WW2 US Para question...?

[T50]

Hello Gents
It might be a dumb question but:
Did Paras from 82nd Airborn in "Normandy" use
BARs at all??? Thanks!

Taesung

 

[Steve]

Assuming you mean in WW2, yes.--Steve Scott

 

[Steve]

Uhhh... I guess that "Normandy" in your post DOES mean WW2. Still yeah.--

 

[Dani A.]

Hi Taesung,

Actually, there's nothing dumb in the question. In fact, paratrooper's TOE did NOT contemplate the BAR, that is, it was no regulation equipment for Normandy (or other early campaigns). Apparently this is due to the weapon not being considered appropriate for the jump - there were'nt even purpose-designed airborne individual weapon bags for it, as were for other weapons.

But, the BAR was carried into action in Normandy anyway, it would seem extra-officially, by individuals who managed to somehow handle the jump with the weapon, dissasembled or not.

I have seen this question discussed at Mark Bando's excellent 101 Airborne website:

http://www.101airborneww2.com/

I suppose you can do a search in their forum for it. I remember perfectly I read this there.

The BAR was not common until later operations, when it would be included in the TOE, also. But, although not common nor regulated, there were some to be seen at Normandy too.

Regards,

Dani

 

[T50]

Hello Gents
Thanks you all for the info!!!
I think I'm getting a pretty good picture of
what this figure will look like.

Another question:
Since the figure will have M1 Garand, I want
to give it 2 ammo bandoliers criss-crossing his chest.
Is this accurate??? or only 1 bandolier per rifleman?
My ignorance in Allied subjects really shines bright here...

Taesung