.

JUST LEAVING BEFORE THE MISSION - 4 APRIL 1945  - S/Sgt Gerard Weber pictured on Mindoro in anticipation of the jump on Negros. The intended Operation was that on the morning of 6 April, the 503d RCT (less one battalion reinforced)  was to drop in the vicinity of the ALICANTE AIRFIELD, NEGROS ISLAND, thereafter to advance rapidly to the west and seize and secure the town of SARAVIA, then advance rapidly to the south to effect a junction with the 185th Infantry in the vicinity of IMBANG RIVER BRIDGE. The mission would be cancelled whilst the first drop was still in the air. They were redirected to Panay, where the troopers were transferred by boat across the channel to Negros.

� 2010 Susan Stoger & 503d PRCT Heritage Bn