Army & Navy: PRIVATE OF SPAHIS

Hardbitten French professionals, returned to action and glory in Tunisia, had seen no finer staff officer than Major General Walter B. Smith (right), Eisenhower's chief of staff. Their recognition: induction in the famed 2nd Spahis as an honorary first class private. General de Goutel laid the colonial cavalry regiment's scarlet burnous on "Beedle" Smith's shoulders, pinned the outfit's medal badge on his O.D. blouse.

...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!