In 1944, much of the globe was swept up in the fear and violence of World War II, but for those who were never on the front line, it can be difficult to imagine what it was like for those who were. That’s why this series of unearthed sketches by US soldier Victor Lundy, only 21 years old at the time, is so important.
Now 92, Lundy went on to become an acclaimed architect, donating his sketchbooks to the US Library of Congress, so that his memories and experiences will live on forever. Take a look at some of the most moving images in the gallery above.
- Before pay day – shooting craps for cigarettes. (June 1, 1944)
- Promenade Deck. (September 2, 1944)
- Ready to go. (September 7, 1944)
- France. Cracking the Zeigfried [i.e. Siegfried] line, air raid over Germany Seen on a morning hike. (September 13, 1944)
- Part of the Atlantic Wall, Quinéville 6 men from L Co. hurt here, 6 killed. (September 21, 1944)
- “Pat” (T/Sgt. Patenaude) zeroing in with the 60 mm mortars in front of the 3rd platoon. (November 1, 1944)
- One of the 4-men German patrol who didn’t get back. (November 1, 1944)
Images: Library of Congress
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