EX-POW BULLETIN the official voice of the American Ex-Prisoners of War Volume 70 www .axpo w .or g Number 7/8

July/August 2013

We exist to help those who cannot help themselves

Congressional Charter 10th Reunion at Piestewa Peak 2013

For the Army’s 507th Maintenance Company, March is a time for renewal and remembrance. On March 23, 2003, they were taken captive during a gunfight that led to the capture of some and death of others, and were finally rescued by U.S. Marine Corps units 22 days later. Every year, they get together with their families and at the site of a memorial mountain renamed for one of their own, Hopi Lori Ann Piestewa. At Piestewa Peak, Iraqi War POWs, friends, family and fellow veterans gathered for the 10th Anniversary. Thanks to Ernest Martinez of “Arizona for Piestewa” for his usual gracious cooperation and for these photos. Alice A. Booher

Left to right: Former POW Jessica Lynch (rear); the mother of former POW Lori Ann Piestewa, Percy Piestewa; Jessica Lynch’s daughter Dakota Ann (behind), Lori’s daughter Carla (Hopi); former POW Shoshana Johnson; Lori’s father Terry Piestewa; former POW Joe Hudson; Lori’s son (Navaho) Brandon; and Gourd Dance Staffer Mark Roanhorse, all participate in the Gourd Dance honoring Lori and other fallen heroes table of contents July/August 2013 officers/directors 4 commander 5 NSO 6 medsearch 7 andersonville 11 namPOW 12 joint committee 13 outreach 14 civilian 15 pow-mia 16 events, info, looking for 17 convention 18 The Fourth of July 2013 election information 21 On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved news 24 by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road stories 27 to freedom as a sovereign nation. As always, this most American contributions 31 of holidays will be marked by parades, fireworks and backyard new members 32 barbecues across the country. taps 33 chaplain 37 2.5 million raffle 39 In July 1776, the estimated number of people living in the newly voluntary funding 41 independent nation. quartermaster 42 Source: Historical Statistics of the United States: Colonial Times to 1970 316.2 million Publisher PNC Maurice Sharp The nation’s estimated population on this July Fourth. 9716 54th Street CT West Source: U.S. and World Population Clock University Place, WA 98467-1118 (253) 565-0444 [email protected] August 10, 1982 Editor The American Ex-Prisoners of War received our congressional char- Cheryl Cerbone ter under Title 36 of the United States Code in 1982. This event 23 Cove View Drive followed closely on the heels of passage of Public Law 97-37, estab- South Yarmouth, MA 02664 lishing the first presumptives for ex-POWs and mandating the es- (508) 394-5250 tablishment of the Advisory Committee. (508) 760-2008 fax [email protected] UMB Credit Card Intrepid Staff Reporter Every time a member – or member’s family or friends – signs Alice A Booher up for the new UMB credit card (which features our marching men on the face), AXPOW receives $50.00. That’s like making a Deadline for the Sept/Oct 2013 $50 donation to the organization when you sign up. We also issue is August 1, 2013. get a percentage of every dollar spent if you use the card each month. Please send all materials to the editor at the above address. So won’t you take a few minutes and apply for this card today?

EX-POW Bulletin (ISSN 0161-7451) is published bi-monthly (six times annually) by the American Ex-Prisoners of War, 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Arlington, TX 76010. Periodical postage paid at Arlington, TX and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: send address changes to EX-POW Bulletin, AXPOW Headquarters, 3201 E. Pioneer Pkwy. Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010-5396. Founded April 14, 1942, in Albuquerque, NM, then known as Bataan Relief Organization, Washington State non- profit corporation, “American Ex-Prisoners of War”, October 11, 1949, recorded as Document No. 133762, Roll 1, Page 386-392. NONPROFIT CORPORATION. Nationally Chartered August 10, 1982. Appearance in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the American Ex-Prisoners of War of the product or service advertised. The publisher reserves the right to decline or discontinue any such advertisement. © 2013 American Ex-Prisoners of War Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 3 axpow officers & directors 2012-2013 National Headquarters - Clydie J. Morgan, Adjutant/Treasurer 3201 E. Pioneer Pkwy, #40, Arlington, TX 76010 (817) 649-2979 (817) 649-0109 fax [email protected] Officers Directors National Commander North East Region Mid-Central Region Charles Susino, Jr. Charles A. Susino Becky Fisher 136 Jefferson Street 951 Gates Ave. 6319 Whims Rd. Metuchen, NJ 08840 Piscataway, NJ 08854 Canal Winchester, OH 43110 (732) 549-5775 phone & fax (732) 463-8355; (732) 221-0073-C (614) 834-7214 [email protected] National Sr Vice Commander Laura McIntyre Deanie Schmidt James L. Lollar PO Box 475 1001 Parkview Blvd. #316 292 VZ CR 3727 Hardwick, MA 01037 Columbus, OH 43219 Wills Point, TX 75169 (413) 477-8260 (413) 477-0172 fax (614) 372-0788 (903) 560-1734; (903) 560-1705 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] East Central Region Judy Lee South Central Region National Judge Advocate PO Box 56 PNC Morris Barker David Drummond Madisonville, TN 37354 710 Chapel View 1 Crane Court (423) 442-3223; (423) 442-4702 fax Waco, TX 76712 Manalapan, NJ 07726 [email protected] (254) 732-5640 (732) 446-4198 [email protected] [email protected] Southeast Region Edward L. DeMent Ben Garrido National Chaplain 8735 Doral Oaks Dr., #1617 6813 W 60th Street ND Benny Rayborn Temple Terrace, FL 33617 Tulsa OK 74107 459 Grady Brown Rd (813) 985-3783 (951) 313-9838 Lumberton MS 39455 [email protected] [email protected] (601) 466-1951 [email protected] Benny Rayborn Northwest Region 1111 Highway 29 Bonnie Sharp Jr. Vice Commanders Wiggins, MS 39577 9716 54th Street CT West Wm “Bill” Jeffers - (601) 928-9200 University Place, WA 98467-1118 Eastern Zone [email protected] (253) 565-0444 3522 Millbrook Way Cr [email protected] Greenacres, FL 33463 North Central Region (561) 969-6036 John W Clark Southwest Region [email protected] 1201 S Johnmeyer Ln Alice Gollin Columbia MO 65203 37231 Turnberry Isle Pam Warner Eslinger - (573) 445-3621 Palm Desert, CA 92211 Central Zone [email protected] (760) 610-1271;(760) 610-1752 fax PO Box 117 [email protected] Hammon, OK 73650 David Claypool (580) 821-1526 PO Box 38 Lewis “Lew” Sleeper 6636 E Villa Dorado [email protected] Hampton MN 55031 (612) 245-2247 Tucson, AZ 85715 [email protected] (520) 751-9628 Voice Milton “Skip” Moore - (520) 490-1082 Cell Western Zone [email protected] 2965 Sierra Bermeja Sierra Vista, AZ 85650 (520) 459-7295; (520) 533-3757 fax Senior Director [email protected] Carroll Bogard, Ph.D 275 N Taft #116 Mason City IA 50401 Committee addresses appear (641) 424-4870 – Voice with their columns (641) 512-4543 - Cell some cases on the backs of vet- on official erans. During 2012-3 while Com- business and mander, this happened many each time times where I had to send letters the surreal to Congressman calling for their atmosphere involvement on our behalf. As over takes individual veterans, we too have me. During a voice and obligation to take ac- the ceremo- tion and as an organization our nies, looking influence is great through letters out to the Ar- and face to face meetings. Head- lington Cemetery Amphitheater quarters has been instrumental overflowing with members of the in monitoring these Bills and giv- public, weighs heavy on my heart. ing the Commander the heads-up Their pres- when it is time to weigh in. This ence hon- will forever be an important func- oring the National Commander tion of the Ex-POW organization. country’s Charles Susino, Jr. veterans as By example, I attended the Febru- well as At the June National Convention, ary 28, 2013 Senate Veterans Sub- coverage my term as Commander ended. committee Meeting in Washing- by the na- I have been proud representing ton headed by Senator Barry Sand- tional our organization. This year has ers and Representative Miller press and been the most rewarding among who are supporters of veterans. live media my 20+ years serving veterans. As Following the testimonies pro- is very re- I move from Commander to PNC vided by the veteran’s organiza- warding. my message is to keep our orga- tions, Mr. Sanders mentioned that nization moving forward. Influ- due to the critical budget issues ence policies that are set in Wash- Washington was looking to ington, work effectively with the change the cost of living adjust- VA as they administer these poli- ment for social security and vet- cies, and most importantly on an erans which would reduce in- individual basis, “helping those creases in future years because that can’t help themselves”. the increases were “too much”. I publicly responded by stating “I As you all understand, the pro- don’t understand why they look cess of developing and passing at veterans getting too much. The Congressional Bills into law is sacrifices they gave maybe were complicated. The elected politi- too much. To think about reduc- cians and their staff originate ing veterans benefits is uncon- Bills based on their own beliefs scious able. Veterans gave their and the input they receive from best to the country and Washing- others. As the Bills go through ton should give their best to the committees, policy makers in veterans.” My response was Washington receive input from greeted by audience applause, the many lobbies, some positive and only applause of the entire hear- Looking forward, my intention is some negative towards the veter- ing. So while the EX-POW organi- to continue to attend the National ans. It is important that we as an zation has its role, it is impor- Conferences and play an active organization weigh in on the is- tant that we all are engaged so role with the organization and sues that are important to us and politicians and other policy mak- serving veterans. See you all! not rest until our voices are ers hear from us! God Bless our troops heard and reflected in the Bills. God Bless America These Bills must be monitored On May 27, 2013 our organization -Remember- and reviewed as they go through has been honored to place a each step in the process ever wreath at the Tomb of the Un- alert for changes. The devil is in known Soldier. I was joined with Ex-POW Bulletin the details however a common my son, Charles A. Susino. I have theme is reducing spending been to Washington many times July/August 2013 within the Government and in often serving our organization 5 decisions for Veterans who have news nso waited one year or longer. On April 19, VA began prioritizing from claims decisions for Veterans who have been waiting the long- est, by providing provisional de- hq cisions that allow eligible Veter- ans to begin collecting compen- sation benefits quickly. With a The convention will be behind us Ruth Powell, Director - NSO provisional decision, a Veteran by the time you read this. We are 191 Florence Road has a year to submit additional still in the thick of planning it Waltham, MA 02453 information to support a claim here at HQ but it looks like we 781-899-0726 before the decision becomes fi- will have a good one. Our hotel, nal. directly across from Six Flags, VA Mandates Overtime to Hurricane Harbor and other great Increase Production of “We’re committed to getting Vet- family hotspots, will be jumping Compensation Claims Decisions erans decisions on their claims with children and grandchildren! Latest Initiative aimed at reducing as quickly and accurately as pos- the backlog sible,” said Undersecretary for We have been receiving bequest Benefits Allison A. Hickey. “We donations from the members and As part of its ongoing effort to need to surge our resources now friends of AXPOW. Being remem- accelerate the elimination of the to help those who have waited the bered in the wills of our support- disability compensation claims longest and end the backlog.” ers helps secure the backlog, the Department of Vet- organization’s future. It’s very erans Affairs (VA) is announcing Claims for Wounded Warriors simple to make a bequest to the today that it is mandating over- separating from the military for American Ex-Prisoners of War. time for claims processors in its medical reasons will continue to Simply share this sentence with 56 regional benefits offices. This be handled separately and on a your attorney or financial plan- surge, which will be implemented priority basis with the Depart- ner and they can add the follow- through the end of fiscal year ment of Defense through the In- ing to your will or living trust: “I 2013, will be targeted to eliminat- tegrated Disability Evaluation give, devise and bequeath to the ing the backlogged status of System (IDES). On average, American Ex-Prisoners of War, claims. The additional overtime Wounded Warriors separating 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, hours that will be worked during through IDES currently receive Arlington, TX 76010, the sum of this period will be used to help VA compensation benefits in 2 $______or ______percent of the eliminate the backlog with con- months following their separa- rest, residue and remainder of tinued emphasis on high-priority tion from service. my estate.” claims for homeless Veterans and those claiming financial Veterans can learn more about We received a very large donation hardship, the terminally ill, disability benefits on the joint De- from a man in New Jersey. He was former Prisoners of War, Medal partment of Defense—VA web not a POW nor a member of AX- of Honor recipients, and Veterans portal eBenefits at POW. He was a friend. His re- filing Fully Developed Claims. http://www.ebenefits.va.gov. membrance of former POWs is “VA is dedicated to providing dearly appreciated and will be put Veterans with the care and ben- More information about filing to good use in our future. efits they have earned and de- Fully Developed Claims is avail- serve,” said VA Secretary Eric K. able at: http:// We are working on what the or- Shinseki. “This increased over- www.benefits.va.gov/transforma- ganization will look like in years time initiative will provide more tion/fastclaims/. to come. We hope your children Veterans with decisions on their and grandchildren will help us do claims and will help us achieve the work that is still there for us. our goal of eliminating the The 2012 version of the Federal claims backlog.” Benefits for Veterans Have a safe summer! Dependents and Survivors is This is the latest effort in sup- available from National Headquarters. If you would like Ex-POW Bulletin port of the Secretary’s plan to reduce the backlog. Last month, a copy, please call: 817-649- July/August 2013 the VA announced an initiative to 2979 or email: 6 expedite compensation claims [email protected]. pow medsearch 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40 Marsha Coke, Chairman Arlington, TX 76010 e-mail: [email protected] (817) 649-2979 jaw, or back. Angina pain may even Smoking Coronary Heart Disease feel like indigestion. High levels of certain fats and cho- lesterol in the blood Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a A heart attack occurs if the flow of High blood pressure disease in which a waxy substance oxygen-rich blood to a section of High levels of sugar in the blood due called plaque builds up inside the heart muscle is cut off. If blood flow to insulin resistance or diabetes coronary arteries. These arteries sup- isn’t restored quickly, the section of Blood vessel inflammation ply oxygen-rich blood to your heart heart muscle begins to die. Without muscle. quick treatment, a heart attack can Plaque might begin to build up where lead to serious health problems or the arteries are damaged. The When plaque builds up in the arter- death. buildup of plaque in the coronary ies, the condition is called athero- arteries may start in childhood. sclerosis. The buildup of plaque oc- Over time, CHD can weaken the heart curs over many years. muscle and lead to heart failure and Over time, plaque can harden or rup- arrhythmias (ah-RITH-me-ahs). Heart ture. Hardened plaque narrows the Over time, plaque can harden or rup- failure is a condition in which your coronary arteries and reduces the ture. Hardened plaque narrows the heart can’t pump enough blood to flow of oxygen-rich blood to the coronary arteries and reduces the meet your body’s needs. Arrhythmias heart. This can cause angina. flow of oxygen-rich blood to the are problems with the rate or rhythm heart. of the heartbeat. If the plaque ruptures, blood cell fragments called platelets stick to If the plaque ruptures, a blood clot Outlook the site of the injury. They may clump can form on its surface. A large together to form blood clots. blood clot can mostly or completely block blood flow through a coronary CHD is the most common type of Blood clots can further narrow the artery. Over time, ruptured plaque heart disease. In the United States, coronary arteries and worsen angina. also hardens and narrows the coro- CHD is the #1 cause of death for If a clot becomes large enough, it can nary arteries. both men and women. Lifestyle changes, medicines, and medical pro- mostly or completely block a coro- nary artery and cause a heart attack. Overview cedures can help prevent or treat CHD. These treatments may reduce the risk of related health problems. Who Is at Risk for Coronary Heart If the flow of oxygen-rich blood to Disease? your heart muscle is reduced or What Causes Coronary Heart blocked, angina (an-JI-nuh or AN-juh- Disease? In the United States, coronary heart nuh) or a heart attack can occur. disease (CHD) is the #1 cause of death for both men and women. Each Angina is chest pain or discomfort. Research suggests that coronary year, more than 400,000 Americans It may feel like pressure or squeez- heart disease (CHD) starts when cer- die from CHD. ing in your chest. The pain also can tain factors damage the inner layers occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, of the coronary arteries. These fac- tors include: Certain traits, conditions, or habits may raise your risk for CHD. The Figure A shows the location more risk factors you have, the more of the heart in the body. likely you are to develop the disease. Figure B shows a normal coronary artery with normal You can control many risk factors, blood flow. The inset image which may help prevent or delay shows a cross-section of a CHD. normal coronary artery. Figure C shows a coronary Major Risk Factors artery narrowed by plaque. Unhealthy blood cholesterol levels. The buildup of plaque limits High blood pressure. the flow of oxygen-rich blood through the artery. The inset Ex-POW Bulletin image shows a cross-section July/August 2013 of the plaque-narrowed artery. 7 What Are the Signs and Symptoms might be a sign of a heart attack. If medsearch continued... of Coronary Heart Disease? you don’t know whether your chest pain is angina or a heart attack, call Smoking. A common symptom of coronary 911. Insulin resistance. heart disease (CHD) is angina. Diabetes. All chest pain should be checked by Overweight or obesity. Angina may feel like pressure or a doctor. Metabolic syndrome. squeezing in your chest. You also Lack of physical activity. may feel it in your shoulders, arms, Other common signs and symptoms Unhealthy diet. neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain may of a heart attack include: Older age. even feel like indigestion. The pain Upper body discomfort in one or Family history of early heart disease. tends to get worse with activity and both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or go away with rest. Emotional stress upper part of the stomach Although older age and a family his- also can trigger the pain. Shortness of breath, which may oc- tory of early heart disease are risk cur with or before chest discomfort factors, it doesn’t mean that you’ll Another common symptom of CHD Nausea, vomiting, light-headedness develop CHD if you have one or both. is shortness of breath. This symptom or fainting, or breaking out in a cold Controlling other risk factors often occurs if CHD causes heart failure. sweat can lessen genetic influences and When you have heart failure, your Sleep problems, fatigue (tiredness), help prevent CHD, even in older heart can’t pump enough blood to or lack of energy adults. meet your body’s needs. Fluid builds up in your lungs, making it hard to Heart Failure. Heart failure is a con- Emerging Risk Factors breathe. dition in which your heart can’t pump enough blood to meet your body’s Researchers continue to study other The severity of these symptoms var- needs. Heart failure doesn’t mean possible risk factors for CHD. ies. They may get more severe as the that your heart has stopped or is buildup of plaque continues to nar- about to stop working. High levels of a protein called C-re- row the coronary arteries. active protein (CRP) in the blood may The most common signs and symp- raise the risk of CHD and heart at- Signs and Symptoms of Heart toms of heart failure are shortness tack. Problems Related to Coronary Heart of breath or trouble breathing; fa- Disease tigue; and swelling in the ankles, feet, Inflammation is the body’s response legs, stomach, and veins in the neck. to injury or infection. Damage to the Some people who have CHD have no All of these symptoms are the result arteries’ inner walls may trigger in- signs or symptoms—a condition of fluid buildup in your body. When flammation and help plaque grow. called silent CHD. The disease might symptoms start, you may feel tired not be diagnosed until a person has and short of breath after routine Research is under way to find out signs or symptoms of a heart attack, physical effort, like climbing stairs. whether reducing inflammation and heart failure, or an arrhythmia (an ir- lowering CRP levels also can reduce regular heartbeat). Arrhythmia. An arrhythmia is a prob- the risk of CHD and heart attack. lem with the rate or rhythm of the Heart Attack. The most common heartbeat. When you have an arrhyth- High levels of triglycerides in the heart attack symptom is chest pain mia, you may notice that your heart blood also may raise the risk of CHD, or discomfort. Most heart attacks is skipping beats or beating too fast. especially in women. Triglycerides involve discomfort in the center or Some people describe arrhythmias as are a type of fat. left side of the chest that often lasts a fluttering feeling in the chest. These for more than a few minutes or goes feelings are called palpitations. Other Risks Related to Coronary away and comes back. The discom- Heart Disease fort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. Some arrhythmias can cause your Other conditions and factors also The feeling can be mild or severe. heart to suddenly stop beating. This may contribute to CHD, including: Heart attack pain sometimes feels condition is called sudden cardiac Sleep apnea. like indigestion or heartburn. The arrest (SCA). SCA usually causes Stress. symptoms of angina can be similar death if it’s not treated within min- Alcohol. to the symptoms of a heart attack. utes. Angina pain usually lasts for only a few minutes and goes away with rest. How Is Coronary Heart Disease Chest pain or discomfort that Diagnosed? Ex-POW Bulletin doesn’t go away or changes from its July/August 2013 usual pattern (for example, occurs Your doctor will diagnose coronary 8 more often or while you’re resting) heart disease based on your medi- Taking action to control your risk tack. Angina pain usually lasts for medsearch, continued factors can help prevent or delay only a few minutes and goes away coronary heart disease (CHD). Your with rest. cal and family histories, your risk risk for CHD increases with the num- Chest pain or discomfort that factors for CHD, a physical exam, ber of risk factors you have. doesn’t go away or changes from its and the results from tests and pro- usual pattern (for example, occurs cedures. Living With Coronary Heart Disease more often or while you’re resting) No single test can diagnose CHD. If can be a sign of a heart attack. If your doctor thinks you have CHD, he Coronary heart disease (CHD) can you don’t know whether your chest or she may recommend one or more cause serious complications. How- pain is angina or a heart attack, call of the following tests. ever, if you follow your doctor’s ad- 9–1–1. vice and adopt healthy lifestyle hab- EKG (Electrocardiogram) its, you can prevent or reduce the risk Let the people you see regularly Stress Testing of: know you’re at risk for a heart at- Echocardiography Dying suddenly from heart problems tack. They can seek emergency care Echocardiography Having a heart attack and damaging for you if you suddenly faint, col- Chest X Ray your heart muscle lapse, or have other severe symptoms. Blood Tests Damaging your heart because of re- Electron-Beam Computed Tomogra- duced oxygen supply Emotional Issues and Support phy Having arrhythmias (irregular heart- Coronary Angiography and Cardiac beats) Living with CHD may cause fear, anxi- Catheterization ety, depression, and stress. You may worry about heart problems or mak- How Is Coronary Heart Disease Ongoing Care ing lifestyle changes that are neces- Treated? sary for your health. Lifestyle changes and medicines can help control CHD. Lifestyle changes Treatments for coronary heart dis- Talk about how you feel with your include following a healthy diet, be- ease (CHD) include lifestyle changes, health care team. Talking to a pro- ing physically active, maintaining a medicines, and medical procedures. fessional counselor also can help. If healthy weight, quitting smoking, and you’re very depressed, your doctor managing stress. Treatment goals may include: may recommend medicines or other Relieving symptoms. treatments that can improve your Work closely with your doctor to Reducing risk factors in an effort to quality of life. control your blood pressure and slow, stop, or reverse the buildup of Joining a patient support group may manage your blood cholesterol and plaque. help you adjust to living with CHD. blood sugar levels. Talk with your Lowering the risk of blood clots You can see how other people who doctor about how often you should forming. (Blood clots can cause a have the same symptoms have coped schedule office visits or blood tests. heart attack.) with them. Talk with your doctor Between those visits, call your doc- Widening or bypassing clogged ar- about local support groups or check tor if you have any new symptoms or teries. with an area medical center. Preventing complications of CHD. if your symptoms worsen. Support from family and friends also Heart Attack Warning Signs Lifestyle Changes. Making lifestyle can help relieve stress and anxiety. changes often can help prevent or Let your loved ones know how you treat CHD. Lifestyle changes might CHD raises your risk for a heart at- feel and what they can do to help be the only treatment that some tack. Learn the signs and symptoms you. people need. of a heart attack, and call 9–1–1 if Follow a Healthy Diet you have any of these symptoms: Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC). Chest pain or discomfort. Dietary Approaches to Stop Hyper- Upper body discomfort in one or National Heart, Blood & Lung tension (DASH). both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or Institute Be Physically Active upper part of the stomach. National Institutes of Health Maintain a Healthy Weight Shortness of breath, which may oc- Quit Smoking cur with or before chest discomfort. (NIH), 9000 Rockville Pike, Manage Stress Nausea, vomiting, light-headedness Bethesda, Maryland 20892 Medicines or fainting, or breaking out in a cold Procedures and Surgery sweat. Cardiac Rehabilitation Symptoms also may include sleep problems, fatigue (tiredness), and Ex-POW Bulletin How Can Coronary Heart Disease lack of energy. July/August 2013 Be Prevented or Delayed? The symptoms of angina can be simi- lar to the symptoms of a heart at- 9 1. Santo Tomas prison camp 10. POWs at Cabanatuan 11. Bilibid POW hospital 12. Bataan Death March, internees Lee Rogers and Camp 3 beaten with clubs. ward, Philippine Islands. April 1942. John Todd.

4. 2. Pvt. Robert Collins & M/ 3. Pfc. Robert Brandon Nichols Field Detail, PI, 5. An American POW suf- Sgt. Woodrow Haines back rations Red Cross parcels, taken at Pasay Schoolhouse. fering from dry beri-beri be- behind UN lines, Chechon, Stalag IX-B. ing treated in Bilibid. Korea.

8. Three American POWS 7. Survivors of Suchon released by the Viet Cong Tunnel Massacre, Korea. near Tay Ninh City. POW Photos Order Form These black & white 8x10” photographs are available from MedSearch. Please include a donation of $5.00 6. 9. Private Joe Demler and per picture, or $50.00 for the complete set of 12 with Nick Mustacchia. 100 another POW are liberated your order. Fill out the form below with selections. days as a POW -- 100 lb. from XII-A, Limburg. weight loss. Stalag Luft IV. Fill in the number of copies Checks payable to AXPOW of each picture desired in the Mail to:AXPOW National Headquarters blank beside the picture’s 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 identification number: Arlington, TX 76010. PH: 817-649-2979; fax 817-649-0109 1._____5._____9._____ Name ______2._____6._____10.____ Address ______3._____7._____11.____ City/State/Zip ______4._____8._____12.____ Credit Card: MasterCard ______VISA ______Card # ______Expiration: ______Set of 12 photos______Ex-POW Bulletin Total Amount Enclosed or Charged July/August 2013 ($5.00 per picture/$50.00 for set of 12) ______10 a former Post Commander of the Otha andersonville Spriggs Memorial American Legion Post, a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Vietnam Veterans of America. In ad- dition to his military ser- vice, and a decade as a his- tory professor at Essex Community College, Mr. Davis served in the Mary- land House of Delegates from 1982-2006. Davis’ re- marks centered on the im- portance of each genera- tion acknowledging the Andersonville NHS sacrifices of its veterans. 496 Cemetery Road He encouraged the audi- Andersonville, GA 31711 ence to “teach our children (229) 924-0343 On the afternoon of Sunday, May 26th, about the reality of what America Brad Bennett, Superintendent Andersonville National Historic Site means. The American ideal is some- thing very special. That is why we [email protected] hosted its annual Memorial Day cer- emony, drawing several hundred visi- have those graves over there. That is tors. Superintendent Brad Bennett why my children and my great-grand- acted as Master of Ceremonies, and children will willingly sign that docu- Memorial Day read a letter on behalf of AXPOW ment when called…America is excep- at Andersonville National Commander Charles Susino, tional, but more than that, the people Jr., which stated, in part, “There are of America are exceptional.” by Stephanie Steinhorst, Park Ranger many memorials honoring the veter- ans who were Prisoners of War, none more significant than here at Andersonville…truly one of our country’s treasures.” Jim Covington, president of the Friends of Andersonville provided greetings, followed by Congressman Doug Lamborn, U.S. House of Representa- tives, 5th District of Colorado, who shared a story about Vietnam POW Jeremiah Denton of Mobile, Alabama. Denton, who was held at the Hanoi Hilton and later served in the served in the U.S. Senate from Alabama, was used by his captors for a propa- ganda film and was ordered to make derogatory remarks about the U.S. He Following Mr. Davis’ remarks, used the Morse Code by blinking his wreaths were presented by several eyes to spell out the word “torture.” veterans groups and other support Congressman Lamborn praised the organizations, including Daughters of heroic actions of U.S. servicemen and the American Revolution, the It was a particularly beautiful Me- women like Denton and concluded Women’s Relief Corps, Daughters of morial Day weekend in Georgia, with by saying “We are the land of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, 4th warm temperatures and cool breezes free because we are the home of the Allied POW Wing, the Red River Val- making perfect conditions for the brave. God Bless America.” ley Fighter Pilots Association, Gold 300 volunteers – mostly scouting Star Wives, and Gold Star Mothers. groups – who placed almost 20,000 Kenneth Cutts, District Director for The ceremony concluded with a rifle United States flags on the graves in nd Congressman Sanford Bishop, 2 salute and the playing of Taps and Andersonville National Cemetery. District of Georgia, introduced key- “Amazing Grace.” Many of these volunteers come back note speaker Clarence “Tiger” Davis. year after year to honor the fallen A native of Wilkes County, Georgia, Ex-POW Bulletin soldiers, sometimes returning with Davis’ family moved to Baltimore in July/August 2013 their children and grandchildren to 1948. After high school, he served 11 help in the project. four years in the U.S. Air Force. He is were all cocky — mostly proud back determined to make a dif- namPOW news pilots and flight crews — before ference and to pursue our our capture and years of torture dreams. Thirty became flag or and deprivation. Today, there will general officers in the Navy or Air be fewer of us to get together and Force, a phenomenal number con- renew the bonds and the experi- sidering the large amount of time ences we shared. Those of us who away from a “normal” military are left are now gray-haired or career! balding and move a bit slower than we did the last time we were Our small group includes five together. who have served in Congress, in- cluding two U.S. senators, as well Paul E. Galanti We will have drinks and cocktails as doctors, business leaders, an 804.389.1668 (cell) at our hotel along the Pacific. We F.C.C. commissioner, a vice-presi- [email protected] will catch up on our lives, ask dential candidate and a presiden- about our children and grandchil- tial candidate. Often I think of the dren, and swap stories. The years thousands of those whose lives Remember the high will peel away and we’ll be 26 were ended before they had these years old again, “slipping the same opportunities that we and cost of freedom surly bonds of Earth”! There will our fellow Americans take for be laughter and there will be granted. This Memorial Day, thousands of tears. And despite the horrors we my fellow Virginians, including endured as POWs, we will realize As has been said so many times our governor, Bob McDonnell, that we are the lucky ones. before, “Freedom is never free.” will gather at the Virginia War From Valley Forge to Gettysburg Memorial in Richmond to honor More than 58,000 of our com- … from the muddy trenches of and remember the brave men and rades did not return from Viet- Verdun to the beaches of women who have given the ulti- nam. Their names are etched on Normandy … from the frozen mate sacrifice in defense of this the black stone walls of the Viet- ground of the Chosin Reservoir great nation and the ideals on nam Veterans Memorial in Wash- to the steamy jungles of the which is was founded. I will miss ington, and those from the com- Mekong Delta … to the sands of not being there to take part in monwealth are also engraved on Iraq and Afghanistan, Americans this inspiring and meaningful the glass and stone walls in the have spilled their blood and given ceremony. Virginia War Memorial’s Shrine their lives to preserve the free- of Memory. dom we hold dear. Every one de- Instead, my wife Phyllis and I will serves our prayers and our grati- be thousands of miles away in My fellow POWs and I returned to tude. Newport Beach, Cal. — but not on continue our military careers or vacation. We will be attending the to civilian life. Most of us came It is too easy to forget that Me- th 40 reunion of the sur- morial Day is not sim- viving members of the ply a three-day weekend 600 of us who were fi- to kick off summer. It is nally released from the the day that Americans notorious North Viet- set aside to honor and nam prison we called remember those who the “Hanoi Hilton” on fought and died for our Feb. 12, 1973. country.

It is hard to realize that It is my hope that you four decades have and your family will passed since we walked take a few hours on Mon- — no flew! — from that day to attend a Memo- difficult situation and rial Day event such as returned to wives and the Commonwealth’s families back home. We Memorial Day Cer- Ex-POW Bulletin emony at the Virginia War Memorial. Our July/August 2013 fallen heroes deserve 12 nothing less. 3.29 years. Since half will die be- been a prisoner of war. One no fore three years, and the other longer has to prove it was the half for six years, our 13, 000 WW cause. Our organization needs to 11 era members will drop to 6,500 make sure these presumptive’s in three years, and almost zero are preserved . Many widows will in six years. Baring another WW, need assistance with DIC. we are left with about 1,000 Ko- rean, Vietnam, and NOKs. We need to preserve congression- ally approved National POW/MIA In three years,and particularly six Day and POW RECOGNITION DAY. years, could our reduced mem- Our Commander meets with con- bership support our current bud- gress in March, and tells their get of over $300,000 per year? members about our needs. Now, this is all speculation, but this is what our planning com- We need to keep the tradition of mittee is asking the Board of Di- VA services such as the office Why is it Worthy for rectors and members to do. This they give me as a service officer AXPOW to Survive? is why we have been trying to keep with in the VA facility. We must our revenue above expenses. This try to request that the VA provide is why we should try to preserve space for our chapter meetings, Why is it not easier to think that what is now our cash reserves of and psychological services such AXPOW HAS SERVED ITS purpose, about $250,000. as PTSD clinics. and let it die a financial death. With membership declining it This is why we are recommend- could happen soon. You have Above all, we must try to con- ing to our membership, changes heard from our Strategic Plan- tinue the publication of the Bul- in our by-laws to simplify our ning Committee disastrous letin. Currently, we count on voting procedures, and reduce forcasts for the future if we do communications with Depart- our Directors from 16 to 8 to fit not prepare for what is predicted ment Commanders to keep mem- a much smaller membership. to be our fiscal cliff. We once had bers posted on national affairs, over 30,000 members. We are now but with many departments clos- down to 14,000. Thirteen thou- Why is it important to try to ing, it is becoming less effective. sand of us are WWII age, and let keep our organization alive? We need to transfer all happen- us guess that our average is 92. With over twenty presumptive’s, ings, including the budget to the Social Security Actuarial Publica- each of these conditions mean Bulletin. tions show our life expectancy is that they were caused by having How can you help in this survival? Give me ideas to either increase revenues or cut expenses. If you or your chapters or Departments have been angered by actions of our officers, and stopped making donations, review this article in you chapter meetings, and recon- sider donations. Maybe you might ask that your donations go into reserves, and that only the income from those donations be used for expenses. Lew

Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 2012 National Convention ~ Arlington, Texas 13 retirement payments increase 10% Compensation. It will include the va outreach per year through 2013. Veterans disability considerations which are rated 100% disabled by the VA are uniquely applicable to former pris- entitled to full CRDP without being oners of war. phased in. Veterans receiving ben- efits at the 100% rate due to unem- ployability are entitled to full CRPD starting in 2005. Eligibility for CRPD HUD & VA Team Up to Provide requires meeting all of the follow- Permanent Homes to 9,000 ing: (1) 20 or more years of active Homeless Vets duty, or full-time National Guard duty, or satisfactory reserve service, Approximately 9,000 homeless Vet- (2) be in retired status, (3) receiving erans living on the streets and in the retired pay (off-set by VA payments). nation’s shelter system will soon find Bill Jeffers Retirees do not have to apply for this a permanent place to call home. U.S. benefit. The payment is coordinated Housing and Urban Development Chairman between the VA and DoD. (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Combat-related Special Compensa- (VA) Secretary Eric K. Shinseki an- This article will start addressing the tion (CRSC) provides monthly pay- nounced that HUD will provide $60 subject of Disability Compensation, ments to eligible retired veterans million to local public housing agen- a VA monetary benefit available to with combat-related injuries. Under cies across the country to offer per- veterans who have been disabled as CRSC, veterans receive both full mili- manent supportive housing to home- a result of an injury or illness in- tary retirement pay and VA disabil- less Veterans, many of whom are liv- curred or aggravated during active ity compensation if the injury is com- ing with chronic disabling conditions. military service. Such disabilities are bat related. Eligibility for retired vet- termed service-connected. The erans to apply for CRSC requires The supportive housing assistance is amount of this compensation is a meeting all of the following:(1) 20 provided through the HUD-Veterans function of the extent of disability years of active or reserve creditable Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD- and the number of dependants the service or medically retired, (2) re- VASH) Program which combines veteran has. Disability compensation ceiving retired military pay, (3) 10% rental assistance from HUD with case is exempt from both state and fed- or greater VA rated disability, and management and clinical services eral income tax. have documented evidence that the provided by VA. Since 2008, a total injury(s) resulted from one of the of 48,385 vouchers have been The payment of military retirement following: (a) training simulating war, awarded and 42,557 formerly home- pay, disability severance pay and (b) hazardous duty, (c) instrument of less Veterans are currently in homes separation payments affects the war, (d) armed conflict. Disabilities because of HUD-VASH. amount of VA compensation paid to relating to in-service exposure to disabled veterans. hazards (such as Agent Orange, Gulf Donovan and Shinseki announced War illnesses, radiation exposure) for this additional support for homeless The monthly disability compensation which VA awards compensation are Veterans in an address to the Na- rates start at $127 for a 10% service- considered combat-related for CRSC tional Coalition of Homeless Veter- connected disability rating and in- purposes. A service-connected pre- ans conference today in Washington. crease for each additional 10% of sumptive disability of a former POW Find out how much of this assistance disability until the 100% disability is considered to be combat-related will help homeless veterans in your rating is reached at which point the for CRSC eligibility purposes. area. monthly compensation is $2769. Vet- erans with disability ratings of at Certain chronic and tropical dis- HUD-VASH is a critical part of the least 30% are eligible for additional eases may be considered service- Obama Administration’s commitment allowances for dependents. connected presumptive conditions if to end Veteran and long-term chronic the disease rises to a compensable homelessness in 2015. Opening Eligible military retirees can receive degree (10% or greater) within an Doors: Federal Strategic Plan to Pre- Concurrent Retirement and Disabil- applicable time limit (1,3 or 7 years) vent and End Homelessness serves ity Payments (CRDP). CRDP restores depending on the disease. Veterans as a roadmap for how the federal retired pay on a graduated 10 year who develop Amyotrophic Lateral government will work with state and schedule for those with a 50 to 90% Sclerosis (ALS) at any time after ac- local communities to confront the VA rated disability. The concurrent tive service may also be eligible for root causes of homelessness, espe- service-connected disability com- cially among former servicemen and pensation. Ex-POW Bulletin women. July/August 2013 The next VA Outreach article will 14 conclude the subject of Disability Aided by Japan-apologists in recent election of Shinzo Abe as civilians academia and the media, the Prime Minister of Japan. Japanese have ramped up an enormous propaganda campaign According to The New York to convince present day Times editorial on January 2, populations that Japan was 2013, he has signaled that he largely innocent of wrongdoing might seek to revise Japan’s 1993 and that America and its allies apologies for its World War II waged a merciless and immoral aggression, including one for war against Japan. With the using Koreans and other women continual decline in the number as sex slaves. A broader apology of people with firsthand by Prime Minister Tomiichi Alice Gollin knowledge of Japan’s duplicity, Murayama in 1995 conceded that this campaign is bearing fruit. “through its colonial rule and Chairman invasion,” Japan had caused One example is a major campaign “tremendous damage and An article published in The New underway to cast the blame for suffering to the people of many York Times on November 26, the terrible destruction of Manila countries, particularly to those of 1945 reported that Lt. Gen. and the slaughter of a huge Asian nations.” Shiyoku Kuo, who was in charge number of its residents directly of POW and Internment camps on on the U.S. forces invading the Those of us who were there Luzon from October1944 to city. during that terrible war are all January 1945, testified in the war that remains of the collective crimes trials of General A documentary now being made memory of Japan’s cruelty. It is Yamashita that conditions were is intended to rehabilitate General incumbent upon us to speak up “good” in Cabanatuan and Santo Yamashita, who was executed as and set the record straight at Tomas camps. Unfortunately, a war criminal in part for the every opportunity, and in every internees in Santo Tomas were Manila Massacre. It has been It has case where Japan-apologists seek dying of malnutrition at a rate of been optioned for showing in the to distort the record. 1 or 2 a day, an increasing rate U.S. by our own PBS network, a that in December passed 1% of government and subscriber Angus Lorenzen the population each month. sponsored operation. The Commander, BACEPOW accompanying article by Peter General Kuo testified that, Parsons describes the actual “Sanitary conditions and hospital conditions with which General facilities appeared good and that MacArthur was faced when the inmates appeared well fed recapturing the city, a far and adequately clothed. He added different story from the one now BACEPOW that he did not believe camp being told by the Japan Bay Area Civilian Ex- staffs had advanced notice of his apologists. Prisoners of War. visits of inspection.” (Santo Membership is open to all Tomas records show that on Exacerbating this situation is the former prisoners October 23 the commandant demanded special activities from of the Japanese, their the internees to prepare for the families, and friends. visit on October 24, and to show There is an active proper “respect”.) He also, descendents group. “…denied receiving any reports www.bacepow.net of mistreatment of prisoners or internees either from the camp Commander, Angus authorities or from the inmates Lorenzen themselves”.

And so began the great whitewash of Japan’s wartime record that continues today. Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 15 War to 998. Of the 1,648 missing of the Elbe Marker, which was dedi- pow-mia and unaccounted-for personnel, 90% cated in 1995 in honor of the 50th were lost in Vietnam or in areas of anniversary of the end of World War Cambodia and Laos under Vietnam’s II. Each year the Russian Ambassa- wartime control: Vietnam–1,277 (VN- dor organizes a ceremony to recog- 469, VS-808); Laos–311; Cambodia– nize the U.S.-Russian Alliance in the 53; PRC territorial waters–7; 450+ War. The ceremony was followed by over-water losses are among 630 a reception at the Russian Embassy DPMO lists as No Further Pursuit. hosted by Ambassador Kislyak hon- oring the veterans. Other DPMO rep- Soldier missing from WWII resentatives at the ceremony were Lt The Department of Defense POW/ Col Michael Allison and Ms. Svetlana Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) Shevchenko of DPMO’s Joint Com- PNC John Edwards announced that the remains of a U.S. mission Support Division and Dr. serviceman, missing since World War James G. Connell Jr., Acting Execu- Chairman II, have been identified and are be- tive Secretary of the U.S.-Russia Joint 889 Randall Road ing returned to his family for burial Commission on POW/MIAs. Niskayuna, NY 12309-4815 with full military honors. (518) 393-3907 phone & fax Research in the Balkans Army Pvt. William Yawney, 23, of From March 4-17, a DPMO research Americans Accounted For Freemansburg, Pa., was buried on team traveled to Belgrade, Serbia, to There are now 1,648 personnel listed May 25, in Bethlehem, Pa. On June conduct two weeks of archival re- by the Defense POW/Missing Person- 15, 1944, as part of an Allied strate- search and interviews to gather in- nel Office (DPMO) as missing and un- gic goal to secure the Mariana Is- formation in an on-going effort to accounted-for from the Vietnam War. lands, U.S. forces were ordered to resolve 236 outstanding cases in the DPMO recently posted the account- occupy Saipan. After a month of former Yugoslavia from the World War ing for Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class intense fighting, enemy forces con- II. They met with archivists, inter- Michael B. Judd, USN, from OH, listed ducted a final attack on the 105th viewed historians, researchers, wit- KIA/BNR on June 30, 1967 in South Infantry Regiment (IR), 27th Infantry nesses, and journalists, and visited Vietnam. His remains were recovered Division’s (ID) position. During these four archival institutions, including June 25, 2012, and identified Feb- attacks, elements of the 105th IR sus- the Serbian Ministry of Defense Mili- ruary 27, 2013. Major Howard V. tained heavy losses, killing and in- tary Archives. More than 1,000 files Andre, Jr., USAF, from TN, and Major juring more than 900 servicemen. As were reviewed from key archival col- James E. Sizemore, USAF, from CA, a result of these attacks Yawney was lections. The team collected specific were both listed as KIA/BNR in Laos reported killed in action. information on five cases as well as on July 8, 1969, while flying an A- contextual and broad material for all 26A on a night armed-reconnaissance Soldiers missing from Korea 236 cases. Analysts will translate mission over Xieng Khoang Province. Since February 3, the Department of and analyze the collected informa- Their remains were recovered June Defense POW/Missing Personnel Of- tion in the coming months and apply 1, 2010, and identified on March 25, fice has announced the identifica- that knowledge in preparation for 2013. The number of Americans an- tions of 13 servicemen that were for- future investigations throughout the nounced by DPMO as returned and merly missing from the Korean War. Balkans. identified since the end of the Viet- These remains were recovered either nam War in 1975 is now 935. An- by US teams that operated in North Research in Italy other 63 US personnel, recovered by Korea until 2005; or they were re- From March 10-26, a small team of the US and ID’d before the end of mains that were exhumed from the DPMO personnel conducted field the war, bring the official total of “Punch Bowl” cemetery in Hawaii; or research and investigations in south- remains repatriated from the Vietnam they were remains that were turned ern Italy. The team researched spe- over to the US Government by the cific incidents in Castelnuovo di North Koreans between 1991 and Porto, Riano, Crispiano, Laviano, 1993. Cancello ed Arnone, and Fondi. They Captured/Missing: also met with the staff of the Italian US Service member captured 68th Anniversary of Meeting on the State Archives of Salerno, regarding while supporting combat opera- Elbe historical documents that may be tions: On April 25th, DPMO Principal helpful in the resolution of both air Army Spc. Bowe R. Bergdahi, 27, Deputy Alisa Stack laid a wreath at and ground losses in the area. The June 30,2009, Afghanistan Arlington National Cemetery marking team also met with museum officials the 68th anniversary of the Meeting in the areas surrounding Anzio re- garding missing Americans lost dur- Ex-POW Bulletin on the Elbe of U.S. and Soviet sol- diers at Torgau, Germany, in 1945. ing the campaign from Anzio to Rome July/August 2013 The ceremony was held at the Spirit during World War II. 16 ing his parachute decent. When My name is Nina Newton Pace. My he awoke he noticed bullet holes father was Frank M. “Tex” Newton in his parachute. When he landed who was in Stalag Luft III. I am he was handed over to the Ger- searching for an extraordinarily kind events man Army. He spent nearly a gentleman in The Netherlands. I’ve year in captivity and was eventu- looked through mother’s addresses Aug. 21-25, 2013. The 106th Infan- ally freed by General Patton’s 3rd and cannot find his phone number try Division Association Annual Army. SSGT Kenneth T. Lockhart or address. His name is Ben although I may have Reunion will be held in New Orleans, will be 90 this August. We are VanDrogenbeck, not spelled it correctly. I have an LA. All veterans and families are in- planning a special birthday for original Stalag Luft book which was vited. For more information, contact: Ken. Family members will be Herb Sheaner, President, PO Box given to my dad and I’d like Ben to coming from all over the coun- have it. Also, to tell Ben that my 140535, Dallas, TX 75214; (214) 823- try. The “Cake Boss” is going 3003; [email protected]. mother passed away on January 14, to make a cake shaped like a B- 2012. Anything you can do to con- 24. Ken is one of a fast declin- Oct. 1-6, 2013. The 30th Annual nect me with Ben would be appreci- Mukden Survivors and Descendents ing group of survivors of WWII, ated. My home phone is 512-524- reunion will be held in Hamburg, PA. and B-24 aircrew members. Do 2018. Sincerely, Nina Newton Pace; Anyone interested in more informa- you happen to know other B24 [email protected]. tion please contact the hosts, Terry Aircrew members that are still and Dawne Clay ( Wayne Miller’s alive in the NY/NJ/PA area? Re- I’m looking for information daughter). Dawne’s Email address is gards, Steve Surat, 106 Franklin about my grandfather, JC Garrett. [email protected]. Home ad- Ave., Hawthorne, NJ 07506; 973- (Some records show him as JD dress is: Dawne and Terry Clay, 751 949-3104. Garrett). He was captured on Garfield Rd, Mohrsville, PA 19541. Corregidor, May 7, 1942, serving Home telephone # 610-926-0667. Seeking Information on Siegburg, with the 192nd Tank Battalion. He Germany. Michaelsburg Abbey / was first held in Bilibid, then October 3-6, 2013. The 6th Bomb Stalag 6 G – the Lazaret/ Hospital transferred to Japan on the Group (BG), Tinian Island, 1944-45. / Monastery / Benedictine Monks th Hellship Clyde Maru in July, 1943. 25 Reunion will be held in Milwau- and Nuns / on a High Hill kee, WI. Contacts: Rob Ritter (414) There he was held in Fukuoka #1 overlooking the City. WALDBROL and #17. He returned to San Fran- 380-7888, [email protected] or Loris , GERMANY – Liberated in April, Forsman, [email protected]. cisco on the Simon Bolivar Oct. 1945. I am looking for anyone 21, 1945. I appreciate any help you who was a prisoner or knows Sept. 21, 2013. Second Annual can give me. Aaron L. Dupuy 225- anything about Siegburg or National POW-MIA Recognition 777-3410; Day, sponsored by Rolling Thunder Waldbrol , Germany during WW2. [email protected]. Alabama Chapter #1 will be held at The location of the POW Camp had many different names but it the State Capitol in Montgomery, AL, I am writing a story about my step- was NOT the Stalag 6G in Bonn , 11AM. For more information, contact: father Willis Earl Bain who was a Don Westwood, Chapter President, Germany . Part of the Monastery POW in Stalag III-C (37 miles east 11963 Balsam Ct., Spanish Fort, AL was a hospital for wounded of Berlin - now Gorzow), who was 36527; [email protected]. German soldiers. Another part captured at the Battle of Mortain in and barracks were used for the August 1944. He was captured in wounded Allied prisoners. In August and escaped from the Stalag addition to wounded combat on New Year’s Eve ’44/’45 with two soldiers a lot of wounded Army other men. They traveled from looking Airmen were brought there when Gorzow to Naples, Italy and caught their planes were shot down. The the S/S/ Mariposa (Matson Lines) on Airmen that were well enough 8 April ’45 to Boston. I am trying to for eventually went to Dulag-Luft. locate the two men who escaped and From there maybe they all went traveled with him. Please contact me My Father In-Law, SSGT Kenneth to Stalag Luft 3 or maybe to many at: Caroline Kennedy T. Lockhart, was a tailgunner on different Stalags. If you have any [email protected] - 843.705.5654. a B24 Liberator in WWII. His information, I would really plane was shot down on a bomb- appreciate being able to talk with ing mission over Germany Sep- you. My email address is: tember 11, 1944. He was injured [email protected] and my phone while bailing out of the burning number is 786 768 2288. Thank Ex-POW Bulletin fuselage. He blacked out dur- you, Jean Dasburg. July/August 2013 17 and including his own letters, Saint, Hero, POW: recollections by family, POWs and others who had known him, Emil Joseph Kapaun his actions, devotion, and ethic. by Alice A. Booher According to the official U.S. It has been an Army, Chaplaincy and Cavalry bi- extraordinary ographies, Captain Kapaun did journey by myriad extraordinary things for any stan- his fellow soldiers; was captured dards and for twice; refused to take a break all concerned. from carrying stretchers during Emil Joseph their forced march north; moved Kapaun was repeatedly under fire to rescue born on Holy wounded from the no-man’s land prison and sustaining their exist- Thursday be- outside the battalion perimeter; ence remains legendary. One of fore Easter Sunday, April 20, 1916 negotiated with the enemy for his final acts of defiance was con- in rural Pilsen, Kansas, of Czech the safety of wounded Ameri- ducting an Easter Sunrise service immigrant parents Enos and cans; physically intervened to in 1951 (his shawl from that ser- Elizabeth Kapaun. He had one stop an execution; and rejected vice would be held by President brother, Eugene, born in 1924, and multiple opportunities to escape Obama in the Oval Office in 2013). they learned to fix farm imple- and instead volunteered to stay He died in enforced isolation at ments, a skill that would help and care for wounded. Officially age 35 on May 23, 1951 and was Emil as a POW. After high school, listed as MIA, he would remain a buried in a common, unmarked Emil graduated Conception Ab- POW for 7 months in the grave near the filthy prison death bey seminary college in June Sambukol and Pyoktong POW house “hospital” by the banks of 1936, attended Kenrick Theologi- camps during which time he the Yalu River. The first CONUS cal Seminary where he was or- tended for the sick and wounded, Memorial Mass was said for him dained in June 1940, and served built fires against guards orders, on July 29, 1953 in Wichita at St. as an auxiliary chaplain for the Mary Cathedral, and then another Herington Army Air Field and the nearly a year later, attended by Roman Catholic Diocese of family and former POWs, at which Wichita. Joining the Army in time his fellow POWs presented 1944, he was sent Camp Wheeler, small treasures: a small missal GA and then to India and served used by Kapaun in camp; the in the Burma Theater (CBI). Re- white cross from his helmet; and turning CONUS in May 1946, he a check for $8,300, from the Fa- was discharged, earned a MA in ther Kapaun Memorial Fund education from Catholic Univer- launched in prison camp. sity in 1948, and reenlisted as a chaplain in the Army in Septem- When three fellow POWs (Joseph ber 1948. He was assigned as O’Connor, Felix McCool and chaplain to the 1st Cavalry Divi- Ralph Nardella) had walked from sion (and 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry North to South Korea as part of Regiment) in Japan and Korea and prisoner exchange (“Operation taken POW during the Battle of Big Switch”), they carried with Unsan on November 2, 1950. Ex- them a crude hand-carved, nearly traordinary commemoration 4’ tall wooden crucifix carved for and personal details of his life are fashioned iron sheet and roofing POW camp services by fighter pi- described in The Story of Chap- tin into vessels to launder the lot Major Gerald (Gerry) Fink, a lain Kapuan: Patriot Priest of the wounded’s clothing and purify Jewish Marine in his memory, Korean Conflict, written by Father drinking water, led prayers and and subsequently used by POW Arthur Tonne at the request of spiritual services. He became so Nardella in services. Immedi- Bishop Mark K. Carroll of Wichita adept at stealing food for fellow ately on repatriation briefing at POWs on “ration runs” that he Freedom Village in 1953, the Ex-POW Bulletin was known as “The Good Thief, POWs turned to the assembled July/August 2013 with great affection by the other correspondents and began the 18 POWs. His leadership while in first of decades of presentations Saint, cont’d... they and other POWs made con- cerning the heroism of fellow POW Chaplain Kapaun. The cross eventually returned to Wichita, and myriad community memo- rials in Kapaun’s name began [e.g., churches, schools, libraries, Army barracks (in 1955, now Kaiserslautern’s Air Station in Germany)]. Efforts within the saved hundreds of fellow POWs placed during the Battle of Unsan, Church commenced immediately by stealing food and boiling wa- to have that gun knocked aside in 1953 to canonize Kapaun, re- ter to stave off dysentery. Many by Kapaun who then lifted Miller sulting in 1993 with him being inside and outside the Pentagon out of the ditch. The Pentagon elevated to “Servant of God”, the [such as former POW Mike Dowe again denied the MOH due to second of four stages to being who wrote an eyewitness account “lack of substantiating evidence”, named a Saint. The Vatican con- of Kapuan’s heroism for the Sat- but Latham knew how to gather tinues investigation into possible urday Evening Post} continued the data from National Archives, and canonization. cause, even writing up medal rec- did so and invited former POWs ommendations which were un- to record their stories. In 2009, successfully en- Army Secretary Pete Geren dorsed by many named Kapuan for the MOH, and in the military hi- the tedious legislative process erarchy. commenced to carve an excep- Kapaun’s MOH tion to the rule that the act had was denied by the to have occurred less than 5 years Army on the ba- before. Secretary of Defense Leon sis it was against Panetta, encouraged by many the rules to give politicians on behalf of Kapaun’s a MOH to a POW, aging POW friends, signed off but the barriers and sent it to the White House. began to fall, [e.g. President Obama made the deci- in 2002, Vietnam sion and in December 2012, War POW Rocky Emil’s baby brother Gene’s widow, Versace, executed Helen, the last living family mem- in 1968 for resist- ber to have known the Chaplain, ing his commu- got the call from the White Kapaun was also immediately nist captors, was awarded military recognition for awarded the specific acts of bravery, includ- MOH]. ing a Bronze Star for heroism on November 1, 1950 near Kumchon In a Korean Con- where he rescued a wounded sol- flict oral history dier despite intense enemy fire project by En- (the next day he was captured, es- glish professor caped and recaptured). Proposed Bill Latham out contemporaneously for the of West Point, Medal of Honor (MOH), he was Kapaun’s name instead posthumously awarded surfaced and re- the Distinguished Service Cross. surfaced in the But his fellow POWs and many stories of POWs others including a vast array of Peterson, politicians, were not satisfied, Esensten and Dowe. There was the andEx-POW for the Bulletin next 60 years, they story of a wounded POW Herbert Ex-POW Bulletin wouldSept/Oct pursue 2012 recognition in the Miller of Kapaun at whose head July/August 2013 18form of the MOH. Early on, camp an enemy rifle barrel had been 19 physicians testified to his having frail mother in Washington, and low Chinese; the shooting Saint, cont’d... with his siblings and all their stopped and they negotiated a scrubbed kids in Sunday dress on safe surrender saving those American lives.

The following day, April 12, 2012, they regrouped at the hallowed white marble corridors of the commemorative exhibit area of the Pentagon, the Hall of Heroes, where POW and now MOH wearer, Chaplain Emil Kapuan, was in- ducted to join the ranks of many House with the caveat that the the front row, standing tall and other POWs from various con- spring ceremony would include very proud, accepted the MOH flicts, in a fete witnessed by his fellow POWs. from the President. And right be- remaining family and many of hind, spouses and widows of his fellow POWs. Fellow-Kansan, Thus, it was on a lovely April 11, many of the POWs who served Secretary of Defense Hagel, with 2013, that they assembled in with Kapaun, with names like assorted other high ranking offi- Washington. Those many POWs, Marckmann, Nardella, Mayo, and cials, noted that he had a pre- friends and family in and out of POWs with names such as Miller, pared speech which he would not the tiny Marion County, KS town, Dowe, Richardson, Cavagnaro, deliver in deference to the audi- who had so long worked to carry McGreevey, Wood and Gray, ence. But Hagel summed it up by on the memory of “Father Emil”, joined by a significant number of noting that “courage and charac- were a bit incredulous, but it was military brass and clergy. The ter” are the “two indispensable a quietly joyous gathering. Wash- President provided limited re- elements of a person’s life”, and ington is beautiful in the Spring marks, but noted the huge sup- that the week’s events were not and the White House is a heady port packet that had accompa- just praise for the acts of Father place, no matter the politics or nied the nomination, and refer- Kapaun but for the man he was. event; so is meeting the President And perhaps because it was a ter- and First Lady of the U.S. (Obama), rific story in a high profile week, or Army Chief of Staff (GEN Ray national media picked up on in- Odierno) or Secretary of Defense terviews with many of the attend- (Chuck Hagel). But when it is to ing Korean Conflict former POWs fulfill a decades old personal serving to spread the word in cel- dream, on so very many levels, ebration of the 60th anniversary it is beyond special. of the Korean Conflict.

Gene’s eldest son, Ray, with his Of the roughly 25,000 military shock of white hair and open face, non-combatant chaplains who now the patriach of the clan (now have served in 270 wars and com- living in Atlanta and soon to enced several incidents including bat engagements since 1775, move to Seattle), stood in for his the actions that saved Herb Kapaun joins 6 others in having Miller; and another when Kapaun been awarded the Medal of Honor. Ex-POW Bulletin spotted a wounded Chinese of- And then of course there is that July/August 2013 ficer, with whom he pleaded and other golden road that may lead 20 convinced to call out to his fel- to canonization. Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 21 Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 22 those provide by the Post-9/11 GI Bill. News As part of the MSPP overall effort, the 2013 annual event enlisted two mili- tary figurative and literal stars, GEN Briefs George Casey, and BG Rhonda Cornum. GEN Casey, commander of multina- tional forces in Iraq from 2004-2007 Psychological and then 36th Army Chief of Staff, re- tired in 2011 after 41 years of active Professionalism and service, but remains committed to the Veterans Harvard faculty, notes that more troops. Says Casey:” We have a volun- than 1/3rd of the returning 1.5 mil- teer force and if we’re going to sus- by Alice A. Booher lion troops returning from the wars tain it, soldiers and their families have in Iraq and Afghanistan are diag- to believe we care about them and are The most glit- nosed with anxiety, depression and there for them”. At a two-day event in- tery of the re- substance abuse disorders and ex- cluding ongoing substantive discus- cent events was perience residuals of brain trauma. sions with the current class, Generals billed as being Casey and Cornum met with the stu- “In Honor of Vet- In preparing professionals to meet dents and addressed the gala. erans, Serving those mental health needs, specifi- Cornum presented the compelling sa- Those Who cally, MSPP offers a fully accred- lient data about the Comprehensive Serve Us”, but by ited experimental education pro- Soldier Fitness program started under any standards gram, an integrated immersion their military watch which continues the Massachu- graduate psychology program to now within all services, with signifi- setts School of students who include veterans and cant assistance in identifying and ad- Professional their spouses, who will in turn take dressing problems from within and Psychology (MSPP) has established their degrees to veterans and the without the military, a significant prac- an ongoing, growing and much military. For example, in the current titioner group of which includes psy- broader program within and without class, half are of this constituency; chologists. It makes sense to specially their walls as a national model pro- and in 2012, MSPP students pro- train these to better know their con- viding mental health support to vet- vided 2,345 hours of clinical ser- stituencies by using some of their own. erans, their families and active duty vices to veterans in VA hospitals In turn, MSPP recognized Cornum‘s personnel. Combining teacher and and other veteran related settings. experience in the military to include student constituencies, trainers and MSPP students do fieldwork in 250 being shot down, injured and POW, en- evaluators, MSPP is making some re- hospitals, clinics, schools, busi- during both physical and psychologi- alistic progress in professionally and nesses and non-profit organiza- cal assault, and rebounding thereaf- practically addressing psychological tions. In 2009, MSPP became an ap- ter to lead troops in a variety of fo- needs, and identifying both ques- proved Institution of Higher learn- rums including commander of the vast tions and answers, for the veteran ing under the Yellow Ribbon Pro- hospital at Landstuhl to developing and military communities. To assess gram of the US Department of Vet- and perfecting the CSF. At the May the multiple psychological impacts erans Affairs (DVA) which is in- 2013 Boston gala, Cornum received on the individual and aggregate mem- tended to attract former service the MSPP Mental Health Humanitarian bers of the services as well as help personnel interested in mental Award presented by General Casey resolve the associated problems, re- health career careers [MSPP now and Dr. Covino. The gala itself to in- quires a base of training and insight. has 5 doctoral candidates in that clude a silent auction served as a program]. Since 2011 MSPP created charitable fund raising tool for the on- To address these concerns, MSPP, the Train Vet to Treat Vets program going veterans related projects, includ- which opened shop in 1974, now which has received funding from offers a litany of 12 separate options the Commonwealth of Massachu- for Masters and Doctoral degrees in setts for the past two years, and a applied psychology, and covers a soon to be launched military cur- wide variety of societal constituen- riculum. Says Eu Choo, a USMC vet- cies ranging from children to prison- eran and current MSPP doctoral ers, but the school has opted to bring student: “As a veteran, I am able to special focus to and specific regard reflect on my personal experience, to military. incorporate it into my learning and bring a unique perspective to the The MSPP President, Dr. Nicolas classroom”. The Yellow Ribbon Ex-POW Bulletin Covino, whose own background in- Scholarship Fund Program raises cludes 20 years at Boston’s Beth Is- matching funds to supplement July/August 2013 rael Deaconess Medical Center and 23 triotic favorites. Afterwards, we were news, continued treated to a BBQ dinner on the grounds beside Marine One – the ing scholarships and outreach such presidential helicopter. as their Janice Furtado Memorial Fund (named for one of the MSPP stu- dents who died at age 32 after 8 years in the USAF), which supports the Train Vets to Treat Vets program. Their 33rd Commencement in Boston featured Congresswoman combat veteran Ladda Tammy” Duckworth. hosted by President Nixon to honor The MSPP professional, practical psy- our sacrifice. chological programs for and involv- ing veterans continues with great “President Nixon was a hero to us. class and deserves to be saluted He will always be revered by us as a smartly – and the most genuine and group because he got us home.” said Friday began with a business meet- positive salute would be if other in- retired U.S. Marine Capt. Orson ing at which we determined to con- stitutions of higher learning will emu- Swindle, who spent six years and four tinue our tradition of reunions – the late the example. months in Hanoi prison camps. The next one in 2015. After a day of Richard Nixon Foundation pulled relaxation and tours, we returned to out all the stops to make us feel as the Library in the evening for our NAMPOWS Celebrate welcome this year as the President black-tie dinner, this time in a rep- did in 1973. lica of the East Room of the White 40 Years of Freedom House, with our friends and patrons, by Bob Certain The reunion began Wednesday with Ross and Margot Perot, in atten- arrivals, a gathering dance. in a well-stocked and very popular Saturday was Ready Room, and an another day of opening dinner touring with around the pool of friends and the Hyatt Regency ended with a in Newport Beach farewell ban- (no one fell in!). quet at the ho- tel. As we left On Thursday noon to return to we went by motor our homes on coach with a motor- Sunday, we cycle, police and went with renewed friendships with fire truck escort to men who had lived together during the Nixon Library. During ceremonies the worst of times but who have there we were treated to a missing made our lives into the best of times On Wednesday, May 22 over 200 man flyover, a wreath-laying cer- in the last four decades. May God NAM POWs, plus our wives and other emony and tours of a special mu- continue to bless us with good family members seum exhibit health, and may God bless America. and guests, re- that focuses united for a three- on Operation day celebration at Homecoming. the Richard Nixon Dozens of Presidential Library American & Museum to re- flags rose member the 40th above our anniversary of the heads as a star-studded White band played House dinner “Stars and Stripes” and “The Star Spangled Banner” as we Ex-POW Bulletin processed into the museum. Tony July/August 2013 Orlando was present to lead us in Photos courtesy of Bob Certain 24 “Tie A Yellow Ribbon” and other pa- and Jim Lollar make it a crime to don the medals news, continued American Heroes and ribbons that soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen are awarded for COLA Act combat actions. The legislation Ex-POW Recognition passed 309 to three. May 22nd, the Introduced by Rep. Jon Runyan of Senate passed the companion bill PNC Jack Warner and his daughter New Jersey, The American Heroes S.210 by unanimous consent and sent Jr. Vice Commander Pam Eslinger trav- COLA Act would make the annual it to the President for his signature. eled to Muskogee, OK on April increase to veterans’ disability 13,2013 to an Ex-POW Recognition compensation rates and other The Supreme Court struck down the Program and Luncheon. It was hosted benefits permanent by tying the previous version of the law last June, by the VA Mecial Center in Muskogee. increase to the cost of living ad- when it ruled that lying about mili- tary heroics was constitutionally pro- justment for Social Security ben- tected speech unless there was in- Then on April 19, 2013 they traveled efits. to Barksdale Air Force Base, LA for tent to gain some benefit or some- an Ex-POW, MIA, Purple Heart, World thing of value by fraud. Congress HVAC Chairman Jeff Miller intro- followed the roadmap laid out by War II Program and Luncheon. The duced a manager’s amendment program was awesome, and this was the U.S. Supreme Court when they to H.R. 570 that would sunset the the 34th one they have hosted and the overturned the original Stolen Valor bill’s round-down authority after 2nd largest. Act last year. In their writings, the five years while reinvesting sav- high court suggested any future leg- This was hosted by the 2nd Bomb ings associated with the bill in islation had to be narrower in focus Wing and Retiree Activities Office. programs aimed at improving than just to penalize people for We did get to see some of our fel- benefits for disabled veterans. simple lying, which they ruled as pro- low AXPOW members there. It was Miller’s amendment enjoys wide- tected speech in a 6-3 decision. great to see them and I reminded spread support among veterans them of the convention in Arlington. service organizations. Under the new bill, it’s a federal We sure hope they make it. crime to benefit from knowingly “This bipartisan legislation would lying about receiving certain significantly increase the special valorous military medals and awards. Missouri Medals monthly compensation payments Maximum punishment would be a made to our most severely disabled fine of up to $100,000 and up to Available to all Missouri veterans. These are veterans who are one year in prison for each offense. Veterans (Past & Present missing limbs, totally blind, deaf, or who are so disabled that they require It does not apply to every medal. Residents) the need of special care in the home, Specifically covered are the Medal all as a result of military service. of Honor, service crosses, Silver Star, The Missouri National Guard Veter- Clearly, it is our duty to ensure that Purple Heart and combat badges ans Recognition Program presents these most deserving service-dis- such as Combat Infantryman’s Badge, medallions, medals, and certificates abled veterans are well-cared for, Combat Action Badge, Combat to veterans who served in World War and my amendment to H.R. 570 will Medical Badge, Combat Action I (April 6, 1917 - November 11, 1918); be a significant step in that direc- Ribbon, or Combat Action Medal. World War II (December 7, 1941 – De- tion.” – Chairman Jeff Miller Claiming to have received one of the cember 31, 1946; Jubilee of Liberty awards becomes fraudulent if the (participated in the Battle of “With the passage of the American liar obtains or tries to obtain money, Normandy (June 6, 1944 – Septem- Heroes COLA Act, veterans will never property or some other tangible ber 30, 1944); Korea (June 27, 1950 again have to depend on Congres- benefit. For example, claiming to be – January 31, 1955), and VietNam sional action to receive an increase a combat veteran on a job (February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975). to the cost of living adjustment they application or to receive a The veteran can be a legal resident have more than earned through their government contract set aside for a at the time of application or was a service. Instead, these increases will veterans would be fraud, as would legal resident at the time he/she en- become automatic from year to receiving unearned veterans’ tered or was discharged from the year.” – Rep. Jon Runyan disability or health benefits if any military or at the time of his/her of the combat-related awards used death. Spouse or Eldest Living Survi- to qualify for those benefits were vor of the eligible veteran can also Stolen Valor falsely claimed. apply. For more information contact Missouri Veterans Recognition Pro- On May 20, 2013, the House of Rep- gram, P.O. Box 1808, Jefferson City, Ex-POW Bulletin MO 65102, 1-866-834-3431, resentatives overwhelmingly voted www.moguard.com/moguard-vet- for the latest version of the Stolen July/August 2013 eran-awards.html. Valor Act H.R.258, a law that will 25 There are some vantage (e.g., including standard pay, news, continued commercially allowances and special pay, allot- produced ments and retired and both combat books available related and veteran disability com- from sources pensation). (3) The Health Care Ad- The Military (and such as “Mili- vantage (e.g., TRICARE (in all its per- Veterans) Advantage tary Hand- mutations) and veterans); (4) The Ben- books” for in- efits Advantage (e.g., military travel by Alice A. Booher stance, which and lodging rights, legal rights, en- published in titlements and benefits, veterans ben- For decades, the question has been December 2012 efits claims and appeals, burial and asked as to where you might depend (for 2013), a 79 page handbook, surviving family benefits); (5) The Edu- on finding accurate, responsive, in- 2013 Benefits for Veterans and De- cation Advantage (e.g., money for formative data on how to obtain your pendents. They have similar sepa- school in and out of active duty and well-earned military service benefits, rate books available on other sub- by branch of service); (6) The Career whether you are still in the military jects such as 2013 Veterans Advantage (e.g., professional devel- or now out. Some folks go to their Healthcare, which are available for opment in service, deployment and Veterans Service Organization (VSO); about $25 each, but are usually mobilization, post-deployment, relo- others call or visit their local VA Re- printed on demand only. cation); (7) The Transition Advantage gional Office, Medical Center or Out- (e.g., preparation, successful transi- patient Clinic or a nearby military For my personal money, probably the tion to a civilian career, employment facility. All of these are good re- best, most comprehensive and cost resources, continuing to serve (Re- sources, but there are now some ad- effective single volume now avail- serve, Guard), records and awards); ditional written alternatives which able is that which was written by (8) The Family Advantage (e.g., “on the may be helpful. Having read all of Coast Guard CPO veteran and expe- move”, career development, educa- those major works currently avail- rienced counselor Terry Howell, Man- tion, training for spouses, the mili- able, we will look at some new op- aging Editor for “Benefits for tary child, family support during de- tions. First, the Office of Public and Military.com”, published as a coop- ployment, military support organiza- Intergovernmental Affairs within the erative effort between Military.com, tions and wounded warrior and Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) the largest military membership or- post-traumatic stress resources). has long published a “Federal Ben- ganization with over 10 million mem- efits for Veter- bers and its parent company, It is the book that most comprehen- ans, Depen- Monster.com, the largest career and sively and intricately addresses the dents and Sur- job website; and printed by Naval In- myriad questions of both active duty vivors” book- stitute Press. The 387 page volume, and veterans in all components, tran- let. It comes out in May 2013, is endorsed by sitions and circumstances, and con- out each year, former DVA Secretary Tony Principi tains listings of resource after re- including acro- who states: “Every service member source; comparative factors and de- nyms and chap- and veteran should read this book. tailed specific contact points for ters on each im- It is the definitive guide to making each. It has an excellent Index, and portant area of the most of your benefits”. Entitled the chapters are so well developed entitlement and “The Military Advantage: The and structured that the questions lists other fed- Military.com Guide to Military and (both broad and very specific) are eral benefits Veterans Benefits”, it has virtually clearly stated and the numerous com- and facilities. every nuance of every possible ques- plex alternative resolutions are com- The most recent 188 page issue came tion, answer and appropriate data prehensively and understandably out in August 2012 (for 2012). Na- source catego- laid out, often in chart form so the tional Headquarters has a supply of rized into ar- options are more visibly comparable. these books available for free. Just eas. (1) The call or email. The online edition is Money Advan- Priced at $27.95 for industrial pa- available at www.va.gov/opa/publi- tage (e.g., dis- perback (eBook also available), with cations/benefits_book.asp. One ad- counts, debt little extraneous verbiage, it fully vantage is that being online, you can and credit, covers the standard veterans benefits pull up and even print the specific savings plans questions plus new sections geared segment in which you require infor- for combat to the record numbers of members mation. zones, tax and transitioning to civilian life. It is a home loans, superior guide for active duty mili- life insurance tary, veterans, retirees, their family and thrift sav- members, those who treasure, live Ex-POW Bulletin ings plans); (2) with, care for and seek to help them. July/August 2013 The Pay Ad- 26 possibly attacking Cuba was interrogation sessions. We were all tapering off. The day before we living in solitary confinement during were scheduled to redeploy to that period, and while we saw none Your Cannon however coincided with the of our fellow Americans, we commu- early return of several members of nicated by tapping on the wall. It was the Fourth Wing and their F-105’s. a slow way to communicate, but there Stories Pilots selected for the first was really little else to do, and com- operational wing of F-105’s were not munication was absolutely mandatory slouches. As I walked into the for a successful resistance effort Seymour Officers Club that evening, over the next several years. Imagine he ookie aper I noted the tempo in the bar area my surprise then when I learned that T C C had increased, substantially, to the Bob Purcell was indeed alive. Al- In Honor of Col Robert B. “Percy” point where things were beginning though suffering multiple injuries, he Purcell, Prisoner of War: North to unravel. The leader of the was living alone in a cell not far from Vietnam (July 1965 – February festivities was not only at the center mine. I thought I would see him within 1973) of the action, but also wearing a weeks. Little did I realize we would raincoat. I inquired as to who he was. not be face to face for more than Thanks to Dr. Hal Kushner for The immediate response, “Man, that seven years. getting this to us. is the one and only Bob Purcell.” Little Reprint courtesy of the Air Force did I know that in the years to follow, Our Vietnamese captors were com- Association I would come to know my first mitted not only to force military in- impression of a hard-drinking, loud, formation from us by any method boisterous happy-go-lucky fighter possible, but also to put us under pilot was only part of the story. There prolonged periods of extended was another side to Percy, and the physical hardship, which could in- Bob Purcell I came to know in North clude beatings, at times on a near Vietnam was indeed a “one and only” daily basis, to force us into submis- whose courage, dedication and sion. Clearly they were looking for example for his cellmates was a weak individuals who they could turn much more accurate measure of the against the war and provide anti- man he was. American and anti-war statements. Because of strong leaders and a very Three years after Cuba was resolved, active communication system, we Bob and I were both flying missions were able to resist this coercion. We in South East Asia which consisted came to understand that it was es- of almost daily air strikes against sential that every man resist as best targets in North Vietnam and Laos. he could. We learned that each man’s The F-105, which we were both mental and physical well-being de- flying, albeit in separate squadrons, pended largely on personal morale was the primary US long range strike and spirit. For the leadership exhib- fighter at the time, and enemy air ited by such individuals as Jim defenses were formidable. When Bob Stockdale and Robbie Risner to suc- was shot down on the first SAM ceed, communication was key to our strike 27 July 1965, members of his The Cuban Missile Crisis of October resistance effort. Especially crucial, squadron said there was no 1962 provided an opportunity for me and increasingly dangerous, was to parachute. In all likelihood he was to meet then Captain Bob “Percy” ensure that the communication net killed in action, and according to his Purcell. At the time, almost every include every prisoner in the camp, flight leader Bill Hosmer, his tactical fighter in CONUS was especially those sick, injured, or in squadron held a memorial service deployed to Florida. The crisis solitary confinement at remote loca- that evening at Korat Air Base in reached its crescendo in mid- tions. Thailand. Percy wasn’t alone; six F- October, after which pilots and 105’s were lost on the initial SAM aircraft returned to their respective As one example of life in Hanoi, in strike, and while there are questions home bases. For Purcell, an early an effort to force me to write an anti- as to the selection and validity of member of the F-105 community, war letter during early 1966, our cap- the target, that is a separate story. home base was the Fourth Tactical tors did not give me anything to eat. Percy’s fate was unknown. Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air I did receive two cups of water each Force Base, North Carolina. For me, a day, but no food. Bob had gone In late November of 1965 I too was member of the 429th Tactical Fighter shot down on a mission over North Ex-POW Bulletin Squadron (F-100), home base was Vietnam, captured, and taken to the Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. July/August 2013 “Hanoi Hilton” for a rough series of The pressure and excitement of 27 tially months) in the tank. There is caper, cont’d... also the matter of giving food from one’s already meagre portion. Far through a similar drill some months more important however is consid- earlier (as had several others of the ering the impact his action had on early prisoners) and understood the recipient—a massive rise in mo- what it was all about. How did I know rale. Keeping one’s spirits up over about Percy’s experience? The small extended incarceration was the name cell they put me in was dark during of the game. Percy knew this and set the day (no light, no windows) but the standard for others to follow. I the light was on at night. The first have never forgotten his role in this night I was laying on the floor, my and have always used it as an ex- eyes apparently focused on the wall ample in explaining to others what some two feet away. I saw a small survival in North Vietnam was all arrow one inch long etched in the about. wall. My eyes followed the direction of the arrow and encountered an- I only saw Percy one other time, mid- other arrow, and then another, and 1966 when we were handcuffed to- then the name, also etched incon- gether for the infamous “parade” of spicuously in the wall, ‘Purcell’. American POW’s through downtown Clever, I thought. Here was proof for Hanoi. It was a memorable event the next guy that Percy had indeed marked by screaming masses of Viet- survived his low-level ejection. In any namese lining both sides of Main aware of his responsibility when se- case, after eight days of no food, I Street in downtown Hanoi. Before we nior, and he focused on the well-be- was moved to a new cellblock in took our first steps, he turned to me ing and morale of those junior to him. which Bob was living alone at the far and said “ . . . a parade, I love a pa- In later years, when asked how he end of the building. Several days later rade.” We survived, but I never saw overcame the torture, humiliation, I received a message via the tap code Percy up close again until we were degradation, and loneliness, his to stand by for a piece of bread dur- released some six and a half years simple response was “by taking it one ing the early afternoon when the later. His messages however, often minute, one day at a time.” As a guards were taking their siesta break. disseminated throughout the Hanoi cellmate described him, “. . . he knew I didn’t quite know what to expect. Prisoner of War communication net, the system. Captured in mid 1965 he As the afternoon grew quiet, I heard always reflected an indomitable had been through the worst of the scratching on the ceiling and dust spirit and the ideas, “We are all in worst, he gave the Vietnamese fits. and dirt were soon falling from this together. Resist the best you can, Everybody respected him.” around the single light bulb in the communicate, keep your spirits up, ceiling of my room. Soon the bulb and help those around you to do the Percy is gone now, buried with full and wire dropped down a couple of same.” military honors at Arlington National feet, which was then followed by a Cemetery. His life after release on series of long slender pieces of stale No matter the cell size, responsibil- February 12, 1973 began with check- bread. My first food in eight days! ity for leadership in North Vietnam ing out in the T-38 Freedom Flyers Through the hole where the light bulb rested with the senior ranking officer program at Randolph Air Force Base. had been, I saw the smiling face of present. When senior, Percy led his As a combination of his age and a Percy. He whispered a few words of cellmates the only way he knew how, near eight year gap in experience he encouragement, waved, and then he by example. Always upbeat, he saw joined other former POW’s in this was gone, off to get back to his cell the bright side in everything—even a special re-currency program, but he before his absence was discovered. mob scene at a parade. After seven- never flew fighters again. As a dis- teen months in solitary confinement, tant second choice, he attended the In considering this example, one he noted “One good point about be- Air War College. As a best decision, should remember that the punish- ing solo, no one ever saw me cry.” A he married Suzanne in 1977, and their ment for Bob in getting caught would product of the 1950’s, he repre- son Matthew, who at this writing is have been an immediate and severe sented the era, wild in a way pilots twenty four years old and a Texas beating of substantial proportions, frown on today. But in Hanoi, his A&M graduate, is employed in Dal- a move to a small and remote un- reputation as a professional was las. Percy retired from the Air Force lighted confinement cell too small in solid. Sometimes described as a bit in 1980 and restored VW bugs briefly which to stand (which we called the stubborn, witty, and a tough resister, before accepting employment with “tank”), most likely additional beat- he was always recognized as a team American Airlines as a Simulator In- ings, and an extended period (poten- player and loyal to the central theme structor, a position he enjoyed for Ex-POW Bulletin “Unity over self.” His credentials were fifteen years. His health began to that he could be counted on to lead decline and he suffered a serious July/August 2013 at any level. As such, he was keenly stroke in 2004 followed by a crip- 28 program from its International Fos- Fourth Tactical Fighter Wing of caper, cont’d... ter Care Program with State Depart- Seymour Johnson. The formation was ment. A unique feature of the pro- special, and the precision of such pling fall the next year. According gram is that selected children may exactness as to make many of the to his wife Suzanne, during this dif- stay at Percy’s House until they are old heads in attendance smile, not ficult period there was never a com- twenty-two years old and ready to only in approval of F-15’s at very low plaint, never a “Why me?” thing. A par- make their own way. level and the site and the ceremony tial paralysis followed, and then his and circle of old friends and family, final flight on December 6, 2009. Percy’s final departure wasn’t easy. but also in the fond memory of the Scheduled to be buried at Arlington courageous fighter pilot Robert His memory lives on not only with National Cemetery on Feb 12, 2010, Baldwin Purcell, his record as a com- those who remember and loved him, a record snow storm moved into batant and Prisoner of War, and his but also at “Percy’s House,” a foster Washington DC some days before. assorted pranks of a lifetime—to in- home designed to re-settle children His official interment was delayed clude one of his favorites, the cookie orphaned in Southeast Asia .The until April 29th, a clear and cool caper. home was financed and built by a blue sky “one-of-a-kind” spring day. successful Fort Worth builder who The Air Force he loved remembered Jon Reynolds knew and wanted to honor Percy. He this unique warrior and honored him Brig Gen, US Air Force (Ret) contacted Catholic Charities who with an F-15 Missing Man Formation 5 April 2013 studied the issue and worked out a provided by none other than the

Bill Allen, a Korean Ex-POW and life member, as well as a member of Florida Gulf Coast, has worked almost two years setting up a memorial wall in the en- trance of the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa.

Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 29 Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 30 In memory of Jack Conboy, by M/M Larry & Madeleine contributions Carl Walrath In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Jack Conboy, by Lee & Barb Pryor Renee & Dave Freilich In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Leander Pflughaupt, Linda & Keith Wyatt by Esther Heinsohn & Family In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of my husband, Clarence Linn Dingerson Karnopp, by Deloris In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of my husband, Clifford Lyndle & Sandra Claus Please send donations to: Fox, by Thelma In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of PNC Gerald Harvey, by Marion & Mary Scranton National Headquarters, 3201 East LuAnna Pritchard In memory of Wanda McNary, by Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, In memory of PNC Jim Clark, by Mark & Bernice Neisen Arlington, TX 76010. Ruth Ward In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Robert O Bowen, by Mark & Mary Ann Morrison & Family Checks must be made payable to Naomi Bowe In memory of Wanda McNary, by AXPOW or American Ex-Prisoners In memory of Thomas Cima, by his Mary & Charles Loos of War You can also make a wife, Marilyn In memory of Wanda McNary, by donation with a credit card In memory of W.R. Matheny, by Ruth Mary Ann Doellman (MasterCard or Visa). Just call 817- Ward In memory of Wanda McNary, by 649-2979. Thank you! In memory of Walter Whitcomb, by Richard & Diana Minnick Ed Slater In memory of Wanda McNary, by Thank you! In memory of Wanda McNary, by Ruth Cole We received a very generous Bob Winkeljohn In memory of Wanda McNary, by bequest from the estate of Maryan In memory of Wanda McNary, by Sherry Miller Newcombe & Bruce Eldon Johns, life members Brent & Colleen Chapman In memory of Wanda McNary, by of AXPOW. Bruce was captured in In memory of Wanda McNary, by Steve & Lisa Bruenger Manila and held 3 ½ years by the Dale & Dorothy Mixer In memory of Wanda McNary, by the Japanese. Both were very In memory of Wanda McNary, by House Family supportive of the organization. Dan & Tanna Barry In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Wanda McNary, by Wanda Anthony GENERAL FUND Dick & Debbie Lambeth & Family In memory of William Kirkbride, by In honor of Fred Rosenkoff’s 90th In memory of Wanda McNary, by Aprill Brandt Andy Schmeltz birthday, by Esther Rosensweig Don & Sharron Collins VOLUNTARY FUNDING In memory of Bernard O’Conner, by In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Fred Dewit, by Betty JoAnn Parker Donnie Barton Dewig In memory of Bruce & Maryan In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Vincent Sylvester, by Johns, by the family Earl Boone M/M Eugene Short In memory of deceased me of Co B, In memory of Wanda McNary, by Ed In memory of Vincent Sylvester, by 423 Inf, by Joseph Salerno & Carol Cramer Ralph & Livia Toscano In memory of Elmer W Gunnarson, In memory of Wanda McNary, by Brian Cleworth, Seattle WA by the Rocky Mountain Chapter Eudene Weise C Norman Gustafson, Scotch Plains In memory of Francis “Kelly” In memory of Wanda McNary, by NJ Parkinson, by Joseph Salerno Gail, Stephanie & Jennifer Oitker Colby A Davis, Canton ME In memory of Frank Plocha, my In memory of Wanda McNary, by Don Houseman, Dallas TX foxhole buddy, who still remains in Gaye Klitz Edward Wallner, Edison NJ North Korea, by Dallas Mossman In memory of Wanda McNary, by Frank & Anne Kravetz, E Pittsburgh In memory of George Sulick Sr, by Janet & Alvin Ohnemus PA the Sulick Trust In memory of Wanda McNary, by JD Ila Coble, Salisbury NC In memory of Ilava Griffin, by Edna & Nancy Albsmeyer Kachadour Avedisian, Cranston RI Ames In memory of Wanda McNary, by Kathryn Ogg, Dayton OH In memory of Ilava Griffin, by Jeff, Debby & Jessica Glas Lorraine Corey, Redding CA Glenda Shine In memory of Wanda McNary, by M/M Kenneth hook, Dayton OH In memory of Ilava Griffin, by Mary Jim, Carole, Nina, Brian & Brent Marilyn Wilson, Port Ludlow WA McClain Bachmann Maurice JA Markworth, Palmyra PA In memory of Irene Scaglione, by In memory of Wanda McNary, by Phyllis Hutchins, Centennial CO Joseph Scaglione John & Juanita Eaton Robert Smith, Tomahawk WI In memory of Jack Conboy, by In memory of Wanda McNary, by Thomas Bugner, Phoenix AZ Laura Barth Judy Wright Ex-POW Bulletin In memory of Wanda McNary, by In memory of Jack Conboy, by Lori July/August 2013 & Michael Rowling Katherine Klassing In memory of Wanda McNary, by 31 The Legacy of your love can live on after… new members National Headquarters An important way you can help en- 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 sure that the American Ex-Prisoners of War is always there for returning Arlington, TX 76010; (817) 649-2979 POWs, their families and their depen- [email protected] dents is through your will or living trust. New Members Arthur Edward Schultz It’s very simple to make a bequest to “Welcome Home” Doris Ruth the American Ex-Prisoners of War. Lakeland, FL Simply share this sentence with your CO K 423 Inf Reg 106 Inf Div attorney or financial planner and 9B Bad Orb, Prussia they can add the following to your will or living trust: “I give, devise and bequeath to the American Ex-Prison- Keith Clark ers of War, 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Dallas TX Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010, the Billie D Gilstrap Son of John sum of $______or ______percent of Dorothy Ann Clark, NAM the rest, residue and remainder of my Tucson, AZ estate.” 15AF 98 BG Please take a few minutes of your Austria, Wetzel Germany, time to help. Nurenburg Certificate of Captivity

Suitable for framing, this certificate of captivity, printed on 8½” x 11” quality paper, proudly displays your history as a prisoner of war. Each certificate background is personalized to the theater of operation. To receive this certificate from AXPOW, please order from National Headquarters. If you are ordering at Convention, you can place your order in the Merchandise Room. We will need your name, service number, branch of service, unit when captured, POW number (if known), camp names and locations. You can call 817-649-2979 or email: Ex-POW Bulletin [email protected]. July/August 2013 You may include a 32 picture with your order. taps

Please submit taps notices to: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664

ABERNATHY, Jack, 88, of until liberation by Gen. Patton. tured while serving with the 100th Oldsmar, FL died May 21, 2012. Thomas leaves his beloved wife BG, 351st BS during WWII, flying During WWII, he served with the of 66 years, Marilyn, 1 daughter, out of England. He was held in 7A 106th Inf. Div. He was captured 2 sons, 1 granddaughter and 1 and 13D until liberation by Gen. during the Battle of the Bulge. great-grandson and their fami- Patton and the 14th Armored Di- Jack was a member of the Tampa lies. Thomas was a life member vision. Bay Chapter, AXPOW. He is sur- of AXPOW and the OKAW Chap- vived by his wife, Nora, and their ter. GLENN, Charles, of Spartansburg, children. SC died recently. He served with CONBOY, John F “Jack”, 90, of the 3rd Div., 7th Reg., CO I in Eu- ARNEY, Nona M., 87, of Sun City Charlotte Harbor, FL passed away rope. After capture he was held West, Arizona, born in Union April 24, 2013. He served with the in Stalags 7A and 2B. Survivors County, South Dakota, passed 703rd BS, 445th BG, was shot down, include his wife, Julia. away April 12, 2013. Nona, widow captured and held in Gross of Athel V. Arney, was a long time Tychow, Nurnberg and Moosberg. GUNNARSON, Elmer William, member of the Agua Fria Chap- Jack is survived by his wife of 65 member of the Rocky Mountain ter, AXPOW. years, Doris, 3 children, 5 grand- Chapter, AXPOW, passed away children and 5 great-grandchil- May 18, 2013. He served with the BENNETT, Lee, 91 of St. Joseph, dren. 28th Inf. Div., 110th Inf. Reg. and MO died April 25, 2013. Lee mar- was captured in the Battle of the ried Mary Edith Woods on Febru- COULSON, Don, member of the Bulge. Elmer will be greatly ary 20, 1948. She preceded him in San Diego Chapter, AXPOW, died missed by his friends and fam- death. Lee served in the United in April 2013. He served with the ily, including his wife, Jackie, 2 States Army, where he was a POW AAC, flying out of England early sons, 4 stepchildren, 11 grand- of the Japanese at Cabanatuan in WWII; after being grounded children, 14 great-grandchildren during World War II. He also while recovering from an ear in- and 2 great-great-grandchildren. served in the Korean War. He was jury, he transferred to a ground a member of AXPOW and ADBC. unit and was captured. He will be HALL, Harry J., 89, of Tipton, IN missed by all his POW buddies. (formerly of WV) died Feb. 7, BYERLY, Ann, of Butler, MO 2013. He served with the 28th Div., passed away May 15, 2013. She EDWARDS, Clifton, 90, member 112th Inf., CO A during WWII; he was 86 and the widow of ex-POW of the Brooklyn Key Chapter, AX- was captured in the Battle of the Eldon (Cabanatuan, Bilibid, POW, passed away May 5, 2013. Bulge and held in a labor camp Tsuruga, Umeda, Bunsho). Ann During WWII, he served in the In- until liberation. He is survived by leaves 4 sons, 1 stepdaughter, 8 fantry; he was captured in the his wife of 66 years, Geraldine, 1 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild Battle of the Bulge and held in daughter, 2 granddaughters and and their families. Stalag 9B. 4 great-grandsons.

CHOATE, JAMES A., 87, of Lee’s FABRIZIO, Cosmo D., 94, of Ply- HEBERT, Lucille B., of Goffstown, Summit, MO, passed away April mouth, MA died March 25, 2013. NH died Jan. 4, 2013. She was 87. 20, 2013. He is survived by his He was captured while serving Lucille is survived by her loving wife, Margaret and other family with Patton’s 3rd Army and held husband of 67 years, Gerard members. He was an Army vet- at Stalag 12A and then IIIC. (Gunner 45th Div. 157th Inf. Cap- eran and ex-POW of World War II, Cosmo was a member of South- tured on Anzio Beachhead, 2/23/ serving in the 103rd Division in east Chapter, AXPOW. He is sur- 43; held in Stalags VII-A, VII – France. vived by his loving family, in- B), 1 son, 1 daughter, 2 grandsons cluding 1 son, 1 grandson and 1 and their families. CIMA, Thomas W., 89, of O’Fallon, great-grandson. IL died April 8, 2013. While serv- ing with the AAC during WWII, he FELLMETH, Eugene M., of Canal Ex-POW Bulletin was shot down over Yugoslavia, Fulton, OH passed away March 18, July/August 2013 captured by Germany and held 2013. He was shot down and cap- 33 member of the Fox River Valley was a life member of AXPOW and taps continued... Chapter, AXPOW. Survivors in- member of the Rocky Mountain . clude his wife of 67 years, Elsie, Chapter. She leaves her husband HERMAN, Bandy A., 91, of Wil- 2 daughters, 1 son, 4 grandchil- Bob (Ex-POW, USA, held in 7A). son, NC passed away Dec. 29, dren, 4 great-grandchildren and 2012. He was shot down on the their families. McMULLEN, Charles “Mac” of Schweinfurt Mission, captured Fresno, CA passed away Jan. 3, and held in Stalag 17B for 22 LUSK, Harold, 89, of Osage City, 2012. He was captured during the months. He leaves his wife, Sarah, KS, died February 5, 2013. Harold Battle of the Bulge while serving 3 children and 5 grandchildren joined the Air Force in 1942 where with the 106th Inf. Div. Mac is sur- and their families. he was a B-17 tailgunner. He was vived by his loving wife of 64 shot down over Germany on his years, June, 1 son, 2 daughters, 3 HOLDEN, Wesley “Chuck”, of In- 13th mission on May 8, 1943. grandchildren and1 great-grand- dependence MO, formerly of Sac- Held in a concentration camp in child. ramento, CA, died April 3, 2013. North Poland near the Baltic Sea, Chuck was on the USS Canopus he was then forced to march to MECKLE, Donald J., of West Sen- and was held at Corregidor, Ft Bavaria, and was liberated April eca, NY died Dec. 21, 2012. Dur- Mills, Cabanatuan and Bilibid. He 9, 1945. He leaves behind his wife, ing WWII, he served in the AAC, and his late wife, Daisy, were AX- two children and four grandchil- flying out of England. He was POW life members since 1986 and dren. shot down, captured and held in former members of the Forty- Stalag VIIA. Survivors include his Niners Chapter. MATHENY, Wilfred Roland, life wife, Elizabeth, 2 daughters and member of AXPOW and the 1 son. KLOSSNER, Herb, of San Diego, Northeast Chapter (LA), passed CA died March 3, 2013. During away April 25, 2012 at his home MERCIER, Gerald R., of Chicopee, WWII, he was a navigator on a B- in El Dorado, AR. He was captured MA passed away Jan. 1, 2013. 24 with the 15th AF. Was shot on Corregidor in May, 1942 while Gerald served with the 781st Tank down, captured and held in Stalag serving with the Marines. He Bn. He was captured and held in Luft I, Barth. He was a great mem- spent 3 ½ yeas in Fukuoka slave Heppenheim until liberation. He ber of the San Diego Chapter, AX- labor camp. WR’s wife, Clara, pre- and his wife of 67 years, Gisele, POW. deceased him; he is survived by were members of the Western MA 1 daughter, 2 sisters, 2 brothers Chapter, AXPOW. In addition to KRAMER, Robert A., Canal Win- and a large extended family. his loving wife, he is survived by chester, Ohio died May 3, 2013. 6 children, 6 grandchildren and He served in the 398th Reg. of the McELRATH, Eldred L. “Mac”, of 9 great-grandchildren. He is sadly 100th Division in France as a com- Hughson, CA passed away April missed. bat Infantryman. He was a mem- 16, 2013. He was 95. He was cap- ber of the 100th Infantry Division tured while serving in the AAC; MICKENS, Richard D., of Palm Association, Ohio Chapter 1 of he was held in Luft I, Barth. Mac Springs, CA died May 12, 2013. He the American Ex-Prisoners of was a member of AXPOW and ac- was 87. He served with the 15th AF, War, and Motts Military Museum. tive in the local chapter. He is was shot down, captured and held He received the Bronze Star and survived by his wife of 67 years, at Frankfurt, Wetzlar, Nurnberg Purple Heart. He was held Jane, 2 daughters, 1 son, 3 grand- and Moosberg until liberation by in Stalags 12A, 3A, and 11A.. He children, 6 great-grandchildren Patton. His wife, Doreen, prede- is survived by his wife Mary Lou, and a large extended family. ceased him; he leaves one daugh- 2 sons, 1 daughter, 6 grandchil- ter and her family. dren and 8 great-grandchildren. McGARITY, Vernon, of Memphis, TN passed away May 21, 2013 at MILLER, Catharine “Kay”, of San LaBARBERA, Anthony, of the age of 91. During WWII, he Diego, CA passed away March 20, Mundelein (formerly of Arlington served in the Army; he was cap- 2013. She was 89. During WWII, Heights), IL passed away April 20, tured in the Battle of the Bulge she served in the Marines. Kay 2013. He was 94. Anthony served and held until liberation. For his was the widow of PNC Charlie in the 1st Armored Div. USA, cap- heroic actions in that battle, Sgt. (1982-1983, German POW). In the tured in North Africa. He was a McGarity received the Medal of 1970s, the couple started the San Honor. Diego Chapter of the American Ex-Prisoners of War. Kay was Ex-POW Bulletin McKITTRICK, Helen, of Colorado Chapter Treasurer and active July/August 2013 Springs, CO died May 10, 2013. She 34 band of 67 years, Fred (ex-POW, April 23, 2013. He was captured taps continued... 15th AF, member of the Wheeling while serving with the AAC and Chapter, AXPOW), 1 son, 2 grand- spent the next year in Stalag Luft sons and 1 great-granddaughter. III. Thomas is survived by his member of the Women’s Marine wife, Barbara, 1 sister, 1 nephew, Association. PAPAS, Peter, member of the Fox 3 nieces and 1 daughter-in-law. River Valley Chapter, AXPOW, MILLER, Marvin J., 87, of Layton, passed away in May, 2013. He was VELEY, Raymond S., 89, of UT died Nov. 21, 2012. He was cap- captured while serving with the Marysville, OH died April 6, 2013. tured while serving with the 15th 8th AF during WWII; he was held He served in the ETO 88th Divi- AF, 464th BG, 776th BS. He was held in camps in Wetzlar, Frankfort. sion. After capture, he was held in Stalag Luft IV, then marched Survivors include his loving wife, in Stalag 7A. He leaves 2 daugh- across Germany. Survivors in- Patricia, 1 daughter, 2 grandchil- ters, 1 grandson and 1 sister. He clude 10 children, 64 grandchil- dren, 1 sister and many nieces was a long time member of Ohio dren and 103 great-grandchildren. and nephews. Chapter 1, AXPOW.

MOATS, Howard W., 87, of PETERSON, Robert J., of WHALEY, Robert, of Johnson Pinellas Park, FL passed away Houghton, MI passed away March City, TN, died May 17, 68 years to March 1, 2013. He served in the 9, 2013. During World War II, Bob the date after his liberation. He Army during WWII; after capture enlisted in the Army Air Corps. served with the 301 BS, 353 BG and he was held in 7A until liberation. He served as a bombardier on a was held in Stalags 7A, 13D and Howard leaves his wife of 59 B-24 Liberator. He was shot down Luft 4. A member of the East Ten- years, Rosemary, 2 sons and 2 over Germany and spent 14 nessee Chapter, he is survived by daughters. months as a POW. His wife, Rita, his wife of 43 years, Betty. predeceased him; he leaves 4 chil- MORSE, Richard H., of dren, 10 grandchildren, 7 great- WOOD, Weldon, of Plano, TX, Cheektowaga, NY passed away grandchildren, 1 sister and 20 died Mary 25, 2013. He served in Jan. 14, 2013. He served with the nieces and nephews. Co B, 110 Reg., 28 Div. and was 187th Inf.; he was captured in the held in Stalag 9B. He is survived Battle of the Bulge. He is survived STIPE, Rose A., 88, of Manheim, by his wife, Dorothy, both mem- by long-time friend, Blanche PA passed away May 23, 2013. She bers of Dallas Metroplex Chapter. Sorgi. was the widow of the late John P. (ex-POW/WWII AAF). She was a WOODWARD, Chester M., of Den- NIELSON, Bernice I., 87, of Au- member of the Conestoga Chap- ver, CO passed away April 20, rora, NE passed away May 14, ter AXPOW. Rose volunteered at 2013. He was 94. Chet was a mem- 2012. She was a member of the the Lebanon VA Medical Center ber of the Mile High Chapter, AX- Cornhusker Chapter, AXPOW and where she attended P.O.W. & POW. He was a POW in Stalag Luft the wife of ex-POW Robert. She is spouse support groups. Survivors III and 7A. He leaves his wife of also survived by 1 sister, 1 include 1 daughter-in-law, 1 72 years, Joyce, 2 sons, 5 grand- brother, 1 daughter, 2 sons, 8 grandson, and 1 brother. children and 7 great-grandchil- grandchildren, 5 great-grandsons dren. and 2 great-great-granddaughters. STOCKMEIER, Frederick C., 89, of Elk Grove Village, IL and past YOUNG, Edward Eugene, of OLSON, Christine, of Benwood, commander of the Fox River Val- Mount Clare, WV died May 11, WV died Jan. 17, 2013. She was 94. ley Chapter, died May 7, 2013. He 2013 at the age of 92. He was cap- Christine is survived by her hus- served with the 100th Inf. Div., tured while serving with the 106th 375th Field Artillery Inf. Div. during the Battle of the Bn. He was captured Bulge. He was held in Stalag 9B and held in XIIA, IIIB, until liberation by Patton’s 44th and IIIA. He leaves his Div. Eugene spent many years as wife, Estella Ruth, 1 the WV Chapter chaplain and at- son, 3 daughter, and tended meetings and conven- five grandchildren. tions. He is survived by 2 chil- dren, 8 grandchildren, 5 great- THOMAS, Thomas L., grandchildren and their families. Sr., of Wheaton, IL and Ex-POW Bulletin member of the Fox River Valley Chapter, July/August 2013 AXPOW passed away 35 fering unhappiness for the same erally has the ability to make us chaplain reasons. become whatever we think we are. Want to be lonely? Think of your- We suffer, because loved ones self as lonely. To be happy begin have gone away, illness, mistreat- to think of yourself as being ment and yes, even in America, happy. hunger.

I am happy to say that as a group In closing I would like to quote I have found our Former Prison- Proverbs 3:13, “Happy is the man ers of war to be upbeat and grate- that findeth wisdom, and the ful to our Creator for their free- man that getteth understanding.” dom, their lives and their fami- In modern English: You will be happier if you realize that you can ND Benny Rayborn lies. They seem to know the real- ity of Proverbs23:7 which begins control your thoughts and with “For as he thinketh in his through your thoughts your hap- heart, so is he.” piness. God Bless you!

Happiness My father relates that during his entire imprisonment that he re- BennyBennyBenny One of the things that many ceived only one letter from any- people experience today is unhap- one “back home.” This means piness. Our Prisoners of war were that he and thousands more in not different. They experienced the same situation had to turn to unhappiness for a large number themselves and to rely on God of reasons: Forced separation and their prayers to be “upbeat” from families, hunger, illness, and for any joy or happiness that wounds, and mistreatment and came their way. They carried this for many more reasons. Many ability into the “free life” when people in our country, amongst they came home. Remember, as our friends and families are suf- we think so we are. Our minds lit- TAPS As soon as Taps was sounded in July 1862, words were put with the music. The first were, “Go To Sleep, Go to Sleep.” As the years went on many more versions were created. There are no official words to the music but here are some of the more popular verses:

Day is done, gone the sun, Love, good night, Must thou go, From the hills, from the lake, When the day, And the night From the sky. Need thee so? All is well, safely rest, All is well. Speedeth all God is nigh. To their rest. Go to sleep, peaceful sleep, Fades the light; And afar May the soldier or sailor, Goeth day, And the stars God keep. Shineth bright, On the land or the deep, Fare thee well; Day has gone, Safe in sleep. Night is on. Thanks and praise, For our days, ’Neath the sun, Neath the stars, Ex-POW Bulletin ’Neath the sky, July/August 2013 As we go, This we know, 36 God is nigh. Ex-POW Bulletin ALL CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE TO July/August 2013 AXPOW OR AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR 37 American Ex-Prisoners of War

Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 38 AMAZING TRUE STORY! 50/50 drawing Rosemary Stagner Flynn was born in Manila, Philippines. During November, 2012 WWII, Rosemary and her family Arlington, TX hid in the mountains, but were eventually captured by the Japa- 1st Place Vera Meinhardt, WI $160.40 nese Army. They spent three long years in a prison camp, endur- 2nd Place J.D. Griffin, NY $120.30 ing starvation, torture. BEHIND THE WALLS tells Rosemary’s in- 3rd Place Abraham Corpuz, CA $80.20 credible story including the he- roic rescue by General 4th Place Robert Fortnam, NY $40.10 MacArthur and US Army Troops. These drawings help raise money needed for our operating “It was many years later that Rosemary Flynn was expenses. They allow our members to participate in a very prompted to share her family’s war years with her worthwhile project, while giving them a chance to win. 50% children. It is our good fortune that she chose to do of the donations will be given to the General Fund and the so.” Sascha Jansen. Review from BACEPOW: Beyond other 50% are awarded as prizes. The amounts are deter- the Wire. mined after all donations are received. You do not have to be present to win. Please make copies of the tickets on the Please send $20.00 (USD) for the 221 page book, other side and offer them to your Chapter members, family which includes shipping in the United States. and friends. We are asking $5.00 for 6 tickets. These dona- Send check or money order (no cash) to: tions are not tax deductible. Fill out the tickets and send FLYNN, PO BOX 1813, SANTA CLARITA, CA 91386 them and your donations to: Make check/money orders payable to “Flynn.” National Headquarters ~ 50/50 Drawing Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, #40 International price is $30.00 (includes shipping). Arlington, TX 76010-5396

request for The 106th Infantry membership application Division Association American Ex-Prisoners of War Organized at Camp Lucky Strike 1945 active since 1946

Name: ______If you are a former 106th Infantry Division vet, were Address:______attached to the 106th,a relative of a 106th veteran, you City/State/Zip:______are eligible for membership in the Association.

Membership is open to US Military and Civilians captured The CUB Magazine is published three times because of their US citizenship and their per year. Published since 1946. families. Annual Reunions held yearly since 1947. Do NOT send dues with this request for an Jacquelyn Martin, Membership Chairman application 121 McGregor Ave. Mount Arlington, N.J. 07856 Mail to: 973-663-2410 American Ex-Prisoners of War E-mail: [email protected] 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, #40 Arlington, TX 76010-5936 (817) 649-2979 voice Ex-POW Bulletin (817)649-0109 fax July/August 2013 e-mail:[email protected] 39 American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______

Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Thank you for your support. (11/13) Thank you for your support. (11/13) American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______

Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Thank you for your support. (11/13) Thank you for your support. (11/13) American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- Thank you for your support. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Ex-POW Bulletin (11/13) Thank you for your support. (11/13) July/August 2013 40 AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR VOLUNTARY FUNDING PROGRAM

The AXPOW Voluntary Giving Program parallels that of other VSOs, whereby the entire membership, including life members, is given the opportunity to contribute to the operation of our organization, based on ability and willingness to contribute.

All contributions are to be sent directly to National Headquarters to be used for the operation of the organization. A complete accounting of contributors will appear in the Bulletin each issue.

I am enclosing my contribution to support the operation of the American Ex-Prisoners of War.

$20.00 $30.00 $40.00 $50.00 $100.00 Other

Please circle one category:

Individual Chapter State Department (If chapter or department, please give name)

Name

Address

City/State/Zip

Phone #

Please make checks payable to American Ex-Prisoners of War - Voluntary Funding Mail contributions to: National Headquarters American Ex-Prisoners of War 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010 Ex-POW Bulletin July/August 2013 41 Name Badge Order Form AXPOW Vest Order Form (for members only) (For members only) Actual size of badge is Name______size of a credit card Address______

PLEASE PRINT: City, State, Zip ______Name ______Size (Men/coat, Women/chest measurement) ______Line 1 ______Line 2 ______Long, Regular or Short______

Name Badge with name & chapter and city: $6.00 Name on front of vest ______(includes shipping and handling) Chapter Name (back of vest) ______Ship to: Street ______Price: $55.00, includes shipping/handling City/State/Zip ______Please allow 8-10 weeks for delivery.

Mail orders to: Mail orders to: AXPOW NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS AXPOW NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, Texas 76010-5396 Arlington, Texas 76010-5396 Official AXPOW Cap (specify size) 40.00 Eagle pin w/Barbed Wire 8.00 12x18 AXPOW Graveside Flag 10.00 Vinyl Cap Bag 3.00 (specify gold, silver or antique gold) 3x5 ft. AXPOW Flag w/3-color logo Maroon AXPOW Sport Cap 8.00 Jeweled Flag Pin 30.00 with fringe, indoor use 60.00 Black Eagle Sport Cap 9.00 USA Jeweled Pin 15.00 with grommets, outdoor use 60.00 Canvas Sport Cap (offwhite or tan) 10.00 Logo Necklace 5.00 3x5ft. blackPOW/MIA flag, outdoor use 25.00 AXPOW Pocket Knife 13.00 Logo Earrings (pierced or clip) 5.00 AXPOW Metal License Plate Frame 10.00 Necktie w/logo 30.00 2” Medallion (for plaque) 6.00 Aluminum License Plate 5.00 (regular only) Vest Chainguard w/eagles 8.00 3” Vinyl Decal 1.00 AXPOW Logo Bolo Tie 25.00 3” Blazer Patch 4.00 3” Inside Decal 1.00 U.S. Flag Bolo Tie 20.00 4” Blazer Patch 4.00 8” Vinyl Decal 6.00 Mini POW Medal Bolo Tie 30.00 8” Blazer Patch 10.00 12” Vinyl Decal 10.00 Barbed Wire pin 3.00 CLOTH STRIPES (specify which title) 3.00 Bumper Sticker “Freedom – Ask us” 2.00 Life Member pin 5.00 Life Member · Chapter Commander AXPOW Wall Clock (includes battery) 20.00 Crossed Flags Lapel pin 5.00 Past Chapter Commander · Chapter Adj/Treas Chapter AXPOW Notecards (pkg of 25) 6.00 Brooch pin 5.00 Adjutant · Chapter Treasurer Special Prayer Cards (pkg of 25) 6.00 EX-POW pin (goldtone) 5.00 State Department Commander AXPOW Prayer Book 2.00 Logo pin 5.00 Past State Dept. Commander · Department Adjutant Ladies Prayer Book 1.00 POW Stamp pin 3.00 Department Treasurer · Sr. Vice Commander AXPOW By-Laws 5.00 Past Chapter Commander pin 5.00 Jr. Vice Commander · Chaplain · Historian POW DVD – ETO or Pacific 11.00 Past Department Commander pin 5.00 Service Officer · Legislative Officer “Speak Out” Education Packet 6.00 Magnetic Ribbons 5.00 Past Chapter Officer · Past Department Officer Canvas Totebag w/4” logo 15.00 Challenge Coins 10.00 AXPOW Flashlight 12.00 We accept Master Card/Visa QUANTITY ITEM SIZE / COLOR PRICE

For orders up to 4.00, add $3.00; For orders 4.01 to 7.99, add $4.00; For orders 8.00 to 25.00, Shipping/Handling/Insurance: add $8.00, For orders 25.01 to 49.99, add $13.00; For orders 50.00 to 99.99, add $15.00 For orders over 100.00, add $20.00 Checks/Money Order/Credit Card Accepted. Total: $ For credit card orders: Card # ______Expiration: ______(Check one) Master Card ______Visa______Name ______MAIL TO: Address ______AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR City, State, Zip ______3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Phone ______Arlington, Texas 76010-5396 817-649-2979 [email protected]

All orders for products sold by AXPOW National Organization, including dues/subscriptions should be mailed to: American Ex-Prisoners of War National Headquarters 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 (817) 649-2979/ (817) 649-0109 fax Challenge Coins! e-mail: [email protected] great gifts...great hand-outs...great way to show No collect calls, please your pride in your organization AXPOW Logo on front/Five services on reverse Thank you for supporting the American Ex-POWS with ea your purchases of National Merchandise. $10.00 change of address form Include your mailing label for address change or inquiry. If you are receiving duplicate copies, please send both labels. If moving, please give us your new address in the space provided.

Please print: Name______Address______City/State/Zip______Phone ( )______Email ______Please allow 4 weeks to make address corrections.

Mail to: National Headquarters, AXPOW, 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Or fax: (817) 649-0109 Or e-mail: [email protected]