OVERLORD MILITARY COLLECTABLES has been owned and operated since 1986 by Rosemary and Tony Petruso. Tony has always been interested in military history and in particular World War II history. When they decided to open their store in 1986 OVERLORD was the first choice for the store's name. "Operation Overlord", was the code name for the invasion of France on D-Day. The date of D-Day, June 6, 1944, is even used in their telephone number.
In addition to assisting in the day to day operation of the store, Rosemary is a full time teacher. Tony has been collecting militaria since a youth, and continued his collecting while a sergeant in the Air Force. He was a weapons loader on the Phantom aircraft and was stationed at Hahn Air Base Germany from 1966 to 1969.
While OVERLORD buys and sells any type of military item from any era, Tony specializes in the collecting of "Sweetheart Jewelry" and related items. Tony is also a private pilot with instrument and sea plane ratings and in 2000 received his helicopter pilot's license. They own a 1953 Piper Tri-Pacer which they use to search the Midwest for more military collectables. The picture below is Rosemary and Tony visiting Bettles, Alaska, which is 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle. It was a beautiful day in June. People were watering their grass and the dandelions were even beautiful!
Rosemary and Tony are also interested in military vehicles and have owned numerous ones over the years. At this time they own a 1952 M-37 plus several inflatable reconnaissance boats. They are members of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association.
Rosemary and Tony hope they can be of assistance to you. OVERLORD MILITARY COLLECTABLES always enjoys your inquiries and comments. The store is approximately 2 miles from St. Louis International Airport. If you are in St. Louis, come by for a visit. The store hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 A.M.-6 P.M. Central time.
