College of the Holy Cross CrossWorks

The Octofoil Special Collections

11-1-1981

The Octofoil, November/December 1981

Ninth Infantry Division Association

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

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

Recommended Citation Ninth Infantry Division Association, "The Octofoil, November/December 1981" (1981). The Octofoil. 243. https://crossworks.holycross.edu/octofoil/243

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

A.~IIf1nn Du.~ 412 Gregory Ave. Weehawken, N. J. 07087 15.00 oer vear - S1.50 THE NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION well be ..marked to pay for the Octofoil Volume XXXVI Number 6 1981 't' . Nov-Dec

Annual November Service 111 WORCESTER - They were mostly late-middle-aged men ~; and they gathered early Sunday III morning in the thin November .. y~,?~ sunshine and waited for Father Edward Connors to arrive. There were about 200 men and they stood in front of the Grove Street fire station here and chatted and joked. Many were paunchy and most had thin gray hair or were bald. Then Father Connors arrived. He is 76 and tall, but a little :w,:: stooped now. All the men seem­ Reverend Edward T. Connoors who began the Memorial ed very glad to see him. He President of the association John Clouser remembers Services in 1945 in the City of Worcester, for the departed looked tired and old, but he still "our comrades" in his prayers at the Memorial Service. men of the Ninth, is shown for the 37th year he has con­ joked and laughed, so everything was all right again. Depression years in Cam­ ducted these services. Then Tom Boyle of Somer­ bridge. They were drafted iQ Waited 37 Years Station. In this hotel there will ville called out in a sergeant's February 1941, before the war Privilege and Jo~' • For Trip be 250 guest rooms and a stern voice: "All right, we're started for America ("Goodbye Again, it was a privilege and a Well, I knew it was going to be banquet room that will ac­ all set! Let's move it!" The Dear, I'll Be Back in a Year") joy to be with' the troops the a fun trip when the pilot said commodate 650. It will have Worcester Brass Band played but it was five long years and weekend of November 7 and H. I "Good evening ladies and Illany conveniences and should "The Washington Post March" eight campaigns before they think that we had about 450 9th gentlemen. welcome to be a good spot for next year. and the drums sounded first as came home for good. Division people at the Mass ­ \'eterans Day And there was Fred D'Amore American Airlines -- our flight and about 400 at the luncheon. they turned onto Grove Street. On Veterans Day in \\'01'­ of East Boston,.who has attend­ goes to Boston from Dallas As usual Saturday evening was Then it was time for the men nonstop, and our route is fairly cester at the Lincoln Square to march, time for the Work: ed every memorial service for a fine time - and the reverence Services, Franny Maher was 36 years. But most of all there simple - we will go to the of the gang at the Sunday Mass War II veterans of the famous Atlantic Ocean and turn left!" the number one man. The City 9th Infantry Division to march was Father Connors, with his and Memorial Service im­ Manager and Franny dedicated weathered face, raspy voice Being from dallas, we don't f'Iv presses all A great gang. again in an annual memorial over too much water, and as w~ the new site of the Memorial. service for the 4571 division and humorous one-liners. The As you may remember, on the There should be a large crowd night before, I had listened at a came in low over Boston occasion of our luncheon at the members who had been killed Harbor, I observed my wife at the Convention at Fort Bragg in action so long ago on bat­ party while the men of the 9th Sheraton-Lillcoln Inn, I men­ (Hope that there will be no Infantry had spoken with love holding her feet up so as not to tioned to the troops - what they tlefields across North Africa get them wet. tights with the H2nd Airborne! ) and Europe. The Ecumenical and admiration for the retired thought of my discontinuing the l<~very Grace to you and Marie pastor of the Immaculate Con­ Long lIaul frolll Dallas l'ovember Memorial Service ­ Service was started in 1946 by Father Connors holds this and your family - and we are Father Connors and Sunday ception Church here, where the because they ha ve the summer all grateful to you, Dan, for memorial services were held. Memorial I{eunion for us even convention each year - and I marked the 36th consecutive year, and my outfit -- Servic~ keeping alive the spirit of the year that it had been held here. The men were from different am wondering if } should keep Division. God bless. faiths and different Battery. 26th F .A. is up the annual November Ser­ Something happened to those basically from New England. So men when they began to march backgrounds, but they all are vice -- I shall be happy to Rev: Edward T. Connors linked forever with Father Con­ a lot of them call drive to continue .... ~ but I do not wish to ST. JOSEPH"S RECTORY together again, and it was \\'orcester, but being from beautiful to see. The talking nors who was their chaplain impose this Memorial Service Barre, Mass 01005 during those years in North Dallas, it's a long haul - so I've on the troops - but they seemed had stopped and each man had waited thirty-seven years for pulled his stomach in a little Africa and and Norman­ sincere that I should continue dy, the Ardennes, the Bulge and this trip. On Friday night we and squared his shoulders and were met at the airport and and so } shall. finally across the Rhine and in­ Tremendous Help Sound Off held his head up high, marching spent the night in Needham with to Germany itself. Franny Maher is a great help along with pride. Father Con­ Illy wife's former college Tom Boyle told how Father to me - he checks on the Father Connors' 37th annual nors was in the second row. He roommate -- who she hadn't Connors had walked three­ request for rooms - almost Memorial Mass and service is their leader. seen in :~4 years. We did all the quarters of a mile alone at dusk every day - as soon as the was beautiful. The singing of There is an athletic field next tourist things with these nice through a mine field, with Ger­ requests start coming in - and the choir, the presenting of the to the fire station and two people - like go aboard "Old mans dug in on the left, to some of the other 9th Division colors by the Worcester Police teams of young fellows in their Ironsides," something I'd Illen in the area are a Color Guard and the feeling early 20s were playing touch celebrate Mass for Capt. Paul wanted to do since I was Hyears tremendous help - Tom Boyle, Dick Hill put in to the playing of football. I was tempted to run Lynch's isolated I Company old. We ate "Scrod" down at the }{onnie Murphy - two of our "Taps" is something I will over to those young guys and before they went into battle. Wharf, took a picture of Trinity most faithful helpers - Fred always remember. I realize say, "Hey, listen! see those old Lynch and many of his men Church, and saw Boston D'Amore (who finally that I am considered one of the guys marching down there'? were killed the next morning. Common. received his just reward he local people who do not have to That's the 9th Infantry Division You meet memorable people We loved Worcester, in fact admits that he is most worthy! ) put in hours of travel to reach from World War II and they while working for newspapers, the entire New England - Herb Olsen, John Edmunds, Worcester. However, I can were combat soldiers, all of but Father Connors, Holy Cross countrysidl' with the rolling -- Connie Matulis - and Joe honestly say that no matter them - not clerks or chauf­ '27, is right near the top of my hills; and it was the end of McKenzie who write each where Father was holding this feurs or Hollywood GIs, but the list. He said these men are his Indian summer, so the leaves year to many of the men in his service, I would be there. What real thing. They were soldiers "familiy" and have been for were all pretty colors. battalion - the 26th F.A. - Bill a wonderful thing Father has and they fought, and far too almost 40 years now. But the Lifetime Experiencl' Bongiorno - and ,others. As I done for all us. Once a year we many of their pals - thousands other morning he looked tired It was a once in a lifetime have said, this November gather together, men of all of them - were killed. It was and with mock seriousness ex­ experience for me. To see guys [\lemorial Service is not a faiths to remember our honored men like them who paid in plained, "I sang the 'Wabash that I dug fox holes with, ate Worcester event - or a New dead - to remember those men blood and sadness for the Blues' too many times last and slept with for over three England Chapter - but since I who were the true heroes of our freedom too many of you young night (at the party). Somebody years was an experience am in this area, it is the men of eight campaigns. I sincerely guys take for granted today, had to liven up this old bunch." beyond description. On this area that help me - and hope this memorable occasion because absolutely nothing is So on Sunday, a tiny segment of Saturday night we had a private together we work together for never comes to an end. So free in this life. You have to pay the old 9th Infantry from 38 dinner for six of us and our the 9th Infantry Division - men please fellows, write Father a a price and..." states briefly marched together lovely wives - then on to the of all chapters, and all areas. note letting him know how They would not have believed again. Thirty-nine yearsago to dance where I sat in and played the day they had gone ashore in Plans for Next Year meaningful this Memorial Ser­ me anyway. They would have Illy cornet with the band - and I think that all went well at vice is to all of us. Enclosed is probably figured that I was North Africa to begin the long Father Connors and I did the Sheraton. The people there the article written by Jeremiah another crazy old guy wander­ and costly battle to rid the "Wabash Blues" which he sang seemed anxious to make things Murphy of the Boston Globe. ing around. So instead, I watch­ world of a dreadful evil ­ in his distinctive baritone (or right for us. The manager, Russ Read it slowly and digest the ed the veterans march along Hitler, and all he represented. was it Irish tenor? l. Although the shadows of time LeMay, called B'ranny Maher to contents for it is beautifully and there were Larry Continued on Page 5 inform him that in 1982 the done. His words do paint a true McLaughlin from Wakefield now grow longer for these men, weekend of Novem bel' 6 and 7 is picture. We are indeed proud to and Mack Umansky from the memory of their service to already booked. However, a have served our country. We Florida and Dick Hall from their country will warm their nights until the day they die. new hotel, the MarioH, will open .are indeed proud to have been Dallas and Herb Olsen from The Editors of the Detofo.1 in two months - due to open part of the famous Ninth Infan­ Randolph and ...Olsen was 19 *** SCHOLARSHIP FUND wish to thank all those who sent January 15 - so we expect to try Division and we are proud when his twin brother was kill­ that we continue to fulfill our ed at Normandy in 1944. They The following members the beautiful Christmas Cards book that hotel for next year ­ and best wishes for the New the weekend of November 6 and commitment that they shall had both served in the 9th Divi­ remembered the Scholarship I. The hotel is situated at Lin­ never be forgotten! sion. And there were Eddie Fund and the Association is Year. We would like to wish all coln Square - an easy trip to Ron Murphy McGrath of Marshfield and ever grateful. the nlembers and their families a the Church - and only a few Ronnie Murphy of Scituate, Max Umansky Merry Christmas and a Happy hundred yards from the Fire who had grown up in the John E. Thornton New Year. THE OCTO.OIL

Taps Sounded THE OCTOFOIL "Somewhere afar, Form 2579 should be sent to Some White, tremendous 412 Gregory Avenue, Weehawken, N.J. 07087 Octofoil Associated Editors daybreak and the .light, Walter O'Keeffe and Daniel Quinn Returning, shall give back National Officers Board of Governors the golden hours." President 1982 John Clouser John Clouser P.O. Box 807 Crystal River, Fla. Again it is our sad duty to an­ Crystal River, Fla.32629 nounce the passing of these Old William KlauzIf Vincent Guglielmino, 1st V.P. / , N.Y.. Reliables. 114 Charles Street i , Fred 0'Amore til' Rene D. Hoyle Floral Park, N.Y. 11001 East Boston, MA. Martin Krasovetz rn (General Retired) ~ Elmer Wagner, 2nd V.P. tr { Gibbsboro, N.J. ' Division Com mander 2833 Hotchkiss Rd. 1983 Bay City, Mi 48706 .~mil L~ngerH Morris Plains, N.J. Edward G. Garofano - Ronald Murphy, 3rd V.P. tt Charles Tingley ,t 44 Strawberry Lane St. Leonard, Md. Co D 47th Inf· ~ Scituate, Ma. 02066 Edwin Wisniewski Richmond, Mich.I'; . Harrison Daysh ., ",_- JoseQb~jI!jams(lt Herman Seibel Jacksonville, Fla. Judge Advocate ~ Co K 47th Inf. 4303 Carriage Court Gordon Anderson ~~ Kinsington,Md.20795 Des Plaines, III. 1984 Robert Kline Thomas Boyle Treasurer tWi Walter 0'Keeffen Co C 15th Eng. 39 Hall Avenue Ridgewood, N.Y. Somervijle, Mass. 02144 !it:rbert Olsen t Randolph Mass. Vance Brown Daniel Quinn, Secretary Frank wa9cl"1· Port Tabacco, Md.. 412 Gregory Avenue Co F 39th Inf. Weehawken, N.J. 07087 Roger Alsgaar 11 -- aglnaw, ich. ' ___ Art MacDougall1" Thomas Delmore Philadelphia, Pa. r, Honorary Member Emeritus Div Arty Rev. Edward Connors Brig. Gen. Rene R. Hoyle, Commanding General of Board Member Emeritus Maj. Gen. Louis A. Craig(Ret) 9th Inf. Div. while on the Carolina Maneuvers, November Steve (Smiles) Timko The official publication of the Ninth Infantry Division Associatio~. 9, 1941, greets Pvt. Francis Bozerth. For months the Single COpy price is 25 cents per issue or by mail $1.50 ~r year payable '" 1st Bn Hq 60th Inf· General had been searching for a soldier from Nevada to advance when dues are paid. Dues are $5.00 per year With $1.50?* the $5.00 earmarked for the issues of The Octofoil. Members should notIfy the Na­ make the 9th Division a truly "All American" Division by tional Secretary, Daniel Quinn, 412 Gregory Ave., Weehawken, N.J. of any George Jamison having a man from every state in the Union. change in address. 34th F.A. Published six times yearly, July-August, September-October, ROOM RESEItVATIONS November-December, January-February, March-April, ~aY-June~y and for the members of the Ninth Infantry Division AssociatIon. Ne~ Items, May they rest in peace. Ninth Infantry Division Association feature stories, photographs and art material from members WIll be ap­ preciated. Every effort will be made to return photographs and art work 37th Annual Reunion in good condition. .. To their loved ones we ex­ June 24-26,1982 An extract from the certificate of incorporation of the 9th Infa~try DIVI­ tend our deepest sympathy. sion Association reads: "This Association is formed by the offIcers and Bordeaux Motor Inn-Convention Center th~ ~~mory o~r men of the 9th Infantry Division in order to perpetruate of N~C~ fallen comrades, to preserve the espirit de corp~ of the diVISion, to assIst Maj. General Rene DeRussy 1707 Owen Drive, Fayetteville, 28304 in promoting an everlasting world peace exclUSIvely by means of educa­ Hoyle, 98, who served in the Ar­ tional activities and to serve as an information bureau to former members Please Reserve the following Accomodations: my for 39 years before retiring of the 9th Infantry Division." Single Room - I person, 1 bed $33.00 Copy must be received on or before the 15th of each month to guarantee died November 19, 1981. He was Single Room - 2 persons, I bed publication on the 20th. ., . born at West Point, N.Y. $38.{)O Second-Class Postage paid at Union City, N.J. AuthOrized as of October September 16, 1883, son of the Double Room - 2 persons, 2 beds $40.00 1, 1967. Late Eli and Fanny DeRussy $5.00 Charged each additional person per room. Volume XXXVI Number 6 Noy-Dec 1981 Hoyle. His father graduated The above rates include tax from West Point in 1875 and his Publication No. 402820 grandfather, Rene E. DeRussy Please print or type and indicate Day and Date: Please in 1812. Confirm.... General Hoyle graduated from West Point in 1906. Be­ (I) (We) will arrive DEADLINE NEARS FOR. tween World War I and II he and depart SCHOLARSHIP APPLICANTS held numerous command and staff positions and at the out­ Name break of World War 2 as a Brig. THE MEMORIAL FUND O~- Gen. he served as artillery Address THE 9TH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION commander of the 9th Infantry Scholarship Information Division artillery. Promoted to City General in 1942 he com­ The Memorial Fund of the Ninth Infantry Division Association manded the 9th Division until State Zip...... Has established by the members of the association to commemorate his transfer to Camp Roberts the memory of their comrades who paid the supreme sacrifice in California the same year. battle. As a part of this fund the association established a scholanlhip Telephone Today's date .... " .. program. Scholarships are awarded each year to relatives of men who 34th F.A. 8n. served in The Ninth Infantry Division. Each scholarship is for one One Night's Room Deposit (Please include check, made year. MRS. TERESA JAMISON 43 Central Ave. Payable to Bordeaux Motor Inn) required to guarantee ELIGIBILITY FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICAnON Reservation. A person who wishes to apply for a scholarship must be related to Whiting, N.J. 08759 a man who served with The Ninth Infantry Division. Children of The reunion rates will be offered to any early arrivals former members of the division will be given fust consideration, but I am writing to inform you beginning June 20, 1982. Reservations must be made by children of men killed in combat given fllSt preference. Applicants that my husband, George, a June 10th or regular and higher room rates may bt, who are not children of former members of the division wiD not be member of your association, charged. considered unless no child of a former member qualifies. passed away suddenly on Nov. Suites available ---- Telephone 919-323-0111 APPLICAnON PROCEDURE 4, 1981. He was a corporal at­ The following procedures must be followed by those wishing to tached to the 34th F.A. Perhaps Correction: Room Reservations-1982 Reunion. We regret apply for the scholarships: some of his comrades would that the price of a single room was misquoted in the Sept­ 1. Send a letter of application, written in expository form, to the Oct issue of the Octofoil-it should read $33.00 for a single. chairman of the scholarship committee stating the following: remember him. George just name, address, age, and sex of the applicant; name, address, and retired Aug. 1 and we moved to occupation of the applicant's parents or guardians; the name and a lovely community in Ocean NI

Charles Tingley reporting for Co. F, 60th Inr. BOARD OF GOVERNORS Herb Olsen opened a discus­ the D.C. Chapter condemns the mail call PHILIP BERMAN MEETING sion on use of resort areas for Board action of a few years ago 10 Seahawk Dr. reunion sites. Upon a motion when they censored a members IIq. :~rd Bn. 47th Inf. Ormond Beach, FL 32074 The 141st meeting of the Na­ duly made by Herb Olsen and tional Board of Governors was letter for the Octofoil. They AL FRAVIN seconded by Marty Krasovetz it would also like to have the 420 Fairview Ave. I read in the last Octofoil that held in Worcester, was voted: Inquire of the Oct. 20, 1981 was the last day to Massachusetts on November 7, minutes of the meetings Fort Lee, N.J. 07024 members through the Octofoil reported in detail. Consider Wish to compliment Art get articles in the next Octofoil, 1981, at 3: 10 P.M., at the 'for resort areas for reunion so I sat down immediately to Sheraton-Lincoln Motor Lodge. printing the names of the Stenzel on the fine article in the sites. members in the Octofoil (also Sept.-Oct. issue of the Octofoil. write. I have been putting it off Attending the meeting were The president John Clouser for a while, being busy, busy, their addresses) It was very descriptive and President of the Association busy! I am the secretary of the called upon Boardman Ed Wisniewski reporting for interesting. Enclosed is an old John Clouser, Herb Olsen, Mar­ Florida chapter and would like Lockwood a member of the the Michigan Chapter told the picture taken during the tin Krasovetz, Arthur Mac­ to write about the last meeting Memorial Marker committee members of a Christmas party summer of 1942 from the steps Dougall, Charles Tingley, Fred we had in Sarasota on Sept. 18, as to the wording on the that will be held by the of the post office. When I passed D' Amore, Edwin Wisniewski, 19,20,1981 at the Hyatt Sarasota Marker. Upon a motion made members on December 6th and through Fayetteville in 1965 the Emil Langer, Frank Wade. bv Marty Krosovetz and Hotel. We had 15 members show at that time they will install the town looked pretty good. This Also present were 1st Vice s~condedby Frank Wade it was up from all over Florida, President Vincent Guglielmino, new officers for the coming past Nov. 5, on my drive back voted by the majority body from Florida I decided to see Jacksonville to Miami to Ft. Treasurer Thomas Boyle, year. They have committees (there were two negative votes) the old town once again and Myers, etc. Since it was on Judge Advocate Harrison working on the plans for the rather short notice, and I am to include on the monument on 1983 reunion that their chapter' perhaps spend the day there. Daysh, former Presidents equal status the Viet Nam Con­ My mind started to play tricks having some trouble with the Francis Maher, Ron Murphy, will host. The Out-State right addresses, we think it was flict. meeting held in Angola, Ind. on me as I was driving along. I Bill Bongiorno and members Upon a motion made by Emil pictured myself walking down a nice turnout. Friday night, Boardman Lockwood, Sal was a success with 82 members some members' wives attended Langer and seconded by Herb and guests gathered at the Holi­ the main street with my 9th Div. Trapani and George Apar. Olsen it was voted to: Dedicate hat on and people stopping me a nice dinner-theater. Saturday President Clouser askp-d the day Inn on October 16th & 17th. morning we had a board the Memorial Marker to all John Clouser reported for the and saying "You're from the members to Istai'iU for a mo­ those who served with the Ninth famous 9th Division, good to see meeting at 11 AM and then a ment of silent prayer in Infantry Division with the wor- Illinois chapter and he told of a -2neral meeting of members at Christmas party being held on you". I had a rude awakening memory of the departed men of ding: when I saw the change that had 1:00 , transacted some small the Ninth. In memory of those who serv­ December 5th along with their business affairs, including regular meeting. taken place. (Art's article The secretary read the ed in World War 2 1941-1945 described the town perfectly). paying dues to our treasurer, minutes of the 140th meeting of In memory of those who serv­ Due to the absence of a who will forward it to you. The member from Florida the To be honest with you, I just the Board of Governors and ed in Viet Nam - 1964-1969 drove through the town slowly hotel was absolutely wonderful, upon a motion duly made by Plans for the 1982 reunion secretary reported on the pro­ food, rooms. service, 2 gress of the newly formed and didn't even get out of the Herb Olsen and seconded by were discussed in order to give car. For me it was a sad ending restaurants, pool, fishing pier Marty Krasovetz it was voted the committee a format for the Florida Chapter. and a reasonable rate. Mem­ Thomas Boyle the treasurer for a nice army town. My wife to: Accept the reading of the three days. Basically the three came down from New York and bers present were Pres. minutes as read and instruct evening affairs will be as held suggested that a committee be Trahey, Vice-Pres. Pappas. established to study the we were married in the court the secretary to place copy of in the past but the day program house Dec. 25, 1941. Many towns Treasurer Santos and myself, same on file. will depend upon the dedication feasibility of re-investing funds Johnstone. McLaughlin. now in Mutual Funds. throughout the country have The treasurer, Thomas of the Memorial Marker and suffered the same fate. So when McDonald, Wilson, Zwicker, Boyle, gave his report for the Memorial Service. It was also suggested that Shankman, Randle, Ayers. Boardman Lockwood who is in you all get there for the reunion. three month period ending in Solicitations for the Reunion enjoy the comradeship and the Privett and Dulong. We had a September, a detailed account Program will be discontinued. the Travel Business explore the dinner Saturday evening and idea of a trip to North Africa, excellent facilities prepared for of the spendings and income of At the General Business you at the hotel. (;eneral Randle gave a flowing that quarter. Upon a motion du­ meeting member qualifications Sicily, Rome. discourse on some of his ex­ ly made by Ed Wisniewski and will be checked. President Clouser states that periences while with the 9th. He seconded by Fred D'Amore it Members in good standing at­ he has written to a number of is a wonderful speaker and we ('0. F., :mth Inf. was voted to: Accept the members requesting that they all enjoyed him. May he be at tending the meeting will be ex­ PAUL BROWN treasurers report. express their views pro and con many more meetings. The pected to have their member­ 250 Brookview Dr. President Clouser called ship cards in their possession. on the subject of changing our dinner was delicious and then upon Ron Murphy for the final By-laws in order to open the Follansbee. W. Va. 26037 we all adjourned to the The General Chairman for Enclosed is my dues for report of the 1981 reunion. Mur­ the Reunion will be John membership to those who serv­ hospitality suite for food, drink phy thanked everyone who at­ ed with the Ninth other than in membership for 3 years plus a and comradeship. The next Clouser. William Martin donation to the Marker fund in tended the reunion and told the and Daniel Quinn will be Co­ World War 2. Their replies will meeting of the l<'lorida chapter members of the compliment be published in the Octofoil. memory of my brother, Vance will be April 23, 24, 25, 1982 at a Chairman. Brown, who was also a member received from the Dunphy's There being no other business site to be picked later. I will Publicity Committee will con­ of F, Co. 39th. He passed away Hotel people in Hyannis on the sist of: Walter O'Keefe, Daniel to come before the Board and advise all the members when behavior of our group, always upon a motion duly made by Art III Jan. 1976. Hope to see you at and where later. Well, that's all Quinn and Elmer Wagner. {<'t. Bragg. It was good to see courteous, always friendly and Thursday evening social MacDougall and seconded by for now, except that any Florida yet enjoying themselves. Ron Fred D'Amore it was voted to: Ward Payne's letter in the living men of the 9th Division Chairmen will be: Roger Octofoil, he was my platoon asked Thomas Boyle the Adjourn the meeting at 7:20 who were not sent notices of our Alsgard and Edwin Wisniewski. leader and recommended me treasurer of the reunion to P.M. chapt~r meetings, can write me Friday Night: Chairmen for the Bronze Star, make the financial report. Marty Krasovetz and Art Mac­ Respectfully submitted, and I will see that they get on Boyle reported that a profit of Dougall. Daniel Quinn our list. Have a happy, safe and $1,310.21 had been realized Saturday Night Banquet­ National Secretary wonderful holidays and we will from the reunion and that Chairman. Chairman Emil see you all at Ft. Bragg next $1,335.00 had been collected for Langer. Celebrates 75th Birthday June, God willing. the Scholarship fund. He turned Memorial Service-Chairmen over to the President a check Herb Olsen, Frank Wade and W7_il.f.·._~.·' for $2,645.21. Boardman Lockwood. ;; .... Clouser thanked the reunion President Clouser will ask for committee for a wonderful reu­ volunteers from the Board ... nion and upon a motion duly Members to assist with the made by Ed Wisniewski and various committees. seconded by Charles Tingley it Expenses incurred by Board was voted to: Accept the report members attending meetings of the 1981 reunion committee. were discussed and upon a mo­ IF...... ::;...:.;.:.:. tf1(!?!!i)J.))}Jr Charles Tingley made a mo­ tion duly made by Frank Wade '::' tion that was seconded by Art and seconded by Emil Langer it MacDougall to: Grant the New was voted to: Reimburse England Chapter a gratuity of William Bongiorno the sum of $100.00 for a job well done. $200.00 for his trip to Fay­ A discussion was held on the etteville, North Carolina in IIr~~iY recommendation of a Fidelity order to set up a convention Blanket Bond for the associa­ hotel etc., for the 1982 reunion. tion. Upon a motion duly made No unauthorized expenses (in by Frank Wade and seconded the future) will be reimbursed by Emil Langer it was voted to: unless approved by the Board. Obtain a bond of $25,000.00 to President Clouser called ,:,\~~~; cover the Secretary and the upon the Board members for a treasurer of the annual reunion. report of their chapters. Emil A discussion on theuse of per­ Langer from the New York manent name tags for reunions Chapter reported that the ended with the Board members chapter was very active with 35 expressing their opinion that it or more members attending the ,. would not be practical. I'· meetings held the first Friday ~~ Upon a motion duly made by of each month (except July­ Marty Krasovetz and seconded Aug) at the 25th Street Armory The Rt Rev Monsignor Anthony DeLaura, third from right, and former Chaplain of the by Fred D'Amore it was voted on Lexington Avenue. A 47th Infantry Regiment celebrated his 75th birthday on October 25, 1981. Shown with to: Increase the price of the Christmas party for the "himself"-left to right-Rt-Rev. Msgr. Edmond J. Trench-Pastor Blessed Sacrament 60th History to $2.00. members will be held on Church, Rev. Walter Swietek, Rev Clement J Walsh, Rev. Larry Duncklee and Rev. The Board recommended December 13. Nicholas Lortorello. After celebrating Mass at Blessed Sacrament Church, Valley that registration at reunions be Thomas Boyle reports that Stream, N.Y. a reception was held at the Church Hall. Perhaps the excitement was too opened early and if possible the New England Chapter is much for the Monsignor for later that day he was rushed to the hospital with a heart before the first day of the re­ again on the move forward seizure. As we go to press we heard from our Vice-president Vincent Guglielmino who union. It would be a great aid to after a most successful reunion the reunion committee in order attended the mass and reception and Vincent tells us that the Monsignor has been held in Hyannis. released from the hospital but will have "to take it easy". Although officially retired to determine how many people Marty Krassovetz reports would attend the reunion. It Monsignor DeLaura keeps active by assisting at Blessed Sacrament Church. We know progress for the Philly­ he would love to hear from the "old gang" and he can be reached at PO Box 67, Garden would also eliminate standing Delaware Valley Chapter. in lines w~iting to register. City, N.Y. 11530. THE OCTOFOiL Life Complete for Matt Urhan This letter, written by Fred Christmas of 1944 Scott, Jr., of 291 Lakeview Why, to get back to the front. To Avenue, Ocean, N.J. "When I fight some more war. To be Just before the German heard about Matt Urban being with his men. To be leading the break-through I was in 0 house awarded the it battle. To be where he belong­ in Duren, Germanv with my brought back many thoughts of ed. Picture this. Shot through buddies, 6 men in a s~quad on thO this great soldier," Scott wrote. the throat. In one side and out 81 mortars on the Roer River. He served with Urban during the other. Voice box impaired. The snow, rain and sleet was World War II. "These are No voice. He now goes AWOL. falling and it was cold. I tried to thoughts, impressions and Why? He had not reached Ger­ keep warm. Soon the Germans things I have talked about for man soil. Back to the front dropped paratroopers and the more than 30 years whenever across the Rhine in a small Battle of the Bulge had begun. the topic of the war has come boat. Set his feet on German The breakthrough took place to up. Every word is uttered in soil and now back to the my left, to the front of the 106th praise, I have always felt that hospital to be repaired. Like I InL Division. The Germans took just knowing Matt was like my said, all soldier. Crazy maybe, many prisoners including my receiving an award," Scott but all soldier. brother-in-law, Bob Yenser. We I gained the impression that wrote. Matt Urban and President are shown in got orders to pull out. We left Matt felt he was going home Duren and moved through tht.' Life is now complete for Matt 1980 when the President of the United States was about to ~issing something. He was go­ hills and dark Hurtgen Forest Urban. present Matt Urban with the Medal of Honor A stor in Nothing else will ever be mg home without the Medal of Decem~er recalls~he toward Malmandy. The roads Honor. It just didn't seem right. the 1981 issue of the Readers Digest were icy and narrow dirt roads. needed. event and IS called "The Hero We Nearly Forgot". He has the "Big" one, the I am sure that after several bat­ Trucks and tanks slid off the Congressional Medal of tles he looked back at what he roads into the ditch. It was cold Honor... had done and had the feeling and dark. We reached the Recently my wife looked up that this would surely earn outskirts of Malmandy in from an article she was reading him the "big" one, the top darkness. The next morning Wl' in the newspaper and asked, prize, the Medal of Honor. Not were told we would be here for a "Who was that Lt. Col. you that he felt he was better than few days to train for river were always talking about? I anyone else. I told you this was crossing. That night I walked think he was just awarded the all soldier, all thoughts were of into a house which had two old Medal of Honor." Nothing rang the battle at hand. Destroy the \\omen and an old man and two a bell so I walked over and look­ enemy, kill or be killed. He had (as who were rifle men. The old ed at the story she was reading. seen the medal being given to lolks gave us coffee and food Here was a picture of President others and in his heart and soul and we drank a toast to knew he had done as much. (He Pho=:~~j ('hristmas. Then we sang Carter wiping away a tear after :andY Bryant sends he had awarded the Congres­ really did, maybe a good deal Christmas carols, the old folks mer ,,:hen he visited France. "Inland road, the (~erman sional Medal of honor to Lt. Col. more). III and I in .English and memorials that can be seen in the foreground and (~erman Matt Urban. There was not bitterness in and the old man played backg!Ol~nd are Division Memorials erected by Division Thirty years late in coming not getting it, just the feeling the piano. We spent hours with but here it was. Life has been that he had not accomplished AssocIatIons". them singing and laughing and fulfilled. Surely, here was the what he was there to ac­ torgetting all about the war. pot of gold at the end of the rain­ complish. After all, that was This was Christmas. The old bow for Matt Urban. So very why he was there. Just an emp­ Illan played piano pretty well at well deserved. This award was ty felling, something I left un­ that. Next day 1 knew really earned, perhaps it was done. I failed. What was it? something happened, because we were told to pack up, load up earned several times. Truly, a Where did I miss out? Where and move out. Little did I know great soldier. I think from the did I go wrong? the Germans were coming. We day he was born the Medal of You didn't, Matt. After all sure got out of Malmandy in a Honor was predestined. He, these years it has been cor­ rected. It is yours. The Presi- hurry. Then we fought our way more than anyone I ever met to Monschau. There we held the had to earn it. •dent of the United States gave it to you. God bless you Matty. southern land of thl' If my wife had said Major I breakthrough against the would have known at once You earned it and now you have it. All these years I thought they (;ermans until Gen. Patton Ma tt was a Major when I met moved up from the south. We him. Matt was in the Ninth and had cheated you. I am so very happy for you. dug a hut in the side of the hill so was I. Here let me highlight tor 8 men. We had a few men hit a small difference. I was a Matt Urban now resides in Holland, Michigan. Holland from the company. We also took replacement officer with the M~chigan some German paratroopers Ninth. I lasted all of three or you have in you; mIdst one of the great soldiers trying to get back to their lines. four days. Matt was in the This was a Christmas I'll never Ninth all the way, from Africa of all time. You too can be pro­ ud. forget. Only after I got out of to Germany. Sometimes I l\lalmandy did 1 learn the thought Matt was the Ninth. I am sure that when the time comes for us to leave this earth Germans captured American Some seven months after I join­ soldiers, they did not take ed the Ninth I was sent back to certain thoughts have to flash through our mind. Thoughts prisoners. All were shot down the States and so was Matt. murdered in the field b; Here is where I met him and about your wife, the children, happy times with friends. Love machine guns mounted on the became a buddy for the next 30 back of trucks, one GI survived! days or so. As it was with and the home. I am sure that .such will be the case with Matt This was Christmas, my everyone I held him in great Christmas of 1944! Merry awe. All soldier from head to Urban, but in addition he will be blest with thoughts that few can Christmas and a Happy New toe. During the ~ar I don't Year to all. think he ever had a thought of have. He will be hearing the 47th InL Co. D. anything except what he was bugles sounding the charge. He EMERSON H. GROSS there to do, fight a war, kill the will be leading men into battle. 7515 Miller Dr. E. Allen Twn­ enemy, get shot, get up and He will be atop a tank firing a shp. fight some more. Be with the machine gun at the enemy. He Bath, Pa. 18014 troops. Be with his men. Help will be planning the next battle. Off in the distance he will hear Continued from Page 1 them with the battle. Honored to Hugle Taps General Patton once slapped the sound of cannon. He will be hearing the faint far drums The Memorial Mass was a soldier. Had he ever known beautiful, and Father Connors Matt he would have hugged beating the long roll. The rattle of musketry, the mourning honored me by allowing me to him, he would have kissed both bugle "Taps" for our fallen cheeks, he would have proudly mutter of the battlefield, the ~mell of death so often present comrades by the Memorial saluted Matt Urban. This was outsid~. The. weather was dry his kind of people, made from m battle. He will be in the war all over again. Then he will join and CrISp - Just perfect for our the same cut of cloth. They both march up the hill from the fire marched to the beat of the same th.e .r~nks of the Ninth Infantry DIVISIOn on the other side and station to the church. We ended drummer. All soldier, from the up this great reunion with a big day he put on the uniform until once again he will take his place leading. His very last luncheon for everyone after the day he stepped out of it. And mass. There were a lot of guys after he stepped out of it, I'm thoughts might well be of the Ninth and the slight sign of a that I ~adn 't seen since I got sure there was a great void in busted for "swinging"· Reveille his life. The war was over. They smile may well be saying, "I feel the hands of the President on my French trumpet that I took away his gun. No more picked up in a hock shop in fighting. They took away from of the United States reaching around my neck with the Medal Algiers. Matt a large part of his life. I Well, it was a ball - we flew actually believe he loved it. He of Honor. By an act of Congress I have been awarded my coun­ I?ack to Texas, after lTamming lived it. He looked forward to four days into two, completely every battle. He was there to do try's highest military award, the Congressional Medal of t'xhausted. But, as we leaned a job and he found the job to his back in thl' plane with the liking. Like everyone else on Honor." Matt Urban will be at peace. earphones on, we listened with a the boat and in the hospital I put smile on our faces to Tommy him on a pedestal. He had more Bill Canales, Company K 47th Dorsey's "Sunny Side of the awards than most of the rest of Infantry, supplies the Oc­ Street" circa 1942 and us put together. Everyone held \\ere grateful for "Our Sen­ him in awe. Wounded seven tofoil with pictures taken qifi timental Journey." times. Can you picture someone at the Worcester, Memorial '/1JWi Dick Hill and wife, being wounded seven times? Services. .«' .. Phyllis Several of these times he went Al BraVlll sends this photo of Fayetteville, N.C. from the ;-)16Wdgedale Drive AWOL from the hospital. Why? summer of 1942. The picture was taken from the steps of }{ichardson, Texas 75080 the former Post Office which is now a library. 26th F.A. THE 0 C TO F 0 , L

Return To Remagen and Other Places the edge of town where we had our Company CP is still there pier, the remains of the and still recognizable. Up the Happy Experience I{emagen Bridge on the west street the barn where the TD It was a happy experience I bank, looking very much as it Platoon Commander was killed had recently, being able to did in March of 1945 when I is still there. In general, the spend eight days in Germany. crossed it with 'F' Company. It area a~oun? Obergeich is v~ry Most of that time was spent i~ a iitUe hani tu ue:scribe the much lIke It was in December visiting places, towns and areas feeling of walking up towards 1944. Even the open field ap­ where I had been in World War the bridge, almost the same proach to town that we had to II with 'F' Company of the 60th path that the company had ta.ke that day is still open and Infantry. followed back in 1945. There is a still looks as difficult to cross as Our trip began in Frankfurt. museum in that end of the it was that afternoon. We drove After a day in Frankfurt and bridge, or the Remagen side of on through Duren which is now another day in Wiesbaden I the bridge, however, it is only a la.rge town, having grown headed. the rented car in the open on a part time basis and ~onslderably since we knew it in direction of Linz and Remagen. we wanted to move on without December of 1944. We took a I was particularly interested in waiting until the museum short side trip into Cologne visiting Remagen inasmuch as I opened. We did, however, come primarily to see the Dom back to Remagen later in the Cathe?ra1. It is certainly an had crossed the bridge with 'F' Me~bers. Company before the bridge week and spend some time in of Company B 60th Infantry are met by Imposmg structure and anyone B.elglan~ collapsed. On the road from the museum looking at the In Macon as their patrol enters the town. The who hasn't seen it and has an Wiesbaden to Linz we passed pictures and reading a little bit pIcture IS dated Sept. 1944. opportunity to do so should through the territory that the about the crossing and the certainly make the effort. We Ninth Division and the 60th bridge before the Americans may remember was one of the opportunity to leave the high­ left Cologne and drove back Infantry had crossed during captured it in 1945. first towns captured in Ger­ v.:a~ and do some cross-country down to Hemagen. in order to breakout from the Remagen Around Monschau many. 'F' Company was there hlkmg or travel, it was hard to see the museum. After visiting Bridgehead, and some of the We left Remagen and headed in September of 1944. It's just. recognize anything in the the museum we returned to towns which had significance in for the area that I was par­ across the Belgium border and Hurtgen Forest area. Many Weisbaden to prepare for our those days of combat in March ticularly interested in visiting south of Acchen. Outside of places looked a little familiar trip home. of 1945. We followed the river because so much of the time I town I found a section of the but whether they were th~ :\ostalgic Experience into Linz, past many of the was with the 9th Division and Siegfried Line still intact, actual sites where we were in· ~l in all our trip was most vineyards that everyone who 'F' Company of the 60th although somewhat grown over. 1944 is difficult to determine. l:nJoyable. For me, in par­ was there will remember, In"fantry we had spent in and This was an area that I Wanted to Visit tIc~lar, it was a nostalgic ex­ particularly the champagne around the town of Monschau. remember because 'F' Com­ We went from that area into perIence, being in the places I which arrived with our daily (10 the way there we drove pany had been in that exact site the Duren area. The partiCUlar had b.een before, recalling thl' rations in March of '45. We through a number of towns. We in September of 1944 and some places I wanted to visit were the experIences of combat in many drove along the river to the stopped at the town of Heim­ 'F' Company men who read this towns of Mariaweiler, Hoven of those areas and sadly remains of the old Remagen bach, located on the Sch­ will probably recall having been Giech, and Obergeich. Thos~ l'nough, having to recall the Bridge. The area around the wamanuel Dam. That part of there. On the second day in the were the towns that the 2nd Bn price we paid in terms of men eastern end of the bridge is now the dam is used as a recreation Monschau area we drove into 60th Infantry were involved in killed and wounded and thank­ a nature park. We were ~ble to center. It's the east side of the Belgium through Eupen, capturing back in December of ful that I had been fortunate park the car and walk up to the dam, the one we didn't get to in Malmedy, and down to 1944. 'F' Company people wilJ enough to survive the ex­ bridge pier and the tunnel~tliat February of 1945. From there Bastogne. Although the 9th remember that we had our perience and be able to return we ran into upon crossing the we headed on into Monschau. Division was not involved in the Company CP in what was then a again. We all found Germany a bridge. The tunnel has now been On the way we passed through Battle of Bastogne, it was a hardware store on the main pleasant place to be. We found sealed off and the area around the town of Dreiborn which significant action and the 9th intersection of Mariaweiler. the tunnel and the bridge pier again is of particularly Division was very much in­ pretty well grown up. We drove significance to 'F' Company, volved in the Battle of the Bulge back through the town of Linz, one of the many towns we were on Elsenborn Ridge. We saw the however it has changed so much involved in capturing. As with Memorial, but arrived too late that other than the name of the most of those towns there is a lot to see the museum. We drove town I recognized very little. I of new housing, remodeled through territory that the 9th had hoped to make a visit to the housing and only an old building Division had been in and out of stone quarry that we used for an here and there that would ap­ several times, through Houf­ observation post, but was pear to have been in existence falize and some of those towns unable to arrange that. We when we were there. I'm sure in southern Belgium. We drove drove on east from Linz past the there are a number of them, but back to Monschau by way of factory, located at the in­ they're not readily identifiable, Liege and Verviers. I was a tersection of the two roads just at least they weren't to me. In little disappointed that time did a mile from town, which caused most of the little towns the not permit a trip to Camp us so much difficulty in trying to churches are still there and Elsenborn inasmuch as we had expand the bridgehead. Fron often times are the only 'old' spent some time there and I was there we drove to the town of St. appearing buildings still curious as to how much it might Katherine, a town that 'F' standing. The farms and terrain have changed. Company had captured in around Dreiborn look very Around Duren March of '45. As an illustration much the same as they did when Time was getting short and of the changes that have taken we made our attack on the town we decided we had better leave place, I spent 30 minutes in Janaury 1945. Monschau and head for the l\letropolitan Area other area that I particularly looking for the town of Lor­ Mariaweller, Germany dated December 15, 1944 schied which according to my From there we drove into the wanted to visit. That was the memory was on the same road area of Monschau which is now area around Duren. We left That corner is now occupied by" almost a metropolitan area Monschau, driving through the the people quite t'flendly and as St. Katherine, but another a restaurant. The church in even though we spoke little or mile or so east. After spending a incorporating the towns of Hurtgen Forest and the town of I\lariaweiler and some other Hofen, Kaltenberg, Monschau, Schmidt, which the 9th Division no German, and in many of the half hour looking for the town, I bl;lildings are obviously places we visited, found no one stopped and inquired and was Mutznich, Imgenbroich. The will remember quite well. Most buildings that were there in general appearance of Mon­ of the houses in Schmidt as you who could speak much English, assured that there was a town of 1944. In general the towns of we were able to get a place to Lorschied. However, what had schau is very similar to the way can well imagine, are new l\lariaweiler, Geich, and sleep, get a meal, buy a beer, do happened was that St. I remember it in September of houses. You will recall that it Obergeich have probably some shopping, and in general Katherine and Lorschied have 1944 and later in January of was nearly demolished during t:hanged as little as any of the had no significant problems grown and moved together so 1945. However, it has changed the many battles in and around towns I visited. The town of from start to finish. Even, that there is now one town and is now the center of a schmidt and the Hurtgen ()bergeich was a town that 'F' Iraveling on the highway was rather than two separate towns summer resort area with many Forest. The area looks even Company had captured. It was not that difficult once we that 'F' Company could shops, hotels, etc... We stayed in more formidable, terrain-wise, a _particulary difficult learned the key to their system remember. Once I discovered a hotel outside of town on the than it did back in October of operation one afternoon with of sign posts and· direction what had happened the road to Eupen. According to the 1944. As I drove over some of the llIore casualties then even now I signals. We had food that topography and the land around information at the hotel it was modern highways I wondered like to remember. Obergeich ranged from good to excellent. St. Katherine and Lorschied there in 1939 so I assume the how we ever managed to get looks very much like it did when certainly much better than the began to look a little more building was there when we through the woods. Without the we were there. The building at food I had had back in the familiar. After a little sight­ \vere although I do not winter of 1944-45. There were a seeing in the town of Linz and a remember it. It is right on the num bel' of places I didn't get to little shopping we decided to road from Eupen to Monschau see and I'm hopeful that I can find a place to stay and wound where the road turns to go down makl' another 'Return to up at the castle outside of Linz, into Monschau. I{emagen' trip and see some Burg Ockenfels which some of Difficult Day additional places and recall you may remember. I was not While there in the Monschau some of the experiences that I familiar with the location of the area we spent some time in shared with the men of 'F' castle or its existence, Monschau itself. We drove to ('ompany 60th Infantry from inasmuch as I had been on the Imgenbroich, a town just September of 1944 to April 1945. other end of town with my outside of Monschau that is ('lifford M. Painter company. Wehada goodnight's important only to me per­ sleep, as well as an excellent 240 Ha\vthorne Rd. sonally. We also drove to the Washington, Pa. 15301 meal in the castle which has town of Konzen, a town of some now been converted into a hotel. significance for 'F' Company. One of the platoons had a liard to Describe particularly difficult day We did a little more shopping making a diversionary attack in the morning and then took the on the :3rd of January 1945 at the ferrY across the Rhine from time the attack was made to cut Lin; to the town of Kripps, and off the Germans to close the Battle of The Bulge. On beyond Remains of the Remagen Bridge on the East bank of the then from Kripps went down Rhine as shown in 1970 when the association members re­ river to Remagen. We found the the town of Konzen, I drove to the town of Roetgen which some visited the E.T.O. *** THE 0 C TO F 0 I L

Co. C 9th Med. Bn. Co. G, 47th Inf. X4th FA, B Btry. mall call· JOHN W. SANTORO Continued from Page 8 (;EORGE BAKO SAMUEL ROBINSON 47th Inr. Hq. Co. I&R Platoon 62 King St. 5275 Monroe Ave. Apt. 7 ;{ Rock Ave. Reading, Ma. 01867 LAWRENCE D. MARTIN 60th Int'. San Diego, CA 92115 Swampscott, Ma. 01907 As a -new member I went to 1418 Blair Loop Rd. KM.A. HIRST Just got out of· the hospital my first memorial mass in Danville, Va. 24541 6200 Wiesbaden A few hurried lines to let you after having major surgery Worcester and had a swell time. Enclosed is my donation to Gustav-Freytag STB 6 know that we have lost a buddy. (removal of section of my 'When I look back I wish I had the Marker fund. I will be at Germany Walter Kraft. He died after colon) . After 2 weeks in the joined sooner because I sure Fort Bragg next year God Dear Friends: returning from Switzerland on hospital, I had no time to send willing. Sure wish I could locate Even though still continually missed a lot. The only thing I Sept. 28, 1981 of a massive heart wish I had found some men of out my regular Christmas more of the I & R platoon. I'm harrassed, pestered, plagued, & attack. A man during his life is cards, so I'm letting the Octofoil Co. C 9th Medics there. Plan on enclosing a picture that Chris tormented by the IRS, who many faces to many people. He send out Joyous Greetings to all Patterer made in Germany. All seem to believe we are the font going to Bragg in June and hope was my friend. May he rest with to find some of you there. my friends and good health to I remember is the fellow on the of support, this has been a suc­ those other buddies who have each and everyone and their right is Busch. I have heard cessful year for the Hirst fami­ gone on before. God Bless Them families. God Bless! See you in from Chris, but for Mike and ly, filled with surprises, suc­ ('0. F, 47th Inf. All. GEORGE KING Worcester in '82. Busch I have heard nothing. cesses and succor - perhaps 44 Park St. Looking forward to seeing some that is why Vergil once said, 15th Engrs. Co. A Personnel Section Phelps, N.Y. 14532 . buddies at Bragg. So come on I 'Haud ignara mali miseris, suc­ ANTHONY SOPRANO liOth In£. It's that time of year agam & R Plattoon - be there! currere disco. One thing always 713 Delaware Ave. J. GRAFF BOMBERGEH and somehow it keeps coming Norwood, Pa. 19074 :{7 Spanish Villa Drive ~7th asks the help of another. around faster and faster! All's Inf. Hq. Co. 2nd Bn. Enclosed find my con­ Jeannette, PA 15644 Ronald Paul has gained his well in Finger Lakes country ­ HOWARD FITZPATRICK tribution to the Memorial Dear Dan: Master of International retirement is so great, it should :2 Overdale Dr. Marker Fund. On my way home Heading over the latest issue Business from the University of be sinful. Hope you and Marie Louisville, Ky. 40229 from Hyannis in June, I stopped of The Octoboil reminds me South Carolina, gained his are well and enjoying life to its After several years of being Columbia. Inge has gained' a to see Ed Fida in Com berland, anew how remiss I've been in out of the association, I decided fullest. Merry Christmas to all. getting a Marker Fund donation Master's rating in international P.S. Tony and Terry Repetti, R I. He is still the same old it was about time I got back in. Fida. I had an enjoyable visit to the Association. So a check bridge competition and Scotty Red and Esther Hoffman Enclosed is membership dues with him. I also had the op­ for same is enclosed herewith. has laid the foundation for his 9 visited us this fall and we really and thanks Dan for sending me portunity to speak by phone Other than for that petty January 1982 retirement after enjoyed them. the Octofoil. It sure was a thrill with George Tsiknas in Calif. bickering, almost out of control, more than thirty-nine years of !\led. Det. 60th In£. 3rd Bn. to read all the news about He had hoped to come to the over the extended membership Government service. We have WALLACE HAWKINS everyone once again. I am reunion in Hyannis, but is not controversy, my wife, Patty, all succeeded and trust all of :318 S. 13th Ave. retired after working at well. He had hoped to come and I enjoyed ourselves our friends have done likewise! Hattiesburg, Ms. 39401 General Electric for 26 years. If back to Hyannis in '82. I met thoroughly at the Cape Cod No year begins at a moderate Enclosed you will find there is anyone from my outfit George's family while in Reunion and look forward to pace and neither does one end membership dues for 3 years around Louisville, they may Hyannis and had a wonderful another such great weekend at with a temperate trot. Can you plus a donation for the Marker drop by anytime. Keep up the imagine a year so filled that time. Fayetteville, North Carolina good work you are doing. Fund. Would like to see as many and Fort Bragg next June, God you've not had the pleasure of a as possible of the 3rd Bn. Med. 47th Inr. E &I Co. and circumstances willing. holiday. No, we've none to Det. 60th at Ft. Bragg. Keep up Hq. Btry. 84th FA report on this year. JOHN P. HYNES As hopes our new Association JOHN BOISKY the good work, Dan. God bless Lot 46 15th St. president, John J. Clouser, in Ron finished his six months you and yours. 5003 Kendrick St. 'apprenticeship' at the Bayer Sarasota City Mobile Home Pk. his message may those of our Panama City, Fl. 32401 Sarasota, Fl. 33478 fellow Association members Chemical Corporation in Co. M, 60th In£. Enclosed find donation for the First I hope you are well and I who are truly dedicated to the Leverkusen in early February, WILLIAM A. ZIMMERMAN Marker fund also dues for am sending my dues. I came to Association purposes rise above spun through Wiesbaden on his 3331 Orlando Ave. membership in the association. Florida to take it easy and I am. any personal feelings and way to holiday in Sri Baltimore, Md. 21234 Looking forward to Vort Bragg Help out at Candlelight Dining emotions in order to continue Lanka(Ceylon) and then flew Enclosed is check for dues and seeing some friends and tor Senior Citizens here in the spirit and the memory of the home to· his graduation. Inge and a donation to the Marker making new ones. We thank you Sarasota. Had a visitor from Ninth accordingly. We submit fullfilled the year with brid~ fund. Sorry we missed the and your staff for the fine work Pa. who was in I Co. 47th with anew that Clouser's idea earlier tournaments, with sojurns with llyannis reunion but we had a and please continue. Any ad­ me before I went to OCS and this year. to have the various female friends to the new granddaughter in July and dresses of former 84th FA Bn. various crystal, china and came back to E Co., a Steve Association consist of two co­ would be greatly appreciated. couldn't miss the happy .event. existing groups, the older and porcelain factories in western Best Wishes and a good year to Weber. He left for Air Force in Texas from I Co. the time I left the newer, may be a good Bavaria, fulfilling her Mother's all. fioth Inf. Co. A whims and tending her many, for OCS. He and a Tom Coughlin beginning toward resolving the KENNETH FINCH many plants and flowers. While who went to OCS with me and controversy, rather than to 4308 Mesa Dr. Scotty trundled about the Conti­ 9th QM who hails from Sioux Falls, S.D. allow the Association to just Bakersfield, Ca. 93306 nent, the Middle East and the ANGELO (ANDY) SINARE and he also was from I Co. keep pass out of existence in a couple Enclosed is a check for 3 year United Kingdom, including a 716 E. 162 St. in touch with me. Also Steve decades sooner than otherwise. membership in the association. detour to Iceland, savouring the Cleveland, Ohio. 44110 Weber and his wife and I visited as now it stands. I heard from a friend of mine dishes of those lands for the last Enclosed is my check for dues places I never heard of and that there is a Go Devil ::9th Inr. and Co. B Med Det time. renewal. Will try and make the probably wouldn't have seen if Hegiment patch. Does anyone Inge's mother is donig well reunion at Ft. Bragg. I sure they hadn't come from Pa. to MILO J. OLSON know where I might get a hold for her eighty-two years. The miss the men from the QM. see me. They stayed at my 2114 Burrows of 2of them? I hope to run in to a eyesight has failed, the walk Although I do send and receive mobile home as I have room as Grand PraiI'e, Tex. 75052 lot of myoId buddies at the big has become a bit unsteady but Christmas cards from quite a it is quite big. There is Thank you for your letter and reunion in Ft. Bragg. I have a the will remains with the spirit. few. I never see any news from something inside of you that for sending me the Octofoil. small motor home and hope to This might be an adequate the (~M. There aren't any makes you feel real good when Enclosed find membership find a good camp ground near descriprion of Scotty's Mom in members from the QM in the you see someone from the 9th. dues. Until recently I was not Fayetteville. I was reading my Waupaca, Wisconsin. We're Cleveland area. I belong to the When we left the states I was aware that the 9th Div. had an December Headers Digest very proud of the two spunky VFW Post 2926 and the captured at EI Guettar Pass association or newspaper. Since about the hero we nearly forgot, individualists. American Legion Post 434 in Runisia March 28, 1943 I don't my discharge in 1945 I have lost Matt Urban. Chaplain Timothy We miss you all! We do not Brocton, N.Y. Have a Merry hear or see any of the fellows all contact with the comrades I Andryziak was a friend of his write enough. We do have Xmas and many more. who were with me as P.O.W.'s served with in England, Africa, and I often wonder what ever enought to write about. We just in Germany. God bless and Sicily, France and Belgium. I happened to him. I still seem to miss you guys when we :mth Inr. K Co. keep you well, Dan. There is a was with the Med. Det. and remember him to this day, he sit down of an evening and chat TED WISNIEWSKI Spencer Norwood here at the maybe you remember me doing was one fine chaplain to all and that is frequent. Thus none :{66 Ashburton Ave. park who was with Hqs. and G a lot of barber work. During my faiths. I will close for now and of you ar forgotten or ever will Yonkers, N.Y. 10701: Co. 47th. service my home address was wish you all the best. be. Just remember we love you Dear Dan: Minnesota, but now we live in <.'0. M, 60th In£. Texas. Four years ago I had a all. Our weather remains Just a few lines to let all my JOHN ELICHKO Co. H 15th Engrs. typical for Wiesbaden - un­ old buddies from Co. K 39th heart attack and stroke which CHARLES HOFFMAN 10005 Bay Pines Blvd. affected my speech a little. My decided. Snow but no snow, rain know that I'm still around. I am St. Petersburg, FL 33708 9143 81st St. but but no rain. We'll ,defer our working for the U.S. Postal wife and I plan to attend the Woodhaven, N.Y. 11421 return home until later in the Service and have all hopes of reunion at Fort Bragg. I will I want to thank you for Enclosed are my dues for really enjoy hearing from my year, then into Florida. We've making the '82 reunion at Ft. another year. I enjoy the printing my story on not set itinerary. MANENT Bragg this June. Please keep friends in the 9th. So if anyone "Schevenhutte" again. Here Octofoil. If possible, I would like remembers me please write. residence - HER E ! We me posted on the coming to have it sent down here for the are a few thoughts I've been promise to stay in touch. We reunion regarding time and meaning to convey to all the next six months. I'm a winter ('annon Co. 47th will visit those which cir­ transportation schedules by air visitor down here. My northern guys who were in the line cumtances permit. God bless and rail so I will know how to JOHN J .C. NEILL companies of the 9th. Whenever address is 1504 Valley Rd., Rah­ ;n06 Wyatt St. you, all - we miss your com­ plan my vacation. way, N.J. 07065. Have heard I was working with them or pany. Fayetteville, N.C. 28304 right behind them I was from a few of the old Co. M Just a note to tell you who I To those of you are rare and 17th Inr. B. Co. boys, and hope to see them all at frightened by the incoming hard to find, our friends! GEORGE BERDAY am. I was in Co. A 47th and then artillery, mortar, planes, small Ft. Bragg. Thanks fur when Cannon company was 100 N.E.· 6th Ave. Lot 286 everything, Dan. Merry arms fire and many other Homestead, Fl. 33030 formed I was sent over there as things, but I never gave it a Co. K, 47th Inf. Christmas and Happy New Sending in dues for the next Year. company clerk and stayed until thought that the enemy would MRS. HELEN (LAGATTUTA) year and hope the next one is I was ZI'd. from the Belgian break through our guys up HOLMES border. I was happy to read all better for me. I've spent the last ~7th In£. front. I'm sure all the support :{52 D. Hackensack St. 7 months in the Air Base Hosp. about the association in the units felt the same way. Wood Ridge, N.J. 07075 STANLEY POLLINGER Fayetteville paper. I use to live down here. I've got radiation 2317 W. Washington Dear Dan: I enjoy reading the in Wildwood, N.J. as a postal burn in the groin. I look like a Allentown, Pa. 18104 Octofoil. Enclosed is a check for letter carrier and retired back A.T. Co. 47th scarecrow! Down to 105 lbs. Enclosed is dues for three ELMER BERTA the Marker Fund and auxiliary Guess it will stop me from going here in Ft. Bragg where I dues. Occasionally see George years. I receive the Octofoil and served. I will be looking for you 5538 Ponderosa to Bragg in June. I sure hate to enjoy it very much. Best wishes Utica, Mi. 48087 Bastedo and Larry McCabe and miss this one! Wishing you and at the reunion in June. I live talk over old times of the 9th. to you and your family for the Enclosed is dues for three yours the best for Xmas and the coming year. near the Bordeaux so I'll see ]\Iy best to you and Marie. you then. years plus a donation for the New Year. Marker fund. Have a Merry 82 Reunion June 24, 25, 26th WIle••a. tile laat u... you wrote a letter to .... Christmas and a Happy New Mao canc.....' Year. JODI·CLOUSE! THE OCTOFOll aT" BOXSOA CRYSTAL RIVER. ft.··,ztIt r\ational Secretarv 9th Div. -l12 Gregory Ave. ~ Weehawken, N.J. 07087 I read your notice of the 9th Div. reunion in the Louisville Ky., Courier-Journal. I have an 47th Inf. Co. H. F Co, 60th Inf. item that I would like to pass (Mother of Roy D. Code) CLIFFORD M. PAINTER along to you, for any action you THE 0 C T 0 F 0 I l Publication No. 402820 ALICE M. CODE 240 Hawthorne Rd. may want to take. 412 Greg9ry Ave Weehawken. N. J. 07081. Box 431 Washington, Pa. 15301 I was in the 79th. Div. 315th. '-ond.a_,..... peid.'U"ionCity.'-I.J.4u"'O#i'~.O'0c'0ber'.'M1. Meeker, Oklahoma 74855 l{egt. and as you will recall the I don't know if the enclosed 9th. was on our left flank during I am the mother of a 9th Div. 'article' is the kind you think the drive to Cherbourg late June veteran, Capt. Roy D. Code, Co. appropriate for the Odofoil or 1944. Your 39th. Regt. was to our H, 47th Inf. My husband, not. Thought I would send it left flank during most of this deceased, was a WW I veteran, along and you can use your own 60th Inf. L Co. Hq. 47th Inr. time. Last year I had the EDWIN BREWER llANDALL H. BRYANT so I am quite familiar with each judgement. My wife, daughter pleasure of taking a group from war. I wish to send a donation to and I made the trip to Germany 222 Park Ave. Apt. 5 15640 SW 85th Ave. our unit back to Normandy, and Maryville, Mo. 64468 Miami, Fl. 33157 the Marker Fund in my son's in October. It was quite an this was a thrill that I will never name, to a soldier friend of his experience for me. Much had Don't want my Octofoil ad­ As I wrote several months ago iorget. While in St. Marie du dressed in red ink so here's a I wouldn't be able to make the who was with him when he was changed, but some things were l\lont we were hosted by the killed in France. They were quite recognizable. particularly check for dues and some for the Convention for my wife and I l\layor of this small village at Scholarship fund. Everything is were going to France to visit together from the invasion of the remaining bridge piers at . I am sending you a North Africa, Safi, Tunisia and l{emagen and Linz. going well with us, here in the Utah and Omaha Beach '."here copy of his letter to me last Midwest and my wife and I both the Cemetery is located. We had Sicily, trained in England for Certainly enjoyed the reunion December requesting any kind the invasion of France. 1st LT. at Hyannis and am looking feel great and we are very a nice but cold and rainy trip of souvenir or momento for the thankful for that. Come June, there last October. Thomas O. Fowler was killed forward to the 1982 reunion at museum at Utah Beach. He only 9 days after the invasion. Fayetteville. Sure would we'll be heading for Bragg, the This is to report on my visit would appreciate anything we good Lord willing, and hope and to send you some photos I His body was returned home to encourage everyone to make an may be able to send. Switzer, S.C. for burial from effort to attend the reunion and Ernie and Martha Long, Bob think will prove interesting to In St. Mere Eglise I found a Davis, John Lewis and wife, many of the members. One is of Laurent, France. After the war, renew old friendships and trade memorial marker dedicated to my son Roy returned home to memories. John Knightly. John Klooz, the exact spot at St. Marie du the 9th. 79th. and the 1st. Engr. Adolph and Peggy Wadalavage Mont where most of the 9th Odessa, Texas. Thomas' father Had a nice visit with Jim Etue Amph. Brigade. I also found two found my son's name among his (Clerk-F Co.) and Tom and others will be there. Best landed including the 47th. Regt. (,X-la'S that married and now regards to you and yours and To the rear is the museum things. He wrote us and then Saunders (3rd Plat. F Co.) in are living in Normandy, they came to see us. Thomas was an October. Also on the way home hope all are enjoying good organized and managed by the were wonderful guides. health. God Bless and a Merry people of that area. It is very only son and he wanted first­ from Toledo looked up Jimmie The address of the French hand information. They spent a Panzone. He lives in New Christmas and a Happy New interesting but to hear the l\Iayor: Year. lecture (in English) and to look week together as he wanted to Albany, Ohio. Some may Michel de Vallavielle know about his son's life during remember that he was a driver at the pictures one would hardly l\layor Saint-Marie-Du-Mont !lth MP. know that the 9th. was there. their togetherness. I seldom see for 'F' Co. He was Matt Urban's Manche, France my son as he works for oil well driver, also drove for Capt. JAKE NAILOH. The only picture is one of Gen. :H2 Brandy Lane Eddy looking at a map. The drilling companies and moves Alan Johnson and later for me Sincerely. 1 Mechanicsburg, Pa. 17055 Division patches are all there on around. He was in Iran for 3 2 when I commanded F Com­ GLYNN WELSH years but I am glad he is not pany. I hadn't seen him since I hope this finds you both in a board including ours. But we there now. I have every Octofoil March of 1945 and as you can 224 N. Court St. good health and about to enjoy a are completely left out of the since the beginning and I read imagine we had a great time Irvine, Ky. 40336 very Merry Christmas and a overall story. As we all each one and save them for him visiting. He was wounded on the happy New Year. I goofed 1st remember we landed to pass to read when he gets home. We bridge at Remagen while time and didn't include f<.... rank through a completely both enjoy them very much. hauling supplies before the Pat Morano sends Rada's address like I said I did. demoralized 90th Div. cut the Your association is a wonderful bridge collapsed. Jim has had this letter along with 13 Co. I will send it now along with best penninsula in a very short time one and a very active one. I love some health problems, but is news. wishes to all the M..P. 's and and captured Cherbourg. (I to read and have read war doing well. I'm sure he would members of the 9th Div. recognized nothing in Cher­ books of history World War 1, enjoy hearing from other 'F' Co 47th Inf. Association. Frank A. Rada, bourg it has grown so much.) 1917-1918, "Doughboys," World men. His address is: 10716 ~EIL CONGER Northgate Apts. Apt No.1, 1220 One very bad gripe I have is War II "Invasion" by Charles Johnstown Road, New Albany, 110 S. Keel Ihdge Rd. N. Hemlock Rd. Hemlock. 1'\li that there are very beautiful Christian Wertendbaker, Ernie Ohio 43054. Hermitage, Pa. 16148 -l8626. The good Lord willing I memorials to the 4th. 90th, and Pyle "Comes Ashore and other I am enclosing a small con­ Hi Pat: Thought I had better will see you all at Ft. Bragg in 79th Divisions and the 1st Stories," "Safi Adventure" tribution for the Marker Fund. answer you letter before you June. God Bless the 9th Special Engineer Brigade. I I<~dwin llandle. I am now Wish it could be more as I am head south with the ducks. Yes. Division. didn't even remember that the reading "Eight Stars to very proud of my association I belong to the 9th Division 79th was there until I looked it Victory" Mittelman. Among my with the 9th Division and the association and also have the 60th Int". D Co. up in the story of the landing. cards is a Christmas card from fine men I served with in WWII. sun flower emblem on my cars .JAMES T. CANADA These memorials were erected the 9th Division which says Let me close with this and trunks. With this means of P.O. Box 434 by the units themselves. You "Greetings from overseas." thought: I hope that next advertisement that I was in the Shannon, Ga. will see two of these memorials The officers and men of the 9th summer the membership will 9th I have met a lot of 9th Dear Dan: in the photos. What is wrong Division wish you a Merry see the wisdom of insuring the division people, the 39th Inf. and Here are my dues for 1982. with us? As far as I remember, Xmas and a victorious New perpetuation of the Association 36th F.A. but none from the they almost slipped my mind. I and according to the history. Year. How proud we were to by approving the change -l7th. Do you remember George am retired from my job but there were two divisions that receive that card. I an nearing necessary to open the mem­ Grieve, he was a cook and lived have a hobby that keeps me did most of the fighting-4th my 82nd birthday so I hope you bership to all who have worn the in New Castle, Pa.? We were on pretty busy for I can not sit and 9th. The 90th did better understand what I have been lled, White, and Blue Octofoil the advance detail when we around and do nothing. I had a after they relieved most of their trying to say. In case I am too honorably, regardless of the were shipped out of Newport letter from an old buddy, Paul commanders from the Division late for the Marker fund please period of service. News, and advanced on to N.C. Pelish, but have not had time to down to Bn., most of them were use it for the Scholarship fund. Thanks again to you and your and Sharon, Pa. (we went over sit down and write him but I will taken from the 9th, at our ex­ Best Wishes. lovely wife for all your efforts in the hill for 2 days) The last time soon. I had a buddy come by and pense. I'm certainly in favor of behalf of the Association, Best I saw George he was a foremCln visit with me last summer but a memorial at Ft. Bragg which in the pottery about 5 years ago. cannot remember his name. 1 60th Iof. Co. B Regards. is scheduled to be dedicated Pat, you didn't see a photo of me THOMAS LORELLO enjoy reading the Octofoil very next July but let's do something in the 47th regiment book much and read everything in it. about Utah Beach. 753 Rockaway Ave. ('0. D, 60th Inf. because they had us on detail at Valley Stream, N.Y. 11581 JOHN E. THORNTON I will close for now and hope you Looking back on all 8 cam­ the recruit recep. center for ;) Just a few lines hoping "Mail PO Box 3782 Mdse. Mart Sta. will keep up the good work. paigns of the 9th, there are months. My wife, Betty, and I Call" can help me locate some rhirae:o, Ill. 60654 three highpoints : EI Guettar, are planning on the 1982 reunion war time buddies. I was a S-Sgt. Well here it is that time again 47th Inf. Co. A Utah Beach and Huertgen in Fort Bragg and with the help DENNIS C. KELLEY in Co. B, 60th Inf. 3rd Platoon and it sure goes by too fast. I do Forest. Looking back at the of the Lord, we'll make it. I'll 1618 6th St. S. W. and was known as Brooklyn. I hope this card finds you and Beach from the defenders dose for now and hope you can l{oanoke, Va. 24016 served in 1944 in Normandy, yours in good health and that viewpoint, I don't see how any read this. I'm a top shelf artist Many thanks for your reply thru Belgium and past Elsen­ things are going along good for of us got ashore. The German and sign man but a lousy writer. and the necessary form for born, Germany. I would like to everyone. I am doing O.K. for strongpoints are awesome even Keep the Lord in your thoughts becoming a member in the locate the following people or an "Ole Goat" of 73. Enclosed is now. and stay healthy. association. Please find en­ anyone from my unit, VitoTosto, my check for dues and a Enclosed are three photos of closed check for dues also any St. Lorient Cemetery at Omaha Chicago, Ill. and Grady donation to the Marker and ::4th F.A. information and addresses on Scholarship fund. If I am too Beach. It is the most beautiful Holman Jr. of Macon, Ga. who CARL BUNYAK former members of Co. A would late for the Marker fund do of the four other Atperican was C.O. of Co. B. If anyone can ;)705 Livernois Ave. Apt. No.6 be greatly appreciated. please add it to the Scholarship cemeteries I've seen and help me locate these fellows or Detroit, Mi. 48210 (Editors note: Any Co. A fund. Been on the busy side this overlooks the landing site. I knows of their whereabouts I'm writing to let you know of fellows interested can contact please contact me at the above past year. Working at the Mdse don't know how many 9th my change of address for the Dennis Kelley. ) Division soldiers are buried address or call 516-561-8134. For Mart for vacations and at the Octofoil. I wish you and yours many years I have been in close Opera house when needed on 17th !\led. there for I only looked at the and the men of the 9th a Merry data of the 47th. There are 114, contact with George Cyphers of the elevators, along with being Christmas and a Happy 1'lew MRS. EDITH JAFFE 47th graves, including the one of Cleveland, Ohio and hope to executor for an old lady friend, Year. 138-18 78th Ave. arrange a great reunion in Ft. getting rid of her things. Sure Flushing, N.Y. 11367 Lt. Col. Jim Johnston, our Bragg with as many guys of Co. hope the coming year will ranking officer there. Photo Co. F, 60th Inf. I am sending a check for B as possible. Here's to "CO. B" improve in all departments, enclosec.i HOBERT WALDVOGEL membership and for the Marker Continued on Page 7 at Ft. Bragg in 1982. R.S. V.P especially the unemployment 2026 S. Chapin St. fund in Harold's name. I enjoy by April 1982. situation, sure is in bad shape. If you ar~ planaia, 011 mevmC South Bend, Ind. 46613 reading the Octofoil. Harold Glad that the last reunion was a pJ~IU IIOlj'y the Iftretary eI Enclosed is our donation for loved the 9th and it was a very success and everyone had a important part of his life. )'CMIJ' new a....en. It "'itt save good time. Must sign off for the Memorial Marker fund. aM keep y. on Ua~ 82 Reunion Hope to make the reunion in posta,. now, so keep well and have a OdeIeII ID..... I... Fort Bragg in 1982. Regards to good holiday season and this June 24, 25, 26th all. goes for all the 9th members THE D-EADLINE FOR THE NEXT ISSUE WIl.L BE Feb. 20th. and families.