College of the Holy Cross CrossWorks

The Octofoil Special Collections

3-1-1996

The Octofoil, March/April 1996

Ninth Infantry Division Association

Follow this and additional works at: https://crossworks.holycross.edu/octofoil

Part of the Military and Veterans Studies Commons, Military History Commons, Social History Commons, and the United States History Commons

Recommended Citation Ninth Infantry Division Association, "The Octofoil, March/April 1996" (1996). The Octofoil. 315. https://crossworks.holycross.edu/octofoil/315

This Newsletter is brought to you for free and open access by the Special Collections at CrossWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in The Octofoil by an authorized administrator of CrossWorks. THE

412 Gregory Ave.• Weehawken, N.J. 07087 THE NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION Volume XLXXI Number 2 Mar-April 1996

Ninth Infantry Division LADIES CORNER New York Site for Reunion June 4-7, 1996 Reunion Program Well, it's April, the sky is Concord Hotel blue, the sun is shining, I Tuesday, June 4 saw a Robin Redbreast last 9:00A.M. Registration Lobby Thursday, and today I actu­ 9:00A.M. Golf Outing Lobby ally feel like writing a col­ 4:00 P.M. Board of Governors Meeting TowerS umn. It won't be much of 7:00-8:00 P.M. Dinner Dining Room one, just bits and pieces ­ 8:30 P.M. Welcome Party (Beer, Soda, Cordillion like: Have you sent in your Pretzels, Chips) - Cash Bar reservation for the Dancing Imperial Room 9:30 P.M. Concorde in June yet? Do 10:15 P.M. Showtime Imperial Room you have your Pollyanna gift bought yet? Do you have a nomination for a donation to Wednesday, June 5, 1996 a Veterans' home/hospital? 8:30-10:15 A.M. Breakfast Dining Room Are you a member of our 9:00A.M. Registration Lobby 9:30A.M. Women's Auxiliary Meeting Cordillion Auxiliary yet? Do not mail 9:30A.M. General Meeting Forum me your answers, just do it 10:00 A.M. Committee Meetings please! As for myself - all is Budget and Finance fine here at the Taubners, By-Laws Joe and I are set for the Miscellaneous Reunion and hope that we Newspaper have a good showing of Nominating General Meeting continues Company B, 47th people, at 11:00 A.M. least more than the 6 from 1:00-2:00 P.M. Lunch Dining Room 4:00 P.M. New Board of Governors TowerS last year. I also mailed in a THE CONCORD RESORT HOTEL 7:00-8:00 P.M. Dinner Dining Room nomination for the Veterans WELCOMES THE OLD RELIABLES 8:30-10:00 P.M. DJ Disco (Cash Bar) Cordillion Administration Medical to the 9th Infantry Division Association 10:15 P.M. Showtime Imperial Room Center on Kingsbridge Rd in 51st Annual Reunion, June 4-7, 1996 The Bronx, New York, which As one of the snowiest winters on record in the Thursday, June 6, 1996 . has a Spinal Cord Injury Northeast melts away to the coming of spring, the lush 8:30-10:15 A.M. Breakfast Dining Room Patient Computer Labora­ Lobby green hills and woodlands of the Catskill Mountains beck­ 9:00 A.M. Registration tory. It bridges the gap ons 9th Infantry Division Association comrades to the 10:00 A.M. Memorial Service Cordillion Cordillion between physical disability world-famous Concord Resort Hotel. Located on beautiful 6:30 P.M. Cocktail Hour and the outside world. 7:30 P.M. Banquet Dining Room Kiamesha Lake in New York State the 1996 reunion head­ 8:30-10:00 P.M. DJ Disco (Cash Bar) Cordillion Doesn't that sound worth­ quarters is ready to receive Ninthmen, ladies, and guests· 10:15 P.M. Showtime Imperial Room while? Think about it and we with outstanding accommodations, gourmet meals, var­ Friday, June 7, 1996 will vote on it in June. Well, ied activities and star entertainment. 8:30-10:15 A.M. Breakfast Dining Room that's the end of my bits and The Greater New York Area Chapter, your host for the 1:00-2:00 P.M. Lunch Dining Room pieces. Take care and we'll 51st Annual Reunion, and the Concord, have worked dili­ Strike Tents see you in June! gently to make your stay pleasurable and memorable. Ellie Taubner Besides fun and camaraderie this reunion promises to 85 Smith Avenue have one of the most debated renewed issues placed Bergenfield, NJ 0762 J before World War II members - the acceptance or non­ acceptance of 9th Infantry Division Vietnam Veterans for . Florida Chapter Ladies membership.. Auxiliary News The Memorial Service for our 4,581 buddies lost in WWII and those who have since left us will be honored in Kevin Billon was our chef a special and moving ceremony. at the New Orleans school of If you haven't made reservations to attend yet, call the cooking. He demonstrated Concord immediately at 1-800-431-3850, and hopefully, the creole cooking tech­ you will be aCcommodated. Rip Van Winkle's long sleep is niques as he went along, and about to end. On June 4, 1996, Rip will fully awaken to the kept us laughing with his tumultuous arrival of the Old Reliables to the 51st Annual humorous stories. Reunion in his Catskill Mountain abode - greeted by It was a most unusual your host - the Greater New York Area Chapter. Come event and all present really one, come all! enjoyed it. We were served lunch that Kevin cooked. It TRANSPORTATION George Nicklin, 47th supplies photo taken at the last was wonderiul and different Public: Worcester Memorial Services. Shown l-r Walter from our every day meals. Shortline Bus Company (212) 736-4700. O'Keeffe, Janet and George Brown)taken before the The ladies of the Florida Van Service: 800-759-5548. luncheon. Chapter wishes to thank Limousine Service: 800-762-6212. PRESIDENT'S CORNER each and everyone from the Private: After a number of years of working hard to peddle my other chapters that helped From New York City and Metropolitan Area: (2 hours) own books, it's nice for a change to be touting another's. to make the cooking school George Washington Bridge to New Jersey Palisades This is the book for many members of the Association a big success with your Parkway to New York Thruway North. whose combat time with the Division came in the Fall of presence. We had fun and Proceed on Thruway Exit 16 and proceed on Rt. 17 to Exit '44. It probably started after a long, bumpy ride in the hope you did also. Thank 105B. On Route 42, follow signs to the Concord. back of a deuce-and-a-half and might have ended a short you for being there. From Southern New Jersey & Philadelphia: (3 hours time thereafter in a searing flash beneath one of the ever­ Lila Stansell from Phila.) New Jersey Turnpike to Exit 11 Garden State dripping pines of the Huertgenforst. Hail and farewell, President of Ladies Parkway North to New York State Thruway North. N.Y.S. sometimes before one even learned which part of the 9th Auxiliary .Thruway to Exit 16 Rt. 17W). Proceed on 17 West to Exit he had joined. Edward G. Miller's A Dark and Bloody Florida Chanter 105B (Rt. 42). Follow signs to thp Concord. Ground, (Texas A&M University Press, about $30) is 217 River Beach Dr. .From Scranton; Pa. Route 84 East to Rt.17 West .to.Exif. Ormond Beach, Florida 1058. Follow sign~ to the-Concord.. guaranteed to bring back the clammy shivers of those 32176 awful days. From Connecticut:· Route 84 West to Rt. 17 West to Exit The Huertgenforst is a huge estate of lumber-on-the­ EDWIN H. LUSK 1058. hoof climbing up over deeply eroded remnant hills pro­ 131 Auburn Rd., From Boston and New England States: Mass. Turnpike to viding the headwaters of Western Germany's Roer River, Indian Springs, Al 35124 Sturbridge Exit. Route 86 South to Route 84 West. a major tributary of the Rhine and a potential obstacle to I need a pair ot 60th In!. Proceed to New York Exit 4W to Route 17 Quickway West the First U.S. Army's reaching its initial goal inside cro~sed rifle insignia. Please to Exit 105B (Kiamesha Route 42 North). Turn North on Germany. Over the years, as an aid to local agriculture let me know where I can Route 42. Follow signs to the Concord. Estimated driving and coal mining, the Roer's seasonal flooding had been order a set. A used set time from Boston - 4 1/2 hours; Springfield - 3 hours. brought under control by the construction of a series of 'would be fine. AIR: Stewart Airport located at Newburg, New York. dams. These impounded enough water so that its sudden Thanks. Carriers now operating: American, Delta, United Express release could flood the river greatly and rapidly, thus Edwin Lusk. and U.S. Air. greatly improving its defensive possibilities. This factor P.S. The above insignia Car Rental: Major car rental agencies are located at all was an integral part of Nazi Germany's Westwall plan­ will go on myoid uniform New York Airports and Stewart Airport. Driving time. from ning. Indeed, the Siegfried Line fortifications ran through which I am donating to the Stewart to the Concord is 50 minutes. the Huertgenforst due south from the city of Aachen, one National Infirmary Museum of its major bastions. at Fort Benning, Ga. Also Deadline for next issue July 20th Continued on page 6' three other items. THE OCTOFOIL

THE OCTOFOIL Tip ofthe Hat Form 2579 should be sent to THE 9th INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION 412 Gregory Avenue, Weehawken, N.J. 07087 Remembering the Memorial Octofoil Associated Editors Fund and their buddies who Walter O'Keefe and Daniel Quinn have answered their last roll 5151 ANNUAL CONVENTION National Officers Board of Governors call we thank the following President 1996 members and friends: TUESDAY - FRIDAY - June 4 - 7, 1996 Henry Phillips Edwin Wisniewski Mrs. Anna Hatrak - In memo­ 14002 Hemlock Dr. Columbus, MI ¢\)thing, And rh Penn Valley, CA 95946 Al Farrante ry of husband, George, 47th e Framington, MA Int. I Co. , f;v ' J eJz J; Vincent Guglielmino, 1st V.P. Henry Phillips \\s ~ o)'/z. 114 Charles Street Penn Valley, CA Herbert Stern - In memory Floral Park, NY 11001 Adolph Wadalavage Ozone, Pk., NY of John Lewis and Jimmie 0~ @ Albert Perna Richards, 9th Med. Bn. Philadelphia, PA Pat DeColli, 2nd V.P. 1997 . 1017 Jackson St. Nicholas D'Agostine Phila, PA 18148 Cherry Hill, NJ Thomas DeIli-Priscoli, Jr. - In Michael Belmonte memory of Frank Lovell, A -CONCORD Ronald Murphy, 3rd V.P. Oak Park, IL Btry. 60th F.A. Bn. 44 Strawberry Lane James P. Driscoll Scituate, MA 02066 Holiday, PI. RESORT HOTEL Herb Olsen Victor Larson - In memory Dave Heller Marson Mills, MA of Sgt. Grill and Pvt. Rollow KIAMESHA LAKE, NEW YORK 12751 Judge Advocate 1998 K.LA. Feb. 27, 1945. 618 Sumac Rd Ed Hopkins ROOM RESERVATIONS Highland Pk. II 60035 Metchuen, NJ Ken Meyer Mrs. Catherine Palley - In Name Spouse Name. _ Thomas Boyle, Treasurer Belton, TX memory of husband, Albert, 39 Hall Avenue Phil Bermani 47th Int. Unit (Reg. Co. Btry, etc) _ Somerville, MA 02144 Daytona, FL Owen Salle Glenn Smith - In memory of Daniel Quinn, Secretary Decatur, II Street Address _ 412 Gregory Avenue AIZenka James A. Johnson, 47th Inf. Weehawken,NJ07087 Bellrose, NY City State Zi p, Phone, _ Floyd Hennessey Ray Schmader Lambertville, MI Will arrive on Will depart on _ Mrs. Hugh Capella - In mem­ Published five times yearly. May, June, July - Aug. Sept. Oct. - Nov. Date Date Dec. - Jan. Feb. - Mar, April by and for the members of the Ninth ory of husband, Hugh, K Co. Infantry Division Association. News items, feature stories, pho­ 60th Int. tographs and art material from members will be appreciated. Every Please check any special request: Smoking__Non-Smoking _ effort will be made to return photographs and art work in good condi­ Chester Jordan Handicapped__ tion. An extract from the certificate of incorporation of the 9th Infantry John Bonkowski - In memo­ ACCOMMODATIONS (please indicate): Division Association read: "This Association is formed by the officers and men of the 9th Infantry Division in order to perpetuate the mem­ ry of Matt Urban, 60th Int. ____ECONOMY $256.00 ory of our fallen comrades, to preserve the esprit de corps of the ____SUPERIOR Division, to assist in promoting an everlasting world peace exclusive­ Ernest Micka - In memory of Super Deluxe $307.00 ly by means of educational activities and to serve as an information ____TOWERS & EXECUTIVE bureau to former members of the 9th Infantry Division. Bill Davidson. $360.00 Copy must be received on or before the 15th of each month to Ultra Deluxe guarantee publication of the 20th. Joseph Killen - In memory of Rates are per person, for three nights, based on double .occu­ Secane' Class Postage paid at Union City, N.J. 07087, and additional his cousin, George Johnston, pancy in each room from after lunch on Tuesday to after lunch offices. G Co. 39th Int. on Friday, and include 3 meals daily. POST MASTER: .Send address changes to 412 Gregory Avenue Single occupancy ... 25% more than Double Occupancy rate. Wet;haW~fen, N,J. 0708 7 Eugene Terry ., Banquet Dinner only ... $37.50 (includes tax) Volume XLXXI Number 2 Mar-April 1996 Any other Dinner ... $30.50 (includes tax) Robert Miller Lunch ... $23.90 (includes tax) Publication #402820 Daily rate for third or fourth person in same room with two Albert Hasson adults: NINTH INFANTRY OMSION ASsOCIATION MEMBERSHIP APPUCATION Chalmus Cochran - In mem­ Child 0-2 yrs. of age $18.00 ory of Walter Sommons, C Child 3-12 yrs. of age $38.00 Dan Quinn, National Secretary, 9th Infantry Division Assn. 412 Co. 9th Med. Bn. Child 13-18 yrs. of age $58.00 Gregory Ave., Weehawken, New Jersey 07087 Henry Santos - In memory of Adult over 18 is 80% of the Double Occupancy rates quoted Enclosed please find dues for: Art Schneider, Hdqtrs. 39th above. Int. Name Serlal No . One Night Stay (subject to availability)... $20.00 above daily rate. James Burke - In memory of Street Address . Edward Pictroski, Hq. & Hq. Names of additional persons and ages: Total of persons, _ 2nd Bn. 39th Int. I was a member of: Marv Levy - In memory of 9th Infantry Division Association 51st Annual Convention Battery Company Regiment 9th Div . Norbert R. Gorny, Willie L. Bobbitt, Robert Dickey, Tuesday - Friday, June 4 -7, 1996 Humphrey Rini and Walter I wish to sign up for the following: -Gratuities and taxes are included in your rate. Slover. Regular Member per year $10.000 47th Inf. I Co. A dep<;>sit of $50 per person is required to confirm your MRS. ANNA HATRAK reservatIOn by May 1, 1996. Refunds will be made only if Sustaining Member . 64 Holt Ave. the Hote~ reservations department receives, in writing, Trenton, N.J. 08619 cancella~IOn at least. one week prior to arrival date given. Donation Memorial Scholarship Fund O The enclosed check is a DepOSIts are applIcable to given arrival night only. Late THR£E..YEAR MEMBER $25.000 donation in memory of my day arrivals without notifying reservations department of Life Membership $75.000 husband George M. Hatrak, revision in advance will forfeit first night's deposit and Ladies Auxiliary Member $ 2.000 Co. I 47th Int. accommodations are subject to availability. Decals 50-each I enjoy your magazine Make checks payable to Concord Resort Hotel and mail Please credit the following chapter: every time I read it. to Convention Reservations, Kiamesha Lake New York I miss George a great deal. 12751. ' Philly-Delaware Valley 0 Greater New York 0 Thank you. The hotel will honor the same daily room rate to our Illinois 0 Washington, D.C. 0 group for anyone wishing to arrive three days before or New England 0 Michigan 0 remain three days after the Reunion, subject to availabili­ Florida 0 New Jersey 0 47th Inf. ty. MRS. CATHERINE M. PALLEY Texas lir SouthWest a California Chapter I;J 'For further reservation information telephone hotel 519 South Main Street Ladies Auxiliary toll-free: 1-800-431'-3850. Be sure to state that you are with Zelienople, PA 16063 the 9th Inf. Diy: Reunion Group. . Ninth Infantry Division Association Enclosed is a small dona­ Membership Application tion in memory of my hus­ Carol Saunders,!re~urer,Ladies Auxiliary band, Albert Palley. Attention All Duffers P.O. Box 1584, Greenfield;Tn 37744 Thank you for sending me Enclosed please find dues for: ' The annual get together of the duffers will gather on this publication. I read it Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. in the Lobby of the Name _ carefully (especially the let­ Concord Hotel where Marty Gross co-chairman of the ters) to see if I can recognize reunion will lead the hackers into battle. At our age the Street Address, _ a name or two my husband Concord Hotel has a sporty Nine hole course (for free) at may have mentioned. He the main entrance to the hotel. The other two 18 holers City State. _ Zip _ was in the 47th Infantry "The Monster" charges $80.00 weekdays (includes cart, when he sailed to North which is a must) and the International has a charge My spouse (Brother or relative) Africa. also. Reservations are required. As an old hacker myself I Your paper is excellent. would suggest that we use the "Freebee" and not wear Served with. ---'--- _ ourselves out before the reunion begins? Our members can make "Tee Off Time" at arrival at the Hotel, or see the One year $2.00 Chairman Marty Gross, for Tee off times. Credit Chapter _ THE OCTOFOIL - Company F 47th Infantry GREATER NEW YORK CHAPTER FLORIDA CHAPTER NEWSLEITERS Last month we lost anoth­ NEW MEMBERSHIP ROSTER: The new Florida Chapter er of our gallant warriors to We.ll, folks, the Greater New York Chapter finally had a ~eetlllg after a 2-month hiatus, due to a heavy snow blitz Membership Roster dated April 1, 1996 was prepared and the ravages of old age. Doris sent to all members by William Fleming. Sec. Bill did a III January and February! This scribe is happy to report Williams called me from fine job in up-dating and compiling names for this pro­ Arizona to inform me that th.at sixteen Old Reliables attended our regular 3rd Fnday-of-the-month meeting on March 15 at the Masonic ject. However, there are always some changes whenever her beloved Charlie passed a new roster is printed and this one is no exception. away. It seems that it was Hall.. 71 W 23rd St, NYC. The meetjng began at 7:30 p.m., chaired by our 1995 prez Charlie liBretto. After the usual Please note the following on your copy: but a few years ago that Coleman, James C. Deceased. (Note from his son to Bill Charlie and Doris sold their openin~ pledge to the flag, Charlie, who had been holding the weighty gavel for 3 months beyond his office tenure Fleming). Michigan home along with Phillips, Lester - Change address to read: 245 Wildwood their vacation cabin to move was relieved to finally present the mighty hammer to hi~ 1996 successor Prez Marty Gross during the 1996 Dr. Box 21 St Augustine, F132086. to Arizona for what they Richards, Jean - Add "West" to 1662 Pierson Rd West. hoped would be many care- Installation of Officers ceremony - which had been post­ ed since January. Varco, William - Add an "e" to Varcoe. free retirement years. Please send any corrections, deletions, or additions to Unfortunately the end came Change of Guard William Fleming, 7861 Praver Rd West, Jacksonville, FL . sooner than they had Offic.iating at the transfer of office was our resident 32217 or phone: 904/733-1877. We need your input to . expected. Charlie had the chaplam ~eorge Apar: who eloquently discharge the for­ keep our records current and to up-date future rosters. , good fortune to have those mer president and hIS board of officers with his inim­ Anyone wishing an extra copy of the roster, please· who loved him most nearby itable praise from an infinite vocabulary. Former send $1.00 and a 32t postage self addressed #10 (large) during his last years. Doris Treasure~ Charlie Vandermark, who, also had taken over, envelope to Bill Fleming. and their two lovely daugh­ temporarily, the secretarial duties of Art Schmidt for the THE ITALIAN SOPHIE TUCKER RETURNS: Those mem­ ters brought much happi­ last few yea~s, during Art's bout with his leg injury, was bers who attended the November 1994 Florida Chapter ness these last few years. It lauded for hiS double duty. Apar then installed President mini-reunion at the Ramada Resorts Hotel in Daytona will seem strange not to see .Gross and his board of officers in the Greater New York Beach were delightfully entertained by Angie Tereigino him in our CP anymore. He Chapter. Members applauded former prez liBretto's who bills herself as the ITALIAN SOPHIE TUCKER....and certainly was a faithful mem­ efforts on behalf of the chapter (considering Charlie had she is truly a wonderful entertainer. She is coming back ber of our CP group, and successfully avoided the presidency for 50 years). at our November Meeting to be held at the Holiday he'll be sadly missed. . Besides President Marty Gross, the other 1996 officers Sunspree Resort in Daytona Beach and will perform on Speaking of our CP, Danny mstalled are: 1st VP Jack Holuboff, 2nd VP AI Lipton, Saturday night, November 23, 1996. If you enjoy laughing assures me that everything Sec.retary Arthur R. Schmidt, and Treasurer AI Zenka. Dan and a good time, you should make every effort to attend is in order for us at the Qumn would continue as Judge Advocate and Tony this function. Any National Association member who may Concord. We should have a De~obertis as Sgt. of Arms. Board of Governors represen­ be in Florida during our meeting time and would like to good turnout. I'll be picking' tatives: 3~th Joe Brod.y, 47th Vincent Guglielmino, 60th AI attend, please contact Emil De Donato, 3650 S.W. up Earl Wilkey ira Newark the Zenka, Dlvarty AI LIpton and Special Troops Arthur Mosswood St., Dunnellon, FI 34431 for the Fact Sheet day before..Lucy and I will Schmidt. NY Chapter delegates to the National Board of which will be mailed out approximately 6 weeks prior to be driving Paul Giarriaputo Governors are AI Zenka and Adolph Wadalavage. George the Fall Meeting. More information regarding our Fall to the Catskills. Lou and Apar continues as resident chaplain. Meeting will appear·in other issues of the OCTOFOIL. Marion Slatnick have made Oth~r business included reports by reunion committee THE VIETNAM ISSUE: During the January 20, 1996 their reservations as has co-chalrmen Marty Gross and AI Zenka that all was going Florida Chapter Officer's Meeting in Daytona Beach, all Jack Finnigan and Herb well with plans for the 1996 51st Annual Reunion at the the officers agreed to allow the veterans who served with Hoepfner and Charley Concord Hotel. the 9th Division in Vietnam to join the National Assn. We Rochelle. I know the rast Presidents Nite urge all members who plan to attend the National DeSandys will be driving up Reunion this coming June to consider this issue serious­ from their retirement home On Friday, May 17, we will have our Past Presidents Night to honor those dedicated Ninthmen who have ly. We firmly believe that our Association will profit by in Southern Pines. Hopefully the addition of the Vietnam veterans who fought and died the Schmaders, the Chuck served the chapter. Memorial Service for the same cause as we did. Jones's and the Felton NORRIS GRAY COMMENDED: One of our very own Jones's will all be in atten­ On Saturday, May 18 (Armed Forces Day) we urge members to attend the annual Memorial Service for our Florida Chapter members, Norris Gray of Melbourne, dance. George King will be Florida has played a key role in bringing about the sharing a room with his 4,581 fallen comrades of WWII and those who have since left us. Services will be held at the Long Island National' remarkable performance of the U.S. National Aeronautics grandson. Jan and George and Space Administration (NASA) Space Program. Norris Brown are ready to make the Cemetery on Wellwood Avenue, Farmingdale. We will assemble in the parking lot at 10:00 a.m. and march to the Gray has been intimately involved with everything leav­ trek from their Virginia love ing the ground since the earliest days at the Kennedy nest. Lucy and I are looking main ceremonial area where the service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Following services we will meet at Bethpage Space Center. His job involves fire, crash and rescue forward to seeing all you responsibilities for the Space Shuttle. Norris Gray has good people in June. State Park for a picnic barbecue lunch provided by the NY Chapter. completed a round-the-world trip to inspect bases pin­ I hope you all weathered pointed as possible emergency landings sites should the NY Chapter members: don't forget your 1996 dues ­ the dreadful winter we had mission had to abort. He is likely to be found in Rota, $10 for 1 year, $25 for 3 years, and $75 for Lifetime all over the country (except Spain, Hawaii, Okinawa or Japan as _he is in his office at Membership. Make checks payable to the Greater NY in Southern California) and Kennedy Space Center. He has instructed fire depart­ Chapter, 9th Inf Div Assn and send to Arthur R. Schmidt, are renewed in health and ments all over the world in the techniques of saving lives Secretary, 89-12 Doran Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385. spirit. Except for a two week of the space crews, minimizing damages, applying safety Members also attending the March 15 meeting not men­ spell when I suspected that I conditions in the event of a shuttle accident. had pneumonia and was tioned above: Al Eisen, Marv Levy, Al Lubrano, Joe As Norris stated in answer to the question: "What does headed for the Happy Rzesniowicki and Hermnio Suarez. thiS mean to local fire departments?".... he answered Hunting Grounds, I find Your host, the Greater New York Chapter, looks for­ "Some day they could find themselves covering an emer­ myself reasonably healthy ward to meeting all Ninthmen at the 51st Annual Reunion gency landing of a Space Shuttle at their local airport. and able to dodder about. of the 9th Infantry Division Association at the Concord Because of this, we are now exploring methods of dissem­ Drive carefully on your Resort Hotel, June 4-7, 1996! inating information on extricating astronauts dealing with way to the Concord. I'm sure exotic fuels involved and 'safeing' the Orbiter." The that you'll find the facilities TEXAS & GREATER SOUTHWEST CHAPTER Florida Chapter is proud to have such a loyal and devot­ and the food first rate. At the regular meeting of the Great Southwest Rotary ed member within our ranks. Edward Hopkins Club on November 8, 1995, John W. Miller, Rotarian and FL CHAPT WOMEN'S AUXILIARY NEWS: Sec/Treas 110 Hollywood Avenue former President of the 9th Infantry Division Association, chaired a salute to veterans. Audrey De Donato reports that Ruth King wrote her stat­ Mct\,("hen, New Jersey Assisting from the 9th Chapter were Kenneth Meyer, ing that her husband Irving has been ailing since last 08840-2116 Reverend William "Dub" Lynch, Robert Burky and Gordon August. He has been to the V.A. Clinic in Tallahassee sev­ B Co 15th Engrs Schneider. The invocation was delivered by Reverend eral times for diagnostic tests. Irving was sent to the VA ERNEST MICKA Lynch and the Pledge of Allegiance by Ken Meyer. in Gainesville where he was diagnosed as having hip and 114 Spring Garden Dr The walls of the meeting room were decorated with five spinal arthritis. Since taking his medication and doing his Louisville, KY 40218 by nine foot American flags and over forty posters from exercise therapy, Irving is feeling much better. His wife Please accept the enclos­ the National Archives and the Department of Defense. On Ruth went on to write that Irving does most of the shop­ ed gift in memory of Bill each of the luncheon tables were reproductions from the ping again, goes into Tallahassee and Monticello and Davidson. December 8, 1941 edition of the NEW YORK TIMES starting to do some yard work. We hope and pray that It was shocking to hear of announcing the start of World War II with Japan, and the both Ruth and Irving King are okay to attend our his passing away since it May 8, 1945 edition declaring the end of the war in November Florida Chapter Meeting. was a short time after his Europe. Helen Mizell sent a post card to Audrey stating that her letter to you appeared in the On tables around the room were World War II uni­ husband Willie developed a blood clot in his leg. Octofoil. He seemed to be in forms, helmets, and medals. Ten infantry rifles, carbines, Although Willie is not a member of the Florida Chapter, pretty good spirits at the pistols, a sub-machine gun, and a 30 cal. light machine he showed great interest in our chapter. He also sol­ time. gun were displayed. diered with Emil and usually attends the National The Concord reunion is Narrations were given by John Miller for the Army and Reunions. They will not attend the coming June Reunion fast creeping up on us and by Rotary Club members who had served in the Air but might make our Chapter Meeting in November. we're looking forward to Corps, Marines, and Navy during World War II. (Writer's note: Get well soonjViIlie... we miss your funny another great time with our Ken Meyer and Willard Norris, President of the Texas jokes). Emil J. De Donato friends. and Greater Southwest Chapter, attended the Annual 3650 S. W. Mosswood St. It sure would be nice to Infantryman's Ball February 24, 1996, at Fort Dunnellon, Fl 34431 /4 9 see a few new faces show up Leavenworth, Kansas. They were the house guests of Col. 352l 8 4°70 Ed Thurman, the CO of the 3rd Bn 47th Inf at Fort Lewis, - to sort of fill up the ranks The next Texas & Greater Southwest Chapter meeting vacated by Bill D and Tony Washington, from December 1988 to December 1990. is tentatively scheduled for October, 1996, in Shreveport M. Warrant Officer Willard Norris (Ret) and Command Louisiana. This date was selected so as not to conflict So come on you guys ­ Sergeant Major Ken Meyer (Ret) should be proud they with the forthcoming national meeting in New York. surprise us - we'll have a can still fit into their dress blues. helluva good time. Gordon Schneider THE OCTOFOIL

thumbs up-Thumbs down-proposal to change By-laws 9th In!Div Assn WOW·'~E'I'VE GOT l-41 GUYS, HAVING:> MORE MEM BER5 ANY PROBLEMS. l1-4AN WE' HAVel

Co K 47th Inf. PRESIDENT'S CORNER Co I 39th Inf Mr. Henry R. Santos CHESTER H. JORDAN Moving right ahead 51 years, we're coming down to the Rd. 9811 N. Connechusett DONALD E. LAVENDER 1058 West Lakeview Drive moment of truth on the Vietnam membership issue. This 2913 49th Street Tampa, Florida 33617 Baton Rouge, LA 70810-4641 is the final' Octofoil before we meet at the Concord for a Dear Henry: Des Moines, Iowa 50310 (504) 769-5407 vote on it. I believe that both sides have had full opportu­ I have read, and re-read FAX (504) 769-5407 nity to express their views on the matter and I only seek your vitrolic letter in the Gentlemen: 23 March 1996 to add one thought. The last time we went into the ques­ recent Octofoil. It troubles me, as a veter­ In perusing the Jan-Feb tion, at Fayetteville in '92, I was shocked at the final tal.ly Henry, Red Phillips needs an of the 9th, that there are issue of the OCTOFOIL, I was because there were more eligible voters present and SIt­ some among our Association no defense from me but I struck by the fact that the ting on their hands than the total number of those voting who resort to innuendo and either way! feel compelled to remind preponderance of those sup­ you of a few things. I hope name calling because of a porting RED PHILLIPS posi­ Since that time, when I've run into those who admitted disagreement. I refer to one your mind, which seems so tion of INUNDATION OR to their Fayetteville fence-sitting, the most frequent alibi of the articles in the Aug­ clouded by anger and ELIMINATION OF N.LD.A., offered went like this: "I wanted to support you, Red, but Sept-Oct issue. hatred, will settle down and are old army men, or mar­ myoId buddy so-&-so was violently opposed and when I consider what I am writing. All of us fought side by ried to them. Red was a thought back about so-&-so's many years of faithful ser­ What do you mean by side with a pride that has Light col., Waller was a Col. vice to our Association, I couldn't go against him so I endured for well over 50 didn't vote." "Johnny come lately?" or a Major, GLEASON was a I first met Red Phillips in years. All who know the Major, MEYER was a I guess that was supposed to make me feel better, but it Schevenhutte, Germany in Ninth and its enviable com­ Sergeant Major, and Mrs. didn't. Also, I realize "the more things change, the more the autumn of 1944. He was bat record respect it and STUMPH was married to a they remain the same." The weepers and wailersare still a first lieutenant at that time those who made that record. Col. That is a pretty impres­ out there and I'm determined not to deprecate their past and was a seasoned warrior At a time when all organiza­ sive BRASS SECTION to deeds and contributions. I would only ask what they'll be veteran of all the 9th Int. tions are struggling for mem­ buck. Of course, it was also able to do for us tomorrow. This is not a contest of per­ campaigns since the land­ bership, we certainly don't supported by our old· sonalities but whether our Association is to have a ings in North Africa! !::!2.w need personal animosity to ranking K CO. SHRINK, future. I hope you will vote "Yes" on the question of ~ someone who served add to the problems. GEORGE NICKLIN. NICKLIN'S allowing our younger brothers in arms to join our organi­ Not long ago, I was some zation. They can make us sing again! with the Ninth Inf. Div. "thoughtful" position seems t'h'ro"ullhout ~ war be 1500 miles from home when to be that we owe the Viet a man I had never met recog­ Red Phillips deemed a "Johnny Come Vets a debt of honor for 14002 Hemlock Dr. Lately?" Red went on to nized the Ninth patch on my proving that we couldn't Penn Valley, CA, 95946. serve more than twenty cap and called out - "old whip the Russians. Besides additional years as an officer . Reliables". I enjoyed a brief Co. E & G 47th Inf. he doesn't believe they As far as our association is in the J.S. Army! "Johnny and pleasant visit with him would join anyhow. JAMES E. LEOPOLD concerned, in my opinion and learned that he had Dear Dan, Come Lately?" I must confess that I have NOBODY has done more for ~s present when the been a Lieutenant in the never laid eyes on the by­ I don't know that "Red" .Ninth in Vietnam. the life of the group than issue of admitting 9th lnt. laws of the NINTH Phillips needs anyone to "Red" Phillips. Henry's Div. Vietnam vets to the We may have some die­ INFANTRY DIVISION ASSN., speak for him, but it seems remarks about "Red's " Association was voted on at hards that feel we should but I would bet that your to me that SOMEONE should motives in researching his­ the Fayetteville, N.C. keep the Ninth Association army rank does not carry respond to Henry Santos' tory for his three books are reunion. I was very sur­ to ourselves (WWII vets). special privileges in the fra­ scathing (and Mike Bel­ way out of line. You can't prised that many members That attitude completely ternal organization. Perhaps monti's far less critical) overlooks the possibility write and publish books like at that meeting did !!Q1 YQ1rl these commissioned stal­ remarks about Red's efforts those for profit, unless your This statement by you that a that our 9th comrades who warts have a more com­ to open the association to motive is to make about a majority of the members are wore the OCTOFOIL in pelling sense of history, but Ninth Division soldiers who dime an hour for the time against letting Vietnam vets Vietnam may be just as who ordained them as KEEP­ did not serve between 1941 spent! proud as we. They suffered and 1945. join the Association may not ER OF THE FLAME? be accurate now. if it ever just as we did, they fought Certainly not the army, it I, myself, have "waffled" By the way, I've bought was. lf they don't vote we just as hard and they main­ has effectively erased the back and forth on this issue and read all three books will never know, will we? tained the good name of the 9th. because I can see merit to and, although I don't agree Ninth. If YQl! have done ~ It would seem to met an both positions. After all, with everything he writes, I than Red Phillips for your To eliminate them is just outsider of both of these most of us lucky enough to strongly applaud the huge country and the Association as foolish as to say that only groups, that the men who have gotten this far in life effort he made to put in I am certainly not aware of those who fought with the formed and nurtured this are getting towards the final print more about the it. Ninth in Africa can belong. organization over 50 years, date and some would like to "NINTH" than anyone else. I Longevity of our Association One thing I am certain of kn0w what they wanted and see the memories of our wonder if Henry has read is only one reason to consid­ these fine books. however: I have never heard seem to be pleased with actions carried on after we er Vietnam Ninth Veterans Red Phillips speak evil of a what they have. IF IT AIN'T leave. Maybe younger mem­ How can anyone in our for our organization. Recog­ brother-in-arms and that, in BROKE, DON'T FIX IT. If you bers would do this for us. age bracket get so upset? nition of their performance my opinion, sets him above want something else, it's a But why in the world After all, we all want to be in a situation that most us you and your tirade. free country, go and estab­ would Henry blast "Red" the happy with each other over us WW II vets were glad to I pray that your heart may lish one in your own image. way he did? these last few years. have avoided is sufficient in be cleansed of its bitterness Perhaps, only FIELD GRADE Although we both ("Red" I THINK "RED" DESERVES itself. They have earned it and that we can all consider at the start. and I) served in the 47th for AN APOLOGY FROM HENRY! every bit as much as we. most of the war, I didn't As always I send my best this proposal to admit Vietnam vets as rational meet him until the associa­ regards to you and our won­ adults. It's time to cool down tion started having reunions derful friends of the Ninth. Marge and I look forward to Sincerely, As we enter the home stretch and election day draws after the war. In the years near let us all take a deep breath, calm down and remem­ since then I have learned seeing you at the Concord in Willard Norris j Fam~ly", June. CW 4 Usa Ret ber that just as in any "blood v:e don't always that "Red" served in the see eye to eye on issues that conflIct WIth our own but third battalion of 47th as a All the Best, 504 E. Kerr St. Jim Leopold Burnet, TX 78611-2608 after the dispute is resolved we take a page out of the platoon leader and served hockey player, boxer, trial lawyer's etc.'s book. They well. He must have served In case you forget, I served Pres. Texas Chapter in the 2nd Bn, 47th Int. for 32 9th Int. Div. Assn. play/fight, call each other names, insult ~tc. but after the well because, at the war's bell, trial etc. they walk away friends WIth a handshake end he was asked to remain months!! . If you are going to attend the business meeting on and maybe a drink while breaking bread together ~fter in the army and only officers the bloodshed. That is the democratic way, the Amen~an with fine records were so Wednesday (at the reunion) don't forget to carry your \V-~y. membership card for the vote that will be ta~en. The Let's start our nuclear plant cooling down .penod honored. In later years of now and pray that we will not be put through thIS trau- service he rose to the rank committee wants to be assured only card carrying mem­ of Lieutenant Colonel, which bers will be permitted to vote. matic pain again. Henry Santos isn't an easy thing to do! 9211 l'\ Connechusett Rd. Tampa, f',-, :i3617-4517 Deadline for next issue July 20th A-Co. 1~th Engrs. THE OCTOFOll

B l 9th Inf Div Assn Thumbs up-Thumbs down-proposal to change y- aws ANTICIPATION

\\CJ.I &. Thoughts so often arise; memories don't fade; faces and places the mind readil.y r~pla~s; ;PI CrlJ~£ the Ninth steadily mamtams Its place - in mind and memory, /5 lAIo If rH thus. Heads a-turnin', eyes alight­ ~Nf) Seeking a buddy coming into IJ tf/ous sight - Hopefully there is one I know LV 0/1 DS ~/ Who fought o'er desert sand ".. ~ ",--- r- __ and snow! We'd marched awl fought and /1/1£1( made our stand' We sailed the ocean; tread desert sand; Battled and forced the ene­ ~-~-(~;;~ mies hand. Together each shared the tri­ als and woes, 9th Recon As continued the struggle 9th M.P.s JOHN BONKOWSKI 'gainst a desperate foe. {;o,'B;47th Inf. 19241 Angela Crt. WALTER WOLFSON 84th Field Through endless conflict and O'rion C. Shockley Roseville, MI 48066 7115 Summer Tree Drive Morrie Rosen sometimes seeming despair #1 River Bend Drive Boynton Beach, FL 33437 617 Racquet Club Lane 'Twas proven that each for P.O. Box 340 We've gone through this I was there when the 9th Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 the other did care. Gustavus, AK 99826 "By-Law Proposal Change" Infantry Division was con- Dear Dan, 'Twas all these things that Dan Quinn, Editor in the past and I thought ceived, and have been a The rancor stirred up by brought victory home . Dear Danny: that I would stay "out of it" member since 1945, except our family feud on admitting At a price that was weighed Perhaps you can find and express my opinion at for a few middle years. the Vietnam Ninth vets has by each heart alone... . room for this letter if any the ballot box, at the coming Adolph Wadalavage and spilled beyond our associa- Considered now is the pnce space is left after the domi­ Reunion. Then it happened. Kenny Meyer served with tion. After Sicily, many of us men paid nation of space by our The "Jan-Feb." issue of The me on the 60th Combat were transferred to the And the valiant effort each President in the last few Octofoil arrived and I could Team in the No. Africa land- Third Division that was en GJ. made issues, which I understand is hardly believe the Presi­ ing. I personally earned 8 route to Salerno, Italy. As a That conflict and discord at the cost of denying some dent's attitude about the battle stars, a few spear- result, we are now members we'll forever cease members a chance to have future of our Association. heads, and some stripes - of both societies. When the Is the hope of all along with their letters published. If anyone had any doubt so much for credentials - Santos problem was printed endless peace. , I have been told that I as to how "Red" Phillips Now for some common- in the Third Division Thus it is that this reunion of have served in more differ­ feels about perpetuating our sense rationale. "Watch," we asked what did minds and hearts ent companies than anyone Association, the answer was This Association was cre- the Ninth do in Vietnam that Is what sets the "Old else in the 90th Division and all there on the first page in ated because WE shared our was so shameful? Did they Reliables apart. therefore might be at least the "President's Corner." common experiences, shar- desert in the face of the For the comradeship that all somewhat qualified to These are his own words. "If ed the fears and the tears, enemy? Was it cowardice? displayed express an opinion. the Membership turns down shared our laughs and exul- What joins us with the draft Can but have been Heaven­ The companies that I his proposal (letting the tations. WE were thrown dodgers, the slackers and made. served with, in order of ser­ Vietnam vets in) then I think TOGETHER from all points, the spitters on our boys that Joseph Rappazini vice were: 9th Signal, we should pick a date and went through all the above causes us to back away from 24001 Sherman St. Cannon Company 47th, C. place for the '97 Annu~1 emotions, and became ollr comrades? I. for one, Oak Park. MI 48237-1822 Co. 47th, Regimental Hdqs Meeting which would be m known as "The Ninth Infan- think they were magnificent Co. K, 60th Inf. 47th (where I was Regimen­ try Division Ass'n" - that's in the face of overwhelming effect a wake." What he's Co.it..; 15th Engrs tal S2), Service Co. 47th, B really ~aying here, If he can't OUR name because WE were pressure. Co. 47th, and 9th Division the ones who associated In the Third Division Robert Hughes have it his way, the 9th Inf. 7900 Gayway Drive Hdqs Co. Div. Ass'il. should fold up WITH EACH OTHER. Society we do not worry Many of the men I served Now that we are thinning about the lights being Louisville, KY 40219 and cease to exist. Is this Dear Dan: with attend the reunions and what we want to happen just" out, acknowledging that we turned off in 1997. We still it is my opinion that the won't be around for much carry nine World War I vets I'm no letter writer but I because the President can't feel obligated to express my major reason for attending is have it his way? longer, is it our aim to leave on our roster. The Korean to renew old friendships our name to another group War vets are riow assuming anger at those who for the The truth is that our umpteenth time are trying to with buddies who shared Association can go on of men? That honored name leadership roles and the common experiences and to then becomes a mere label young Gulf War vets can't ruin our fine association by whether or not the Bylaws trying once more to open relive WWII happenings. Not are changed. However don't for those who fought a dif- get enough of our war sto­ for any other reason ­ ferent war, with different ries. I do not want the lights the gate valve that would put too much faith in the break up the Ninth Infantry except for a few who seem Vietnam vets' willingness to - experiences, with different turned off for the Ninth to have other objectives. buddies, with a "label" th~t because too much of my Division Association of join and support any organi­ World War Two that you and I am a life member and zation. Remember what hap­ doesn't begin to fire up their youth is tied up in its valor. have attended many feelings for that same name. Let us welcome the battle- so many other fine, dedicat­ pened to their own Associa­ ed members have worked so reunions. As I live in Alaska tion. Most Veteran Organiza­ No, I believe that OUR tried men who fought in in the summer - it is a long, Association is entitled, as we Vietnam. hard for for so many years. tions are open to them but We all owe you and the expensive trip. there is not much effort on are, to a dignified ending. It I wonder if I would feel accomplished our aims and -"4-7th Inf D Co. other dedicated members their part to join. For this who have given so much of like making the trip if the reason I feel that we should purpose while WE were able IRWIN DUPUY character of the association yourselves more than we leave our By-Laws as they to fuel it.. 12233 N. Yorkdale Dr. was changed. Do others feel can ever repay. are. There is no reason for At whatever pomt deemed Baton Rouge, La. 70811-1240 I'm a gambling man and that way? If so, it could lead all this aggravation. appropriat~ (by a general I have been looking for respect the law of averages to the breakup of one of the Another matter, we never membership vote;. not ~ years for members of "D" Co. finest organizations I have micro-repre~entatlon so if by some miracle the had a problem finding a 0 47th to appear in the paper, vote goes the wrong way it ever had the privilege of Reunion site in the past and those attendmg a conven- but ~aybe it's a good thing I being a member of. will be the fuse that sets off we'll always manage as long tion) . t?en sh?uld the get no more. I am snakebite, yet one more bomb and How many times must we as there's any of us left. I ASSOCiatIOn be dismantled, I seem to put the English lan- serve as notice that a move reject changing our by-laws trust that the Good Lord will and not turned ~ver to an ua e in such a way as to to repeal Red's victory at to admit others? What is the allow us a few more years. alien group, who m another rosegthem. I am sorry if that next year's reunion. Forgive objective of those who want When the time comes that time, in another ~~r., were is the case. Anyway I want to me comrades for presenting changes? we will no longer be able to named the 9th DIVISIOn by wish everyone a merry this threat though I don't I recall Gen. Westmor­ carryon, He'll let us know. chance. Christmas and a happy New land's speech at Washing­ think I'm alone with this CALL OR WRITE A Year! I have never written, idea. ton, D. C. urging us to admit One final observation, nor spoken to the detriment, veterans of other wars, and seems strange that on the When the time comes that first page of our Octofoil, the FRIEND - nor lied intentionally to any- we must turn off the light I his resigning from our ENCOURAGE HIM one. association when we refused President advocates the end opt for Henry Santos' idea of our Association if the I am sorry I can't make for perpetuation but let's to do as he recommended. I TOJOIN THE your wonderful meetings, thought his action was child­ ByLaws aren't changed and not be too hasty and heed ish. on the last page our dedicat­ ASSOCIATION, but I am physically disabled. Judge Advocate Dan Heller's From time to time we have to put articles seDt iD by Perhaps his action would ed Secretary making his statement, "we're not dead earnest plea for paid up our members on the back burner because of lack of yet." be a good choice for those space. As we get older more members are writing at~ who do not like us as we are dues so that we can carry on. ries that are longer (always interesting) but space in and have been for over 50 our 8 page publication is kind of Hmited. Please try to years. Best wishes to you and Marie and keep up the good understand, if your letter does not appear in this issue In case you have any we,will make sure it does in the following Octofoils. lV1':,'.. J:J.. doubt -I will vote against work. God willing we'll all be ... - . . It",; ..... any change in our status at together again at The Concord. ;... .. " the next reunion. \"'.'1 P.S. Rose is doing OK and Deadline for next issue July 20th -_. .- -- she sends her best regards. __ THE OCTOFOIL

President's Report Taps Sounded DOWN MEMORY lANE Continued from last issue Continued from page 1 CO A- 15th ENGRS Call out or names tlrst U.S. Army (Lt. Gen. Courtney H. Hodges command­ as the years go by­ JOHN M. MAULE ing) had the opportunity, but not the foresight, in early Remember us- 124 Bear Lake Road September 1944 to bypass both Aachen and the and we will nenr die Muskegon, MI 49445 Huertgenforst to seize the Roer River dams from the rear Someone said it was my turn to write to the OCTOFOIL. and finesse the flooding problem. After the Normandy With deep remorse we an­ Red Phillips has written some nice books that are well breakout, Hodges' First Army had roared across France, noun~e the passing" of these worth reading. I read every article in the OCTOFOIL. friends and comrades. GERMANY covering more ground more quickly than his colorful May they rest in peace. rival, George S. Patton with his Third Army. Reaching the To their loved ones we ex­ One time when we crossed the Seegfried line into German-Belgian frontier, however, Hodges grew cautious, tend 8ur det"pest s)·mpathy. Germany, I went up behind a U.S. tank carrying a full careful of his flanks. Looking at that big blob of green of wooden case of TNT with the case just opened on the his map, he might have thought back to 1918 and another Ed Machowski corners and a pull igniter in opposite corners. There was damp and dreary forest full of German machine guns. In Med.47th a steel-domed pillbox about Tx3' sticking out of the Hodges' view it was no longer time to be by-passing. ground. It had about six square port holes. Our tank fired Miller notes that the tactical significance of the Roer Daniel Mazeika and knocked a big machine gun out of one port hole. The River dams seems to have been lost on all of the U.S. 26 FA. BBly tank fired about 8 armor piercing shells at the steel intelligence moguls except one. On 2 October '44, Lt. Col. bunker and all they did was pierce it about one inch. The Jack A. Houston, the 9th Infantry Division's G2, reported Bert Osterhout # tank was about 25 yards from the steel pillbox. The tank that the Schwammenauel dam and powerhouse were "tar­ M Co. 60th In!. quit firing, then I went up to the pillbox with the whole gets of great importance." Miller states that Houston case of TNT. I pulled two igniters and ran and got behind alone understood the consequences of the dams to Charles Williams the tank. A big blast, but all it did was blow the camou­ future operations and he maintains it was tragic that F Co. 47th In!. flage off the pillbox. The dust sure did fly. I often think Houston's comment was all but ignored for weeks. how lucky I was not to get blown up myself. In the meantime, the 9th's 47th Infantry, by slipping Joseph Koeppel They also thought I must be an expert with the. through the forest just inside its edge with the more open Servo Co. 39th In!. Bazooka. In England, I had one shot with the Bazooka at a Stolberg corridor, managed to pass completely through dead tank from ancient history. In Africa, with about 16 of the Siegfried Line's belt of obstacles, for the most part, Arthur Vollkommer us, they sent us up a mountain of rocks at night. I carried unopposed. The Germans had not yet scraped together 39th In!. the Bazooka with four shells. When we got on top of that enough manpower to occupy every pillbox. For their rock pile, the only way a German tank could get to us was part, once on the far side of the German's' prepared Boyd Allen if it had wings. . defeftses, the 47th literally "ran out of gas." The regiment E Co. 39th In!. On July 11, 1944, our platoon in France set up a hne dug in on good defensive positions about the town of behind a hedge row. We had all our vehicles with us. Schevenhutte, only six miles from the Roer River. Richard Kress # About 3:00 a.m. the Germans counter-attacked with tanks Once the Americans stopped and dug in, enemy coun­ CoK 39th In!. and foot soldiers yelling "Hey, Yanks, surrender!" The terattacks of steadily increasing size and ferocity started. Germans were also shooting flares up ahead of them so Soon, all three battalions of the 47th were committed to Sal Luzzo they could see, and it really lit up the area. It started to the defense of the Schevenhutte "finger." Defense of the Meds. 47th Inf get light, and we moved another couple hundred yards "homeland" brought forth a very different German soldier East. We ran into one of our mortar PIts. William Deme than met earlier. He might be younger or older, lame or COLONEL GUNN crippled, poorly trained but generally dedicated to stop­ The Lt. of the mortars showed our Lt. on the map Amold Branch # ping us right there. where we were and how he got in there. Our Lt. left the A Co. 60th Inf Back southeast of Zweifall, the 9th's 39th and 60th PIt in charge of a Sgt. and he called me over. He said just Regiments had plunged into the dark and dripping the two of us were going back and find the 39th 2nd Victor Sobek # woods, headed directly for the dams of which Houston Battalion CPo Why me? I was in the guard house when we 60th Inf had warned. While the 47th had pierced the Siegfried left England for missing a bad check, and I have AWOL on Line with relative ease, men of the other two regiments my discharge papers. We walked a few hundred yards Florence Macindol found themselves in a "green hell," often confounded by and came across one of our tanks, it was either knocked Wife ofJohn Macindol the gloom and careful camouflaging of the enemy defens­ out or stuck in the ditch, because it was empty. We A-Co. 60th Inf es. One veteran complained to Miller that it was "worse walked about another quarter mile and came to the 39th than anything ever experienced before." In ten days, 6-16 2nd Battalion and talked to Colonel Gunn. Earl Lees October '44, in the vicinity of Germeter, the 39th and 60th Col. Gunn told my Lt. to go get our PIt and bring them F Co. 60th Inf gained 3,000 yards at a cost of about 4,500 men to all to the CPo I said, "Who is going with me?" He said, "Go by causes, better than one casualty per yard. Finally wrung yourself." Back I went, past the dead tank and got the Howard Waldman out, the 9th Division, .less its 47th Regiment, was relieved men. One of our observation cub planes was over head, A.T 47th by the 28th Infantry Division and sent to Camp Elsenborn and the Germans were shooting at it. The tracers looked for restoration. #- Denotes non member of like they were going right through it. The cub plane dove The 47th stayed in its holes in and around and picked up speed and got out of there. Association Schevenhutte until 16 November when it was attached as I got our men back to the CPo Our Lt. then gave me a reinforcement of the 1st Infantry Division for its part in bazooka and four shells, and one man to go with me the VII Corps offensive which opened that date. The regi­ Servo Co. 39th Inf. down to the ditch next to the road. I knew I must be an H. H. NISSEN ment, in its turn, was used and abused on this detail. expert shot with the bazooka, because I had fired that 401 Wallingford Ter. Names like Bovenburg Farm and Frenzerburg Castle are one round back in England, before we went to Africa and Union, NJ 07083 mileposts of the story. Finally, what was left rejoined the Sicily. The two of us got in the ditch and we could see the Tel. 1-908-686-9497 9th when the Huertgenforst debacle was interrupted by German tanks in the woods across the road. The fellow I Taps have sounded for the Battle of the Bulge. was with put his gun down and told me that we don't another of our comrades By 1 February '45, First Army was back in its woods, have a chance if those tanks and German soldiers come Joseph Koeppel of Service again crunching head on against formidable German across the road. Just then our P47 planes came in low, Co. 39th Infantry on April 3, defenses protecting the western approaches to the Roer right over our heads. Each plane had two bombs under­ 1996, at age 78. Joe had been River dams. By now, however, with the catastrophe of neath, and when they dropped those bombs, we got cov­ in a nursing home for the the Bulge sinking in, the defenders were about ready to ered with dirt. As the planes were machine gunning the past 5 1/2 yrs. toss in the towel. But there was still time to involve the Germans, I thought we were going to get hit. The tracers Joe was a native of North 9th once again. On 9 February, General Craig was called were just a few yards over our heads. One bomb hit at Bergen, N.J. He served in the upon to take over a lagging effort by the 78th Infantry the bottom of a tank and it rolled the tank several times. 39th Int. from Jan. 1941 thru Division to seize the Schwammenauel facility. This job A Sgt. told me that Fran Hartzell and I had been wound­ to the end of the war with was finally done by units of the 78th, but operating under ed so many times that it would be hard to keep track of eight battle stars. He was a the 9th's direction and control. them. When a Medic or first aid station puts a patch on T/4, in charge of mainte­ Edward G. Miller has done a wonderful job with his you, nobody keeps record. I did get the purple heart nance mechanics. book. His research, (including interviews of a number of when I got wounded on the ship going to Normandy. I Joe was my "Buddy" and 9th vets like Billy Allsgood of F/39, Bob Pettee, Hq 47th, also got the purple heart when I had four of our men and my best man when I got mar­ Chip Maness 2/47, Bill Cowan G/60, and Bill McWaters twenty mines on a Cannon Co. half track with about a ried in1946. and Chester Jordan of K/47), was meticulous. Miller calls dozen men. It was raining and dark, about midnight. A big Joe's family and I would the shots accurately; there was a way around to the Roer shell hit the half track, killed two, and wounded all but appreciate if you would list River dams. Maneuver had a chance in early September two. I wrote to the Veteran's Administration several years his passing on in the next when th~ 47th led the way. The moment called for the ago to see if I had anything else to add on my discharge. issue of the Octofoil. tactical wit to recognize the opportunity authority suffi­ A year or so later I got an answer back that told me no. I cient to back the play and then dash. It was time for a The enclosed check to still have two small pieces of shrapnel in me, but they do Patton/Eddy combo, not that of the pedestrian Hodges memorial fund in memory of not bother me. Continued next issu~ arid Collins. Arthur Schneider. I purpose­ Co. I 39th Inf. *** enjoyed the reunions. ly waited to see if anyone J. C. DAWSON B-Co 15th Engrs. B Co 15th Engrs Enclosed is a donation to from the Fla. Chapter would P.O. Box 622 BOBAPEL ALFERRANTE the Memorial Fund in his memorialize Art, a really Decatur, Tx. 76234 9424 Harding Blvd. nice guy, Hqrs. 39th. 35 Cove Ave. memory. I just wanted to let you Wauwatosa, Wi. 53226 Framingham, MA 01701 I had a letter from Ed. know that another great Enclosed check for anoth­ I am writing to inform the 60th Inf. E Co. Boyle, A Co. 15th Engrs. who heart has stopped beating. er 3 years and a donation to Octofoil and friends that Bill JAMES GENTILE responded to a "looking for My husband J.C. Dawson the Memorial Fund in memo­ Davidson passed away on Box 273 survivors of the Leedstown," Co. I 39th Int. passed away ry of Tony Madonna of B Co. Dec. 23, 1995 in Florida. Bill Oak Creek, Co. 80467 in the DAV magazine. (I on March 1, 1996. 15th Engrs. Hoping you and was formerly from I'm sending three years missed that one). He loved his fellow com­ yours and all 9th Div. mem­ Cambridge, MA and served membership payment. Louis Martschinske, rades of Co. I like a brother. bers had a blessed Christ­ in the 15th Engr B Co. from Received the Nov.-Dec. 5426 Zealand Ave. And enjoyed getting to mas and healthy New Year Feb. 1941 to the end of the Octofoil but have not seen Minn., MN 554- - meet with them at 3 of their - hoping to make the 1996 war. any names in it that I recog­ Henry Santos reunions. This after 48 years reunion in New York. Until his failings a few nize so far. 9811 N. Connechusett Rd or more. years ago he attended and Tampa, FL 33617-4517 THE OCTOFOIL

K Company 47th lof. 15th Engrs. B La. 9th Recon. Troop RICHARD C. McGRATH K Co. 47th Inf. GORDON H. ANDERSON JOSEPH J. KILLACKY DARK AND BLOODY 2856 West 85th Street 1302 Jeannette St. Chicago, Illinois 60652 1039 Warner Ave. #2 Des Plaines, IL 60018-1509 Lemont, II. 60439 There is a new book out about the BATTLE OF THE The Octofoil came today I wish to renew my mem­ HURTGEN FOREST, written by ED MILLER and titled, "A and it was a "Bonanza". I had I note its time to re-up ­ bership which is about to so sign me on for three more DARK AND BLOODY GROUND." I have corresponded with to blink a couple of times to run out at the end of this and had several phone conversations with ED, and I sus­ make sure that what I hoped years - the good Lord will­ year. ing. pect that "BULL SESSIONS" had a good bit to do with get­ I saw was really what I had Sorry we did not get to see Hope you and Marie ting "K" mentioned. I have not read the book, but my old­ seen. you at the last two reunions est son has read the Jordan excerpts, and RED PHILLIPS After all these years of enjoyed a nice holiday sea­ however we expect to be at son. wrote to say the Ed had put SHERIDAN back in "K." receiving the paper B Co. the Concord in '96. Ed is a Major in ORDINANCE, currently stationed at the 15th Engineers had seven Had a nice visit with Dick Was proud of the fact that McGrath and Fran just prior Pentagon, who seems to be a hell of a nice fellow. I comrades sending in contri­ John O'Grady, a former 9th believe that WILLIE and the fall of COMMUNISM are caus­ butions, it was hard to to Christmas. They are Recon. Troop member, has doing fine. ing him to reassess his chosen profession. The first time I believe, but glad it was true. served in the post of talked with him, I asked if he had found one good rea~on Especially good to hear from . Last week I visited with President of the Assoc. Bill Stokan for a couple of for sending anyone into the Hurtgen Forest. At that time Bill Davidson and Frank I'm sure he did a good job he hadn't, perhaps he unraveled the mystery before he Rankin after they being hours in Pittsburgh. He and I respect him in taking looks fine and is doing well. I went to press. A.W.O.L. for such a long on this position. One thing, that both the Americans and Germans foun.d time. Also on board is Bob was in Pittsburgh for the We in the Illinois Chapters burial of my sister. out, and "K" proved time and agam at SCHEVENHUTTE, IS MandIe, Ernie Minka, Bob are subject to thinning ranks Best of luck in 96. that the forest loves DEFENSE and hates OFFENSE. Apel, and even a picture of and welcome any new com­ fa~, Although I haven't read it, the best book title by is Art Schmidt in a group on ers who care to partake in 47th Inf. B Co. one written by a paratrooper from the 82nd. The title: the front page - mustn't our get togethers. ED SARNOCINSKI "ITS MY WAR AND I'LL REMEMBER IT ANYWAY I WANT." forget Paul Lisa who like Bob We have had members 246 Estate Dr. sent donations to the attend our gathering as far Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 K-9 MEN Memorial Fund to honor away as Pennsylvania, Another buddy out of B RED THOMPSON seems to be feeling better as he pre­ Tony Madonna. Tony will Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio Co. 47th has passed on. pares for his JILLIONITH trip to Las Vegas. You can always be remembered as a and would like mor·e to Robert Edie, was a great sol­ always use a few more dollars and he could probably use leader that took care of his attend. dier to his country. a few more pounds. men first. Med. Det. 1st Bn. 60th Inf. Anna his wife, a great one I recently assisted him in putting his memoirs in order. Also, noticed that there at that, brought Robert to a They were surprisingly short for an eighty-five year old were 3 Engineers from A 9th Med Bn. DR. R.M. HUMMEL couple of our conventions, man but who's counting. As a matter of fact, he could company, represented with wheelchair and all. What a probably make more money, than in Las Vegas, by suing writings in this issue. Ron 2411 Lommel Lane Marion, IN 46952 great pair of troopers. He the US government for putting him in a rifle company Murphy another class guy will be missed by many! OVER AGE. I had several Lieutenants, in their late twen­ who was with C Company of It is now 1996 and I can't think of a better way to start Robert passed away Dec. ties and early thirties, who came to me and said they the 15th Engrs. had his usual 16, 95 at age 81. He was an were just too old to continue. Evidently the AID STATION it off than by paying my 9th great write up about the extraordinary person to Worcester Memorial which Div. Association dues. agreed with them, because they never returned to."K." know and showed exem­ JOE KILLACKEY is still hitting the links every time the is coming up in September. In spite of the many hard and difficult days and the plary strength throughout snow melts down to a foot. He keeps his summer trim by I hope all these Engineer his many years of physical flying off to Arizona e~er:y week or so to play. He keeps comrades is a preview that occasional changes by General Patton, highlighted suffering. saying he's coming to visit me and try his luck at LSU, but upcoming Octofoils will be God Bless him! so far, all it's been is talk. covered with their interest­ by his polished helmet, pis­ He said that CORVINO was having some lung problems. ing letters, I sure ho.pe so., tols and own style of pro­ 9th Signal Seems impossible for a .fellow who only smokes ten packs It was a sad note that I for­ fane language,' some of my EVERETT SPINK a day. got to enclose a donation to greatest experiences, during 4280 Monte Vista Way the Memorial Fund in memo­ my 3 years with the division, Cosby, TN 37722 BATILE STATS ry of Matt Urban, Mike have proved to be the great­ Enclosed is check for my My German historian has a direct pipeline to all Kauffman, and Lindsey est in my life. '96 dues. As a member of the American Army records of WW II. Recently he sent me Nelson. Will correct that I retired in 1991 after 50 9th Signal Co. and the 9th two documents of more than passing interest. . right now. It's getting harder years of medical practice Division Association, I wish The first was a breakdown of casualties for the 47th ~nt. for me to remember what I but not everything has been to make the follOWing com­ Rgt, from its landing in France to the 30th of Sept. To gl~e forgot!! Ha!! pleasant because of the loss ment about changing By you K Men perspective, on the 30th we had been In Thanks for all your good of my beloved wife 3 years Laws to admit the New Schevenhutte for about two weeks. hard work in putting out the ago, but many of my friends Reliables. The list is for the 21 outfits that made-up the 47th and Octofoil. A banner year in have done much to support It would seem that for lack had a breakdown of officers and enlisted men wounded in 96. The Nov., Dec. 1995 issue me in my slow adjustment to of something better to do at action, killed in action, died of wounds, and missing in gets 4 Stars & Thumbs Up. a somewhat lonesome day the convention business ses­ action. To simplify, I have tabulated all as casualties, at by day living with my good sion they have to rehash the least they were not available for duty for awhile. Looking· Co. M. 60~ Inf. memories. old resolution adding the at the bottom line of 163 officers and 2,760 EM, it doesn't EDWIN LUSK Best wishesand good luck new 9th to the Old Reliables. seem all that bad for 21 outfits over a period of 113 days. 131 Auburn Rd. to everyone. I do not think much of the That figures out as 25.8 people per day or 1.2 people per Indian Springs, AL 35124 way they are solving the outfit per day. Piece of cake. But, narrow the focus, it Enclosed are my dues for 39th Inf. D Co. problem. I think all dues looks almost as bad as it was. 1996. I enjoy reading the ANDREW BALASCHAK paying members should be The table of organization of an infantry regiment at that Octofoil very much and 330 Boyer St. included in the vote. time called for 139 officers,S warrant officers, and 2,974 hearing about some of the Johnstown, PA 15906 I would suggest that those Enlisted men. That means the 163 officers we lost was men I served with. My records indicate my who cannot attend reunions 117% of our allocation. There is no mention of warrant The ranks are thinning fel- membership expires in Dec. because of financial, health officer loss, but the 2,760 EM we lost in 113 days was 93% lows. Keep well. 1995. Please apply enclosed or personal reasons be fran­ check to 3-year membership. of our quota. Div. Hqs. chised by ballot in Octofoil. To get down to where the rubber hits the road, we'll My wife 'Ethel' and me had This way they could end the ANTHONY JAKUBIAK a great time in New Orleans take the three battalions separately. Each battalion to 1324 Sumner Ave. vote once and for all and allow 35 officers and 836 EM. with all the old buddies. stop the discrimination. Schenectady, NY 12309 We have made reserva­ 1st Battalion - 37 of or 106%, 731 EM or 87%. Enclosed find dues for 96, I hope this note starts a 2nd Battalion - 61 of or 174%, 873 EM or 104%. tions for the 51st Reunion in new train of thought and 97, and 98. I'd like to say New York at the Concord 3rd Battalion - 49 of or 140%, 954 EM or 114%. hello to my buddies Dave remember some survive and' Obviously, all of the specialized companies had fewer Hotel. others don't. Goodman and Vic Daumit. I Hoping to see you all in casualties than the rifle companies. Even the weapons have moved from Amster­ companies in each battalion ran a third to a half of most June. K Co. 60th Inf. dam, N.Y. and my new JAMES F. 'HART rifle companies. The loser of losers was E Company with address is above. a total of 337 O&M, second was K Company with 280, and 7 Nenagh Dr. third was F with 228. Wilmington, DE 19803 One of the strange, and unexplained things was the few Well it's that time of year MIA's, except for C Company which had 10 and 72EM. again to wish you and your The Medical Detachment was second in this field with 10 family the best in 1996 and and 21EM. many more. It is also the I had a disagreement with a couple of guys at the time to again thank you and reunion about the top losers in the war. They said the Marie for your dedication to VFW MagaZine or some such rag had the 9th, fourth or our great Association. fifth. My stats are from "Order of Battle-US Army WW II" Without you and several by Shelby L. Stanton. His list of losers goes like this: others I am sure we would 1. 3rd Int. 24,324; 2. 4th Int. 22,225; 3. 9th. Int. 21,922; 4. have been past history a 29th. Inf. 20,327; 5. 1st. Int. 19,488; 6. 45th. Inf. 18,521; 7. long time ago. 36th. Int. 16,828; 8. 2nd Int. 16,273. Happy to read that Cliff As I pointed out in BS, I am not sure whether this is a Barbanel is heading the measure of exposure or incompetence. California Chapter. He was my CO in K Co. when I was a e.H. Jordan Platoon Leader Exec. Off. 1996 Reunion 1058 West Lakeview Dr. Good man. Concord Hotel Ba!OIl Rouge~ LA, 70810 Pat Maisto send this pic of the 15th Engs (Co A) taken at All the best to all the gang. New York closing days of the War in Europe. He did not ID any of the men. THE OCTOFOIL

oOth Inf. H Co. SEEKING -4 RICHARD IRWIN :l: Ij m 2155 E. Hammond Lk. Dr. DR. HENRY GOODALL, I -: Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 M.B.B.S., A.F.O.M. _ C I had a pleasant surprise 9 Chetwynd Road, I ; n Co. F., 60th Info Co. E 39 Infantry last week, in the mail was Bassett, Southampton, I ~ -4 BRAYTON P. WILLIS, SR. (n John W. Miller the November-December S02 3JA, U.K. 0 17278 105th Avenue I- ;. 1511 Cochise Dr. copy of The Octofoil, the Dear Mr. Quinn, tt It Arlington, Tx. 76012 Sun City, AZ 85373 first time I have received an I enclose a copy of my let- ~ So z • 0" 9th Division Comrades, I have enclosed an obitu­ issue since way last summer ter dated 11 th April 1991 ;... ? ary for John L. Babbitt who If you were inducted in the when I asked why The Ninth requesting assistance and ~ r- was in Battery A, 26th FA .:- service 55 years ago from Infantry Division did not information regarding from I ~ "-' the northeast, I'm sure you'll Battalion who died on 0 ! ... have a permanent memorial The 9th Infantry Division i ..... -, .- remember January 7, 1941, Wednesday, January 10. '-, in Europe and also suggest­ Association Secretary at •f. ." '-: Fort Dix, N.J. It was cold, John and I went to school a.... c: :J ed that before all of us old '...: Fort Lewis, Washington, . !: '- about 15 degrees on the together and after gradua­ guys check out, we ought to regarding the best way in f;' .~ lonely, windy flats of Fort tion my next meeting with i » _. invite the members of The which I might pursue my I:. - -- John was on a hill overlook­ -' Dix, N.J. My brother and I Ninth Division who served in enquires to locate former i 8 - reported to the Walton, N.Y. ing the City of Troina, Sicily. Vietnam to join the Fellow Officers of my late z Draft Board at 08:00. There, My platoon was on the hill Association. father, Capt. Henry N. ~ we met Bill Nichols. After replacing another platoon In regards to the Vietnam Blanchard Jr., 9th Signal processing we boarded a who had suffered severe veteran's issue, I still see no Company, 9th Infantry i train for Albany, N.Y. and casualties. There were three reason why these fellows Division, who was killed in ~ sworn in there and on to machine gun nests and a who were drafted into this action in Normandy, France Fort Dix. German tank with an 88 that hellish police action should on 17th June 1944. had us pinned down as close During processing at Fort. not be accepted into The I wrote to them four years 60th Inf. F Co. to the ground as we could Dix I met my cousin, Lyman Ninth Infantry Division ago but was disappointed CLIFFORD PAINTER get. Emrich who volunteered, as Association. At least in our not to have received a reply. 140 Hawthorne Rd. we had. After tests and pro­ A Forward Observer from War, we fought it to win it. In I am now writing to you in Washington, Pa. 15301 the 26th Field was only a few cessing we were assigned Vietnam, nobody knew what the hope that you will be Thanks for keeping the yards from my CPo I yelled quarters, tents (6 men per they were doing over there. able to help me in my quest. Octofoil alive and giving us over, Lieutenant, can't you tent), wood floors, small I didn't realize Red Phillips My father graduated from all the opportunity to com­ hit anything? And he in metal stove in center, fold­ was President of the West Point in 1941. After he municate with our 9th Div. return yelled back, if you ing cots with several blan­ Association because I hadn't was killed, my mother, who comrades. Realize that it is think you can do any better, kets, pillow, etc. In order to gotten issues of The was from Winchester, time to get my dues for the keep warm someone had to you come over here and give Octofoil, so my congratula­ England, married again four next three years sent in fire stove all night. In our it a try. I crawled to his posi­ tions to him, I am sure he is years later, to an English before I get the telltail tent there was my brother, tion and 10 and behold, his doing a good job as he cer­ farmer. I was brought up in notice. I've enclosed my radio operator was the same Henry, J.P. Nehr, Bill tainly wrote a good book England and studied medi­ check. John Babbitt. Nichols, Gus Pappas and I about the Bridge at cine. For F Co. men and wives We had a brief chat and believe George Pedrick. We Remagen. I am in regular touch with there is some rather sad resumed our duties. Two all got acquainted real quick. I had a little health prob­ my father's former class­ news. I had a note from days later, during the final The next day we were issued lem last summer (prostate), mates and by their kind invi­ Bernie Wilder's daughter-in­ attack, I was hit in the hel­ G-I clothing CWWO, wrap leg­ and couldn't get away, but, tation attend their four-year­ law informing me that gings, rh,oes and most cloth­ met with a tumbling will certainly try to plan my ly reunions, the next being Bernie's widow, Laura, ing didn't fit. We looked like machine gun bullet and man­ activities better this year due in May 1996. Some of his passed away Oct. 27, 1995. misfits for sure. aged somehow to survive. than last, hopefully, to letters home which were Bernie and Laura last attend­ On the third day we On my yearly trips to my include the convention in written to my Great Uncle in ed a reunion at Lake Placid hometown, I heard that John learned where we were New York State. Indianapolis, have recently in 1994. Then a few days was in very poor health so I assigned. My brother, been passed on to me. My later I had a note from Bill made my yearly trip to New A Co. 60th Div. Hdqs. Henry, Fort Benning, enquires among the 'Class of McLean. His dad, Lt. Keith England to his hOflle in roL. JOHi'! \VESSMILLER. Al dlOred Division. Lyman '41' from West Point have McLean, 746th Tank Bn had Berkly, Mass. I was deeply 11 Wequasset Way Emrich and I were assigned not revealed any leads to or died Oct. 11, 1995 and was saddened by his death. Chatham, MA 02683 to Fort Bragg, 9th Int. details of the people men­ buried in Arlington Your records will show Enclosed is a check for Division. All members of my tioned in his letters home Cemetery Oct. 26. that he loved the 9th Dues. Thank you for your tent were assigned to Fort from North Africa, Sicily and It is always sad to learn of Division and was a sub­ devotion to the 9th Division Bragg and we all' ended up France, namely a Lt. Arnold, the death of friends who are scriber to the.OCTOFOIL. family. Your perseverance assigned to Co F., 60th has made it possible that we 'Doc' Hackradt and Lt. part of our wartime memo­ Infantry. K Co. 60th Info are all still close to our fel­ Hancock. Unfortunately ries. I hope it will encourage During processing we ROBERT H. RUCKER low Octofoils. their first names or initials all of you who can to attend were ordered around by 5055 W. Panther Creek Drive As I progress with the are not mentioned in the the Reunion this summer. some grumpy old sergeants The Woodlands, TX 77381 aging procedure, more and letters. Old father time will catch up and 1st Sgts. Little did we Thanks for the special more I realize that the high­ If vou are able to help in with all of us in time, even realize that two years later mailing of the last two issue~ light of my life, ages 20-24 any ~ay, br are able to pass those of us who seemingly we would all be wearing of THE OCTOFOIL. I apprecI­ was spent with the men in A on to these former Officers have been blessed with stripes on our sleeves or ate your restoring my name Co the 60th and in Div. (assuming they are still alive good health. bars on our shoulders. to the mailing list as I have Hdqs. These were years and can be traced) copies of Had cards and notes from By January 1943 I was 1st been a Life Member since when I experienced the joys, this correspondence, I most of the F Co. people Sgt., Co. F., 60th, later a 1st the first time that I learned excitement, and tragedies of should be most grateful. I who have been attending Lt. George Pedrick went to of the organization. If I need life. All incidents that could would very much welcome reunions over the past few OCS and later was assigned to send more money, let me never be attained, but in the correspondence from them. years. My card to Joe to 39th Infantry as a Captain. know as I will only be able to 9th. Never can I forget my Also, if the Division has a Schidel was returned twice, Gus Pappas transferred to keep up by THE OCTOFOIL. drivers Hall Foss, Dave written record or history once from Fla. and once 82nd Airborne, was 1st Sgt. If any member of K Co. Brogner and Ole Kistler. covering the period 1943­ from Ohio, so don't know and jumped on D-Day at St. 60th was on Carolina maneu­ Their deaths are still a part 1944 available to someone where or how he is. Mere Eglise. J.P. Nehr went vers with a Pvt., later of me, and night seldom such as myself, the son of a Rosalie and I have been to OCS and as 1st Lt. fought Corporal Gregory A. Mueller passes without my thoughts Former Officer, I would be enjoying our winter in Fla. in France. Bill Nichols stayed' and I believe OCS in August turning to them and my grateful if you could advise and send our sympathy to with Co. F., 60th for 8 cam­ of 1942, please write to his deep sadness at their loss. me of details of how I may all of you who have had to paigns. Lyman Emrich trans­ son, Mark G. Mueller, 2820 How many men of the 9th obtain a copy. suffer through the snow, ferred to Air Force and was a So. Williams Street, Denver, share this feeling!! Keep up Thanking you in anticipa- rain, floods, and cold up tail gunner on a B-17. Colorado 80210-6335. He has the good work tion of a helpful reply. north. Hope it will be warm Fortunately, even though some pictures of a Thomas 16" of snow on the ground Yours Faithfully, and dry when we get to The we went where the army Schwartz and Smith. I have and still snowing. Henry Goodall Con'Cord in June. sent us, we served our coun­ about nailed Smith down as 60th Inf Again I would urge all F try with honor, were dis­ O.T. Smith of the kitchen LEONARD A. MANICCA C Co. 9th Med:ffiOth Co. me,,} who (an attend the charged at the end of WW II force. Thomas could have 110 Erie St. CHALMUSL.COCHRAN 1996 Reunion - See you at and pursued careers in civil­ been with the 9th for the Oswego, N.Y. 13126 Post Office Box 6 the Concord. ian or military whatever we entire war. Enclosed your will find a Cherry Log, GA 30522 felt we were most suited for. Another one of our sons check for $10.00 to get rein­ Enclosed check is to cover 60th Inf. Serv Co. During my service with desperately seeking some­ stalled to the 9th Division 3-year membership dues and FRED GOLUB Co. F., 60th Infantry I made one who might have known Infantry Association. I was a some for Memorial Fund. 21 Lenore Ave. great friends which I still his father. It's been a long member up until Dec. 31, How we have let dues Monsey, N.Y. 10952 correspond with to this time and none of us are as 1954, cqrd #552. Also en­ lapse is a mystery - sure Enclosed is my check for date. sharp as we once thought closed you will find a copy hope not to miss .further dues for 1996. During my 25 years ser­ we were. But, if you can help discharge records and ser­ issues of The OCtOfOll. We hope you are both well vice I've made great friends this young man, he would ?e vice time. The Memorial is in honor and "enjoying" this winter and served with great offi­ grateful. He has some pIC- Thanks very much. of good friend John H. Lewis weather. _ Co. "C" 9th Med. Bn. cers and men, but none as tures. I am happy to say Selma great as those I served with MRS. J. C. DAWSON We have enjoyed our and I are getting along with­ in the 9th Infantry Division. Regt Hdq Co. 39th Inf 9 Div P.O. Box 622 Battalion reunions each year out too many complaints. PAUL POTTS Decatur, Tx. 76274 but haven't made National I enj oy receiving the 1996 Reunion 2100 Norton Lane Thank you for the card. "Octofoil" and look forward Concord Hotel Bedford In 47421 And I'm so glad you are thQ""e_,~!~fa,r~" to seeing everyone at the New York I am sending $10 extra for continuing the Octofoil. We Concord in June. whatever. both had enjoyed it in the .. '. -':- 1;\ past.