The Newsletter of the Army Residence Community

VolumeThe 32 Number 11 Eagle November 2018

Moments Matter Glenn Nordin's experience page 10 Editor’s Notebook Inside The Eagle There is no end to items we need to become informed of routinely. Let’s clear the list: November 2018 Grace Newton gives me this heads-up: The 1 Front Cover: Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, November 6th 2 Contents is phase 2 of our Strategic Planning Process. 2 Editor’s Notebook These are 2-hour education sessions by Brian 3 Birthdays and Passings Schiff. He will be educating us on senior living 3 Happy Birthday, U.S. Marine Corps trends. There will be two sessions. The first is 3 Veterans Day Observed! 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. in the Auditorium. The second 4-5 A Conversation with the CEO is from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. in the Auditorium. 6 Library Residents are welcome to attend either 7 Traveling Treasures Thanks session. 8-9 How the Chapel Came to Be George McCall advises: The last day to 10-11 Dave Sanderson and Glenn Nordin contribute to the Employee Gift Fund for the 12-13 All in the Family presentation in mid-December, close to 13 WWI Centennial Ceremony Christmas, is December 5th. Please consider 14 Poetry Chronicling a Soldier’s Odyssey and make your donation for this time frame. 15 Wall Artist of the Month: Susan Richmond The monthly authorization is the best way to 16-18 November Activities routinely make this worthwhile gift. 19 November Movies 20 Eagle Luncheon: COL Roman Cantu The Eagle continues on the ARCNet with: Announcements American Revolution, 240 Years Ago Artist of the Month, Works for Display WWI Centennial: WWII: 75 Years Ago Help Bring Christmas to the ARC! ------The visit by US The sign-up sheets for volunteers are on the Air passenger, easel by the bulletin board for Christmas author, and decorations. You may sign up for more than motivational one area if you wish. Please have your friends speaker Dave and neighbors join in also. Christmas at the Sanderson was ARC has been special over the years because an example of the the decorations in the High-Rise absolutely set connections at the a wonderful, ‘welcome home’ mood. ARC on several This year Bert Mitchell and Linda Sorber have levels. Dave stepped up. The best way to thank them is to knows our join in. The decorating begins Wednesday, 14 Director of November thru Tuesday, 20 November. Development Questions? Please contact Bert Mitchell, 210- Anna Sweeden 659-4762 or Linda Sorber at 210-646-5579. from her work with the American Red Cross. Dave visited and shared his story of a life- Please check the ARCNet Eagle for some threatening emergency causing him to be superlative articles, and a continuation of dedicated to a more resolute life. That theme things that you wished you knew. is certainly familiar to Glenn Nordin, a combat fighter pilot who was rescued at the absolute Thank you for giving me the privilege of being right moment. Please turn to page 10. the Editor. --- Kevin Scott

2 The Eagle November 2018 BIRTHDAYS AND PASSINGS EARLY DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS 01 Paul Roush NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS 03 Meg Alexander 01 Helen Cooper 03 Steve Stevens 02 Marilyn Keller 05 Hatsie Meloy 03 Mary “Lou” Dobbs 03 Susan Richmond PASSINGS SINCE LAST ISSUE 03 Forrest Works Mr. Charles Burns September 26 05 Lawson Magruder Mrs. Ursuline Brunnemann October 6 07 Michael Foster Mrs. Marjorie Nichols October 20 07 Roscoe “Lamar” Hunt ------09 Joseph Eikenberry 10 Al Older 10 George Viney 11 Frank Parker 11 Linda Bates 12 Joe Armistead 12 Doris Patterson 13 Martha Bangasser 13 Phyllis Jones 14 Orthus K. “OK” Lewis, Jr.

14 William Wakeland 15 Patricia McWilliam Saturday, 10 November, is the 243rd Birthday 16 Adalyn Mains of the United States Marine Corps 17 Peggy Houlahan 17 Iris Stricker • 11:30 a.m. – Complimentary birthday 18 Stanford Hickman cake in Front Lobby of High Rise 18 Anne Magruder 18 Glenn Nordin • 7:00 p.m. – San Antonio Marching 19 Joan Howey Band will perform in the Auditorium ------19 Melodye Jensen 19 Guinn Unger 21 Bambi Cranmore 22 Joe Gann 22 Ed Olson 24 Patricia Duttweiler 24 Philip Mallory 24 Bob Montgomery 24 David Dee 25 Donald Elliott 25 Fey Harris ARC VETERANS DAY CEREMONY – 25 Jim Klar FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH 27 Dick Cape 28 Gary Halgunseth The ceremony will take place at 10:00 a.m. in 29 Whyllys Byrd front of the High-Rise flag pole. Immediately 29 Howard Deck following the ceremony, those in military 29 Dorothy “D.A.” Hankins uniform are requested in the Front Lobby for 30 Ruby Gratch photographs. Everyone is invited into the 30 Judith Rhone Auditorium for cake, coffee and punch. Military 30 Jo Ullmann uniforms or patriotic dress is encouraged.

November 2018 The Eagle 3 A Conversation with the CEO more clearly to bring greater consistency to this process. We have also created options to KS: The ARC now has a new web site. assist residents in any area who want to downsize into a smaller unit for health or SF: Yes! This is an important step forward in financial reasons. reaching the next generation of Residents. Many prospective Residents bank online, rely KS: The Strategic Planning process has begun . . . on email, research travel plans and make reservations using a hotel website, and so on. SF: I’m glad you used the term ‘process.’ The Strategic Plan, normally forecasting goals and And they often judge the efficiency of a objectives for the next five years, is indeed a business according to the attractiveness and process that teams up the Board of Directors, function of the business’ web site. Grace our Residents, key service providers and Staff. Newton led this effort with support from Rob It’s inclusive. It can’t be done in a vacuum. I’m Gilley and our team and did a great job to bring sure most Residents would welcome the this online. Please give them your thanks after opportunity to add their opinion to “the way you’ve explored armyresidence.com. things are done.” Often our standard way of doing things is simply because that’s the way Of course, we are now working to upgrade the we did it yesterday, or last year. new version of the ARCNet for Residents, with the Roster, Daily Activities, and The Eagle! Let me turn the tables on you, for the sake of This feature should be completed within the an example. Has The Eagle always sent out a next few weeks. weekly online Eagle Extra, announcing coming events? How much does that cost? KS: The new Facility Dude program is up and running. KS: The Eagle Extra began in October 2016, so that the SF: Yes, WorxHub, the next generation of the newsletter could become a magazine-style paper. repair and maintenance program we knew as Facility Dude, is up and running. Please use it SF: A weekly online supplement is a for passing on requirements to Maintenance, significant upgrade. You did that by using a Info Systems, and Housekeeping. software already used by Communications, Marketing, and Resident Services, and by There are always times Residents should call distributing the Eagle Extra to Residents who the Front Desk for maintenance-related issues. have their own access to the internet. Absolutely to report a water leak, or a cottage or apartment fire alarm that’s making a noise This did not bring additional costs and didn’t like the battery is failing. But for routine type change the facility infrastructure. You didn’t work, please start using Workxhub. spend money intended elsewhere. By contrast, the Strategic Plan addresses things Moving forward we will use Workxhub to which require significant investment, multi-year improve our records and tracking of budgets, an increase in debt or fundraising, maintenance and trends to help us make and often it’s about new construction, proper, timely decisions. This will keep upgrades, or other modifications to our systems and equipment in good condition while infrastructure. That takes several years. allowing us to determine when things should be upgraded or replaced. The type of decisions the Strategic Plan process might consider, for example, is We also reviewed some pretty challenging whether our Lakeside campus should be issues regarding upgrades to apartments and expanded. And if so, how many more cottages both by existing and prospective cottages? Or with the Healthcare Center and residents. Our team has offered more Assisted Living, or Legacy Cottages, what structure to unit upgrades using a sliding scale upgrades should be incorporated into daily life, of cost-sharing between the ARC and the and thus our standards of living are raised. resident, defined current options and incentives

4 The Eagle November 2018 I’d like to conclude my point this way. When sponsored, Resident-run activities such as the ARC was opened in 1987, there was no Estate Sales and Traveling Treasures. There’s Chapel, no Wellness Center, no swimming several dimensions here: The generosity of pool, no Bistro, and no built up Lakeside the Residents donating the items, and the campus. There was no Library, or Computer many volunteer Residents who organize and Club facility, or putting green. manage this process. Again, this is impressive to the point of overwhelming. These came about after a need was realized, a plan was made, and the funds, be they Other events I participated in, or gladly noticed, operating funds, new debt, private donations or was the presentation by US Air landing in the Resident Council funds, were spent to build or Hudson passenger Dave Sanderson, who bring something new. What the ARC will came here for a presentation at the invitation of become is part of this Strategic Plan process. our Director of Development, Anna Sweeden, and our Kiwanis Club. The always impressive KS: What are your thoughts about any of the events Eagle Luncheon had the Federal Agent in here this month? charge of security screening at the San Antonio airport, Mr. Charles Honore’, who directs a 10 million traveler per year operation.

Also in October was a Retiree Appreciation Day at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), the Army’s premier medical center. This event became a ‘Homecoming’ for several Residents. MG Bill Moore is a former Commander of BAMC, and COL Carol Huebner and COL Janie Sinclair are both a former Chief of Nursing. Dolores Saenz, Grace Newton and I used the BAMC event to set up a display table, meet prospective Residents, and schedule their visits.

KS: What’s on your schedule this month?

SF: It was a privilege to participate in the 100th SF: November brings to mind the Marine birthday celebration of COL Jack Carmichael Corps Birthday (November 10th) and Veterans (above), and to meet family and friends. He is Day. There are Veterans Day events this year the newest of a growing line of ARC on November 9th, 11th, and 12th. Centenarians. The photo shows us reviewing There’s a New Resident Reception on that wonderful list. Thursday, 1 November, at 4 PM in the I’m pleased to note the teamwork and Auditorium, and that’s another notable connection between our Residents and Staff. Resident-sponsored, Resident-run success. For example, the Golden K Kiwanis invited Info I’d also like to invite all Residents to attend the Systems Director Rob Gilley to explain some of strategic planning education sessions on the significant developments he is bringing Tuesday, 6 November, at 9 AM or 2 PM in the about. ARC Angels had a well-attended Auditorium. presentation by our Director of Nursing, Pat There are some important meetings this Sewell, covering what Residents should know month. Please check with your Resident about the services provided by our Healthcare Council Representative. I’m also looking Center. forward to the solemn and festive celebrations

of Thanksgiving and Christmas. I’ve heard we There are several noteworthy events I’d like to turn into a Christmas wonderland! Have a mention. I am impressed by the Resident- blessed month of November!

November 2018 The Eagle 5 ARC LIBRARY DONATION AUDIO The Raffaeli Room Fahrenheit, Ray Bradbury Library Committee Jurassic Park, Michael Crichton JoAnne Kroll, Chairman The Beach House, Mary Alice Monroe Glenna Solley, Co-Chairman Shelter in Place, Nora Roberts Annette Gohlke, Scheduler DONATION DVD NEW FICTION REGULAR PRINT The Killing Fields A Forgotten Place, Charles Todd Mountain Top Vince Flynn: Red War, Kyle Mills Grand Canyon Where the Crawdads Sing, Weeds Delia Owens Sweet Bird of Youth Holy Ghost, John Sandford Strategic Air Command . Book Club NEW FICTION LARGE PRINT In His Father’s Footsteps, Danielle Steel COFFEE TABLE Leverage in Death, J D Robb Hopi Kachina Dolls, Harold S. Colton American Indian Artists, DONATION FICTION McNay Art Museum The Outsider, Stephen King America’s Fascinating Indian Heritage, Juror #3, James Patterson Reader’s Digest NEW NON-FICTION North American Indians, Philip Kopper The Briefing, Sean Spicer POL R. Brownell McGrew, Brand: Lowell Press Killing the SS, Bill O’Reilly H Life and Art of Jerome Tiger, Peggy Tiger Maxfield Parrish, Coy Ludwig DONATION BOOKS NON-FICTION Audubon Society Field Guide to North DONATION REFERENCE American Rocks and Minerals, The Handy Book for Genealogists Charles Chesterman ANT Gemstones of the World, NEW IN THE LIBRARY Walter Schumann ANT Becoming Mrs. Lewis, Patti Callahan Antique Jewelry, Collector Books ANT Indianapolis, Lynn Vincent & Sara Vladic French Antiques, Ruth Costintino ANT Leadership in Turbulent Times, Depression Glass, Sandra Stout ANT Doris Kearns Goodwin Diamonds, Crown Pub. ANT The World of Antiques, Plantagenet Fry ANT The Great Book of Oriental Carpets, E. Gans-Ruedon ANT The Collector’s Encyclopedia of Antiques, Crown Pub. ANT Collectible Glassware 40,50,60’s, Gene Florence ANT ------Popular Antiques, Please note: Longmeadow Pub. ANT **November 11, 2018 Ranald S. Mackenzie on the Texas (the legal public holiday Frontier, Ernest Wallace TEX for Veterans Day), falls Into the Wilderness, NGS H on a Sunday. For most Rugs to Riches, Caroline Bosly ANT Federal employees, Monday, November 12, Babe-the legend comes to life, will be treated as a holiday for pay and leave Robert W Creamer B purposes. (See section 3(a) of Executive order 11582, February 11, 1971.)

6 The Eagle November 2018 Travelling Treasures October 2018 Overflowing tables of sheets, blankets, Thank You to All! towels, table clothes, napkins, place mats and pillows of all kinds were folded, arranged, and I want to thank the 100 plus volunteers who priced by Nancy Black. made this year’s Traveling Treasures the success it was. During this one-day sale we Don Wilkinson was team leader for the sale grossed $14,844, which will help fund the of furniture which included couches, end many activities sponsored by the ARC tables, bookcases, chairs, rugs of all sizes and Resident Council. We had numerous Team recliners. Wiley Taylor oversaw our picture Leaders who worked tirelessly to make this sales and did research on the various artists to sale a success: determine the value of each picture.

Bob Montgomery (Team Leader) and his Looking for prices of similar items for the cadre of teamsters picked up furniture and many TVs, VCR’s and DVD’s, binoculars, various other donations from the cottages and cameras, and numerous electronic cables, Bob trucked them to the front of the high rise where Hirtle’s team researched the internet and Bob Cairns and his team of movers, with the arranged the offerings. help of the teamsters, transported donations to the selling locations. Almost anything you might want in the way of In the High-Rise Fred men’s clothing was Bangasser (Team sorted and arranged for Leader) and his team sale by Bob Dentino picked up donations and his hard-working from every floor in the team. high rise and distributed them to the selling Robert Rolik headed our Cashier locations. Operation. No sale can work without teams of cashiers and baggers to collect cash and bag The Activity room Team Leaders the sales items. were Arlene and Ross Robinette plus Meg and Larry Luken with a vast group of volunteer Most everyone noticed that we had one of helpers. The Activity Room had a large variety the largest amounts of donated items we can household items from books, DVDs, kitchen remember. The Traveling Treasures teams and items, and outdoor items. the ARC Resident Council want to thank the many residents that donated items this year. In the Boutique JoAnne Kroll and her Without your donations there is no sale. volunteers sold a variety of fine women’s clothes, jewelry, purses, shoes and other The next Traveling Treasures sale is upscale women’s items. scheduled for April 12, 2019, with setup dates th th of April 10 and 11 . Please keep these dates In the Auditorium Dee Hirtle’s volunteers in mind. dealt handily with an avalanche of women’s clothes, sorting, sizing and arranging them for Gordon Armstrong sale. Mary Gustine made sure we had the Traveling Treasurers Chairman appropriate hangers for all hanging clothing in Resident Council Meetings this Session are: the auditorium and boutique. Tuesday, 13 November 2018

Tuesday, 12 February 2019 Marge Canfield oversaw women’s Monday, 8 April 2019 accessories and casual wear (no hangers Monday, 19 June 2019 required). These included shoes, purses, Monday, 16 September 2019 socks, bras, t-shirts, shorts to name a few Monday, 23 September 2019, is the Orientation items. and Election of the Executive Committee for 2019- 2020 (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer.)

November 2018 The Eagle 7 The scene is 1948, in postwar occupied Japan: The 7th Cavalry Regiment passes in review on the square in Tokyo, with the Imperial Palace in the upper right background. First Lieutenant Bob Mesick (at left), commanded K Troop and leads his unit in formation. The constabulary force occupying Tokyo was the 1st Cavalry Division. In 1950, Bob was an amphibious tank company commander. His unit was a lead element of the Inchon landing. As the youngest officer to become a Resident, at age 60, and one of the longest residing Residents, 30 years, Bob Mesick is a Man for All Seasons. He is a former President of the Protestant Chapel Council, and former Chairman of the Resident Council. It is an honor that he shared his insights with me. He welcomes all visitors, please call 646-5648. --- Editor Reminisces: How the Betty Cheever The first document was developed by Colonel Memorial Chapel Came to Be. Ed Walker. As the President of the Protestant Phase 1 – From Concept to Approval. Chapel Council, and working with the council, he prepared a memorandum to the Resident By Bob Mesick Council, dated September 25, 1989 requesting

The chapel is a gift from God. It was ten years the ARC build a chapel. It had a planned four months in the making. This article will look at construction cost of approximately $300,000. that long and sometime bumpy road in three parts ARC management would coordinate all aspects -- conception to approval for fund raising -fund of the project with input from the Resident raising and planning -- construction. Council. There would be no financial assistance from the Foundation. The chapel should seat Hundreds of people participated. They all 125 people. The chapel must be an integral part deserve a thank you. It is very difficult not to of the ARC High Rise. Financing must be mention the key players. They deserve a special developed under ARC management. He thanks. There were four decision making bodies recommended that the Resident Council involved: The Protestant Church Council, The sponsor a survey to determine community Resident Council, The ARC Foundation Board, support for a chapel. The ARC Chapel Project Committee. In February 1990 the Resident Council The dream of a chapel was held by many appointed Colonel Carl Yost, the council people. Possibly the first is from a story related by member charged with liaison to the chapel Margert Bolton. She and her husband, General groups, to head the committee. The result was Don Bolton, the first Chairman of the Foundation a disaster. Board, were on the fourteenth floor of the High- Rise, looking out over a field that is now Quebec. The survey was not intended to be a vote. It Don surveyed the empty field and said, ““I would merely sought to determine resident interest like to see a chapel up there one day.” and willingness to support. What it showed was

8 The Eagle November 2018 a lack of understanding for the need and a The result of Paul’s work was fantastic. His concern for pocketbooks (don’t raise my rendering became the approved plan. Its size is maintenance fee). It also showed a great deal 3000 square feet with an estimated cost of of misinformation was loose in the community. $425,000. The external measurements fit the It was obvious there was insufficient support for space available perfectly. the project. The Resident Council tabled the The Board of Directors of the ARC matter. Foundation, when briefed on October 14, 1992, For the rest of 1990 and 1991 the matter was was pleased to have the plans and the site dormant officially but boiled under the surface. location. They reserved the site for “when funds It became clear that an intelligent dialog could become available”. Two years went by. not take place until a more specific proposal was In the summer of 1994 Colonel Emerick tried made that addressed a site, a design concept again. He offered $5,000 and a pledge for and cost. It was necessary to have an architect $20.000 to a building fund. The Protestant prepare a plan that addressed these needs. Chapel Council could not accept the gift as there This required seed money. was no building fund. They suggested he make In the spring of 1992 as the Protestant Council the offer to the ARC. The ARC Executive considered the budget, a proposal was made by Director, Colonel Stubblefield, agreed to support the Finance Committee to authorize a building the proposal with the stipulation that fund. The Treasurer, Colonel Jim Emerick, establishment of such a fund must have the chaired the committee. The logic was that the Resident Council and the Foundation Board Protestant group had matured financially to approval. support a minister and a growing outreach BG George Webster called a special meeting program. There was room for those who would of the Resident Council for October 11, 1994 to like to see a chapel in the future to donate to a consider the proposal. Major John Macdecy building fund, as is common in most churches. prepared an eloquent fact sheet for that At the annual congregational meeting a meeting. The proposal was defeated. On proposal was made to change chapel Bylaws to October 24th the Foundation Board returned allow a separate building fund. The vote was 35 Colonel Emerick’s check stating that “as a result for, 38 against with two thirds required. No of the Resident Council’s action, it is our Building Fund! decision that it be deferred indefinitely”. Colonel Jim Emerick and Colonel Bob Mesick Almost eight years into the process, Colonel decided to provide the seed money. They hired David Presson called a special meeting of the the ARC architect, Mr. Paul Rheinlander to Resident Council to address the chapel fund prepare a plan. The guidance to him was: subject once more. Colonel Presson had done select a feasible site adjacent to and connected a great deal of study and lobbied all the to the high rise at the third floor, design a simple members of the Counsel in preparation for the efficient structure in terms of cost, construction meeting. March 28, 1997 was a red-letter day. and maintenance, compatible with the style of The resolution stipulated that, “contributions the community to serve all denominations. shall be voluntary, there will not be a fund- It struck us that the World War II-era raising drive, all the money will be in the bank cantonment chapel (at right) fit most of that before construction starts”. It Passed! guidance. They took Paul to Fort Sam to an old End of Phase chapel next to the old BAMC. As it turned out, One. that chapel’s official nomenclature is “Chapel To be 209 man”. It served the two denominations in Continued with rotating services, and hopefully, would give our Phase Two: effort a boost by providing a bit of nostalgia from Fund Raising our military past. It is also a simple, austere and Planning. structure. The last thing we needed was controversy about style.

November 2018 The Eagle 9 and his copilot, Bob Riddick, ejected and were quickly targeted by enemy ground forces when they landed in a swamp.

Glenn assessed the situation and calmly concluded he and his co-pilot were going to be killed. The enemy’s small arms fire peppered around him. It would be only a matter of minutes until the enemy was close enough to place accurate fire on them.

Suddenly an Army utility helicopter descended abruptly to a spot next to them. The door gunners fired at the enemy and Glenn and Bob scrambled to the helicopter. The pilots guided the helicopter into a lift off, made a series of abrupt maneuvers, and then a steep ascent until they were safely out of range. A short while later they were at home base and had a photograph made to remember the day (photograph at top right, next page).

Glenn described the situation as now living a “bonus life.” Already a persistent and Moments Matter author Dave Sanderson determined person once he had committed meets fighter pilot Glenn Nordin, himself to an objective, Glenn found he who’s living a ‘Bonus Life’ focused more on a quality relationship with his wife, Mary, and his family, since he realized he Dave Sanderson told the audience that the had almost been taken away from them. time from takeoff to being placed in an ambulance and sent to a hospital for treatment Glenn’s determination was evident when he of hypothermia was 30 minutes. Everything tried to convince decisionmakers in the Air happened quickly, but for a few moments he Force to dedicate a leadership award to honor sensed he was watching the scene, including a pilot who had served with Glenn: Lance observing himself. Sijan. If there ever was an officer whose actions were faithful to the Code of Conduct, it Afterwards, Dave resolved to focus his life on was Lance Sijan. That was Glenn’s message the most important issues he faced. Already as he went from office to office with a chart successful in business, Dave began to share easel and a large map of Southeast Asia. with others the enthusiasm of living life to the Glenn’s determination was rewarded in 1981 fullest on the most important things. when the Air Force named a prestigious award, normally presented to junior officers and While visiting here on Wednesday, 3 October, NCO’s, the Lance P. Sijan Leadership Award. Dave met with Glenn Nordin (shown above), who shared a similar life-changing, or life- A few years ago, Glenn reconnected with the intensifying experience. pilots who had rescued him. To this day, Glenn, Jim White and Chuck Canfield marvel Over 50 years ago, Glenn was an F-4 at the flying techniques Jim and Chuck used to Phantom pilot in Vietnam, stationed in Da Nang. descend to pick Glenn and Bob Riddick up, While returning to base he was hit by ground and to escape without the aircraft sustaining fire. Although the home base was only 14 miles battle damage. Fifty years after the rescue, away, his plane was going down. Both Glenn Glenn feels he’s still living a “bonus life.”

10 The Eagle November 2018 Crouched in the foreground, then Major Glenn Nordin. Behind him, from left to right, are Army Chief Warrant Officer Chuck Canfield, unidentified Army crewman, Chief Warrant Officer Jim White, Co-Pilot Bob Riddick, unidentified Army crewman.

Over five years ago, at the Vietnam Combat Helicopter Pilots Association reunion, Glenn is reunited with the pilots who rescued him, Jim White, at center, and Chuck Canfield, at right.

November 2018 The Eagle 11 All in the Family

by Karen Wallace

In January 1971, a new and controversial sit- com was introduced by CBS and was broadcast until April 1979, starring Carroll O’Connor as Archie Bunker, the bigoted head of his household in All in the Family. The Bunker family proved to be most interesting and “dysfunctional” in today’s terms.

What does this sit-com have to do with the ARC? Nothing, except the name. There could be or may have been some Archie and Edith Bunkers among us, but this article will not offend but rather introduce a new series about family connections of residents at the ARC.

Our story begins on a summer evening when former CEO, Bruce Furbish, and his wife Connie were enjoying quiet time on their patio. Connie was reminiscing about the many that Lou had worked. Bonnie did silver- people they had met while leading and living at smithing, and taught bead stringing and made the ARC. Connie expressed an interest in the wire craft jewelry. many family connections that currently exist or have existed previously among our residents After 20 years the couple was ready to retire and employees. She thought about the to their home in Tampa, FL. Their retirement connections she knew and began making a list. plans coincided with Bruce’s Army retirement and the Furbish’s plans to retire in the San Since Connie Furbish came up with the idea Antonio area. Connie’s parents were asked to and list to begin with, it is only natural that she reconsider and relocate closer to the Connie and her mother, Bonnie Walter (Connie and and Bruce, which they did. Lou served on the Bonnie are pictured at top right) be the subjects City Council of Selma and Board of Directors of of the first article in this new series. Retama. They were also very active in the dance circles of this area; dancing opened their Following retirement from the Army, Bruce circle of friends to include many past and Furbish came to the ARC in 1996 as Director current ARC residents. of Support Services. Within the year he was hired as CEO. Connie and Bruce lived in Bonnie gained a reputation at the ARC by Garden Ridge at the time. Once the cottages designing, making, and selling jewelry. She is of Lakeside were nearing completion, Bruce known as the “jewelry lady”. Bonnie has been sought permission from the Board of Directors very generous with her work. It was not to move on campus. They sold their Garden unusual to find that she had contributed one of Ridge home and became permanent residents her pieces to an ARC organization for their of the ARC in January of 201l. fundraiser. In fact, this writer was the lucky winner of a lovely necklace and earring set at Prior to the Furbish involvement with the the Kiwanis Monte Carlo night. ARC, Bonnie and Lou Walter, Connie’s parents, were busy building a gem and mineral Bonnie now resides in a delightfully business In Bailey’s Crossroads, VA, following decorated apartment in assisted health care Lou’s retirement from civil service at the Crestway and has retired from her art. Lou Pentagon. Lou did lapidary work, while Bonnie Walter died in October 2016. designed and made jewelry, often using gems [continued Page 13, lower left]

12 The Eagle November 2018

During WWI military training came to our colleges, especially the University of Texas. At left, a poster of a student

warrior holding a shield with the UT seal. Above, the Armistice is marked by a parade of all student soldiers in training.

WWI Centennial Ceremony Planned for Names of the 97 UT students, staff, and Sunday, 11 November, 11 AM, faculty who perished in World War I will be Darrell K. Royal – Texas Memorial Stadium read during the ceremony sponsored by the DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium Veterans The public is invited to a solemn ceremony to Committee, appointed by President Gregory commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Fenves "to preserve within the stadium the signing of the Armistice declaring an end to the history, honor, and memory of all those from hostilities of the “Great War” will be conducted The University of Texas at Austin who have at 11:00 AM on Sunday, November 11th, 2018 served honorably in our country’s armed at the Frank Denius Veterans Memorial Plaza forces.” on the northwest corner outside of Darrell K. Royal- Texas Memorial Stadium (the dominant Lawson Magruder, an ARC resident, is the feature there is shown at below right). Chairman of the Committee.

[All in the Family……continued from prior page]

Connie is one of three daughters of Lou and Bonnie. Her two sisters reside in the Washington DC area. What has it meant to have her parents so close? “It’s absolutely great. We were gone for 20 or so years so we have been very lucky to share these last 20 years with Mom and Dad nearby.”

Connie visits her mother frequently and is available to help her mother in this new phase of life. The relationship between mother and daughter can be very important. What a gift the ARC has provided for both these women!

In the next few months it is our desire to reveal to you many more ARC family connections.

November 2018 The Eagle 13 First Combat

The light rain fell during the night, we saw it disappear Then the day dawned cold and clear We boarded trucks to move up to the front lines Weaving through the alleys of Metz and its confines

The trucks headed south to Chateau Salins Then turned east and apprehension was our opines Military activity increased with each mile Until a halt at Saar Union to pickup guides to show us the aisle

When Omignon was passed there was no doubt We were not far from battle and there was no dropout The trucks slide over the muddy roads, we needed no advisors On each side there were 240’s, 155’s and 105 howitzers

The convoy stopped atop of a bald muddy rise The order to de-truck was our only advice Our stop was 500 yards from Gross Rederching alright The order was given to dig in for the night

The next day the regiment went into reserve but there was an afternoon chill Company A’s PFC Avercamp was the first KIA, enemy artillery did the kill During the night intermittent enemy artillery fire landed S/Sgt Collard was also WIA but he was the only one afflicted

Not far from Rimling, France our first call to attack was the utterance The 1st Battalion took it’s objective with little resistance The next day we advanced through the LD on the attack During this action I was first shot at and almost had a cardiac

I was advancing down a hill into a valley below When I noticed these little specks of dirt starting to show It took about a million of a second to realize and agree A machine gun over 500 yards away was out to get me

There was no sound because of the distance And the spread of the bullet pattern was the evidence I hit the ground behind a log And there I stayed and played groundhog

Shortly thereafter I reached the valley floor It was in defilade and so I didn’t deplore I kept getting smarter and smarter each nanosecond My hair stood straight up, I kept my cojones testicond

A WW II Poem by Charles Rowe Stout, A-345, 87th Inf Div

Copyright December 6, 2003

Editor: Almost 60 years after his wartime service in France and Belgium, Chuck returned to the precise combat locations (above) to reminisce about his experiences and to remember the sacrifices his unit had made.

14 The Eagle November 2018 Art Wall Artist of The Month Susan’s paintings consist of a variety Susan Richmond of pictures including landscapes, people, animals, and others. You have Painting Art an opportunity this month to see the variety and quality of her paintings on By: Alfred W. Bates the Wall of Art. You may find some of Susan Richmond and her husband her artwork likened to that of a David moved to the ARC in September photograph. Enjoy her art by stopping 2017 from Schertz, TX. She first started by the wall and judge for yourself. painting in oils several years ago, and later added acrylics and watercolors. After painting for about 10 yrs, a busy life interrupted her artwork for the next 25 years, at which time she resumed her love for painting and has continued since. Professional training Susan received was a six-week course on mixing colors, creating shades and hues. When asked why she enjoys painting watercolors the most, she said, “It’s faster, easier, and cleaner.” In July 2018, she entered one of her watercolor paintings into the seniors Statewide Art Competition in Austin, TX. Her painting won 2nd Place. (Picture below) This was the first time she had Oil - The Happy Butterfly ever entered any of her art into competition. Although she has sold a few paintings and given some to relatives, her true motivation for painting is for her own pleasure. Other interests Susan enjoys in her spare time includes dancing, genealogy, reading, and traveling. She’s also the proud mother of two children, both of whom are graduates of Baylor, Univ. Four grandchildren are a joy in her life.

(Additional pictures of Susan’s artwork are continued in the full color version of the Eagle Susan with her Award Winning Art - on armyresidence.net ) Joyful Memories

November 2018 The Eagle 15 NOVEMBER ACTIVITIES guest artists as well! Shop wonderful NEW! handmade jewelry, ELECTRONIC soaps, decorative DARTS! items, cards, artwork, Attention Dart clothing, hand – game turned wood items, enthusiasts! An books and so much electronic dart more! Artists it’s not board has been too late to sign-up to purchased and installed in the Activities Room sell your work. See in the High Rise. Reserved game time will be the sign-up sheet on the Activities bulletin on Mondays from 1:30pm – 3:30pm. board. The sale takes place in the High Rise Questions? Contact Resident Gary Auditorium from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Halgunseth at (210) 487-9872. ARC VETERANS DAY BUNCO, CEREMONY – FRIDAY, ANYONE? NOVEMBER 9TH A new BunCo The ceremony will take group has place at 10:00 a.m. in front formed! If you’re of the High Rise flag pole. Immediately interested in following the ceremony, those in military being a part of uniform are requested in the Front Lobby for the group, contact Barbara Mullin at (210) 474- photographs. Everyone is invited into the 0522 or Jo Cape at (210) 646-2805. Auditorium for cake, coffee and punch. Military uniforms or patriotic dress is encouraged. JOIN THE ARC WEIGHT WATCHERS GROUP! SAVE THE DATE! The group meets weekly on ARC CHRISTMAS Mondays at 8:30 a.m. in the DANCE ON FRIDAY, Resident’s Lounge. You can DECEMBER 7TH. join anytime! It’s fun, it’s easy and you’ll make ARC favorites “Two lots of friends in the group. Just show up at for the Road” will play one of the Monday meetings and our Weight all of your favorite Watchers representative will get you started! dance tunes and some holiday selections from

CONVERSATIONAL 7:00pm to 9:00pm! Enjoy special holiday SPANISH EXPANDS AT desserts and egg nog. Purchase wine, beer THE ARC in November! and soft drinks on account. We’ll now be offering Conversational Spanish I ANNUAL ARC “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS (for beginners) and Conversational Spanish II ENTERTAINMENT” starts after (intermediate level). See the Activities bulletin Thanksgiving! board for the schedule and to sign-up! Between Thanksgiving and ARC ARTS & CRAFTS SALE – THURSDAY, Christmas we’ll NOVEMBER 15TH! have 12 different Get your holiday groups come and shopping list together entertain you! and come to this From the USAA Concert Band to the River City annual sale of Bell choir, you’re sure to be in the Christmas wonderful hand-made spirit! The schedule will be coming to your items from Resident artists, crafters and their mailboxes soon so you won’t miss a thing!

16 The Eagle November 2018 Christmas Decorating Committee/ Room shrouded in myth, Closures embedded in Thanksgiving Day feasts. A The annual Christmas decorating of the ARC documentary film by High Rise is set to begin mid -November. This award-winning director Ric will affect clubs that meet in these rooms Burns, The Pilgrims during the closure. chronicles the deep For decoration SET-UP, note the following history, origins, and critical closures: first decade of the first • Tuesday, 13 November - Tuesday, permanent English colony 20 November. ACTIVITIES ROOM will in New England. be closed completely during this time. Bingo organizers, card groups, 11/13/18 - PBS documentary “The Pilgrims ” knitters, sewers and artists needing Part Two (Approx. 60 min.) supplies stored in Activities room during this time will need to remove 11/20/18 – PBS them PRIOR to Tuesday the 13th. documentary “The Supplies will not be accessible Gilded Age” Part One during the closure. Thank you for (Approx. 60 min.) The your help! Gilded Age presents a compelling and complex • Friday, 16 November - Saturday, 17 story of one of the most November. CRESTWAY convulsive eras in AUDITORIUM will be closed. American history. In the For decoration TAKE-DOWN, note the closing decades of the following closures: nineteenth century, the • Wednesday, 2 January – Tuesday, 8 U.S. population doubled in the span of a single January the ACTIVITIES ROOM will be generation, national wealth expanded, and two closed. classes rose simultaneously, separated by a • Wednesday, 2 January – Friday, 4 gulf of experience and circumstance that was January CRESTWAY AUDITORIUM unprecedented in American life. will be closed. 11/27/18 - PBS documentary “The Gilded If you should decide to move your group to Age” Part Two (Approx. 60 min.) another room during the closures, please notify Jane in Activities at 646-5305 so that GET YOUR ACTIVITIES CALENDAR! a notice can be placed on the CIC for you in Stop by the Activities office by the photo wall advance. down the hall from the High Rise mail room and pick up a copy of this month’s Activities TUESDAY MORNING Calendar and the Lakeside Theater movie COFFEE DOCUMENTARY schedule. Can’t stop by? Call Jane Winzeler at SCHEDULE ext. 5305 to have one dropped into your Every Tuesday at 9:30am in mailbox. the Activities Room. Coffee ARC EXCURSIONS (Sign-up on the Activities & pastries provided. bulletin board.)

rd 11/6/18 – PBS Saturday 3 - JBSA Retiree Day at Randolph documentary “The Kendrick Club. Bus will leave the ARC at Pilgrims ” Part One 10:30 a.m.

(Approx. 60 min.) th The Pilgrims Tuesday 6 – Lunch at “La Frite Belgian narrative has been Bistro” in Southtown with the Luncheonaires . Bus will leave the ARC at 11:00 a.m.

November 2018 The Eagle 17 Wednesday 7th – Broadway San Antonio • 11:30 a.m. – Complimentary birthday presents “School of Rock” at the Majestic cake in Front Lobby of High Rise Theatre. Bus will leave at 6:30 p.m.

Friday 9th –– S.A. Symphony Classics Series presents “Nature Speaks in Music: Beethoven” at the Tobin Center. Bus leaves the ARC at 7:00 p.m. • 7:00 p.m. – San Antonio Marching Band will perform in the Auditorium th Monday 12 – Ageless Aviation Dream Flights th at Stinson Municipal Airport. Bus will leave at Tuesday 13 – Speaker 8:15 a.m. Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. in Auditorium. A great Tuesday 13th - Lunch at “P.F. Changs” with speaker and an original the Luncheonaires. Bus will leave the ARC at creation by the Executive 11:00 a.m. Chef. Contact Resident Kevin Scott for reservations at 210-646-5820 th Friday 16 – S.A. Symphony Classics Series or [email protected]. presents “Akiko Fujimoto and Eric Gratz” at the Tobin Center. Bus leaves the ARC at 7:00 Wednesday 14th – “A Night p.m. in New Orleans” with the Jazz Protagonists featuring th Monday 19 - Lunch at “Cappy’s” in Quarry saxophone player Pierre Market with the Luncheonaires. Bus leaves Poree at 7:00 p.m. in the ARC at 11:00 a.m. Auditorium. Courtesy of

Monday 26th - Lunch at “Silo Elevated Residents Al and Lynn Hoppe! Cuisine” in Austin Hwy. with the Beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for Luncheonaires. Bus leaves the ARC at 11:00 purchase on account. a.m. Thursday 15th – ARC Arts & Crafts Fair at

IN-HOUSE ACTIVITIES 9:00 a.m. in Auditorium. Holiday shopping Thursday 1st – until 1:00 p.m! Please see notice page 16.

Newcomer’s Reception Thursday 15th – Tom Jackson at 7:00 p.m. in at 4:00 p.m. in the Auditorium. Historical entertainer Tom Auditorium. Everyone is Jackson will do a presentation on "The History invited! of Thanksgiving: From Henry VIII to FDR."

nd Friday 2 – Shingles Shot THANKSGIVING DAY Thursday 22nd Clinic at 1:00 p.m in Dining Services will serve a delicious Auditorium. Get details and Thanksgiving buffet from 11:00 a.m. – 3 p.m. in sign-up on Activities bulletin the Main Dining Room and the Auditorium. board. Awesome buffet, plus live music. Groups of 6

Friday 9th – ARC Veteran’s Day ceremony at or more require reservations. Please contact 10:00 a.m. in front of the High Rise flagpole. Rachel Haloot at 210-646-5325.

In the case of rain it will be held in the “ 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Auditorium. Please see Page 16 notice. ENTERTAINMENT” begins in November!

Saturday 10th • Tuesday 27th – USAA Concert Band – Happy at 7:30 a.m. in Auditorium. Birthday U.S. Marine Corps! • Friday 30th – UTSA Classical Guitar Sextet at 7:00 p.m. in Auditorium.

18 The Eagle November 2018 The Guernsey Patton (1970) Literary and This is the classic. Potato Peel Winner of seven Society (2018), TV- Oscars (although 14, 1 hr., George C. Scott In 1946, a writer refused his Best researches and Actor award). 2 writes a book about hrs. 50 min. Rated the wartime PG. Due to the experiences of the length of this film, English living on the there will be a Channel Island, short intermission. Guernsey, which had Refreshments will been occupied by be served courtesy the Germans. of the Resident Movie Committee. Three Identical Arthur (1981) PG, 1 Strangers (2018) hr., 37 min. The title PG-13, 1 hr., 36 min. character, Arthur, New York, 1980: (Dudley Moore) is a three complete pampered playboy strangers destined to inherit accidentally $750 million if he discover that they marries Susan (Jill are identical triplets, separated at birth. Eikenberry), who is Anything more his family’s choice. would require a This film won two spoiler alert. Oscars! Best Drama, Supporting Actor, Documentary. Best Original Song.

Mamma Mia! Here LAKESIDE MOVIE SCHEDULE—NOVEMBER We Go Again! (2018) PG-13, 1 hr., Friday, 2 November, 1:30 PM: The Guernsey 54 min. Probably Literary and Potato Peel Society. better than the Friday, 9 November, 1:30 PM: Patton. original Mamma Mia! of 2008, this Friday, 16 November, 1:30 PM: Three Identical sequel continues Strangers. the original Saturday, 17 November, 1:30 PM: Arthur. storyline with exuberance. Which Wednesday, 28 November, Dinner and a Movie: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. one of you three guys is Sophie’s Friday, 30 November, 1:30 PM: Mamma Mia! Here dad? We Go Again.

November 2018 The Eagle 19 COL Cantu’s key assignments include the S3 (Operations), 1st Battalion, 35th Armor, and the S3 (Operations) for 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division. COL Cantu deployed to Iraq during this period. In February 2010, he was assigned to the United States Northern Command J35 (Future Operations) as a Homeland Defense specialist.

From June 2012 to June 2014, COL Cantu commanded the 1st Battalion, 35th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division. From June 2014 to July 2015, he was assigned as the Deputy Chief of Staff, G3 of the 1st Armored Division. From July 2015 to June 2016, he attended the United States Army War College. From July 2016 to June 2017, he held the position of Chief of Staff to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications, Resolute Support November Eagle Luncheon Speaker is Mission stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan. From Colonel Roman Cantu, Commander, August 2017 until May 3, 2018, COL Cantu held 5th Recruiting Brigade, the position as the G5 (Future Plans) for United US Army Recruiting Command States Army South.

All Residents are invited to a luncheon on The 5th Recruiting Brigade is the center of Tuesday, 13 November, 11:30 AM to 1 PM, in Army recruiting activities for an area stretching the Auditorium. COL Roman Cantu (above), the from the Great Plains to California. The brigade Commander, 5th Recruiting Brigade, will review is tasked with the recruiting mission in all or the current Recruiting environment, the part of 14 states, including Arkansas, Arizona, Brigade’s mission of recruiting the “next California, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Greatest Generation” into our Nation’s service, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and share ways both active and retired senior Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming. leaders can assist in meeting recruiting goals. The brigade has seven recruiting battalions

COL Cantu graduated from Mission High divided into 48 companies and 283 stations. School in 1989, the University of Texas, Pan Recruiting battalion headquarters are located in American in 1994, and earned a commission as Dallas, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Mo., an Armor Officer. Oklahoma City, Phoenix and San Antonio.

Executive Chef Julian Flores has created another superb meal. Beginning with House Garden Salad with House Dressing, an entrée of Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Boursin and Walnuts, Dressed with Rum Cream Sauce, with sides of Buttered Asparagus, Cranberry Wild Rice, dessert of Spice Cake with Carmel Sauce, and Coffee, Iced Tea, and Ice Water. All for an $8 charge to your meal account.

Reservations are required and go quickly. Please make Reservations now. Please contact Kevin Scott at (210)-646-5820, or email [email protected]. Thank you!

November 2018 The Eagle 20

Whether you’re celebrating in New York City or San Antonio, Texas, New Year’s Eve follows a pretty similar script: People dress up in their best duds, break out the bubbly and sing "Auld Lang Syne".

Here at the ARC you will have two venues to celebrate the New Year.

AUDITORIUM, 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm (No Sign Up Sheet)

Pay as You Go Dancing Food Bar Service • Drugstore • Shrimp Cocktail • Champagne Cowboys • Chicken • Wine • 5 piece band Drummies • Beer • Asst. Finger • Sodas Sandwiches

SKY LOUNGE, 10:00 – midnight ( Room capacity 75 people – Sign Up Sheet)

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION soldiers. The Tsarina rejected the offer. “SOLDIERS OF THE KING” Britain would have to look elsewhere. THE BRITISH ARMY IN AMERICA Part III: King George’s Mercenaries George III, like his grandfather and father before him, was originally from the German by Mike Huebner House of Hanover. Even after ascending to the British throne, the Georges maintained At the height of the French and Indian War close ties through family and marriage to (as the Seven Years War of 1756 -1763 was Hanover and a number of other German known in America), the British Army numbered principalities, duchies, kingdoms, and over 200,000 men, with 30,000 British regulars independent states. Each of those rulers deployed to North America. With the end of maintained an independent army, and some that war in 1763, those numbers had declined were eager to entertain cash offers for the until, on the eve of the war with the American service of their troops. colonies, the strength of the British Army was less than 40,000 men. Fewer than 10,000 of Prussia, the most powerful German state and those troops were in North America, most in the one with the largest, most professional Canada or in garrison in the major east coast army, was George’s first choice. But Frederick cities (Boston, New York, and Philadelphia). the Great, the King of Prussia, rebuffed The rest were stationed in isolated outposts Britain’s offer. throughout the Great Lakes and along the Mississippi River, with some in Florida and the Gulf Coast.

In August of 1775, several additional regiments were authorized to bring the strength of the Army up to 55,000, but Parliament was only willing to go so far to increase the size of the Army. Even with the additional forces, Britain could not fight an expanding war in North America and meet its other world-wide commitments. Significant forces had to remain on duty in England, Scotland, and Ireland, while others manned remote garrisons in the East and West Indies, in Gibraltar, and elsewhere. The war in American could not – nor did it ever – command the total commitment of Britain’s military forces, especially after France, the Netherlands, and Spain entered the conflict.

To try to meet manpower demands, the British government turned to an oft-used remedy of most of the European powers: “mercenaries.” Decades of European warfare had left thousands of trained soldiers and The first deal was made with the Duke of battle-experienced officers looking for Brunswick for about 4,000 troops at a rate of opportunities to ply their trade. And many seventeen pounds sterling per head and an nations were more than willing to “rent out” a annual “bonus” to the Duke of more than portion of their armies to serve another nation. 11,000 pounds. Of course, the individual soldiers saw none of that money, drawing only Britain first approached Catherine the Great the basic British private’s pay. of Russia with an offer to “hire” 20,000 Russian

22 The Eagle November 2018 British officers, with typical British chauvinism, were often critical of their German “allies.” But the German officers were highly professional and competent, some of them assuming key command positions over both German and British troops on several occasions.

American troops initially feared and despised the Hessians, seeing them as little more than “hired guns” with no real stake in the war. For their part, the Hessians, at first, had little Artwork celebrating a Hessian Regiment respect for the amateur American troops. Over time, however, they came to understand and Shortly thereafter, a deal was offered to respect American soldiers and the “American Frederick of Hesse-Cassel for 12,000 men at way of war.” the same per man rate as that for Brunswick (although Frederick held out for a personal [Note: The British Army employed a bonus of 100,000 pounds). As Hesse-Cassel significant number of other forces that could be provided the largest contingent for the British characterized as “mercenaries” – the Loyalists. Army, all of Britain’s German mercenaries were John Adams famously wrote that one-third of usually referred to as Hessians. Later, similar Americans were Patriots, one-third remained contracts were made with other smaller loyal to the Crown, and one-third were neutral German states: Waldeck, Anspach-Bayreuth, or otherwise chose non-involvement. Of those Hesse-Hanau, and Anhalt-Zerbst. who were Loyalists (or Tories), it is estimated that some 15,000 may have served in Loyalist Nearly 30,000 German mercenaries would militia units or Loyalist provincial regiments serve with the British Army in America during established by the British Army. the Revolutionary War. Some 7,500 would give up their lives: 1,200 on the field of battle, Among the more famous (or, in some cases, another 6,300 from disease and non-battle infamous) of the many Loyalist regiments were injuries. Major Robert Roger’s Rangers, Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton’s British Legion, Almost 5,000 of the German soldiers would Major Patrick Ferguson’s American Volunteers, stay in America after the war. Many of those and the Loyal American Regiment. One of the were prisoners of war or deserters, lured by Loyalist units deemed most odious by Congressional offers of fifty acres of land. American Patriots was the American Legion – Others deserted at the first opportunity, never commanded, ironically, by Benedict Arnold intending to return to Europe, looking only for following his 1780 treason. But that’s another free passage to the New World and an escape story . . . from poverty and mandatory military service. Of course, Britain’s Native American allies By most accounts, Hessian soldiers could be seen as another type of “mercenary.” performed credibly on the battlefield, although But that, too, is another story for another time.

November 2018 The Eagle 23 Continuation – Art Wall Artist of the month, Susan Richmond.

Acrylic – Snowy Arrival at Church

Oil - Susan's Dad

Oil – Passion Acrylic - Burch Tree

24 The Eagle November 2018 Continuation – Art Wall Artist of The Month, Susan Richmond

Watercolor - A Lighthouse

Oil – Grand Canyon

Watercolor - Santa's Boots

Watercolor - Warrior Watercolor – Cow November 2018 The Eagle 25

Pershing could be ruthless with senior commanders he felt had not measured up. During the “pause,” he relieved at least four division commanders along with one corps commander. But he was equally demanding of himself. He finally accepted that he could not be the A.E.F. commander-in-chief – with the strategic, diplomatic, and logistical responsibilities involved – and still manage the tactical battle. But now, with First and Second Armies under Major Generals Hunter Liggett and Robert Bullard, Pershing could step back – to some extent – and allow them to manage the battle.

The “operational pause” had provided time to sort out the logistics, although traffic congestion behind the lines would never be fully resolved – and many units were still going into battle short of food, water, and ammunition. The medical service was still having trouble getting the wounded back to the field hospitals, as well as WORLD WAR I CENTENNIAL coping with a growing number of influenza OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 1918 cases. MEUSE-ARGONNE: PART II THE ELEVENTH HOUR Between 14 and 30 October, Pershing ordered limited attacks to position his forces for by Mike Huebner the major offensive scheduled for 1 November. Early that morning, American artillery opened [Last month we looked at the opening phase up on the German lines with high explosives of the Meuse-Argonne offensive, the largest and gas shells. At 5:30 a.m. the assault American operation of the war. While limited battalions attacked, breaking through the advances were made in the first few days, the German lines in numerous locations. Most of offensive had subsequently stalled. General the first day objectives were achieved, and Pershing had ordered an “operational pause” some units advanced several miles. German to reorganize his forces, get the logistics defenses were still formidable, but the German straightened out, and bring fresh, more Army was beginning to feel the strain. The experienced divisions into the line. We pick up German spring offensives had cost them more the story . . .] than one million casualties; there were few replacements available now to fill depleted divisions.

26 The Eagle November 2018 a suicide mission. Replacement troops were now refusing to obey orders and move into the front lines. Riots had broken out in major cities.

When the Kaiser went into exile at Spa, in Belgium, the new civilian government of Germany put out “peace feelers,” seeking terms for an end to the war. Allied leaders, both civilian and military, were eager to end the war, but could not agree on just how the war should end and the terms to impose on Germany.

Pershing (at left) opposed any premature armistice or cease fire that would allow the German Army to return to Germany with flags flying, able to claim they had not been beaten on the battlefield. He argued: “I believe the complete victory can only be obtained by continuing the war until we force unconditional surrender from Germany, but if the Allied Governments decide to grant an armistice, the terms should be so rigid that under no A.E.F. headquarters had issued new “Combat circumstances could Germany take up arms Instructions” just before the renewed offensive again.” began; just how effective those instructions were is still a subject of debate, given the President Wilson’s advisors were outraged limited time for re-training. Battle experience that Pershing, a military officer, albeit a was probably more valuable than a training commander-in-chief with almost unlimited manual put out by headquarters. But the powers, had stepped into what was, to them, a coordination between artillery and infantry was political issue. Newton Baker, the Secretary of much improved, and troops had learned – by War, prepared a letter of reprimand; Wilson experience – how to attack and neutralize elected not to send it, but made it clear to machine gun nests and enemy strongpoints. Pershing that any decisions on war or peace would rest with the political leadership. The German Army began a general retreat all across the front. Pershing ordered Bullard’s On 8 November, a German civilian Second Army into the battle. In Flanders, the delegation met with a French and British British Army, after three long years, had finally military delegation, headed by Marshal broken through the German lines and was Ferdinand Foch, to discuss the terms of an advancing rapidly. The French and Belgians, armistice. Neither Pershing nor any other too, were making significant progress. The Americans were present. Foch demanded an end seemed to be at hand. immediate end to the fighting with no other terms. The Germans waffled, claiming they Germany now stood alone. Her allies had had to consult with officials in Berlin. But with fallen, one by one. Bulgaria had already the formal abdication of the Kaiser on 9 requested an armistice on 29 September; the November, the German officials felt they had Ottoman Empire had collapsed on 30 October; no option but to accept. At 2:05 a.m. on 11 the Austro-Hungarian Empire had sued for November, in a railway car on a siding near peace on 3 November. German sailors at Compiegne, France, the German delegation Wilhelmshaven and Kiel mutinied on 3 signed the armistice, to take effect at 11:00 November, refusing to sail on what they saw as a.m. that same day.

November 2018 The Eagle 27 Troops of M Company, 6th Regiment, 5th Infantry Division celebrate after hearing the terms of the Armistice.

Pershing, fearing that anything could happen were doing the same. Non-fraternization had to delay or derail the armistice and give the been ordered, but some soldiers did meet in Germans time to establish stronger defensive the middle of no-man’s land to shake hands, positions, ordered his Army commanders to exchange little mementos, or just talk. For keep attacking up until the last minute. Some most, Americans and Germans alike, they officers followed the orders, sending their men were simply relieved that the fighting was over, into battle even knowing the armistice was just glad to be alive. near. Others quietly ignored the orders and told their men to “stand down.” But soldiers Standing before a map showing the final were killed and wounded in the final hours and dispositions of the armies at 11:00 a.m. on the even minutes before the armistice took effect. 11th day of the 11th month, Pershing reportedly The dead would be part of the 26,277 killed mused: “I suppose our campaigns are ended, during the Meuse-Argonne battle. but what an enormous difference a few more days would have made.” He later elaborated As the minutes wound down, the guns began on his opposition to the armistice: “If they had to stop firing all across the front. No one is given us another ten days, we would have sure just which artillery battery fired the last rounded up the entire German Army, captured round, although several units subsequently it, humiliated it. What I dread is that Germany made claims to that effect. At the stroke of doesn’t know she was licked. Had they given 11:00 a.m., the guns went silent. The “War to us another week, we’d have taught them.” End All Wars” had finally stopped. There were those who claimed, perhaps There was little cheering from the men in the apocryphally, that Pershing later said: “We are trenches, no great outbursts of emotion. Men going to have to come back and do this all over just stood up where they were and stared again in another twenty years.” across the lines to where the German troops

28 The Eagle November 2018 Retired Uniformed Service Members

As you've probably already heard, on December 31, 2018 the Defense Health Agency's TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) will end. Don't worry! You can enroll in dental coverage for next year under the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Retired uniformed service members and their families who were eligible for TRDP are eligible for FEDVIP dental coverage, effective January 1, 2019. You are also eligible for FEDVIP vision coverage, as long as you are enrolled in a TRICARE health plan.

You will not be automatically enrolled in a FEDVIP dental or vision plan for 2019. You must enroll during the Federal Benefits Open Season. Open season is almost here!

The 2018 Federal Benefits Open Season (open season) begins on November 12 and runs through December 10, 2018. This is the first opportunity for you to enroll in FEDVIP. Don't miss your opportunity to enroll!

You must enroll at BENEFEDS.com during the upcoming Federal Benefits Open Season if you'd like dental and/or vision coverage next year, effective January 1, 2019.

Add this open season reminder to your calendar!

November 12—December 10, 2018 (ET)

Premium payment: Once you enroll in FEDVIP, we'll automatically set up an allotment with your pay provider to pay your premiums post-tax. In the event that you do not have enough available funds or allotments to cover the cost, we'll default your payment method to a recurring electronic funds transfer (EFT), which we refer to as an automatic bank withdrawal (ABW).

Key dates

Nov. 12–Dec. 10, 2018 (ET) Federal Benefits Open Season

Jan. 1, 2019 2019 FEDVIP plan year begins

Link to Information: https://tricare.benefeds.com/InfoPortal/containerPage?EventName=retirees&ctoken=ej8DscVK

30 The Eagle November 2018 WORLD WAR II: 75 YEARS AGO Admiral Chester Nimitz, Commander-in-Chief, TARAWA: NOVEMBER 1943 Pacific Ocean Areas Command, was now HARD LESSONS LEARNED ready to begin that offensive, beginning with the Gilbert Islands. by Mike Huebner The main Japanese bases in the Gilberts WAR PLAN ORANGE, the pre-war blueprint were on the atolls of Tarawa and Makin. Of for a possible war with Japan, had called for the two, Tarawa was the most heavily the U.S. Navy to take the lead in advancing defended. The main island of the atoll, Betio, across the central Pacific, capturing or isolating was only two and one-half miles long and 800 enemy bases in the various archipelagoes yards wide. But 5,000 Japanese naval infantry enroute to the Japanese Home Islands. troops (roughly equivalent to U.S. Marines)

November 2018 The Eagle 31 manned the defenses, behind more than 200 on Tarawa, had only seventy-five amtracs guns (including several eight-inch naval guns available. Another fifty were found and that had been captured at Singapore in delivered just hours before the assault. But February 1942). most of the troops would have to wade ashore from the outer reef if the landing craft could not Of even greater concern, though, was the get across. coral reef surrounding Betio. No one knew for certain just how deep the water was over the During the preliminary planning for the reef, even at high tide. Would landing craft be assault, the commander of the landing forces, able to cross the reef to land the troops directly Marine Major General Holland Smith, on the beach? Or would the troops be forced requested an extended air and naval to disembark at the reef and have to wade bombardment of the islands. But the Navy, ashore through deep water, all the while under fearing a repetition of the heavy losses fire? sustained during the operations in and around Guadalcanal and the Solomons, was unwilling In the late 1930s, the Marine Corps had to have its valuable carriers and other heavy adapted a commercial amphibious tractor (or ships loiter too long in the vicinity. A lengthy “amtrac”), the LVT (Landing Vehicle Tracked). bombardment would, in the Navy’s view, alert Familiarly known as the “Alligator,” amtracs the Japanese navy and land based aircraft on could cross reefs at even the lowest tide and other atolls within range. As a result, the proceed to the beaches carrying troops, decision was made for a naval bombardment supplies, and light weapons. But the Second of just a few hours duration. Marine Division, which was to make the assault

32 The Eagle November 2018

While many of the amtracs in the first wave made it to the beach, most of the landing craft were unable to cross the reef. Some ran aground, others were forced to mill about just outside the reef, all the while under fire. Casualties were heavy. Marines who managed to get out of the landing craft were forced to wade ashore through several hundred yards of shoulder-deep water. Less than thirty percent of the first wave got ashore; even less of the second wave reached the beach. Reports coming back to the ships claimed the third wave “practically wiped out.”

Of the 5,000 Marines in the first three waves, more than 1,500 were killed or wounded. Those who managed to reach the beach The Marines began boarding their landing huddled behind a seawall made of coral blocks craft just after midnight on 20 November. The and palm logs, a narrow beachhead no more naval bombardment and aerial bombing than 300 yards wide. commenced at 4:40 a.m. More than 3,000 tons of shells and bombs fell on Betio in two Colonel David Shoup, the on-shore and one-half hours. commander, called for reinforcements, but reported that he “proposed to stick and fight it The bombardment was impressive, but far out no matter how tough the situation became.” from than effective. While the defenders were [Shoup would be awarded the Medal of Honor temporarily stunned, communications knocked for his actions on Tarawa, and ultimately serve out, and a few gun positions silenced, the as Commandant of the Marine Corps.] Japanese pillboxes and bunkers, constructed from palm logs, coral, reinforced concrete, and The Marines who tried to land the next steel plate, built low and flat to present a morning faced much the same situation: minimal silhouette, proved almost impervious unable to cross the reef, they, too, had to wade to anything but a direct hit. And the smoke and ashore under fire. Casualties were heavy. dust churned up by the explosions made accurate targeting all but impossible. Throughout the second day, though, some progress was made. A battalion managed to The clouds of smoke and dust further fight its way across a narrow neck of the island complicated the landings. With the island to secure a beach on the northwest shore almost obscured, observers on the ships could where reinforcements could land unopposed. not accurately determine just how far the And, with a long awaited higher tide, landing landing craft were from the beaches. As such, craft were able to disembark troops directly on the naval gun fire was lifted far too soon. the beaches. Late that night, a Japanese radio Japanese defenders had time to recover, man message was intercepted: “Our weapons have their positions, and take the landing craft and been destroyed and from now on everyone is amtracs under fire. attempting a final charge.”

November 2018 The Eagle 33 the airfields in the Gilberts, now in American hands, could provide ground-based air support for the upcoming operations in the Marshalls.

Lessons learned at Tarawa paid valuable dividends for future operations. The inadequate naval bombardment had clearly demonstrated how difficult it was to effectively target and “neutralize” well-prepared defensive works. Future operations would call for days, not just hours, of pre-invasion bombardment.

The one positive that came That “final charge” came the next night: the out of Tarawa was the amtrac. “Without the remaining Japanese troops launched a series amphibian tractor,” claimed General Smith, “it of counterattacks against the Marine positions. is believed the landing at Tarawa would have The next morning, more than 325 bodies were failed.” But there were not enough of them. counted within a few yards of the Marine Planning for future operations called for at least perimeter. Only seventeen wounded Japanese 300 amtracs for each Marine division, with an were captured, along with about one hundred additional twenty-five assigned just for unarmed Korean laborers. Tarawa had cost logistics. the Marines almost one thousand dead and more than two thousand wounded. Tarawa was not a strategic turning point, but it was a first step in the Central Pacific. And it Army landings on Makin had met with little did provide a proving ground to test and resistance, but once ashore the inexperienced improve amphibious assault doctrine, tactics, National Guardsmen of the 27th Infantry equipment, and logistics. Those hard lessons Division faced equally difficult combat. It took would be taken to heart and prove of great four days to secure Makin, with the loss of fifty value in future operations. killed in action and another one hundred fifty wounded. But the escort carrier Liscome Bay, [Note: The first photograph of dead American providing off-shore air support, was torpedoed servicemen, on a beach in New Guinea, had by a Japanese submarine with the loss of 646 been published – with President Roosevelt’s sailors. The Navy was quick to assign at least approval – in the 20 September 1943 issue of some blame to the Army for the loss, Life magazine, twenty-one months after Pearl suggesting that if Makin had been secured Harbor. Following the Tarawa operation, the earlier, the carrier would not have been in decision was made to release additional harm’s way! photos along with newsreels of actual combat footage. Images of dead Marines floating in Controversy over Tarawa was swift and the surf or lying on the beach (above left) came heated. Some senior officers, including as a shock to many Americans. “The truth Holland Smith, suggested that the costly was,” wrote war correspondent Robert operation was unnecessary, that the Japanese Sherrod, “that many Americans were not defenders could have been isolated and left “to prepared psychologically to accept the cruel wither on the vine.” But others pointed out that facts of war . . .”]

34 The Eagle November 2018