MilitaryA Special Publication of the Vilas County News-Review and The Three Lakes News 2015Salute freedom is not free

Active-Duty Military Profiles Soldiers’ Stories Memorial Day Preview Veterans Services PAGE 2 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015

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Nelson’s Hardware Open 7 days a week to serve you 606 E. Wall, Eagle River 715-479-4496 ACE IS THE PLACE WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 3 Memorial Day programs planned in communities across North Woods

Men and women who died in military action for their country will be remem- bered during Memorial Day services Mon- day, May 25, in communities across the North Woods. Veterans, area residents, government officials and North Woods visitors are wel- come to attend all the ceremonies. Veterans organizations in Eagle River, Three Lakes, Land O’ Lakes, Phelps, Rhinelander and Woodruff have provided the following details of Memorial Day weekend programs. The Woodruff program will be Saturday, May 23.

Eagle River The Eagle River Memorial Day ceremo- ny is scheduled for Monday, May 25, at 11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (front grounds of the Vilas County Courthouse) in Eagle River. Ceremony participants are asked to as- semble at 10:45 a.m. at the park. The pro- gram will be held rain or shine. The program will open with the North- land Pines High School band and choir performing the “The Star-Spangled Ban- ner,” followed by the 8th Wisconsin Ar- tillery cannon salute. The Rev. Jim Fosdick will lead the opening prayer. The master of ceremonies will be retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Michael Biszak. Dick Leinenkugel, a U.S. Marine veteran, will be the guest speaker. Other highlights will include bagpipe music by Tom McKale of the Emerald Soci- ety of Wisconsin and the Greater Milwau- kee Fire/Po lice Pipes and Drums, area Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts offering poppies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and an- Communities across the North Woods will have Memorial Day pro- government officials and North Woods visitors are welcome to attend other cannon salute. grams Monday, May 25. Veterans, military personnel, area residents, all of the ceremonies. —NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO Military service songs will be played by the Northland Pines High School band and honor those who have served and given Phelps County Courthouse, where the main the choir will sing “America the Beautiful.” their lives for this country. The Three There will be a Memorial Day service in Memorial Day ceremony will begin at ap- The ceremony will close with the bene- Lakes High School Badger Boy, Randy Phelps Monday, May 25, at 1 p.m. at the proximately 11 a.m. diction by Fosdick, a rifle salute by VFW Zmek, and Badger Girl, Anya Fairchild, cemetery. There will be a roll call for the Guests can take a lawn chair for the cer- Post 8637, the playing of taps, a cannon will speak, and the high school band will dead and flag placement. Guest speaker emony. Guest speaker will be Rhinelander salute and the choir singing “A Parting play. The guest speaker will be Capt. Terry will be State Rep. Rob Swearingen. For up- Mayor Dick Johns, U.S. Army veteran. Blessing.” McKale will conclude the pro- McCloskey, U.S. Navy retired. dated information, contact the Phelps For more information about the court- gram with a bagpipe solo. The program will conclude with the na- Chamber of Commerce at (715) 545-3800. house ceremony and cemetery ceremonies, For more information, contact the Vilas tional flags at the cemetery and Cy contact the Oneida County Veterans Ser- County Veterans Service Office at (715) Williams Park raised to full staff. The pub- Rhinelander vice office at (715) 369-6127. 479-3629. lic is urged to attend. The Oneida County Veterans Council The Oneida County Veterans Council in- In the event of bad weather, the pro- will host a Memorial Day service Monday, cludes members of the American Legion, Three Lakes gram will be held in the Three Lakes May 25. American Veterans, Disabled American Memorial Day in Three Lakes will be School gymnasium at 10 a.m. For informa- Cemetery ceremonies are planned at 8 Veterans, Marine Corps League and Veter- observed Monday, May 25. The program tion about the program, contact the Amer- a.m. at Newbold Cemetery, 8:30 a.m. at ans of Foreign Wars. will start at 10 a.m. with a solemn proces- ican Legion at (715) 546-3431. Northland Memorial Park, 9 a.m. at Forest sion from the Three Lakes Winery down Home Cemetery and 9 a.m. at Our Lord Woodruff Superior Street to the Three Lakes Ceme- Land O’ Lakes Cemetery. The Woodruff American Heroes Parade tery. There will be a Memorial Day service at Beginning at 10:30 a.m., a river ceremo- will be Saturday, May 23, with lineup at The procession will include the Ameri- the Land O’ Lakes cemetery Monday, May ny will be held at the Davenport Street 11:15 a.m. and the parade at noon. The can Legion Color Guard and Firing Squad, 25, at 11 a.m., with a light lunch to follow bridge, where a wreath will be lowered into route will be on Highway 47 from Thrall the Legion Auxiliary, the Three Lakes at the VFW Post 8400. Call the Land O’ the water in honor of those who were lost or Road to Veteran’s Parkway in Woodruff. Lions Club and the Three Lakes High Lakes Chamber of Commerce to confirm buried at sea. There will be a gun salute at the tank School band. service as date approaches at (715) 547- Upon completion, participants and memorial. All veterans are welcome to par- The ceremony at the cemetery will 3432. guests will march and walk to the Oneida ticipate to honor the fallen. PAGE 4 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015

Ellen Hoffman Joel Eicher Ellen Hoffman, a 2014 graduate of Pfc. Joel Eicher graduated from Edgewood High School in Madison, is North land Pines High School in 2014. currently attending U.S. Naval Academy There he enjoyed weightlifting and be- in Annapolis, Md. came successful in reaching his goals. She is a 4/C Midshipman, and will He entered the U.S. Marine Corps in graduate as an Ensign Naval Officer in October of 2014 and successfully grad- the Fleet. This summer she will be attend- uated Marine Corps Recruit Training in ing Fleet week on a Yard Patrol boat, fol- San Diego, Calif., in January 2015. lowed by an international surface cruise. Eicher is currently stationed at After returning to Annapolis, the “Re- Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Fla., form of the Brigade” will take place in undergoing military training to become preparation for the upcoming academic an aircrew member on the NV-22 Os- school year. prey helicopter. Once completed, he She is the daughter of Jo and Mark will be stationed at Marine Corps Air Hoffman and has one brother, Matthew, Station, New River, N.C. all of Fitchburg and Three Lakes. Her grandparents are Joyce and Phillp Hoff- He is the son of James and Deborah man of Madison. Eicher of Eagle River.

Casey K. Pepper Miranda S. Anderson Miranda Anderson, a 2001 graduate of North- Casey K. Pepper is a 2014 gradu- land PInes High School, graduated from Great Lakes in October 2001. There she studied Seaman ate of Northland Pines High School. Apprentice until November 2001, followed by or- ders to DDG81 USS Winston S. Churchill until He is in the U.S. Marines and sta- March 2003. She then studied for one year at tioned at Twentynine Palms Marine Great Lakes Corpsman School, transferring to Corps Base in California. Naval Hospital in Portsmouth,Va., until 2005, when she transferred to Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan, His rank is an E-2 Pfc. until October 2008. She then transferred to Field Medical Battalion at Camp Lejeune, N.C. until March 2009, then to Combat Logistics Battalion 7 His parents are Clint, a former Ma- in Twentynine Palms, Calif. She is currently sta- rine, and Mary Lou Pepper of Eagle tioned at Naval Branch Health Clinic New England, River. He has two older brothers, Tay- Groton, Conn. Her rank is HM2 (SW). lor of Eagle River and Alex who is in She is the daughter of Tim Klaver of Eagle River the U.S. Air Force stationed at Can- and Nancy Klaver of Appleton; granddaughter of non Air Force Base in New Mexico. Carol Klaver of Eagle River; sister of Michael Klaver of Waupun; wife of Chris Anderson; and mother of Jadyn, Joie, Jaxson and Jordyn.

Michael Eicher Thomas Hurtado Cpl. Michael Eicher graduated from North- Thomas Hurtado was first stationed at land Pines High School in 2012, where he Great Lakes and is currently stationed at Ma- played on the basketball team. rine Corps Base in Hawaii. He served with a He entered the U.S. Marine Corps in October medical trauma unit tending to wounded war- of 2012 and successfully graduated Marine riors while in Afghanistan from 2011-’12, and Corps Recruit Training in San Diego, Calif., in was deployed to Japan/South Korea with the Marines in 2013-’14. Hurtado is currently de- January 2013. ployed in the Philippines. He received the He proceeded to North Carolina as a combat Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. engineer and was trained as a heavy equipment He is currently a lieutenant and a physician’s operator. assistant in the U.S. Navy. He recently completed a tour in Afghanistan His family has a strong tradition of military and was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps service. His grandfather, Thomas A. Thiele, Achievement Medal for his work there. served as a Seabee in the U.S. Navy and his He currently is the heavy equipment dis- uncle, Arturo Thiele-Sardina, is a retired patcher in support of the 2nd Marine Division at colonel in the U.S. Army. He and his wife, Jenny, have a 22-month- Camp Lejeune, N.C. old son, Leo Thomas (LT). Jenny is the Michael is the son of James and Deborah daughter of Bob and Patti Sobecke of Eagle Eicher of Eagle River. River and Milwaukee. WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 5 Dr. Jacobson served community and country World War II vet takes Never Forgotten Honor Flight ______BY SONIA DIONNE SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW ______

Four doctors traveled to Washington, but was overwhelmed with patients dur- D.C., aboard the Honor Flight which left ing the summer. Due to the influx of Wausau Monday, April 27 — three prac- tourists, he hired temporary physicians. ticing physicians plus Lewis Jacobson, “Because this would give me a feel for M.D., from Eagle River. family medicine after I graduated, I came Major differences separated the four. here. I made lots of house calls visiting Jacobson is 91, retired, and a World War patients in their lake homes. Some gave II veteran. Jacobson was born in Stafford me rides on their Chris-Crafts; that was Springs, Conn., graduated from George- really nice. One thing led to another and town University in Washington, and I’ve been here ever since,” Jacobson re- earned his degree from Chicago Medical called. School. Returning to Washington, D.C., he As a new physician in 1954, Jacobson’s completed his internship at General Hos- days were filled with an abundance of pital. home visits between Land ‘O Lakes, “I didn’t have any particular location Phelps, St. Germain and Sayner, plus he in which I wished to practice. My wife and held regular office hours in the clinic. I met when she was in nursing school in He admitted the very first patient into Chicago and we married a year after her the newly built Eagle River Memorial graduation,” said Jacobson. “One night we Hospital in 1961 and was on call for the were watching the Ralph Edwards Show emergency room. on television. His guest was Dr. Kate Retiring at age 82, then returning to Newcomb from Woodruff, who earned the work a few more months, he retired a sec- nickname ‘Angel on Snowshoes.’ ond time at age 84. That’s a long career in “My wife said, ‘That’s near my home in medicine! Rhinelander. The North Woods is a beau- tiful place.’ I responded, I wouldn’t be Blitz training in military caught dead up there. Three weeks later, I Then there was his military career. As was in Eagle River,” Jacobson smiled. initially being assigned to the Army’s Meanwhile, Dr. Russell Oldfield prac- Rear Echelon or Support Unit, Jacobson ticed in Eagle River since the early 1920s, received military training at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland where muni- tions of war were evaluated. He spent three months in machinist training before going overseas. However, the Army had different plans. “While visiting Paris, I received orders from headquarters that every Rear Eche- lon Unit was to send 10% of their men for Lewis Jacobson of Eagle River not only served the area as a physician for nearly 50 years, training on the front lines,” said Jacobson. he also served his country during World War II. —Photo By Sonia Dionne “I went through six weeks of blitz train- ing in France. From there, I was sent to was commissioned in the Reserves and Veterans honored Worms, Germany, to replace casualties in went on active duty with the Army to Jacobson recently attended a program the 4th Infantry Division. We fought for train ROTC cadets during summer. Then at Northland Pines High School honoring about two months before the war ended he joined the National Guard. military personnel. During halftime of the May 8, 1945, so my division was relieved Jacobson was in his second year of boys basketball game, each team member by the 101st Airborne Division and we medical school when the Korean War shook his hand and thanked him for serv- were sent to a quieter area around began. He was drafted into the infantry, ing this country. He was presented a cer- Nuremberg to recover from combat.” but was deferred to finish school. Jacob- tificate for a Never Forgotten Honor About 20 of the 40 soldiers in his pla- son was awarded a Combat Infantry Flight that night — a one-day trip for toon survived. Badge, the Bronze Star and two Battle veterans to visit their memorials in “We came home in July 1945 to pre- Stars for his service. Even today, he is Washington, D.C. pare for the Pacific Front. My 4th Divi- still involved with the military as a mem- “I would like to thank the sponsors of sion had been an amphibious division at ber of the American Legion. the Honor Flight for their generous dona- Utah Beach, so we were prepared for the The 4th Infantry Division in which he tion of my trip to Washington, D.C., the kind of war yet to come,” said Jacobson. served has a national association to which color guard and the Northland Pines “While on leave for 30 days at home, he submitted a story about war experi- School and basketball team for the special Japan surrendered and the war ended. ences. evening. These are experiences to cher- When we sailed home, via New York Har- Jacobson laughed, “At one point, we ish,” he admitted. bor, there in front of us was Lady Liberty took over a small town and we started re- Jacobson, who had never been to Wash- with her arm extended in greeting. Goose- ceiving heavy artillery fire. My squad took ington, D.C., to view the memorials, bumps broke out all over my skin. She refuge in an old rickety barn. The barn boarded a plane early April 27 as part of was welcoming us home.” wouldn’t stand long, so I took shelter be- the Honor Flight. Veterans from World Lewis Jacobson, the soldier, went through After being discharged, Jacobson at- neath a cow until the artillery lifted. The War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam six weeks of blitz training in France before tended Georgetown and joined the Re- last time I came that close to a cow was being sent to Germany. serve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). He for milking duties.” Turn to JACOBSON, Pg. 6 PAGE 6 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Jacobson Brett S. Mai FROM PAGE 5

Brett is a 2011 graduate of Northland Pines High School. He graduated boot War traveled together. They were greeted camp at Great Lakes in August 2013. by a huge crowd welcoming them to Washington. Joining Jacobson on the Honor Flight He is now stationed in Bahrain and his from Eagle River were Louis Piszor, who ship is the USS Gladiator. served with the Navy in World War II; Ronald Kappel, who served with the His rank is an EN3 3rd Class Petty Of- Army in the Korean War; and John Step- ficer in the U.S. Navy. Brett received a let- ka, who served with the Air Force in the ter of commendation. early 1950s. “It was a crazy fast trip!” he admitted. “Each vet had a guardian to assist move- His parents are Anne and Richard Mai ment between monuments and to look and his sisters are Nicole Mai and Ashley after our well being. My son, Alex, who Mai, all of St. Germain. His grandmothers lives in Florida, was my guardian,” said are Lorraine Weiler of Duluth, Minn., and Jacobson. Debra Mai of Stanley, Wis. “Besides taking a tour of the city, we visited the World War II Memorial which has special significance to me, the Air Force Memorial, the Iwo Jima, Korean, Vietnam, and Roosevelt Memorials and Dr. Lewis Jacobson recently visited a num- then Arlington National Cemetery. The ber of Washington, D.C., veterans’ memo- changing of the guard at the Tomb of the rials on a Never Forgotten Honor Flight. Unknown Soldier was a picture of preci- —Contributed Photo Military sion,” said Jacobson. “Upon returning to Wausau, we were grounds, three of them — plus three greeted by a crowd of more than 800 peo- grandsons — work in the medical field. ple who shook our hands, thanked us and One grandson is a combat medic with 2015 Salute welcomed us home. It was a wonderful the Army serving in the 4th Infantry Di- experience!” he exclaimed. vision in Colorado. That is the same Divi- The Jacobsons have six children. Lean- sion with which his grandfather served in ing toward their parents’ medical back- World War II. VILAS COUNTY EWS EVIEW N -R To All Veterans Who Have Eagle River Vindicator Established 1886 Eagle River Review 1890 Vilas County News 1892 Served This Great Nation with Honor in Times of War, Publisher KURT KRUEGER Editor GARY RIDDERBUSCH Assistant Editor ANTHONY DREW Lifestyle Editor RYAN BURGY These Members Salute You Production Manager JEAN DREW Asst. Production Manager ELIZABETH BOULDEN Crculation Manager ELIZABETH SCHMIDT Accounting Manager TERRY POSTO Fredrick J. Walsh Post 114, American Legion, Eagle River, Wisconsin Photo Technician SHARINA ADAMS Production Technician CARLY RATLIFF Thomas Andersen William Grigus Leroy Libby Frederick Scharf Advertising Virgil Beyer Robert Grimm Michael Lucas Kenneth Schwarz KURT KRUEGER • SANDY ROELLE • STEVE WAIER Richard Bloom Gary Guymon James Lynn Wilson Scott JEANNE BROWN • MARY JO ADAMOVICH Douglas Breit Charles Halfmann Harold Madsen Ray Shebesia Eric Brunner John Hayes Larry Matson Charles Sheffler Published by Eagle River Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 1929, Donald Budney Agendrew Heffner Edward Mayack Darren Slizewski 425 W. Mill St., Eagle River, Wisconsin 54521 Allen Burdick Dawn Hrickson William Meihack Joseph Smola e-mail: [email protected] • vcnewsreview.com Wayne Campbell Glenn Huelskamp Henry Mevis John Smolko Phone 715-479-4421 • Fax 715-479-6242 Francis Carlson Harvey Hyslop Robert Millard Clarence Sparks Melvin Carlson Daniel Ingraham Bruce Neir Scott Sparks Carolyn Carter Ruth James Bernard Opichka Eugene Terkel Gary Case Joseph Jankers Leonard Pampel Roger Tesch Curtis Christensen Elmer Jensen Earl Pankow Chris Thomson Rick Conant Merton Jensen Peter Perfetti Joseph Tomlanovich Jonathon Cook Scott Jensen Richard Peterson James Van Haverbeke Christina Crane Harold Johnson Nellie Pietila Michael Vinovich William Crooks William Jones Allen Pittelko John Wade Norman Dashiell James Kasper Donn Proven Ronald Waller Marty Doede Roger Klinter Richard Reese Gene Weber Donald Duncan Arthur Koscielnniak David Roberts Daniel Wroblewski Joe Eisel Edward Kroggel Max Rockafellow Edwin Wroblewski Richard Fenzke Quentin Kukanich Daniel Rogers Robert Wuytach Eugene Garraty Kenneth Kuntz Robert Rozga Gerald Yetter Ronald Gawrys Robert Leach Dennis Rushlow L. Allen Geiger Harry Lee Walter Safford Allen Greenwald Eugene Leveille John Sarama WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 7 Toivonen helped protect homeland while stationed at Eielson radar station ______BY MARGE BAERENWALD SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW ______Radar is an object-detection system regrets making that decision. that uses radio waves to determine the After a grueling trip by ship from Fort range, altitude, direction or speed of ob- Lewis in Tacoma, Wash., he landed at the jects. It can be used to detect aircraft, port of Whittier and then went by train to ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor Fairbanks, Alaska. vehicles, weather formations and terrain. “Our travel was at night, so we could- Radar was secretly developed by sever- n’t see the beautiful scenery,” said Toivo- al nations before and during World War nen. II. The term RADAR was coined in 1940 After one night, he went by truck to by the U.S. Navy as an acronym for RAdio the radar site just off Eielson Air Force Detection And Ranging. Base. He arrived in minus 35-degree During the Korean War in the 1950s, weather in February 1955. Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska was the The site was a Quonset hut with two site of a strategic radar station, overlook- oil stoves and eight cots. At the rear was a ing the Bering Strait, only 58 miles from door that locked. This door went into the Russia. radar room and plotting board where Jack Toivonen of St. Germain was as- there was one oil stove. The radar was up signed to the radar station after comple- on a deck. Outside the rear exit door was tion of basic training at Fort Bliss, Texas. a generator shed, which housed two Jeep “This was eight weeks of grueling motor generators. physical training,” said Toivonen. “I thank God that I was in very good physical “Being somewhat mechanical, I pretty shape, which made it much easier. well took care of these generators. One “We lived in little shacks that were night, the oil stove had quit and the gen- used for POW (prisoner of war) people erators would not start, even by hand from WW II. After cleaning one inch of cranking. I’ll never forget trying to change sand from the floors, etc., we installed points at minus 40 and no heat,” said four bunk beds to accommodate eight of Toivonen. us. We had some (recruits) who were too This was Cold War time and Russia ‘soft’ to make the grade,” he remembered. was always in the news. Toivonen was an expert rifleman, hit- “One night at 2 a.m., I picked up a ting nine bullseyes at 200 yards — rapid Russian plane over the Bering Strait and fire. While he suggested serving on the called the plot to John on the plotting rifle team, he was told these positions board. He in turn called to the Air Force. were usually filled by certain people with Almost immediately the artillery unit we connections. were near sounded a red alert. It was a He scored high enough on his general false alarm because it was a small scout equivalency diploma to go to Officer’s plane lost in fog,” said Toivonen. “We did Candidate School, but he would have receive a commendation some weeks later, needed to sign for another year of service. because all other radars had missed this He decided not to do that, but sometimes plane.” Jack Toivonen of St. Germain volunteered for the draft and entered the U.S. Army on Aug. 18, 1954. He received a commendation while serving in the 502d AA Bn (120mm Gun), PO 937, U.S. Army, on March 5, 1956. —Photo By Marge Baerenwald In May, baseball tryouts were an- touch with his friend, John, and visited Disabled American Veterans Van Routes nounced, so he and his friend, John, went with him in Atlanta, Ga., after 50 years. to the main base to try out. Both made Toivonen and his wife, Jan, met in Reservation line (715) 369-6227 the team and transferred to the 300-man 1952 at a grocery store between Brokaw barracks at headquarters. and Wausau. They have been married 60 MONDAYS & TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS “All we did was play ball against other years and have two sons, two grandsons, base teams and the Air Force teams. In one granddaughter and one great-grand- • Rhinelander Trig’s Liquor, • Rhinelander Trig’s Liquor late August, it was back to the radar site,” son. Both are active in their church in 6:30 a.m. (at the earliest) 6:30 a.m. (at the earliest) he said. “We played two summers, much Eagle River and in community organiza- to the dislike of our commanding officer.” tions. • Lake Tomahawk Sloan Comm. Ctr. • Monico Marathon Gas Station In February 1956, a Finnish major who Before retiring, he worked at Wausau • Woodruff Corner Hwys. 47 & 51 • Crandon Courthouse (front) had transferred from Finland questioned Steel for 19 years. He has traveled all • Arbor Vitae The Store (Hwys. 51 & 70) • Laona Fire Station (back) him about his skiing ability since he was around the country as a steel salesman. from northern Wisconsin. When Toivonen He was recently chosen to board an • St. Germain Krist Gas Station • Cavour Corner Hwys. 8 & 139 assured him he knew how to ski, he was Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. • Eagle River VFW, Hwy. 70 West • Armstrong Creek Store & Gas Station transferred to Ladd Air Force Base and “When I was first approached about after two weeks’ practice competed on the the Honor Flight, I didn’t think I should • Iron Mountain VAMC • Iron Mountain VAMC ski team in Anchorage. accept, but many of my friends encour- Toivonen was discharged at Fort Sheri- aged me to go ahead. I’m really looking dan, Ill., on Aug. 15, 1956. He had kept in forward to it,” he said. PAGE 8 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Never forget meaning of Memorial Day ______public, issued a proclamation that woman shouted from the crowd, “Well BY STATE SEN. TOM TIFFANY “Decoration Day” be observed nation- Doctor, what have we got — a republic 12TH SENATE DISTRICT ______wide. The date chosen was May 30 — or a monarchy?” To which Franklin specifically because it was not on the replied, “A republic if you can keep it.” With the seemingly never-ending anniversary of a battle. Today, because of the brave souls winters we experience up north, we are talking about, our republic has However, some communities did not Memorial Day often marks the unoffi- been kept. Our liberty, the freedom want to honor “Decoration Day” be- cial beginning of summer — our first you and I enjoy today, does not come cause of remaining resentments from chance to enjoy the outdoors, maybe without a price or a trade-off. I am the Civil War. The alternative name, have a cookout or start on yard proj - sure we have all seen or heard the “Memorial Day,” wasn’t commonly ects. phrase from time to time, that “free- used until World War II. Federal law dom isn’t free.” It is true. Freedom But this is not what Memorial Day recognized the holiday as “Memorial comes with an obligation. Our price is really about and it is important that Day” in 1967. for freedom has been paid by some- we never, ever, lose sight of what the America and small communities body who left their family farm, their last Monday in May really means. like ours continue to be blessed with corporate job or even traded in an Memorial Day has been set aside to many brave men and women who do NFL jersey to wear our country’s uni- honor and remember those who have not view serving their country as a form. made the ultimate sacrifice for our na- burden, but as a sacred duty. I think From the Revolutionary War to tion. all of us share the same hope that today, nearly 1 million men and each conflict, battle or war will be our women have laid down their lives While sacrifice has occurred in all last. Sadly, we are reminded all too while defending America. The num- of America’s wars, we have not always regularly that threats to our way of bers of our fallen are not just statis- honored our fallen heroes with a day life do exist. tics — they are real people with real dedicated in their honor. In fact, the families. It is our obligation to them first Memorial Day was not called As time passes, the enemies and that we never forget how invaluable Memorial Day. The first publicized ob- threats to our national security may the price of freedom really is. servance is believed to have been cele- change, but the valor of the men and As we reflect on the sacrifices of brated with a parade of freed slaves women willing to answer our nation’s our fallen heroes this Memorial Day, and Union soldiers marching through call has not. let us keep a prayer in our heart for Charleston, S.C., in 1865. At the close of the Constitutional those still serving and a spirit of grati- Three years later, Gen. John A. Convention, a crowd gathered on the tude toward our living veterans. We Logan, head of the prominent veter- street outside of Independence Hall also must keep the promise that we ans group, the Grand Army of the Re- and as the delegates were leaving, a will never, ever forget. STATE SEN. TOM TIFFANY We Remember O’Brien, O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O Anderson, HONORING THE HEROES OF MEMORIAL DAY OPEN 7 DAYS Burgy & A WEEK AT 11 A.M. — DAILY Garbowicz, LLP 4245 Hwy. B • Land O’ Lakes, WI • 715-547-3335 ESTABLISHED 1927 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H Attorneys At Law WE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS! Complete Landscaping and Full-Service Garden Center Please support Now open Mon.-Fri. 9-5; Sat.-Sun. 9-1 our veterans, www.northernlakeslandscaping.com Rod & Jill Croker soldiers and 1075 E. Pine St. Eagle River Proud sponsor of the landscaping military families. (715) 479-5852 at the 2012 Vietnam Veterans Wall Memorial H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 9 Nuclear subs helped avert ‘the big one’ Waller relates experiences aboard Navy submarine ______BY MARGE BAERENWALD SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW ______

At the end of World War II, the United Fast attack subs States and the Soviet Union were en- The United States had been experi- gaged in what was called “The Cold War.” menting with several nuclear propulsion It was a tense time with the threat of a plant types, but finally selected the West- nuclear war a real possibility. Each had inghouse Pressurized Water-type Propul- developed the capability of exploding an sion Plant along with the new porpoise atomic bomb on the other and using other hull shape for the first Class of Nuclear nuclear weapons. Fast Attack Submarines (SSN-58X). One of these weapons was a nuclear “I was assigned to a sub in the first submarine which could travel submerged Nuclear Submarine Class (six boats SSN- for long periods of time, thus being virtu- 585-589), where I qualified on the USS ally undetectable. The U.S. Navy devel- Scamp SSN-588 in submarines early in oped a submarine in response to the Sovi- March 1962,” said Waller. et armada. As a result of both having this During this same period, the Fleet Bal- weapon, nuclear war may have been listic Missile Submarine (FBM, class averted. SSBN-XXX) development started and The men who operated these “boats,” they actually cut one of the fast attack as they are called, had specific qualifica- subs in half, lengthened it to hold 16 bal- tions and training. listic missiles and then built 40 more of One such man was Ron Waller of Eagle these FBMs. River, who entered the U.S. Navy in 1960. These Cold War missile submarines “I had three speeding tickets in three are now referred to as the “41 for Free- weeks and my father told the judge that I dom” since they were the primary deter- was going in the military (in lieu of jail or rent force preventing a homeland attack large penalty). I tested high on the mili- from the Soviet Union under what was Ron Waller joined the Navy in 1960. After boot camp, he attended submarine school, which tary tests and had good academic high called at the time “mutually assured de- was both a mental and physical challenge. —Photo By Marge Baerenwald school grades; the Navy wanted me to struction.” sign up for the Nuclear Submarine Pro- Since there were no prior nuclear boats ification, which was not only a mental designs had some deficiencies. Capt. Diet- gram, which I did,” said Waller. or ships, there was no “rate” (class of challenge but a physical one as well. zen loved to drive the sub at its limits. I After World War II, the Soviets em- sailor job type) for nuclear reactor opera- The candidate had to learn everything guess he was just thrilled at the subma- barked on a huge submarine building pro- tors. The nuclear reactor operator was an about the submarine, including officers rine’s significantly increased capability gram as a Cold War strategic advantage, engineering job, so new recruits were and enlisted, even the captain and execu- after fighting out of a DE WW II sub. This and by the late 1950s they had built started as firemen, rather than the usual tive officer. They also had to learn the lo- activity was damped way down in all sub- about 800 subs. The United States had seaman rate for electronic technicians. cation of all sea valves, an understanding marines after Thresher. less than 200; all were WW II diesel-elec- and basic operation knowledge of all “It was thrilling to me to be driving the tric configurations, according to Waller. Submarine qualification equipment, where all the breathing sta- sub at all-ahead flank at over 30 knots, “None of these subs were nuclear at After boot camp and submarine school, tions were located, and the location of all (classified) at test depth of over 700 feet the time,” said Waller. Waller had to go through submarine qual- safety and damage control equipment. (classified) underwater. Way more! Depth A submariner qualified on a submarine creates a pressure of 441 psi per 1,000 was able to take a support position along feet. with knowledgeable leadership at any job “Since the military didn’t pay lower- on the submarine. A card with many sign- level ranks very much, young 20-year-old off items was used to monitor progress sailors like me didn’t have much money. (the qual card). Qualification could only So our only entertainment came from at- be done on a non-qual’s own time, mean- tending YMCA dances on weekends where ing the periods before or after he had soda pop and cookies were provided. completed all of his regular work and That’s where I met Beverly, my wife. She watches. This qualification period usually picked me up because I was a good took about six months. dancer,” laughed Waller. After his qualifications and Electronics Submariners (at this time) received an Technician A School, Waller was assigned additional $2 per crew member, per day, to the USS Scamp to make sure he could for food rations. qualify and otherwise adapt to submarine “This was quite a bit of additional life in an all-volunteer assignment. money, allowing the sub to feed the crew His captain was Buck Dietzen, a WW very well as is the submarine force tradi- II combat submarine commander. tion. The crew ate filet mignons — as “Even though I was a fireman (FN), I many as you want — every Sunday and was assigned to the deck gang,” said great food during the week. On the mis- Waller. “I stood topside watches and sile boats, each division, such as machin- worked on menial maintenance tasks. ists, engine man, electricians etc., was While qualifying, I demonstrated profi- able to tell the food prep crew exactly — ciency in driving the sub and was as- anything — what they wanted the entire signed as Battle Stations Helmsman. crew to eat for dinner on one Saturday Ron Waller was aboard the USS Daniel Webster in 1964, taking his turn on nuclear detterent “This was before the USS Thresher patrols. It was a time when many were concerned about nuclear war. sank and the Navy discovered that their Turn to WALLER, Pg. 10 PAGE 10 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Waller. “We then discovered we had no propulsion; the shaft would turn but there Waller was no movement in either direction. I was FROM PAGE 10 reporting the back-and-forth communica- tion between Capt. Dietzen and maneuver- ing. We concluded we had lost the screw. during our patrol. Engineering reported that the shaft was “All boats had a 24-hour ice cream ma- OK.” chine, juice machine and popcorn machine. Later, back in dry dock, the crew discov- When in port, the crew had access to the ered that the special instrumented shaft kitchen and could make breakfast — any- had parted within the mud tank (part of thing in the fridge — as long as the kitchen ship’s hull). was cleaned when done. Further, any spe- “Should the shaft have broken inside cialties in the pantry such as shrimp, crab, the submarine, the largest compartment on sausage, etc., were always available. Just the sub, the engine room, would have flood- had to make certain the item was not re- ed and I likely would not be here due to the served for a meal. While under way, eating sub sinking,” said Waller. these items was also OK. When they were Waller said the Naval Command sent a gone, they were gone,” said Waller. seagoing tug to come to get the Scamp. USS Scamp loses screw “Since we had no ‘way’ (propulsion) on Waller recalled a routine assignment, the boat, we bobbed around like a cork in which proved to be anything but routine. the sea. This part off the coast of California “During a post-shipyard overhaul test is known as the ‘rollers’ because the bottom run following commissioning, we were shape can cause some hellish wave mo- about 50 miles out of San Francisco,” said tion,” said Waller. Waller. While the craft was bobbing around, it Although there was only a single watch took on some extreme swings with the sail crew aboard, Waller said there were 75 moving from side to side; about 25 to 35 de- shipyard personnel aboard for the testing. grees to the right, and then back 25 to 35 “We were only going out for the day to to the left, according to Waller. test a new seven-blade, eight-ton screw. “It was necessary to stand on the sides The original screw was a five-blade, five- of the sail in each direction to keep your footing while standing topside watch. Since A young Ron Waller in 1987, shown in the torpedo room of a submarine. He’s leaning on a ton version. The shipyard had installed an Mark 45 Nuclear Torpedo. He served 10 years in the Navy. —Contributed Photos instrumented shaft that connected our the trip was to be out and back in a single main propulsion turbines with the new day, we had limited provisions, and imme- “We drifted under the Golden Gate five knots at about 150 feet trying very, screw. diately after the incident started rationing Bridge missing one pylon by about 15 feet. very, hard not to be detected. He said there our food supplies,” said Waller. “The yard Capt. Dietzen is freaking out and orders was no outward communication, but the The testing consisted of doing a “crash- personnel were not used to this extreme back,” which is going ahead at flank speed me to take a fire axe and cut the tug loose,” sub received constant communication motion and were soon barfing and puking said Waller. “I do this, chopping the five- through a number of methods but mostly until the sub attained maximum speed, fol- everywhere.” lowed by closing the ahead throttle on the inch line in half and leaving a large gouge by a 1,500-foot-long floating antenna. propulsion turbines and immediately open- The tug arrived and after sizing up the in the cleat. In the meantime the captain “All the time, hoping you never get a ing the astern throttle to maximum, back- situation, shot a line over to the sub (about has called four ‘yard’ (smaller) tugs and message to fire missiles, a sure sign your ing down the submarine. 100 yards away) with a rifle made for this each one is lashed to one of the four cor- homeland has been attacked and your fam- The crew was to complete the tests, first purpose, explained Waller. ners of the boat,” said Waller. ily is likely already dead,” he said. surfaced and then again submerged. “Unfortunately, the tug crew then sends “We slowly inch toward Mare Island “I was on the telephone with the maneu- over a five-inch (circumference) tug line at- Shipyard about 40 miles up the river. But, Retires from Navy vering room during the testing. We started tached to the small shooting line. When the as folks in this area know, the fog rolls in to After 10 years in the Navy, Waller decid- the first test and while we were crashing line parts just about when we get it to our San Francisco Bay often; this day it was no ed he needed to make more money. back, where everything is shaking crazily, sub, the shooting line parts and the line exception. We had to anchor in the river all “I was only being paid $700 per month, all of a sudden it got very still. The maneu- floats away,” said Waller. night with a topside watch at each of the which wasn’t enough for a family and there vering room (control space in engineering) “This was exhausting on the two men four corners of the boat, plus the normal was no opportunity to make more,” said reported that the reactor had an excursion, assigned to handle the line and Capt. Diet- position up in sail. Waller. but had not scrammed (shut down),” said zen was furious at the stupidity of the tug “We had to use all of the topside crew He worked at Johnson Controls in Mil- to go with such a line difference,” said that were aboard. When we finally tied up waukee for 27 years, retiring as director of Waller. “After Capt. Dietzen finished chew- back at Mare Island, most of the crew, and government services, controls division, ing out the tug captain, we next got a new all of topside members certain to have not which did major capital retrofits to govern- shooting line followed by line after line, slept for two and a half days. We go back ment facilities. each increasing slightly over the other. We into dry dock where the shaft and screw He and his wife, Bev, have three daugh- had piles of line falling all over.” are replaced and we rig for normal sea op- ters and four granddaughters (one set of Waller said the crew needed to change erations,” said Waller twins). They live on Meta Lake south of line handlers several times as they got ex- Eagle River, where they enjoy retirement. hausted pulling lines out of the sea. The Daniel Webster Waller serves on several professional or- “We finally get the five-inch line to our Following Nuclear Power School in ganizations, including being past president deck. But we had no towing gear aboard Windsor Locks, Conn., Waller was assigned and chairman of Project Management In- because we had just been in the dry dock to the Daniel Webster, a Polaris Ballistic stitute (PMI), a professional organization and just about everything in the boat had Missile submarine. They would go to sea for project managers with 250,000 mem- been offloaded. We threw a loop over a deck with one crew for almost 90 days, then re- bers. cleat and the tug began dragging us back turn and change crews. He is a fellow of the PMI, life then en- to port. With the large waves, the tug “I was on watch when President dowment member of the National Rifle As- would disappear from sight as both the tug Kennedy was killed. As part of the commis- sociation, a life member of U.S. Submarine and boat alternately dipped into the sea be- sioning crew of the Webster, the crew dur- Veterans, life member of Menominee Falls tween the waves. As we approached San ing shipyard periods was tasked with fol- Rod & Gun Club, Elks International, Amer- Francisco Bay and just went under the lowing up on the construction installation ican Legion, Boulder Junction Shooting Following Nuclear Power School, Ron Golden Gate Bridge, the tug lost all power.” and testing. Range, Muskies Inc., Sno-Eagles Snowmo- Waller was assigned to the Daniel Web- The sub’s tow line slowly trailed back, Waller said the nuclear deterrent pa- bile Club, Open Carry Wisconsin and Vilas ster, a Polaris Ballistic Missile Subma- dragging the tug using the inertia of the trols were boring, as the boat just chugs County delegate to the Wisconsin Conser- rine. boat. around a huge piece of ocean going three to vation Congress. WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 11

Vets honored across North

Communities across the North Woods host Memorial Day programs to honor veterans who served their country and to remember those killed in action. These are scenes from ceremonies in Eagle River (right and below) and Three Lakes (above and bottom right) from 2014. —NEWS-REVIEW PHOTOS PAGE 12 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VA center expanding health-care choices for veterans residing in northern Wisconsin ______BY BRAD NELSON SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW ______Visitors to the Community Living Cen- driving distance from the nearest VA ter at the Oscar G. Johnson Veterans Af- health-care facility, which includes local fairs (VA) Medical Center in Iron Moun- VA community outpatient clinics like in tain, Mich., will see on the wall “The Price Rhinelander. Second, if a veteran is sched- of Freedom is Visible Here.” uled for a VA health-care appointment that At the Iron Mountain-based medical is more than 30 days beyond the desired center and at the Rhinelander VA Outpa- appointment date, then he or she is eligible tient Clinic on W. Kemp Street, VA employ- to use the Choice program for the specific ees are reminded daily of the sacrifices care that was not available within 30 days made by our military men and women as of the desired date. they care for those that came home wound- While veterans may not be eligible to use ed and scarred. the Choice program right now, they may be In the past year, the VA has expanded eligible in the future if they have to wait for health-care options for many of the men a VA appointment more than 30 days from and women who have served their country their preferred appointment date. in uniform. The Veterans Choice program Veterans should note that the Choice is designed to increase health-care access program is not for emergency care. Veter- for veterans by providing more options ans should always call 1-(866) 606-8198 through local non-VA community health- prior to using the Veterans Choice pro- care providers. gram in order to receive authorization. For All veterans who were enrolled in the more information on the Choice program, VA health care system by Aug. 1, 2014, veterans should go to va.gov/opa/choiceact. have already received a Veterans Choice The VA Outpatient Clinic in Rhine- card. Combat veterans returning after that lander serves nearly 3,500 area veterans. The VA’s Rhinelander Clinic is located at 639 Kemp St., offering many health-care services date who enroll in VA health care also will The VA clinic offers a variety of primary to northern Wisconsin veterans. —Contributed Photo receive a card. care and mental-health outpatient services To use the Choice program, veterans to area veterans as well as referrals for Rhinelander to alleviate veterans from at 639 W. Kemp St. must meet one of two criteria. First, veter- specialty care services with specialists at having to travel to the Iron Mountain VA ans are eligible to use the Choice program other VA medical centers. Medical Center for rehabilitation proce- Brad Nelson is the public affairs officer for any care that the VA would normally Most recently the VA added a physical dures. at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center provide if they live more than 40 miles therapy clinic at the VA facility in The VA’s Rhinelander Clinic is located in Iron Mountain, Mich. BORDER PEST CONTROL THANK YOU PROMPT, TRUSTED SERVICE . . . AFFORDABLE RATES! Springtime Pests are Awakening, Bats are Returning . . . to all the brave ARE YOU PROTECTED? men and women • Free Estimates • Fully Licensed & Insured 126 E. Division St. who have served or Eagle River, Wis. 715-479-3433 or toll free 866-624-7401 715-479-8820 are currently serving Thank you for protecting the homefront! ertire.com in the U.S. military.

Proud Supporter of Those Who Serve Our Country! We salute “An Attitude of Excellence” those who serve 633 N. Railroad Street in Eagle River 715-479-4491 in our armed forces! or at 121 Sutliff Avenue Rhinelander WOODRUFF APPLIANCE & TV 715-365-4800 Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sat., 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Serving Vilas, Oneida, Florence, Forest, Lincoln, Federally Langlade & Price Counties www.ripco.org Insured 905 Hwy. 47, Woodruff • 715-356-2107 • www.woodruffappliance.com by NCUA WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 13 Alinen remembers U.S. Army service over three years during World War II ______BY SHARON GIFFORD SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW ______

Leonard Alinen, 96, of Phelps recently three months, as a large supply depot was recalled in detail his time serving in the located there. U.S. Army during World War II. He served “We had to keep their supplies from for three and one-half years without a getting drenched with water,” said Alinen. break. “We also had to help clean up an Ameri- Alinen first enlisted in the army May can plane that had hit a mountain there.” 14, 1942. He was assigned to the 332nd Alinen went back to Scotland and all U.S. Army ADSEC Engineer Group. As en- around the British Isles in 1944, he said. gineers, they built bridges, dismantled “They shipped us to southern England bombs and worked with infantry and ar- to put camouflage around the trees to tillery. keep the Germans from getting pictures “We were in England by August of that of what was going on,” he said. “We never year and did not come back to the states knew when we were going to go home. We till 1945,” said Alinen. got on the landing ship for France, but When he enlisted, he was living in they didn’t want us in France till the Cleveland, Ohio. He went to Camp Clay- beach head was started. borne in Louisiana for infantry training. “Late in the day, we got there and As private first class, he asked to get into jumped in the English Channel and the motor pool. walked into Utah Beach and slept in fox “The sergeant in charge of training told holes. Germans flew over and shot up our me to stick with him,” said Alinen. “He outfit. On the second night, more planes said, ‘I have something better for you.’ In went over — so many shots from all direc- six weeks, I got corporal stripes and less tions. It looked like an umbrella at night than a year later, my sergeant stripes and time. It was something else to see.” was in charge of a squad of 12 guys. At the The day afterward, the group moved to same time, I was my platoon sergeant’s Saint-Lô in northwestern France. That’s right-hand man. When he wasn’t there I when the big push started, according to had to take care of the whole platoon.” Alinen. When Alinen first enlisted, his wages “Our own airplanes mistakenly were $21 per month. Once he became a dropped bombs on us and killed a lot of sergeant, he made $94 per month and Americans, even a general,” he said. sent home $50 of each check to his moth- “Things you don’t hear about. The push er. He said he had no place to spend the out of Normandy lasted a lot longer than money overseas. the Americans figured.” His tour included getting on a cattle He said they ended up helping the in- boat in Nova Scotia in August of ’42, with fantry and went further inland and 120 guys sleeping on the deck for 13 days turned north. On June 30, 1944, they during a trip across the Atlantic to Glas- ended up in Cherbourg Harbour in the gow, Scotland. The group was then loaded English Channel. Leonard Alinen of Phelps served in the U.S. Army during World War II, enlisting in 1942. At onto a train to South Wales and the whole “Germans had the hillside next to the age 96, he proudly donned his military jacket. —Photo By Sharon Gifford town was there to greet them upon arrival. oceans dug out three stories down,” he “We hiked three miles, sleeping in tepee said. “There were 40,000 Germans living lem was that there was a lot of rookies. they could go home, while the rest and tents — eight guys to a tent — with noth- there underground. We chased them out. “On Christmas Day our superior said, wanted to separate the English from the ing to eat but mutton and tea for three As engineers, we had to go in and get all ‘Gentlemen, I have only one bottle of booze. rest of us,” said Alinen. “They were going to months,” said Alinen. “Our company was the booby traps and bombs out.” There should be enough for one drink for bulge us up to the ocean. The Battle of the the first to move out, ending up in Chester, After going back to Saint-Lô and start- each of you.’” Bulge was tough. Biggest problem was that England, building an army post during the ing across France, Alinen went through The Battle of the Bulge was a key en- there was a lot of rookies. day and training at night. Here, we learned Paris, only to end up back in the city two gagement of World War II which lasted “On Christmas Day our superior said, all about the unique English bridge build- weeks later. from Dec. 16, 1944, until Jan. 25, 1945. ‘Gentlemen, I have only one bottle of ing — assembling quickly and pushing “We were back in Paris with the first From there, Alinen’s group moved to the booze. There should be enough for one across the water. That was the main reason division helping with a bridge,” he said. Rhine River in Duisbury, Germany. After drink for each of you.’” our outfit was sent to England.” “We had to find all our supplies for work- several small jobs, they went to Kassel for The Battle of the Bulge was a key en- In Salisbury Plain, England, the group ing on the bridges.” a railroad bridge job. The Kassel bridge gagement of World War II which lasted worked on Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower’s was 112 feet over the water. from Dec. 16, 1944, until Jan. 25, 1945. headquarters. Battle of the Bulge “And here we are walking with GI boots From there, Alinen’s group moved to “We were lucky enough to see Stone- Alinen was moved to Liége, Belgium, be- on there with no safety restraint,” said Ali- the Rhine River in Duisbury, Germany. henge,” said Alinen. “We were told not to fore the Battle of the Bulge. His group was nen. “And not only that, we were always After several small jobs, they went to go too close though.” assigned to help artillery dig the bulge. being shot at because the Germans did not Kassel for a railroad bridge job. The Kas- Alinen said the men moved around a “Hitler wanted to give it one last try want us to rebuild the bridge.” sel bridge was 112 feet over the water. lot, spending some time working at an and wanted to separate the English from From there, Alinen’s group was sent to “And here we are walking with GI airport in Paris where B-17s from the the rest of us,” said Alinen. “They were Berlin, but never made it there, as the war boots on there with no safety restraint,” United States flew in. going to bulge us up to the ocean. The Bat- ended. His commander told Alinen and the They also went to Northern Ireland for tle of the Bulge was tough. Biggest prob- others who had been there three years Turn to ALINEN, Pg. 14 PAGE 14 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Pines’ All American Kids Club expands during 2014-’15 school year The Northland Pines School District an- nounced the expansion of its All American Kids Club this year. The club now has chapters in all three of its elementary schools — Eagle River Elementary School, Land O’ Lakes Elementary School and St. Germain Elementary School. The All American Kids Club includes students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Pride and patriotism are instilled in students by creating patriotic projects for veterans, as well as visiting the Oscar G. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iron Mountain, Mich., and hosting social events where veterans and students meet and talk. In addition to its many patriotic proj- ects, the All American Kids Club also is in- volved with the Never Forgotten Honor Flight — a Wausau-based organization that flies veterans who served during World War II, the Korean War or the Viet- nam War to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials that were erected in their honor. During the 2014-’15 school year, the All American Kids Club worked with the staff of the Northland Pines School District, the Northland Pines High School football team, and the Eagle River Area Fire De- partment to sponsor four local veterans on the spring flights. The veterans were sur- prised with their tickets at the district’s Veterans Day assembly. Those who would like more information about the Never Forgotten Honor Flight or the All American Kids Club may contact Sarah Simac, teacher at Eagle River Ele- mentary School, at [email protected]. “The All American Kids Club would like to thank all veterans for their service and sacrifice,” said Simac. “We thank you for Members of the All American Kids Club in the Northland Pines School the Veterans Day program in November 2014 in the high school field our freedom!” District passed out flowers to veterans and military personnel during house. —NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

to the Rhine River and build a railroad cows and had a big garden. years, retiring in 1988. He married Helen bridge so we can get food across, because “I remember blowing up stumps on our Esther July 20, 1946. They had three girls. Alinen all the bridges are gone.’ ” farm with dynamite with my dad,” said “I ended up with three boys also,” said FROM PAGE 13 Within six and one-half days and with Alinen. “My dad graded a lot of the roads Alinen. “Brother John died at 49 and we the help of engineer groups, they had a in Phelps.” adopted his children. We came back to va- railroad engine on the tracks. Alinen played basketball at Phelps cation in Phelps and moved back with my said Alinen. “And not only that, we were “We didn’t stay long enough to finish, High School. He was a member on the wife after I retired.” always being shot at because the Ger- but we got the big part started and then team when they were Northern Lakes Helen Esther died in 2005 after nearly mans did not want us to rebuild the they chased us out,” said Alinen. “It was champs in 1938 beating Minocqua. He 60 years of marriage to Alinen. Two sons bridge.” called Victory Bridge. We returned to graduated in 1938. live in Ohio — one a school teacher — and From there, Alinen’s group was sent Paris and back to England and South After graduation, he worked at Hazen his third son is a police chief in Arizona. to Berlin, but never made it there, as the Hampton and loaded the Queen Elizabeth Long Lake Lodge. After three years, he One daughter lives in Phelps, one in Mary- war ended. His commander told Alinen and four days later we were in New York. and his brother, John, left Phelps looking land and one in California. He has four and the others who had been there three Three and a half years was a long haul for jobs. They ended up in Ohio where Ali- grandchildren and one great-grandchild. years they could go home, while the rest with no vacation time.” nen enlisted in the Army. Alinen went on the Honor Flight Sept. stuck around. After the war, Alinen said he returned 19, 2011, traveling with Don and Donna “We loaded onto boxcars and ended up Alinen’s background to his parents’ home in Phelps. Crass from Phelps. at a camp near Paris,” he said. “We were Alinen was born Feb. 12, 1920, in “My brother and I went to visit brother “That was a very nice trip,” said Ali- there three or four days. Then, our superi- Phelps on St. Louis Road to Hilda Eliza- John in Ohio,” he said. “We both found nen. The 332nd also had reunions which ors came back and said, ‘Sorry guys, you beth and Victor. He had four sisters and jobs there.” he attended, although the last one he re- are not going home. You need to go back three brothers. They ran a farm with Alinen worked at Eaton Corp. for 34 members only had 13 men in attendance. WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 15 For Twigg, ‘Once a Marine, always a Marine’ ______BY WALLY GEIST SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW ______Lester Twigg registered with Selective Service when he turned 18, and was drafted into military service in World War II shortly after graduating from high school in the small unincorporated town of Haldane, Ill., located in Ogle County. “At the time I was called up,” said Twigg, “the branches were pretty evenly filled, so I had my choice of which service I could be in. My brother was in the Navy and I decided to become a Marine.” The old saying, “Once a Marine, always a Marine” could have been coined by Twigg, now 89. His belt buckle and Eagle River home decor make it clear that a U.S. Marine lives there. The centerpiece of his living room is a large, framed photo montage of the medics raising Old Glory at the top of Mt. Suribachi. It’s signed by members of the Marine Corps League which met at the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Rhine - lander. There also are patches represent- ing the units which engaged the Japanese on the island of Iwo Jima. Situated to the right of the Iwo Jima memorial is a smaller plaque with a photo of Twigg back in 1943 and a more recent photo of the veteran. Words inscribed in the plaque read: “I proudly served my country. I did all that I could do to protect our land, keep it free, its causes great and true and though I no longer serve, you will always see in me someone proud to be a veteran and someone thankful to be free.” After boot camp and training for war, Twigg found himself in the sixth assault wave on deadly Iwo Jima Feb. 19, 1945. He recollects, “We had to wait our turn to land on the beach. We were all in landing crafts and circled out in the ocean until our turn came. Most of us were seasick which added to the difficulty of the land- ing. “The most difficult part of the landing was the sand. You can call it sand because it was what the beach was made of, but it was volcanic material,” remembered Twigg. Among Twigg’s memorabilia of his time on Iwo Jima is a small vial of the sand of Iwo Jima. It is described as black, gritty and almost like lava rock one may find in a modern gas barbecue grill. “The beach was steep and the stuff made it difficult to climb because our feet sank into it up to our knees,” said Twigg. Lester Twigg, World War II veteran, stands next to the large Iwo Jima by members of the Marine Corps League which met at the Veterans “We had to carry everything from the memorial photo and patches montage in his living room. It is signed of Foreign Wars in Rhinelander. —Photo By Wally Geist landing up the beach and were exhausted as we reached the top. positions. inches down into my back. At least the cleaned because it was infected,” said “A lot of men died that day. They died “There were eight men in a squad and scar is about 8 inches long. Twigg. on the northern part of the island because by the time the fighting was done, most “My brother, a corpsman in the Navy, After recuperating for a week at the it was the only place we could get in,” he squads only had one man left. The others met me in the hospital tent on Iwo Jima Royal Hawaiian Hotel, a place where the continued. were either dead or wounded. before I was shipped out to the hospital in Navy put up submarine crews needing Twigg was a member of the 5th Pio- “I was wounded when I stepped out of Hawaii for surgery. All that time the rest and recuperation, Twigg was sent to neers and had been trained as an explo- my fox hole, slipped and fell. As I fell for- wound was open, packed with gauze and a composite unit made up of men from sives expert. His mission was to blow up ward, a Japanese bullet caught me behind Vaseline. the caves enemy soldiers used as firing the right shoulder and burrowed about 8 “Once on Hawaii, the wound had to be Turn to TWIGG, Pg. 16 PAGE 16 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 the peace as they started to emerge from the countryside,” said Twigg. “I never Twigg thought about the danger from radiation FROM PAGE 15 and have lived all these years, so I guess the wind blew the radiation all out to sea. “Hiroshima, in particular, looked like it various units who were to become mili- had burned and melted from the heat of tary police once the war in the Pacific the bomb,” said Twigg. “But being there, I ended. realized what fanatics the Japanese were and that the bomb saved a lot of lives on “I was sent to Japan, to Hiroshima and both sides had the fighting continued. Nagasaki to patrol, at first to keep the “The cost of Iwo Jima was figured out Japanese off the streets and later to keep by someone. How they could figure it out I don’t know. But the purpose of taking Iwo Jima with 23,000 casualties and 8,000 deaths was applied to how many B-29s we saved from getting shot down and how many gallons of fuel we saved by being closer to Japan. How can they figure the cost?” he asked. While Twigg enthusiastically joined the military and marched off to war more than 70 years ago, he questions the Unit- ed States’ involvement in warfare today. “I think all of the fighting in the Mid- dle East is that they want us to fight their civil wars. Once we leave, they go right back to it again,” he said. This photo appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Parade Magazine (unknown date) and “It’s just my opinion that it’s a melting again in the Time Life publication The Road To Tokyo - World War II, Page 47. Lester Twigg’s pot there and we can’t change a thing for brother spotted the photo and recognized Lester Twigg (carrying boxes) struggling against the all we try. They kill each other so they can sands of Iwo Jima. —Contributed Photos die heroes, just like the kamikazes who took out 600 of our ships during World industry and worked on high-voltage The photo was reproduced in “The Road War II. transmission lines and power distribution To Tokyo – World War II” (page 47). “I don’t know that I would do it again, in the Milwaukee area. Today, he lives in “Can you imagine that? After all those but at 19, you are young, you are invinci- the town of Newbold. years. None of us knew our photo was Lester Twigg, shown in a U.S. Marine uni- ble,” Twigg said. “I like working with ‘hot’ wires,” he being taken. We just went about doing our form in the 1940s. He says, “Once a Ma- Following World War II, Twigg found a said matter-of-factly. jobs and trying to save our lives,” Twigg rine, always a Marine.” career in the high-voltage transmission Years after the war, Twigg’s brother said. saw a photo in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Parade Magazine and recog- For Twigg, “Once a Marine, always a H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H nized him carrying supplies up the beach. Marine.”

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Proud to honor our veterans and active military personnel Wisconsin Forestry Museum RIDE THE 1916 LUMBERJACK STEAM TRAIN All active-duty military and their immediate families receive free admission on the train. 2015 DATES — JUNE 25 THRU AUG. 22 5068 Hwy. 8 & 32, Laona, Wis. (715) 674-3414 www.lumberjacksteamtrain.com WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 17 From Marine aviator to lieutenant colonel, Aschenbrenner makes climb in military career

Lt. Col. Eric “Wood” Aschenbrenner ported back to Squadron 101, this time as graduated from Northland Pines High an instructor, and served as the S-4 offi- School in 1991 and attended the Universi- cer and air to ground phase head. ty of Dubuque in Dubuque, Iowa, attain- Aschenbrenner transitioned in April ing a bachelor of science in aviation man- 2009 to the MV 22, Osprey, and under- agement in December 1994. went training at Marine Corps Air Sta- After flying with various corporate tion in New River, N.C. Upon completion flight departments, he attended Officer of this training, he reported to Marine Candidate School and was commissioned Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 in Jan- as a second lieutenant in August 1997 uary 2010 and assumed duties as the op- and graduated from Basic School in erations officer for the next year. March 1998. In January 2011, the squadron joined In April 1998, Aschenbrenner reported the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and to Marine Aviation Training in Pensacola, immediately deployed six weeks later for Fla. After training further at naval air an 11-month assignment throughout the stations in Corpus Christi, Texas, Meridi- Mediterranean Sea, Africa and Arabian an, Miss., and Kingsville, Texas, he re- Peninsula. ceived his aviator wings in June 2000 and Upon return from deployment, he was was selected to fly the F/A 18 Hornet. transferred to Okinawa where he fulfilled After transferring to Marine Fighter At- the Philippine exercise officer and opera- tack Training Squadron 101 at Miramar, tions officer roles at Marine Aircraft Calif., in July 2000, 1st Lt. Aschenbrenner Group 36 and then the executive officer completed the F/A 18 Fleet Replacement at Squadron 265 where he deployed with Squadron syllabus in June 2001. He then the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. Dur- reported as a captain to Squadron 242 and ing that deployment, the squadron partic- deployed on a 13-month Western Pacific ipated in Operation Damayan in the way (WESTPAC) encompassing several coun- of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. tries throughout Southeast Asia. Promoted to lieutenant colonel, As- Upon returning from deployment, chenbrenner moved back to California Capt. Aschenbrenner reported to 1st Bat- and worked as the H-1 current readiness talion 7th Marines in Twentynine Palms, officer at MAG 39 in the months leading Calif., as a forward air controller in up to assuming command of Marine February 2004. While with the 1st Battal- Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164. ion, he deployed to Al Qaim, Iraq, during On April 9, 2015, a change of command Operation Iraqi Freedom II. ceremony was held at Marine Corps Air In March 2005, Aschenbrenner Station Camp Pendleton in San Diego, checked back into Squadron 101 for re- Calif., formally giving command to Lt. fresher training and then into Marine Col. Aschenbrenner. Aircraft Group 11 as the assistant opera- Aschenbrenner is married to the for- tions officer for seven months while wait- mer Nicole Gauthier of Escanaba, Mich. ing to depart on his next assignment. He is the son of Gerald and Daniele As- He moved to Australia in October 2005 chenbrenner of Eagle River and the for a two-year F/A 18 pilot exchange with brother of Joe Aschenbrenner of Conover. the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). While posted with the RAAF, now a Lt. Col. Eric “Wood” Aschenbrenner’s major, Aschenbrenner served as a flight personal decorations include the Navy and commander with 75 Squadron, located in Marine Corps Commendation Medal with the Northern Territory. He deployed to gold star in lieu of second award, the Joint Malaysia twice. Service Achievement Medal and Combat Northland Pines High School graduate Eric “Wood” Aschenbrenner is now a lieutenant In January 2008, Aschenbrenner re- Action Ribbon. He has 17 years of service. colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. —Contributed Photo The Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies Auxiliary Join us — offer our heartfelt thanks you might like it. Stop by or call today. to all veterans who make the freedom we now enjoy possible. VFW Post 8637 418 Pine St., Eagle River, Wis. (715) 479-8810 PAGE 18 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Organizations ready Veterans and dependents to assist veterans can get assistance in Vilas Phone numbers At the Vilas County Veterans Service Of- • DFAS for retirees, 1-(800) 321-1080 fice, Michael Biszak, the veterans service of- ficer, and Deb Eicher, benefits specialist, are • Vilas County Veterans Service • Veterans Crisis Line, available to assist veterans and their depen- Office, (715) 479-3629 1-(800) 273-8255, press 1 dents in understanding and obtaining earned benefits provided by the federal and • Oneida County Veterans Service Websites state governments. Office, (715) 369-6127 A summary of those benefits include: • Federal VA: va.gov • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs • VA Regional Office call center, (federal benefits) — Burial allowance, burial 1-(800) 827-1000 • Wisconsin Department flag, health care, education, vocational reha- of Veterans Affairs: dva.state.wi.us bilitation, pension, Dependency and Indem- nity Compensation pension, disability com- • VA Pension Center call center, pensation, home loan guarantee certificate 1-(877) 294-6380 • Tricare: tricare.mil and military records. • Wisconsin Department of Veterans Af- • Wisconsin Department of • Defense Finance and Accounting fairs (state programs) — Retraining grant, Veterans Affairs, 1-(800) WIS-VETS Service (DFAS): dfas.mil education, state veterans cemeteries, mili- tary funeral honors, veterans and surviving • VA Medical Center, Iron Mountain, • Oneida County: co.oneida.wi.gov spouse property tax credit, division of Veter- MI, 1-(800) 215-8262 ans Homes, professional/occupational licen- • Vilas County: co.vilas.wi.us sure and veteran identifier on Wisconsin driver’s license. • Community-Based Outreach “Please contact our office for assistance. Clinic, Rhinelander, (715) 362-4080 We will help you with paperwork, file your claims and answer all your questions,” said • DAV van reservations, Biszak. (715) 369-6227 Vilas County has one of the largest popu- MICHAEL BISZAK lation of veterans per capita in the state of • Tricare, Northern Region Wisconsin and those veterans earned bene- The Vilas County Veterans Service Office 1-(877) TRICARE fits totaling more than $19.5 million in is located in the courthouse at 330 Court St. 2014. in Eagle River. Biszak can be contacted at • CHAMPVA, 1-(800) 733-8387 “Maybe we can assist you,” said Biszak. (715) 479-3629 or [email protected] “Again, we are here to serve veterans and and Eicher at [email protected] or the their dependents.” phone number above. • Education Center, St. Louis, MO, 1-(888) GIBILL1 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Giving credit where it’s due, This military salute we salute our veterans and sponsored in part by active-duty military.

Eagle River H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

OWNER — 715-477-0501 EAGLE CARPET CLEANING We pray for God’s blessing and protection for those who risk their lives to serve our country. SHEPHERD of the LAKES LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA Welcomes you to our worship services: Saturday 5:30 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. THANKS TO OUR VETERANS & ACTIVE MILITARY! Holy Communion at every service Kirby D. Redman, O.D. • Michel P. Gelinas, M.D. • Benjamin K. Redman, O.D. 2903 State Hwy. 155, Sayner, WI 54560 141 B South Willow Street — Eagle River (715) 479-9390 715-542-3701 www.shepherdofthelakeschurch.org Toll Free (800) 441-0717 Optical (715) 477-1602 A member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 19 ‘On victory in Europe’ War correspondent Ernie Pyle’s final column published

DANA, IND. — The son of tenant farm- On Victory in Europe ing parents in west-central Indiana, Ernie By Ernie Pyle Pyle became history’s greatest war corre- And so it is over. The catastrophe spondent. on one side of the world has run its When Pyle was killed by a Japanese course. The day that it had so long machine-gun bullet on the tiny Pacific is- seemed would never come has come land of Ie Shima in 1945, his columns were at last. I suppose our emotions here being delivered to more than 14 million in the Pacific are the same as they homes, according to his New York Times were among Allies all over the obituary. world. First a shouting of the good During the war, Pyle wrote about the news with such joyous surprise that hardships and bravery of the common sol- you would think the shouter himself dier, not grand strategy. His description of had brought it about. the G.I.’s life was more important to fami- And then an unspoken sense of lies on the home front than battlefront tac- gigantic relief — and then a hope tics of Gens. Dwight Eisenhower, Douglas that the collapse in Europe would MacArthur or George Patton. hasten the end in the Pacific. Prior to the United States’ entry into It has been seven months since I World War II, Pyle traveled to England and heard my last shot in the European wrote about the Nazis’ continual bombing War. Now I am as far away from it of London. His columns helped move the as it is possible to get on this globe. mood of America from isolationism to sym- This is written on a little ship pathy for the stubborn refusal of Great lying off the coast of the island of Britain to succumb to the will of Adolf Okinawa, just south of Japan, on Hitler. the other side of the world from Ar- The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist’s dennes. legacy rests in his words and the impact But my heart is still in Europe, they had on Americans before and during a and that’s why I am writing this col- war that threatened to take the world be- umn. hind a curtain of fascism. His columns It is to the boys who were my opened a window to the hardships endured friends for so long. My one regret of by the common U.S. soldier during World the war is that I was not with them War II and serve today to honor what has when it ended. been called “The Greatest Generation.” For the companionship of two This column was never completed. A and a half years of death and mis- handwritten draft of it was found in Pyle’s ery is a spouse that tolerates no di- pocket, April 18, 1945, the day he was vorce. Such companionship finally killed by a Japanese machine-gunner. becomes a part of one’s soul, and it cannot be obliterated. True, I am with American boys in the other war not yet ended, but I am old-fashioned and my sentiment runs to old things. Famous World War II correspondent Ernie Pyle was killed by a machine-gunner on Ie Shima in To me the European War is old, the Pacific Ocean on April 18, 1945, with his final column in his pocket. —Contributed Photos and the Pacific War is new. Last summer I wrote that I Dead men in such monstrous in- Permission to republish Ernie Pyle’s col- hoped the end of the war could be a finity that you come almost to hate umn was given by the Scripps Howard gigantic relief, but not an elation. In them. Foundation and distributed by the Ernie the joyousness of high spirits it is so Those are the things that you at Pyle World War II Museum in Dana, Ind. easy for us to forget the dead. Those home need not even try to under- The Ernie Pyle World War II Museum who are gone would not wish them- stand. To you at home they are features the famous journalist’s birthplace selves to be a millstone of gloom columns of figures, or he is a near and a museum dedicated to Pyle’s life and around our necks. one who went way and just didn’t writings as a war correspondent. But there are so many of the liv- come back. You didn’t see him lying ing who have had burned into their so grotesque and pasty beside the It is owned by the Friends of Ernie Pyle, brains forever the unnatural sight gravel road in France. who are dedicated to preserving and ex- of cold dead men scattered over the We saw him, saw him by the panding the legacy of the writer whose hillsides and in the ditches along multiple thousands. That’s the dif- columns linked the soldiers on the front the high rows of hedge throughout ference. line to worried families on the home front. the world. We hope above all things that To preserve Pyle’s memory is to preserve Dead men by mass production — Japan won’t make the same stub- the sacrifices made by what has been in one country after another — born mistake that Germany did. You dubbed “The Greatest Generation.” To learn month after month and year after must credit Germany for her more about the Ernie Pyle World War II year. Dead men in winter and dead courage in adversity, but you can Museum located in Dana, Ind., or to make men in summer. doubt her good common sense in a donation to assist the efforts of the The columns of Pulitzer Prize-winning jour- Dead men in such familiar fighting blindly on long after there Friends of Ernie Pyle to honor him and nalist Ernie Pyle were read by millions of promiscuity that they become was any doubt whatever about the that generation, people can visit Americans during World War II. monotonous. outcome. erniepyle.org. PAGE 20 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Show appreciation This Memorial Day, take moment to veterans, soldiers Members of the military serve their country proudly, often sacrificing the luxu- to pay respect to our vets, soldiers ries of home and time spent with their fam- ______ilies to do so. When veterans return home from train- BY STATE REP. ROB SWEARINGEN ing or deployment, many people want to 34TH ASSEMBLY DISTRICT ______show how much they appreciate the sacri- fices made by the men and women of the In 1971, Memorial Day was written ering, this day unites Americans and al- military, but don’t know the best way to into federal law as an official U.S. holiday lows us to celebrate a tradition we all share that appreciation. with the passing of the Uniform Monday have in common. A donation to a veterans charity is one Holiday Act. It gives us an opportunity to pay our measure of support the public can offer. Once known as Decoration Day, Memo- respects and reminds us of how grateful Many charities work to serve the needs of rial Day has been an annual tradition we are to have brave soldiers who place veterans. The Wounded Warrior Project that dates back to the conclusion of Civil their lives on the line every day to protect provides rehabilitation, counseling and ac- War. our families and freedom. tivities for veterans who were wounded The roots of this holiday began in Wa- This day allows us to celebrate our tri- during service. The USO provides a variety terloo, N.Y. There, a ceremony was held umphs across the world. We celebrate of services for veterans and can always use May 5, 1866, to honor local veterans who those who put an end to communism dur- donations or volunteers. Both organizations fought in the Civil War. Owners closed ing the Cold War, silenced fascism in to do work in this area. their businesses to commemorate both the Japan and Germany, and continue to fight According to the organization Veterans Union and the soldiers who died defend- terrorism today. Inc., veterans are more at risk of becoming ing our country and its ideals. Residents If it were not for our veterans and the homeless than those who do not serve in in the community followed suit by flying U.S. military, the opportunities that we the military. Some causes of homelessness their flags at half-staff and gathering in have as Americans on a daily basis might include lack of education and transferable cemeteries, placing flowers and wreaths not be realistic today. skills after returning from military life. on the graves of their loved ones in adora- Regardless of your Memorial Day tra- Physical and mental health issues can tion of the sacrifices they made. ditions, take a moment to pay respect to make finding work challenging. Following the first Decoration Day in our veterans and current soldiers. Reach Providing support to military personnel 1866, communities throughout the United out to veterans, soldiers, friends and fami- both past and present can mean a world of States began holding memorials to honor ly members who have lost loved ones in difference. Correspond with veterans and pay tribute to the strength and struggle and assure them that you will al- through mail, email or text messages. courage of these heroes. In 1882, Decora- ways be by their side. REP. ROB SWEARINGEN Operation American Soldier establishes tion Day was officially replaced by Memo- Take a moment to reflect back on our connections between civilians and troops so rial Day to honor all those who died serv- country’s history and the moments that I hope all of you enjoy this holiday and that all soldiers receive daily mail, whether ing in American wars. symbolize America’s foundation and prin- cherish the time spent with family and it’s a care package or letter of thanks. The annual traditions on Memorial ciples. Similar to May 5, 1866, in Water- friends. Other simple ways people can give back Day are drastically different from one loo, N.Y., we will see communities across Thank you, Wisconsin veterans, for all is to personally thank soldiers for serving family to the next; however, whether it is America assemble in cemeteries to place that you have done and continue to do for their country. Share time with veterans and going to a parade, visiting a cemetery or wreaths, flowers and flags in honor of our our beloved country. ask to spend time listening to their stories memorial, or hosting a large family gath- fallen soldiers. God bless. and experiences.

We support our military! SalutingTHOSE WHO SERVED

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WE SALUTE: Never FORGET. Always HONOR. THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED THE SACRIFICES MADE BY OUR VETERANS THOSE WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE The American Legion Riders The American Legion Auxiliary Mission is “to participate in parades has one great purpose “to and other ceremonies that are contribute to the accomplishments in keeping with the aims and of the aims and purposes 4453 HWY. B, LAND O’ LAKES, WI 54540 • 715-547-3541 purposes of the American Legion.” of the American Legion.” www.painlesspetedentist.com WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 21 Eagle River VFW organized nearly 70 years ago Post is visible in community, offers public events

The Trinka-Weber-Rogers Post 8637 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) was organized in Eagle River Dec. 1, 1946. The VFW post was named in memory of fallen World War II servicemen Joe Trinka Jr., who died in France in 1943: Edward Weber, who died in New Guinea in 1944; and Chancey Rogers, who died in Germany in 1944. The group first met in a room in the Northwoods Bar on Main Street until they were able to hold their meetings and activ- ities at the Veterans Lounge on Railroad Street next to the Eagle River bridge. In 1979, a piece of property on Highway 70 West was donated to the VFW post with a provision they construct a building to memorialize the veterans from the Eagle River area. Irene Deer, Louise Edwards and Mary Palmer donated the land in memory of their parents, Pete and Josephine Peters. Plans for the building were drawn up and a building committee was formed. Their job was to construct a building of a specific size without a mortgage. This was a challenge as they had no funds for the project. By accepting the members’ donations and loans, and with volunteer labor they were able to complete the building in 18 months. They moved into the new facility in 1981 and had everything paid off in five years. In 1949, this VFW post was gratified to have women of the community organize an auxiliary to work with them on their many projects and activities. The local post follows the national The Trinka-Weber-Rogers Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post public for many of its activities, including fish fries, hamburger night guidelines in promoting comradeship 8637, located at 418 West Pine St. in Eagle River, is now open to the and taco/chicken wings night. —STAFF PHOTO among its members, assisting their needy and disabled veterans including their Community activities a flag. They also assist with the Memorial first and third Friday of every month fish wives and children, organizing memorial The post sponsors an annual essay con- Day service. fries, and a hamburger night on the services for deceased veterans and promot- test in Northland Pines schools known as In July, post members sell poppies made Wednesday following the fish fry. The post ing patriotism and community activity the “the Voice of Democracy” in the high by disabled veterans. The money raised also has taco/chicken wings night on select programs. school and the “Patriot’s Pen” in the middle goes toward local charities and many vet- Tuesdays. The current officers of the post are: and elementary schools. The post also erans’ organizations. The post offers a full-service bar with Commander Al Pittelko, Sr. Vice Comman- sponsors a scholarship for a Northland The post is visible in the community as many beverage selections. These events der Joe Smola; Jr. Vice Commander John Pines graduate who has family who are it furnishes the color guard in local pa- are open to the public. Kusko; Quartermaster Steve Rhode; Chap- veterans through Nicolet College in rades. The color guard also is present upon lain Bob Bartmann, Judge Advocate Rhinelander. request at most veterans’ funerals with For more information or to become a George Ellstrom and Surgeon Mert Every Memorial Day weekend, post vol- rifle shots, taps and a flag presentation. member, contact the VFW post at (715) Jensen. unteers decorate each veteran’s grave with The VFW post raises money through its 479-8810. Cell Phones for Soldiers collects over 11 million phones

Cell Phones for Soldiers is a 501(c)(3) Since 2004, Cell Phones for Soldiers ing cards. tion hardships. nonprofit organization that provides cost- has provided troops with more than 213 A $5 donation warrants two and one- Since July 2012, Helping Heroes Home free communication services to active-duty million minutes of free talk time and dis- half hours of talk time; a $100 donation has assisted more than 2,700 veterans and military members and veterans. tributed more than 3 million international gives 50 hours or 3,000 minutes of talk their families with emergency funding. The organization was founded in 2004 calling cards. time. There are more than 3,800 public collec- by Robbie and Brittany Bergquist, then 12 And since 2004, more than 11.6 million In 2012, Cell Phones for Soldiers tion points for Cell Phones for Soldiers and 13 years old, with only $21. cell phones have been recycled, reducing launched its newest program, Helping across the nation. A collection box for recy- Cell Phones for Soldiers relies on gener- the impact on landfills. Heroes Home, a program that provides cling used cell phones is located at Eagle ous donors for cash contributions and In 2014, Cell Phones for Soldiers dis- emergency funds for returning veterans to River Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8637 funds raised by the recycling of used cell tributed more than 9.3 million minutes of alleviate communication challenges as at 418 W. Pine St. in Eagle River. Drop-off phones. free talk time and more than 154,000 call- well as physical, emotional and assimila- times are between 2 and 6 p.m. daily. PAGE 22 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 Oneida vets office The story of taps The 24-note melancholy bugle call ready to assist heroes known as “taps” is thought to be a revision of a French bugle signal, called “tattoo,” ______that notified soldiers to cease an evening’s BY TAMMY WALTERS drinking and return to their garrisons. ONEIDA COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER It was sounded an hour before the final ______bugle call to end the day by ex tinguishing Memorial Day is upon us once again. fires and lights. The last five measures of It’s the one day a year set aside to honor the tattoo resemble taps. the men and women who gave the ulti- The word “taps” is an alteration of the mate sacrifice so that we may continue to obsolete word “taptoo,” derived from the live in a free country. Dutch “taptoe.” Taptoe was the command erate buglers. One day that is unfortunately over- — “Tap toe!” — to shut (”toe to”) the “tap” This music was made the official Army shadowed by so many other things. Kind of a keg. bugle call after the war, but not given the of sad considering 392,098 men and The revision that gave us present-day name “taps” until 1874. women gave their lives for us since World taps was made during America’s Civil The first time taps was played at a mil- War II; 392,098 people who were hus- War by Union Gen. Daniel Adams Butter- itary funeral may also have been in Vir- bands, wives, sons, daughters, brothers, field, heading a brigade camped at Harri- ginia, soon after Butterfield composed it. sisters, family and friends. son Landing, Va., near Richmond. Up to Union Capt. John Tidball, head of an ar- I ask that everyone find their own per- that time, the U.S. Army’s infantry call to tillery battery, ordered it played for the sonal way to honor these heroes and com- end the day was the French final call, burial of a cannoneer killed in action. Not fort the loved ones they left behind. “L’Extinction des feux.” wanting to reveal the battery’s position in Like all Wisconsin county veterans ser- Gen. Butterfield decided the “lights the woods to the enemy nearby, Tidball vice offices, my office makes every effort out” music was too formal to signal the substituted taps for the traditional three to take care of these heroes and all of our day’s end. One day in July 1862, he re- rifle volleys fired over the grave. heroes, as well as their family members, called the tattoo music and hummed a Taps was played at the funeral of Con- and get them all benefits to which they version of it to an aide, who wrote it down federate Gen. Stonewall Jackson 10 are entitled. in music. Butterfield then asked the months after it was composed. Army in - And yes, there are benefits available to brigade bugler, Oliver W. Norton, to play fantry regulations by 1891 required taps family members including but not limited the notes and, after listening, lengthened to be played at military funeral cere- and shortened them while keeping his to: Veterans Affairs pensions, burial bene- TAMMY WALTERS monies. fits, education benefits and property tax original melody. Taps now is played by the military at credit. It’s my job and passion to take care of He ordered Norton to play this new call burial and memorial services, to accompa- It never hurts to call your county vet- veterans and their families. If you ever at the end of each day thereafter, instead ny the lowering of the flag and to signal erans service office if you have questions have questions about benefits, please of the regulation call. The music was the “lights out” command at day’s end. about benefits. There may be nothing don’t hesitate to call my office at (715) heard and appreciated by other brigades, available to you, but if there is, it could 369-6127 or email me at [email protected] who asked for copies and adopted this This story of taps is from the U.S. De- change your quality of life. I’ve seen it da.wi.us. bugle call. It was even adopted by Confed- partment of Veterans Affairs. happen many times. Thank you for your service.

Thank you for supporting us, so we can support those who served our great country. We appreciate They Served. Stateline VFW Post 8400 and value our freedom. They Sacrificed. VFW 4492 County Hwy. B, Land O’ Lakes, Wis. God Bless VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS 715-547-3314 You All! We Salute.

CONCRETE SPECIALISTS & SUPERIOR EXCAVATING [email protected] • www.concretespecialistsandsons.com Brian Hissom 715-479-2816 Ronnie Zalewski

622 E. Wall St. Eagle River, Wis. Right next to We Salute Nelson’s Ace Hardware the veterans and active-duty To plan your visit to Three Lakes military who keep America visit www.threelakes.com Three Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center the land of the free and 715.546.3344 or 800.972.6103 [email protected] home of the brave. (715) 479-6631 WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS MILITARY SALUTE PAGE 23 Thank You to our Veterans! Friendship House Family Restaurant OPEN DAILY 6 A.M. TO 10 P.M. Serving Breakfast, Lunch, Proud to help Dinner honor veterans Land O Lakes and the military Rhinelander Three Lakes We support our troops! Woodruff 101 W. Wall St., Eagle River, Wis. • 715-479-1070 RHINADS-027

We thank our veterans & servicemen and -women for keeping America free!

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America’s Military Heroes Should Never Be Forgotten Gaffney-Busha THIS SPECIAL MILITARY SALUTE IS SPONSORED IN PART BY THREE LAKES AMERICAN LEGION POST 431 We’re Honored to Salute ALL VETERANS WELCOME TO JOIN our Veterans and the Military “When“When inin thethe region,region, stopstop atat thethe Legion”Legion” The Legion Bar America’s Propane Company RELIABLE, SAFE, RESPONSIVE 715-546-3431 www.Amerigas.com DOWNTOWN THREE LAKES • OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 1659 Hwy. 45 North, Eagle River (715) 479-7300 Live music once each month, usually the last Saturday PAGE 24 MILITARY SALUTE VILAS COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW/THE THREE LAKES NEWS WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2015 SALES SERVICE RENTAL WeWe salutesalute you!you! TThhaannkk yyoouu ttoo tthhoossee wwhhoo sseerrvvee ffoorr uuss..

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www.parsonsofeagleriver.com

Go to parsonsofeagleriver.com for Military Specials and Offers Thank You to all the brave men and women who have served or are currently serving in the military and remembering those who are no longer with us. God bless them, the families and God bless America!