Extensive Named WWI Marine Corps Group

A large group belonging to Sergeant Fred F. Vincel of the 5th Marine Brigade. The group is comprised of Vincel’s uniform, decorations, insignia and equipment, with original paperwork. The following items are included:

– Vincel’s World War I Marine Corps uniform. This is the classic Marine forest green wool uniform tunic with matching breeches. The tunic has the multi-piece wool and embroidered shoulder patch of the 5th Marine Brigade. Each sleeve has the rank stripes for a sergeant, while the left sleeve also displays a discharge stripe and two gold bullion overseas chevrons. The collar of the tunic has a matched set of Marine Corps collar disks. Above the left breast pocket is a pin back ribbon bar with two ribbons. Below the ribbon bar is an “Expert Rifleman” badge. Pinned to the pocket flap is Vincel’s Victory Medal, with “France” clasp and a Maltese cross. The ribbons on the ribbon bar are frayed, as is the ribbon of the Victory Medal on the top edge of the wrap brooch. On a chain on the right shoulder is a brass “Thunderer” whistle. Inside of the sleeve the name of “Fred Vincel” is written on the striped lining. The tunic is extremely clean, and has just two small moth holes on the upper back of the jacket, each one about the size of a pencil eraser. The breeches match the tunic exactly, even down to the presence of the same striped lining that was used in the sleeves of the tunic. The breeches, like the tunic, are exceptionally clean, the only noticeable point worth mentioning being that the breeches are missing one of the back pocket flap buttons, as well as the four buttons on the front fly.

In addition to the uniform, the group also includes:

– Vincel’s M1917 combat helmet, with a screw back Marine Corps eagle, globe and anchor emblem affixed to the front. The helmet is lacking the chin strap, but the liner is intact.
– Vincel’s gas mask, in the carrying bag with instruction book, and with Vincel’s name and unit written on the front of the bag.
– Vincel’s two dog tags (on which an extra “L” was added to his last name).
– A khaki cotton cloth haversack, with leather bottom.

Original documents include a hard cover “Warrant Record” containing Vincel’s promotion to corporal as well as his promotion to sergeant. The documents also include Vincel’s original discharge that includes a notation that on February 23, 1921, Vincel was sent 1 Victory Medal ribbon, 1 France bar, and 1 Maltese Cross, the notation signed by a Marine Crops sergeant.

A truly impressive and complete group to a Marine Corps sergeant who served in France during World War I.