When I began researching my father’s career, I naturally gained an interest in all things Tank Destroyer. I would check Ebay daily for leads but also for the “stuff” that relates to these men. Patches, pins, pillow cases, post cards, match covers and so much more. On a number of occasions, I would come up bidding against a very serious TD collector. Once and a while I would get something I was after but there were many times I didn’t. It would be years later that I would be in contact with Paul B. Stevens the author of the Pictorial Guide to U.S. Anti-Tank and Tank Destroyer Memorabilia. In a way, I guess I’m glad he got all those items, because this book is certainly the standard to go by for Collecting them. Beyond what he has been able to collect, Paul has pulled from many other sources to thoroughly cover the subject, including museums and other collectors to provide unparalleled group of items and variations. He says that his guide isn’t complete but if he doesn’t have it in the book, I would be truly interested in seeing it.
Like so many works like this, Paul has dedicated his book to his father, Stewart P. Stevens of the 894th Tank Destroyer Battalion.
NOTE: A revised and expanded edition of the Pictorial Guide is now available through the ASMIC (American Society of Military Insignia Collectors). The guide is $25.00 for non-members and can be ordered using their Catalog Order Form, located in the Publication area of their website. See it at www.asmic.org