Who are these guys, and why are they smiling (well, sort of)?
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The two on the left look army, the next 5 look like they are wearing marine helmets and the last guy is a medic and they are all wearing the same medal. Eyes aren't as eagle like as they used to be, so I can't make out the medal. For a bad guess despite the two that look army, I'll say the second group that raised the flag at Suribachi.
No to Suribachi. But yes, they are all wearing the same medal.
By the way, they are also all in the Army -- in fact, they're all from the same unit.
The medal appears to be the distinguished service cross, if that helps anyone.
Yes, they all received the DSC on the same day.
This looks to be a western front location.
I will guess and say Rangers involved in the Point du Hoc action.
Very close to the right answer. Yes, they are Rangers. And yes, this is on the western front. But no, they were not part of the unit that captured Point du Hoc.
Those are the chaps that found and destroyed the german arty guns with thermite grenades while under fire.
I believe that Weasel is referring to the 2nd Ranger Battalion. Sorry, wrong battalion. Try further down the beach.
I seem to be lucky and have a second chance.
Members of the 5th Ranger battalion who got the order "Rangers, lead the way" at Omaha Beach.