Interesting photo of 504th PIR troops with M1928A1 before Market-Garden

[Kilroy]

Hello all, 

I saw this photo on Facebook, I found it interesting and thought the group would enjoy as well. 
 

Neil

[rpbcps]

 

The modified vertical forward grip, attached to the original horizontal forward grip, and the attaching two 30 rnd mags together is a good example of airborne improvisation. 

I presume the 'white strap' around the mags  is only there for the journey. I could see that causing delays in mag changes in combat. Something airborne troops don't need when they hit the ground. The weight of two loaded 30 round magazines may put extra pressure on the release catch, therefore increasing risk of 'losing' the magazines? 

Here is a link to an earlier topic, together with some images, of soldiers with modified forward grips on their Thompsons.

 

Edited August 25, 2025 by rpbcps
Added link to earlier topic & removed "Glider troops? They appear to be wearing parachutes.", since title of topic was changed, my post made little sense to anyone reading it now.

[Kilroy]

You’re right, I spaced while I was typing it. They’re clearly getting into a plane and if I would read the caption it says "504th PIR." 

[rpbcps]

On 8/22/2025 at 2:58 AM, Kilroy said:

You’re right, I spaced while I was typing it. They’re clearly getting into a plane and if I would read the caption it says "504th PIR." 

Excuse my ignorance, to be honest I was unaware what unit the "504th PIR" were, I just looked it up. The 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR), was created on the 1st May 1942, as part of the 82nd Airborne. 

Stationed in North Africa ready for the Invasion of Sicily and Italy, where they saw heavy fighting and resistance from the German army. Early 1944, the 504th PIR were relocated to England and rejoined the 82nd Airborne, prior to D-Day and Op Market Garden. ?

https://allamericanscp.org/504th-p-i-r/504_regimental_history/

Edited August 25, 2025 by rpbcps
Added link

[RoscoeTurner]

On 8/21/2025 at 7:58 PM, Kilroy said:

You’re right, I spaced while I was typing it. They’re clearly getting into a plane and if I would read the caption it says "504th PIR." 

Edited the title for you.

[Rekraps]

47 minutes ago, RoscoeTurner said:

Edited the title for you.

As for me..... I just enjoyed the pic.

[devlin888]

Always cool to see actual photos of gear in use instead of just staged shots. Amazing how much the 1928s were still around by Market-Garden even though you mostly hear about the M1s. Little details like that make the history feel more real.