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Original U.S. Army Poirier & McLane military footlocker with period stenciled markings identifying ownership and transport directly to Major General Russell Lowell Vittrup, a senior U.S. Army officer who later promoted to Lt General and served as Chief of Staff, U.S. European Command during the Cold War (1963–1965).This is not a later attribution or family story — the provenance is physically stenciled on the trunk itself, consistent with mid-20th-century U.S. Army baggage and transport practices.Stenciled markings include (as visible):
• “TO RUSSELL L. VITTRUP”
• “MAJ GEN 017681”
• “TRANS OFF – HQ USARPAC FT SHAFTER HAWAII”
• “APO 301”
• “UNACCOMPANIED BAGGAGE”These markings align with Vittrup’s documented service in Europe during the Cold War period and his assignment within United States Army Europe (USAREUR).⸻Footlocker Details
• Type: U.S. Army footlocker / trunk
• Construction: Wood with metal reinforcement, riveted steel edging
• Hardware: Original metal latches, padlock hasp, side carry handles
• Finish: Original military green with later whitewash / overpaint consistent with transport marking practices
• Badge: Original oval metal manufacturer’s badge present (painted over, legible in close-up)Dimensions:
• 32” L x 16” W x 13½” H⸻ConditionGood vintage condition with honest service wear:
• Scuffs, scratches, paint loss, and field wear consistent with use
• No structural damage or rot
• Hinges and latches functional
• Interior clean and solidThis has not been restored, cleaned, or altered beyond what is shown — exactly how advanced collectors prefer to find them.⸻Historical ContextMajor General Russell L. Vittrup (1906–1992) was a career U.S. Army officer whose assignments placed him at senior command levels during the height of Cold War European operations. Personally marked transport trunks associated with named general officers are uncommon, especially examples that remain intact, legible, and unmodified.This piece bridges:
• Cold War Europe
• Senior U.S. Army logistics & command
• Authentic military transport history⸻Important Notes
• No additional paperwork accompanies the trunk — the stenciling itself is the provenance
• All markings are original and photographed clearly
• Please review photos carefully and ask questions prior to purchase⸻ShippingThis item ships carefully packed due to size and weight.
Local pickup may be available — message to discuss options.
