Awesome work, Jeffrey, wonderfully done! I had the honor to contribute to the project as well, making the caligae the soldier might have worn.

Firstly, I admit to knowing next to nothing about the arms and armor of this era, but I do know a little about the social structure. Don't jump to the conclusion that this individual was a soldier. He may have been a private guard or part of a patrician household guard. An ex-legionnaire? Perhaps. The wealthy of this period very often were accompanied by guards and the location on the beach certainly might indicate that he was fleeing with his master. As a freeman, he could have had a side business of woodworking and when the lid popped on Vesuvius, he grabbed the most important thing around, his means of livelihood.

Sure, I know this is conjecture but just trying to make a case for something other than a soldier.

Good point & I agree that there is no definite proof of that man having been a soldier, but the likelihood is certainly high. What was found on him agrees with other contemporary finds from military sites, surviving statues, reliefs etc. as well as ancient written sources.

Oh, my, that is a fantastic piece of work Jeffrey.

Having spent a few weeks in Pompeii and Rome - and having family in the museum business - the exhibit at the ROM was a bit disappointing. It seemed rather poorly organized and poorly arranged.

No reflection on your sword, though Jeffrey.

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Jeffrey this is spectacular work...

Amazing
Excellent
inspirational
Your make teaching with your sword
Thanks