First Special Force Exhibit
Special fight knife created for and used only by the First Special Service Force on Display
The First Special Service Force, nicknamed the “Devil’s Brigade,” was founded in 1942 as the only unit ever formed of US and Canadian Army volunteers. Its troops were extensively trained in infantry tactics, sabotage, raids, winter warfare, and mountain, amphibious, and parachute operations. Italy would be their first test, and the Force used their intense mountaineering training to take the Germans by surprise and capture Mont La Difensa and Monte La Remetea in December of 1943 to clear a path for Allied troops to advance up the peninsula.
During the 251 days they saw combat, the Force suffered 2,314 casualties and captured over 30,000 prisoners. They were also awarded 5US campaign stars and 8 Canadian battle honors for their service.
The Museum of the American G.I. is honored to display the uniforms and equipment of four members of this historic unit – Eugene F. Specht, James K. Dambly, C. Getty Page, and William F. WIlliford. One of the highlights of this exhibit is the special fight knife created for and used only by the First Special Service Force. Come see this rare piece of history.
