Bingo - I called my mother and asked if the store was Von Lengerke & Antoinne she said yes it was. She immediately recognized the name because her maiden name is von Elbe. I want to thank everyone who responded - incredibly emotional to know that my dad and my grandfather went to VL&A together to get this knife. The knife is in great shape albeit scratches from sharpening. Much of the blade shines like new - no corrosion etc. Dad carried a BAR and the 126th went on to Japan during the occupation. Like many guys, he contracted malaria. This was purchased at VL&A after May 15 and before July 30, 1944.

Never heard of that company so did a bit of searching:

http://www.vintagegunleather.com/company-marks/vonlengerke_history.html


Again, awesome find. My grandfather was also in the Phil. and then went on to Japan for the occupation. I researched all of his records for my Dad for Christmas.

It is simply an awesome knife! You are so lucky to have it and the sheath is in excellent shape. It doesn't look dry rotted at all.

Isn't it amazing how a knife, razor, helmet, kit, old "bluing's worn off .45", etc. immediately go from "wonder how much it's worth" to "hope we never get so hungry that I've got to sell this one"; 'cause it rode on Grandpa's hip through France in 1917 or was carried by Dad all over Europe for 4 years in the 1940s, or Uncle Gardner and/or Uncle Ceif in Italy and Africa same period. These are the ones you wish could talk 'cause you know you only heard a little and 'ain't no price high enough...........just add another shelf over the mantel....and be thankful.

I forgot about VL@A - that was a great store.

Lots of great grear sold there back in the day.

Alan Grombacher
RKS#5531
RKCC-CMI-010

The sheath is is fine shape and the knife has been resting there securely all these years. It is on top of the shelf in my office next to dad's memorial flag case from his funeral. I am going to see if I have any photos of dad wearing it while in the service. I have one photo 1967 when we went on a fishing trip into Canada.

A lot of history you have there, and a very fine knife to boot. Treasure it dearly.

What a wonderful find and a fantastic family heirloom!

Rob

335 S. Wabash, Chicago is where the CNA Building sits today. Anyone who has seen the the red building in the Chicago Skyline knows where VL@A was and didn't even know it.

I sent a link to this thread to Guy Clark's Agent. His office forwarded it to Guy. I know he will enjoy reading it.