On June 6, the NVMM, along with the rest of the country will honor the 80^th anniversary of D-Day, one of the most significant moments in American military history. Written by Chris Langlois, the grandson of medic Eugene Roe who served with Easy Company, “How Easy Company Became a Band of Brothers” takes an in-depth look at the experiences of the paratroopers who served in the 101^st Airborne Division, 506^th Parachute Infantry Regiment.

Langlois’ story begins years before the early morning jumps into Normandy on June 6, 1944, and continues until the end of World War II. Read along and follow Easy Company on their journey that included both triumphs and challenges and gain a deeper understanding of this “story of humility, courage, honor, sacrifice, duty and patriotism.”

Extend Your Learning:

Use these comprehension questions with your kids or students to build their literacy skills!

What is the main idea of the story? What details let us know that this is the main idea?
What were the four stages of jump school that prepared the paratroopers?
What are the meanings behind the three main patches worn by Easy Company?
What was the first mission for Easy Company after landing in Normandy?
Why should we never forget the sacrifices of those who served in World War II?
State your opinion: What do you think was the most challenging part of being a member of Easy Company? What was the most rewarding part?

Watch the NVMM’s 75^th Anniversary of D-Day in which we hosted a panel discussion featuring Staff Sergeant Don Jakeway and fellow WWII Veterans Jack Welsh and Carl Strout. Jakeway, who parachuted behind enemy lines just before the Normandy landings, shared his heroic story of survival: https://nationalvmm.org/d-day-75-years-later/

Create your own paratrooper at home! All you’ll need is an Army figure or Lego person, string, tape, and a coffee filter.
Watch this video from Exploration Space for specific instructions and to learn about the physics behind parachutes.

If you are one of our central Ohio neighbors, check out the book at your local branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library where the book is available! Then come to the NVMM and learn more about unique Veteran stories that can be found throughout American History.

Back to Blog

NVMM Reads: “How Easy Company Became a Band of Brothers”

Extend Your Learning:

The NVMM is Open on MLK Day!

$1 Admission on Jan. 16 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.