Have you seen a GI Joe Doll like this?

[quercus21]

I was wondering if anyone could help me in identifying this doll. Upon my step grandfathers death I received it. He was a Chaplin in WWII (Normandy - Germany). From my understanding, he had it with him during his service. Some people said it might have been used as a "ice" breaker with the children he encounter. I was just looking for a bit more history and proper storage for it. Right now it is in a clean/dry place. Also, has anyone else come across a doll like this?

The head, hands and boots are made from wood. Looks like hand carved and painted/stained(?). The uniform seems like it is made from wool, like the military issue cloth. The body seems to be cloth of some kind. On the back of him is a tag made from cloth that looks like it was typed on which states GI Joe and something in French. "un soldat americain votre ami et votre allie".
I have found out that it translate to: "a soldier americain your friend and your ally"

Thanks
Kaj

 

[CityGirlintheCountry]

I have no information, but that is COOL!!!

 

[conny63malies]

looks handcarved

 

[chickened]

I believe they were given out to the French by the Salvation Army or Red Cross after WWII I cannot remember which.

 

[NYboy]

There are GI Joe collectors, some from the 60s go for big $$.

 

[punk-a-doodle]

Um, hey, Joe? You've got something, right there. I think you may have sat in something.


Odd tag placement aside, this guy is so neat looking.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Quote:
I agree
It's probably one of a kind

 

[desertdarlene]

Ever see that show History Detectives on PBS? I think you should contact them about this doll if Googling doesn't help. I will look around and see if I can find anything.

ETA: I did find that the GI Joe action figure started in the 60s, but the term GI Joe started around the time of WWII.

 

[quercus21]

Thank you everyone for your input. I wrote away to the Red Cross and Salvation Army to see what they have to say.
In the past I have tried GI Joe collector sites with no results (some not replying and some having no idea). I recent wrote to a "Toy Hall of Fame", which I haven't received a response.
Yea, I would say it is hand carved and hand painted.
I'll try the PBS History Channel next. Write them a email and see what happens.

Have a Happy & Safe Holiday today

 

[country lady]

That is a great piece. I would contact Antiques Roadshow. It may have been made just for your step-grandfather by a friend. Even so, it is unique. Don't you just love the mystery of it, though?