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 Douglas C-47 Pilot’s Headset Cord Worn by 2nd Lt. Harold Rinard (02015618) of the 85th Troop Carrier Squadron, 437th Troop Carrier Group, During His 1944 to 1945 Combat Missions

Dated: 1944-1945

Exclusive WWII Relic Display: Limited Edition of 50

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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 directly tied to the historical context of the relic itself. Every display includes a custom title and an 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:

This exceptionally rare and museum grade World War II artifact is an original U.S. Army Air Forces airborne troop carrier C-47 pilot headset cord that was heavily “mission worn” in combat by 2nd Lt. Harold Rinard (02015618), a Douglas C-47 Skytrain pilot with the 85th Troop Carrier Squadron of the 437th Troop Carrier Group under the IX Troop Carrier Command of the Ninth Air Force, whose C-47 aircraft directly supported some of the largest airborne operations of the European Theater.

2nd Lt. Harold Rinard (02015618) served as a Douglas C-47 Skytrain pilot with the 85th Troop Carrier Squadron, 437th Troop Carrier Group, IX Troop Carrier Command, flying continuous combat missions during every major Allied airborne operation in Western Europe.

On June 6th and 7th, 1944, he flew into enemy fire during Operation Neptune, the airborne phase of D-Day, piloting his C-47 from RAF Ramsbury at low altitude across the English Channel while towing gliders into the Cotentin Peninsula in direct support of the 82nd Airborne Division, then returning on follow up sorties to deliver vital frontline equipment, rations, and medical supplies to isolated 101st and 82nd airborne units under constant flak and small arms fire.

In the weeks after the invasion, he flew repeated combat resupply and medical evacuation missions throughout France, landing in forward areas to deliver critical supplies and evacuate wounded soldiers.

In August 1944, Rinard deployed to the Mediterranean Theater for Operation Dragoon, flying airborne assault and resupply missions during the invasion of southern France before returning to England. He then flew heavily contested glider tow and resupply missions during Operation Market Garden in September 1944, sustaining airborne forces fighting deep behind enemy lines in the Netherlands.

During the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, he flew winter resupply missions through storms and enemy fire to encircled American forces around Bastogne, delivering food, fuel, ammunition, and medical supplies that helped keep the line intact.

On March 24, 1945, Rinard participated in Operation Varsity, towing two gliders across the Rhine River and releasing them east of Wesel during the largest single day airborne assault of the war. In the final weeks of combat, he continued flying supply and evacuation missions across Germany before transitioning after Victory in Europe to humanitarian flights evacuating prisoners of war and displaced civilians, concluding a combat career defined by sustained airborne assault, precision flying, and repeated missions flown under fire from Normandy to the Rhine.

#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.