This wartime lighter features both the U.S. Parachutist Badge and the Glider Badge, representing the two main elements of America’s elite airborne forces during WWII. These badges were awarded to paratroopers and glider infantrymen of divisions such as the 82nd and 101st Airborne, who played key roles in major operations including the invasions of Sicily, Normandy, and the Netherlands, as well as the Rhine crossing into Germany.
Paratroopers were dropped behind enemy lines by parachute, while glider troops landed in unpowered aircraft—both facing extreme risk to secure vital objectives. The presence of both insignia on this lighter highlights the bravery and shared legacy of these soldiers in some of the most critical missions of the European theater.
