EX-POW BULLETIN the official voice of the American Ex-Prisoners of War 501(c)3 Veterans Service Organization Volume 77 www.axpow.org Number 1/2/3

January/February/March 2020

We exist to help those who cannot help themselves

Capture of the USS Pueblo

January-March 2020 table of contents FREEDOM! The release of U.S. POWs began in Hanoi on February 12, 1973 as part Officers/Directors 4 of the Paris peace settlement. The return of U.S. POWs began when CEO 5 North Vietnam released 142 of 591 U.S. prisoners at Hanoi’s Gia Lam Ownership Statement 5 Airport. Part of what was called Operation Homecoming. The first 20 Medsearch 6 POWs arrived to a hero’s welcome at Travis Air Force Base in California Legislative 10 on February 14. Operation Homecoming was completed on March 29, Andersonville 11 1973, when the last of 591 U.S. prisoners were released and returned NamPOW 13 to the United States. POW/MIA 15 Civilian 17 After the surrender of tens of thousands of American troops during the Events 20 Battle of Bataan, many were sent to Cabanatuan prison camp following News 20 the Bataan Death March. The Japanese transferred most of the From a Boy… 24 prisoners to other areas, leaving just over 500 American and other New members 28 Allied POWs and civilians in the prison. On Jan. 30, 1945, United States Contributions 29 Army Rangers, Alamo Scouts, and Filipino guerrillas liberated more Taps/Chaplain 30 than 500 from the POW camp. Voluntary Funding 34 On January 9, 1945, the U.S. Sixth Army waded ashore at Lingayen Gulf and began moving south. During their trek, troops liberated American and other Allied POWs in several camps. One of the most spectacular liberation efforts was that conducted by the 6th Ranger Publisher Battalion at Cabanatuan. A Ranger task force, assisted by Filipino PNC Milton M Moore Jr guerrillas, penetrated deep into Japanese territory and, after crawling 2965 Sierra Bermeja more than a mile on their bellies, attacked Cabanatuan prison and Sierra Vista, AZ 85650 freed some 500 POWs, bringing them 20 miles to safety. Nearer Manila, (520) 249-7122 elements of the 1st Cavalry assaulted the campus of Santo Tomas [email protected] University and freed more than 3,500 civilian internees.

Editor At Bilibid Prison, on February 4, 1945, Commandant Ebiko presented the camp’s chairman with a document freeing the internees. The Cheryl Cerbone Japanese were not seen after that. A patrol of the 37th Infantry broke 23 Cove View Drive into the prison thinking it was a Japanese ammunition dump; they South Yarmouth, MA 02664 found 700 military prisoners and 500 civilian prisoners. (508) 394-5250 [email protected] AND CAPTURE On January 23, 1968 USS PUEBLO (AGER-2) was attacked in Deadline for the Apr-June 2020 international waters by North Korean forces. Eighty-two surviving issue is March 31, 2020 crewmembers were captured and held prisoner for eleven months. On Please send all materials to the the cover: Original oil painting by artist Richard DeRosset for USS editor at the above address. PUEBLO crewmember Tom Massie. North Korean hull and aircraft have their actual numbers of the attacking forces.

EX-POW Bulletin (ISSN 0161-7451) is published quarterly (four times annually) by the American Ex-Prisoners of War, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445. Periodical postage paid at Arlington, TX and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: send address changes to EX-POW Bulletin, AXPOW Headquarters, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445. Founded April 14, 1942, in Albuquerque, NM, then known as Bataan Relief Organization, Washington State non- profit corporation, “American Ex-Prisoners of War”, October 11, 1949, recorded as Document No. 133762, Roll 1, Page 386-392. NONPROFIT CORPORATION. Nationally Chartered August 10, 1982. Appearance in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the American Ex-Prisoners of War of the product or service advertised. The publisher reserves the right to decline or discontinue any such advertisement.

© 2020 American Ex-Prisoners of War axpow board of directors

National Headquarters PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445 (817) 649-2979 [email protected]

National Commander ~ Robert Certain 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, Apt 1801, San Antonio, TX 78245 (770) 639-3313 [email protected]

operations board of directors Edward “Ted” Cadwallader Sally Morgan Elk Grove, CA Grand Prairie, TX Chief Executive Officer (916) 685-5369 (972) 896-7252 [email protected] [email protected]

David Eberly Jim 'Moe' Moyer Williamsburg, VA Lake Wales, FL (757) 508-8453 (407) 448-1181 [email protected] [email protected]

Pam Warner Eslinger Mary Schantag Chief Operations Officer Hammon, OK Branson, MO Clydie J Morgan (580) 821-1526 (417) 336-4232 PO Box 3445 [email protected] [email protected] Arlington TX 76007-3445 (817) 300-2840 - Cell Ben Garrido Charles A. Susino [email protected] Tulsa, OK Piscataway, NJ (951) 313-9838 (732)221-0073 [email protected] [email protected] Chief Financial Officer Marsha M Coke Alan Marsh Jan Williams 2710 Charon Court Lizella, GA Guthrie, OK Grand Prairie TX 75052 (478) 951-9247 (580) 821-2376 (817) 649-2979 – Office [email protected] [email protected] (817) 723-3996 – Cell [email protected] Milton ‘Skip’ Moore Sierra Vista, AZ (520) 249-7122 [email protected] from the CEO Cheryl Cerbone

Happy New Year! My dad (front row, far right) and his crew As we complete the second decade of the 21st century, I think about what my mother used to say about the My personal project this year is directed to the largest 20th century. “Think of all the changes that have taken single segment of our membership – Surviving place. And how fast these changes happened.” They Spouses. To make sure they don’t fall through the couldn’t imagine that much more could be in store. cracks after the death of their ex-POW husbands. To make sure they can financially survive on the My grandfather was a Marine during World War I. The compensation they receive after the death of their planes of his service looked like Snoopy’s Sopworth ex-POW husbands. A way to alleviate the second part Camel as he dive-bombed the Red Baron. My dad was of this project is to increase the Dependency and in the Army Air Corps. His plane – the ONLY plane I Indemnity Compensation they are entitled to. knew growing up – was the B-24 Liberator with a crew Congress has stalled on this for many years now. of 10. (See the picture). Today, there are crews on Current 2020 DIC figures are $1,340 a month…putting the ground directing drones. the recipients smack in the middle of the federal poverty level. This is unacceptable and we will – again When I was in college, our computer was the size of – be reminding Congress at our March testimony that a large classroom. Today it is on my wrist and infinitely the most vulnerable of our members deserve better. more powerful. The first part of this year’s project is easier. If you Antibiotics make our lives longer and better. know of a widow – a friend, neighbor – reach out to Nuclear weaponry makes our lives scarier. her. Companionship is so important to both health and Television and the Internet can be both. wellness. When I was younger, I marveled at the number of AXPOW members who married each other I am an incurable optimist. Each January I make my after their spouses passed away. But then I realized resolutions (breaking them by February) and look that the bonds of friendship and shared experiences forward to the future. I hope each of you can feel the that held ex-POWs together also holds their family wonder and the hope that a new year brings. members together. And who knows the POW experience better? The American Ex-Prisoners of War is on an exciting trajectory right now. Our education committee has For the possibilities that 2020 holds, I wish you the projects to bring your experience to classrooms around best. And give you my best. the country. We are working with our National POW Museum at Andersonville National Historic Site to ensure your story is never forgotten. And helping to fund the Traveling Museum “Victory from Within” gives Cheryl the POW reality a strong, powerful voice.

NOTICE: AXPOW ANNUAL MEETING WILL BE HELD AT THE ARLINGTON, TEXAS HILTON. APRIL 25, 2020. ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND. pow medsearch nso Marsha Coke, Chairman Ruth Powell, Director e-mail: [email protected] 665 NC Hwy 121 PO Box 3445 Greenville, NC 27834 Arlington, TX 76007-3445 781-296-6307 cell (817) 649-2979 [email protected]

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Overview annually, including 300,000 hip bone formation. Bone loss is most Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a fractures, and approximately rapid in the first few years after disease characterized by low bone 700,000 vertebral fractures, menopause but persists into the mass and structural deterioration 250,000 wrist fractures, and more postmenopausal years. of bone tissue, leading to bone than 300,000 fractures at other Osteoporosis develops when bone fragility and an increased sites. resorption occurs too quickly or if susceptibility to fractures of the replacement occurs too slowly. hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well Estimated national direct Osteoporosis is more likely to as women suffer from osteoporosis, expenditures (hospitals and nursing develop if you did not reach optimal a disease that can be prevented homes) for osteoporosis and bone mass during your bone and treated. related fractures is $14 billion each building years. year. Facts and Figures Risk Factors Osteoporosis is a major public What is Bone? Certain factors are linked to the health threat for 44 million Bone is living, growing tissue. It is development of osteoporosis or Americans. made mostly of collagen, a protein contribute to an individual’s that provides a soft framework, and likelihood of developing the In the U.S. today, 10 million calcium phosphate, a mineral that disease. These are called “risk individuals already have adds strength and hardens the factors.” Many people with osteoporosis and 34 million more framework. This combination of osteoporosis have several of these have low bone mass, placing them collagen and calcium makes bone risk factors, but others who develop at increased risk for this disease. strong yet flexible to withstand osteoporosis have no identified risk stress. More than 99% of the factors. There are some risk factors One out of every two women and body’s calcium is contained in the that you cannot change, and others one in four men over 50 will have bones and teeth. The remaining 1% that you can. an osteoporosis-related fracture in is found in the blood. their lifetime. Risk factors you can’t Throughout your lifetime, old bone change: is removed (resorption) and new More than 2 million American men Gender - Your chances of bone is added to the skeleton suffer from osteoporosis, and developing osteoporosis are (formation). During childhood and millions more are at risk. Each greater if you are a woman. Women teenage years, new bone is added year, 80,000 men suffer a hip have less bone tissue and lose bone faster than old bone is removed. As fracture and one-third of these men more rapidly than men because of a result, bones become larger, die within a year. the changes involved in heavier, and denser. Osteoporosis has studied as a long- menopause. term effect of the prisoner of war Age - the older you are, the greater Bone formation continues at a pace experience. your risk of osteoporosis. Your faster than resorption until peak bones become less dense and bone mass (maximum bone density Osteoporosis can strike any age. weaker as you age. and strength) is reached around Body size - Small, thin-boned age 30. After age 30, bone Osteoporosis is responsible for women are at greater risk. more than 1.5 million fractures resorption slowly begins to exceed medsearch, cont’d… and adolescence, when the Alcohol. Regular consumption of 2 skeleton is growing rapidly, and to 3 ounces a day of alcohol may during pregnancy and be damaging to the skeleton, even Ethnicity - Caucasian and Asian breastfeeding. Postmenopausal in young women and men. Those women are at highest risk. women and older men also need to who drink heavily are more prone African-American and Latino consume more calcium. This may to bone loss and fractures, both women have a lower but be caused by inadequate amounts because of poor nutrition as well as significant risk. of vitamin D, which is necessary for increased risk of falling. Family history - Susceptibility to intestinal absorption of calcium. fracture may be, in part, Also, as you age, your body Medications that cause bone loss. hereditary. People whose parents becomes less efficient at absorbing The long-term use of have a history of fractures also calcium and other nutrients. Older glucocorticoids (medications seem to have reduced bone mass adults also are more likely to have prescribed for a wide range of and may be at risk for fractures. chronic medical problems and to diseases, including arthritis,

use medications that may impair asthma, Crohn’s disease, lupus, Risk factors you can change: calcium absorption. At age 70 or and other diseases of the lungs, Sex hormones: older, the recommended daily kidneys, and liver) can lead to a abnormal absence of menstrual dosage of calcium is 1200 mg. loss of bone density and fractures. periods (amenorrhea), low Other forms of drug therapy that estrogen level (menopause), and Vitamin D. Vitamin D plays an can cause bone loss include long- low testosterone level in men. important role in calcium term treatment with certain Anorexia. absorption and in bone health. It is antiseizure drugs, and bar- A lifetime diet low in calcium and synthesized in the skin through biturates; gonadotropin releasing vitamin D. exposure to sunlight. While many hormone (GnRH) analogs used to Use of certain medications. people are able to obtain enough treat endometriosis; excessive use An inactive lifestyle or extended vitamin D naturally, studies show of aluminum-containing antacids; bed rest. that vitamin D production certain cancer treatments; and Cigarette smoking. decreases in the elderly, in people excessive thyroid hormone. It is Excessive use of alcohol. who are housebound, and during important to discuss the use of the winter. These individuals may these drugs with your physician, Prevention require vitamin D supplementation and not to stop or alter your To reach optimal peak bone mass to ensure a daily intake of between medication dose on your own. and continue building new bone 400 to 800 IU of vitamin D. Massive tissue as you get older, there are doses are not recommended. Prevention Medications. Various several factors you should consider: medications are available for the Exercise. Like muscle, bone is living prevention, as well as treatment, Calcium. An inadequate supply of tissue that responds to exercise by of osteoporosis. See section calcium over the lifetime is thought becoming stronger. The best entitled “Therapeutic Medications.” to play a significant role in exercise for your bones is weight- contributing to the development of bearing exercise, that forces you to Symptoms osteoporosis. Many published work against gravity. These Osteoporosis is often called the studies show that low calcium exercises include walking, hiking, “silent disease” because bone loss intakes appear to be associated jogging, stair-climbing, weight occurs without symptoms. People with low bone mass, rapid bone training, tennis, and dancing. may not know that they have loss, and high fracture rates. osteoporosis until their bones National nutrition surveys have Smoking. Smoking is bad for your become so weak that a sudden shown that many people consume bones as well as for your heart and strain, bump, or fall causes a hip less than half the amount of lungs. Women who smoke have fracture or a vertebra to collapse. calcium recommended to build and lower levels of estrogen compared Collapsed vertebra may initially be maintain healthy bones. Depending to nonsmokers and frequently go felt or seen in the form of severe upon how much calcium you get through menopause earlier. back pain, loss of height, or spinal each day from food, you may need Postmenopausal women who deformities such as kyphosis, or to take a calcium supplement. smoke may require higher doses of severely stooped posture. hormone replacement therapy and Calcium needs change during one’s may have more side effects. Detection lifetime. The body’s demand for Smokers also may absorb less Following a comprehensive medical calcium is greater during childhood calcium from their diets. assessment, your doctor may medsearch, cont’d… health. While exercise is good for when wet. Use plastic or carpet someone with osteoporosis, it runners when possible. should not put any sudden or recommend that you have your excessive strain on your bones. As Indoors. Keep rooms free of clutter, bone mass measured. Bone mineral extra insurance against fractures, especially on floors; keep floor density (BMD) tests measure bone your doctor can recommend surfaces smooth but not slippery; density in the spine, wrist, and/or specific exercises to strengthen and wear supportive, low-heeled shoes hip (the most common sites of support your back. even at home; avoid walking in fractures due to osteoporosis), socks, stockings, or slippers; be while others measure bone in the Therapeutic Medications. The goal sure carpets and area rugs have heel or hand. These tests are of pharmacological therapy is to skid-proof backing or are tacked to painless, noninvasive, and safe. reduce the risk of fractures. the floor; be sure stairwells are well Medications to treat osteoporosis lit and that stairs have handrails on Bone density tests can: are categorized as either both sides; install grab bars on Detect low bone density before a antiresorptive or anabolic. bathroom walls near tub, shower, fracture occurs. Antiresorptive medications and toilet; use a rubber bath mat Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis primarily decrease the rate of bone in shower or tub; keep a flashlight if you have already fractured. resorption while anabolic with fresh batteries beside your Predict your chances of fracturing medications increase bone bed; if using a step stool for hard in the future. formation more than bone to reach areas, use a sturdy one Determine your rate of bone loss resorption. While several with a handrail and wide steps; add and/or monitor the effects of medications have overlapping ceiling fixtures to rooms lit by treatment if the test is conducted indications, it is important to note lamps. at intervals of a year or more. that not all osteoporosis

medications are approved by the Consider purchasing a cordless Treatment Food and Drug Administration phone so that you don’t have to A comprehensive osteoporosis (FDA). rush to answer the phone when it treatment program includes a focus rings or you can call for help if you on proper nutrition, exercise, and Fall Prevention do fall. safety issues to prevent falls that Fall Prevention is a special concern may result in fractures. In addition, for men and women with your physician may prescribe a osteoporosis. Falls can increase the medication to slow or stop bone likelihood of fracturing a bone in loss, increase bone density, and the hip, wrist, spine or other part The NIH Osteoporosis and Related reduce fracture risk. of the skeleton. In addition to Bone Diseases ~ National Resource environmental factors, falls can Center is supported by the National Nutrition. The foods we eat contain also be caused by impaired vision Institute of Arthritis and a variety of vitamins, minerals, and and/or balance, chronic diseases Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases other important nutrients that help that impair mental or physical with contributions from the keep our bodies healthy. All of functioning, and certain National Institute of Child Health these nutrients are needed in a medications, such as sedatives and and Human Development, National balanced proportion. In particular, antidepressants. Institute of Dental and Craniofacial calcium and vitamin D are needed Research, National Institute of for strong bones as well as for your Some tips to help eliminate the Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney heart, muscles, and nerves to environmental factors that lead to Diseases, NIH Office of Research function properly. (See Prevention falls include: on Women’s Health, DHHS Office section for recommended amounts on Women’s Health, and National of calcium.) Outdoors. Use a cane or walker for Institute on Aging. added stability; wear rubber-soled Exercise. Exercise is an important shoes for traction; walk on grass 2 AMS Circle, Bethesda, MD 20892 component of an osteoporosis when sidewalks are slippery; in (800) 624-BONE or (202) 223-0344 prevention and treatment program. winter, carry salt or kitty litter to [email protected] Exercise not only improves your sprinkle on slippery sidewalks; be bone health, but it increases careful on highly polished floors muscle strength, coordination, and that become slick and dangerous balance and leads to better overall

PRESUMPTIVE SERVICE 15. ATYPICAL ANXIETY DISORDER This is a category that is used for diagnosis when the affected CONNECTED DISABILITIES individual appears to have an anxiety disorder that does not meet the Public Law 97-37 criteria for entry into any of the other known anxiety disorders. by William Paul Skelton, Ill, MD F.A.C.P. 16. DEPRESSIVE NEUROSIS/DYSTHYMIC DISORDER All ex-POWs should keep these. Whenever you open your claim, Characterized by depressive periods in which the patient feels sad take them with you and make sure the adjudication officer sees them and/or down and has a loss of interest in the usual activities that and have him read them! Make sure he knows all about them. Tell cause pleasure or involvement in usual pastimes. him your own story as it relates to your problem..... 17. PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY 1. ARTHRITIS, TRAUMATIC Literally Greek for the suffering of nerves outside of the brain and Also known as articular trauma. spinal cord.

2. AVITAMINOSIS 18. IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME The total lack of vitamins in the diet. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of the intestines that leads to crampy pain, gas, bloating, and changes in 3. BERIBERI bowel habits. Caused by a severe lack of vitamin B1 (thiamine) in the diet. 19. PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE 4. DYSENTERY, CHRONIC A peptic ulcer is a sore or hole in the lining of the stomach or A disease characterized by frequent and watery stools, usually with duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). . blood and mucus, and accompanied by rectal and abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration. 20. CIRRHOSIS Scar tissue replaces normal, healthy tissue, blocking the flow of 5. FROSTBITE blood through the organ and preventing it from working as it should. The actual freezing of tissue. 21. STROKE & COMPLICATIONS 6. HELMINTHIASIS A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly Infection with any type of worms that parasitize the human. interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, spilling blood into the spaces surrounding brain cells. 7. MALNUTRITION Merely means bad nutrition. 22. HEART & COMPLICATIONS Heart disease includes atherosclerotic heart disease, and hypertensive 8. PELLAGRA vascular disease (including hypertensive heart disease, and It is caused by a virtual lack of vitamin B3 (niacin) in the diet. hypertension).

9. ANY OTHER NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY 23. OSTEOPOROSIS The lack of protein and calories in the diet generally produces no Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more lasting side effects. likely to break.

10. PSYCHOSIS Disability compensation is a monetary benefit paid to A generic term for any of the insanities. Veterans who are determined by VA to be disabled by an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during 11. PANIC DISORDER active military service. These disabilities are considered Characterized by discrete periods of apprehension or fear. to be service connected. To be eligible for compensation, the Veteran must have been separated or discharged 12. GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER under conditions other than dishonorable.

13. OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER Monthly disability compensation varies with the degree This may be either obsessions or compulsions. of disability and the number of eligible dependents. Veterans with certain severe disabilities may be eligible 14. POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER for additional special monthly compensation (SMC). The re-experiencing of a trauma of a past recognized stress or that Disability compensation benefits are not subject to federal can produce symptoms of distress. or state income tax.

POW/MIA Accounting Agency to these environmental hazards (DPAA) to continue its important occurred during military service. Legislative work despite periodic government shutdowns. This agency is We have encouraged our AXPOW responsible for locating and members for decades to preserve identifying the remains of service their experience as a POW through men and women of the armed the National Archives and other forces lost in action during war means. We encourage our times. Their work is so critically members to get behind Bill HR important for families to find 2385, recently passed in the House, closure of a lost loved one. While which would permit VA to establish this Bill is in its beginning stages, a grant program to conduct it is one that is dear to our hearts national veterans’ cemetery since most of our POWs first were research and produce educational Charles Anthony Susino identified as MIAs. materials for the Veterans Legacy 951 Gates Ave. Program (VLP). It expands on the Piscataway, NJ 08854 The VA has maintained a long current program, which focuses (732)463-8355 standing focus on reducing only on large educational (732)221-0073-Cell veterans’ suicide. While there have institutions to include smaller [email protected] been many reports with staggering groups that wish to engage with VA numbers of daily suicides, progress in memorializing veterans. has been slower than hoped. Bill There is never lack of excitement H.R. 3495, Improve Well-Being for On the first Congressional day in Washington. While based on the Veterans Act, also known as the following Veterans’ Day, the House high level news, the public is left Improve Act has been introduced passed the following Bills and sent with the impression that nothing is to help those veterans who have to the Senate for action. Of course, happening in Washington except not reached out to the VA for help. with the House passage, the impeachment hearings, but that is This proposed community based probability of passage of these Bills not the case. This legislative program is hoping to supplement is much higher than other proposed bulletin gives us some hope that the VA’s efforts. Bills so contacting your Senator is Washington has not totally very helpful to the cause. forgotten the needs of our men and Each conflict has exposed our men • women who have served our H.R. 3224: The Deborah and women of the military service country. Sampson Act to health dangers. Sadly, the • H.R. 4162: GI Bill Planning government has been slow, often Flying the American flag means so Act of 2019 decades, to recognize and • much to all Americans, especially H.R. 3996: VA Design-Build acknowledge the various those who have been in the Construction Enhancement Act of exposures. Agent Orange is a great military. On November 7th, it was 2019 example which was highlighted a proud day when the President • H.R. 4625: Protect the GI following the Vietnam War and signed the Bill which orders the Bill Act continues to be reported on. daily display of the POW/MIA flag • H.R. 1424: Fallen Warrior Senate Bill 2950, the Veterans Burn at all prominent federal buildings, Battlefield Cross Memorial Act Pit Exposure Recognition Act of cemeteries, military installations, • H.R. 4477: Reducing High 2019, was introduced to recognize medical facilities, and US post Risk to Veterans and Veterans that veterans who served in Iraq, offices. The country must not Services Act Afghanistan, Djibouti, Kuwait, forget the 10’s of thousands of men • H.R. 4771: VA Tele-Hearing Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and women who’ve served our Modernization Act Qatar, and the United Arab nation in uniform are unaccounted • H.R. 4360: VA Emirates were exposed to more for or listed as POW/MIA and this Overpayment Accountability Act than 45 toxins, chemicals, and action raises public awareness. • H.R. 4356: Protecting airborne hazards. It is Families of Fallen Service members disappointing this bill would not Congressman Lynch for introducing Act grant a presumption of service H.R. 4879, Defense POW/MIA connection; however it would help Accounting Agency Support Act, Debra and I wish you all a healthy veterans prove that any disability which would ensure the Defense and happy 2020. or illness resulting from exposure

individuals will temporarily serve as Acting Superintendent to ensure Andersonville the continuation of park operations. I have the honor of serving in this position until mid-February.

Since my arrival in October, I have been struck by the many powerful stories of prisoners of war (POWs) that are preserved through the National Prisoner of War Museum. In exploring the museum, and watching POWs share what they are hopeful that this project will be and their families went through on implemented in the next 1-2 years. behalf of our country, visitors We are also developing better understand the sacrifices management strategies for the made for the freedoms we enjoy historic trees in the cemetery, today. The historic grounds where many of which are reaching the end 13,000 POWs perished brings the of their life span, to ensure we power of place to the visitor’s maximize grave space while still Andersonville NHS experience and amplifies that maintaining the cultural landscape 496 Cemetery Road understanding, as does and scenic dignity of the site. Andersonville, GA 31711 Andersonville National Cemetery, where veterans of every American This year, the park will recognize (229) 924-0343 conflict save the War of 1812 rest its 50th anniversary. When Acting Superintendent in eternal honor. I am grateful for Congress acted to establish the site Barbara Hatcher the opportunity to serve at such an on October 16, 1970, they tasked [email protected] extraordinary site. the park with a mission “to provide an understanding of the overall My background as a Civil Engineer, prisoner-of-war story of the Civil working for the National Park War; to interpret the role of Service regional office and prisoner-of-war camps in history; stationed at Great Smoky to commemorate the sacrifice of Mountains National Park, will Americans who lost their lives in enable me to contribute to several such camps, and to preserve the major ongoing projects at monuments located therein”. Our Andersonville NHS. One of the most 2014 Foundation document stated important upcoming projects the park’s purpose is “to preserve focuses on Andersonville National the resources and stories that Cemetery, which provides an illustrate the experiences of important service to veterans and American prisoners of war their families. At our annual burial throughout U.S. history and to rate, it should be 20-30 years from educate the public about the Greetings to the members of the now before the cemetery is filled. deadliest ground of the Civil War.” American Ex-Prisoners of War! But large sections of the cemetery Andersonville NHS is the only Please allow me to introduce are currently not usable due to national park established as a myself. I am Barbara Hatcher, steep slopes, drainage issues, and memorial to all American POWs and currently the Acting Superintendent other factors. As a result we are at has the only national museum at Andersonville National Historic risk of running out of usable grave solely dedicated to interpreting the Site (NHS). Charles Sellars, who space in the near future. To American POW experience. It also served as Superintendent since address this, we are planning a includes the only still active 2014, has accepted another project to regrade a large open national cemetery managed by the position at a national park in section of the cemetery so we can National Park Service. It is a unique Kentucky. Until his now vacant continue to provide burial services and powerful place, forever set position is filled, one or more to veterans and their families. We aside for the benefit of all andersonville, cont’d… National Cemetery with wreaths on are not able to host the exhibit. To Saturday, December 14th. Last facilitate displaying the exhibit at year, the park received over 15,000 additional venues and thus sharing wreaths, enough to cover about the American POW experience with Americans. We will recognize the 75% of graves in the cemetery. a much greater audience, the park 50-year anniversary of the park This year, we hope to receive at is planning a project to modify the with special events and programs least 10,000 wreaths. The serene traveling exhibit by replacing the on the first Saturday of each beauty and honor of thousands of artifacts with replicas and/or month, including a “Civilian Staff wreaths placed on the graves of reducing the size of the exhibit. If Ride”, museum tours, cemetery those who sacrificed for their you know of any potential venue tours, former POW guest speakers, country is a heartfelt and moving for this traveling version of the and more. If you are interested in display, and we invite anyone in the National POW Museum, which coming to speak at the park and area to come and participate in this includes artifacts, former POW oral share your POW experience, please special tribute to our fallen military. history interviews and other contact Jennifer Hopkins at 229- Contact Charles Barr at 229-924- displays, please contact Charles 924-0343 ext. 201 or 0343 ext. 112 or Barr at 229-924-0343 ext. 112 or [email protected]. [email protected] for more [email protected]. information. If I can be of any assistance in my The Victory from Within Traveling role as Acting Superintendent, Exhibit has been on display at the please feel free to contact me at Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge, 229-924-0343 ext. 105 or Louisiana since September. In [email protected]. I look January 2020, the exhibit is forward to working with the scheduled to move to Georgia American Ex-Prisoners of War as Southwestern University in we enter a new year full of events Americus, Georgia, where it will be and activities to honor and displayed in the library through remember American POWs at March. Park staff continue to search Andersonville NHS. for venues for April to September In partnership with Wreaths Across 2020. Due to the exhibit’s large size America, the Civil Air Patrol, (1200 square feet) and inclusion of PHOTO CREDITS: NPS and NPS Bennett Trucking, and the Taylor artifacts that require very specific (Jody Mays) Foundation, the park will honor temperature and humidity those buried in Andersonville conditions, many interested venues

VIRTUAL REALITY LETS USERS EXPERIENCE CIVIL WAR COMBAT LIKE NEVER BEFORE American Battlefield Trust’s new series, Civil War 1864: A Virtual Reality Experience, uses immersive storytelling and multisensory techniques to bring the past to life

Experience Civil War combat like never before with the American Battlefield Trust’s new four-part series Civil War 1864: A Virtual Reality Experience. This immersive storytelling approach will put you back in time as you navigate in 360 degrees how it may have looked, felt and sounded to be a Civil War soldier. Viewable in a variety of formats — from desktop computer to mobile device to virtual reality headset — these short films take you inside a Confederate sniper’s lair, into a Union defensive position, along on a reconnaissance patrol and inside a Union field hospital. “We constantly strive to bring people closer to historical events in hopes that they can better understand or even feel them” said Garry Adelman, the Trust’s chief historian. “The immersive nature of virtual reality can help us approximate the personal experience of Civil War soldiers like nothing else has before.” The American Battlefield Trust, decided to pursue a VR experience because of its unprecedented ability to put the viewer into a scenario. In each video, the action takes place in 360˚ surrounding the viewer with action, along with sound alerts to indicate where significant action occurs, or pop-up facts appear. Those using a virtual reality headset or cardboard viewer can take best advantage of its directional sound, while mobile devices enable users to pinch-and-zoom for closer look at specific details. Learn more about Civil War 1864: A Virtual Reality Experience at www.battlefields.org/virtualreality

a POW in China from 8-21-67 to Ray Vohden, 4-3-65; Capt. 3-15-73. Three other A6A pilots on "Smitty" Harris, 4-4-65; Lt. Phil namPOW that same mission became the first Butler, 4-20-65; Capt. Bob Peel, Vietnam era U.S. military to die in 5-31-65; Lt. J.B. McKamey, 6-2- news China. They were: Lcdr. Jim 65; Maj. Larry Guarino; Capt. Paul Buckley, Lt. (j.g.) Dain Scott and Kari, 6-20-65; and Cdr. Jeremiah Lt. (j.g.) J.F Trembley. One foreign Denton, 7-18-65 along with his national, Mr. George Watt, was Radar Intercept Officer, Lt. (j.g.) released from China during William Tschudy. operation homecoming. The circumstances of his capture are The first POW to escape was Army unknown. A total of five captives Captain Isaac Camacho, (Ret) were released from China at the (then an E7). He was held from end of the Cold War. 11-24-63 to 7-13-65. Camacho was the first American POW to get The first military POW of the the word out to military intelligence Vietnam Conflict was then Major about early Cuban involvement in Larry Bailey, USA. He was shot the war. Isaac was brutally down while a passenger in a C47 interrogated by the Cubans. Isaac flying in Laos March 23, 1961. He knew the Cubans planned to kill was released 8-15-62. So, he's the him. He was lucky to escape before first U.S. military POW for Laos and they could accomplish their plan. Southeast Asia. Bailey was lucky. Army Col. Nick Rowe, (then a 1st The other 7 U.S. servicemen Lt.) was captured the month before aboard his C47 all perished. Larry (October 29, 1963) but didn't make Mac’s Facts by Captain J.M. was the only one wearing a good his escape until five years McGrath, USN (Ret) parachute. He jumped clear. later on 12/31/1968. Nick is Those seven; one Army Warrant deceased. He was killed on 4-21- The Vietnam Conflict is officially Officer, three USAF Lts, three USAF 89 in a Communist insurgency recognized by the U.S. Department enlisted are listed as the first to die ambush in the Philippines. A total of Defense as occuring from July 8, in the Vietnam War. The first POW of 32 military POWs escaped during 1959 to May 15, 1975 (the SS for South Vietnam was Army Sgt. the war: 19 Army, 1 USAF, 10 Mayaguez incident in Kampuchea, (E4) George Fryett. He was Marines, and 2 Navy. 30 men Cambodia). captured 12-24-1961. He was escaped from SVN. Two Navy released 6-24-62. pilots (Lieutenant Charles POWs in China: The first two Klusmann and Lt. (j.g.) Dieter civilian POWs of the post-Korea The first pilot captured in North Dengler) were the only military cold war era were John T. Downey Vietnam, Aug 5, 1964 during the men to escape from Laos. There and Richard Fecteau, captured by first raids of the Gulf of Tonkin were no successful escapes from the Chinese 11-29-1952. Downey Incident was Lt. (j.g.) Everett Cambodia, North Vietnam or China was released with the majority of Alvarez. Ev was released Feb 12, despite many unsuccessful the POWs during Operation 1973 after eight and a half years in attempts. Homecoming, 3-12-73 after more captivity. He retired as a Navy than 20 years in prison. Fecteau commander and served in the The longest held POW in South was released after 19 years in Reagan administration as Deputy Vietnam was Army Col. Floyd solitary on 12-13-71. They were Director of the Peace Corps and Thompson (then a Capt.). Floyd flying an infiltrator recovery Deputy Administrator of the was a POW from 3-26-64 to 3-16- mission (C-47) when shot down. Veterans Administration. The first 73, 10 days short of nine years as They are now retired from the CIA to be killed in NVN was Navy Lt. a POW. Capt. Thompson is the and have been highly decorated. (j.g.) Richard Sather, flying an A1H longest held POW in American Col. Phil Smith, USAF, (then a Skyraider, shot down 8-5-64. history. Lt (j.g.) Everett Alvarez Captain) flying a F104C, joined the Other early 1965 captured pilots in was the longest held in NVN. The China crowd 9-20-65 to 3-15-73. NVN (in order of shoot down) were: first Cambodia POWs were: Army Cdr. Bob Flynn, USN (then a Lt.) Lcdr. Bob Shumaker, 2-11-65; E-4 Ronald J. Lehman and Army flying an A6A, wasn't going to be Capt. Hayden Lockhart, 3-2-65; E-3 Jerry A. Tester. They were left out of the fun in China. He was Capt. Scotty Morgan, 4-3-65; Lcdr. captured while crewing a Navy

nampows, cont’d… repatriation in 1973. 431 military POWs, Inc. is not associated with NAM-POWs are alive as of today, nor does it represent any office of 11/27/2019. Almost 500 the Secretary of Defense. Contact: riverine boat. They were held from pilots/aircrew were captured. 73 [email protected] or see May 20, 1968 to June 10, 1968 and military POWs died in captivity. our web page at: released to the Australian consulate 58,213 U.S. Military died in the www.nampows.org. in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Vietnam Conflict. Approximately 1,587 (as of 11/22/2019) military Note: There were five early The last military shoot casualties are still unaccounted for Vietnam captives, before it was down/capture was Navy Lcdr. from the Vietnam War. known as the Vietnam Conflict: Alfred Agnew, shot down while “On 14 June 1954, U.S. Army Pvts. flying a reconnaissance flight in a The last military man to be released Doyle Morgan and Leonard Sroveck Navy RA5C Vigilante over NVN on was Maj. Bob White, USA (then a and Air Force Airmen Ciro Salas, December 28, 1972. His back Capt.). He was captured in SVN Giacomo Appice, and Jerry Schuller seater, Lt. Michael Haifley was 11-15-69, released 4-1-73. He was became the first American military killed. released two days late in violation men captured in Vietnam. They of the peace agreements. Captain were released 30 August 1954.” From the time of Lcdr. Agnew’s White was the only American POW The men were part of a U.S. capture, until 5-15-75, forty more still held in South Vietnam as of maintenance crew supporting American servicemen died (7 in February 11, 1973, the day before French supply units. DOD SVN, 2 NVN, 23 in Cambodia, and the POW exchange was to begin. MIA/POW statistics started in 1961. 8 in Laos), but none were known All POWs, both military and These men are not recorded in the captured alive. Two of the last to civilians, with the exception of PMSEA reference document. be killed in NVN were Navy pilots Captain White, had been moved Source: Stolen Valor by B.G. Lt. Jim Duensing and Lt. (j.g.) Roy either to Hanoi or to Cambodia. Burkett, pages 25-26. Haviland, 1-30-73. Two of the last Also, by then, nine of the 15 four military men to die in SVN military POWs captured in Laos had Note: Fecteau, Downey and Watt were Air Force Captain George been moved to Hanoi for were the only China survivors out William Morris, Jr. and 1Lt Mark incarceration and eventual release of “389 missing Americans whose Allen Peterson, 1-27-73. Marines during Operation Homecoming. Six fate remained uncertain 65 years 1st Lt. Michael John Shea and Capt military POWs captured in Laos had after the Korean armistice.” The William Nystul were killed in their been released earlier. Chinese never cooperated in CH46D on 4-29-75. That incident resolving the other 386 cases. was during the Saigon evacuation, 7,605 are still MIA from the Korean Source: Stolen Valor, page 22. April 29/30, 1975. The last to die Conflict (1950-53). The capture of in Laos were eight USAF crew the USS Pueblo and her crew on Note: The brutality of the members of an EC47Q aircraft January 23, 1968 by the North Vietnamese toward prisoners has February 5, 1973. During the Koreans is a full story in itself. The been well documented. According Mayaguez rescue attempt in Pueblo incident is not considered to Bernard Fall, who accompanied Cambodia, on 5-15-75, the last day part of the Vietnam Conflict. Also, French combat troops in both of the Vietnam Conflict, 18 U.S. August 17, 1969, a helicopter was Vietnam and Laos, of an estimated servicemen were killed. One Air shot down in the Korean DMZ and 37,000 French and French Union Force officer, one USAF enlisted, three crewmen were captured and soldiers reported missing in two Navy enlisted, and 14 enlisted held for 180 days. Indochina, most of whom were Marines. There were no known assumed to be PWs, only 11,000 POWs. Total MIAs: WWII, 72,638; Korea, were known to have survived. 7,605; Cold war, 126; Vietnam Stolen Valor, pg. 22. A total of 591 POWs (566 military War, 1,587; Gulf wars, 5; and & 25 civilians) were released Libya, 1. Note: Many of the official number February 12th-April 1st 1973 in of 591 American POWs who were Operation Homecoming. Including NAM-POWs Corporation is a tax- released in Operation Homecoming 32 military men who escaped, a exempt Section 501 (c) (19) (566 military, 25 civilians), Feb- total of 662 military POWs got out Arizona Corporation. All statistical April 1973, were captured in one of the South East Asia prisons alive. data comes from the Defense country but detained or released in 141 civilians and foreign nationals POW/MIA Accounting Agency, another. “92 VS/VN,” for example, were also released. Of the 662 who https://www.dpaa.mil. NAM- survived, 231 have died since nampows, cont’d… pow/mia means 92 were captured in SVN and held and released in NVN. Mary Schantag, Chairman Here are the rest: 2 VS/VS, 22 P.O.W. Network VS/CB (Cambodia), 11 LA/VN, 3 CH/CH (China), 457 VN/VN and [email protected] 5 CB/CB. 19 POWs held in CB were returned to SVN for the ‘This is a moral obligation’ Operation Homecoming release on the morning of February During the House Oversight and Reform Committee’s subpanel on national 12th, the start of prisoner security hearing held Nov 19th, Stars and Stripes reported that The exchanges. They were: 1 Air Defense Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency, (DPAA) Force pilot, 1 Marine and 17 director, Kelly McKeague, called his mission “daunting” but critical to Army. Here is the number of American values. POWs who were released early, usually for propaganda “DPAA will not waiver,” McKeague said. “This is a moral obligation [to purposes: 12 VN, 113 VS, 16 LA, recover fallen troops]. They must never be forgotten.” 25 CB, and 2 CH. Total: 168 out Those testifying repeatedly noted the need to increase funds, at a time of 801 were released early (64 the Pentagon proposed cutting funding to DPAA to $145 million, down from military, 104 civilians/foreign 2019’s $160 million dollar budget. nationals). 32 military & 8 Additional funding would allow DPAA to expand the number of scientists civilians/foreign nationals working on DNA identification and expand private –public partnerships. escaped in the same country in which captured (China and NVN: One partner, History Flight, discovered seventy-nine sets of remains None; SVN: 6 civilians, 30 during the 2019 fiscal year, according to Mark Noah, the chief executive military; Laos: 2 military, 1 officer’s testimony. fornat; Cambodia: one fornat). In History Flight’s experience, more than 50% of those recovered had living Only one woman POW survived brothers, sisters, and children at their funerals, Noah told lawmakers this (Monika Schwinn, a German week. nurse, captured in SVN, released in NVN). There were no known “The recovery of America’s missing servicemen is a vital endeavor for their U.S. military women POWs. families and for our country. What we are accomplishing in recovering the missing is putting a little bit of America back into America,” Noah said in a Business Insider US interview. Mike is married to the former History Flight’s recoveries are 20% of the DoD’s annual identifications, but Marlene Hanuschak of Noah told lawmakers that members of his organization had raised and Youngstown, Ohio. They live in contributed more than $3.5 million to fund recovery efforts, which have Monument, Colorado. Mike not been reimbursed by the Defense Department. recently retired from United Noah also testified that his organization has recovered 309 service Airlines. Golf, fly fishing and six members from Tarawa, where time is running out to complete the mission, grandchildren keep the and 429 killed there, have yet to be accounted for. McGraths active as they enjoy life in the Colorado Rockies. Kiribirti’s president, Anote Tong, stated that his county is facing annihilation – and may be unlivable in a few decades due to climate change. It is one Source: of the most remote and isolated countries in the world. NAM-POWs Corporation, an Rising sea levels and high tides force workers to pump water out of working Arizona non-profit 501(c) (19) sites each day to excavate each site. corporation formed in 1973 for the Vietnam era POWs. The clock is ticking on getting the Marines and Sailors home from Betio and Tarawa. Vietnam remains recoveries face similar time-crunch urgency, with acidic soil causing problems. DPAA’s year in review shows that “In Fiscal Year (FY) 2019, bolstered by the strengthening and expansion of partnerships, the Defense POW/MIA

pow/mia, continued… From National Director Moe Moyer: Accounting Agency (DPAA) accounted for 218 formerly missing persons from past conflicts, the highest yearly total BRING OUR HEROES HOME Act, reached by the agency or its predecessor organizations. Of S-2794 the 218 newly accounted for, 140 were from World War II, 73 from the Korean War, and five from the Vietnam War, We know that you are all aware of the including two civilians who flew for Air America.” many ‘stumbling blocks’ associated with Negotiations and active recoveries from North Korea, the POW/MIA Accounting issues. but as stalemated, and planned operations with the regime, never a reminder, the number one ‘Stumbling occurred. Despite that setback, 41 service members from block’ has been ‘Declassification’. the original “55 cases” have been identified, with the potential for up to 150 more being identified. We are not referring to just the Vietnam In November of 2018, Judicial Watch filed a lawsuit against War files/documents, we are speaking the Defense Department, seeking release of lists of POWs of files from World War II through Gulf and MIAs provided to North Vietnam, as well as materials Wars (1941 -today). At the conclusion used to brief President Nixon in 1973 about those who could of the Senate Select Committee, in be remaining in that nation. 1992, the Senate passed a resolution, unanimously, ordering the The organization is also seeking reports of “live sightings” of declassification of all files related to U.S. soldiers from Jan. 27, 1973, to the present, along with POW/MIA accounting. The sitting data collected from the classified program known as “PAVE President then issued an Executive SPIKE,” plus electronic messages containing individual code order and at least two additional numbers issued to U.S. airmen transmitted from the ground Presidents, since then, have also issued in Vietnam and/or Laos from Jan. 27, 1973 to the present Executive Orders relating to according to the lawsuit, which is still ongoing. Declassifying Records that relate to On November 6, 2019, Senate Bill 2994 (S-2794) was POWs & MIAs. introduced. The bill, cited as the “Bring Our Heroes Home Act”, once again, is “To provide for the creation of the Missing I am sure that there are many reasons Armed Forces Personnel Records Collection at the National why multiple Government agencies and Archives, to require the expeditious public transmission to organizations have failed to execute the Archivist and public disclosure of Missing Armed Forces orders issued by Congress or the Personnel records, and for other purposes.” Commander-in-Chief to declassify or turn over their information on those Within the “findings” introducing the bill are several points who are still on the Missing in of note: Action/Unaccounted for List published (1) A vast number of records relating to Missing Armed by DoD/DPAA. Perhaps because it is a Forces Personnel have not been identified, located, or trans- ‘chain of command ‘ issue versus a ferred to the National Archives following review and declas- ‘legal’ issue, that they have little or no sification. Only in the rarest cases is there any legitimate fear of punishment if they refuse to need for continued protection of records pertaining to Miss- abide by the Order. ing Armed Forces Personnel who have been missing for decades. That said, follow this link - https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th- (2) There has been insufficient priority placed on iden- congress/senate-bill/2794 and you’ll tifying, locating, reviewing, or declassifying records relating find a copy of S-2794, Bring Our Heroes to Missing Armed Forces Personnel and then transferring the Home Act, that was reintroduced on the records to the National Archives for public access. Floor of the Senate in November 2019. (3) Mandates for declassification set forth in multiple This is the Answer! This is Ground Executive orders have been broadly written, loosely inter- Breaking work and if this legislation preted, and often ignored by Federal agencies in possession passes, the Bring Our Heroes Home Act and control of records related to Missing Armed Forces will be the first comprehensive Personnel. legislation that will mandate widespread On Nov 7, 2019 a bill to change when the POW/MIA flag flies, declassification of POW/MIA documents became law. The bill changed the days on which the (subject to certain exceptions) and POW/MIA flag is required to be displayed at specified provide independent oversight of the locations to all days on which the U.S. flag is displayed. process. WEAPONS STORED IN SANTO camp. By shortly after noon, the civilian TOMAS Before the war, the cadet message was being repeated all corps at the university would drill over the camp. The afternoon with rifles and other weapons. It flyover by multiple aircraft came Myths of Santo Tomas is rumored that these weapons later and no additional messages were hidden away when the were dropped. Over time, there have been several Japanese occupied Manila. The myths that have grown up around leaders were planning to distribute OSS VISIT TO SANTO TOMAS At the Santo Tomas internment these weapons to internees in the the 50th anniversary of liberation experience. Somewhere along the event that the Japanese started reunion, BACEPOW members were line, a certain event has crept into preparations to execute the people surprised when Reginal Spears a book written about Santo Tomas, in the camp. Whether this plan made a presentation announcing probably based on, “A friend of my could have worked is questionable, that he had clandestinely visited aunt told this story”. It was then but there was no opportunity to Santo Tomas in December 1944 to picked up by another author and so test it since the Japanese removed discuss with members of the the tale became a myth as it was the weapons shortly after Executive Committee the Japanese perpetuated. Sascha Jansen was converting the university to an plans for disposing of internees scrupulous about knocking down internment camp. before Allied troops could liberate false stories. It was her goal, and them. He claimed to be an OSS that of BACEPOW, to keep the LIBERATION MESSAGE On the officer selected by President history of Santo Tomas accurate Saturday that liberation occurred Roosevelt for this special mission, and to weed out errors, falsehoods, when the 1st Cavalry Flying Column and was infiltrated by submarine, and fiction. entered Santo Tomas in late posed as a Canadian working for evening, there had been several the Japanese, and had forged There is now a body of work that is flyovers by American SBD dive Japanese documents that allowed admittedly fiction about the bombers. It has become a myth him to visit Santo Tomas. Spears internment experience. Why is that during a flyover in the late story was considered highly fiction necessary? There are so afternoon one of the pilots had suspect by most of the people at many good personal stories that dropped a message that could be the reunion. Since early in 1944 are entirely accurate so there is no interpreted as liberation would be the Japanese had put all Allied need for fiction. Perhaps it is that occurring soon. There are several civilians in the internment camps authors think that all of the “good” versions of the message rumored, no matter what their status, so it stories have been written and but the one I like is, “Roll out the is unlikely that Spears was allowed therefore resort to fiction. I expect barrel. Santa Clause is coming to roam unescorted by the that at any time a book will be Sunday or Monday.” The afternoon Japanese. He was not questioned written about the zombies that flyover included 2 aircraft, or 4, or at the gate before entering Santo roamed the campus at night to 6, or 9 depending on who is telling Tomas. As indicated in the latch onto the interests of the story. It is fact that the Marines previous myth, there were no millennials – it’s what sells books! were flying the SBDs providing weapons hidden at the camp. close air support for the Flying There is no information in the camp It is easy to have a falsehood creep Column and had at least 9 aircraft records that this visit ever into an otherwise accurate account. over the column during all daylight occurred. And finally, does anyone It is usually a mistake and I am hours of the 3-day race to Manila. really believe that President guilty of this in my own book, A I was a witness to what really Roosevelt chose Spears for the Lovely Little War, where I describe happened, as were others who mission and personally briefed him the four engine bombers that were on the north side of the Main beforehand? raided Manila starting in December Building on that epical day. At 1944 as the new B-29s when approximately 11:00 AM a single KILLING OF LT. ABIKO Abiko was actually they were B-24s. These SBD flew from the north at slow second in command of the kinds of mistakes don’t expand into speed and just above treetop level. Japanese garrison at Santo Tomas, myths as most authors are too As it passed over the Annex, both and the most hated because of his savvy to perpetuate the errors. But canopies were open and the pilot imperious attitude and demands there are some myths that that do and gunner waved to internees on that internees show proper respect get perpetuated and taint the the ground. It flew over the Main by bowing to all of guards and for history of Santo Tomas, such as the Building and the gunner dropped punishing people who did not do so following. his goggles with the message. His to his specifications. There are at brother was an internee in the least 8 different stories about how he died on the evening of to be taken to the aid station, newly published books, so it is liberation, and at least a dozen treated, then transferred to the important to know that they don’t people who claim to be the one who women’s dormitory. represent an accurate history of the shot him. One story has him Santo Tomas internment history. wounded, treated in the aid station, EXPLOSIVES IN MAIN BUILDING and put into a bed in a nearby After liberation, it was rumored that women internees’ dormitory. When the Japanese had hidden explosives the owner of the bed returned and under the front staircase in the BACEPOW found him in it, she threw him out. Main Building in order to kill as Bay Area Civilian The most plausible story is that he many internees as possible should Ex-Prisoners of War. was meeting with a group of American forces attempt to capture American officers in the Plaza the camp. This did not happen, but between the Main Building and the the myth may have originated Membership is open to Education Building discussing the when it became known that a all former prisoners hostages, when he reached across secret message had been of the Japanese, their his body to a pocket where intercepted by U.S. Intelligence Japanese often kept a grenade in from Tokyo to local commanders families, and friends. case they were captured. When he ordering that all Allied prisoners did so, he was shot by a 1st Cavalry were to be executed before they There is an active trooper or a guerilla standing could be liberated. There also were nearby. His body was then dragged other similar myths about how the descendents group. into the lobby of the Main Building execution of Santo Tomas prisoners where it was seen approximately was to be accomplished. www.bacepow.net half an hour after the Flying Column entered the campus. Not From time-to-time, these myths or enough time had elapsed for him similar ones make their way into Cmdr, Angus Lorenzen

Seventy-five Years Ago...

Camp Administration Office Santo Tomas Camp Manila, Philippines

March 12, 1945

Commanding Officer 44th Tank Battalion

Sir:

On behalf of the 3, 768 American and Allied civilians interned at Santo Tomas, we express to you, your officers and men, our sincerest appreciation for the gallant and heroic entry into the City of Manila and the dramatic liberation of our Camp on the glorious night of Feb. 3, 1945.

Mere words cannot adequately express our deepest feelings, but we assure you that the night of our liberation shall be an undying memory for all of us. Sincerely yours, Earl Carroll, Chairman S. L. Lloyd, Vice-Chairman

Editor’s Note: Earl Carroll was the Camp Administrator for Santo Thomas Prison Camp in the Philippines during WWII. Diamond Jubilee of Liberation 75 Years of Freedom from Japan’s Domination

BACEPOW is Planning a Gala Celebration We encourage you to join us for this very special reunion

Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade Thursday February 6 to Sunday February 9, 2020 Preliminary Program

Thursday Reunion Registration 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Embassy Suites main lobby Friday Reunion Registration 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM Embassy Suites main lobby Morning session 9:00 AM — 12:15 PM Lunch break 12:15 PM — 1:30 PM Afternoon session 1:30 PM — 4:30 PM Saturday Reunion Registration 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM Embassy Suites main lobby Morning session 9:00 AM — 12:00 N Panel discussion of liberation at each camp and the impact of the Battle of Manila Jim Zobel of the MacArthur Memorial and Jim Scott author of Rampage about the Battle of Manila will participate with ex- prisoners from the internment camps, and audience participation will be encouraged. Lunch break 12:00 N — 1:30 PM Afternoon session to include tours to various historical museums and for descendants there will be a special meeting for planning the future of BACEPOW and how the descendants will take a leadership role. Sunday Authors’ book discussions 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM Main Lobby Board of Directors’ meeting – 9:00 AM Authors’ work in progress meeting chaired by MaryBeth Klee –10:30 AM Banquet – 12:00 N Keynote speaker — William Paris—1st Cavalry Adjourn – 3PM

Reservations at the Embassy Suites Riverfront Sacramento Hotel should be made early to obtain the special BACEPOW rate of $189. Reservations can be made on the Internet at www.sacramento.embassysuites.com using our group code BCE. Or call (916) 326- 5000 or toll-free 1-800-EMBASSY and ask for the Bay Area Civilian Ex-POW’s code BCE rate. Your reservation includes a complimentary hot cooked breakfast and the managers cocktail party. Valet parking is available at a discount rate of $25 or use self- parking nearby. Free airport pickup call (916) 326-5000. The deadline for reservations is January 16, 2020.

News & Information

March 6-7, 2020. USS HOUSTON CA-30 SURVIVORS' ASSOCIATION & NEXT GENERATIONS 77th Anni- versary USS Houston CA-30 Day of Remembrance will be held at the DoubleTree Hotel & Suites Houston by the Galleria 5353 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77056; 713- 961-9000.

April 25, 2020. AXPOW National Board Meeting will be held in Ar- lington Texas at the Arlington Hil- ton, 2401 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006; 855-213-0582. For more information, contact Clydie Morgan Chief Operating Officer; [email protected].

June 22-27, 2020. Madison Wisconsin. The National Veterans Golden Age Games is the premier senior adaptive rehabilitation program in the United States, and the only national multi-event sports and recreational seniors’ On Sunday, November 10, 2019, a group of Vietnam veterans were competition program designed to together for the first time since they shared a tragic night together improve the quality of life for all in 1972 in the Gulf of Tonkin. older Veterans, including those with For decades, they weren’t allowed to talk about the incident – not a wide range of abilities and even to each other. disabilities. The VA Challenges and And because of the secrecy of their mission, they went decades encourages senior Veterans to be without being recognized for contributions in the Vietnam War. proactive in embracing a healthier lifestyle, thus achieving the NVGAG During the 23rd Annual Military Gala & Banquet at the Chateau on “Fitness for Life” motto. The Games the Lake Resort in Branson, hosted by the P.O.W. Network, these are open to Veterans, ages 55 or men had the chance to visit with each other and receive a long- older, who receive health care from overdue, warm greeting from a roomful of appreciative veterans and the U.S. Department of Veterans family members. Affairs. “To be involved in something that important, but was never spoken of again, just to make sure this group got recognition is what is important,” said Richard Hetzell during an interview before the banquet. He was one of 14 Navy SEALs assigned to take part in a

was killed immediately when he hit The P.O.W. Network awarded News, continued… the water. Another member, Sea- plaques to all the men involved in man Thomas Edwards, was se- Operation Thunderhead, including secret mission to aid POWs in their verely injured. those who have since passed away escape from the infamous Hoa Lo or who could not attend Sunday’s Edwards, who was in Branson Sun- prison, more commonly known by banquet. day, said he suffered several inju- its nickname, the “Hanoi Hilton.” ries, including broken ribs. It The mission was known as Opera- turned out, his injuries were worse The men of Operation Thunder- tion Thunderhead. Along with the than he – or anyone – thought. He head are: 14 Navy SEALs from Alpha Pla- said he had an aneurysm that toon, were seven members of an wasn’t discovered for several years SEAL Team One, Alpha Platoon Underwater Demolition Team and he finally had surgery on the LTJG Robert W. Conger Jr. (UDT) who were to deliver SEALs aneurysm in 1987. EO1 Samuel E. Birkey in underwater Swimmer Delivery RM3 Richard C. Hetzell “It showed up during a physical,” Vehicles (basically a tiny subma- ETR3 John M. Davis he said. rine, but filled with water) to a spot Lt. Melvin S. “Spence” Dry at the mouth of the Red River In the meantime, a second SDV CWO2 Philip “Moki” L. Martin where they were to look for the team had been deployed from the PH3 Tim R. Reeves escaping prisoners and help them Grayback. They also encountered RM3 Michael J. Shortell to safety. trouble, and their vehicle sank in RM3 Barry S. Steele 60 feet of water. They managed to At the time, the SEALs were not ADJAN Robert M. Hooke meet up with the survivors of the aware they were waiting to assist HM2 William B. Wheeler other SDV team and were picked POWs. According to Hetzell, all RM3 Frank H. Sayle up the next morning. they were told was that they were RM3 Dave R. Hankins waiting for “very important indige- The mission continued until the Yn3 Eric A Knudson nous people.” end of June, but no escaping POWs were ever located. UTD-11 SDV Platoon Unfortunately, the mission did not LTJG John C. Lutz go smoothly. That’s because there never were FN Thomas F. Edwards any escaped POWs to be found. On June 3, 1972, the first team, SN Stephen J. McConnel made of two SEALs and two UDT Unknown to the Navy SEAL teams, SN John N. Fraser individuals, endured strong cur- the North Vietnamese had relocat- Lt Thomas McGrath rents and, after running out of ed the prisoners temporarily, caus- GMG2 Douglas Herzik battery power in their Swimmer ing the escape plan to be canceled. Delivery Vehicle (SDV), were un- AAW - HC-7 Det 110 The one casualty from the mission, able to reach an island where they LCDR Edwin Towers Dry, ended up being the last Navy were to watch for the POWs. They SEAL to be killed during the Viet- had to scuttle the Swimmer Deliv- nam War. However, it was years ery Vehicle (SDV) and swim out to before his sacrifice was properly sea where they were later picked recognized. Because the mission up. The four were to be delivered was classified, the military created back to the USS Grayback, a sub- a cover story in which Dry was marine from which the mission was killed during a training exercise. launched. Because of that, Dry’s family did When it was believed the Grayback not know the true circumstances of had been spotted, the four-mem- his death for years, and Dry’s ber crew jumped from the helicop- name was not included at the Na- ter. Darkness and high waves val Academy’s Memorial Hall. To- made it hard to judge the helicop- day, however, his name is included. ter’s height, and a strong tail wind And as of December 2018, those added to the helicopter’s speed. members of Alpha Platoon, SEAL The result was a jump higher and Team ONE, now qualify for the faster than was safe. The leader of CREDIT: Branson Tri-Lakes Vietnam Service Medal for the the crew, Lt. Melvin Spencer Dry, News. Vietnam Ceasefire Campaign. a funding fee at all. VA’s website News, continued… Prior to the measure, only Vietnam describes these and other benefits. War Veterans who served on the Veterans who want to file an initial ground in Vietnam or within claim for an herbicide-related POW PRIORITY Vietnam’s inland waterways were disability can use VA Form 21- CARE ACT OF 2019 eligible to receive disability 526EZ, Application for Disability compensation and other benefits Compensation and Related based on a presumption of Compensation Benefits or work Over the summer, U.S. herbicide exposure. with a VA-recognized VSO to assist Representatives Tim Walberg (MI- with the application 07), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Signed into law June 25, the law process. Additionally, veterans may Brett Guthrie (KY-02), and Bobby specifically affects Blue Water Navy contact their state Veterans Affairs Rush (IL-01) introduced H.R. 3527, (BWN) Veterans who served as far Office. the POW Priority Care Act. It was as 12 nautical miles offshore of the referred to the House Committee Republic of Vietnam between Jan. BWN Veterans who previously filed on Veterans Affairs. This bipartisan 6, 1962 and May 7, 1975, as well a claim seeking service connection legislation would elevate former as Veterans who served in the for one of the 14 presumptive Prisoners of War (POW) to Priority Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) conditions that was denied by VA Group 1 in the scale used by the between Jan. 1, 1967 and Aug. 31, may provide or identify any new Department of Veterans Affairs 1971. These Veterans can apply for and relevant information regarding (VA) to determine eligibility for disability compensation and other their claim when reapplying. To health care benefits and services. benefits if they have since re-apply, Veterans may use VA Currently, POWs are allocated to developed one of 14 conditions that Form 20-0995, Decision Review Priority Group 3. are presumed to be related to Request: Supplemental Claim. As exposure to herbicides such a result of the new law, VA will “We owe every veteran who wears as Agent Orange. Veterans do not automatically review claims that the uniform our steadfast gratitude need to prove that they were are currently in the VA review and commitment to delivering exposed to herbicides. The specific process or under appeal. timely, high quality care,” said Rep. conditions can be found by Walberg. “Prisoners of War not only searching Agent Orange answered the call of duty, but they MY HEALTHEVET on www.va.gov. endured unthinkable hardship and made unquestioned sacrifice in The U.S. Department of Veterans Survivors can file claims for service to our country. We will Affairs (VA) accomplished a record benefits based on the Veteran’s never forget those who did not landmark Oct. 15, when the agency service if the Veteran died from at return home. For those who did, registered more than 5 million least one of the l14 presumptive after facing such adversity, one users on My HealtheVet, which conditions associated with Agent way we can recognize their valor is encourages Veterans to take Orange. The law also provides to ensure former POWs are moved control of their health. benefits for children born with spina to the highest priority slot when it bifidaif their parent is or was a comes to their care at the VA.” The web-based portal provides Veteran with certain verified online tools that enable Veterans service in Thailand during a specific BLUE WATER NAVY to proactively engage with their period. The Blue Water Navy Act health care team and make VIETNAM VETERANS ACT also includes provisions affecting informed decisions about their the VA Home Loan Program. The health and well-being. The U.S. Department of Veterans law creates more access for Affairs (VA) begins deciding Blue Veterans to obtain no-down “My HealtheVet is a shining Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act payment home loans, regardless of example of how Veterans can play of 2019 claims, Jan. 1, 2020, loan amount, and the home loan a more active role in their health extending the presumption of funding fee is reduced for eligible care journey,” said VA Secretary herbicide exposure that include Reservists and National Guard Robert Wilkie. “VA is committed to toxins such as Agent Orange, to borrowers who use their home loan providing the necessary Veterans who served in the benefits for the first time. Certain technologies to ensure that offshore waters of the Republic of Purple Heart recipients do not pay Veterans receive care when and Vietnam during the Vietnam War. where they need it.” The tool allows Veterans to refill prescriptions, view scheduled VA appointments, send secure messages to their health care teams and download their personal health record.

Since the site’s launch in 2003, Veterans have used My HealtheVet to refill more than 148 million prescriptions, send in excess of 86 million secure messages, view upcoming VA appointments more than 74 million times and download more than 37 million health data reports.

For more information or to join online, visit mvp.va.gov Call the MVP Info Center toll-free at: 866-441-6075 with any questions or to schedule an MVP visit.

FROM A BOY TO A MAN Three Years in the Life of Nicholas A. Orlando (1943 -1945)

By Richard Orlando [email protected]

My dad, Nicholas A. Orlando, was “From a Boy to a Man” is my became much closer and Dad born in Brooklyn, New York in 1922 attempt at telling Dad’s story by slowly started to come out of his but spent most of his childhood and providing the details of his life from shell, telling me more stories and adult life, except for his military late 1942 through the fall of 1945 sharing his experiences, both the service, in the “Five Towns” area using his diary, journal, letters, good and bad. In early 1970, Dad of Nassau County, Long Island. He documents and photographs, as finally finished renovating the was a child of the Depression Era well as my own research. Once basement and selected one corner who experienced hard times at an commenting about his military of it for himself. It was turned into early age, working odd jobs and service in a local newspaper a museum of sorts, with some of caring for his ailing mother. He interview Dad stated, “I went in as his WWII memorabilia, books, never went on a vacation and the a boy and came back as a man”. It photos and personal documents on only trip he ever embarked on was was just one simple observation display. On these walls was his one by auto to Washington, D.C. that summarized how he felt about story - actual telegrams, when he was a teenager. Up until the overall experience. But, it newspaper articles, photographs World War II (WWII), he never flew certainly didn’t reflect the and medals in frames for all to see. on an airplane or sailed on a ship magnitude of what he endured It was here that I would later at sea and was never out of the during those war years and how it discover his diary, journal and United States. impacted the rest of his life. letters, which provided me with the necessary details and inspiration to In 1943 however, his life would I never viewed my dad as being a compile a personal history of Dad’s change forever. Dad, like most of hero or out of the ordinary. Like life from 1942 to 1945. his boyhood buddies, was ordered my uncles, other relatives and to report for induction into the U.S. fathers of my friends, Dad was just But it wasn’t until the spring of Army. Dad didn’t have to go to war another soldier in WWII who 1992 when I took more of an because he was employed by the served his country well and interest in what Dad experienced Republic Aviation Corporation in returned home, by the grace of and realized that he was truly a Farmingdale assembling P-47 God, to work and raise a family. I survivor and hero with a story to aircraft for the war effort. But, he would become an adult and father tell. He was being honored as felt that he needed a change and myself before finally realizing how “Legionnaire of the Year” by his decided to serve his country in a special Dad was and truly American Legion Post 339, and I very different way. The Infantry did understanding the sacrifices he was requested by the Commander not appeal to him so he decided to made for us and for his country. to help compile a book for a “This volunteer for the Army Air Force Is Your Life” type presentation at (AAF). He could have never Dad was always proud of his the actual ceremony. I couldn’t ask imagined what was to become his military service but never bragged Dad for assistance because it was destiny - a Ball Turret Gunner on a or talked too much about it. It a surprise. This is when I started B-17 “Flying Fortress” and a would occasionally come up in to research Dad’s personal affects prisoner of war (POW) at the conversation but he kept the gory and discovered that I really wanted infamous Stalag XVIIB in Austria. details to himself. Once I to know much more. I was able to graduated from college and obtain declassified documents from enlisted in the National Guard, we the National Archives and even from a boy, cont’d… I read several other POW accounts of the march and compared them contacted former crew members with Dad’s in order to fill in some of and fellow POWs. It was an the blanks. But, it was difficult to emotional experience for all coincide the dates, the distances involved. covered and cities along the route. It became evident that conflicting After reading other similar accounts details were most likely the result of WWII experiences in books and of bad weather, terrible living on the internet, especially after conditions, and dangerous discovering that there were circumstances which added to the websites for the Mighty Eighth Air confusion as the massive human Force Museum, the 306th Bomb wave moved across the Austrian Group and Stalag 17B, I decided it countryside. was time to find a permanent home for Dad’s story. My first attempt (3) A few 3½” x 6" lined pages was “A Fateful Farewell for Able which were probably torn from a Mabel”, a story about Dad’s plane Unfortunately, there were a few note pad. This source was written and crew and their final mission on major gaps in the diary (i.e., Apr not printed, very legible and in good March 22, 1944. 15 - May 29, Jun 6 - 28, Jul 7 - Aug condition. These pages contain the 2, 1944, and Jan 12 - 29, Feb 8 - details of the few days waiting at With Dad’s assistance, it was 21, 1945) and many other Ranshofen, Austria, the trip to Le distributed to friends and family in individual days that had no entries Havre, France, and time spent at January 2010, just one month at all. The majority of the date Camp Lucky Strike (May 5th before he died. Dad did get a entries included were one-liners or through May 11th). (See Exhibit chance to help me decipher his a few sentences with little detail or 30) Dad remained at Camp Lucky diary and journal, some portions of explanation. However, it was Strike until May 20th, but for some which were almost impossible to enough for me to build upon. And, reason it appears that none of this read after much abuse and with my own research using the time period was documented in any deterioration. It was a difficult many references available, I was diary or journal. However, there is process however, and he had a able to uncover an abundance of always the possibility that it was tough time remembering the valuable information which enabled and the pages were either details, some of which rekindled me to enhance Dad’s initial effort. misplaced or destroyed. bad memories. Unfortunately, Dad passed away before I had a chance (2) 5½” x 8" lined pages which (4) A 6½" x 8" hardcover journal to finish the project but now it’s were probably once part of a bound with lined pages. This source was complete and ready to be shared composition book. This source was written not printed on one side of with his family and friends, as well written not printed and, for the each page, very legible and in good as the rest of the world. most part, in very poor condition condition. This was actually the first due to exposure to the elements phase of the book my dad was Diary & Journal and abuse. The paper was faded planning to write about his time and washed out, almost to the point spent in the military. He started it Dad’s actual diary and journal were which it appeared that nothing had during the first week of May 1945 documented in four different ever been written. The writing bled but for some reason never finished sources: through on several of the pages and telling his story. The last item noted some entries were impossible to was his arrival in England on (1) Pre-printed numbered pages decipher. These pages contain the November 20, 1943. This was the torn from a Wartime Log book. This details of the last week at Stalag “book” my Aunt Clem referred to in source was printed not written, very 17B, the 18-day 281 mile “March her letter to my dad, dated August legible and in very good condition Across Austria”, and encampment 17, 1945. considering its age and miles in the forest where the POWs were traveled. These pages contain what liberated by the American forces Sorry to say that Dad’s goal to write Dad described as “Dates to (March 31st through May 3rd). It’s and complete his book never came Remember” (March 22, 1944 a miracle that this part of the diary to fruition. It’s hard to say why he through March 30, 1945). even survived the journey. (See never finished it, but getting Exhibit 29) married and providing for his family and its there you are sent so they little story I will try to explain, as from a boy, cont’d… can third degree you for simple as possible, our life here information. Frankfurt itself was in during the war. The camp here is was definitely a distraction. I’m shambles and a mass of wreckage located about 30 miles due west of sure with a little literary assistance, when I went through it. While I was Vienna. And situated in a valley he could have authored a book as there the American POW camp with numerous mountains several of his fellow Kriegies did. outside of Frankfurt was badly surrounding. The grounds are fairly However, over the years many damaged and luckily only one well vegetated and there are quite more stories and details of his American killed. My daily food a few rainfalls during the year. wartime experiences were shared. ration was two slices of buttered And, that together with his diary, bread and a bowl of soup a day. “The American POWs total here is journal and letters enabled me to Some days I had nothing to eat to about 4,200 with an estimated produce this document which will bear my mind that they were 4,000 of other nationalities nearby. preserve his story for generations seeking information. All the Americans are non- to come. commissioned officers therefore it “I was interrogated three times and eliminates their working or going on April 5th at 6:30 p.m. I was on Kommando for the Germans. released from solitary and taken to That doesn’t apply when at the a barbed wire enclosure with other point of a Gerry’s bayonet which, airmen to await transportation to incidentally, happens quite a few prison camp. The food was the times. same with the exception that if you cared for seconds on lousy soup it “Now to get down to the actual was all yours. In addition to this camp life. We have eighteen improvement the Russian prisoners barracks in all but only fourteen are who were stationed there inhabited. The barracks is divided permanently, sent us two into halves, A and B respectively. cigarettes per man a day. They A total of 300 men is in a barracks, were decidedly inferior to American 150 in each half. There’s a From Freedom to butts but tasted good after being washroom in the middle of the Captivity without them for so long a time. barracks and two stoves furnish heat. We have one stove to cook “April 9th was eventful because on and by alternating, everyone “It was on March 22nd that we about 4:00 p.m. 100 Americans manages to cook something daily. abandoned our bomber over and yours truly arrived at Stalag Lights and water are only on for Germany proper about one XVIIB in Austria after leaving Dulag short periods of time. Roll Call hundred miles west of Berlin. It was Luft on April 6th. The trip, three ranges anywhere from two to five 2:15 p.m. when I bailed out and days and three nights, was in a cold a day and the first is seven a.m. was captured shortly after hitting box car. Besides the meager Gerry the ground. Thus, I joined the (slang for German soldier) rations, “Our camp is run by one of our own Caterpillar Club. Our plane was five men shared one 10 lb Red men who is elected into office. In badly damaged and aside from my Cross food parcel. And I enjoyed our case, S.Sgt. Kenneth other four crew members, it still my first American butt since March Kurtenbach has been camp leader remains a mystery to me what 22nd. At our permanent prison, we since its first election. Other men happened to the other five were deloused, had our hair cut off get different positions by the same members remaining and the plane completely and finally given a royal method. The five officers here, 1 itself. reception by the old Kriegies as we major and 4 Captains, do not have had news from the outside world. very much to say in running the “I was captured by civilians and a All of this has truly been an camp. Of the five, one is the few young German Home Guard. experience, one which I shall never chaplain and the other four medical We were then put aboard a train forget.” men.” and arrived at Dulag Luft on March 23rd at 6:00 p.m. There I was Camp Life “The food given to us by the assigned a room 6'x4'x8' and Germans isn’t very good. The remained there in solitary parcel we receive weekly from the “This is the story of life in our confinement for thirteen days. Red Cross is really our well-being. prisoner of war camp here in Stalag Dulag Luft is in Frankfurt, Germany XVIIB at Krems, Austria. In my

and rumored to contain sawdust. rate in the Stalags, approximately from a boy, cont’d… Spuds, salmon, corned beef, 5 deaths per 1,000 prisoners, but horsemeat, cooked barley, prunes the Germans provided neither food Without it many of us would never and raisins were served a few times nor clothing that met the standards have survived this far. a month. The Germans also of the Geneva agreements. dispersed uncooked rations for the Treatment was never considered “Incidentally, two American men krieges to prepare in their makeshift good, and the guards were very have been killed here up to now kitchens: worm-infested potatoes, hateful. which isn’t a bad omen. One was margarine that looked like axle shot trying to escape and the other grease, and blutwurst, a sausage There were times when things even because he went crazy. Clothing is made from onions and congealed became brutal. Even the camp’s issued as much as possible but animal blood. However, Kriegie officers showed very little controlled by the Germans. They ingenuity produced a daily diet that consideration for the kriegies well- issue us each an equal amount and barely sustained life. Hot water was being often ignoring the terms of everyone is in good shape. The provided on a regular basis, to be the Geneva Convention). theater here is quite the thing. It used for making coffee and soup as has produced some good plays. well as shaving. Needless to say, For more about the book, please Once in a great while we see an the food was substandard and contact Richard Orlando; American movie. rations were skimpy - malnutrition [email protected] and near starvation would better describe the situation.

Dysentery and diarrhea were commonplace. All of the Kriegies suffered from the infestation of lice and fleas and rats ran rampant around the compound. The barracks were cold, dark and damp with no heat. There was a single stove and scant fuel – only 54 lbs. of coal per week for the entire barracks. Most “Luckily we have plentiful sports of the Kriegies developed chilblains equipment. Every sport imaginable due to the constant cold, causing took place at one time or another their feet to swell and crack. At here in camp. Baseball, football, night, the fleas and lice would feed basketball and boxing were the After all the prisoners had left in these cracks. Kriegies shared Stalag XVII-B, the Russians most popular respectively.” straw-filled flea-ridden mattresses occupied the area until mid- in triple-decked bunks. They also 1946 with a force of nearly shared washbasins into which cold The Reality of the 10,000. After that, the area water ran only a few hours each day was handed back to the POW Condition and a single indoor latrine for use after dark. The large daytime pit Austrians and work began to Dad was too kind with depiction of latrines, which were located demolish the camp. Properties life at Stalag 17B. Conditions were between the barracks, overflowed taken by the Germans were deplorable, and the Kriegies faced regularly filling the air around the given back to their original many hardships and health hazards: living areas with a deplorable owners and any building stench. Hot water and showers were materials salvaged from the (The camp cookhouse supplied only rare, contributing to poor hygiene camp were used to rebuild the one cooked ration a day. The food making life at the camp precarious. surrounding civilian homes and provided was primarily barley, Medical services were scandalous; businesses damaged in the rutabaga or potato soup that had the equipment was antiquated and war. Today, nothing remains of the consistency of glue (more often the number of trained personnel Stalag XVII-B, only a fish heads or other assorted inadequate. monument stands in the discards), with little white cabbage general area to mark the place worms floating in it and moldy black Historians have made much of the where thousands of men were hardtack bread, so-called “goon Germans’ general adherence to the imprisoned. bread”, that was full of black insects Geneva codes and the low death new members Request for membership application National Headquarters American Ex-Prisoners of War PO Box 3445 Arlington, TX 76007-3445 Name: (817)-649-2979 Address: [email protected] City: State/Zip:

Membership is open to US Military and Civilians captured because of their US citizenship and their families/descendents.

DO NOT send dues with this Rebecca A Gafford request for an application. Owasso OK Mail to: American Ex-Prisoners of Daughter of Harlan Cook, ETO, War PO Box 3445 Arlington, TX decd 76007-3445 (817) 649-2979 email: [email protected]

Certificate of Captivity $25.00 Suitable for framing, this certificate of captivity, printed on 8½ x 11” quality paper, proudly displays your history as a prisoner of war. Each certificate background is personalized to the theatre of operation. We will need your name, service number, branch of service, unit when captured, POW number (if known), camp names and locations. You may also include a picture with your order. To receive this certificate from AXPOW, please order from National Headquarters by calling 817- 649-2979 or email: [email protected].

Contributions The Meaningful Gift A number of years ago, one of our members made the decision to establish a bequest to the American Ex-Prisoners of War. He felt strongly that he truly cared about our future and wanted to leave a legacy to us. He and his wife are now gone, but their generous gift enabled them to demonstrate in a very meaningful way their commitment to AXPOW. More recently others have done the same. Support for our programs became the beneficiary of their please send donations to: generosity.

National Headquarters, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX You, too can take action today to help 76007-3445. Checks must be made payable to AXPOW or ensure that the American Ex-Prisoners of American Ex-Prisoners of War. War remains through your will or living trust. This gift can be funded with cash or securities, mutual funds or other investments that are not serving your GENERAL FUND current needs. This special gift will benefit Bernard Rader, Freeport NY future generations as well as we continue In memory of Alice Golin, Commander, Dept of California our transition to a true legacy for her tireless work on the Civilian Dental Presumptive organization. and her kindness to us, by Maryjane Laznibat, BACEPOW It’s very simple to make a bequest to the In memory of all deceased members, by Mid-Iowa Chapter American Ex-Prisoners of War. Simply In memory of George Willoughby, by Shirley Willoughby share this sentence with your attorney or In memory of John Greenman, by Annis Dominey financial planner and they can add the In memory of Mary Jean Canale, by Lighten Up LLC following to your will or living trust: In memory of Maurice Sharp, by Bonnie Sharp In memory of my husband, Irving, by Dorothy Bailey “I give, devise and bequeath to the In memory of Pierre JJ Kennedy, by Patricia Donovan American Ex-Prisoners of War, PO Box In memory of Ray Merritt, by Dorothy Merritt 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445, the sum In memory of Ray Merritt, by Stephen & Maryjane Laznibat of $______or ______(named In memory of Roy Mitchell, by Associated Resources Mgt investment) or ____percent of the rest, Inc residue and remainder of my estate.” In memory of William J Russell, by Patricia Miller Your generous support of our programs over the years has made a tremendous difference to ex-POWs and their families. VOLUNTARY FUNDING Please take a few minutes of your time Arthur Cormier, Lovell ME to help ensure our future. And feel free Irving Lautman, Norristown PA to contact CFO Marsha Coke at Jon Olsen, Columbus OH [email protected], or CEO Cheryl Nancy Christensen, Oklahoma City OK Cerbone at [email protected]. Tom Gibbons, Palm Desert CA Phone #817-649-2979. Thank You!

taps

Please submit taps notices to: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664

CHANDLER, SINA JORDAN, 91, of Germany. Dick was the last 15th AF, 459th BG, 756th BS, flying Woodville, TX passed away Nov.14, surviving member of the “Erwin out of Foggia, Italy. Both Alice and 2018. Born July 24, 1927 in Nine” – nine men from a very small Mort were life members of AXPOW. Spurger, Texas, she lived in Tyler town who were captured during Alice served as a National Director County all of her life. A wonderful WWII. He is survived by his loving and Junior Vice Commander, cook and pie maker, Sina loved to wife of 69 years, Elizabeth, 1 AXPOW. She and Mort served as make quilts and give them to her daughter, 1 son and their families. chapter commanders of the family and friends. She loved to Coachella Valley Chapter, CA. Alice fish and play games and was known FREDERICKSON, JANE DONER, of also served as the State to her family as the “Spicy Red Greensboro, NC passed away Oct. Commander, Department of Wasp”. She always had a smile on 12, 2019. She was 95. Born in California. Alice had a large, caring her face. Her husband (ex-POW Cebu, as a teenager she was heart and was an advocate for Fukuoka Camp #1) predeceased captured when the Japanese ex-POWs, civilian ex-internees, her. She is survived by 1 son, 2 occupied the Philippines in 1942. widows, and others. She helped daughters, 1 brother, 13 She was interned with her parents ex-POWs and their widows with VA grandchildren, 22 great- in the Santo Tomas Internment benefits and procedures. Alice is grandchildren, 3 great-great- Camp in Manila for more than 3 survived by 1 daughter, 2 sons and grandchildren and a large and years before liberation. Both Jane their families. Her legacy will be loving extended family. She will be and her late husband, Bob, were remembered in the hearts of those missed not only by her family but active in civilian ex-POW affairs; she passionately assisted. her many friends as well. they were both life members of AXPOW and active participants in JONES, LYNN T., 97, of Billings, MT DEVLIN, JOSEPH L. of Roselle, IL both national and local AXPOW passed away Aug. 19, 2019. He passed away Oct. 29, 2019. He was events. She leaves one son, one served as a ball turret gunner on a captured while serving with the daughter, four grandchildren, one B-17 during WWII and while on a AAC during WWII and held until sister and several nieces and bombing run over Hamburg, he was liberation. He was predeceased by nephews. shot down, captured, and then held his wife, Barbara; survivors include in Stalag 17B for 22 months. Lynn 3 daughters, 7 grandchildren, 11 FULLER, ROBERT BYRON, of was a life member of AXPOW. great-grandchildren and their Jacksonville Beach, FL died Oct. 4, Survivors include 1 son, 6 families. 2019 at the age of 91. A Navy pilot grandchildren, 5 great- during the Vietnam War, he was grandchildren and their families. FALLON, WILLIAM F., of Arlington, forced to eject from his A-4 MA died March 23, 2012. During Skyhawk over North Vietnam; he KOEHLER, FRANKLIN R. of WWII, he was captured while was injured, captured and endured Maywood, NJ passed away Dec. 1, serving in the US Army. He was nearly six years as a POW before 2019 at the age of 99. He was held in Stalag 11B Fallingbostel being released in 1973. He is serving with the 106th Inf. Div. Prussia and work camps until survived by his wife of 67 years, when he was captured in the Battle liberation. Bill’s wife, Josephine, Mary Anne, four children, six of the Bulge and held until predeceased him; survivors include grandchildren and a host of liberation. Frank and his late wife, 4 sons, 1 daughter, 2 brother, 7 extended family and friends, Mae, were active members of grandchildren and 1 great- including campmate and close AXPOW in New Jersey and at the grandson. friend Wayne Waddell. national level. Frank was Chapter Commander of the Ocean County FRANKLIN, DICK LEE, of Erwin, TN GOLLIN, ALICE, 82, died, Oct. 2, Chapter, AXPOW for a number of died July 25, 2019 at the age of 94. 2019 on St. Simons Island, GA. years; he also served as National Captured when his B-17 was shot Alice was the widow of Morton Director – Northeast Region. His down over Munich, he was held in Gollin, a former POW in the ETO wife, Mae, and his first wife, Luft IV, and then marched across who served as a navigator in the Madeline, predeceased him; he l Troop Carrier, 95th Squadron. In His loving wife of 69 years, Peggy, taps, continued… 2012, George was able to go on an survives him; he also leaves 2 Honor Flight to Washington DC sons, 4 grandchildren and their eaves 2 sons and 2 daughters, 9 where he was honored to place the families. grandchildren, 8 great- wreath at the Tomb of the grandchildren, 2 step-daughters, Unknowns. His wife, Betty, SMITH, ARBREA FAE, 100, of and their families. predeceased him; he leaves 1 Lubbock, TX died Sept. 9, 2019. daughter, 1 grandson, 2 brothers, She was the widow of Ex-POW KONECHNE, PHILLIP EDWARD, of 4 sisters and several nieces and Delvin and she took an active part Kimball, SD died Aug. 8, 2019. He nephews. in veterans’ affairs, including was 87 and a life member of volunteer work at the local VA. AXPOW. While serving his country PLUMLY, FRANCIS L., age 96, of Arbrea is survived by 1 son, 1 during the Korean War in May of Barnesville, Ohio, died Oct. 14, daughter, 9 grandchildren and 9 1954, Phil was captured and held 2019. He served in WWII with the great-grandchildren. until the armistice was signed. 106th Inf. Div., 422nd Reg., 2nd Following his return, he married Bn, Co. F. Francis was captured in STERLER, GEORGE T. OF Hartley, Maxine Mae; they were together the Battle of the Bulge and was a IA died Aug. 17, 2019 at the age of more than 60 years until she German POW. He was a life 98. He served with the 96th BG, passed away. He leaves 2 sons, 1 member of AXPOW. Francis is 338th BS, as part of the European daughter, 6 grandchildren and 13 survived by 2 daughters, 3 Theatre of Operations. He was shot great-grandchildren, and an grandsons, 4 great-grandchildren down over Germany, captured and extended host of family and and their families. held in Sagan, Nuremberg and friends. Moosberg. George was a life ROWEN, DALE ARNOLD, of St. member of AXPOW. His wife, MEHLING, GEORGE D., 97, of Charles, IL passed away Nov. 16, Norma, predeceased him; he is Anderson, IN died Nov. 10, 2019. 2019. He was 95. During WWII, he survived by 1 son, 1 daughter, 1 He was captured in the Battle of the served with the AAC. His plane was sister and a large, extended family Bulge while serving with the 440th shot down; he was captured and and friends. held in a POW camp in Germany.

“TAPS” The origins of “Taps,” the distinctive bugle melody played at U.S. military funerals and memorials and as a lights-out signal to soldiers at night, date back to the American Civil War. In July 1862, U.S. General Daniel Butterfield and his brigade were camped at Harrison’s Landing, Virginia, recuperating after the Seven Days Battles near Richmond. Dissatisfied with the standard bugle call employed by the Army to indicate to troops it was time to go to sleep, and thinking the call should sound more melodious, Butterfield reworked an existing bugle call used to signal the end of the day. After he had his brigade bugler, Private Oliver Wilcox Norton, play it for the men, buglers from other units became interested in the 24-note tune and it quickly spread throughout the Army, and even caught on with the Confederates.

Not long after Butterfield created “Taps,” it was played for the first time at a military funeral, for a Union cannoneer killed in action. The man’s commanding officer, Captain John Tidball, decided the bugle call would be safer than the traditional firing of three rifle volleys over the soldier’s grave, a move which couldn’t been confused by the nearby enemy as an attack. As for the name “Taps,” the most likely explanation is that it comes from the fact that prior to Butterfield’s bugle call, the lights-out call was followed by three drum beats, dubbed the “Drum Taps,” as well as “The Taps” and then simply “Taps.” When Butterfield’s call replaced the drum beats, soldiers referred to it as “Taps,” although this was an unofficial moniker, according to “Taps” historian and bugle expert Jari Villanueva. He notes that Butterfield’s bugle call was officially known as “Extinguish Lights” in American military manuals until 1891. Since that time, “Taps” also has been a formally recognized part of U.S. military funerals.

of starting over, literally, turning another, for people, tolerance and from wrong doing to God and right understanding are needed, for our chaplain doing. II Chronicles 7:14 (If my government every citizen needs to people, which are called by my name, trust God so He will “heal our land.” Benny shall humble themselves, and turn Rayborn from their wicked ways; then will I So the question can be logically hear from heaven and will forgive asked, “Are you complaining or are 1111 their sin and will heal their land.) you trusting? Highway although this verse was written for 29 the Israelites, you don’t have to be My closing scripture is I Timothy an Israelite to receive the promise of 2:1-3. Verse one plainly states Wiggins, this verse because anyone who trusts “prayers …for all men” and Verse two MS God is a part of “my people”. specifies our rulers “and for all that 39577 are in authority”, in modern English, Being a part of God’s people means everyone in our government. Verse

leaving behind our sinful ways and three states “good thing to do” and I making a new resolution to trust God would like to make this prayer for the As I write this we are in the midst of (“seek my face”) and to live a better New Year. Father in Heaven, Great the Holiday Season. However, by the life (“turn from their wicked way”). God of Mercy, Forgive what we have time you read this, we will be beyond This results in “hearing from heaven” done amiss and bless our efforts to Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukah In short God acts (or moves) to do rightly and to better ourselves in and New Year’s. It is possible, as you forgive those things we have done this coming year. Bless our jobs, our read this you will have forgotten your wrong, and “heals our land.” fellow citizens, and our government. New Year’s resolutions. (If you made Amen any) Americans have three favorite pastimes, complaining about our Happy New Year. New Year’s resolutions are usually jobs, complaining about other people efforts we make to better ourselves. and complaining about our Benny While the Bible does not speak of government. The solution to all three New Year’s resolutions it does speak problems are simple. For jobs, seek

American Ex-Prisoners of War MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTION To honor a loved one or a former member (Donations are tax-deductible to the extent of the law)

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Contributions should be sent to: American Ex-Prisoners of War PO Box 3445 Arlington, Texas 76007-3445

All Checks must be made payable to AXPOW or American Ex-Prisoners of War

AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR VOLUNTARY FUNDING PROGRAM

The AXPOW Voluntary Giving Program parallels that of other VSOs, whereby the entire membership, including life members, is given the opportunity to contribute to the operation of our organization, based on ability and willingness to contribute. All contributions are to be sent directly to National Headquarters to be used for the operation of the organization. A complete accounting of contributors will appear in the Bulletin each issue.

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JEFFERSON BARRACKS POW-MIA MUSEUM JEFFERSON BARRACKS POW-MIA MUSEUM

N is {or Never Forget is a child -friendly book that takes readers on a compelling journey through wartime history. Poignant illustrations and stories capture key people, concepts, and memorials to help readers understand and honor the sacrifices endured by men and women prisoners of war and missing in action on behalf of freedom .

Proceeds from books purchased through JBPMM, Inc. (501c3) go directly to restoring \ renovating the former 1896 Officers Quarters Building into the Jefferson Barracks POW-MIA Museum. $21.95 including S/H. Contact Paul Dillon at [email protected]; 314-609-9037.

Challenge Coins Bronze Grave Medallions

$13.00 includes S/H/I $100.00 includes S/H/I

All orders for products sold by AXPOW, including dues/subscriptions should be mailed to: American Ex-Prisoners of War, National Headquarters, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445; [email protected]

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Include your mailing label for address change or inquiry. If you are receiving duplicate copies, please send both labels. If moving, please give us your new address in the space below. Name______Address______City/State/Zip______Phone______Email______Please allow 4 weeks to make address changes.

Mail to: National Headquarters, AXPOW, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445. Email: [email protected]