Document Type
Finding Aid
Publication Date
2-2024
Abstract
The 83rd Chemical Mortar Battalion was activated at Camp Gordon, Georgia, on June 10, 1942. Following intensive training, the unit was shipped overseas for duty and spent the next 508 consecutive days in combat during World War II. First stationed in North Africa, the 83rd participated in campaigns in Sicily, Italy, southern France, and Germany, and occupied Austria after the German surrender.
The collection was compiled by historian and author Terry Lowry, whose father served in the unit, and who was appointed official historian of the 83rd Chemical Mortar Battalion. Lowry’s book on the unit, Bastard Battalion, was published in 2009. The materials in the collection include papers and items donated by members of the unit and their families. Other collections were purchased on E-Bay by Lowry.
Materials in the collection include hundreds of original World War II letters, documents, photographs, medals and other military-related items, maps, and newsletters. The unit action reports and other World War-II documents are primarily photocopies. Also in the collection is post-war correspondence from members of the unit and information on reunions. The books in the collection include an autobiography of Sophia Loren (who was aided by members of the 83rd), combat histories, and publications by soldiers in the unit. Audiovisual materials include interviews with members of the 83rd Chemical Mortar Battalion and a rare film of the unit in the field during World War II.
Rights
Special collections material is obtained from many sources and is intended primarily for research and educational purposes. Certain works may be protected by copyright, trademark, or related interests not governed by the department. It is up to the researcher to verify that they have permission to use these materials for publication or other activities.
Accession Number
2024.02/0884
Access and Use
For more information or to use any of these collections, contact:
Special Collections, Morrow Library
Marshall University
One John Marshall Drive
Huntington, WV 25755
(304) 696-2343
speccoll@marshall.edu
Recommended Citation
Marshall University Special Collections, "0884: Terry Lowry 83rd Chemical Mortar Battalion Collection, 1927-2017" (2024). Guides to Manuscript Collections. 766.
https://mds.marshall.edu/sc_finding_aids/766
