This site is dedicated to my Dad,
Ray DePaola Jr. (12/11/20-12/07/96).
I am attempting to trace his 'tour of duty' while in the service. He enlisted in the Army November,1940, prior to Pearl Harbor and the US entering into World War II. On several pages of this site I have included some pictures of my Dad with his 'buddies' which were found amongst old family photos. If anyone can recognize his 'army buddies', I would appreciate their sending me the names of these individuals and places. If they are still living, a little background into their relationship with my Dad.
I've scanned a copy of his discharge, repaired, and interpreted the document as best I could.  It was badly discolored and had been taped together. In the war he was injured, we have his 'purple heart' but have none of his other medals which are listed on the discharge.  I have contacted eVetRecs to 'Initiate a Request for Military Personnel Records' and 'Replacement of Service Medals'. (see below)
As you can see from his picture, he bares the 1st Division "Big Red One" patch and his lapel pins, the 'Blue Spaders insignia of the 26th Infantry.