David Barton Mathis was my Grandfather, he was stationed in north africa at first and i know he was in italy also, before somehow injuring his back(I think). he didn't talk about it and nobody would ask him I don't guess. If I were old enough before he died I would have found out about it. He was in the 63rd signal bn in the 5th army. That is all the information that i have right now. I am currently waiting to hear from the MPRC but, i hear tell they were probaly destroyed in a fire there. Any information on anybody who might have served with him would be greatly appreciated! Thanks,
Hello Matt, and along with the others who have already said so - a very warm welcome to these forums ! I have to confess that my own readings and knowledge about 5th Army/the Italian Campaign are pitifully inadequate to answer your question but be patient - you never know where help will appear from on the forums ! BTW , I know that one or two other contributors would very much like to see more Italian Campaign discussion here, so don't be afraid to ask or post anything ....
DB-have you tried contacting the old unit-or even old 5th army records, im sure somewhere along the road someone can tell you something. Good luck, i tried tracing my Grandfather's war history-and was lucky enough to get them so hang tough...
Thanks, Martin Bull and Panzerknacker! I have not yet contacted the 63rd signal bn yet they are actually based in my home state, so instead of calling, i'm just going to plan a trip there. easier i'm sure. Thanks again,
I'll have a look through my US books on Italy to see if I can find any mention of 63 Signal Bn and will get back to you.
DB, one poster here is Military History Network. I think you'd like their site for the US in Italy. http://www.milhist.net/index.html No.9
Had a check through the US books I have and can't find any mention of this unit. Try contacting the webmaster of the following website: http://members.aol.com/ItalyWW2/Menu.htm