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Up for sale is an incredibly poignant and heavily documented World War II Killed In Action (KIA) archive belonging to Sergeant Peter Vroeginday (A.S.N. 32 386 211) of Clifton, New Jersey. Sgt. Vroeginday served in Company H, 349th Infantry Regiment, 88th Infantry Division, and was tragically killed in action in Italy in July 1944.
This lot offers exceptional provenance and historical value, perfect for serious militaria collectors, researchers, or museums.
Lot Includes:
Original WWII KIA Telegram: Dated July 31, informing his mother he was seriously wounded in action on July 12.
American Legion Gold Star Citation: Issued November 30, 1945.
Regimental History & Action Report: A copy of the History of the 349th Infantry Regiment, 88th Infantry Division. Crucially, it includes a detailed combat report for July 12, the exact day he was wounded, describing heavy enemy machine gun and artillery fire near Villamagna.
Embossed Leather Scrapbook Cover: A beautifully detailed vintage leather cover featuring raised imagery of aircraft in formation, a battleship, a tank, and anti-aircraft artillery.
Official War Department Correspondence: Three letters regarding his temporary burial in Follonica and permanent interment in the Florence U.S. Military Cemetery.
Handwritten Correspondence: Original postcards and letters sent home, as well as a letter and newspaper clipping detailing his brother Adrian's Marine Corps service in the South Pacific.
Original Photographs: A clear photo of Sgt. Vroeginday in uniform.
Promotion Certificate: Army of the United States certificate promoting him to Corporal in October 1942 at Camp Gruber, Oklahoma.
Local Ephemera: A typed letter of sympathy from the Mayor of Passaic dated August 1, 1944, original newspaper clippings documenting his death and local memorial services, and 1990s correspondence from the American Battle Monuments are in vintage, pre-owned condition consistent with 80+ years of age. Documents show typical folds, mild yellowing, and minor edge wear. The 349th regimental history booklet shows some staining and pen marks on the front cover. The leather scrapbook shows moderate edge and corner wear. Please review all photos carefully to assess condition and grading, as they are part of the description.
