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Until now, Michel de Trez has typically produced texts which depicted large numbers
of unpublished period photographs in order to highlight some facts of history or men-at-arms,
rather than portray in-depth analysis' of equipment and artifacts. His new work is a diversion from
that practice, since for the first time the Author now opens to exploration the inner-most treasures
of the D-Day Paratrooper Historical Center, in order to present what is sure to become the "Bible"
of the American paratrooper helmet.
For those who are not familiar with the Author, over the past three decades, Michel has evolved
to become one of the foremost authorities on U.S. WWII Airborne studies. His time has been
diligently spent shuffling between Belgium, where he dedicates himself to publishing; Normandy,
where he operates the D-Day Paratrooper Historical Center; and the United States, where
he conducts much of his advanced research. His results are renown for exactness, as well as
for sheer quality and the rarity of pieces which he has diligently acquired over time. His WWII
airborne collection remains unrivaled in every possible sense.
The uniqueness of this book is a reflection of one man's passion and diligence, as he scours images
from every possible location, to include new photographs brought to light directly from veterans,
as well as from the most obscure of archives. Illuminated entirely by Michel's depth of consistency,
his work is iconographic in illustrating and studying the various markings of WWII paratrooper
helmets. The book is novel in answering the complex question of paratrooper helmet markings
through its singular approach of having the objects themselves tell their story. Not to be outdone,
the Author profusely illustrates his work with multiple, never before seen period photographs
and hundreds of historical accent pieces. Doubtless, this work will capture even the most advanced
historian and collector with many hidden gems, and is sure to indellibly satisfy the novice as well.
