Comes with a hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity and a full historical research write-up.

*Ships via USPS Priority Mail in a medium box with full insurance, tracking, and signature confirmation required upon delivery.

Display Size: 6.25 x 8.25 inches (Medium/Large Display Size)

From: World War II - European Theater

Historical Piece of WWII History Included: Original World War II Operation Overlord D-Day CG-4A Wood Preserved From Brigadier General Don Pratt’s “THE FIGHTING FALCON” 101st Airborne Division Waco Glider.

Dated: June 6th, 1944

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🇺🇸A PROUD U.S.A. COMPANY - OUR PROCESS🇺🇸

Each of our “Piece of History” displays is meticulously hand-made, one-of-a-kind, and created to honor and preserve the legacy of World War II. Our in-house graphic design team carefully pairs every relic with a high-resolution archival photograph and an authentic battlefield map—both directly tied to the historical context of the relic itself. Every display includes a custom title and an in-depth historical description, providing meaningful insight into the artifact’s significance. Printed on premium matte photographic paper, each display is housed in a high-quality 6×8 frame proudly made in the U.S.A. To ensure both preservation and presentation, the artifact is placed on plush archival padding inside a UV-resistant clear acrylic case. Before being sealed, each piece is authenticated by our archivists and secured with a tamper-proof authentication hologram. This dual-layered display is designed to be instantly ready for your home, office, or collection…whether on a desk, wall, or shelf. Own your piece of WWII history today!

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#1. Historical Significance:

On June 6, 1944, during the historic D-Day landings of Operation Overlord, Brigadier General Don F. Pratt of the 101st Airborne Division became a key figure in one of the most daring and dangerous aspects of the invasion: the glider assault. As Assistant Division Commander, General Pratt was assigned to land with the 327th Glider Infantry Regiment in a Waco CG-4A glider—famously named "The Fighting Falcon"—one of the hundreds of gliders involved in the early morning airborne assault into German-occupied France. The glider, towed by a C-47 Skytrain, was part of Mission Elmira, a critical component of the 101st’s plan to deliver troops, weapons, and equipment behind enemy lines near Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, in the Cotentin Peninsula, with the goal of seizing vital road junctions and causeways leading inland from Utah Beach. Pratt’s Waco glider was loaded with his command jeep, radio gear, and several other soldiers, and was one of the first to land. However, the landing went tragically wrong. After being released from its tow aircraft, The Fighting Falcon came in too fast on the dew-covered grass of Landing Zone “E” near Hiesville. The glider skidded across the field and crashed into a line of poplar trees, the force of the impact causing fatal injuries. General Pratt, who had chosen to ride in the glider rather than parachute in order to command his troops immediately upon landing, was killed instantly—making him the highest-ranking Allied officer to die on D-Day. His death was a significant blow to the 101st Airborne’s command structure. The sacrifice of The Fighting Falcon’s crew and passengers underscored the immense risks of the glider missions, which were vital yet perilous operations often overshadowed by the more well-known parachute drops. Despite the loss, the mission succeeded in bringing in much-needed reinforcements and equipment to support the paratroopers already engaged in intense fighting against entrenched German forces. The battered wreckage of The Fighting Falconwould become a solemn symbol of the airborne struggle on D-Day, representing the bravery and tragic cost paid by the men of the 101st Airborne Division.German

#2. Why This Display is Special:

Our "Piece of History" displays are a tangible connection to one of the most pivotal moments in WWII history. Carefully curated and designed, each display transforms an authentic fragment of WWII history into a breathtaking and meaningful tribute to the past. Whether you're a passionate history enthusiast, a proud descendant of a WWII veteran, or simply someone who values the sacrifices made for freedom, this limited edition display offers a unique way to honor the legacy of the Greatest Generation. Each display invites conversation, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the courage and resilience of the U.S. soldiers who fought in the European Theater. It stands not only as a stunning display but as a reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring spirit that helped shape the modern world. Let this display spark curiosity, inspire remembrance, and preserve the memory of those who fought for liberty for generations to come.

🇺🇸We are deeply honored to preserve these powerful pieces of history…not only for the world-renowned museums we curate for, but also for private collectors like yours! For this special display, 50% of all sales from this “Piece of History” display will be donated to the non-profit Honor Flight Network. Honor Flight is committed to transporting as many U.S. military veterans as possible to Washington, D.C., where they can visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice—all at no cost to them. Thank you for joining us in preserving history and honoring the heroes who helped shape it. 🇺🇸

This display would make an extraordinary addition to any WWII or military history collection. For further details or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out.