SALUTE TO VETERANS

Sunday, November 11, 2018 l Section E 2 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

ONO THE C VER About this section Leo Brown, 93, resides The Lima News feels strongly serving our country. at The Wyngate, Lima. that the service of veterans Stories from veterans, told in He joined the Marines living in this area should be their own words, are published Corps, 1001st Platoon, recognized. here along with the photos that after graduation from Spencerville This is why this Salute to they shared. High School and Veterans section was created For this year’s publication, turning 18. He served and it continues yet today. The Lima News asked veterans from October 1943 This special section honors to share their thoughts on to January 1946. the many men and women who patriotism and what that means He served on the have served our country in to them. USS Colorado in the Pacific, namely the the past or who are currently Visit limaohio.com for details. Philippines and New Caledonia. His job was to feed the ammo Index to the gunners. He received a shrapnel injury in the neck World War I 16 Proud to serve in when a kamikaze Cold War hit the ship and was 3 Soldier served in Army awarded a Purple and Navy Heart. He recovered at Family New Caledonia fleet World War II 16 Family continues hospital and Pearl Harbor, then returned 5 A thank you to my dad service today to active duty. 6 Memories of World 17 Family memory gardens War II – love displayed 6 Lima serviceman 17 A tribute from one proud inspires a documentary family 7 All veterans are heroes Craig J. Orosz | The Lima News 18 The story about the 8 Flying America to behind the scenes hero victory 19 A family’s service 8 Serving at Pearl Harbor during 19 Stars and stripes WWII forever 9 Remembering the 20 An entire family of smell of war soldiers 10 There were heroes at 21 Patriotism — home, too 100-plus years of 10 Service made freedom military service even more valuable 21 Brothers wanted 11 Thank you dad for your to do their duty service 22 Thank you to my uncles World War II & Korean 23 Thank you for your War patiotism 12 ‘There’s no place LAND OF THE FREE, like home’ Career 25 Military experience home of the brave. Korean War leads to commitment 12 Strange sights while 26 Becoming part of a serving in Japan This Veterans Day, we hold the courageous men and women who served this country band of brothers in our hearts and offer our deepest gratitude. Thank you to those who have defended Vietnam War Thank you our freedoms. And thank you to the families who have trusted us to serve them. 14 Lima Senior grad joined 27 Thank you, veterans the Navy Siferd-Orians Funeral Home 27 Let Memorial Hall stand 506 N. Cable Rd., Lima, OH Cold War proud 419-224-2010 15 Artillery man to 27 Since I met you, I am

OH-70085205T mess hall not afraid OH-70085205T www.siferd-oriansfuneralhome.com LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 3

World war I Soldier served in Army and Navy From William J. Brown

When William Brown met his future father-in-law, Emil F. Rezek, in 1959 he was questioned about many things for after all he was quite serious about his lovely daughter Mary Ann. After a few weeks they got to know each other and since Bill was currently an offi- cer in the Air Force and stationed at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Emil shared with Bill his unusual World War I Experience. On April 7, 1917, the United States declared war on Germany and entered a war that had been ongoing since 1914. The Allied forces had by this time been at A few photos from the book. war for four years and the French William Brown has written a book which Army was at the point of collaps- includes his father-in-law’s story. ing against the German Kaiser. The United States under Presi- Europe. He was put to work imme- WEBB INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. dent Woodrow Wilson was very diately to construct barracks for reluctant to enter the war and was the thousands of doughboys that slow in mounting up a sufficient would arrive over the next several fighting force. At this time Emil F. months. Emil was soon trained as Rezek had just turned 18 and with a fireman on the Army Baldwin patriotic enthusiasm he joined the steam locomotive to move vital Navy to see the world. However supplies and munitions to the front after a few months stationed in lines. the Navy near Philadelphia, he However fate would soon catch became very bored and wanted up with him as Navy personnel to get out. Of course he knew the started to arrive in spring 1918. Navy had no intention of letting a This was a special contingent new recruit out so he became very of the Navy to counter the large frustrated. caliber long-range gun threat One day while in Baltimore, he posed by the German Army. passed the Army Recruiting Office The Germans had started to and since the draft had not yet shell Paris with long range guns been implemented, they were des- that could reach up to 81 miles, perate for volunteers. So Emil put however with very poor accuracy. on civilian clothes and walked into However even with poor accuracy, the Army Recruiting Office and if the Germans were to succeed joined up, of course without telling in shelling ports in France and the Navy. In August 1917 he sailed Belgium they would have a on the HS Saxonia on a perilous dramatic effect on the delivery voyage to St. Nazaire, France, as of Allied troops and supplies. To part of the Army 19th Engineers. counter this threat, the Navy was They were the initial American

Expeditionary Force to arrive in See Soldier | 4 OH-70084394T 4 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

World war I Soldier

From page 3 authorized by Congress to produce five large railroad guns capable of reaching targets up to 28 miles with good accuracy. The crash program started in November 1917 produced five battleship type railroad mounted guns each with a 14-car train. The guns and train cars started to arrive at St. Nazaire, France in spring 1918 along with supporting Navy personnel. Since Emil left the Navy in early 1917, the Navy MPs had been looking for him since he was listed as Absent Without Leave and if he were to be apprehended he could face a prison term. The MPs somehow found him in St. Nazaire and he was about to be charged when his Army commanding officer spoke up for him that he was serving the Army as a model soldier and was very dedicated A few photos from the book. and proficient as a fireman on the Baldwin locomotive. Since the for a job with the Baltimore and Navy needed experienced steam Ohio railroad. He was hired on engine firemen to transport the July 7, 1919, and assigned to the railroad guns to the front lines, Toledo Division with his station they took Emil who was indeed in Lima. He lived as a boarder serving the Navy as well, and at the Lawrence Flick house at assigned him to one of the five 210 W. Wayne St., Lima, for $27 trains. Emil was to spend the next per month. In October 1930 he two months near the front lines married Irene Bergman in St. under fire from German artillery Marys and resided there the and aircraft bombing. rest of his live while working as The five 14-inch railroad a fireman and engineer for the guns became very effective B&O out of the Lima station. He in interrupting German had a son Robert and daughter troop concentrations, supply Mary Ann who incidentally both warehousing and railroad yards delivered papers in St. Marys for to the point within two months The Lima News. of deployment, the war came to Emil’s story is told by his son-in-law, William J. Brown of an end with the armistice signed A few photos from the book. on Nov. 11, 1918. Emil’s gun fired Huron, in a book he authored in the last round at 10:59 a.m. Nov. June 2017 titled, “A World War 11, just one minute to the 11 a.m. I Soldier And His Camera.” The on military life in World War II years at Wright Air Research & armistice. The Navy returned book not only contains Emil’s titled, “My Son, My Son, Where Development Command followed Emil to the Army and he returned story but also many pictures Are You?” and a third book this by 33 years at the NASA Glenn to the USA in late spring 1919. that Emil took with his Kodak year titled, “The Atom Plane And (Lewis) Research Center. He now Since Emil had been trained as Vest Pocket camera showing The Young Lieutenant.” Brown resides with his wife Mary Ann a fireman on a Baldwin steam the life of a private in the Army is a graduate of the University of of 59 years in Huron. He has four locomotive and now had two during World War I. Brown has Buffalo, School of Engineering sons, 12 grandchildren and three years of experience, he applied also authored a second book and served in the USAF for five great-grandchildren. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 5

World war II A thank you to my dad From Terry L. Ballinger, of Lima The tribute includes a copy of his Honorable Discharge paper, history of his service, a German My father, Paul dress sword, a photo album Eugene Ballinger (May which includes photos 1923-October 2001), of my father in uniform, served in World War II a photo of him standing from Jan 13, 1943, to beside his truck while Oct 23, 1945, in the U.S. holding his gun, foreign Army as Private First coins and bills, plus other Class Company B 56th B allinger war related photos. Signal Battalion. He was a When asked if my dad driver and mechanic. His was frightened to serve in battles and campaigns include war, he said, “A young man of 19 Normandy, Northern France, feels invincible when joined with Ardennes, Rhineland, Central a huge group of brave and fit Europe. His decorations and solders who are fighting together citations included European- as one for freedom. A young African-Middle Eastern Theater man’s blood runs hot and strong.” Ribbon with five Bronze Stars My dad, as well as my mother, and Good Contact Medal. were both lifetime members of A few years ago I created a the Lima VFW Post 1275. My Terry L. Ballinger purchased a brick at the flag monument in Lima. military tribute section in my dad was local Commander as basement to honor his service. well as District 2 Commander in designed Veterans Freedom Flag served in the past and present 1965. Monument located on Buckeye is to exercise your privilege to In June 2016 I purchased a Road, in Lima. It is the largest vote and to strongly encourage Veterans Freedom Flag Brick known permanent flag monument others to vote for candidates to be placed on the uniquely in the United States. The granite who represent our freedom and bricks are Red for hardiness democracy and Constitution and valor, White for purity values. and innocence, and Blue for I am grateful for his sacrifice vigilance and perseverance and and service to the land of the free justice. The best way to honor and home of the brave. God bless the flag and to honor those who America! A LOVING TRIBUTE ALL GRANITE · Monuments · Markers · Mausoleums · Bronze Memorials WOODLAWN MONUMENT WORKS Where Quality, Price & Service are Unequaled Anywhere since 1920 The back of this photo reads, “Dear Mom, DONNA AND ANDY MILLER this is a picture of me and my truck and T erry L. Ballinger has made a military 806 S. Woodlawn, Lima • 419-224-7956 corner in his home to honor his father. gun. Gene.” OH-70085207T 6 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

World war II Memories of World War II From Robert “Bob” Bohyer, of Lima homa, and I became to limp back to Eng- have spoken to mostly high school a tail gunner on a land by ourselves kids about World War II. Some of B-17 bomber. and on the lookout these places were in Lima Baptist I believe this will be my last Ten of us were for German fighter Temple School, Fort Wayne, Otta- “hurrah” as I have written several assigned to a B-17 planes that just wa and the largest was in Peoria, letters for Vets Day so it get sort of named 5 Grand. So loved to take down Illinois (class of about 500). I repetitious. named because it crippled planes. A don’t do this anymore mainly You ask about the idea of was the 5,000 B-17 B ohyer, today B ohyer, 1945 large piece of flak because of my age. patriotism. I was always patriotic built by Boeing went through the I am the only survivor of our growing up — but my concept of Plant. All the employees began tail about 1 foot above my head. 10-man crew since Tony (ball tur- this idea became stronger after signing their names all over the We did lose six of our buddies ret man) passed away about six I entered the service. I feel that plane. Even movie stars signed it. when their plane was shot down. months ago. We were very close. people who don’t have much patri- This was to honor our co-pilot’s They lived in our tent — ages The irony of this tale is that otism should think about relocated father who worked on the assembly were 18 to 21 years old. I fought a war, attained rank of instead of protesting. line at Boeing. Pictures of 5 Grand Transferred to Foggia, Italy, and staff sergeant, awarded the Air I was born in South Lima, and our crew were in the national flew another 25 missions with the Medal with three oak leaf clusters, graduated from South High School news and we flew it to several U.S. 483rd Bombardment Group there. seven battle stars after flying 35 in 1942. Drafted into the Army cities showing off the plane. After We got shot up but never shot missions — but I was still not old shortly after. Found out later that this we flew this bird to New- down. Sometime we could count enough to vote. Ha! the Air Force was asking for vol- foundland and on to Nutts Corner, up to 80 holes in our plane. The cold stat for bombers in unteers and I saw a chance to stay Ireland. I thank the Lord for keeping me World War II is that the average out of the infantry. And as a young Assigned to the 486th Bombard- safe. I came home and married bombing suffered 1.5 percent kid I liked excitement. And I sure ment Group near Sudbury, Eng- a beautiful redhead and we have losses. This doesn’t sound so bad got i! land, flowing 10 missions with three wonderful children. Sadly until one runs the numbers. 1.5 After some more tests — three them. My third mission turned to say my wife died very suddenly percent per run means that in 66 of us were accepted in the 8th bad — took a direct hit over in 2002. I live with my 3 pound missions, the entire Air Force Air Force. We found out later that Mannheim, Germany. Two engine teacup Yorkie in beautiful Eagles would be shot down. Every two the Air Force was losing so many shot out with one fire. Dropped Point West. The people here are months, the entire force had to gunners and this is why we were about 15,000 feet and got ready very friendly and Ginny has many be replaced. The men knew this accepted. Anyway we were sent to to be bail out. Thank God the dog friends. but they still climbed into those gunnery school in Ardmore, Okla- pilot got the fire out and we had I might add that over the years I planes.

Lima serviceman inspires a documentary From Robert Bowerman, of Lima cisco in 1943. 17:45 hours, all hell broke fantail. Forward gunners downed Samuel was attached loose for the ship. two of the other planes. The fourth to the U.S.S. Mullany A squadron of Japanese flew away damaged. Samuel Alexander Bowerman (DD528) a destroyer. He Kamikaze planes sighted There was little water pres- Coxswain, United States Navy served with credit in sev- the Mullany. Four of them sure to fight the fire. At 18:29 Citation: enteen major operations. started a strafing attack. hours, Captain Momm ordered Samuel A. Bowerman 23, Son of The Mullany fought the The first plane, a Nakajima “ABANDON SHIP.” The Mullany Mr. and Mrs. Samuel W. Bower- Japanese from the Aleutian B owerman Ki-43 fighter was hit by anti- survived, but 21 of the crew were man, of Lima, Ohio entered the Islands of Alaska in August aircraft fire from the Mulla- killed, 9 were missing. and 36 service on October 28, 1942. He of 1943 to Okinawa in April of ny. In flames it crashed into the aft wounded. Samuel’s parents got trained as a gunner at Great Lakes 1945. deck housing. Depth charges began the news in the following words of Naval Training Station in Illinois. On April 6, 1945, the Mullany exploding and the ship was on He went overseas from San Fran- was in action off Okinawa. At fire from the quarter deck to the See inspires | 7 LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 7

World war II All veterans are heroes From Douglas Bruns It was raining like hell camp, they were put around matters worse he contracted diph- and Bruns was told not to a 125 or so per cattle car … theria and when he was liberated expect much resistance, if they would have to stand for by the advancing Russian Army Editor’s note: Teri Hirschfeld any. The crossing went as four hours and then they got he weighed 80 pounds. He was writes, I am submitting a story planned and the men settled to lie down for two. I’ll leave taken to a field hospital where that a late friend of mine, Douglas in for the night. About mid- it to your imagination what he was nursed back to where he Bruns, wrote about his late father, night the Americans were the procedure was when one could travel and was taken to Ber- William Bruns, who was a U.S. attacked by a full division of Bruns had to relieve himself. On lin where he joined a group of sol- Army officer and POW in World Nazi Tiger tanks. When cold the trip North, the train was diers and they made their way to War II. Douglas, a World War hard steel meets human flesh, the bombed by an American bomber, London. Then they boarded the II history buff, passed away last steel wins every time. The Ameri- it had no idea what the contents of Queen Mary and sailed the Atlan- January and entrusted this story can lines quickly collapsed and the the train was. tic; on the passage he won $5,600 to me. order from across the river came to During World War II, bombing playing poker that paid for more William U. Bruns (1917-1985) surrender. Lt. Bruns Sergeant was from 40,000 feet was a hit and than half the cost of the house he William Urban Bruns was a to his left leaning against a tree miss proposition, mostly miss, but and his new wife were to build in young man, really not much more but his head was gone. PFC. Bates when a United States Army Air St. Marys. than a boy, but he was a commis- was about 20 feet in front of Bruns Corps one-ton blockbuster bomb As I had wondered what his sioned officer in the United States with his legs severed and scream- hits within 50 yards of a target thoughts were that night in the Army in World War II. One early ing for his mother, he quickly died. there was hell to pay! Luckily for mud and blood in France, I also October evening in 1944, in North- Scant minutes later Lt. Bruns Bruns he was in one of the rear wonder what went through his ern France the Allied Army was was kneeling in the mud and blood cars for the bomb went off near the mind when he first saw the Statue on one side of the Mosselle River with hands behind his head with a engine and the carnage can’t prop- of Liberty. He was met at the and the Germans on the other. Lt. German officer standing over him erly be put in words. His fellow dock by his new wife, Rosemary, Bruns was ordered to take a group shoving a pistol in his face and comrades-at-arms toward the front, and brother Herb. across the river that evening, set shouting at him in a language he shall we say their luck ran out. He lived and raised his family up a position and in the morning did not understand. I wonder what Bruns spent the brutal winter of in St. Marys never talking about they would be relieved and sent was going through his mind. The 1944-‘45 in a German POW camp his experiences much unless to the rear for some well deserved POWs were put on a train headed with little heat and less to eat, asked. rest. for Northern Germany to a prison usually a half of a potato. To make All veterans are heroes!

was then seen on the after part of work hard, to help his shipmates ing. The courtyards are a part of Inspires the ship helping with the wounded. wherever possible, and his non- The Cemetery of the Pacific, also He threw off his life jacket, which chalant nature made him popular called Punch Bowl in Honolulu, From page 6 had caught fire, and was later seen on board ship. Often he spoke of Hawaii. The entrance marker to have jumped into the water you, of his fiancée Jean, and his says “In these gardens are record- Captain Albert Momm. without a life jacket. A long scour- brother who had been in the Army. ed the names of Americans who ____ ing of the sea afterward failed to He liked the farm, and had looked gave their lives in the service of USS Mullany (528) find a trace of him. He was not forward to going back again. their country and whose Earthly April 12, 1945 picked up by any of the rescue We are all proud of Samuel, and resting place is known only to My Dear Mr. and Mrs. Bower- ships which remained in the area his sacrifice and devotion to duty God.” man until the following morning. I feel will not be forgotten. Samuel’s story was hidden in a Your Son Samuel has been that your son died in the last mea- Very sincerely, family suitcase for over 60 years. officially classified as missing in sure of devotion to the Navy and to Albert O. Momm, Commander, Once discovered it became the action. At about 5:30 in the after- his country. U.S. Navy Commanding. inspiration for the documentary noon of April 6, 1945, he was at his Words cannot express the shock ____ released on May 29, 2012. It can battle station aiming a large anti- and sorrow of myself and the rest Samuel A. Bowerman’s name is be found on You Tube and iTunes aircraft gun, when an explosion of Samuel’s shipmates in the loss among 28,000 etched in marble and is titled “Dan Rather Remem- from an enemy hit occurred. He of so fine a man. His willingness to at the Courtyards of the Miss- bers Pearl Harbor.” 8 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

World war II Flying America to victory

From June Koenig, of Lima Spencerville, entered the military Advanced Flying School at Stock- in the Northern Solomon Islands, with World War II on the horizon ton Field, California, on June 18, Rabaul in the Bismark Archi- when he joined the Army on June 1943. He was commissioned on pelago, Truk, the Japanese “Pearl Editor’s note: George Koenig 20, 1941, as an airplane mechanic. June 22, 1943. Lieutenant Koenig Harbor,” Yap Palau and Wolaei died 30 years ago from mesothe- He was assigned to the 87th Bomb became a full-fledged pilot and was in the Mandated Islands, Biak, lioma. Information obtained from Squadron, 46th Bomb Group, 5th placed in active duty. Lt. Koenig Manokwari in Dutch New Guinea, military records, articles in the Air Support Command at Barks- then completed his first tour of Ceram and Balikpapan, the “Japa- Spencerville Herald and as told to dale Field, Louisiana, when Pearl duty as a B-24 Liberator pilot in nese Ploesti” in Netherlande East June Koenig, his wife of 36 years. Harbor was attacked on Dec. 7, the South and Southwest Pacific Indies and Japanese airdromes in He was a B-24 pilot; served in the 1941. He was promoted to corpo- area with the 13th Army Air the Central Phillipines. One of his South Pacific, received the Air ral on Feb. 1, 1942. After he lost Force’s famous “Long Rangers.” most important missions was the Medal with one oak leaf cluster; part of his right index finger in During this year-long tour, he mass bombing raid over the Japa- Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon an accident while working on an completed over 36 missions and nese oil refinery at Balikpapan in with five bronze service stars, two aircraft, George decided to attend had over 450 combat flying hours. Eastern Borneo, which he repeated overseas service bars. training to become a pilot. Some of the targets that Lt. Koenig George Arden Koenig, from George graduated from helped diminish were Bougainville, See Flying | 9

Serving at Pearl Harbor during WWII

From the Rev. Thomas E. Eisenman, ing, I was short and there- While there I made a friend, ammunition overboard and into of Lima fore the guide that in front Julius, who still is in touch. the Pacific Ocean. on the left hand side. Right He’s now 90 and I am 91. Any films they showed us during behind me were these tall He has been on oxygen and the war showed the Japanese as In a small town of Weston, men therefore when we I am still serving a church, rats with Japanese faces. Pennsylvania, were a few men in marched the man behind now serving as pastor for 69 Thank God for the GI Bill. I got high school wanted to join the US me enjoyed stepping on my years. married, had three sons and col- military service. So we traveled heels. He was much bigger Eisenman While at Pearl Harbor lege education. I’ve been a pastor to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on than I. I lived through it. I went to Waikiki Beach for 69 years and still serve a church April 7, 1945, and we joined. As From Sampson we were shipped where I fell asleep and got sun- in Kenton where I have been for 29 we stood up to be sworn in one to San Francisco on a train run by burned. Never did that again even years. recruiter said, “Look at that kid coal. We had a lot of coal dust on though the view was good as we I have been given the American with the fat cheeks.” Little did they us. We would have given $10 for a could see Diamond Head. Theater Ribbon, the Pacific The- know I had the mumps. Even so I Hershey bar. I met a Marine in San When in Pearl Harbor I desired ater Ribbon and the Victory Medal. was in the Navy and sent to Samp- Francisco where he and I went to pepperoni so I wrote to my grand- By the way, while in Pearl Har- son, N.Y. town. He had a world, the Marine mother, who raised me since my bor my high school, because I When we arrived in Sampson sign tattooed on his right arm. He mother was deceased, to send wasn’t there upon graduation, sent Naval Base, the first thing they did said to me, get a tattoo. I got an me a stick of pepperoni. So from me a $25 bond in appreciation. was shave off all our hair. There I anchor of the US Navy tattoo on Weston, Pennsylvania, to Pearl They told us we were fighting stood bald headed white kid who my right arm. I wore long sleeve Harbor I received through the Post the war to end all wars. This was lost his wonderful head of hair. Not shirts for about 20 years. Office a stick of pepperoni. It was important to me. only that my name disappeared On a transport we were shipped the best pepperoni I ever had. All I say is “God bless America” and I became No. 248 79 23, a to Pearl Harbor. It wasn’t long As Petty Officer I typed out because it’s a great country. I’m number I shall never forget. No before we dropped those bombs on passes for the men and then we glad for what I did for my country, name calling, just your name. Japan. They quickly surrendered. mothballed the ships that were in and I appreciate what they did for While I was in Sampson train- We stayed there for 11 months. the harbor. We threw typewriters, me. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 9

World war II Remembering the smell of war

From Robert M. Lepo, of Lima other veterans’ personal stories tions about a film of the Nazi them to their first concentration that were in his personal library. concentration camps I came camp. They were outside almost Those readings revealed the hor- across in my cinematography every town, abandoned by the Editor’s note: Robert M. Lepo is rors of that war and the reason for class. His response, ’’It’s all true, Germans ahead of our advance, son of Joe Lepo. his silence. it happened, and I was there,’’ except for the surviving prisoners, As a youth, my father’s parents The subject was relived when I sent chills through my soul. His ghostlike human shells too weak photo albums would reflect his entered college during the height 13th Black Cat armored division to move. That smell continued to military service during World War of the Vietnam conflict and the had crossed the Rhine River into the end of the war until I returned II. That began my curiosity of Kent State killings. I witnessed Germany with Gen. Patton and to United States to smell some- his experiences but he was tight that incident as a freshman and rushed forward through towns thing different. When I asked lipped about the subject for good was forced home that spring. flattened by our air strength. what, he responded “the smell of reason. He encouraged me to read All those events led to ques- That’s when a pungent smell led freedom.”

have a place to eat. Lt. Koenig After his overseas tour of duty combat crews. He was released Flying argued successfully that all of the was complete, Lt. Koenig was from duty on Oct. 13, 1945 and crew had a right to have a good assigned to Victorville Army Air remained in the reserves until From page 8 meal and was able to get all of his Field in California to train new Sept. 28, 1957. crew fed at the officer’s mess. for a second time. For his efforts One mission included Lt. Koe- during this tour, Lt. Koenig was nig flying a heavily loaded bomb- presented the Air Medal and er from San Francisco, California holds the Battle Star and cam- to Honolulu, Hawaii. The payload paign ribbon for the Northern was so heavy that Lt. Koenig had Solomons. He received the Air to fly close to the water. At times, Medal for his work with experi- he was so close that he had to use mental radar missions to hunt his plane’s windshield wipers to down Japanese submarines. clear the ocean spray from the One time Lt. Koenig returned windshield of the plane. Due to after the start of a mission when his experience and skills as a pilot he felt the plane was unsafe for he arrived safely with his plane in flying. Facing a possible dishon- Hawaii. orable discharge for returning Once during a long mission, before the mission was accom- when he was resting, Lt. Koenig plished, it was determined by was awakened when he noticed a a ranking officer who took the difference in the sound of the pro- plane up, that the plane was pellers. His co-pilot was amazed indeed malfunctioning and would that George had awakened due to have been unsuccessful in com- the different sound. The co-pilot pleting the mission. By identify- was trying to adjust the plane’s ing the plane’s problems in a engines to conserve fuel. timely manner, Lt. Koenig had During his service, George saved the life of his flight crew. never lost any crew members or Another time when they planes. He always knew he would returned late in the evening from return from missions as long as a mission, they found the enlisted he had his New Testament and men’s mess had closed but the scarf with him. The scarf was officer’s mess was still open. They printed with maps of the various were told that the officers could islands and archipelagos they flew

eat, but the enlisted men did not over. OH-70085837T 10 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

World war II There were heroes at home, too From Guy Green, of Bluffton

Editor’s note: This is something that I put together a few years back about my wife’s Grandmother and Grandfather to tell their story to our family down the line. I tried to put together a time-line from letters and telegrams that we have. Helen, Lawrence, J.R. and Wayne have all long since passed, but I think the story shows what they went through and how terrible communications were back then. When you pay attention to dates, you can see that they received a letter stating that he might have died after they received a letter from him saying that he was Lawrence and Helen Yant waiting on a boat to come A telegram gave the news about J.R. Yant being missing in action. home! were unrecognized. Two I am 70 years old and a of those heroes were France and doing fine. Please send for a time and then dispersed as former Marine who served Lawrence Yant Sr. and his some smoking tobacco for pipe. designated by the soldier. in Vietnam, but this story is wife Helen of Beaverdam. No news until Jan. 31, 1945. February 1945, a letter written not about me. Their son Lawrence They received a telegram from to J.R. from Helen is returned During the dark days of Yant Jr., (known only as Western Union stating that J.R. with Missing 1-26-45 written on World War II, there were J.R. to most) went into the has been missing in action since the envelope. many heroes in many Yant Army on March 21,1944. Jan 8 in France. If other details Feb. 23, 1945, a letter from different countries and areas After training, he was on a are received, you will be notified. Dr. W.C. Lacock expressing his which were unknown to most ship in December 1944 heading to Feb. 2, 1945, a letter from the sorrow at the news about J.R. and until they became a household an unknown destination. On Dec. Adjutant General confirming that that he would try to make contact name that everyone recognized. 19 he received his first mail from J.R. was missing in action since with his company if he ever got in But during that time, there home. Dec. 21 they received a Jan. 8, 1945. It stated that his were many heroes at home that letter saying he was somewhere in personal effects would be kept See herOES | 11

Service made freedom even more valuable

From George C. Stewart, of Lima and Signal Corps. Officer training France for shipment to South charge. until discontinued — served little Pacific war zone and when headed Service has influenced my high less than three years. Took Queen for Panama Canal on troop ship regard for our standard of living Editor’s note: George C. Stewart Mary troop ship to Scotland to word came of Japanese surren- and how blessed we are to be is now 95 years old. He has three England, more training, then land- der and were instead ordered to U.S. citizens. Disgusted with how children. ing craft from England — waded Boston Harbor. Were then sent to things are politically now. If one Born June 14, 1923, in Lima. ashore in France. From across Army camp and was furloughed would experience the impact war Basic training in Camp Crowder, France through Germany until home for two months when my has on individuals, things would be Missouri. Served in Engineers their surrender. Sent to South points added up to enough for dis- run differently! LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 11

World war II Thank you Dad for your service From Peggy Hays, of Spencerville He was wounded and brances only. To disrespect and dishonor died in Anzio, Italy, in Feb- We are very grateful to our American flag and National ruary 1944. all the men and women Anthem is truly an insult to all My father Private First Class I was 1 month old when who have bravely served military and veterans. Think Marvin L. Paglow was one of the he was killed so my memo- and continue to serve to twice! many who served and gave their ry of him is through family protect our country and God bless the USA and thank lives for our freedom. pictures and their remem- our freedom. you, all military! Paglow

also said that J.R. knew most of Adjutant General: Still no word Supposed to leave tomorrow for the 15 soldiers who went to the on J.R. being reported as a POW. U.S. He was home in around two Heroes Philippines with him, but there May 22, 1945, Western Union weeks. From page 10 weren’t many of them left. telegram notifying them that J.R. From the time that they April 6, 1945, a letter from had been liberated! received the telegram in January that area. (Dr. Lacock was a major Chaplain M.F. McPhelin May 22 , 1945, a letter from saying that J.R. was Missing in in the medical corps serving at explained: They did not have J.R. saying that he is in France Action until May 22, they had Omaha Beach. He later returned a well defined line of battle. waiting on a boat to come home. no official word of what had to family practice in Beaverdam Small elements of our troops June 6, 1945, a letter from the happened to J.R. They had only and was close friends with the were constantly being cut off Red Cross saying that they were rumors and hope to go on. J.R. family.) without communication to responding to a letter dated Feb. had written 11 letters while a Lawrence and Helen were their headquarters. As the fight 22, which reached them after a prisoner, but they never received writing letters daily to anyone progressed, many small units long delay. “I regret to inform them. The anguish they went that they thought might help were overrun by larger enemy you that your son has not been through is unimaginable. You can them get more information on forces. “B” Company was cut off reported as a prisoner of war. only imagine the pain they felt what had happened to their son. and after four days of isolation, a This discouraging fact may not when their other son, Wayne, Feb. 24, 1945, a letter from patrol managed to filter through mean that he is dead, but if you was sent to Korea a few years Dick Mikesell expressing his the enemy and report back that haven’t heard anything in two or later. sorrow at the news about J.R. “B” Co. was still intact. That was three months, then I am afraid J.R. returned home and went to He said he had just gotten the the last word of “B” Co. at that that you must recognize the fact work at Ohio Power in 1948 and Christmas card they had sent that time. Since then at least four men that he has joined the large band worked there until he retired. He week. have written their families that of men who died in defense of never talked about being a POW. March 26, 1945, a letter from they were Prisoners of War. All their country.” His oldest daughter never knew Verona Nissan from Ridgeville you can do at this time is wait for June 11, 1945 a letter from until her teacher told her in her Corners. Stated that her son word. J.R. saying he is still in France. sophomore year in high school. had run into some soldiers that April 15, 1945, A letter from knew J.R. They said that he had Dr. Lacock saying that he had gone with his company to try to tried to get more information but contact another company and did had no luck. He said the going is Don’t this winter! not come back. They said that tough but starting to look better. sh iver they were quite sure that he had April 26th, 1945, a letter from been taken prisoner. Chaplain Eugene Bell stated that Stay warm with FREE utilities! 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He did give the as the enemy had fully occupied DominionDominionTaking Building Building Apartments ApplicationsDominionDominion Building Building Apartments 108 East High Street Dominion 108Building East High Street Apartments 108108 East East High High Street Street TakingTaking Applications Applications Mon.-Fri. Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. p.m.DominionTaking Building Applications Mon.-Fri. Apartments 8-4 p.m. 419-227-6802 108 East High Street Taking Applications Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. address of someone who was with the area where Co. “B” had been. 419-224-2224419-224-2224 108419-224-2224 East419-224-2224 High Street Taking Applications Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri.TDDTDD 800-750-0750 800-750-0750 8-4Taking ApplicationsTDDTDD 800-750-0750pm. 800-750-0750 Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. TDD 800-750-0750 419-224-2224 419-224-2224 OH-70011032L J.R. when they shipped out. He May 4, 1945, a letter from the OH-70087874T TDD 800-750-0750 TDD 800-750-0750 12 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

World War II & KoreAN WAR ‘There’s no place like home’

From Linda Wolf, Wapakoneta also one of the lon- was honorably dis- toward North Korea. The shells gest members of the charged in January were made to sink ships and con- Waynesfield Ameri- 1947, but unable to voys. Patriotism runs high in the can Legion where find a good job, he Christmas Day 1950 was Carter family of Waynesfield. he rides proudly in re-enlisted in the Pop’s last day in North Korea. Our father, J. Merle Carter, age the yearly Memorial Army in July. They left at the same time the 92, served his country in the U.S. Day Parade with He went back to engineers blew up the port and Army and set the example for his another 98-year-old Carter, then Carter, now Germany as part of destroyed everything. From there nine children. We are all proud Waynesfield vet- the 7751 Military he went to South Korea to patrol. to say he is a World War II and eran, Bob Walti. Police Custom Pla- He was there until July 1951, a Korean War Veteran. Three of Our father joined the army toon assigned to check all ships when he returned to the United his children, Loretta, Lana and in June 1945, near the end of with six German Custom officers States. After his discharge, Pop Brian, served in the Navy. One World War II. The Army took looking for contraband. went to Omaha, Nebraska. It son in law, Bill, and a daughter him to France and Germany. He As our father was coming was there that he proposed to in law, Louise, also served in the proudly tells how he rode on a home from Germany in 1950, and later married Helene. She Navy; another son in law, Steve, railroad boxcar in France at a the Korean War started. His ship had been sponsored by General served in the Army and currently replacement camp called a 40 was halfway across the Atlantic Allen Wood Rigsby to come to serves in the Ohio Army National and 8 which meant it was pulled Ocean, and they did an invol- America. Our mother was from Guard as a Command Sergeant by eight horses and held 40 men. untary enlistment so he had to Ukraine, but was taken to work Major; plus his grandson, Harri- Eventually he was in the 4th regroup and head to Hungnam, in Germany during the war. Mom son, is currently in the Navy. Pop Armored Division MP Platoon North Korea, as part of the 10th and Pop returned to Waynesfield is quite proud of his family. in Ragensburg, Germany, guard- Corp 88th Military Police Corps. where they raised their nine chil- Pop loves to tell his army sto- ing American GI prisoners from Pop and his MP group directed dren. ries to his children, grandchil- the fall 1945 until spring 1946. over 100,000 G.I.s and refugees Our parents’ story is one dren and great-grandchildren. Some of the troops went home, to the correct ships for evacua- we will cherish forever. From He wants his family to know but Pop went on to Wiesbaden, tion when they were kicked out Waynesfield to France to Germa- how our country stood strong Germany, until January 1947. It of North Korea by the Chinese. ny to Korea and back to Waynes- together and what the children was there that he met the love Pop said they would lay in bed at field is one journey that brings are really honoring when they of his life and future wife for 61 night and watch 15-inch diameter true the statement, “There’s no say the pledge to the flag. He is years, Helene Nikolaenko. Pop shells being shot from the ship place like home.”

KoreAN WAR Strange sights while serving in Japan

From Bob Stubbs, of Lima From Toledo we were infantry and were sent to they sent six of us to Fort Mead, put on a train headed for Korea. Maryland, to open another school Editor’s note: Bob Stubbs Fort Knox, Kentucky, for Fortunately, I was sent to train medics. I was one of served in the Korean War from basic training. to San Antonio, Texas, those six. 1951-‘52. Upon completion of to be trained as a medic. After we got the school set up I was taken in to the Army in basic training some went The students with the best we started receiving students, early January 1951. There were 28 in different facilities grades were sent on to before this Fort Sam Houston in from the Lima area left early that around the U.S. for Stubbs leadership school. San Antonio was the only school morning on a bus to Toledo for a specialized schools, others When we were finished physical and sworn in the Army. were assigned to the with leadership school See sights | 13 LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 13

KoreAN WAR

Superior Coach in Lima that we Sights “As you could imagine we saw some terrible sights we will could remove the seats and place never forget and the worst ones never made it back even to wheel-less stretchers in there and From page 12 the hospital. haul up to 28 patients from the Don’t ever forget what these soldiers gave up for us. War is airfield to our hospital. in the U.S. to train medics. While I was stationed there The personnel sent to Fort hell.” we had a sizable earthquake Mead were instructors at the and a large hole appeared and school. In addition to being By the way, our ship had a days later I arrived in Yokohama. there was another underground an instructor they needed a surgeon on board and there was I took a train that had sleeper completely stocked with beds, mailman. I got that job. They a man on a freighter that had an cars, but the bunks were only linens everything they would also needed a physical training attack of appendicitis. The ship about 5 feet long which of course need. We had no idea it was instructor. I also got that job. he was on was headed to the U.S. was too short for most GIs. there. They even had several The mailroom was in a small and we were going to Japan but The hospital near Yokohama motorcycles stored underground. room inside the day room which we had passed each other a day had been where they trained As you could imagine we saw had a ping pong table and since earlier so they turned both ships Japanese officers, it was a good some terrible sights we will never I spent quite a bit of time there I around and we met to get the facility with swimming pool, forget and the worst ones never would be challenged for a game patient. gymnasium with tennis courts, made it back even to the hospital. of ping pong quite often. We ran cables from our ship bus service to Yokohama and Don’t ever forget what these I noticed that all the medics to theirs, sent a transfer basket train service to everywhere in soldiers gave up for us. War is that I knew that had not been to on the cables, they placed the Japan. hell. Korea were being sent. Knowing patient in the basket and we This was about a 700-bed By the way, I retired from this I thought I would also get a brought him aboard our ship hospital and was close to an Superior Coach where I was a clerk MOS added to my medic where he had the surgery. Of airfield so we usually got patients salesman and later a regional MOS and avoid being sent to course he ended up in Japan with in from Korea six to eight hours sales manager for funeral coaches Korea. I was sleeping in a nice us. after they were wounded. and ambulances and later was clean warm bed and eating good When we got to Japan they We had buses made by transferred to school buses. food in a nice dining room and started issuing us winter to me that seemed better than clothing, M1 rifles etc., the kind eating and sleeping in a fox hole of things you need for battle. in the winter time with people This gave me concern, of course. shooting at you trying to end But the next day they called A Place to Remember your life. out about 10 names, mine being And I also knew that when one one that would stay in Japan, of your guys got shot it was your assigned to a military hospital job to go get him and try to keep there. him alive until he could get back I was sent to a hospital in Gethsemani to a MASH unit. And while you Kobe and my clerk MOS got me were doing all this that guy that an office job. My job was mainly Cemetery & Mausoleums shot your buddy was probably sending out daily reports on all waiting with his loaded weapon the patients to the Pentagon, for a medic to show up so he Tokyo General Hospital and our could pick him off. own filing records, which I was in Well the captain was a nice charge of. Thanks and guy and I was visiting with him We were very fortunate to have one evening and asked him if he a really great chef. When a supply would sign for me to get a clerk ship came in the hospital had God Bless our MOS and he agreed. so I got the first choice to get the food the paperwork and he signed it. chef wanted and he did us well. About as soon as my new MOS The chef got to be one of my went through the computers clerk friends and I ate good! Veterans I was notified to report to But that didn’t last very long Pittsburg, California, to be sent because we got word that they overseas. were going to close that hospital. Dan & Noah Gallagher I was on the ship for 11 days Soon I was advised that I would thinking every day that I never be going to another hospital near www.gethsemanilima.com again would see my family. I got Yokohama which was about 400 married about two months before miles north of Kobe. I got on a 419-233-0484

entering the military. train in Kobe and about three OH-70084756T 14 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Vietnam War Lima Senior grad joined the Navy

From Thomas L. Smith

I served in the U.S. Navy from 1974-1985, MS2 Second Class Petty Officer. I’m 62 years old. Graduated from Lima Senior High School 1974. I went into the U.S. Navy three days after I graduated from high school. Served on three sea com- mands during my tour. USS Hull (DD 945), USS Arkansas (CGN 41), Amphibious Base, ACU2 (Assault Craft Unit Two). I lived in various states, been to 12 countries. Married my wife who I have known since fifth grade, 38 years now. We have four children born in four different states. Smith shared some of his memorable moments. OH-70084837T LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 15

Cold War Artillery man to mess hall From Gregory Pitts took what was given to me. you and you know your My basic training was a way around in the kitchen “I have so much respect for tough 13 weeks straight in something we’d never the United States and all Editor’s note: Gregory Pitts Fort Sill, Oklahoma. A life seen, being you are an branches of the service. I writes, I am an Army veteran changer for a little boy from artilleryman. I told him originally from Lima. Florida is Lima. I successfully met the my whole story. He smiled love the American flag and where I’ve called home for the past requirements to be a fight- and said it’s your lucky respect it. Why? It enabled 14 years. Though I’m in Florida, ing soldier. My confidence Pitts day. We have an on the job me to be the man I am today. I read the paper every day. The soared. training for 90 days. If you I’ll always stand with pride south side of Lima is where I grew After Fort Sill, I was sent pass all tests, you’ll never at any ceremony where our up. to Fort Hood, Texas. Once get- have to leave the kitchen. I ended Graduated from Lima Senior in ting settled, my sergeant told me up doing my entire enlistment in great flag is displayed. God 1983. I’m 53 years old. In 1985, to report to the kitchen (mess the mess hall (kitchen). bless the United States of I enlisted in the United States hall). I did so. The first day they I have so much respect for the America.” Army. Initially, I accepted a job as had me peeling potatoes. After United States and all branches an artillery man, with the hopes two weeks, I asked the mess of the service. I love the Ameri- of being in food service once the (kitchen supervisor) sergeant can flag and respect it. Why? It at any ceremony where our great position became available. Not how much longer did they need enabled me to be the man I am flag is displayed. God bless the wanting to wait around in Lima, I me. His reply was, Pitts, we like today. I’ll always stand with pride United States of America. Thank you for serving Our country and protecting our freedom

Your friends at HONORING

OH-70086060T VETERAN’S DAY 16 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Cold War Family

Father Harry Boltz Jr. would have been 98 this Proud to serve in Cold War year, U.S. Army 1942- From LaRee D. Little, of Lima try to compare my service to that of those 1945. who faced hostile fire and who may have been injured or killed in service to their Editor’s note: LaRee D. Little is 80 years country. But neither I nor anyone else old. ever chose the time and circumstances My name is LaRee D. Little, and I am of his or her birth, and along with that a PROUD Cold War veteran. I was born the possibility of service during armed in 1938 and was 15 years old when the conflict. Like everyone else who has served Korean War ended, and by 1965 when honorably, I followed orders. things really got heated up in Vietnam, I I spent nearly two years within miles was 27, married, and had two children. of the Iron Curtain and every month we Family continues I am aware that many of my Cold War stood an alert to prepare for the possibility comrades seem almost embarrassed to that the Russians might do something admit that when our time came to do our stupid. And if they had, I would have service today duty no one was shooting at us. Could continued to follow orders. that Era of Peace be due at least in part to I am now 80 years old and the time From Peggy Hunter-Boltz, of Wapakoneta the fact that American troops all over the approaches when I may eventually require globe were holding the line? assisted living care. Had I served during I served in the army from 1957- a time of armed conflict — and even if I I am proud to say that both my son 1960. After basic training at Fort Knox, had never left the safety of the continental and I have served in the U.S. Army. Kentuck, I attended eight months of USA — I would be entitled to financial Actually, my son, John Hunter, is cur- Army Security Agency training at Fort assistance for such care. Once again, rently active duty in the U.S. Army. Devens, Massachusetts. I then served 20 however, because no one was shooting He has just completed training as months with the 182nd USASA Company when I served I am not eligible for that a 94R, Avionic And Survivability at Rothwesten Kaserne near Kassel, benefit. Equipment Repairer. He began his Germany, followed by three months with There was a saying back in those days Army career in August 2015 as an Peggy Hunter- the same company at Herzogenaurach — that I never really understood — that a Boltz, age infantryman. He was assigned to Base near Nurnberg. I served as a radio complaining soldier is a happy soldier, so I 64, U.S. Army the 101st Airborne Division at Fort teletype intercept operator, and our duty guess I must still be a happy soldier. 1976-1980. Campbell, Kentucky. He deployed to was so secret that even we didn’t know I am proud of my service to my country. Mosul, Iraq, while stationed with the what we were doing — “Just following I stand and salute when I hear the National 101st Airborne. He has completed orders, Sir.” Anthem, and I enjoy wearing clothing and awarded the Air Assault Badge. On Aug. 26, 1960, at Fort Dix, New that identifies me as a veteran. And as I He is just graduating from his new Jersey, those of us who were being purchase additional veteran’s clothing it training and is heading to Fort Hood, discharged from active duty were will be clearly marked “Cold War.” I am Texas. addressed by a captain who apparently had not embarrassed that I was never shot at I served as WAC (WAC was ended lost one leg in Korea. He assured us that — but that was not my choice. But I know in 1978, and female soldiers became just because we had not faced enemy fire that if I had been, I would have done the S on, John regular Army) in the U.S. Army from we shouldn’t think that our service to our same as those who were, which was to Hunter, age 1976-1980 as a medic and admin- follow orders. (Please note that this is the 22. Entered country was any less valuable than that service August istrative assistant. I was stationed of those who had. It didn’t take long to fourth time I have used the term “follow, 2015 and at Walter Reed Medical Center and discover that apparently was this just one followed or following orders.”) Yes, it is currently then went to Germany and stationed more GI (Government Issued) lie. was and still is that important. serving. with 128th Combat Support Hos- Over the next five years I worked, Although I won’t be around to see it, pital. After my term of service was married, started a family, and in 1965 — I am proud to know that when I am laid completed, I began working for the federal govern- without benefit of the GI Bill — completed to rest my casket will be covered by the ment and retired after 30 years. my first college degree. Before that year American flag, and that those who remain My dad, Harry Boltz Jr. was a World War II was over the peacetime GI Bill took will hear the sound of Taps. And maybe veteran and spent his time in northern Africa and effect and it helped me pay the cost of a few will also shed a tear as I often did Italy with the 86th Ordinance Company. He has my master’s degree, but there was no when Taps was played, not for me but since passed but was very proud of his service. Our retroactive reimbursement for the college in honor of all who served. And I will lie family has members that have been in U.S. Army, work I had already completed. under a marker that will forever identify U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines and U.S. Air Force. I appreciate the sacrifice of those who me as a veteran. Thanks for remembering current and past mili- served during wartime, and I would never God bless the USA. I love you. tary members. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 17

Family A tribute from one proud family From Dave May III he should be very proud of. To this there for became more positive and day he holds his head high as only I now realize that he is going to This Veterans Day tribute goes a veteran can do, and I’m proud to be one fine Marine. Knowing that out to the two most important men be his son. on Nov. 2 he will become a U.S. in my life, my father, David May, As I write this my eldest son Marine a week before this comes and my son, Nicholas May. Nicholas is going through boot- to print will be one of the proudest My father served in the Navy camp for the Marines. Watching moments of my life. from 1964-‘68. If I could write that boy grow into a man has been This letter is coming from an old down all the stories I’ve heard a blessing. His patriotism started sailor myself who considers him- from that proud man, I could make early, and I couldn’t be more proud self very lucky to be in the middle a book out of them. He took the of him. His letters from bootcamp of these two fine men. Three men discipline and hard work ethic at first broke my heart, but as I got from one proud family to have he got from the Navy and built a more and more of them, his atti- served this great nation with pride Three men in the May family have served. wonderful life for his family that tude and commitment to what he’s and honor.

Family Family memory gardens – love displayed From Nancy Calvelage 36 smaller stones with the name of each of the 36 great Editor’s note: Nancy Calvelage grandkids, with two writes, We believe that this story more to be added is worth sharing. Our father is soon. 93 years old and is always sur- • Etched on each rounded by each generation of love. Calvelage of these stones is a We have all been blessed for many praying angel with years by the love story that began the birth year of each over 73 years ago while our par- child. ents (Bernie and Edie Calvelage) • Our father furthered this gar- were in high school at Fort Jen- den with an additional stone called nings, continued through his ser- “Edie’s Angels-Precious Gems” vice in World War II and raising Another way to keep his wife of 71 six children on the farm. There is years (two and a half months shy nothing better than family love. The Calvelage family has made several stone memorials to celebrate and honor their of 72 years) and our mother close family members. • Started when our mother in all our hearts. passed away at the age of 91, July • Around the “Edie’s Angels” grandchild’s baptism. • Etched on this stone is a but- 30, 2017. rock are 17 smaller stones with the • Shortly after this initial gar- terfly. We have come to believe • The grandchildren planted a name of each of the 17 grandchil- den, a second garden plan evolved. that when seeing a butterfly, Mom tree on the family farm outside of dren and their birth year. • This rock is etched with “Ber- is with us. Ottoville in her memory. • Etched on each of these stones nie’s Bunch-The Great Grandkids.” With beautiful memories and • Our father suggested a stone are a pair of angel wings surround- This is our second memorial gar- overflowing love, Cheryl Kitson, project as a love memorial to her. ing a heart. den. Dale Calvelage, Dennis Calvelage, • Central point of this memo- • The idea of the angel came • Located at our father’s house Nancy Calvelage, Alan Calvelage rial garden is a large rock that says from our mother who had given a in Ottoville. and Teresa Van Grootheest “Edie’s Angels-Her Grandchildren.” hanging door angel for each great • Around “Bernie’s Bunch” are 18 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Family The story about the behind the scenes hero From Teresa Counts Bungard, of Cridersville

Editor’s note: Teresa Bungard writes, “I can only imagine how my grandmother felt with all of her boys gone at the same time, if this was the case. … My mother was from England (where she met my father during World War II). She had three brothers who were in England’s military. Two returned home. Her brother, Bazille, was missing in action and was never heard from again. It is very dif- ficult for me to discuss the men in my life who were all involved in wars. I feel a lot of pain, but I also feel very proud that so many of my uncles, my father and my hus- band represented their countries so faithfully and with so much patriotism.” From left, Charles M. Counts (father/Army-Air Force Division), Kenneth Counts (uncle/Army), LeRoy Counts (grandfather/Navy), Pete My husband has always been my Counts (uncle/joined Army after high school) and Donald Counts (uncle/Army). “behind the scenes hero.” He is not a boastful person and doesn’t often ingly recognize their right bands, no drum rolls play- together again and becoming discuss his experiences during his to do so. (It is interesting to ing. Thousand of others more unified. And for those tour of duty in Vietnam. Harry has note that when hundreds of arrived home in the middle who wanted prayer taken out an enormous amount of strength thousand of our citizens are of the night without media of schools and anything denot- that others could easily miss. gathered at sports stadiums coverage or celebrations of ing religion off our government Harry was a propeller and jet for games being broadcast any kind. After the war, it buildings, etc., what was the first engine mechanic serving in the nationally, only a few are was back to life, as usual for thing that President Bush did? He Air Force during the Vietnam era. showing such disrespect. I Bungard most; except for the thou- prayed and we prayed with him. He worked on planes making cer- wonder what would happen sands who arrived home After Desert Storm and the tain that they were safe. He was if the TV cameras only focused on broken hearted, broken emotion- Persian Gulf wars, our country not out in the fields fighting, but the patriotic observers and ignored ally and mentally, physically and started welcoming our military frequently had to take cover and those few who are only making drug addicted. (Drugs were plen- back home. Bands were playing dodge incoming rounds of fire. To themselves look bad?) In some tiful in Vietnam.) Many remained and drums were rolling once this day, he still gets a little edgy countries, those disrespectful citi- in the armed forces or went in again. Since those events, my hus- if a balloon pops unexpectedly or zens would be sentenced for trea- to the reserves. Harry was in the band started getting, “Thank you a sudden severe noise occurs. His son and put to death. That won’t reserves. for your service” as well as hand thrashing around and yelling in happen in this country because of There was a lot of unrest in shakes. Americans are not going bed at night disappears once he is people like my husband and the America during the Vietnam War. to allow another Vietnam post- awakened. hundreds of thousands of others Much was about politics, many war mentality. One thing I admire about my like him. thousands were involved in peace- My husband is now age 79. He husband is his strong faith, his In over 100 years, the Vietnam ful demonstrations against the continues to love his country, devotion to his family, and his War was the only war in which war, many were conscientious right or wrong, still loves his love and patriotism to his coun- there were no welcome home objectors, and many went across family and his God. He prefers try. It saddens us to learn of U.S. parades, no parties, no bands, no the border to Canada to avoid to live in peace but would go citizens who not only refuse to drum rolls, and no, “Thank you going to Vietnam and to avoid back to fight and die for us all. pledge allegiance to our flag, but for your service” statements made. being drafted into the armed His strength is more than most show disrespect by burning it, Harry returned home between forces. of us could ever imagine. He will and refuse to sing our National noon and 2 in the afternoon with After the devastation of 9/11, always remain my “behind the Anthem, even though we hesitat- family members only waiting no our country started pulling scenes hero.” LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 19

Family

John Neumeier in Normandy, 1945. Stars and stripes forever

From Mike Neumeier, of Alger served in Vietnam, came home not the same brother I knew. Very proud, all of them, to I am very proud of my family make us safe and free. who served our country and flag. My uncle Don Fillhart served My father, Robert Neumeier, was in Korean War from 1951-‘53, a Red Bull 34th Infantry Division talked about Hamburger Hill, and found Rommel at Monte was there, said wasn’t pretty Cassino, was wounded, four with tear in his eyes. This frame reflects the service of a father and son. Bronze Stars, two silver, three My friend Joe Stone served in above the call of duty, one Purple Vietnam, was master sergeant, Heart. only two came back from mis- A family’s service His brother, John H. Neumeier, sion. He would start shaking landed at Normandy with the when talking about it. My friend From your loving family, Mom, My brothers and sister and I 332nd Combat Engineers, June Nick Youkum was wounded in Cookie, Pam and John don’t know what our mom went 10, 1944. Dad or Uncle John ‘Nam, didn’t talk about it much. through when Dad was gone. didn’t talk much about the war The hell our boys went But we do remember when our but Aunt Lidia Neumeier served through makes me proud to say Editor’s note: brother Dan was gone. The day in the WACS to help the boys that I love all who served. Great Specialist 4, 4th class, Daniel he came home, I picked him up at wounded coming home. job, boys. Stars and stripes for- R. Cook, age 71, Vietnam, served the airport to surprise the family. My brother John Neumeier ever. April 1, 1966 to March 23, 1968 We went to LCC to get our sister Staff Sgt. Paul W. Cook, served Pam and brother John out of class. March 24, 1944, to Jan. 11, 1946 On our way to Mom and Dad’s My brother Dan Cook had this house, we passed them in the car. Don’t this winter! frame made for our dad, Paul We could see Mom’s face when she sh iver Cook. Included are their dog tags, saw Dan. What a great day he was Dad’s Purple Heart, snap shots home safe! I often wonder what Stay warm with FREE utilities! Two Newly RemodeledTwo Newly Remodeled of their time in World War II and Dad had to be thinking knowing TwoTwoTwo Newly Newly RemodeledRemodeledTwoTwo Newly Newly RemodeledRemodeled ApartmentsApartmentsApartments AvailableAvailableAvailableApartmentsTwo Newly Remodeled Available Vietnam. In the center is the silver his son was going through what he AffordableWindows CabinetsApartmentsApartmentsApartments housing Available AvailableAvailable Dominion NEW! Windows NEW!Cabinets NEW!NEW!WindowsStove NEW!NEW!NEW!RefrigeratorCabinetsNEW! Windows NEW! Cabinets Flooring CountertopsNEW!NEW!WindowsWindowsStove NEW!NEW!NEW!RefrigeratorCabinets dollar they both carried through had experienced. Had to be hard NEW!NEW!FlooringWindowsFlooring NEW!NEW!NEW!CountertopsCabinets NEW! NEW!NEW!FlooringWindowsFlooring NEW!NEW!CountertopsCabinets FlooringCallCall Us Us TODAY! 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In •your •All All Utilities leaseUtilities WE Included Included pay: in in Rent Rent InIn your lease lease WE WE pay: pay: • Off-Street• Off-Street Parking Parking • In your lease WE pay: • Off-Street Parking • Off-StreetGasGas• Off-Street Bill Bill Parking Parking Apartments • Off-Street Parking • Off-StreetGas Bill Parking GasGas Bill Bill • Must be Age 62 or Older • Off-StreetWater Bill Parking Gas Bill • •Must Must be be Age Age 62 62 or or Older Older Water• Must Bill be Age 62 or Older Water Bill wedding day Aug. 12, 1944. Then Unfortunately, our dad passed • •Must MustWater be be AgeBill Age 62 62 or or Older Older Water Bill • MustHandicapped be Age 62 or orDisabled Older • MustElectricElectric be Bill AgeBill 62 or Older Water Bill Handicapped• Handicapped or Disabledor Disable HandicappedHandicapped or Disabledor Disabled ElectricElectric Bill Bill • HandicappedElectric Bill or Disable 108 East High Street he returned to the war not to away April 19, 2016, at the age of Handicapped or Disabled Handicapped or Disabled Electric Bill DominionDominionTaking Building Building Apartments ApplicationsDominionDominion Building Building Apartments 108 East High Street Dominion 108Building East High Street Apartments 108108 East East High High Street Street 419-224-2224 TakingTaking Applications Applications Mon.-Fri. Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. p.m.DominionTaking Building Applications Mon.-Fri. Apartments 8-4 p.m. return until his first daughter was 96. My brother Dan and his wife 108 East High Street Taking Applications Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. 419-224-2224419-224-2224 108419-224-2224 East419-224-2224 High Street Taking ApplicationsTDDTDD 800-750-0750 800-750-0750 Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. TDD 800-750-0750 Mon.-Fri. 8-4Taking ApplicationsTDDTDD 800-750-0750pm. 800-750-0750 Mon.-Fri. 8-4 p.m. 10 months old. live in Gomer. 419-224-2224 419-224-2224 OH-70087884T TDD 800-750-0750 TDD 800-750-0750 20 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Family An entire family of soldiers From John Desenberg, of Lima NEWS OF THE DAY A Lima newspaper ran a story that Editor’s note: John Desenberg is detailed how the news reached 77. He served in the Ohio Army home. News of the electrocution National Guard from 1964-1973. death in the Philippines of William On the morning of May 28, R. Coon reached his wife and 1945, the USS Drexler, a destroyer parents a few days before news in the U.S. naval fleet, was of Desenberg’s status of missing deployed on the floating “picket in action reached his relatives. line” that surrounded the island The two men were related — Desenberg was Coon’s uncle — of Okinawa in support of the and their families lived across from vicious battle being fought by U.S. each other on Route 4. Coon’s Army and U.S. Marine combat- three brothers were still in the ants against a formidable Japanese service, James A., Donald E. and force determined to defend to the Theodore. death. It was the last and bloodiest of the battles in the Pacific Theater of operations that had already seen After the loss of our father, ours many terrible and deadly battles became a military family. My old- before it during World War II. The est brother Don, now deceased, death toll had grown higher and joined the U.S. Navy during the higher. Korean War. He served aboard That morning two Japanese two separate aircraft carriers Kamikaze planes scored nearly assisting the takeoff and landing direct hits on the Drexler, killing of propeller-driven Corsairs and many American sailors instantly later, Navy Panther jets, in the Sea and sinking her within minutes. of Japan. My next older brother About 100 of her crew escaped Bill was a paratrooper in the U.S. death but found themselves float- Army’s 82nd Airborne during the ing in an inferno of floating of on mid 1950s. He voluntarily made fire from the explosions and nearly multiple jumps out of perfectly safe all were later rescued. My father, airplanes. I in turn served a 10-year John Desenberg points to his father’s name at the Punchbowl Crater, a monument in Hawaii. Donald A. “Art” Desenberg was stint in the Ohio Army National not a survivor. He left a wife and Guard and achieved the rank of 1st four children at home. A little over Lieutenant. two months later, World War II was In our family, our two oldest over. sons, John and Tony, are Navy vet- There are still survivors of the erans. John sailed through the Indi- USS Drexler alive today, although an Ocean, the Philippines and then their numbers are rapidly diminish- performed land duty with Naval ing. A monument with the names Intelligence near Tokyo, Japan. Our of those lost at sea and during land youngest son Jim, like his dad, also battles is maintained at the Punch- served in the Ohio Army National bowl Cemetery at Honolulu. It has Guard as an NCO at discharge. since been expanded to include all The tradition continues with wars in the Pacific theater, includ- two grandchildren. Caleb and ing Korea and Vietnam. In 1989, Mackenzie Clay, son and daughter my wife Carol and I were able to of our daughter Christine, went the visit and take pictures of my dad’s academy route. Caleb graduated memorial, providing a bit of clo- sure. See fAMILY | 25 D onald A. Desenberg is listed on the monument at the cemetery. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 21

Family Patriotism — Brothers wanted 100-plus years of military service to do their duty From Susan Bumbaugh, of Lima From Bill Moore, of Lima

My oldest brother, Donald Patriotism is the life blood of Moritz, signed up for the Navy any nation. It is a deep love and on his 18th birthday: Nov. 4, concern for your country, and a 1944. He was attending Central keen desire to defend her when High School in Lima at the time. challenges arise. It sometimes He reported Dec. 5 to Fort Hays evolves into giving one’s life in that in Columbus but trained at the defense. I fly my American flag Great Lakes Naval base. Some- O ur family of six children on yet another every day, as an outward sign of one had stolen his billfold on Christmas with a brother in the service. my patriotism. I am proud to do the trip overseas, so he had no Top: Ramon, Myron and Donald. Front: so. I am also so very proud of the papers, no money, no identifica- Susan Moritz Bumbaugh holding Deborah members of our family (extended), tion. Neither the Navy or Red Moritz Riepenhoff and Larry Moritz. who have served in the U.S. mili- Cross would help him since his tary in defense of the American papers were gone, so his ship- Island. After the war ended, he nation for the past 100-plus years. mates shared soap, razor blades stayed in the Navy for another The following is a listing of those S gt. Harold Moore, 1925, Ohio National and other necessary items until year to do electrical updates on individuals, beginning with my Guard he could get money and papers. the airstrip there. He said that paternal grandfather, who The carrier stopped at Pearl it was the greatest experience of was the first to serve. the military to see if she Harbor and they saw the his life where he learned to be My grandfather, John could find out more info destruction, especially the battle- independent. Donald sent let- R. Moore, was the first to about her imprisoned broth- ship Arizona, on his way to the ters home that sometimes had serve. He served in the Ohio er. Pvt. James H. Chisman Philippine Islands. Many years sentences blotted or cut out. National Guard from June (a future son-in-law of Bea- later he and his wife, Jean, would Mother and Dad always thought 3, 1902, until Feb. 28, 1905. trice) served in the Army visit the harbor under happier that was a time the Navy was part He was attached to Co. K, Air Corps from 1945-1947. circumstances with the Arizona of an attack and didn’t want any 2nd Infantry, ONG. His son, Moore He will later have a son who a national monument. information that would alert the my father, Sgt. R. Harold would also serve. Richard Donald became an electri- Moore, followed him by H. (Dick) Moore, Harold’s cian at an airbase on Guivan See duty | 22 serving in the Ohio National Guard oldest son, served in the USAF in from 1925-1928. ( Co. G, 148th Alaska from 1949-1953. All of the Infantry, Camp Perry, Ohio.). His above are now deceased. • Proud to have Served younger brother, Pvt. Lewis E. Another son of Harold’s, William Moore, joined the same outfit at J. (Bill) Moore, followed in the • Special A Discount T RUSTED for N AME age 15. Lewis then transitioned USAF from 1952-1956. He served all Veterans into the Army, where he served in Korea as an A/1c with the 5th until 1956, retiring as a Major. Air Force in 1952-‘53. A son-in-law IN THE During World War II Lewis was of Harold’s, Edward Goldsberry, captured in Italy (1944), and spent entered the Army in 1954 and about one year in a German prison served as an E-3 until 1956. A/1c [email protected] M ONUMENT B USINESS camp (Oflag 64) located in Poland. Michael Rutigliano, another son- Beatrice H. (Moore) Hedrick, a in-law of Harold’s, served in the We1305 also Allentown engrave Road yard rocks We’ve engraved on over 60,000 monuments sister to Harold and Lewis, served USAF in both Japan and Korea, next to Dairy Queen as a Tech 3 in the Army (WAC) 419-228-4796 • All Forms Of Monument Sales from 1944-1947. She had entered See years | 22 OH-70088338T Robert & Terri Johns, owners • On Site Service • Honest Pricing, Compassionate Staff Robert & Terri Johns, owners Visit us at our main office. Come to our main office 1305 Allentown Road next to Dairy Queen 419-228-4796 [email protected] 877-228-4796 22 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Family Thank you to my uncles From Dolly (Madison) Sharp and had a daughter and son. Uncle Alton died April 10, 1998. Alton is I would like to take this oppor- buried in Elm Grove Cem- tunity to thank my uncles for etery, St Marys. their sacrifices while serving their James H. Tully was born country. Most of my uncles served and raised in Oklahoma. during World War II, the Korean A. Binkley Tully N. Binkley R. Madison F. Madison Baughman He worked on the oil pipe- War and Vietnam. I would like to line out west. He married submit their names and photos as gave while serving their country. where youths went to remote areas my mom’s sister, Pauline, a tribute to them for their service, My mother, Lois Madison gave to plant trees with other youths and they had one daughter. Uncle for the sacrifices they made, and me her recollections of her broth- to earn money. After graduation Jim served in the Army during to remember them today and more ers and brother-in-law. Alton went into the Army and World War II. He was in the inva- importantly, to say thank you. I Alton C. Binkley, my mother’s became a paratrooper in World sion of France and Germany. He know my cousins will always be oldest brother, at an early age, War II and the Korean War. Alton proud of the sacrifices their fathers worked in Oregon in the CC camps worked at Goodyear in St. Marys See unCLES | 23

in the Korean War: Myron “Mike” tant messages to commanding Corps. He was on the cruiser USS Duty Moritz in the Army and Ramon officers. When he returned home, Manchester that went up and Moritz in the Navy. Myron was he worked at Lima Westinghouse down the coast of Korea, patrol- From page 21 a telecommunicator, much like Electrical doing much the same ling. Myron and Ramon tried to “Radar” on the TV show “MASH” thing in production and material hook up in Korea, but never man- enemy. We had a blue star in the and lived in a tent near the 38th handling. Later he worked for Pet- aged to do that. Ramon became a window meaning we had someone parallel. Much of Ohio is on the rochemical. When Myron passed teacher and later an employee of in the service. A gold star meant 38th parallel and somehow that away at 52, he was watching Ford Motor Co. He died in 2011. they were killed in action. We were made Mom feel better knowing “MASH” with his son, Mark. My brothers all wanted to do fortunate. Donald came home safe the weather wouldn’t be any worse Ramon Moritz joined the Navy, their duty, and we were so very and was 92 on Nov. 4 of this year. than ours. Myron was responsible was trained as a medic and was proud of them. Parents were Fay Two other brothers would serve for getting supplies and impor- then attached to The Marine and Kathryn Moritz.

Moore, who married a grandson of Harold’s, is still serving today. do our part in serving the needs Years (Bryan) of Harold’s, served in the He entered the USAF in 1995, of this great nation of ours. We USAF as a Nurse Captain from and has served deployments in must continue to give the proper From page 21 1996-2001. Colonel James H. Kuwait (two), Saudi Arabia, respect and support for our Chisman II, Ohio Army National Washington DC, Iraq, Afghani- military as we have done for so from 1951-1960. E-3 Robert Cook, Guard, US Army; was a helicop- stan, and two in the Arab Emir- many past years. Patriotism is a a nephew of Harold’s, entered the ter pilot in Vietnam, (1969), com- ates. He is currently serving (full thing of the heart, but we must Army in 1953 and served until manded a unit in Kosovo and is time) with the Ohio Air National continue to express our love and 1955 including a tour in Korea. now retired from the military. He Guard (Director of Operations appreciation to those who have Timothy Moore, USMC E-5, is a son of the before mentioned for the 123rd Air Control Squad- accepted the responsibility to served from 1977-‘81, includ- Pvt. James Chisman, and Betty ron, in Blue Ash.) keep America strong. God bless ing a hitch in Japan. He is a son Chisman, a daughter of Beatrice. I am so proud to be a part of our military, their spouses, and of Dick Moore, and a grandson Lt. Col. Bryan P. Moore, a son of this family who, over the many all those who have served in war of Harold’s. Susan E. (Raney) Bill and Pat Moore and grandson years, have always stepped up to or peace, and God bless America. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 23

Family Thank you for your patriotism

From Veronica Wende

June 1968 was a special time for my father. It’s been 50 years since my father flew home from Vietnam, a war that was less than popular and those that came home safe were underappreciated. Although it was a difficult time for my father and many others coming home from war, it made him who he is today, one of the most patri- otic men I know! Over the years he’s instilled in me the importance of being patriotic. Patriotism. A word in today’s world that is being questioned. What does it truly mean to be patriotic? By definition, patriotism is love for or devotion to one’s country. So, how does one show patriotism? For some it may be Wende shared these photos, which are from when her father, James R. Wende US Wende shared these photos, which are from when her father, James R. Wende US Army See pATRIOTISM | 24 Army Spec-4, served in the Vietnam War. Spec-4, served in the Vietnam War.

Ned and Neil, from what my moth- Robert D. Madison. Uncle Bob S. Baughman, married my dad’s er recalls, received their pilot’s served in the Army and lived in sister, Gladys, and he served Uncles license before they received their Dunkirk. Uncle Bob was a happy in World War II. After the war, From page 22 drivers license. After high school, man and always rode bikes with Uncle Ralph operated a green Uncle Ned entered the Navy where us when he would visit our fam- house in Kenton with his wife, would not talk about the war and he served four years. He then tried ily. He would tell us, “See my son and daughter for many years. what he lived through. After the his hand at working at Goodyear finger, see my thumb, see my He retired to a farm outside of war, Uncle Jim worked and retired in St Marys, however he didn’t fist? You better run!” That was Kenton and gave his produce to from Westinghouse in Lima, and like to be confined in a factory, so Uncle Bob! Uncle Bob and his the soup kitchen. Uncle Ralph then moved to Florida. Uncle Jim he decided to join the Air Force. wife raised one son and three died Jan. 2, 2007. He is buried in died Feb. 9, 1991 and is buried Uncle Ned was in the Strategic Air daughters in Dunkirk. Uncle Bob Roundhead. in Resthaven Memory Gardens, Command, serving three tours in died Jan. 25, 2006 and is buried Although I didn’t know about Moulton. Vietnam. Afterward, he retired to in Dunkirk Cemetery. their military service, I am sure Ned F. Binkley, my mom’s young- Italy where he lived and later died Floyd “Ted” Madison. Uncle my uncles were proud of their est brother, served in the Navy on Oct. 19, 1974. Uncle Ned is bur- Ted served in World War II and service to their country. and Air Force. Uncle Ned was a ied in Resthaven Memory Gardens, the Korean War. After the war, On this Veterans Day, I say classmate of Neil Armstrong so Moulton. he and his wife raised three sons thank you to my uncles for your my uncle, Neil Abbott, Ned Kieber My father, Don Madison, being and three daughters and lived in service, for giving of yourselves and Neil Armstrong took their fly- the youngest of his family, didn’t Mt. Victory. Uncle Ted died May so that we can still live in a free ing lessons in the same plane that serve in the military. He had two 5, 2008, and is buried in Otter- country. Thank you to all who is hanging at the Air and Space brothers and a brother-in-law who bein Cemetery, Mt. Victory. have served and have given their Museum in Wapakoneta. Uncle served. My dad’s brother-in-law, Ralph lives for our freedom. 24 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Family Patriotism

From page 23 raising a flag every morning, for others it’s standing, removing their hats and placing their hand over their hearts for our National Anthem. In today’s world, just small acts like these can be some of the most controversial things to do, but should they be? As a veteran, my father has a love for our country that only a veteran can understand. I can’t even imagine what my father went through in Vietnam. But, his love for his country grew stronger and continues to grow every day. Lately, with all of the controver- sial topics, you find out who truly understands patriotism. When the National Anthem is sung, you sing it how it should be sung, don’t go making it your own and getting all fancy. Our National Anthem isn’t a time for you to show off, it’s a time to take your God given gift to show your patriotism. Wende shared these photos, which are from when her father, James R. Wende US Army Spec-4, served in the Vietnam War. And the big topic still today, kneeling for the flag. The Ameri- can flag is a symbol of hope, “The American flag is a strength, courage and faith and we symbol of hope, strength, stand to honor it. There are many courage and faith and we that feel that our National Anthem and raising of the flag is a time stand to honor it. There to let their voice be heard, but is are many that feel that our it really? Do you kneel when you National Anthem and raising honor a veteran being announced of the flag is a time to let at a sporting event? No, you stand their voice be heard, but is to honor them. To veterans, like my father, it really? Do you kneel when the flag is an important symbol you honor a veteran being — hope, strength, courage and announced at a sporting faith — four values that can easily event? No, you stand to define what it means to be in the honor them.” military, and so when a soldier dies in war or a veteran passes away, they are laid to rest with the ing in the distance, was for my American flag draped over their grandfather back in 2014, it gave coffin. The flag symbolizes those me chills, that was the first time four values in which each member the meaning of patriotism really of the military carries within them. sank in, because the true meaning The first time I experienced see- of love for your country is putting ing a ceremonial flag draped over your life on the line. a coffin, folded and handed over To both of my grandfathers, my to a grieving family member with father and every veteran, thank you Wende shared these photos, which are from when her father, James R. Wende US Army a 21-gun salute and Taps play- for your patriotism. Spec-4, served in the Vietnam War. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 25

Career Military experience leads to commitment From DeBow Freed, of Ada ing position at West Point student residence halls after 23 years of active duty and had extensive contacts military service in the Army with faculty and staff and DeBow Freed began military to fulfill their lifelong public residents of the communi- service at age 17 and spent seven service commitment through ties in which they lived. She years overseas in the 26th, 32nd leadership of church-related was a lay minister in the and 35th Infantry Regiment of colleges and universities. United Methodist Church the 1st, 7th and 25th Army divi- That led to his becoming Freed and Presbyterian churches sions in Japan, Germany, Korea, dean of one church-related and frequently spoke at Vietnam, and Iran and the Middle university and president of three those churches in the area where East. other church-related universities they lived. He graduated from the Infan- for a total of 32 years as president Their approach was one of life- try School, Army Command and of church-related universities. long public service and getting to Staff College, Air War College Observers noted his and his wife’s know and help others as part of and earned a masters degree prominent role in college, church their approach to public service. from the University of Kansas and community activities, and that He notes that their dedication and a PhD from the University the institutions they served pros- to service to others is partially of New Mexico. He was chief of pered greatly from their devotion a result of being in the military the nuclear branch of the Defense to serving others. service which contributed to Atomic Support Agency and later They left the military service their decision and subsequent DeBow and Catherine Freed was assigned to West Point to help for higher education service. He approach toward others through strengthen the physics program notes that the commitment and their church-related private higher attitudes and experience in public and initiate an academic major in experience in the military service education. The two were very service while being willing and nuclear engineering. was a big factor in their later life of compatible for them. That is, desiring to follow up and develop He and his wife, Catherine community and higher educational military service as preparation ways to benefit and help others. Freed, enjoyed military service but service. At colleges and universi- for lifelong service and lifelong After 23 years of military ser- believed they could make addition- ties they served, he and his wife service attempting to help others vice, they have been enormously al contributions in private church- entertained 3,000-4,000 students, develop themselves for the quality grateful for their opportunity to related higher education as part faculty, staff, alumni, community of life which they sought, and then serve others and the many ways in of their commitment to lifelong members and university guests in attempting to help others. which it enabled them to provide public service. They decided to their home annually. Military service has been a key service to others after active mili- leave their lovely home and appeal- He and Catherine Freed visited step toward developing habits, tary duty.

Family

acy that it encompasses. The U.S. Family flag is not just a colorful and beau- tiful piece of cloth (although it’s From page 20 that too), to be dug out once a year and flown on the Fourth of July. from the United States Military It’s also not just a great symbol of Academy at West Point this last a great country, although it’s that May and Mackenzie is a second also. To me and my family, the flag year cadet at the U.S. Air Force constitutes a very special feeling Academy, Colorado Springs, — that despite loss, but also tri- Colorado. Their father, Brad, is umph — the heart and soul of the also a West Point grad. Grandma many men and women who fought and Grandpa are obviously very and served this great country. And proud. especially those, like my dad, who I and my entire family revere our paid the ultimate sacrifice, and the A monument with the names of those lost at sea and during land battles is maintained at country’s flag and the military leg- yearning for an everlasting peace. the Punchbowl Cemetery at Honolulu. 26 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS

Career Becoming part of a band of brothers

From David Kriegel I ended up flying and living all over the world far removed from Lima. At age 14, I could not Editor’s note: David Kriegel imagine living in of all places served in the U.S. Navy from 1974- Iceland and having my son born 1994, all over the world. He is 68 there while on a Navy Admiral’s and lives in Mishawaka, Indiana. staff. How would you tell your 14 Now I have become a volunteer year old self if you could go military chaplain, performing back in time and tell them your military burial honors for our future? I grew up in a great time fallen veterans over 100 times a for Lima, from 1950-1972. We year including traveling back to had wonderful schools, great Lima. I tell all families at funerals summers, ride your bike, Boy this: Once you join any branch Scout summer camp, the county of the service, at any time, you fair and parades. Riding my bike become one with all veterans. delivering papers for The Lima You do become part of a band News, there was no way I could of brothers. Why? Because once conceive I would be a career you raise your hand to volunteer, Kriegel, with his family, getting an award. Navy pilot. you are putting your life on the I ended up entering the mili- line to protect your nation, your tary late at age 24. Why? Prob- home town, your family and ably to impress my father a World friends. You do not know what War II combat Pacific Marine is going to happen, perhaps war, and for a sense of adventure from during your time of enlistment. watching too many exciting war So this short story is for all the movies. With all I ended up doing Lima veterans. Thank you, broth- I may not have impressed him ers and sisters, for what you did but I know I made him proud or are doing now to protect me, (and sometimes scaring myself). an old veteran.

Kriegel with his son, Adam, as he retired from the Navy. Kriegel with Ray, a World War II veteran. The two do military funerals together. LIMA NEWS SALUTE TO VETERANS Sunday, November 11, 2018 27

Thank YOu Thank you, veterans Let Memorial

From Mary Squires, of Lima were in the Army during World War II. My husband was in the Army Hall stand proud during the Korean War. My brother I am so thankful to our veterans was in the Marine Corps just before and active duty military we have the Vietnam War. One ex son in law From David E. Boyle, of Lima of celebration. Many of the most today. Without them, we would not was in the Air Force, one ex son in talented musicians in American have the freedom we have. They law retired from the Navy with 23 history have performed there. give their all to us each and every years. My grandson in law was in Editor’s note: Boyle is Baxter’s Thousands of dances, concerts, day, and many gave their lives for the Army and was in Afghanistan great-grandson. high school proms and weddings this country. They are the reason and Iraq. My daughter was in the If we could still enter Allen have been enjoyed in the most this country is so great and not Navy, my oldest grandson was in County Memorial Hall we would beautiful structure. because of our president. These the Navy and now my youngest see a bronze plaque stating “Dedi- When Dr. Baxter died The Lima young men and women put every- grandson is in the Navy and just cated to Dr. Samuel A. Baxter, our News told readers, “Lima’s great- thing on the line for each one of us, reenlisted. I am so proud of all of building chairman.” est citizen, Physician, Financier, so we can have our many freedoms them and the sacrifices they made Now closed after years of Promoter and Historian succumbs that other countries do not give to to serve and protect our country. neglect by our past elected officials yesterday. Great Sorrow now rests their citizens. I proudly fly our American flag let’s write to both Senator Brown upon The City and Family.” My family has had members in and wish for peace around the and Portman and request federal Dr. Baxter’s son, Frank Ellison each war. My cousins and uncles world. funds to restore this famous Civil Baxter, continued to honor Allen War memorial which held the County veterans by founding Lima largest meeting of veterans ever Memorial Hospital and naming it held in Lima. Over 15,000 Yankee in 1933 to honor our World War I Thank YOu soldiers came to Lima for a week service men and women. Since I met you, I am not afraid BinkleyBinkley Land Land Surveying,Surveying, LLC LLC From Grace Wooley, of Lima more to say, is Veteran Owned and Operated! But I’m sure glad God, I met You today. Look God, I have never spoken I guess “Zero Hour” will soon be to You, here But now I want to say “How do But I’m not afraid, since I know You do?” You are here. You see God, they told me You The “Signal!” Well God, I’ll have didn’t exist, to go, And like a fool, I believed all of I like you lots, this I want You to VETERANS DAY this. know. Last night from a shell hole, I Look now, this will be a horrible REMEMBERING ALL WHO SERVED saw Your sky, fight, VETERANS DAY I figured right then they had told Who know, I may come to Your me a lie. house tonight. • Boundary Surveying • Topographic Survey Had I taken time to see things Though I wasn’t friendly to You REMEMBERING• FEMA Flood Plain Analysis ALL• Construction WHO Staking/Layout SERVED You made before, • ALTA/ASCM Land Title Survey • Easement Preparation I’d have known they weren’t call- I wonder, God, if You’d wait for • Boundary• Mortgage Surveying Location Survey • AsTopographic Built Surveys Survey ing a spade a spade me at Your door? • FEMA• Lot Flood Splits Plain Analysis • LotConstruction Survey/Plot Plan Staking/Layout I wonder God, if You’d shake my Look! I’m crying! Me! Shedding hand … tears! • ALTA/ASCM Land Title419-236-3768 Survey • Easement Kyle J.Preparation Binkley, P.S. Somehow I feel that You will I wish I had known You these • Mortgage Location Surveywww.binkleylandsurveying.com• As Built Surveys understand. many years. • Lot Splits • Lot Survey/Plot Plan 40925301 Funny I had to come to this hell- Well, I have to go now, God, ish place Goodbye! Before I had time to see Your Strange, since I met You, I’m not 419-236-3768 Kyle J. Binkley, P.S. face. afraid to die. www.binkleylandsurveying.com Well, I guess there isn’t much — Francis Angermayer, June 1944 40925301 OH-70083244T 28 Sunday, November 11, 2018 SALUTE TO VETERANS LIMA NEWS HONORING ALL WHO SERVED HONORING ALL WHO SERVED HONORINGHONORING ALL WHO SERVED ALL WHO SERVED

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