Bob,
Good point. I 'spect that why many original photos of the era showed the SOP to be "Paint a 'kn big white star on every horizontal and vertical surface that will accept the standard 44" template..."
The use of US stars on Commonwealth and Free European Allies equipment post Jun '44 effectively said "if it's a star, its ours, if not engage to destroy.'
Which is quite understandable, as many Brit and Yank soldiers had been in uniform for less than 12 months and never seen anger (save for the lack of beer at the pub, or the latest Berry Grable flick being full...)
It worked. Therefore, it can't be stupid!![]()