From Swastika to Thunderbird

From Swastika to Thunderbird

The patch that the 45th Infantry wore before and after World War II. This patch was one that Rufus H. Lennon wore. Lennon was a soldier from Bradenton, Florida. He was born in 1921 to Rufus Sr. and Bertha Lennon. On November 21, 1940, Lennon enlisted into the United States Army at the age of nineteen. He served as part of the 45th Infantry and the 180th Infantry. The 45th was formed in 1924 and created their own patch honoring Native Americans with the symbol of a swastika. he died in September 21, 1944. He was awarded Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He was the second oldest out of Berta and Rufus Lennon Sr. children.

Brigadier General Ross. H. Routh

http://www.m38a1.com/Misc-MV/thunderbirds.htm

2000-3-20

The location of the patches that was part of Brigadier General Ross. H. Routh's M38A's1roots.

2145 N.E. 36th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111

M38A1.com

2145 N.E. 36th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73111

photo of the patches