Old Abe
During the Civil War a Wisconsin Regiment, known as the 8th Wisconsin, carried a Bald Eagle into battle. The eagle was named Old Abe. The 8th would have Old Abe accompany their front lines into battle. Legend has it that the 101st gets the nickname screaming eagles from Old Abe screaming his way into battle.
Old Abe was wounded twice, but survived the war. He was taken back to Wisconsin where he died. His remains where mounted in the Wisconsin State Capitol Building. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed the building and Old Abe.
The 101st kept his memory alive when they placed him on their unit patch. The black background may represent iron, after the "Iron Brigade" of Wisconsin Civil War fame, from which the 101st traces their heritage. Then again some say it was because Old Abe rode on a black shield into battle. After putting Abe on the patch the airborne tab was added.
Young Abe/Billy Lee I
Young Abe was given to the unit by the state of Wisconsin in November 1942.Young Abe trained with the division until 1943. In 1943 Young Abe passed away. In September 1956 the 101st received another eagle. This eagle's name was Billy Lee I. Billy Lee was the last mascot the division owned. Billy Lee passed on in May 1957.
This is a picture of Young Abe.
Click on picture for enlargement. Division Patch
For more detailed information about Old Abe Please visit the following site.
