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On the 4th of September this year the Stephen Ambrose 'Band of Brothers' tour touched down at Littlecote House once again.

Amongst the party was Col. Ed Shames, one of the original 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment that was stationed in the area prior to leaving for France on D-Day.

Ed originally served in I Company of the 506th P.I.R. before being transferred to Headquarters Company.

He received a Battlefield Commission during the taking of Carentan in Normandy and went on to join Easy Company as a 2nd Lieutenant prior to Operation Market Garden.

During his time as an Officer Ed gained the reputation of being a stickler for discipline, detail and for always getting the job done. He also brought more men home than most of the other Platoon Leaders in the 506th.

The day was great, the weather was kind, as Ed inspected the troops in front of the house then carried on with a tour of the house and a session of signing the many items put before him.

Lunchtime found him at the Crown at Aldbourne where he was to be seen fondly nursing a pint of Beer . . . .

. . . . . if you would like to learn more of the story of Ed Shames then click here to read an interview with Ed.

. . . . so our thanks to all who helped make the day memorable, to Col. Ed Shames - it really was an honour to meet you - thank you for your time and courtesy, to all those who accompanied Ed on the tour - your company and your stories were excellent, to all the Re-enactors - thanks for bringing your style and colour to the event. And , of course, to Mr. Bruce Steggles and the Management and Staff at Littlecote House - thank you for giving us the day . . .