The U.S. 36th Infantry Division, which primarily consisted of Texas National Guard units, participated in the Italian Campaign and the liberation of southern France as part of Operation Dragoon. During these operations, they worked alongside various Allied units, including the Free French Forces, to achieve their objectives. The French 40e Régiment d'Artillerie d'Afrique served alongside and was integrated into U.S. units as part of the Free French Forces which were formed under General Charles de Gaulle. The New Zealand Division was involved during various battles in Italy. Especially during the Battle of Cassino in early 1944 where they played a key role in the efforts to capture the town and the nearby Monte Cassino abbey.

Well worn black crackle Zippo with three different unit insignia: That of the U.S. 36th Infantry Division, the French 40th Regiment of Artillery North African on the front and that of the New Zealand Division on the back.