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5-1-1995

The Octofoil, May/June/July 1995

Ninth Infantry Division Association

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412 Gregory A~:., Weeh~wken, ~~~... 07087 ' _. .TIfE NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION May-June-July 1995 Volume XlXX Number 3 -_.... "_ ,, - ... . 1;lIaZ&.~.. ~,•• ~...... _ WOR(1';S,,1.;R M';MOR'.I1'J- Taps Sounded 51st Memorial Mass and Service Headquarters for 1996 The 50th Memorial Mass and Service for the 4581 men of the Ninth Infantry Division who died in combat in New York Reunion World War II was held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Worcester, Mass. on Sunday, October 23,1994. The Mass was celebrated by Father Pet~r Scanlon, a curate for many years under Father Connors, and until Father's death always in attendance at our gatherings. His sermon was a collection of reminiscences. He told of many funny things that happened at the rectory that gave us all a chuckle. He also told of Father Connors' kindness, generosity, humor, storytelling, and, above all, his priest­ liness. For the past few years, attendance at our memorial ser­ vice has been between ninety and and one hundred peo­ ple. There were one hundred and fifty at our 50th remem­ brance. I'm sure that many made a special effort to be with us, and it was great to see so many old friends. As our luncheon at the Holiday Inn came to a close, many asked "Will there be a Memorial Mass and Service in 1995?" Of course. There will be an annual memorial service as long as there is a group of us in New England Lindsey Nelson able to make the arrangements, and as long as there are Mets announcer for 17 years men of the Ninth Division able to make the annual pil­ It is our sad duty to grimage to Worcester. We will never forget our honored announce the demise of one dead. of the great "Old Reliables", The 51st Memorial Mass and Service will be held on Lindsey Nelson, sports Sunday, October 22, 1995 at the 11 :00 am Mass at the Commentator and member Immaculate Conception Church in Worcester, Mass. Once of the Ninth. again, we will pay tribute to the 4581 who died in combat In Memoriam in World War II and to those who have since followed. We "Hello everybody, I'm will pray, too, for the men of the Ninth Division who gave Lindsey Nelson". Can there their lives in VietNam. Once again we will continue the be a sports fan anywhere in honorable tradition of gathering to remember our dead this land who has not heard and to pray for a just and lasting peace. that voice? "Lord, God of Hosts, be with us yet, Consider: 25 years of Lest we forget, Lest we forget." broadcasting football for Sincerely, CBS and 12 for NBC, voice of Ron Murphy Notre Dame football for 13 Secretary, N.E. Chapter years, called the Cotton Bowl Classic in Dallas 25 Schedule for Weekend times, 17 years broadcasting Saturday, October 21, 1995: 2:00pm~.c;g.Roomopen the N¥Mets--aflG3years- the The 9th Infantry DiYisionAssociation Saturday, October 22, 1995: 11 :00 am - Mass and San Francisco Giants. He will wake up Rip Van Winkle Memorial Service found time to cover heavy­ in his Catskill Mountains, NY in 1996! 1:00 pm - Dinner at Holiday weight boxing, bowling Rip Van Winkle's 51-year-old slumber comes to an Inn championships, world's bob­ abrupt end on June 4-7, 1996 when Rip is awakened by Room Reservations sled championships, pro golf the rousing welcome of the 9th Infantry Division You must make your own room reservations. The cut­ tour, regular radio shows, a Association's 51st Annual Reunion, at the Concord Resort off date is September 22, 1995. The price is $75.00 plus few movie scenes and Hotel on Kiamesha Lake in the Catskill Mountains New tax. Mention the Ninth Division when calling or writing. recordings. All this with York. ' HOLIDAY INN some baseball in Japan and The convention committee of the host Greater NY 500 Lincoln Street football in Canada. Chapter and the Concord convention staff have been Worcester MA 01605 How do you measure suc­ working for months to ensure that the 51st gathering of 1-508-852-4000 cess?: "Old Reliables," their ladies, and guests will receive the No matter where we are billeted, the Holiday Inn is our American Sportscasters best of the world-famous Concord's outstanding accom­ headquarters, and of course, the C.P. room will be well Hall of Fame, Tuss Mc modations, dining, activities, and entertainment. stocked. Because our mailing list is incomplete, please let Laughry Award by American There will be no strip ticket char~es! The inclusive others know about the Memorial Service. Football Coaches Associa­ price covers three meals daily, with many delicious Please remember that Mass begins at 11 :00 am. tion, College Football Hall of choices, and any special diets, in our own dining room. Dinner Reservations Fame, Ford C. Frick Award, Look over the accompanying particulars and send your Reservations for Sunday's dinner must be paid for in Broadcasters Baseball Hall reservations directly to the Concord Resort Hotel. Over advance. of Fame, a little NBA and the next months the Octofoil will keep you apprised of Deadline for reservations is October 17, 1995. voted top sportscaster by the developing programs of interest. Deadline for refund of cancelled reservations is his contemporaries three If you remember the great time you had at the 1989 October 17, 1995. years running. At his alma reunion in the Catskill Mountains, the Concord reunion Dinner Sunday, October 22, 1995 mater, U. of Tennessee, he is promises to be even more memorable in 1996. Unlike Rip $16.00 per person in both football and baseball Van Winkle ... don't sleep on it ... get your reservations in AMOUNT ENCLOSED: $ _ Hall of Fame. Recently the early! school named the new 2.2 The Free Amenities Include: Name. Address. _ million dollar baseball stadi­ * Different all-star variety show nightly * Never a cover um after him. or minimum * Late night lounge shows * Discotheque music * Little Club for late dancing * Health and Fitness MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: New England Chapter 9th Continued on page 3 Center * Indoor swimming pool * Shopping Arcade * Division Assoc. Valet car parking * Handball, Paddleball * Shuttle bus to MAIL TO: Thomas Boyle, 39 Hall Ave., Somerville, MA Apollo Shopping Mall * FREE Golf on Challenger Course. 02144 In Addition: After dinner on Tuesday, June 4, there will be a one­ hour Welcome Party with beer, soda, pretzels and chips. An open cash bar will be available. And: We will also have a private complimentary cocktail party. Look for more exciting details to come in the next Octofoil. - Your host, the Greater NY Chapter

Frank Haines (far right) is shown with members of his 84th FA as they gathered in New Orleans for the 50th Reunion. Others pictured (L-R) Bob McGoldrick, John Peluso, Walter Ricker, Newton Fields, AI lipton, George Deadline next issue - Oct. 20th Ruitschi and Morris Rosen. THE OCTOFOIL

THE OCTOFOIL Taps Sounded Form 2579 should be sent to Yes, a note ofsadness does THE 9th INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION 412 Gregory Avenue, Weehawken, N.J. 07087 Octofoil Associated Editors filter in, Walter O'Keefe and Daniel Quinn When I closely scan names ofhim and him. 51 sl ANNUAL CONVENTION National Officers Board of Governors I read these names, many 1996 President new to me, TUESDAY - FRIDAY • June 4 - 7, 1996 Henry Phillips Edwin Wisniewski 14002 Hemlock Dr. Columbus, MI But in my mind so plain to erytbing, And 7'h Penn Valley, CA 95946 Al Farrante see e Framington, MA Are countless deeds of Henry Phillips \s lW 'Jl So Vincent Guglielmino, 1st V.P. bravery 114 Charles Street Penn Valley, CA ~ ~@ Floral Park, NY 11001 Adolph Wadalavage With thoughts ofhome and \' Ozone, Pk., NY loved ones, too, Marty Krasovitz G.l 's did what they had to Gibbsboro, NJ do. Pat DeColli, 2nd V.P. 1997 1017 Jackson St. Nicholas D'Agostine Despite unseeming odds, no Phila, PA 18148 Cherry Hill, NJ need for fame. Michael Belmonte Knowing the struggle in­ -CONCORD Ronald Murphy, 3rd V.P. Oak Park, IL volved was not game. James P. Driscoll a 44 Strawberry Lane On they went to crush the RESORT HOTEL Scituate, MA 02066 Holiday, PI. Herb Olsen foe. KIAMESHA LAKE, NEW YORK 12751 Dave Heller Marson Mills, MA 'Twas a fight for loved ones, Judge Advocate 1998 they did know. Ed Hopkins ROOM RESERVATIONS 618 Sumac Rd Whether then or now, 'tis a Highland Pk. II 60035 Metchuen, NJ Ken Meyer price that's paid Belton, TX Thomas Boyle, Treasurer For a world full ofpeace, for Name Sponsor's Name. _ 39 Hall Avenue Phil Bermani which they prayed. Somerville, MA 02144 Daytona, FL Unit (Regt, Co, Btry, etc) _ Owen Salle Joe Rappazini Street Address _ Daniel Quinn, Secretary Decatur, II AI Zenka 412 Gregory Avenue With sadden heart we City State Zip Phone _ Weehawken, NJ 07087 Bellrose, NY Floyd Hennessey announce the passing of Will arrive on Will depart on Lambertville, MI these "Old Reliables" and Date -----=D:-a-:-te---- friends. To their loved ones Published five times yearly. May, June, July - Aug. Sept. Oct. - Nov. Please check any special request: Smoking __ Non-Smoking __ Dec. - Jan. Feb. - Mar, April by and for the members of the Ninth we offer our belated sympa­ Handicapped _ Infantry Division Association. News items, feature stories, pho­ thy. tographs and art material from members will be appreciated. Every May they rest in peace. ACCOMMODATIONS (Please indicate): effort will be made to return photographs and art work in good condi­ --- ECONOMy $258.00 tion. ____ SUPERIOR· An extract from the certificate of incorporation of the 9th Infantry William H. Lape Super Deluxe $307.00 Division Association read: "This Association is formed by the officers Hq. Div. Arty ____TOWERS & EXECUTIVE - and men of the 9th Infantry Division in order to perpetuate the mem­ ory of our fallen comrades, to preserve the esprit de corps of the Ultra Deluxe $360.00 Division, to assist in promoting an everlasting world peace exclusive­ Alexander Clark ly by means of educational activities and to serve as an information 34th FA. Rates are per person, for three nights, based on double oppupancy in each room bureau to former members of the 9th Infantry Division. from after lunch on Tuesday to after lunch on Friday, and include 3 meals daily. Copy must be received on or before the 15th of each month to Clinton Geiser guarantee publication of the 20th. Daily rate for third or fourth person in same room with two adults: -Se€-eOO-G1as&Postage paid at Union--CitY,nN-.J.n~-andadditional H_CQ. 39tbln/ offices. Child 0-2 yrs. of age $18.00 POST MASTER: Send address changes to 412 Gregory Avenue, Robert Johnson Child 3-12 yrs. of age $38.00 Weehawken, N.J. 07087. Service Co. Child 13-18 yrs. of age $58.00

Dr. G. Floyd Adult over 18 is 80% of the Double Occupancy rates quoted above. C Co. 9th Medics One Night Stay (subject to availability)... $20.00 above daily rate.

NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIAnON Howard Gearhart, Sr. Names of additonal persons and ages: Total of persons _ MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION G.s. (next ofkin)

Dan Quinn, National Secretary, 9th Infantry Division Assn. 412 Charles A. Gerard 9th Infantry Division Association 51 st Annual Convention Gregory Ave., Weehawken, New Jersey 07087 A.T47Inf Tuesday - Friday June 4 - 7,1996 Enclosed please find dues for: Albert Heath • No Strip Tickets Required NaIIle SeriaI No . • Gratuities and taxes are included in your rate. George Waldron Street Address . 376AA A deposit of $50.00 per person is required to confirm your reservation by May 1, 1996. Refunds will be made only if the Hotel reservations department receives, in writing, cancellation at least one week prior to arrival date given. I was a member of: James V. Ciluffo Deposits are applicable to given arrival night only. Late day arrivals without 47th Inf C Co. notifying reservations department of revision in advance will forfeit first night's Battery Company Regiment 9th Div . deposit and accommodations are subject to availability. Bill Phillips Make checks payable to Concord Resort Hotel and mail to Convention I wish to sign up for the following: A Co. 47th Inf Reservations, Kiamesha Lake, New York 12751. . The Hotel will honor the same daily room rate to our group for anyone wish­ Ing to arrive three days before or remain three days after the Reunion, subject Regular Member per year $10.000 Wilbur Hovey to availability. 39th Inf Sustaining Member . TRANSPORTATION: Ferdinand Auth Donation Memorial Scholarship Fund O A Btry 60th FA. Bn. Public: Shortline Bus Company (212) 736-4700. THREE-YEAR MEMBER $25.000 Van Service: 800-759-5548. Life Membership $75.000 Limousine Service: 800-762-6212 Ladies Auxiliary Member $ 2.000 Lindsey Nelson Private: Decals 50-each Div. Hqs. From New York City and Metropolitan Area: (2 hours) George Washington Please credit the following chapter: Bridge to New Jersey Palisades Parkway to New York Thruway North. ;, Proceed on Thruway Exit 16 and proceed on Rt. 17 to Exit 105B. On Route " ..--" . L " 42, follow signs to the Concord. Philly-Delaware Valley o Greater New York o Ail From Southern New Jersey & Philadelphia: (3 hours from Phila.) New Illinois o Washington, D.C. o \ Jersey Turnpike to Exit 11 Garden State Parkway North to New York State New England Michigan '- - )~\ \ Thruway North.N.Y.S. Thruway to Exit 16 (Rt. 17W). Proceed on 17 West to o o :' "".'". .. Florida o New Jersey o Exit 105B (Rt. 42). Follow signs to the Concord. Texas Gr South West From Scranton, Pa. Route 84 East to Rt. 17 West to Exit 105B. Follow signs \ ~ to the Concord. From Connecticut: Route 84 West to Rt. 17 West to Exit 105B. Tip ofthe Hat From Boston and New England States: Mass. Turnpike to Sturbridge Ext. Anonymous - In memory of Route 86 South to Route 84 West. Proceed to New York Exit 4W to Route 17 The association is ever Vivienne Morgan Kuhrt - In Mary Maness and also a trib­ Quickway West to Exit 105B (Kiamesha Route 42 North). Turn North on Route 42. Follow signs to the Concord. Estimated driving time from Boston ­ grateful to the members and memory of her brother ute to "Chip" Maness. George Morgan and Eddie 4 1/2 hrs; Springfield - 3 hrs. friends who remembered Air: Stewart Airport located at Newburg, New York. Carriers now operating: the Memorial Fund. Egan. Willard Blair American, Delta, United Express and U.S. Air. We salute you. Car Rental: Major car rental agencies are located at all New York Airports Willard Haas - In memory of Hugh Slusher and Stewart Airport. Driving time from Stewart to the Concord is 50 minutes. B Co. 9th Med. Bn. Buddies John Brandi - In memory of Hoardman Lockwood - In Leo S. Griffin - In memory of Clinton Vaughn, Comer all our departed friends. James M. Droney - In memo­ memory of Lindsey Nelson, Chuck Constantine. Benton and Anthony ry of Ellis T. Huffman and· Public Relations Officer and Cannariato. Rufus Blackwell. Co. Comm. K Co. 60th John former 47th Int., Fort Bragg Arthur Clark - In memory of C. Eisenhauer. to the Elbe. Tony Carmeci and George David Sanner - In memory of Clemens Przybylski - In Marv Levy - In memory of Capobianco. Michael Hoffman. memory of his wife, Cecelia. Matt Urban and Mike Richard McGrath - In memo­ Kauffman. ry of Mike Kauffman, Matt' Joseph Kscenaitis Metro Kowalchik Clifford Barbanell. Nancy CHuffo - In memory of Urban and Lindsey Nelson. her husband, James. Wilbert Skinn THE OCTOFOIL

Taps Sounded The Old Reliables Has A Pennanent Home Continued from page 1 He attended ROTC at At the 50th Annual Reunion at New Orleans the mem-

Tennessf!e and received his bership passed a Resolution which does It••• endorse and commission upon gradua- autho!ize the donation of all writings, books, diaries, rec- tion. It wasn't long before he ollectlOns, recordings, souvenirs, photos, videos and any was called to active duty other appropriate material reflecting activities and and assigned to 9th Division accomplishments of the Division during World War II by at Ft. Bragg, C Company, the Association and its members." 47th. He was later trans- Attempts have failed to set up a Museum collection or ferred to Division as PRO. He memorial at Ft. Bragg, our birthplace. However, the was with the 9th for the Public Affairs Office there did give me a lead to Ft. duration serving in Benning and the Museum Director and Curator there was Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, enthusiastic with the idea of a special exhibit for the 9th Sicily, England, Normandy, Infantry Division of World War II. Northern France, Ardennes, The National Infantry Museum was established as the Rhineland and occupation. home of the U.S. Infantry in 1959 and has one mission: to He possessed a good deal honor the Infantryman and his more than two centuries of affection for the 9th and of proud service to the nation. remained loyal to it through- . The museum offers visitors 30,000 square feet of exhib- out his life. He once said It .space within ~n impressive historic masonry building that, even at,this late date, w~th large, well-hghted, carpeted galleries. The building is that whenever he heard chmate-controlled, wheelchair-accessible and has eleva- mention of the 9th his chest tor to four floors. Admission is free to the public on a President Clinton thanking Henry "Red" PhiIIi t h· popped out and he smiled at daily basis and 110,000 visitors a year come. box~s set of Phillips' Trilogy (stories of EI P~u~~ta~S the feeling that comes with They follow the footsteps of the Infantrymen from the SedJenane, Remagen Bridge). When he left the Ne~ the memories of soldiers, liv- 1607 wilderness of Virginia to the 1991 sands of the Orleans ~union "Red" traveled to the White House to ' ing or dead, who fought for Persian Gulf, from French Charleville Flintlock muskets to P29resent hiS books of the Ninth to the President, on May their country. the atomic Davy Crockett, from victory at Yorkville to ,1995. We first met in a camel events in Vietnam. THE PRESIDENT'S CORNER pasture in the Kasserine Visitors see edged weapons, uniforms, footwear, mess At New Orleans when nominated for this job of presi­ Pass area during the winter gear, firearms, helmets, and vehicles from a 1902 den~,. I reminded my fellow association governors of my of 1943. And f.or over 52 Studebaker utility wagon to the Jeep. It also shows the pOSItIOn as regards opening our membership to veterans years remained the best of equipment of the enemy who chose to test our resolve. of the 9th Infantry Division who served in Vietnam. I told friends, getting together A 100 seat auditorium shows a variety of films and will them that as their prexy I would be doing all in my power whenever our paths cross make available eq'uipment for the presentation of VCR to get our by-laws changed to permit this. Those coming and always keeping in touch. and movie material from our Division. to The Concord next year can be prepared to vote once Intelligent, quick of mind, What does this all mean to us? Well, the Museum direc- again on the issue. excellent sense of humor, tor .g~ve hi~ enthusiastic support to creating a special e~hIbit My reason for this is simple and pragmatic. I think the generous; I cannot recall his sectIOn for our cherished belongings of our time 9th Infantry Division was supremely important to our ever seriously complaining WIth the 9th Division. In a letter to me he states that the Natio~al I~fant.ry country in World War II and it ought to be remembered of anything. And, like all of Museum would be honored to accept for that. That is why I've written three books about its us, he took his share of the histoncal Items of the division to include material battles. At the same time, I recognize that the division's heartbreak. So it was obvi- objects as well as written material, photographs, maps et performance was just as memorable in the Vietnam War. ous that tough times lay ce!era..They will It ••• catalog and guarantee protection of But as an association of 9th Division veterans of a cer­ ahead when a letter arrived thIS umque collection so that the history of this military tain vintage dedicated to honoring our fallen fellows and in 1986 saying that he had organization will be preserved for the future." keeping the memory of their sacrifice alive, we are now been diagnosed as having He ca~tions that they must be furnished, a brief history don~ted dying off. We need a transfusion of the new blood that Parkinsons and arthritis. No of any Item so that the staff can properly the proposed change can bring us. At New Orleans for complaint, just the fact. account for each Item and ensure that its history is not the first time in our Association's history I believe, there On July 31, 1988 Ralph lost. was no one ready to assume responsibility for the Kiner (a Hall of Farner) in Any questions concerning gifts to the museum can be ~o Reunion in '97. One officer of the Association proposed introducing Lindsey at his sent the National Infantry Museum, Building 396, Fort developing a plan for spending down our assets so that induction in the National Benmng, GA 31905-5593 or by calling (706) 545-2958/6762. "the last man when he turned out the light" wouldn't end Baseball Hall of Fame said So, go to work and ship off copies of those photos you up with more than he could carry. I was glad to see the "sometimes when I'm in bed, took sh.owing life in the mud and snow. Do you have a thumbs down on that idea. .~.--+--b-ear.-a.voice.th-a--t-s.a¥s---- G.O-D~"l!.or..~-.o helmet? How about a German ceremo- 'Hello everybody, I'm mal sworQ? ------....------...J..s a matter of fact,Lhe.1\..ssociation now operates on a So~e budget deficit and funds are being taken from reservesTn Lindsey Nelson.' " For those of you have shipped off material to Ft. Lewis, order to makeup the annual operating shortfall. Aside of who knew him, we will Washmgton .wh:n the division was reactivated. As you from raising dues again, which would surely loose us always hear it .. , and know, deactIvatIOn occurred and this material was left some current members, the only way to really correct remember Lindsey Nelson. stranded. Why not ask Ft. Lewis to forward those items to this problem would be to go after the WW II vets of the John E. Eddy Jr. the Ft. Benning museum? 9th who are not now members, but how do we reach 8084 Poplar La. Some ~hapters have precious original guidons or flags them? Most don't even know our Association exists. Our Carmel, CA 93923 of the umts. Why not provide for the ultimate disposition public information effort is as bad now as it ever was dur­ of those souvenirs to the Museum? ing the war and we don't have the incredible modesty of Wouldn't it be great to have your children, grandchil­ our generals to blame for it. SORROWFUL d~en, .etc. as well as historians be able to trace your con­ 37AAA Friends, the only practical way out of our dilemma is to tnbutlOn to the bloody costly record of the US of A pro­ open our doors to the next generation of those who RENEE JANICE WALDRON tecting its precious freedoms? P.O. Box 264 p~oudly wore the Octofoil in Southeast Asia. But, there Boris Raynes Sequel, Calif. 95073 WIll be counterarguments to this idea and alternate solu­ Btry "C" 26th F.A. Bn. .I am writing to you to tions to the problem proposed. I plan to beat the drum 2532 Chelsea Rd. mformyou of this; it's with for a by-laws change in this space of the next few issues Palos Verdes Est., CA 90274 deepest and sorrowful of the Octofoil. Let's be reading the case for the contrary regrets I have to tell you that here as well. my father P.F.C. George Someone at the reunion mentioned seeing a recent William Waldron (a com­ magazine mention of another 9th Infantry Division group rade) has passed on to the which was forming. Presumably it intends to attract Great Battlefield in the sky. Vietnam War veterans. This is not the same organization He left us June 26, 1994 ­ that organized near Fort Lewis and went defunct when and I haven't had the tim'e the Active Army 9th deactivated there. I need additional until now to let you all know. information so I can check out the story. Anyone recall I still, though would like to the magazine with this information7 Date of issue? receive the Octofoil. Please Red Phillips let me know how I still may President receive it. Oh! by the way. I am Renee Janice Waldron­ George's youngest child and daughter. There was standing room onl~. People were standing out m the parking lot of the V.F.W. Post 7263 in Santa Cruz, Calif. and not only were there veterans there but many people from ali facets of life attended.

j... Reunion in New York John O'Grady, left, retiring President of the Association 1996 is shown at the New Orleans Reunion turning over the Members of the 9th Medical Battalion are shown at Concord Hotel Gavel of order to his successor - Henry "Red" Phillips. their Mini-reunion-held on April 20, 1995 at Myrtle Beach, S.C. THE OCTOFO"'L

LADIES CORNER F1.0RIDA CHAPTER NEWSLEITER ILLINOIS CHAPTER NEWSLETTER 50TH ANNUAL REUNION IN REVIEW: To those Florida It is a funny feeling to be Chapter Members, who for whatever reason could not We held our 9th Annual Mini Reunion in Madison, writing the Ladies Corner attend the May 25-28 Reunion in New Orleans, we are Wisconsin on May 5th and 6th. We had a nice turnout, 22 column, not as your pro/lIc!. to report that this Golden Anniversary Reunion in all. Present were the Andersons, Bauman, Vera Treasurer for eight years, was a successful and enjoyable event. This was attested Carpenter, Ted Curliss, Gaertners, Grays, Hellers, Helms, but as just Ellie Taubner, by the compli.mentary lett.ers we received and the many Paulis, Salees and Belmontes. We were pleased to see Auxiliary member, and resi­ verbal compliments received during the 4 days of the Marian Cook, widow of Lester (LV) Cook (60th Inl.) and dent Chatterbox. But, funny reunion. Everything ran smoothly. The workers behind her sister-in-law, Anna Lee Guelzow (widow of Wilbert G. or not it won't interfere with the Welc~m~ Desk were very efficient. They explained the (60th Inl.) my writing as long as you let contents mSlde the colorful 9" x 12" envelopes that were On Saturday morning, we went to the Highland me know how you feel, or personalized with the name of every registered attendee. Memorial Cemetery to hold our Memorial Day services in what you are doing in your Our thanks and credit for a job well done go to Florida honor of Mike Carpenter and all the Members of the 9th lives. For the ladies who did Chapter members Lila and H.F. Stansell; Tom and Carol who died in the war and since that time. Gordon S~unders; not attend the 1995 Reunion Louise and Arnold Tomanek; Ruth and Peter Anderson opened the services followed by George Helm in New Orleans, and our Zimmer; Bertha and Bill Carson; Dorothy and Norris who lead the Pledge of Allegiance. David Heller delivered meeting there, here is what Gr~y; Katherine and John O'Grady; Rosalie and Cliff the Invocation. Howard Gaertner gave recognition to the we did: Elected for 2 terms, Pamter who were of tremendous help to Chairman Phil widows present. A tribute was given to Mike Carpenter unanimously, President, Berman and his wife Barbara and also to Audrey and Emil by yours truly. John Bauman, President of the Illinois Mary McLaughlin, Vice­ De Donato. Chapter presented a floral tribute. We closed with a President, Marline Sanchez, Michael Deresh with the aid of Roger Gartland did a prayer by our Chaplain, David Heller. Present at the cere­ Secretary, Connie Koneski, fantastic job in handling the table reservations for the monies were Mike and Vera's children, Larry and his wife, Treasurer, Carol Saunders, Satur.day Night Banquet. Michael is a real "pro" at this Marge, and their two daughters Linda and Tina and a and Chaplain, Rosalie functIOn as he has handled table reservations for the PBA granddaughter, Alex. The weather was beautiful for a Painter. We were grateful and ?ther fine organizations. Thanks and congratulations change and we are sure Mike had a hand in making it so. that all those ladies accept­ to Mike and Roger for a job well done. He will be missed. ed their nominations, and Much credit for the entertainment go to Barbara After the services, some returned to the hotel while send congratulations and Berman. Thursday Mardi Gras Night was a lot of fun. The others went sightseeing or shopping. We were all back in thanks to all of them for Cajun Dancers performance on Friday Night was a treat time for the running of the Kentucky Derby. After free keeping our organizations to something different. The orchestras for both nights cocktails at the hotel, we all adjourned to a local restau­ afloat. pla!ed well. (Audrey De Donato took some video footage rant for dinner. There were no nomina­ which we hope to play for our membership during our We returned from New Orleans after attending the 50th Mee~ing). tions for Veterans Homes or n.ext Chapter Barbara Berman worked hard get­ Reunion. We want to commend Phil Berman and Emil Groups, so we voted to save tmg the floral piece made, contracting for the choir Donato for a job well done this year as well as their wives money and send our dona­ singers, getting the color guard from the Jackson and their committees. tions next year. Therefore, Barracks for our Memorial Services; handling the details please send in your names for the women to attend the Cooking School MARDI GRAS NIGHT and ideas to: Mary Demonstration/lunch ... plus decorating chores etc. She McLaughlin, Connie Koneski was assisted by her husband Phil, Audrey De Donato and We enjoyed the Mardi Gras night. It was great seeing or Carol Saunders. Our other Chapter members. The Memorial Services were some old familiar faces although many were missing. We Pollyanna was, as usual a very.impressive. Appropriate hymns were sung by the 1st understand the total number present this year was about rousing success, and the Baptist Church ChOir of Chalmette, Louisiana. 450. Representatives of the Illinois Chapter were David Cajun cooking demonstra­ The choir was directed by Mr. Hugh Boswell ... his wife' Heller (DV had to cancel last minute), Prestons, Clarks, tion by Chef Kevin Belton Debra is the Church Organist. Their renditions added McGraths, Salees, Colliers, Apels, Paulis, and Belmontes. greatly to this solemn occasion. The Jackson Barracks at1endln~theLu_ncheoIl~nd CQQkiJ!g_S~p-.9.Ql. was most enlightening and TheJadie£.. - . . Tunny. He could make hiS liv-" {:-olOf'--Guard were precise tn-1hetr-rote-ofpostingand" enjoyed themselves even though there was some delays ing as a Stand-Up comedian retreating the colors. Emil De Donato was the Master of in the transportation. if he was not such a terrific Ceremony with Father Rowan and Dave Heller offering The shuttle bus from the hotel to the French Quarters Chef! Now, if he could only the prayers for our comrades who passed on. Many mem­ was excellent. They ran every hour and enables us to see come to my house and cook! bers took advantage of the free time to see the French a lot in New Orleans. There were many tours available as After 50 years, my enthusi­ Quarters, a stroll on the Riverwalk, or to try their luck at well as boat trips and the Gambling casino. There was so asm for cooking is rapidly the gambling casinos ... or tour the Superdome and liter­ much to see but so little time. waning. New Orleans is a ~lly ~undreds of interesting sights throughout this excit­ The Cajon Dancers on Friday night were very entertain­ beautiful and different city, mg city. Good food .. , served in many fine restaurants ing. They performed and then included the audience to mU~ic fascinating in its architec­ with being played practically 24 hours a day. New participate. The music was very good and we even did a ture and laid back pace, but Orleans IS truly one of America's oldest and interesting little line dancing. a little too hot for me in the cities. Memorial services on Saturday morning were held in long run. the hotel. We had a Color Guard and Gospel Singers. Fr. FLORIDA CHAPTER TO MEET IN ORLANDO: Rowan was present and each Chapter Representative Our Raffle held on the evening of May 26th, was as Remember the dates - Sept. 28 to Oct. 1, 1995. The Place placed a flower on the Octofoil Wreath. It was an impres­ - Marriott Hotel on International Drive Orlando Florida sive ceremony honoring our departed comrades. usual a big hit with the donors and winners as fol­ The Chairman - John O'Grady, 79i2 N.W. iOth St.: Plan~ation, lows: Vase (Helen Holmes) FL 33.322. Phone 1/305/474-2791. Complete VERY COLORRJL or~er won by Dorothy Gray ­ detaIls and mformation to be sent out approximate­ ly 6 weeks prIor. John promises a good program so plan The Saturday Banquet was very colorful. The Ladies 60th Field Artillery; Football Quarterback (Lorraine to attend. There will be an election of new officers at the were each furnished with a mask and the room was deco­ Saturday Meeting. rated with many balloons. The guest speaker was a gen­ Clark) won by Paul Clark of the 60th Regt. Company D; SOUVENIR PACKAGES FOR SALE: Any national chap­ tleman.from the the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce. ter member including those who had to cancei their After dmner, goodbyes were said and the group disband­ Coasters (Lorraine Clark) won by Elsie Linville, Ruth reservations may purchase a souvenir packet of the 50th ed for another year hoping to meet again in New York in Annual. Reunion consisting of the colorful 9" x 12" enve­ 1996 at the Concord. Jordan's sister; Red and Blue Afghan (Carol Saunders) lope With your name printed on it; the 4 page program' The Andersons, Hellers and Belmontes met for lunch in the Memorial Service Program; your name badge, th~ t~ won by Bill Martin of the June discuss plans for the Angola Meeting. It will be 50th Annual Reunion hang-on; a map of New Orleans and h~ld 26th FA Battery A; Blue thIS year on October 17th and 18th. We are trying a other material, by sending a $3.75 donation to Emil J. De mld-~eek Afghan (Carol Saunders) reunion this year. Room rates are $53.00 plus Donato, 3650 S.W. Mosswood Street, Dunnellon, FL 34431. tax, smgle or double. Please make reservations directly to won by Anne-Marie Holiday Inn, 3855 N. State Rd., Angola, Ind. 46703, Phone Lencovich, sister of Betty W.OMEN'S AUXILIARY ACTIVITIES AT REUNION: The ~219) 665-9471. Mention the Ninth. Reservations are to be Roberts, husband is Charles FlOrIda Chapter can be proud of the role played by some m by October 6th. of. the 15th Engineers; of the women during this 50th Annual Reunion. They sold Plans have been made for a cookout at the Gaertners Double Axe Quilt (Ruth chances for the raffling off of a HARLEQUIN DOLL, two on Tuesday, August 1st. More details will be in the mail. Jordan) won by Katherine Head Table Center Pieces, and a Beautiful Porcelain O'Grady, husband is John of American Eagle. The decorating of the Banquet Tables SICKCAU the 9th Recon. Well, I think I was a tremendous feat accomplished in less than 4 hours have chattered enough so I !"uch credit goes to Carol Saunders who handled the fill~ ta~e . We are pleased to report that the Hennemuths are will say care and please Ing of hundreds of balloons with helium gas while fmally back from Florida and Peggy is doing well after her keep in touch, and remem­ Barb~ra Berman, Audrey De Donato, Lila Stansell and back surgery. Wanda Preston, wife of Ted (60th lnf. F. ber please send your mem­ RosalIe Painter worked like beavers setting up the tables. Co.) underwent su~gery and we are happy to report all bership dues to: Carol A handsome feathered mask was placed on each table as wen~ well and she IS recovering with no complications. Saunders, P.O. Box 1584, a 'take-home souvenir' for every woman at the banquet. We Just heard from Lorraine Clark (wife of Paul 60th D Greenville, Tenn. 37744, as I Au?rey De Do~~to and Barbara Berman did an exception­ Co.) .. After n~merous test and an MRI, it was determined am no longer your al Job orgamzmg and transporting 100 women who ~he IS s~ffe~mg from high blood pressure. She is receiv­ Treasurer. attended the Cooking School Demonstration/Luncheon Ellie Taubner mg medicatIOn and improving daily. We also heard that on Friday morning. The men of the Florida Chapter are 85 Smith Avenue Irma Koski (widow of Chuck 47th F. Co.) recently fell and pro~d of you for your hard work and we salute you for broke ~er col~ar bone and femur. She underwent surgery Bergenfield, NJ 07621 makmg the New Orleans Reunion an enjoyable one for to recel.ve a pm and will require more therapy. our membership of The Ninth Infantry Division Assn. Look~ng forward to seeing a lot of our members in Angola m October. From time to time we have to put articles sent in by iInil J. De Donato Respectfully, our members on the back burner because of lack of FL Chapt. Pub. ReI. Officer Mike Blemonte space. As we get older more members are writing sto- 1161 S. Lombard ries that are longer (always interesting) but space in 1996 Reunion Oak Park, n. 60304 our 8 page publication is kind of limited. Please try to Concord Hotel understand, if your letter does not appear in this issue New York we will make sure it does in the following Octofoils. Business Conducted at Reunion

The Ninth Infantry Mountains, the site chosen Newspaper Committee Disbursements Florida Chapter, Ed Hopkins Division Association for the meeting .A first class President O'Grady then Secretary Salary $1,000.00 N.J. Chapter and Al Zanks Minutes of the 178th hotel that will accommodate asked for the Committees Clerical Help 1,000.00 NY Chapter. President Meeting National Board 3000 people with three report and Emil DeDonato of Utilities 1,300.00 O'Grady called for nomina­ Governors meals a day being supplied the Newspaper Committee Postage 3, 700.00 tion from the floor and upon along with nightly entertain­ reported that the follOWing Misc. Expense .480.00 a motion made by Bob The 178th meeting of the ment. Three golf courses, members served with him Supplies 750.00 DeSandy and seconded by Natiomil Board of Governors indoor and outdoor swim­ on this committee: Herb Secretary Expense 1,000.00 Len Tomsonne it was voted of the Ninth Infantry ming, tennis, free valet car Stern Gr. South West and Editors Expense 500.00 to close the Nominations. Division Association took parking. The dates Tues-Fri Texas Chapter, Henry Red Treasurer Expense 360.00 Phil Berman made a motion place in New Orleans, the - June 4-7, 1996. Rates and Phillips - At Large, Marv Octofoil 8,500.00 that was seconded by Bill Hotel Radison, on May 25, details will appear in the Levy, NY Chapter, Nick Accountant. 300.00 Mooty to: instruct the secre­ 1995. The meeting was Octofoil. Dogostino, Philly-Delaware Total.. $18,920.00 tary to cast one ballot for a called to order 4:10 p.m. by President John O'Grady Valley Chapter. The commit­ Chairman Frank Haines unanimous vote of the slate President John O'Grady who read a letter received from a tee recommends the follow­ expressed appreciation to of men nominated by the asked them to stand for friend of Orion Shockly-Co B ing: Providing there is ade­ the six men who served on Committee. President moment of silent prayer for 47th Inf - regarding a quate funds, that the num­ the committee and also to O'Grady thanked Bill Martin our departed members. Belgium decoration. Details ber of Octofoil issues be Tom Boyle, Treasurer for and his committee for their Attending the meeting were will appear in the Octofoil. increased to six issues a the assistance in interpret­ efforts. Board members, Frank year and to be printed on a ing the association's Veterans Awards Haines, Bill Martin, Marv There being no other busi­ better grade of paper. finances for the committee's Committee Levy, Mike Belmonte, Nick ness to come before this Because our membership understanding. Haines com­ Larry McLaughlin of the Dogostino, Henry Phillips, meeting and upon a motion have been experiencing dim­ mented that an earlier pro­ Veterans Awards Committee and Ted Preston. Also pre­ made by Nick Dogostino and ming of their eyes, it is rec­ posal regarding the Octofoil when called upon for his sent were treasurer Tom seconded by Red Phillips it ommended that the type had cost implications which report mentioned that he Boyle, past presidents, Len was voted to: Adjourn the size be upgraded to a larger should be considered by the was the only member of the Tomassone, Walter O'Keeffe, meeting at 5:40 p.m. size. That the Chapter host­ Finance Committee as to the committee present. The Al Perna, Bob DeSandy. Respectfully submitted, ing the National Reunion be cost impact and the method other two members, Adolph Members Trevor Jones, Pat Daniel Quinn given more consideration on financing it. Wadalavage and Henry DeColi, Phil Berman and Co­ National Secretarv the front page. In addition to proposing Santos could not attend the Minutes of the Chairman of the 1996 NY Upon a motion made by the 1996 Budget the meeting or reunion. Reunion Martin Gross. 50th Meeting of the Len Tomassone and second­ Committee reviewed the McLaughlin speaking as the Tom Boyle reported on General Membership ed by Joe Kilacky it was various Funds covered by spokesperson for this com­ the 1994 Lake Placid reunion The 50th meeting of the voted to accept the report. the earlier Treasurer's mittee recommends that and gave a detailed outline Ninth Infantry Division took President O'Grady thanked report and the financial two awards of $300.00 of the expenses and income place on May 26, 1995 at the DeDonato and his commit­ experiences of the most apiece be granted, one to of the Reunion. A profit of Hotel Radisson, New tee for their report. recent two years. the VA Hospital in Tampa, $1484.67 was realized and Orleans, Louisiana. Presi­ The budget recommended Florida and the other to the had been turned over to the dent of the Association John Miscellaneous Committee to the members was for dis­ National Cemetery in Secretary's office for deposit O'Grady called the meeting Mike Belmonte Chairman bursements of $18,920 cur­ Pinelawn, New York for flag in the General Fund. to order at 10:00 AM and of the Miscellaneous Com­ rent income of $11,320 and poles that they had request­ President John O'Grady asked the 187 members pre­ mittee reported the follow­ $7,600 from available funds. ed. sent to rise for a moment of ing members served on this thanked Boyle and his com­ Upon a motion made by Upon a motion made by silent prayer for the depart­ committee with him: Don mittee members for their Bob DeSandy and seconded Bill Coen and seconded by ed men of the Ninth. Lavender, Boris Raynes, Art efforts and a good reunion. by Art Schmidt it was voted Pat DeColi it was voted to: President O'Grady asked for Schmidt, Al Lipton, Aaron Upon a motion made by to: Accept the report and Accept the report and rec­ recess till 11 AM in order for Lubin, Sewell Carson, and Ted Preston and seconded recommendations of the ommendations of the the committee groups to Bill Coen. Belmonte report­ by Nick Dogostino it was Finance Committee. Veterans Awards Com­ meet. They were the follow­ ed that the Miscellaneous voted to: Accept the report President O'Grady mittee. So moved. President ing: Emil DeDonato Committee recommends of the 1994 Lake Placid thanked Frank Haines and O'Grady thanked Larry Newspaper, Miscellaneous that in the future that reunion. his committee for their McLauhglin for his report. Mike Belmonte, Nominating reunions not be held on President John O'Grady report. There being no other busi­ Committee Bill Martin Holiday weekends. Upon the asked the following mem­ ness to come before this Finance Committee Frank recommendation of Boris BY-LAWS COMMITTEE bers to serve as Chair­ meeting and upon a motion Haines and Dave Heller By­ Raynes the committee President O'Grady called persons of these Com­ made by Ed Hopkins and laws Committee. President strongly recommends that upon the By-laws Com­ mittees: Newspaper - Emil seconded by Bill Monty it DiDonato, By-laws - Dave asked these Chairmembers the Ninth Infantry Division mittee Chairman Dave ~~~ise·_so p~rt Heller and Heller named was voted to: Adjourn the ~- Misc@llan@ous Mike ____ they could be. rec­ associati()n becoJDe .. of meetingJil2:.QQ-.P....M.._. __ ognized and after designat­ the -- Nafio-ii-aI- -lrifantry .. fhe~ememb-ers-whuserved Belmonte, Nomination - Bill Respectfully submitted ing a place to hold their Museum at Fort Benning, with him on this committee: Martin, Finance - Frank Daniel Quinn meetings asked the mem­ Georgia. Through the years Marty Gross, Pat DeColi, Haines. National Secretary bers who were to serve on the organization has been Dick Granberry, Jack Collier, Phil Berman reported on these committees from vari­ sending items to the and W.C. Scott. A discussion the 1995 New Orleans Minutes of the ous chapters and those who Museum at Ft. Lewis was held on the Proposal to 179 Meeting National reunion. Berman stated that would like to serve on a Washington, etc. and with amend the by-laws regard­ Board of Governors an extra load of cancellation committee to adjoin and the cutbacks these ing the addition of two more has been received (60 or The 179th meeting of the meet. Museums have folded. The members to the Board of more) because of the flood­ National Board of Governors At 11 :20 AM President Museum at Fort Benning will Governors (from 15 to 17). ing conditions that had of the Ninth Infantry John O'Grady reopened the continue with the traditions President O'Grady called for Division Association took existed prior to the meeting. meeting and again asked the of the US Army. Upon a a vote on the proposal (that place on May 26, 1995 at the Around 500 people were members to rise for a motion made by Phil had been duly printed in the Hotel Radisson, New expected to attend and moment of silent prayers for Berman and seconded by Octofoil). Upon a motion Orleans, Louisiana. The Berman outlined the events our departed comrades. Marty Gross it was voted to: made by Ted Preston and meeting was called to order that were taking place. The secretary Dan Quinn Accept the report and rec­ seconded by Ed Hopkins it A round table discussion at 4:05 P.M. by President read the minutes of the last ommendation of the was voted to: Accept the was held on the Funds of the John O'Grady who asked the meeting held in Lake Placid Miscellaneous Committee. report of the By-laws com­ association in the event of a members to stand for a in 1994. Upon a motion mittee and to vote on same. "Last Man Club." The discus­ President O'Grady thanked silent prayer for our depart­ made by Bob DeSandy and Mike Belmonte and his com­ The recommendation was sion was tabled to the next ed comrades. Present for the seconded by Ed Hopkins it mittee for their report. voted in favor of the change. financial committee meeting. meeting were Ed Hopkins, was voted to: Accept the Finance Committee President O'Grady thanked Bill Martin, Nick Dogostino, Bob DeSandy submitted a secretary reading of the min­ Heller and his committee for bid for the 1997 reunion to Frank Haines of the Al Farrane, Owen Salle, Al utes and instruct the secre­ Finance Committee when their efforts. be held in Ft. Bragg area. Zanka, Henry Phillips, Phil tary to place a copy of same called upon named these Berman, Judge Advocate Bids are usually submitted Nominating Committee on file. members who served with Dave Heller, and Treasurer at the last Board meeting to Bill Martin of the be held on Friday (after the The treasurer Tom Boyle him on this Committee: Nominating Committee was Tom Boyle. Also in atten­ Walter O'Keeffe, Vincent General meeting) so no was called upon for his called upon for his report dance were John Miller, Bob action was taken. report and he gave a Guglielmino, Ed Gill, Willard and he named these men DeSandy, Ted Preston, Len Red Phillips spoke on the detailed report of the Norris, Michael Wengryn, who served with him : Jack Tomassone, Pat DeColi, possibility of a Division Financial Conditions of the and Norris Gray. Tom Boyle Blann Texas Gr SW chapter, Marty Gross, Marv Levy. Museum being placed at association. Boyle conclud­ sat in on the meeting for Phillip Emmons Texas Gr Upon a motion made by Fort Benning, Georgia where ed by stating "once again it adVice. The committee rec­ SW Chapter, Paul Clark Ed Hopkins and seconded the Infantry's Museum are in is my considered opinion ommends the following bud­ Illinois Chapter, Len by Al Zanka it was voted to: get be approved: place. A member from that our fine Association is Tomassone Philly Cel Valley dispense with the reading of California Boris Rayees of in good financial condition. Anticipated Income Chapter and Everett Tapp the previous Board meeting the 26th FA is expected to A large part of this is due to Dues $8, 120.00 Michigan Chapter. There are and the Treasurers report. President John O'Grady make a presentation on the the attention given by our Investments six members leaving the subject at the regular meet­ officer and Board of SSG & CGM :.2,000.00 Board of Governors and the then called for the elections ing being held on May 26th. Governors." Upon a motion Sales , 200.00 committee recommends the of Officer for the coming Marty Gross Co-Chairman made by Anthony Varone Reunion 1,000.00 following replaced them. year, and with the election of Henry Phillips he turned of the 1996 Reunion being and seconded by Milton Total $11,320.00 Ken Meyers Texas Chapter, held in New York spoke of Hyman it was voted to: Use of Owens Salle Illinois Chapter, over the gavel of authority to his successor. the facilities at the Concord Accept the Treasurer's existing funds 7,600.00 Floyd Hennesey Michigan Hotel in the Catskills report. President O'Grady Total $18,920.00 Chapter, Phjl Herman thanked Boyle for his report. Continued on next page THE OCTOFOIL

Taps Sounded The Old Reliables Has A Pennanent Home Continued from page 1 He attended ROTC at At the 50th Annual Reunion at New Orleans the mem­ Tenness~e and received his bership passed a Resolution which does"... endorse and commission upon gradua­ authorize the donation of all writings, books, diaries rec­ tion. It wasn't long before he ollections, recordings, souvenirs, photos, videos and any was called to active duty other appropriate material reflecting activities and and assigned to 9th Division accomplishments of the Division during World War II by at Ft. Bragg, C Company, the Association and its members." 47th. He was later trans­ Attempts have failed to set up a Museum collection or ferred to Division as PRO. He memorial at Ft. Bragg, our birthplace. However, the was with the 9th for the Public Affairs Office there did give me a lead to Ft. duration serving in Benning and the Museum Director and Curator there was Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, enthusiastic with the idea of a special exhibit for the 9th Sicily, England, Normandy, Infantry Division of World War II. Northern France, Ardennes, The National Infantry Museum was established as the Rhineland and occupation. home of the U.S. Infantry in 1959 and has one mission: to He possessed a good deal honor the Infantryman and his more than two centuries of affection for the 9th and of proud service to the nation. remained loyal to it through­ The museum offers visitors 30,000 square feet of exhib­ out his life. He once said it.space within ~n impressive historic masonry building that, even at~this late date, w~th large, well-hghted, carpeted galleries. The building is that whenever he heard chmate-controlled, wheelchair-accessible and has eleva­ mention of 'the 9th his chest tor to four floors. Admission is free to the public on a President Clinto~ t~anking Henry "Red" Phillips for his popped out and he smiled at daily basis and 110,000 visitors a year come. box.es set of PhIlhps' Trilogy (stories of EI Guettar They follow the footsteps of the Infantrymen from the SedJenane, Remagen Bridge). When he left the Ne ' the feeling that comes with ~union the memories of soldiers, liv­ 1607 wilderness of Virginia to the 1991 sands of the Orleans "Red" traveled to the White House =' ing or dead, who fought for Persian Gulf, from French Charleville Flintlock muskets to present hiS books of the Ninth to the President on Ma their country. the atomic Davy Crockett, from victory at Yorkville to 29,1995. 'Y events in Vietnam. We first met in a camel THE PRESIDENT'S CORNER pasture in the Kasserine Visitors see edged weapons, uniforms, footwear, mess gear, firearms, helmets, and vehicles from a 1902 At New Orleans when nominated for this job of presi­ Pass area during the winter den~,. I reminded my fellow association governors of my of 1943. And f.or over 52 Studebaker utility wagon to the Jeep. It also shows the equipment of the enemy who chose to test our resolve. pOSitIOn as regards opening our membership to veterans years remained the best of of the 9th Infantry Division who served in Vietnam. I told friends, getting together A 100 seat auditorium shows a variety of films and will make available equipment for the presentation of VCR them that as their prexy I would be doing all in my power whenever our paths cross to get our by-laws changed to permit this. Those coming and always keeping in touch. and movie material from our Division. What does this all mean to us? Well, the Museum direc­ to The Concord next year can be prepared to vote once Intelligent, qUick of mind, again on the issue. tor .g~ve hi~ enthusiastic support to creating a special excellent sense of humor, My reason for this is simple and pragmatic. I think the generous; I cannot recall his exhibit section for our cherished belongings of our time with the 9th Division. In a letter to me he states that the 9th Infantry Division was supremely important to our ever seriously complaining country in World War II and it ought to be remembered of anything. And, like all of Natio~al I~fan~ry Museum would be honored to accept the historIcal Items of the division to include material for that. That is why I've written three books about its us, he took his share of battles. At the same time, I recognize that the division's objects as well as writt~n material, photographs, maps et neanbreak;Suit-wasmwt­ memQI~bl~ ce.tera..They will "... catalog and guarantee protectIon' of perlormance..w.aslu.st as. inthe Vietnam War. ous that tough times lay But as an association of 9th Division'vetera'ns oCa. cer~­ ahead when a letter arrived thiS umque collection so that the history of this military organization will be preserved for the future." tain vintage dedicated to honoring our fallen fellows and in 1986 saying that he had keeping the memory of their sacrifice alive, we are now He ca~tions that they must be furnished, a brief history been diagnosed as having dying off. We need a transfusion of the new blood that of any Item don~ted so that the staff can properly Parkinsons and arthritis. No ~roposed account for each Item and ensure that its history is not the change can bring us. At New Orleans, for complaint, just the fact. the fIrst time in our Association's history I believe, there On July 31, 1988 Ralph lost. Any questions concerning gifts to the museum can be was no one ready to assume responsibility for the Kiner (a Hall of Farner) in Reunio~ sent to the National Infantry Museum, Building 396, Fort in '97. One officer of the Association proposed introducing Lindsey at his developmg a plan for spending down our assets so that induction in the National Benning, GA 31905-5593 or by calling (706) 545-2958/6762. So, go to work and ship off copies of those photos you "the last man when he turned out the light" wouldn't end Baseball Hall of Fame said up with more than he could carry. I was glad to see the "sometimes when I'm in bed, took showing life in the mud and snow. Do you have a GO-Devil or AAA-O helmet? How about a German ceremo­ thumbs down on that idea. I hear a voice that says As a matter of fact, the Association now operates on a 'Hello everybody, I'm nial sword? So~e of you have shipped off material to Ft. Lewis, budget deficit and funds are being taken from reserves in Lindsey Nelson.' " For those order to makeup the annual operating shortfall. Aside of who knew him, we will Washmgton .wh:n the division was reactivated. As you know, deactivatIOn occurred and this material was left from raising dues again, which would surely loose us always hear it ... and some current members, the only way to really correct remember Lindsey Nelson. stranded. Why not ask Ft. Lewis to forward those items to the Ft. Benning museum? this problem would be to go after the WW II vets of the John E. Eddy Jr. 9th who are not now members, but how do we reach 8084 Poplar La. Some ~hapters have precious original guidons or flags them? Most don't even know our Association exists. Our Carmel, CA 93923 of the umts. Why not provide for the ultimate disposition public information effort is as bad now as it ever was dur­ of those souvenirs to the Museum? ing the war and we don't have the incredible modesty of Wouldn't it be great to have your children, grandchil­ our generals to blame for it. SORROWFUL d~en, .etc. as well as historians be able to trace your con­ 37AAA Friends, the only practical way out of our dilemma is to tnbutlOn to the bloody costly record of the US of A pro­ open our doors to the next generation of those who RENEE JANICE WALDRON tecting its precious freedoms? P.O. Box 264 proudly wore the Octofoil in Southeast Asia. But, there Boris Raynes Sequel, Calif. 95073 will be counterarguments to this idea and alternate solu­ Btry "C" 26th F.A. Bn. .I am writing to you to tions to the problem proposed. I plan to beat the drum 2532 Chelsea Rd. for a by-laws change in this space of the next few issues mformyou of this; it's with Palos Verdes Est., CA 90274 deepest and sorrowful of the Octofoil. Let's be reading the case for the contrary regrets I have to tell you that here as well. my father P.F.C. George Someone at the reunion mentioned seeing a recent William Waldron (a com­ magazine mention of another 9th Infantry Division group rade) has passed on to the which was forming. Presumably it intends to attract Great Battlefield in the sky. Vietnam War veterans. This is not the same organization He left us June 26, 1994 ­ that organized near Fort Lewis and went defunct when and I haven't had the· tim'e the Active Army 9th deactivated there. I need additional until now to let you all know. information so I can check out the story. Anyone recall I still, though would like to the magazine with this information? Date of issue? receive the Octofoil. Please Red Phillips let me know how I still may President receive it. Oh! by the way. I am Renee Janice Waldron­ George's youngest child and daughter. There was standing room onl~. People were standing out m the parking lot of the V.F.W. Post 7263 in Santa Cruz, Calif. and not only were there veterans there but many people from ali facets of life attended.

j.... Reunion in New York John O'Grady, left, retiring President of the Association 1996 is shown at the New Orleans Reunion turning over the Members of the 9th Medical Battalion are shown at Concord Hotel Gavel of order to his successor - Henry "Red" Phillips. their Mini-reunion-held on April 20, 1995 at Myrtle Beach, S.C. THE OCTOFOIL ______... rcE ~

MICHIGAN NEWS M COMPANY (47th) CHRONICLER TO "B" 47TH OR Dear Compadres: No I didn't die. It's just a case of haVing no news fit to NOTTO"B" This will be the last chronicle for a while, unless one of print. I am prompted now because of the July 20 news our M-ers volunteers to keep things rolling. In light of my deadline. Just two days after that date I roll over the cal­ Just because Joe gave up election at New Orleans as president of our association's endar to July 22nd and the big 80 birthday. on writing a column for you, board of governors and certain self-appointed tasks that All I can do is ask "Where did the time go?" I can't say it doesn't mean that I can't this will entail, I will hereafter be communicating in this that it seems just like yesterday. There has been births, sneak a word in now and journal to the entire membership. This will take up the deaths, marriages and grandchildren. then about Company B so if forthcoming year; then, we'll see what happens as I quit My health has been good. Three surgeries and a you don't mind a non­ buying green bananas a long time ago. quadruple by-pass. The old heart is still pumping good Veteran writing this column It was a great reunion in the "Big Easy" and, as far as I and I am still employed five days a week as a baker in a for Veterans, I will continue know, notwithstanding the city's reputation for crime and steak house. to do so. Anyway he always violence, everyone got out of there with no bruises. After So I keep plugging on hoping that the Good Lord will refers to me as his listening to Mike Wallace on 60 Minutes last Sunday, I'm continue to hold my hand. Secretary, without pay. not sure the old 9th isn't entitled to another campaign For the Michigan Members who may have wondered Our table at the New ribbon. Anyway, the Florida Chapter gets my kudos for why we didn't have our memorial service: National Orleans Reunion welcomed doing a fine job. Reunion was taking time and attention. Our chairman, Ed William Crain, 101 Chestnut Ten M-ers appeared including Dick Baudouy and his Wisniewski was haVing medical and surgical problems St., Ashland, Ohio 44805 to wife from Altamonte FL; Lou LaCivita of McKee's Rock PA; and on top of that couldn't contact his widow to get her his first Reunion. Anybody Leo and Cookie Fatlan from Braidwood IL; Joe Kearns of input. from "B" remember him? Al West Palm Beach FL; Don Kothe with Karen Wasik from It may be that next year will be different. That is if that Kongslie of the 47th, Bethesda MD; Joe Kscenaitisof Yorktown Heights NY; old bug-a-boo, sickness, doesn't enter the picture again. Company 0 and his friend Willard and Mabel Norris from Burnet TX; Ed and Mary Age will take its toll. Cheryl Galeoto, made it for Wills from Florence KY; Dick Yates of Rancho Cordova CA So if I allow myself to look back, there were some good the 2nd Reunkn. He came to and yours truly with Lee from Penn Valley CA. things to remember. Some fifty odd years have passed Lake Placid in '94 with his Special note is taken of Dick Boudoy (rhymes with but still those that stood beside me are fondly remem­ son, Lon all the way from "roadway," who very creditably kept things rolling as bered. Among them Bill Buemi with whom I took Basic California, and sat with us at banquet emcee. It was a masterful performance and he Training. Then into the picture comes: George King, the Banquet then, and hung even managed to keep our Association Secretary Dan Charlie Koski, Paul Giarraputo, Stanley Putt and Stanley around with us at this Quinn under a semblance of control at the mike. Roth who died in my arms. Space does not allow me to Reunion. He is a very nice After the reunion Lee and I went to Washington where mention the many more but they are no less remem­ addition to "B" Company, at the White House on Memorial Day I presented bered. joining Orion and Etsie President Clinton with a boxed set of the Phillips books So, though it seems impossible, let us continue to pray Shockley, Chuck and Joyce on the 9th's battles. Bill Yarbrough, General Craig's ADC Munger and Ellie and Joe for peace. at Remagen and an Arkansas native, set this up and, who Roger Alsgaard Taubner on our trips to the knows, it might gain us some long overdue publicity that 2834 Wynes Street French Quarter and on the would help attract new members to the association and Saginaw, Mi. 48602-3730 steam boat "Natchez." You keep us going? will meet him in '96 if you come to the Concord in the Stay in the shade, fellows, and wish me well with the TEXAS & THE GREATER SOUTHWEST CHAPTER new job. Catskills. We missed Bob and Moira Moore, who Red Phillips Twenty husbands and wives, representing the Texas & absolutely promise to be 14002 Hemlock Dr. The Greater Southwest Chapter, attended the fiftieth with us next year! Chick and Penn Valley CA 1956 annual reunion of the Ninth Infantry Division in New Julie Cecchini have been Orleans. Representing the Chapter were M/M Jack Blann, slowed up by Chick's hospi- Battle ofNormandy M/M Raymond Borthwick, Phillip Emmons, M/M Richard talization, and we hope that Video Reviews are in••• G~anberry, M/M Carl Hill, M/M Lyle Leaver, M/M John '96 won't be a "No" as was MIller, M/M Willard Norris, M/M William Scott, M/M '95. Do you have some spare ...never seen such a video that captures Herbert Stern, and Ray White. time? Then how about send- what I went through... Representing the Chapter on the Board of Governors ing him a note at: 13529 - a.E. Langland, TX 39th Inf will be Kenneth L. Meyer. Alternates will be Phillip Emmons and Herbert Stern. Isabel Avenue SW, Port ...movlng. and authent"IC••• Charlotte, Florida 33981. As _R. Gilmore, Curator, Ft Hamilton Museum, NY Retired Command Sergeant Major Ken Meyer recently for the rest of you, surprise returned from the Military Academy at West Point where Joe and show up in '96, to .. .1 give it 5 STARS... Very well done... Ken was the guest of Colonel Michael Anderson. Col show how Company B can - C.H. Harms, NJ 47th Inf Anderson, who teaches sociology to the Cadets, had met party! Not as late as 30-40 ...nothing for me brought back the Ken when Ken was visiting the 9th Inf Div. when the years ago (even 20!) but immediate experience of war... Division was stationed at Fort Lewis, WA Ken attended wtthinreason. After all, at------D:-Heffer, IL 60th Inf--n ------a- the pre and graduaffon TunCfions- of the class ofi99S­ This years class graduated some 1000 men and women: the Banquet this year, one of ...an exceIIent·)0b'... our members - 85 years old _H. Phillips, CA 47th Inf As Ken remarked, in his years of service he had seen a - attended and got an number of second lieutenants, but never 1000 in one for­ award!! ...what makes this film so unique... ~ation. Whil~ Ken had visited the Academy before on an Bob Moore, do you have Marv Levy, a cartoonist mformal baSIS, this was his first formal visit. Quite a . anymore of those directo- ...combines his drawings and live action deserved recognition for someone who served with the ries, Al Kongslie and Bill footage to tell his story as a 9th Infantry 9th Inf. Div in World War II and in Vietnam. But also Crain would like to have Division replacement... served as the 1st Sgt. of a rifle company with another unit one? We had a pleasant time _E.J. De Donato, FL 47th Inf in the Korean War. going over the large N I John W. Miller, Past President of the 9th Infantry Scrapbook/Photo Album Still Available... Get Your Video cassette ow. Di,,:ision Association, was the guest speaker at the City of Mrs. Dorothy Browne, RETURN TO THE ArlIngton annual Memorial Day ceremony. In addition to widow of B Company's cook, the some 200 local citizens, two 9th men in attendance: sent to Joe for the Reunion. BATTLE OF NORMANDY Herb Brasington from Richmond, Virginia and Gordon It was full of old clippings, JUNE 1944 Schneider from Arlington, TX. letters from General Eddy, An Infantyman's Combat Sketchbook Arlington Texas is now returning to normal after host­ Ernie Pyle's columns, and ~ng t~e 1995 Baseball All Stars game at the new Ballpark just so interesting. Thank of the Cherbourg Campaign In ArlIngton. It was a hot time in the old town - with the you so much, Dorothy for Produced by Marvin Levy Co A 60th Inf temperature over 100°F. on the field. sharing it with us. Well, it is A46 min video in color and black & white. Only $19.98 plus $3.98 Robert Burky & Gordon Schneider getting very late, I am tired, S+H. Check or MO payable to Marvin Levy. Mail to same at P.O. and got to get to bed. Please Box 444 Merrick, NY 11566. NY State residents add SIT. (One Many Thanks keep in touch with each dollar of each order donated to 9th Inf Div Memorial Fund.) Al Bravin sends the following notification to our mem­ other and with Joe; he really Satisfaction guaranteed. Please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery. bers. Bravin may not be able to get around much any missed all you guys who more but thinks of his buddies of the Ninth. were absent this year and BULL SESSIONS Discovery of Missing Army Hospital Files last year, and the year K Company, 47th. Inf., 9th Division Reopens World War II and Korean Claims before that! Get the idea? from Normandy to Remagen The Veterans Administration announced in late June Joseph Taubner's Wife, the discovery of duplicated 10,000,000 US Army hospital Ellie Taubner Chester H. Jordan 85 Smith Avenue files for 1942-1945 and 1950-1954 destroyed in a 1973 fire Contributions by: at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis. Bergenfield, NJ 07621 George Bastedo, David Gillespie, Joe Killacky, (201) 385-5280 Veterans whose disability claims were rejected because Dr. George Nicklin there were no records to back them up may now be able 34th F.A. B. Btry to make their case. C.A. PARCH A series of short articles and vignettes of infantry life, The discovery promises to reverse many cases. "A sur­ 43 Massey Rd. well told. Includes a definitive article on the battle for prising number of veterans put off filing disability claims Brownsville, Tenn. 38012 Frenzerburg Castle for years, only to find when they did apply that the mili­ Always look forward to get­ tary had no record of their injury. Now chances of help­ ting the Octofoil, enjoy reading $25.00 inc. postage ing World War II and Korean War veterans are much and hearing from the 9th divi­ stronger." sion. C.H. Jordan Not all of the missing records, spanning the years 1912­ Everything here in Tennessee 1058 West Lakeview Dr. 1959 for Army veterans and 1947-1964 for Air Force veter­ is fine. Have not heard from any Baton Rouge, LA, 70810 ans, have been replaced. Still, State Veterans Counselors. of the men in the division for have an excellent record of finding other ways to docu­ awhile. The obscene price is occasioned by short run photo ment claims for veterans whose records were lost. God's blessing to all 9th Inf. duplication and Avery 1st. Impression Binders. Div. THE OCTOFOIL

-4 THANKS TO YOU, THE 9TH DIVISION J: "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life J~ m for his friends." From my personal account, the four days at Lake Placid were precious moments, ones I will always treasure ~ 0 I ~ n Co. B 15th Combat Engrs. and pass the many told stories on to my own children. I I -4 CHARLIE HOFFMANN Recounting this.event will help them learn that love, freedom ~ CI) and the history of the past generations all intertwine and that • 0 91-43 81st Street l- •:r the lives given by these courageous men of the 9th, and those t- Il -n Woodhaven, N.Y. 11421 ~ I that served in WWII, did so so we can live! ~ Li"J Dear Danny, ~ 0 C!" First Reunion ... • co The true facts never seem to come out about our 9th .' CT"1 C!" Div. whether it's in books or newspaper articles so I This was my father's Al Kongslie first reunion and I'm so glad ?E ~ -:r-::r to have been able to accompany him. I didn't realize how much !'- w::-::r wrote to Andy Rooney with a suggestion about the w H the trip meant to him until we walked into the convention center I 0.... O"Jx:E: "Ludendorf Bridge." I told him I had photos of the bridge ='0 and if he wished they they could be shown on C.B.S. "60 and were greeted by so many warm friends of the 9th - many of • i-c o;:x:, ...... = ....J w Minutes" TV stating our 9th Div. was the first Division to whom said little, only to stand remembering the past with " 'E U..-lU::: moist, reddened eyes. As we looked into a room of many faces, a i ti' #0 cross the Rhine. It \SlZ :E: man walked up to my father, touched his sleeve and identified ~ \Sl:t:u::t- He wrote me back in five days with praise and knowl- ..-;oww edge for our Division as you will see when you read the himself as an American Veteran. He wrapped his arms around I I ....l1-)::I:3 letter he wrote to me below. my father's shoulders in a silent embrace, and then they looked Z each other in the eyes with sheer gratitude and respect. ~ Dear Mr. Hoffman Meant To Him Thanks for the pictures of the Ludendorf Bridge. I have What I didn't know was how much my father's friends of the the Signal Corp originals and Random House is going to Co. D- 47th meant to him and I didn't make that discovery until I I use the one with the captured German soldiers in a book had the opportunity to attend this reunion. Some of the video I've written due out in April, called My War. footage played on the television network during that time, show­ The 9th was one of the two or three best divisions and ing generations of European families standing along city shops certainly saw more than its share of action. I recall read­ and through small farming communities, applauding fervently as MRS. MATT URBAN ing that it had a 200% replacement rate going back to the many Americans passed by; applauds that acknowledged 352 W. Wildwood Dr. Algeria. the Americans and allies for helping liberate their country. Their Holland, MI 49423 I was in Cologne when I heard the 9th Armored had eyes filled with tears, communicating admiration and respect. Dear Dan & Members of reached the bridge and I got down there and across it Imagine The Landings the Ninth Division Associa­ that day. Entering the foyer of the convention center there stood tion & Families, Sincerely, boards with numerous photographs. One could only begin to The family of Lt. Col. Matt Andrew A. Rooney Urban sincerely wa.nt to 84th F.A. Btye imagine the landings at various beaches and the dreaded antici­ CBS Studios pation of that day, and premonitions for the events that fol­ thank all members of the PETE RICE, JR. Ninth Division Association 524 W. 57th Street lowed. As I glanced at my father and those honorable veterans No.2, Royal Way for their kind expression of New York, N.Y. 10019 around the room, I began to sense their inner most feelings as Dallas, Texas 75229-5537 sympathy and for the cards, Have had a couple of they relived that day of the troop carriers appearing on the hori­ GRATERJL zon. As if reading my mind, a man standing near me broke the letters, prayers and the notes from Joe Black 60th beautiful wreath in the form Infantry (E Co., I think). He MRS. ROBERT PAGE CATUS silence. He began to recount wading waist deep in the water, 3107 Walters Lane struggling to get to shore but only to see the cemetery of dead of the Octofoil emblem, that had asked to borrow my was with Matt at the funeral Roster & then thanked me Forestville, MD 20747 that lay ahead of him. Then another told of seeing the numerous It is so wonderful to keep American dog tags nailed to make-shift crosses along the roads, at Arlington National Ceme­ when returning it. This note tery. is-elldosm-l-kImw··lle would up on 9th Division news. The only then realizing that so many lives had been lost. And others sT()()dnTnsrreffce;-teflectm~uponltfetr experi~ like to hear from some of his Oc16foil Is a means·Of nIle indIvIdual communication. ences and memories. At just that moment, I sensed that in each Bn Co. 47th Inf buddies. His address: LEWIS "CHIP" MANESS Joseph L. Black, 175 S. Talked to the Superinten­ of these warriors' breast plates beat a tender center. All these dent of Arlington Cemetery, men longed for connection, touch and the genuine expression of 2640 Lowell Circle Anza #513, El Cajon, CA Melbourne, FL 32935 92020. the man who arranged a stored feelings. I was deeply touched. I will never forget our last spectacular funeral for Matt evening meal together as two veterans acknowledged not seeing It is with sadness and sor­ Patricia & I hate to miss row that I report to you that the New Orleans Reunion -I Urban. I mentioned Matt had one aiiothcr since the enrl of the war - but only to discover requested the President to that both were POW's in the same camp! my dear and beloved wife know it will be a great one. Mary passed away on 25 But, 2 years ago we commit­ sent Bob Catus, Parker, Grateful Indiana, but Bob could not I have the utmost respect for all the men and wives who March 1995. She suffered ted this same weekend to from throat cancer for eight another reunion & of course do this, too ill, terminal can­ attended and I would like to thank them for giving me their time, cer. friendship and conversation. This rare opportunity allowed me years, but she was a coura­ "A Promise made is a Debt geous trooper and she He died May 6, 1991, and a peek into yet another portion of my father's life, one he has so unpaid." Wish our 9th fought a gallant battle up to finally I am well enough to closely safeguarded. My only wish was that my mother, who reunion could be in Sept­ the very end. Her passing have him interred at passed away the previous Christmas, could have accompanied ember every year . was, however, very peaceful Arlington. A bugler will play my father and I. She, however, was blessed with the opportunity Pat & I have been exercis­ and for that we are most ing more & eating a little bit taps, seven soldiers will to have met many of my father's life-long friends who served in ~arch, then fire their guns 3 his mortar platoons. Her memory will always live on with both grateful. less & we have lost some Mary loved the 9th Div. tImes. A Chaplain will speak, of us and I am sure, in their eternal love together, she shared weight! I feel better than I Association and its people have in years. and his remains will be this experience with my father. placed in a column, above and when she was well Hope you & Marie are Vivid Memories looked forward to attending ground. Bob will rest among doing great. Say hello to the Approaching my mid-40's, I have vivid memories of the the reunions. As you will his comrades in arms at last. guys at New Orleans with a tragedy and lives that were given by those of the Vietnam War. recall she donated several of VE Day will be very much special salute to the 84th Each morning as I drive to work and cross a bridge over the her paintings to the associa­ in the news, but North F.A. guys & gals. Columbia River, I see off to one side a memorial for veterans of Africa, Sicily, and the full tion so they could be auc­ foreign wars. Surrounding this memorial blossoms a flower gar­ tioned off to raise money for 60th Inf 1st Bn Hqs panorama of Remagen den, the color very much like the memorial wreath presented to WILLIAM HENNEMUTH Normandy, Aachen, etc: the associations charitable the veterans of the 9th who gave their life for this country. It efforts. Before she died Mary 505 N. Wille St. Hurgen Forest, and Russians serves as a reminder that I, at times, take freedom for granted asked that I take another of Mt. Prospect, IL 60056 on the Elbe River should not and the human sacrifice made for my children and my security. her paintings to the next Enclosed are my dues for be forgotten. I wanted to 95. I had expected to pay write you before, but I have Because of my experiences at this conference, I can assure you reunion that I attend, give it that I will never forget what each of you did. to the Ladies Auxiliary, and you in New Orleans, but been too'ill to keep up. Am In Memory ask that they auction it off to unfortunately we had to can­ doing better now. Looking Next Veterans Day I plan to lay a bouquet of flowers between raise funds for what ever cel our reservation. Peggy forward to Arlington in has had back problems for April. the flags at the memorial in memory of the 9th. I plan to take my charity they choose. sometime. An MRI indicated 13 year old daughter with me and share what I have learned Don, I won't see you in disc problems, so after a lot 39th Inf M Co. about an important part of American history, of the American New Orleans but I'll see you of thought decided to have ARTHUR CLARK soldiers and their individual sacrifices. History can be taught probably at the one in '96 the operation here in 5115 Europa Dr. out of textbooks, but my first hand experience in getting to and I'll have the painting. Florida. But the Dr. said no Boynton Beach, FL 33437 know those who actually experienced the war better enlight­ Mary wrote a poem about long drive for 8 weeks, so we Fifty years ago today I was ened me to truly understand the word "freedom" and its costs! the men of the 9th Div. don't expect to be home till on a ship in Southampton I would like to leave each of you with this thought. The 9th which was read at her middle of June. England. I left the co. (Co M­ had an impact on the outcome of American History, and stories Memorial Service, which We had a get together 39th) on April 27th to go have yet to be told. Like a harbor, even if it is a small one, is sig­ was attended by a large here with the Clouser's home on rotation. nificant. Adventures come into it as well as out, and life grows number of the 9th Div. Winkelman's and the Clark's' While sailing home we strong, because it takes something from the world and gives in Association Members, and lots of talk. (We won) Best of were told to total up our return. I thank you for my individual freedom; the costs are was sent to John O'Grady at evervthin~ to you and Marie. points and if we had 85 we never repayable. his request. I gave him a 47th Inf. C Co. would be discharged. I had (Son) copy of the one you pub­ ROBERT W. GLEASON 148. We reached Ft. Dix on 39th Inf. Cannon Co. Lon B. Kongslie lished in the Octofoil several 3001 Stony Lake Drive #2B May 20 and was discharged GEORGE BOOTH 2965 S. Myrtle years ago. Richmond, VA 23235-681301 May 30. 621 S. Olive Kennewick, Wash. I wish you and all mem­ I hope you're well - you My wife, Helen, and I Jefferson, IA 50129 99337 bers of the 9th Inf. Division haven't heard very much from watched the movie Forrest Association a happy and me in recent years. My wife and Gump. I was surprised and Probably won't make the '95 9th Recon Trp memorable 5th Reunion in I returned to the States in May pleased to see the Ninth Div. in New Orleans, as it's early in BOB LYNCH New Orleans. '93, after liVing and working patch so nicely displayed. the year and wife Lola is having 2103 lIth St. With kindest regards and overseas since early 1984, most­ Nuff said, Dan, find check for knee replacement surgery the Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44221 best wishes, I am ly in Germany. As you can the memorial fund, in memo­ 15th of Nov. Would appreciate Believe it's time to waken the boys from the old Recon troop appreciate, getting resettled has ry of Tony Carmic & George cards from her friends in the as I haven't seen any letters in been quite a job, and I don't Copofianio. Ladies Auxiliary. know jf I'll ever completely fin­ the Octofoillately. ish it.