The
Screaming DucksWednesday 20th September : The Island
A day to remember for everyone! Today we were the guests of The Screaming Ducks.
The Screaming Ducks are a "Band of Friends" who share the same passion for World War II. With their common background in restoring authentic
World War II vehicles, they are dedicated to making history come alive and, in this way, showing and telling the world about THEM who fought for our liberty.
The name Screaming Ducks was chosen because of the slang name for the 502nd, dating back to WWII, the Five-O-Deuce or
Five-O-Ducks (source: Rendezvous with Destiny). Thus : Screaming Ducks!The Screaming Ducks had no hesitation in welcoming the participants of Operation Torch. With their free spirit guiding them, they
opened their homes and their vehicles, donating their time and effort.
"Torch the Island" was the creed for the day.
The Island is the nickname given to the area between two large rivers flowing East to West in the centre of The Netherlands.
It was the background of some heavy fighting by different units of the American 101st Airborne Division during October 1944 after they relieved the British.The ride throught The Island in WWII jeeps and trucks was an impression the participants will never forget.
All catering (home cooked meals) during the day was provided by the parents of one of the members of "the Ducks": Mr & Mrs Vink. Wonderful food provided by wonderful people
Having Don Malarkey, E/506, along to share with everyone about his experiences in the Island area was more great "living history".
Traveling along the Rhine River, the dykes, and to the railroad bridge near Arnhem, listening to Don tell firsthand experiences are special memories.
And…we learned what WWII soldiers did when they ran out of gas too…
Always a spare can on board.
In the evening, the Screaming Eagles of WWII Foundation, was honored by the acceptance of an Honorary Membership of their organisation by Mr Don Malarkey.
