I met a gentleman named Howard Manoian at St.Mere Eglise in December,2000.He jumped into St.Mere Eglise on June 5th,1944(by mistake).He was a member of the 505th PIR(82nd Infantry Division).I don't know who he would be for in the coming election.He is kind of a free-spirit(but he seemed equally pissed-off at antone who was near)!!!
I was also fortunate enough to meet a guy last weekend. I noticed him in the local Denny's. He had a cap on that said "17th Aorbourne Corps, 507th" I stopped and asked him if he jumped on D-day. He said yes and then I thanked him for his service. He said "Nobody has thanked me in over 30 years." This bothered me and I was on my way out so I said "Well mine is sincere and I mean it." I about got to the door and it hit me so I went back and said "were you at the church?" He looked at me for 15 seconds and said "Yes". I then asked "Were you at the bridge?" He again paused and said "Yes". At this point I was starting to well up and just wanted to go. I shook his hand again and said "Rangers lead the way." He responded appropriately with "All the way." I then left and got about three miles away and reliazed I didn't ask his name. Returned and he was gone. I will find him again.
So if any of you readers do not know about the church and the bridge u need to find out. They are two of the most compelling D-day stories.
Hint, on D-day the 507th PIR was attached to the 82nd Airboure - The All American(s)