December, 1943, the division boarded ship once more, sailing first to Northern Ireland. There, during holiday season and early 1944, the 82nd soldiers were housed for the most part in cozy Quonset huts just outside Belfast. In Northern Ireland, there were few training opportunities and much free time.

The memories of the 1943 Christmas season amid the Ulster folk of Belfast would linger long with 82nd paratroopers and glidermen.

Next: Prep for D-Day