I happened upon this incredible thread when I searched for Morning Reports for the 44th ID. The quality of your exchanges compelled me to do something I don't do often- register for another web service.

I have been researching my Dad's WWII history for about 2 years now. I have a few photographs and a few documents but very little specific information. I've read around a dozen books and toured the trail of the 44th's Command Posts and major battles in France, spanning Lorraine from Luneville (Forest de Parroy) to Bliesbruck along the German border.

I've just returned from a 4 day trip to Lorraine France to attend a series of ceremonies organized by the French in the Luneville district to honor the Americans who liberated their region 65 years ago this month. There were about 20 American vets, French and American Honor Guards, General Officers from both countries, a squadron of US Cavalry and townspeople turning out everywhere we went. It was incredibly heartfelt by the French and almost overwhelming to us Americans.

One thing I can contribute right away is that the French have a strong tradition of collecting facts from the war. To illustrate, when we went out to Leintrey (on the edge of Parroy), just east of Luneville, to dedicate a site to Capt. Patch, son of 7th Army commander Alexander Patch, the event organizer announced that after extensive research of reports and witness interviews, they had finally determined the exact location and circumstances of Capt Patch's tragic death. In another town a research committee had spent several years developing the precise details of crash of a B-24 to the east of the town.

It is therefore possible that a local historical committee in the vicinity of the Denny & Bud's demises will have even more detail, although there is no certainty of it.

There is a French Lorraine Battlefield Memorial Commission, which is headed by Mr. Gerard Bazin who may be of assistance in locating records or witnesses in southern Lorraine.

The Epinal Battlefield Cemetery is currently managed by Mr. Tom Cavaness.

I have some contact information for these folks if you can use it.

The postings in this thread are invaluable for my research. I'll be happy to try to answer any questions, supply documents, pictures or findings as the group might request.

Steve