as a pilot, one as a paratrooper, and one as infantry. His son Aldo, known as Norman, was a pilot in the European Campaign and flew multiple missions over Germany; the WWII uniform pieces belonged to him.

Previous owner Norman Aldo Pontello

Related institution United States Army Air Forces

Related institution Eighth Air Force

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