The Stories Behind the Names on the Bricks
WESTWOOD VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK
THE STORIES BEHIND THE NAMES ON THE BRICKS
COMPILED BY RYAN DUKEMAN TROOP 3 EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT NOVEMBER, 2010
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to the stories.
2. Alphabetical list of participating veterans.
3. Video memories.
4. Stories provided by veterans or family members.
5. Appendices:
A. Letter to veterans/family. B. Questionnaire.
Introduction to the Stories
This project started for me as a conversation around the kitchen table. I was trying to decide what to do for my Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project, and was at a bit of a loss for ideas. Then it came to me to do something with the new Veterans’ Park down the road from my house.
I have always heard war stories from my two grandfathers, both of whom have bricks dedicated to them at this park. One of my grandfathers, a WWII/Battle of the Bulge Veteran, regularly speaks at local high schools and the students are always truly touched by and impressed with his stories. I was very fortunate to be able to attend the dedication ceremony of the WWII memorial in Washington DC in 2004 with my grandfather. At that ceremony, I learned how important it is to honor and learn from our veterans.
Eventually I decided to compile a database of information about the names honored on the bricks at the park, and from there my project grew into what I think is a collection of amazing, diverse, and inspiring stories from almost 100 local veterans and their families.
This project began by writing a letter and questionnaire, and mailing them to almost 400 different Westwood families who had purchased bricks, some living as far away as Florida, asking them information about their or their family member’s service and seeking copies of pictures of the Veteran or their artifacts. Then, over the next few months, I transcribed their responses as the letters came back, and it was so interesting to read the different experiences people from Westwood had serving our country all over the world. Many people sent pictures as well, and these are all included with that person’s information. In addition, 4 people volunteered to be interviewed on camera to more fully explain their service and tell more of their stories. There are links to those videos on Youtube with each person’s information.
The histories here are the memories and reflections of the servicemen and women who volunteered their information. Given the nature of primary source accounts when dealing with events that happened so many years ago, some of the exact facts said by a Veteran may not be exactly precise (e.g, the exact date of a battle, the full name of a friend who died long ago), but hopefully you will feel that the emotion and first-hand oral history these veterans provide outweigh any minor inaccuracies. Their information and stories allow us to know and honor the real people whose names are on the bricks.
This project adds to existing Westwood Veterans’ history projects and adds to the work of previous efforts to honor Westwood’s many veterans, such as Troop 3 Eagle Scout Tim Campion’s oral history project with the Library of Congress, Joe Clancy’s project to catalog the names of all Westwood residents who served in the armed forces, and the Westwood High School US History class project interviewing local veterans which are archived with the Westwood Historical Society. All of these projects honor our veterans and provide great information for the citizens of Westwood.
Finally, I would like to thank the following people:
Paul Mullin and everyone at the American Legion Post 320 Westwood, for their support, financial and otherwise, to get this project off the ground.
Paula Scoble and Chris McKeown at the Westwood Department of Veterans’ Services for giving me the mailing lists and names of veterans, and for advising me all along the way.
Sheila Nee and Donna McClellan at Westwood Town Hall for technical support in putting everything together and posting to the Town’s website.
My family, my friends and fellow Scouts in Troup 3 Westwood who provided hours of help over the course of the project.
Finally, I would like to give special thanks to my grandfathers Tim Galvin and Joseph Dukeman for their service to our country and for always sharing their stories and memories. And special thanks to my dad, Stephen Dukeman, who was the one to encourage my grandfathers to talk about and share their stories and made me pay attention.
Please enjoy these stories and learn about “the names on the bricks.”
Ryan Dukeman Troop 3 Eagle Scout Project November, 2010
The following Westwood veterans and/or family members were interviewed or provided information for this project. Their stories appear on the following pages in alphabetical order.
John C. Ahern Timothy F. Galvin Harlon Alroy Donald L. Hayes Matthew M. Anderson George Alton Hunt Alex Anthony Andrus Thomas L. Hurley Jaspard Harvey Atkins Alex Jacobson Allen M. Baker Thomas F. Joyce William B. Baker Thomas Keefe Edward Beausang Christopher Matthew Kelly Thomas J. Begley John Matthew Kennedy Curtis B. Bigelow Paul Ernest Kremer Peter Bleday Walter J. Landry Charles R. Bowling Charles G. Leonard Horace Joseph Boulay James M. Martin Lionel Joseph Boulay Nicholas R. Martin George L. Brawley Charles A. Mathys William R. Brogan Jack McElroy Philip J. Burnett James F. McGill Robert A. Burnett Helen McLaren Ernest R. Cappuccino Helen McLaren and William P. McLaren Benedetto F. "Ben" Castrechini John P. McMorrow William J. Chicoine Fred Meagher Rosindo Chiulli Stuart Meridan Neal Clay Genevieve Morek Charles J. Clement Peter M. Nee Donald A. Cole, Jr. Michael Joseph O'Neil Velma F. "Juvah" Cole Francis P. Papasadero Bill Conley John E. Patterson Paul F. Cook Melvin R. Perlman Leroy J. Corson John L. Pritchard Alexander A. Courtney John Michael Pritchard Pasquale J. Danna Pierre E. Provost, MD Louis R. Delaplace Sean Quinn Gordon C. Dempze Francis J. Rossetti Silvestro J. DiGregorio George B. Saunders Russell E. Downes Donald Schauerte Joseph T. Dukeman Robert G. Smith Robert P. Easland, Jr Dale Stauffer Robert W. Eckels Walter Sweeney James M. Fahey Leo Talbot Thomas F. Fallon Stuart P. Tauber Philip Fishman Richard C. Toland David M. Fitzgerald George W. Wallace Joseph K. Gallagher
Video Memories
In addition to the written material, there are several videos available related to this project. To see any of the videos, hit control and click on the link.
Overview of Westwood Veterans’ Park
This video provides an overview of the Veterans’ Park and how the brick program developed. This video provides pictures of the Park, as well as a very informative interview with Paula Scoble of the Westwood Veterans’ Department.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UZ_fMnM25Q
Interviews with Veterans
Several veterans offered to record some of their stories on video. Their videos and links are listed below. These videos are very interesting and should be viewed.
Russell E. Downes – Korean War Navy Part 1 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nQcFCQAZeI Part 2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeiyp01WD9U Part 3 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYmfFr1FFmw
Joseph T. Dukeman – WWII Combat Infantry Division, the “Yankee” Division Part 1 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d77JArLFHc Part 2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSJ01osbV_w
Timothy Galvin – Korean War Veteran – Navy Captain Part 1 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Td_jFk_ohk Part 2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stY7VLAC90g
Helen McLaren – WWII Coast Guard Recruiter Part 1 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hps4jsTLqrI Part 2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5p3JxQnlbC8
Horace Boulay (link provided by family): http://www.gnb.ca/0007/Heritage/Regiment/chp21b.htm
NAME: John C. Ahern
HOMETOWN: Roxbury
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Army, served in WWII (1943-46) as a Staff Sergeant in the 1st Field Hospital. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Philippine Liberation Award, Battle Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal.
RESPONSIBILITIES: As Mess/gSt. Responsible for preparation of all meals for personnel and wounded.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Witnessing the suffering of the Philippine people and the pain seeing our soldiers wounded and killed.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Never give up”
John C. Ahern (Cont’d)
NAME: Harlon Alroy
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the Coast Guard where he served for over 25 years (most notably in WWII). He was awarded several medals/awards over the years for his dedicated service.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Chief Engineer, ships’ bailers
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Difficult at first, after a new job and marriage it seemed to go better”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Anzio Beachhead, Sicily, and the Mediterranean Sea Area
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Caring, love of country, loyalty to the many friends he made in the service.
NAME: Matthew M. Anderson
HOMETOWN: Westwood, MA
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Marine Corps from May 2002 to May 2007. Served in Iraq from February 2005 to February 2006 at Al Asad Air Base as a Sergeant. Received the Navy Achievement Medal for managing the Marine Air Control Group 28 Operations Center in Iraq.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Worked as an imagery analyst of an unmanned aerial vehicle video feed. Gathered intelligence to provide combat situational awareness for the commanding officer. Sourced movement requests, which included arranging troop transport via convoy, helicopter, or fixed-wing aircraft.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: The first year of returning was difficult, but there were no problems after that.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Experiencing a sustained 122mm rocket attack, with nearby explosions and the ground shaking.
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Learned that the world can be a harsh place, and that preparing for that harshness is the key to survival for both individuals and nations.
NAME: Alex Anthony Andrus
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy 4 October 1939. Served in WWII in the Pacific Theatre
RESPONSIBILITIES: “Mostly radio-he earned his first license in Hawaii when he was aboard the USS Iowa. He transmitted so quickly the Captain of the USS Iowa always depended on him for news.”
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Difficult-no jobs, new baby, no apartments. However he made it!! Went back to school and became a tool and dye machinist which served him well all of his working years.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Hard to say-he enjoyed lots of it-missed home-he met a lifelong friend who he enjoyed and whom I still do”
NAME: Jaspard Harvey Atkins
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into US Army in WWII, served as a Staff Sergeant in the 7th Infantry Division Field Artillery, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Pacific Campaign Medal, Army of Occupation Medal-Asiatic Pacific, WWII Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, National Typhus Commision Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: Radio Operator for Forward Observer (105 Howitzers), Public Health in Seoul, Korea
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “I was 18 years old when I went into the Army and I did a lot of growing up while in the Army. When I left the Army, I went to college, which I treated as a job. I had direction and wanted to get on with my life”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “While running wire on Okinawa for my forward observer, my Jeep and radio took a direct hit from an enemy shell”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “I learned that when you had a task to do, you did it with your best effort. You had satisfaction and did not have to redo the job”
NAME: Allen M. Baker
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served in WWII (1942-45), final rank RM 1st Class in the Pacific Theatre.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Radio Operator, Voice and Morse Code, Cook, Mail Clerk
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Helping to pick up survivors of Kaneohe fleet oiler hit at Tillage. After landing troops on Moroti Island Invasion, backing of beach and turning, we saw the volcano on the Halmaherd reflection on a peaceful green sea, blue sky and hour glass shape.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Be a volunteer. Help others”
NAME: William B. Baker
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Marines in March 1942 when Pearl Harbor was attacked. Served in WWII as a Corporal in the Fourth Marine Division. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Purple Heart (when shot in Saipan-Titian).
RESPONSIBILITIES: “He carried a radio on his back for communications.”
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He purchased a Harley Davidson and drove across the country ending up on the West Coast.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “While in Saipan, he was helping to carry the wounded men on stretchers to the helicopter when he was shot twice and he had to be put on the helicopter.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “When my dad talked about his war experiences he would always talk about the good qualities and positive things, it was about the men he served with or the places he visited. I remember him teaching us kids to always focus on the positive and to always value your freedom.”
NAME: Edward Beausang
SERVICE INFORMATION:Drafted in the US Army where he served as a Private in the infantry. He says a great reward he got was an anonymous letter from a Korean thanking him.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Infantryman
NAME: Thomas J. Begley
HOMETOWN: Brighton
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Army, served in the 182nd Infantry Division from March 1941-October 1944. Received the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Citation from the Secretary of the Navy 2/4/43.
RESPONSIBILITIES: In charge of machine gun section reinforcing the First Marine Division of Tulagi, Guadalcanal, and British Solomon Islands.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: Returned to job at the US Postal Service that he had before being drafted where he worked until he retired. He had no problem readjusting to civilian life.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Battle on Guadalcanal which lasted seven days. Division reinforced against the Japanese air and land strike. August 1942
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: It is most important to defend our country but sometime the cost is huge. You learn to value life, family, and all your military comrades.
Thomas J. Begley, Jr. (Cont’d)
NAME: Curtis B. Bigelow
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army 6th Armored Division 86th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Part of Gen. Patton’s 3rd Army-Troop D), 1944-46 (WWII), served as a Private, First Class in the European Theatre, participated in the Battle of the Bulge and witnessed Buchenwald Concentration Camp, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Presidential Unit Citation (for taking control of a bridge and a town in Germany [Eder River])
RESPONSIBILITIES: To cut off enemy forces and eliminate their ability to succeed. Drove an armored car.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Adjusted fairly well. Went in at age 18, discharged age 20. Went to work nights and got degree in Business Administration-Boston University and lived happily ever after!”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Being on the front lines on his 19th birthday, scared to death! Curt was nicknamed ‘the Kid’ by his comrades!”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “To live life and respect freedom”
NAME: Peter Bleday
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Attended the US Naval Academy in Annapolis and volunteered for submarines, is currently serving in the US Navy Submarine Service. He is assigned to the USS Chicago, a Los Angeles class attack sub stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. He will be deployed later this year.
RESPONSIBILITIES: He is currently qualifying for his “dolphins” Intense training for 1 year+
NAME: Charles R. Bowling
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served as a Pilot in Korea and Vietnam
RESPONSIBILITIES: Fighter/Attack Pilot Squadron Commander
NAME: Horace Joseph Boulay
HOMETOWN: Belledune, N.B Canada
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the Canadian Army, served 1939-45 (WWII), final rank Sergeant. North Shore Regiment Landed on D-Day, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Military medal and for the Victoria Cross for actions in Holland and Germany
RESPONSIBILITIES: Commander of a tank Squad (3 tanks) at the end of the war. Was a dispatch rider after D-Day until promoted to Sergeant.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Came back to the family farm with an Irish war bride.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “He was very proud of his service. A link to a website about his service can be found here: http://www.gnb.ca/0007/Heritage/Regiment/chp21b.htm
NAME: Lionel Joseph Boulay
HOMETOWN: Ontario Canada
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the Canadian Army, served in Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry from 1939-45
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Came home to work in the mines in Northern Ontario with an Irish war bride.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Served with the British 8th Army from Sicily through Italy until the War’s end
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Toughest man you ever met”
NAME: George L. Brawley
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Air Force, served 1950-54 (Korean War), was an Airman 1st Class, served on the USS General W.H. Gordon
RESPONSIBILITIES: Supply Technician
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Supplying fighter pilots with the best equipment available. Also, Air Force, Army, and Marine personnel.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Serving my country to the best of my ability during the Korean War.”
INFORMATION ABOUT THE USS GENERAL W.H. GORDON: “The 75th Air Depot Wing was formed at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. It had over 3000 Air Force Troops. We sailed from Corpus Christi, Texas to Japan and Korea in December of 1951. After 30 days of sailing, the ship docked at Yakahama, Japan. Some of the wings stayed in Japan. We continued on to Quson, Korea where the rest of the wings stayed throughout Korea.”
NAME: William R. Brogan
HOMETOWN: Clifton, NJ
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, served as a Captain from 1943-45
RESPONSIBILITIES: “My father was in his mid-to-late 20’s and a lawyer. He was put in charge of postal operations in England and then later in France.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Victory in France”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “I think my father learned about male-bonding and leadership. He became a city councilor in Clifton, NJ. He never backed down. My father remained close to other veterans through veterans’ organizations. He was active all his life in DAV and VFW. He always gave veterans a break in legal services.”
NAME: Philip J. Burnett
HOMETOWN: Brookline
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the then-US Army Air Corps in WWII 1941-45, was a Major
RESPONSIBILITIES: Pilot, Bomber Escort
KIA IN SERVICE TO OUR NATION: Tragically, Major Burnett was shot down over Burma in WWII while escorting bombers over the Burmese jungles.
NAME: Robert A. Burnett
SERVICE INFORMATION: Served in the US Marine Corps in the Infantry in Vietnam (Quang-Tue Province) 1963-1967, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Purple Heart, Bronze Star
RESPONSIBILITIES: Infantryman, machine gunner
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Too many to write here. I guess the day I got out and was still alive”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Going into the USMC was the best thing I ever did. ‘Improvise-Adapt-Overcome’”
NAME: Ernest R. Cappuccino
HOMETOWN: Norwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in US Navy, served during WWII, was the only one of 7 of his friends from Norwood to be accepted to the Navy, served as a Petty Officer 3rd Class. The ship was KA99, a cargo ship. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDAL: WWII Victory Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: “He trained and supervised men in performing deck duties, maintaining discipline and regulations aboard ship.”
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “At first he said it was a big adjustment. But had to find work to support his family.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Landing in the Phillipines. Also Tokyo Bay when the Japanese had surrendered the War”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “We don’t take life for granted. War is terrible. There should be peace always.”
NAME: Benedetto F. “Ben” Castrechini
HOMETOWN: Walpole
SERVICE INFORMATION: Served in the US Army’s Military Police from 10/22/1943- 4/20/1946 in the European Theatre, specifically in the Rhineland Central European Campaigns. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Medal, American Theatre Campaign Medal, European African/Middle Eastern Theatre Campaign Medal, Victory Medal, Army Occupation Medal-Germany
RESPONSIBILITIES: “Served with Company R’s 505th Military Police Battalion. Enforced military laws and regulations upon German and Austrian Civilians and American troops in occupied territory of Austria. Guarded captured materials and prevented sabotage.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “The death of his best buddy, who died in his arms after being bayonetted. Also the devout religion of the German people whose homes he occupied and who fed him when he was hungry.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “He often said that he would never take for granted the honor of living in a free and democratic society, nor the comforts of his home in the USA after walking across Germany and Austria in frigid temperatures.”
EXCERPT FROM HIS EULOGY: “A dedicated and loving son-in-law, a loving brother and uncle, a loving father who always wanted to do more for us. A father-in-law that embraced our spouses as his own children, a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, he was so proud of all of us as we were of him. A faithful and loving husband that, if he could, would have lassoed the moon..to give it to the love of his life.
EXCERPT FROM A LETTER FROM HIS WIFE, EDITH, DATED 5 July 1949: “My Darling, I’ve only been up here for two days and yet it seems as though I’ve been away from home for so long because I miss you so much. Everyone is downstairs out on the terrace looking at movies, but I couldn’t go down without writing to you. I just keep sitting here looking at my ring and thinking how much I love you… Think of me once in a while because you’re always in my heart and thoughts. Goodnight angel All my love is forever yours I love you, Edie
NAME: William J. Chicoine
HOMETOWN: Brockton
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy– World War II – Chief Petty Officer Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALSA Bronze Star to be worn upon the ribbon bar of the American Area Campaign Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: Telegrapher – Naval Communications Office, Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C. (1942-1943) (1) Chief Yeoman, U.S.S. Baker, Destroyer Escort 190 – Responsible for maintaining and updating all official ship’s records with emphasis on personnel records (1943-1945) (2) Official staff member, U.S. Naval Training School, Hunter College, New York, N.Y. – Lecturing to members of the Navy Women’s Reserve (WAVES) during the time period between graduation and field assignment. Typical lecture subjects stressed the importance of their releasing shore-bound males for sea duty and my own experience of service at sea. (1945)
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: Somewhat stressful since I then had a wife and two little ones and it was important that I attend college under the G.I. Bill. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Boston University in 1949.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Serving on a Destroyer Escort, which performed multiple functions principal of which was anti-submarine warfare. An Anti-Submarine Task Force was comprised of an Aircraft Carrier and six (6) Destroyer Escorts serving a dual purpose: (1) to protect the Aircraft Carrier and (2) to pursue German submarines sighted by Carrier aircraft. On July 5, 1944, while searching south of Newfoundland, off Cape Sable, the Baker picked up a submarine with her sound gear and delivered several depth charges that brought it to the surface. The Baker opened fire, keeping the submarine crew below deck and unable to man their guns. The Baker also laid a shallow pattern of 13 depth charges that crippled the sub, which was ultimately sent to the bottom of the Atlantic. The Baker and other ships of the Task Force picked up 30 German survivors, later transferred to the Carrier. A total of 39 of the crew of the submarine perished. The submarine, the U-233, was a 1600-ton minelayer.
William J. Chicoine (Cont’d)
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: To be thankful and have respect for the effort and contribution not only of my shipmates but of the United States Navy in particular and the Armed Forces in general.
NAME: Rosindo Chiulli
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, WWII, Pacific Theatre
RESPONSIBILITIES: Served on an LST, which protected battleships and aircraft carriers. His job was to shoot at an assigned area of the sky to hit any enemy aircraft flying through this sector.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He dealt with the horror of war by never reliving his war experiences after he came home. It was a time in his life that he put behind him.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “He was on his way to Japan to invade the island. Everyone on the ship expected huge casualties. Unexpectedly, they were told that the war was over and Japan had surrendered.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “War is the second most horrendous thing in this world. A life without freedom is the worst thing, and it is worth going to war to preserve.”
NAME: Neal Clay
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Army Infantry, served from June 1941- December 1942 as a second lieutenant, served in the US Army Air Corps from September 1943- November 1945 as a first lieutenant, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Air Medal for meritorious achievement in Aerial Flight.
RESPONSIBILITIES: In the Infantry, trained men in all aspects of tactical warfare at Camp Carson, Colorado Springs, Colorado. In the Air Corps, flew many missions and later planned and briefed missions. Pilot B24 Cerignolo Italy.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Flying mission in his B24 over Germany and Italy. Also bonding with the crew of the B24 that he piloted.
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: To value life, and to be happy and content with what you have.
NAME: Charles J. Clement
HOMETOWN: Dedham
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Coast Guard, served from 1945-46, served on the USS Van Buren, served in the US Navy Reserves from 1946-50, called up to active duty in the US Navy in 1950 for the Korean War, served from 1950-52.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: Not a problem – went to college on the GI bill.
NAME: Donald A. Cole Jr.
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in Malden in the US Navy, served 1942-1946 (WWII) as a Seaman 2nd Class
RESPONSIBILITIES: US Armed Guard-gun crews on merchant ships-signalman
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Covered entire globe geographically-many times without escort.
NAME: Velma F. “Juvah” Cole
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in Utah in the US Navy, served in the WAVES program from 1943-46 (WWII)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Bureau of Personnel-Courts Martial, Bureau of Ships-Ships Logs- Confidential
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Being closely watched because of confidential knowledge
NAME: Bill Conley
SERVICE INFORMATION: Served in the US Navy 1955-59 as an Aviation Mechanic 2nd Class Petty Officer
RESPONSIBILITIES: Aircraft Mechanic, Naval Air Station Norman OK, NAS Memphis TN, NAS Srudley Field FL, NAS Corpus Christi TX, NAS Sherman Field FL
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Pride in being part of a close group of sailors, working together as a team to accomplish difficult tasks. War or peace we were always tested and rated on our performance.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “I matured in the Navy. Military life can be challenging, but it made it easier to deal with civilian life. There is a code, uniform code of military justice that regulates all military personnel.”
NAME: Paul F. Cook
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, served November 1942-February 1946, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Battle Star (2)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Cryptographer
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Seeing Berlin in ruins”
NAME: Leroy J. Corson
HOMETOWN: Jamaica Plain
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served from 5/20/1942-12/24/42 as an Aviation Cadet in the US Naval Reserve. Enlisted in the US Army Air Corps, served from 4/13/43-9/19/45 in the 723rd Bomb Squad as a Corporal (overseas 17 months 21 days).
RESPONSIBILITIES: Personal Effects overseas
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Home Sweet Home”
NAME: Alexander A. Courtney
SERVICE INFORMATION: Served as a Captain in the US Army in WWII and the Korean War as an Intelligence Officer. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Bronze Star
RESPONSIBILITIES: Intelligence Officer in France, Germany, Belgium, Holland, and Washington DC 1) Interrogator of German POWs 2) Instructor of Avoidance of Enemy Interrogation and Evasion/Escape in case of capture (150,000 troops in total) 3) (Korean War only) General Staff, Pentagon-assigned to intelligence division in office of Lieutenant General Bolling, Commander of the Third Army.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Being on temporary assignment to British Army in April 1945 when they liberated Bergen Belsen Concentration Camp-about 40,000 dead on the ground when they went in on the first day”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Commitment to action on problems instead of bureaucratic waffling on issues and problems”
NAME: Pasquale J. Danna
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted March 1951in the US Navy, served in Korea 1951-55 as a Hospital Corpsman Second Class, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal.
RESPONSIBILITIES: As a Hospital Corpsman, his jobs were “aiding an assisting Doctors in the performance of their duties in Naval Hospitals and Dispensaries and Naval Air Stations”
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “No problem- attended and graduated from Northeastern University 1959 under the G.I Bill”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Visiting various places most notably Japan. Being assigned to the Fleet Division and undergoing Marine Training at Camp Pendleton, CA.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Meeting different people from varying backgrounds. Learning to be organized and self-sufficient.”
NAME: Louis R. Delaplace
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy 1951-53
RESPONSIBILITIES: Worked on aircraft
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “He was always a focused, very smart, proud American who was proud to do his duty”
NAME: Gordon C. Dempze
HOMETOWN: Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force, served 1943 – 1945, Captain.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Gordon was a pilot. He flew supply planes from North Africa to Italy. Before he enlisted, he was a civilian flight instructor for the Army.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He was glad to be home. Gordon was never in active combat. He did miss flying and was offered a position as a pilot with United Airlines, but his father needed his help on the farm.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Landing in Naples on the bombed out runway at the airport.
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Teamwork.
NAME: Silvestro J. DiGregorio
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army National Guard, was called up to the Army for WWII, served as a Private 1st Class in the 26th Yankee Infantry Division. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Defense Medal, American Campaign Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon w/4 stars, WWII Victory Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: Infantry and Truck Driver
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Our father never worried about minor problems. He became very patient.”
NAME: Russell E. Downes
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted after high school graduation in the US Navy, served as a Hospital Corpsman, 2nd Class attached to 1st Division, 5th Marines, Dog Company from June 25 1950 until January 1951 (Korean War), was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Medal, United Nations Medal, Korean Service Medal (3 Stars), Navy Occupation Medal (Asia), Presidential Unit Citation (1 Star)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Hospital Corpsman aboard US Navy ships and also with the US Marines during the LST Landings at Pusan and Inchon during the Korean War.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “It took me 36 years before I could talk about it and it was a Social Studies teacher at Westwood High that talked me into speaking to several of her classes!”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Making it home without losing my life but also treating and saving the lives of my US Navy and US Marine military friends.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “To respect every human being, to love and live one day at a time and work hard to help make every person and the world have a better outlook on life.” To see a video interview: Russell E. Downes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nQcFCQAZeI Russell E. Downes (part 2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeiyp01WD9U Russell E. Downes (part 3): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYmfFr1FFmw
Russell E. Downes (Cont’d)
NAME: Joseph T. Dukeman
HOMETOWN: Cambridge
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted in the US Army May 1943. Served as a Sergeant in the 104th Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, the “Yankee” Division. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Medal, European Theatre Medal, 4 Battle Stars, Bronze Star, WWII Victory Medal, Occupation Medal (Germany), Battle of the Bulge Medal, French Croix de Guerre.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Leading a combat squad 60 Millimeter Mortor in a weapons platoon into combat, Leading my squad into battle, trying to save them all.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “My memorable war experience was my combat. My first battle, Moncourt Woods, was my baptism of Fire. Proving my training had me ready for it.”
Joseph T. Dukeman (Cont’d)
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “How to make sure you can go into battle. You had to kill or be killed. I was lucky to make it through the War in good health. To come back home proud that we won the war.”
Three generations attend the dedication ceremony for the National WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C – May 2004.
To see a video interview: Joseph Dukeman: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d77JArLFHc Joseph Dukeman (part 2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSJ01osbV_w
NAME: Robert P. Easland Jr
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy as a lieutenant in WWII and the Korean War
RESPONSIBILITIES: Member of the Navy Supply Corps
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Because he stayed in the reserves he was comfortable with service and civilian life”
NAME: Robert W. Eckels
HOMETOWN: Bronx, NYC, NY
SERVICE INFORMATION: Served in the US Marine Corps as a Sergeant from 16 January 1943 to 28 September 1945 (WWII) in the Pacific Theatre, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Expert Rifleman, Uncommon Valor, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, World War II Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: In Hawaii he was a court stenographer in court marshall cases, In Japan (Iwo Jima, which he described as “Hell on Earth”) he was an infantryman
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “He only spoke of humorous times”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Bob was my [his wife, Elizabeth’s] soulmate! And a perfect Dad to his three children. We lost him 12-1-03”
NAME: James M. Fahey
HOMETOWN: Foxboro
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Marine Corps, served from 2002-04 as a E-3 Lance Corporal. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: National Defense Ribbon, Sea-Service Deployment Ribbon.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Infantry Rifleman, Squad Automatic Weapon/M203 Grenade Launcher Gunner. Restricted Personnel Escort, Team Leader. Was directly responsible and accountable for the discipline, training, moral, and quality of life to the team of Marines entrusted unto him for leadership. Conducted Security Force mission on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Conducted Fenceline Security at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Guantanamo, Cuba.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Getting to experience Esprit de corps with my fellow Marines and forging lifelong friendships with them.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Positively impacted my life by instilling discipline and military bearing in me. Made me able to solve problems more efficiently and learn how to cope with stress easily.”
NAME: Thomas F. Fallon
HOMETOWN: Brookline
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, served in WWII for 30 months in the 45th Infantry Division in Northern Africa, Italy, France, Holland, and Germany. Served in Battles in Central Europe, Naples, Foggia, Rome, Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, Ardennes. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Medal, European/African/Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbons, Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, 6 Battle Stars.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Mortar Crewman, Rifleman, Mortar Crewman (HVY)
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Assault on Anzio, Italy where he received the Bronze Star taking out a German Machine Gun Nest.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “More interested in taking care of his buddies than himself.”
NAME: Philip Fishman
HOMETOWN: Brockton
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy March 12, 1943; discharged May 8, 1945. Final rank Storekeeper 1st Class. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Medal, WWII Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, Navy Occupation Service Medal (Asia)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Storekeeper-inventoried supplies and equipment. Rescued others-he was on an LST most of the time
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “According to his sister- he adjusted fine. He was always a very outgoing person and continued to be that way even after the War. Always soft- spoken, but always got his points across”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Working together you can get through almost anything”
Philip Fishman (Cont’d)
Philip Fishman (Cont’d)
Philip Fishman (Cont’d)
NAME: David M. Fitzgerald
HOMETOWN: Quincy
SERVICE INFORMATION: Served in the US Army Special Forces in Vietnam
RESPONSIBILITIES: Special Forces Radio Operator
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: Much difficulty
NAME: Joseph K. Gallagher
HOMETOWN: Dedham
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served in WWII aboard the USS Lexington (an aircraft carrier from time commissioned until peace treaty at Tokyo Bay.)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Damage Control
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Being attacked by a Kamikaze. Being aboard the Lexington for the signing of the peace treaty in Tokyo Bay”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Keeping cool under fire”
NAME: Timothy F. Galvin
HOMETOWN: Dorchester
SERVICE INFORMATION:Enlisted in the US Navy October 1952, served on Active Duty from 1952-56 (Korean War) and 3 months a year from 1966-70 (Vietnam War), served in the Navy Reserve until retiring in 1975. Final Rank Captain of the USS Strickland
RESPONSIBILITIES: “After graduating from Officers Candidate School, assigned as Assistant Engineering Officer on USS Strickland DER333. Served in the North Atlantic on Operation DewLine intercepting unidentified ships and aircraft heading to the US. Qualified as Officer of the Deck and Command Duty Officer. Promoted to Department Head-Chief Engineer, promoted to Senior Watch Officer. Temporarily promoted to Executive Officer.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Did not serve actively in Korean Waters-Most memorable experiences were three: Officer of the Deck during 2 Hurricanes, and Confronting a Russian Submarine off of our coast.”
To see video interview: Timothy Galvin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Td_jFk_ohk Timothy Galvin (part 2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stY7VLAC90g
NAME: Donald L. Hayes
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the 26th Infantry Division, the “Yankee” Division of the National Guard, was called up to the US Army to serve in the Korean War as a Sergeant SP2
RESPONSIBILITIES: Hayes was the Sergeant in charge of the engineering division, particularly building bridges
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He was just happy to be home. We were just married when he was called up”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “He didn’t talk about his time in Korea-too painful”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Loyalty”
NAME: George Alton Hunt
HOMETOWN: Boston
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy as a Gunner where he served for 3 ½ years.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “A little uncomfortable at first and then adjusted back normally.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Made him appreciate life more.
NAME: Thomas L. Hurley
HOMETOWN: Medfield, MA
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted upon graduation of high school in the US Navy from 1942 to 1945.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Acted as a chief gunner, steered the ship and manned the helm.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Remained in close contact with his shipmates for nearly seventy years, until the last one passed away in 2010, and also enjoyed being able to drink orange juice in Racefe, Brazil.
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Gained a heightened sense of responsibility from tour of duty.
NAME: Alex Jacobson
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Marines, served 2000-2004 as a Corporal in Afghanistan, was at 19, one of the very first to be sent overseas after 9/11/2001
RESPONSIBILITIES: Served as a Sniper in Reconnaissance missions
NAME: Thomas F. Joyce
HOMETOWN: Roslindale
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served as MR2
RESPONSIBILITIES: Worked in a Machine Shop-did service and repair
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Tom was discharged in Boston and returned to his family home. He later married, had children, graduated Wentworth and Northeastern University with a degree in mechanical design and engineering. He retired from Raytheon in 1996.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Tom’s most memorable experience was his service on the USS Palau CVE 122. This ship was designated to carry Air Craft and the Marines to Japan during the Korean War.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Service to our nation, work ethic and the value of comradeship and friendships to last a lifetime.”
NAME: Thomas Keefe
HOMETOWN: Bridgeport, Connecticut
SERVICE INFORMATION: Army Air Corps, World War II
RESPONSIBILITIES: Staff sergeant and gunner, B-17 bomber, KIA.
Thomas was killed in action in Czechoslovakia.
NAME: Christopher Matthew Kelly
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Marines, 2001-2007, served as a Lance Corporal in Operation Iraqi Freedom, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: 81 MM Mortar gunner, Forward Observer, Fire Direction Center
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He adjusted well, finished college and married.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Coming home and the joy he felt of being back with his friends and family.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Learned not to stress the small issues of everyday life, they are not that important. Learned to enjoy every day.”
NAME: John Matthew Kennedy
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served 1942-45, probably as a Seaman 2nd Class,
RESPONSIBILITIES: “He served on 3 different ships in the South Pacific during WWII”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “His ship, the USS Palmer, was sunk by a Kamikaze”
NAME: Paul Ernest Kremer
HOMETOWN: West Roxbury
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Naval Air Force, served from 1942-45 (WWII) as an Ensign Pilot. KILLED at age 22 in dive bombing training.
RESPONSIBILITIES: “He was in training as a cadet pilot for two years in the US training to fly a TBF Avenger.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Paul was born in Germany in 1922. He came to this country at age 10 in 1932. He loved this country and loved being a U. S. citizen. Paul served on an air plane carrier. He was 22 years old when he was killed while training.
NAME: Walter J. Landry
HOMETOWN: Dorchester
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, 1940-1961, final rank Lieutenant Colonel. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Silver Star (for Valor), Bronze Star (2) (For Valor), Purple Heart-wounded in Action
RESPONSIBILITIES: Became squad leader, platoon leader, troop commander, squadron commander.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Quite a relief”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Liberation of 3700 American and Allied Civilian Internees in St. Tomas Internment Camp, Manila, Luzon, P.I in February 1945”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “To trust your fellow Americans and try to gain and merit the trust of your fellow soldiers”
NAME: Charles G. Leonard
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Army, served 1943-46 (WWII), was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: 4 Battle Stars (Northern France, Rhineland, Ardenes, Central Europe)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Collection, research and dissemination of German engineer equipment mainly land mines, booby traps, and explosives.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Meeting Russian Army at Elbe River
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Caution with explosives.
NAME: James M. Martin
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: On Active Duty 1966-1970, served in Vietnam; ML King Riot Control in Washington, DC; Mediterranean Naval Deployment; Served with 11th Marines, 7th Marines-Vietnam, 8th Marines-Europe; Retired in 1994 as a Lieutenant Colonel after 28 years of service (4 on active duty, 24 in reserve)
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Many of us were portrayed as ‘baby killers,’ ‘wackos,’ drug addicts, etc by the media/American people. Vietnam, though portrayed as stopping the Asian Communist domino effect, was actually a creation of advisors duty by several thousand military personnel to 2 ½ million when ‘LBJ’ created the FALSE ‘Gulf of Tonkin’ attack to protect the drug trade in the Asian ‘Golden Triangle’ and send soldiers home as addicts with ‘agent orange’ damage. Veteran groups didn’t want us to join. ‘Baby Killers’”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “When a young Marine brought history to life regarding ‘Merchants of War’ 1) Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara (former President of Ford Motor) 2) 90% of all combat radios made by Philco-Ford 3) Nameplate in ALL Jeeps said ‘Ford Motor Co.’ 4) Hundreds of Ford Broncos in Vietnam”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “I found that in 1933 General Smedley Butler (USMC) wrote ‘war is a racket… For 33 years I served on 3 continents as a high clubs muscle man for big business, for Wall Street and for the bankers, in short, I was a racketeer, a gangster for capitalism. Looking back on it I feel that I could have given Al Capone a few hints. The best he could do was operate his racket in three districts. I operated on three continents.’ There are, he said, only two things we should fight for- 1) To defend our homes and 2) To defend the Bill of Rights, any other reason is simply a racket. General Butler, for the record, received TWO Medals of Honor. He died in 1940 strongly opposed to WWII involvement”
NAME: Nicholas R. Martin
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Army, served in WWII in the Chemical Warfare Service in the Army Corps of Engineers. Served as a private Feb 1945 to Jan 1946, promoted to 2nd Lieutenant Jan 1946 to October 1946.
RESPONSIBILITIES: To study the effects of atomic weapons on military equipment (gas masks, weapons, ships, etc).
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “After serving, he always hated standing in lines; refused to eat scrambled eggs for many years because of the awful ones he had in the Army. He was amazed at what was available under the GI Bill for education.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Participating in atomic bomb tests at Belanic Atoll, he was sent in after explosions to measure radiation exposures. The first time he and his team were sent in without proper safety equipment.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Question orders-don’t just ‘jump to’”
NAME: Charles A Mathys
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Army, served as a Private First Class from 1950-52 (Korea)
RESPONSIBILITIES: Repaired communications equipment
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Traveling, most notably 18 months in Germany
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Becoming a more responsible adult”
NAME: Jack McElroy
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in 1983 as a Second Lieutenant in the US Marine Corps, first stationed at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola FL. 1985 designated a Naval Aviator, completed shipboard deployments with the 11th and 13th Marine Expeditionary Units (Special Operations Capable) as a CH-53E pilot. Deployed as a Forward Air Controller with First Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Then completed transition training to the F/A-18C Hornet and completed carrier deployments to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. He then served as an adversary pilot flying the F-5E Tiger II. He deployed with Second Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and upon return from combat operations in Iraq he was assigned to the Pentagon where he served at International Plans/Policies, Headquarters, USMC with a follow-on tour with the Joint Staff, J5, Western Hemisphere/Homeland Defense Strategic Plans and Policy. He has accumulated over 4000 hours of flight time in various USMC aircrafts and has logged 225 carrier arrested landings. From January 2009 to January 2010 he served as the Deputy Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group Two in the Middle East. From January 2010 to April 2010 he served in assisting the Haitian people affected by the earthquake. Colonel McElroy is currently stationed in Virginia Beach (July 2010) and is set to retire in the fall of 2010.
He has been awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Defense Superior Service Medal Bronze Star with Combat V device, Air Medal with Strike Flight device, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat V device (2), Combat Action Ribbon (2)
DATES OF PROMOTION: Second Lieutenant May 15, 1983; First Lieutenant May 1985; Captain July 1, 1988; Major January 1, 1995; Lieutenant Colonel February 1, 2000; Colonel July 1, 2005.
Jack McElroy (Cont’d)
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Flew helicopters (CH-53E), then served in Desert Storm as a forward air controller with the Marine ground forces, and then flew the F-18 Hornet before serving in other positions with USMC. Not too many people have this background.
NAME: James F. McGill
HOMETOWN: Pittsfield
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted as a Plebe to the US Naval Academy 1950, served in the US Navy 1950-1958 (Korea), final rank Lieutenant
RESPONSIBILITIES: Gunnery Officer on the USS Samuel B. Roberts DD 823, 1954-56, Combat Information Systems Officer on the Carrier USS Leyte from 1956-58
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Jim loved being back with family although he had made any friends in the Navy. He adjusted very well to civilian life.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “The world cruise that he and his shipmates made was an outstanding event. Jim wrote a book about it.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Team work and hard work in defense of his country was a proud achievement.”
NAME: Helen McLaren
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Coast Guard, served as a Yeoman First Class and was up for Chief Yeoman when the war ended, served 1943-46 WWII
RESPONSIBILITIES: “I traveled the New England States in the Recruiting Offices trying to attract other women to enter the US Coast Guard-SPARS-which means Semper Paratus- Always Prepared”
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “It was no problem for me to adjust back to normal life. I enjoyed three happy years in the service”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Every day was a memorable experience for me, traveling the New England States-Mass. NH, Maine, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Connecticut was not in my territory.”
To see a video interview:
Helen McLaren: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hps4jsTLqrI Helen McLaren (part 2): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5p3JxQnlbC8
NAME: Helen McLaren and her husband William P. McLaren (deceased 1998)
SERVICE INFORMATION: “We both served in the US Coast Guard 1943-46. We were both members of the Westwood American Legion Post #320. First Couple to join and I’m (Helen) still a member”
NAME: John P. McMorrow
HOMETOWN: Dorchester
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served 1943-47 WWII, served from 1946-47 as a supply officer on the USS Gilette 681
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: No problem.
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “To work to the best possible level that can be made. Service made me more mature.”
NAME: Fred Meagher
HOMETOWN: Jamaica Plain MA
SERVICE STATISTICS: Enlisted into US Army, served as a Captain from 1952-54 in the 45th Division, 151st Field Artillery Battalion
RESPONSIBILITIES: “My principal duty was ‘forward observer’ - spent my time with the infantry supplying them with fire power- had available light+heavy artillery-Naval Guns and Air Force
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “The unit next to us on the line were overrun by Chinese and North Koreans. We had to move suddenly and into a new and untamable position but we held.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “To depend on your neighbor and work together”
NAME: Stuart Meridan
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in 1942 in the US Army in the 91st Infantry Division in the Italian Campaign (WWII). Served over 3 years.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: No problem – went right back to work.
NAME: Genevieve Morek
HOMETOWN: Clifton, NJ
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army Nurse Corps, served 1943-45 as a Sergeant
RESPONSIBILITIES: “My mother nursed veterans returning from South Pacific Theatre who had TB”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “I think my mother was humbled by how much disease was killing Vets in the South Pacific Theatre. But mostly she remembered the independence and fun she had traveling West with other nurses. She was only 21-22.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “My mother learned that it was a lot more fun for a 21 year old to live away from home than at home. My mother always gave to veterans organizations.”
NAME: Peter M. Nee
HOMETOWN: Enlisted in the US Marine Corps, served from 1968-1969 (Vietnam), was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Purple Heart (2), KIA March 31 1969
Peter M. Nee (Cont’d)
Peter M. Nee (Cont’d)
NAME: Michael Joseph O’Neil
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy in WWII from 1943-45 where he served as a Seabee
RESPONSIBILITIES: “As a Seabee he repaired bridges and roads and built/rebuilt structures”
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: He found it “very difficult-my father had a problem before enlisting which became much worse after the War and he died at age 43 in 1957”
NAME: Francis P. Papasadero
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, where he served as a Seaman in the 2nd Submarine Service on nuclear subs, he was awarded a Leadership Commendation award
RESPONSIBILITIES: Ballast and Trim Specialist
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: Resumed athletic career (was semi-pro prior to war), settled in Seattle, coached and played at Seattle University. Voted coach of the year in baseball – Pacific North West.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “How grateful [he was] not having to go into the Pacific [because] it was over”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Value of teamwork, value of veterans having served their country”
NAME: John E. Patterson
HOMETOWN: West Roxbury
SERVICE INFORMATION: USMC Private First Class 1942 to 1945. Enlisted at age 16 after Pearl Harbor-changed birth year to qualify-was in balloon barrage unit and infantry
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: Did not discuss adjustment.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Was with Gov. Salstonstall’s son Peter when he was killed in action
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Discipline
John E. Patterson (Cont’d)
NAME: Melvin R. Perlman
HOMETOWN: Roxbury
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted (ROTC) in the US Army, served from 1939-45, in Virginian and Boston.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He went to work and back to school to get his law degree.”
RESPONSIBILITIES: Supplies and provisions procurement/obtaining
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “His duffle bag went oversees but he didn’t.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “He was made an Adjutant General for a Court Martial for a fellow soldier Ken Marshall. He was not yet a lawyer (he later got a J.D law degree) but he got Ken off easily because Ken’s uncle was General Marshall and the charge wasn’t too serious.” “He was, as a parent, involved heavily in the Boy Scouts and went on many camping trips but never stayed in a tent again after leaving the Army.”
NAME: John L. Pritchard
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served from 1956-77 as a Personnelman First Class Petty Officer PN1 (E-6). Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Good Conduct Award (with bronze star-2nd award), Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Medal Color with Palm), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960s Device, Antarctic Service Medal.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Provided enlisted personnel with information and counseling related to Navy occupations, opportunities for general education and job training, requirements for promotion, and rights and benefits. Assist enlisted personnel and their families with special problems or personal hardships. Maintain personnel records of naval personnel (officer and enlisted). Court reporter, “Legal Yeoman” throughout service. Classification interviewer and Brig Counselor. Naval Management Analyzer. Job Analyzer/manpower distribution specialist and time studies specialist. Vocational and placement counselor. Qualified as Officer of the Deck both underway and in port.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Participant in the recovery of Mercury-Atlas 4, the first unmanned spaceflight of the Mercury program. The launch took place on September 13, 1961 at 2:09 PM from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The craft (now in the Smithsonian) orbited the earth once. The flight was an orbital test of the Mercury Program [all previous flights had been suborbital]. The flight was recovered 176 miles east of Bermuda. One hour and twenty-two minutes after splashdown the destroyer USS DECATUR (DD-936) recovered the capsule. The DECATUR was thirty-four miles from the landing point at time of splashdown and the closest vessel to the site. All objectives of the flight were met. I was a member of the crew at that time. Had previously participated in the recovery forces for the first US manned space flight (Freedom 7) of Alan B. Shepard on May 5, 1961 aboard the USS DECATUR DD-936. The DECATUR was part of the recovery force with the USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN DVS-39 recovering the capsule and Astronaut Alan B. Shephard. Participated in opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Inland Cruise and Great lakes Waterway opening aboard the USS DECATUR DD-936. Was assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion Two PHIBCB 2 and the headquarters of Commander, Naval Construction Battalions US Navy Seabees, Atlantic Fleet for most of my service and these assignments I consider the highlights of my military career.
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: Working as a team (camaraderie), patience.
NAME: John Michael Pritchard
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Drafted into the US Navy, served from 4/17/1944 to 11/2/1945 (WWII) as a Storekeeper 2nd Class Petty Officer, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: American Theatre World War II Victory Medal.
RESPONSIBILITIES: John Pritchard served as a Storekeeper at the US Naval Training Station, Sampson, New York. During WWII storekeepers procured, stowed, preserved, packaged, issued clothing, spare parts, provisioned and were involved all other supplies need; kept inventories, prepared requisitions, checked incoming supplies and stocks for quantity and could perform some disbursing duties and operate typewriters and other office machines. Sk2 Pritchard was assigned to the commissary and his duties involved accounting.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “John Pritchard, like many, had a family and like many WWII vets immediately found jobs and if they had difficulties adjusting, most of those around them weren’t aware of them.”
NAME: Pierre E Provost, M.D.
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Coast Guard Public Health Service from July 1966 to July 1968.
RESPONSIBILITIES: His responsibility was being a physician and surgeon in charge of a hospital at Rosebud Reservation, SD, and on a Coast Guard cutter.
NAME: Sean Quinn
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served in the Gulf War 1994-98, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: E-4 AO3 Good Conduct, Armed Expedition, Armed Forces Battle E; Sharp Shooter in Small Arms
RESPONSIBILITIES: Weapons on the flight deck of USS Kitty Hawk
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Tough”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Working hard for a good cause”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “How great this country is, and how many people take it for granted”
NAME: Francis J. Rossetti
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted (had to lie to get in at 16) in the US Army, served from 1944-1977 (Very end of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam), final rank Sgt. Major, served in the US Army National Guard in the 70’s, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Silver Star, Bronze Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: As a Sergeant Major he was the go between with the men in his platoon and the CO. He had to be the “Sheriff” and role model. He was also the “tough guy” soldiers feared.
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “He had a difficult time with the lack of discipline in the private sector (my childhood was one of discipline) and did not like people making excuses for bad behavior.”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “He always cherished the bonds between the soldiers. He also liked the structure of the military. Some of his most memorable moments included the extreme cold in Korea and the extreme heat in Vietnam.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “That every option should be looked at before sending men and women into a war. Although he served with honor for 30+ years, he never thought war was the answer.”
NAME: George B. Saunders
HOMETOWN: Westwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted after high school in the US Navy, served from 1942-44 (WWII) as a Seaman 1st Class on aircraft carrier USS Franklin, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Purple Heart posthumously. KIA October 30, 1944 by a Japanese suicide plane in the South Pacific.
NAME: Donald Schauerte
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in US Navy during WWII, served as a Seaman First Class, was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: American Theatre Medal, European- African Middle Eastern Theatre Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Medal, Arctic Campaign Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: Sub Lookout, Anti-Aircraft Watches; Firing 16” Main Battery Guns; Naval Base Security
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “The so-called ‘turkey shoot’ in the Pacific”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “USA is the best place to live! Far better living standards”
NAME: Robert G. Smith
HOMETOWN: Newburyport
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served from June 23 1944-June 5 1946, stationed at Sampson, New York and Brunswick, Maine. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: WWII Victory Medal, American Theatre Medal.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Aviation Storekeeper, took care of supplies.
NAME: Dale Stauffer
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, served from September 1969-April 1971 (Vietnam War) as a Specialist 4th Class
RESPONSIBILITIES: Payroll Specialist
ADJUSTING BACK TO NORMAL LIFE: “Difficult due to anti-war feeling”
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Lost my best buddy. He was killed”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “Politicians start wars and then keep the military’s hands tied while they fight the war”
Dale Stauffer (Cont’d)
NAME: Walter Sweeney
HOMETOWN: Norwood
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, served as an E-5 Specialist from 1967- 1970 in Vietnam
RESPONSIBILITIES: Encrypting Data at Communications Center in Long Bintt; Teletype Operator; Supervisor of Communications Center in California
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “During the first month of my arrival in Vietnam, I was put on Perimeter Guard Duty. Around midnight, I saw in the distance a large mushroom cloud about 10 miles away. I thought it was an atomic bomb but the Vietnamese had bombed an ammo dump. I certainly stayed awake that night!”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “When I arrived at boot camp everyone was given the same clothing, the same duties to perform and the same food to eat. Everyone was treated the same. The camaraderie in a war zone made it much easier [to bear]”
NAME: Leo Talbot
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Army, served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam
RESPONSIBILITIES: Combat Hospital Administrator
NAME: Stuart P. Tauber
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the New Jersey Army National Guard in February 1963, where he served in the 102nd Cavalry Regiment. From 1963-65 he was a Rifleman, Cavalry Troop. 1965-66, Officer Candidate School. 1966- Commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. 1966- 75 Served in various positions, Recon. Platoon Leader, Company Commander of three Armored Units and Staff Officer in a Medium Tank Battalion. 1975-76 US Army Reserve. 1976-79 Captain, Staff Officer. 26th Yankee Infantry Division, Massachusetts Army National Guard. 1979-2000 Major, Commander of the 65th Public Affairs Detachment, Mass. Army National Guard. Lieutenant Colonel, Headquarters of Mass. National Guard-Staff. Colonel, Director of Public Affairs, Mass. National Guard. March 2000 Retired as Colonel. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal (3), Selective Service Meritorious Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (5), Humanitarian Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal of Army Reserve Overseas Training Ribbon.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Over 37+ years I had many experiences that were memorable. I truly relished commanding many outstanding soldiers, especially in the Korea + volunteer army. Deployments to Germany twice for training were unique experiences and also service in Bosnia was a real eye-opener! I served during periods of great threat to our nation and constantly trained for potential mobilization. Fortunately I was very lucky not to have been called. Myself and fellow reservists were always at the ready.”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “My Army service was an avocation and very important in my life. It taught me responsibility, leadership, and overall command and management, the importance of completion of mission while additionally care and concern for subordinates being paramount. I learned to appreciate this great country and the values of service; i.e., duty, honor and country. The service taught me that we are all responsible for one another!”
NAME: Richard C. Toland
HOMETOWN: Roslindale
SERVICE INFORMATION: Enlisted in the US Navy, served 1956-1959 as a Lieutenant Junior Grade
RESPONSIBILITIES: Jr. Officer aboard the USS Tarawa (CVS-40) an anti-submarine aircraft carrier, home-based at Quonset Point, RI. Served as radio officer, first lieutenant of the ship and officer of the deck, underway.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): “Hurricane at sea while officer of the deck”
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “A very positive experience. First 3 years out of college, more responsibility and life experiences than civilian life would have provided. Enabled me to get a good job after discharge.”
NAME: George W. Wallace
HOMETOWN: West Roxbury
SERVICE INFORMATION: Was in US Navy Reserve, elevated to active duty to US Navy in 1950 for the Korean War, served 1950-52 as a Machinist Mate 3rd Class on the USS Missouri. Was awarded the following AWARDS/MEDALS: Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, United Nations Ribbon, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Occupation Medal, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, national Defense Ribbon, Republic of Korea Medal
RESPONSIBILITIES: Serviced Oil pumps to one of ships main engines.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S): Was aboard USS Missouri during invasion of Inchon and Wonsan in South Korea. The evacuation of Hungnam, North Korea on Christmas Eve 1950
MOST VALUABLE LESSON LEARNED: “I learned discipline and teamwork [which are both] very important in war time.”
June 5, 2010 Ryan Dukeman Life Scout Boy Scout Troop 3 Westwood, MA 02090
MAILING ADDRESS Dear Westwood Veteran/Family Member, 57 Sexton Avenue Westwood, MA 02090 My name is Ryan Dukeman, and I am a Life Scout with Boy PHONE Scout Troop 3 Westwood. For my Eagle Scout Project, I am 781-551-9405
EMAIL gathering information and stories from local veterans and/or their
I got the idea for this project from hearing war stories from my two grandfathers, both of whom have bricks dedicated to them at this park. One of my grandfathers, a WWII/Battle of the Bulge Veteran, regularly speaks at local high schools and the students are truly invested in and impressed by his stories. I was very fortunate to be able to attend the dedication ceremony of the WWII memorial in Washington Dc with my grandfather. At that ceremony, I learned how important it is to honor and learn from our veterans.
Hearing their stories got me thinking that having one place with many veterans’ stories all together would be a great resource for the people of this town. Hopefully with your stories and information, we can bring the Veterans Park to life. This will be a great honor to our veterans and beneficial to all citizens of Westwood.
I hope you will take the time to fill out the attached questionnaire and mail it back to the address listed in the margin. Please feel free to include pictures, copies, or PDFs of items relating to your veteran and his/her time in the service, such as medals, letters home, or a picture of them in uniform. In addition, if you would like to schedule a taped interview, please email or call me. Each story I get will make the project much better, and your answers are much appreciated.
Thanks Again for contributing to this Living Memorial
Ryan Dukeman
Troop 3 Westwood
Veterans’ Questionnaire PLEASE SIGN THE FORM ON THE BACK OF THIS SHEET PLEASE COMPLETE A SURVEY FOR EACH VETERAN YOU HONORED Wartime Veterans 1. What is the name and address of the veteran honored on your brick at the time of service?
2. Which branch of the military did the honoree serve in, during what year(s)/war(s), what rank were they, and if applicable, what awards/medals did they receive and for what?
3. Was the honored veteran drafted or did they enlist? 4. What were some of their responsibilities in the service?
5. How did the honoree find adjusting back to normal life after serving in war?
6. What was their most memorable war experience(s)?
7. What was the most valuable lesson that the veteran learned as a result of their experience?
PLEASE TURN OVER FOR THE PEACETIME VETERANS’ FORM AND THE RELEASE FORM
Peacetime Veterans 1. What is the name and address of the veteran honored on your brick at the time of service?
2. Which branch of the military did the honoree serve in, during what year(s), what rank were they, and if applicable, what awards/medals did they receive?
3. What were the honoree’s responsibilities, and where did they serve?
4. How do they feel their time in the service impacted their life and approach to problems/difficulties in life?
5. What was their most memorable experience in the service?
RELEASE FORM Project name: Ryan Dukeman’s Eagle Project, Bringing the Veterans Park to Life Date: ______Name of person(s) interviewed: ______Address: ______Telephone number:______Date of birth:______By signing the form below, you give your permission for any tapes, photographs, text, or other media made during this project to be used by researchers and the public for educational purposes including publications, exhibitions, World Wide Web, and presentations. By giving your permission, you do not give up any copyright or performance rights that you may hold. I agree to the uses of these materials described above, except for any restrictions, noted below. Name (please print): ______Signature: ______