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9-1-1973
The Octofoil, September/October 1973
Ninth Infantry Division Association
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A~r.iAtion 4'2 Gregory Ave. Weehawken. N. J. 07087 Dues; $5.00 D8f year - $1.50 THE NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION will beearmarked to pay for the Oetofoil VOLU~~XX~III NUMBER 5 SEPT-OCT 1973
President's Mes~age COlllld Pisl fir 14 1IIIili II 1lIIIti
I would like to express my thanks to the Officers and Members of the Ninth Infantry Division Association for the honor that they have bestowed upon me in Boston, at the 1973 Reunion, in electing me President of this Association for the ensuing year 1973-74. I will do all that I can to uphold the great traditions of the Association and the great works of the Past Presidents of this fine organization. I would like to set' everyone at the 29th Memorial Mass at . Worcester Mass on Oct. 21, 1973 and it's nottooearly to start planning for the 1974 Reunion at Atlanta Georgia. Sincerely. Fred M. Josey
.Harry O's Report On Worcester
YOU GOT TO who have passed on Since. He BELIEVE IT recalled the 9th Div'iSlon Route Saturday evening. October 20, from Africa to the Elba River. 1973 was one of the finest social He also said that we shold affairs Father Connors ever continue to have faith in God had. It was immensely enjoyed faith in our country and to pra; by approximately 650 9th for one another. The sounding of Division men, women, children taps concluded the Services. and friends who came from After the indoor services were many sections of the United over, the outside services at the States. The joy of meeting your MEMORIAL SHRINE were ATLANTA m<1y deem suitable to preserve friends, the congenial at held. We heard many inspiring Atlanta, one of the nation's greatest cities, abounds with the remembrance of the late mosphere and the unlimited speeches from City officials, supply of food and drinks were things to see and do. Atlanta is a great sports city, home of the Henry A. Whalen. which included Mayor Joseph B~aves, Falcons and Hawks. Atlanta is a great cultural city, some of the ingredients that M. Tinsley, Congressman A few years ago when the made for this happy occasion. With a famous symphony orchestra, theatre and dance groups, Harold D. Donohue, City and a leading museum of art. Historic attractions are Association held its reunion at The entire program from Manager Francis McGrath Ft. Bragg we were seated at a Saturday to Sunday was well everywhere; don't miss the Battle of Atlanta Cyclorama, the members of the Clergy and giant Stone Mountain carvings, restored Underground Atlanta banquet table with Harry planned and organized. Parish and President Fred Whalen. Now Harry was the It is a privilege and pleasure and much more. Atlanta is the exciting six Flags over Georgia, Josey of the 9th Division fine shopping, thriving business community. Atlanta is the type of fellow who enjoyed a to attend Father Connors Association. At the conclusion a good time and liked nothing Annual Memorial Service. They warm hospitality you'll enjoy at the city's favorite hotel, the 9th Division Wreath was placed Sheraton-Biltmore. better than to sit around till the continue to get.better and better at the Shrine. wee hours of the morning as the years go by. To add to our swapping tall tales with his enjoyment we had lovely fall INTHEHOUSE buddies from the 47th, so we weather. Following the MEMORIAL OF REPRESENTATIVES were surprised to see him When Father Connors in August 3, 1973 getting ready to leave as soon as troduced and thanked the SERVICES we travelled to the Sheraton-Lincoln Inn where a 1111011 the banquet was over. We said, parishioners for the delectable delicious dinner was served. "Harry, what's your hurry, the buffet dinner and gracious Father Connors was Master of Mr. Biaggi introduced the evening is still young". He hospitality there was a thun following bill; which was replied, "I have to catch the derous round of applause from Ceremonies. Again we heard many good speakers from the referred to the Committee on night train to New York, you see the audience. Parish, the City Officials and Veterans' Affairs every Sunday morning I bring The music played by the Band bllill Dates the 9th Division Association the Sunday papers to the guys at added to the enjoyment of the members. They had the ABILL the Bronx Veterans Hospital occasion. There was dancing, audience continually laughing To designate the Veterans' and if I'm not there tomorrow singing, entertainment, a with their facetious comments, Ilg. l' 3 Administration hospital in the morning those poor fellows wonderful spirit of warm sophisticated remarks and the Bronx, New York, as the won't have anything to read." friendship and an opportunity to "Henry A. Whalen Memorial That brief exchange with Harry reminisce. "friendly . rivalry" that perennially exists between the Veterans' Hospital", and for m a de me realize how ITWASA BUSY other purposes. dedicated he was to the cause of SUNDAY, OCT. 21,1973 speakers vs. Father Connors. Pete Radichio traveled from the veteran. So I was not sur The day began with a march' I Santa Monica, Calif., but his Be it enacted by the Senate prised to learn that a Bill (H.R. from the Grove Street Fire A plaque was' presented to the lovely wife Sue could not make and House of Representatives of 9868) has been introduced in the Station. Leading the parade was "Parishioners of Father Connor's the trip because of ill health. the United States of AQ1erica in Iiouse of Hepresentatives by the Worcester Police Honor Church for the hospitality Rev. Robert Curtis, a former Congress assembled, That the Congressman Biaggi which Guard band and finally the shown to members of the Ninth Chaplain with the 39th, made Veterans' Administration recommended that the marchers which included I hosptal in the Bronx, New York Veterans Adm inistration and their families throughout his first trip to the Memorial all Father Connors. We paraded to shall hereafter be known and hospital in the Bronx, N.Y. be th~ years. • Father . the way from Monterey, Calif. the Immaculate Conception designated as the "Henry A. designated as the "Henry A. Connors, in expressing his (222 Laine - zip 93940). The Church. Whalen Memorial Veterans' Whalen Memorial Veterans' THE ANNUAL 'appreciation, stated that he padre recently retired from looks forward to the 30th AN Hospital". Any reference to Hospital". Harry was no MEMORIAL MASS active duty with his church and such hospital in any law, NUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE . is pinch-hitting at a nearby Air' strange to the corridors of that Father Connors delivered the regulation, document, record. hospital and it is only fitting 'to be held again in Worcester. Force base in California. 29th ANNUAL MEMORIAL or other paper of the United that the building where he spent MASS before a capacity States shall be deemed a so many hours helping the audience. He remarked that we Rev. Ralton Speers from reference to it as the Henry A. disabled veterans bear his should say prayers for the 4,581 Albany, New York gave the Best regards to all. \Vhalen Memorial Veterans' name men of the 9th Infantry who Closing Prayer and another Sincerely yours, llospital. Congressman Biaggi also made the SUPREME H'arry Oret"lstein Sec 2. The Administrator 01 entered into the Congressional SACRIFICE, as well as for wonderful 9th Division Memorial Mass cam(' to a close. 901 Walton Avenue Veterans Affairs is authorized Hecord of August I, 19n a those men of the 9th Division Bronx, N.Y. 10152 to provid(' such memorial at th(~ stirring tribute to Henry A. abl)\,('-tlampd hospital as be \\hal(·n. An American Patriot. THE OCTOFOll
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP. MANAGEMENT * THE OCTOFOIL * ~aps AND CIRCULATION Form 3579 should be sent to 412 Gregon' Avenue, 'Weehawken N. J. 07087 ff OCTOFOIL 'ASSOCIATED I':DITOHS 'Walter O'Kee e (Act of October 23, 1962; Section 4369, Title 39, United States Code) and Daniel Quinn. 1. Date filed: 9-29-73. 2. Title of Publication: THE OCTOFOIL. 3. Fred Josey, President. j,Ounllrb 8162 Green Valle,\: pnve ., Frequency of issue: Hi-monthly. 4. Location of knQwn office of Grand Blanc. MIChlg'
expect. Van, 1 took the book with me, I still have it, I have people were 10 the process of finished it, and I shall return it replacing the floor in the belfry, with appropriate apologies to but they still permitted me to Frau Stollenwerk on the clatter up the dizzy heights (for morrow! Perhaps she will me) and take another shot of forgive me, I am certain she what is pictured on page 304 of will, she is a most gracious the history! Here too the Siebengebirge Mountains, with hostess, and hearing that I was reception was warm and all This is the conclusion and OUR MAN the right wing near 441, and the a former Ninth man, I was truly seemed most inquisitive about Part Two of the Remagen IN EUROPE left wing near 206, north of warmly received - we have left the history book, which all Bridge as written by a German Dear Dan! (twelve) laborers had to look at. General. We were sorry we Ariendorf. a fine name in the neigh 13 March. In the meantime As the membership of the 9th Now the tour begins, a bit more could not include it with the last Infantry Division Association borhood! the Division had received some determined with certain exact issue of the Octofoil but space read this letter (which I trust SCHMIDT single units from the Repl. points to be visited - out of would not allow it. - Thanks to you'll print in the Octofoi!), I As said, at 0500 the following Trng. Army and from tank Dreiborn, around the horn via Scotty Hirst for sending us the trust they'll have a copy of morning I was up for my con repair shops, ranging in Hoefen to Monschau - here the story. division WWII history, 'Eight stitutional - and took the view strength from groups to com tourists were by the thousands, Stars to Victory' before them from Schmidt, this time, to the 1'm enclosing a ten page panies, and also some single thus I did not try to duplicate without it they can not ap south - a sight I fear no 'then' typed report, which would not tanks with crews. All these the photos on page 246 or 278 but preciate the picture-words I'll Ninth division man will ever take too much space in the fragmentary groups were pressed right on via Sim tell them of! forget. But, back in my trusty Octofoil, of former General formed into a panzerbrigade Pontiac (I buy American) and merath, Vossenach, Huertgen RETURNS leiutnant Gustav von Wieter with an improvised staff under wald to Krewinkel - page 260. As promised, I made the off for Nideggen via Harscheidt sheim of the German 11. Panzer the command of General-major But let it be known, Krewinkel return to the Schneeifel, to and Hetzingen. Rising over the von Buttler; this unit was then has NO church, the church Division, the GOth opponent at recount the travels of the bridge, up the steep approach to Ohlenburg! The division's committed at the left wing of pictured in the history is in Divisions during the period the town, here too one is greeted headquarters was at Kahlen the Division. The Task Force of MAUSBACH, but trees have September 1944 to February with unforgettable visages - but, born, a 47th target! And, from the Panzerlehr Division formed , hidden the possibility of 1945 and to try and duplicate all is reconstructed - this town is which town the 11 (German) the core of this unit. The enemy duplicating the photo, though today, pictures taken then. I most certainly a tourist's attacks in the center of the the steeple is different today. Armoured planned to cut the had some measure of success delight with its buildings of divisional front during that day On to Schevenhuette, there we bridge-head by a thrust to and I'll tell you all about it. seemingly indestructable Ockenfels Kasbach on the were mostly intercepted or else did an excellent duplication, sandstone and all so neat and looks today like then (page 250) Rhine. It is most interesting to they were halted by local COUNTY OF MONSCHAU trim and picturesque. I trundled read von Wietersheim's account counter-thrusts. Height 244, for Coming in the late evening except the Cafe is closed though on to Berg - but, I did not the 86 years of age owner still of the German actions until 21 example, changed hands from the southeast over the recognize one damned thing March 1945, when the division several times. Only late in the Staats - Der Kermeter, I could lives in the building. Then via there - it was and remains just a Juengersdorf to Merode Castele began its withdrawl to the evening this height was brought view from the heights - SCH village - nondescript! Back to MIDT -I could make the view (page 271) which we duplicated North. The paper was written back through theday, heavy, but Nideggen, I turned south and which the German observer had - the prince is now in residence, by the General while a prisoner successful, defensive battles in ventured down the valley of the made so often of our advance I did not disturb him, but of-war at the Generals' camp in the Nied River Valley. Main line Rur River through Abenden, Allendorf. It is presently in the of resistance along the over that rise - in the gorge believe that all will enjoy the which must look now as it did shots of his residence. But, archives of the US Army Office Autobahn, see sketch. In front below lies the lakes formed by 500 years ago (I'll send a photo the dams by Hasenfeld and NOW I'd had enough of 'hunt of Military History - this is but a of the left wing of the Division, of this too) and on past Biens, below Rurberg - before one lies and search' and whistled off, fotocopy. the Buttler Panzerbrigade through Heimbach and then UP an expanse which is well via Dueren Zulpich R.M.A. (Scotty) Hirst stalls the enemy through skillful THAT STEEP ROAD through remembered by all former Euskirchen - Rheinbach - Bad delaying action went of the Nied Hasenfeld, which as recorded in 11 March. Arrangement of NOTORIOUS guys, but made Neuenahr - Koblenz and home. River. the 60th's history, is also im sectors and course of front, see more so by men of the GO One could make a week of 17 - 20 March. On our own pressively stated by Scheibler's sketch. On that day, a DEVIL regiment! Anyway what I tried and accomplished front, only local battles occur work, that on 9 February 1945 Volksartilleriekorps was moved dropping down into the valley I in a day. I have the photos during these days. The main the 60th's second batallion led to the Sector. A thrust by enemy crossed the Schwammenauel which I'll send, Dan after line of resistance remains in by George Company reached tanks to the South drove Dam into Hasenfeld (not really, they're developed. I trust the unopposed through Linz where own hands everywhere. On 20 March, the Division receives as the road comes in just north Hasenfeld at 1600 hours and by membership will enjoy them the engineers of the Rhine of the town) and then swungup, th~ and I trust, if they ever come, Defense had not carried out word that it is to be replaced by 2400 hours had silenced the 340. V.G.D. in order to be the never to be forgotten wind enemy! Any way, Dan, after singly or in numbers to the their blocking mission (they ing incline into Schmidt. I area, they'll drop by and say were an inadequately equipped committed elsewhere. The this stirring visit, I departed, Heeresgruppe expected the immediately made for the back to Heimbach and then up hello to FrauStollenwerkin Sch unit of older personnel which renown 'Schmidter Bauern midt, they'll find the trip most had been committed there main thrust of the enemy over the winding road (all roads here the Sieg River to the North. In stube' of Frau E. Stollenwerk, are winding) past the rewarding. She has a lovely locally for the ferry-traffic). hoping for a room in the inn place and the table is out Artillery activity increased on order to stop this thrust by a Mariawald Monastery, the counter-attack into its flank, all filled - but, this kind lady, who is home of the silent monks, over standing and the area is that both sides along the entire more than well versed in the which is deeply etched with Bridgehead Front. The German available armored forces were Schleiden to Herhahn, where I to be concentrated south of the battle for Schmidt, which she shot the 'heartbreak' cross names which will be remem artillery tried to destroy the experienced as a child, saw to it bered for time immorial with Remagen Bridge by howitzer Sieg River. roads and on to the Ordensburg, The forces of the 340. V.G.D. that I was bedded down in a which is now Camp Vogelsang, the Ninth Division! shelling. This, however, only private room. I returned for a Excuse my rather prompt caused temporary in were too weak, however, to a NATO tank training area, replace the Division even as a sumptous meal at the inn of commanded by Lieutenant departure, Dan, but as I stated terruptions. There were still flounder, downed with tasty it was unforgettable, I'd answer observation posts in own hands mere line of security. The Colonel Victor Neels, a Belgain Mosel wine. Then, was I officer (and the Belgian armed any historic question, would which offered a view of the Buttler Brigade and elements of the-artillery therefore remain in blessed, after a bit of con forces man the training areal. send out any word I could and bridge-site. In spite of heavy versation, with the loan of a would assist any member enemy air activity, enemy their sectors even after the Here I had a mostheart changeover and are subor history written by the former warming welcome (although coming here on the Continent attacks to the East and Nor Mayor of Monschau, Walter for a visit - thanks for listening theast were repelled already by dinated to the 340. V.G. my admission was a bit Division. Scheibler, entitled 'Zwischen reluctant), after they found out and I'll be in touch --- concentrated artillery fire Zwei Fronten' (Between Two Warmest wishes to all. directed from the good ob 21 March. The released who I was and why I came. elements of the Division march, Fronts), which covers the Then too, here I found men Scotty servation posts on the heights of history of the county of Mon the Siebangebirge mountain beginning during the night 20-21 MOST interested in the history March and in echelons during schau during the period 1939 to and I promised them a copy of range. There local counter 1947. I shall try my damndest to thrusts brought minor gains of the following night, to the 'Eight Stars To Victory' - My North, to be committed south of obtain a copy of this outstanding stay was short, but I have a terrain. From Linz, the enemy work, although in the German Veterans who receive a VA made a surprise thrust toward the Sieg River within the standing invitation for a return command of the LXXIV. Korps. tongue, it adds much to the and a conducted tour of the grant for specially adapted the Hargarten Peak. After history of the Ninth. An ex housing are eligible for Mort· heavy, alternating battles In accordance with the initial entire installation - then too evaluation, the following ceptionally intimate work, they showed me the guest bOOK gage Protection Life against the Division's engineers translation of certain passages Insurance. comm itted there, the Peak cunclusions are drawn: with the entry by General The Division was committed would be of the greater interest Westmoreland of 11 May 1971. Those eligible may buy an remained in own hands. to the membership. As I stated amount of insurance equal to Divisional comma nd post: near Remagen only after the With reservation, I parted and American Bridgehead had the work was loaned to me for proceeded SSW to Dreiborn, their outstanding mortgage Guenderscheid, immediately one evening, 462 pages, having balance, or $30,000, whichever west of the Autobahn. already been established. Due does this bring back any to the belated arrival of the bulk to get up at 0500 the following memories? Here. the towns- is the lesser. This decreasing 12 March. Divisional front morning, turning in after a few term amount stops when the generally unchanged. Enemy of the Division (3 days after creation of the Bridgehead) and wines at 2300, who in the world mortgage is paid off, or the artillery and air-activity in would finish - yes, as you might property is disposed of so the creased steadily. The Hudel the relative strengths of the two - - . sides, an elimination of the veteran no longer has a mort Task Force is committed at the gage, or he stops paying the left wing near Dattenberg where Bridgehead was no longer possible. required premiums or he it is to support the engineers of reaches age 70. the Rhine Defense and to By stubborn fighting, however, the Division in its A low-cost premium has been establish definite contact with made possible by the Govern the Rhine. At the 9. Panzer sector prevented the expansion of the Bridgehead, or at least ment paying the administrative Division, the Leyberg Mountain costs, as well as the claims is lost (height 359, 2 km. nor delayed it. Above all, it held the crucial observation posts of the costs which exceed the theast of Rheinbreitbach l. The premium payments. For those reconnaissance battalion of the Siebengebirge mountain range, which dominated the entire receiving compensation 11. Panzer Division which was payments, premiums will be committed at the right wing of Bridgehead, until 13 March. It had thus retained the deducted by VA, otherwise, the the Division on both sides of the veteran pays directly. The road leading from the East prerequisites for a successful counter-attack. The attacking insurance covers not only the towards Rheinbreitbach, is thus first home purchased by the being outflanked and also forces should only have been available which were supposed disabled veteran. but any greatly affected. The new main unused portion may be applied line of resistance now turns into to arrive, but which, as had so often been the case during the to a subsequent purchase after a pure west-front, correspon the first home has been final phase of the War, did not . The LUde.ndor~Bridge at Remagen as seen from the East Bank ding with the summits of the disposed of arrive of the Rhme River.The bridgecollapsed hours after picture was taken. THE OCTOFOIL CHAPTER NEWS The Roger EImers hosted the Mr. & Mrs. Ray Miele and SUBJECT - Morning Report MICHIGAN DOINGS News Notes October meeting at their home their friends, Mrs. Geraldine ORGANIZATION - Service Kleb Stockford has made a in Chicago. After several years Curatola, Mrs. Treacha Battery 9th Infantry Division fine recovery from his recent of illness, Doris Elmer is feeling Franchetti and Mr. & Mrs. Association Un August 25th the Michigan illness and put in an appearance well, making it a double Louis Cedrone ·BIVOUAC - Worcester, Mass. gang held their annual piCRic at at the picnic, Kleb and his wife pleasure to be entertained inher Charles Cheevers won a WEATHER - Clear, Sunny. Bill Meadows' cottage on Little Vi also have something else to home. All the goodies she Raffle Prize. Pale Blue Sky Island Lake. Hosts for the be happy about, they are the provided testified to her return Many of the QM's are plan TEMPERATURE - 62 picnic were Bill and Barb proud grandparents of Jeffery to good health. Plans were ning to a ttend the 1974 DATE - October 20, 1973 Meadows and. Don and Helen Scott born last May. Rick Reedy instituted by Bill Hennemuth ATLANTA REUNION. Lewis. They made everyone suffered a broken arm in a for our annual Christmas party ASADREPORT feel pt home and did a great job motor bike accident. Bob to be on Dec. 8. Bud Redner was It is my unpleasant duty to PRESENT AND AC- of keeping all the plates full and DeSandy was elected Chairman delegated the task of selecting report that METRO JAMES COUNTED FOR - Tom Boyle, seeing to it that the glasses were of the 19'75 National Reunion and securing the hotel for this MISKO passed away on Sep foreman Post Office dept and an never empty. This was no small Committee. He will soon name festive affair. Final details for tember 15, 1973. Our deepest executive in Mass State Dept of achievement because 75 very the committee to serve with him this party will be completed at sympathy to his wife and VFW. Connie Matulius helps to hungry troops were on the chow and their first task will be to the November meeting which family. keep the world famous NOR line. As he has done so often in select the best possible site in will be held at Tadtmans Harry Orenstein TON Co. going. Mike Schrappa the past Gene Reedy provided Michigan for the reunion. Restaurant. 687 West 204 Street, is with the CID at Ft. Mon the picnic with "spirit", he New York, N.Y. 10034 mouth, N.J. delivered the "red-pop" that Dick Wilson is the spark Reunion Report behind the Philadelphia put everyone in a festive mood. Illinois At the Fall meeting Paul Many hands contributed to the Chapter. Donald RoBar is still Clark and Frank Ozart reported teaching music in the Ship success of the picnic, Steve and on the National Reunion. They Mary Gasparovich provided the pensburg, Penn. High School. On a warm summer evening reported that a good time was Lawrence Rogers is a real pop-corn that whetted the last June the Illinois Chapter had at the reunion. The Service Battery 26th troops appetite for Gene's "red estate dealer in Hollywood, got together for a meeting at members welcomed the news ARTILLERY BATTALION Florida and has a farm in pop", Ernie Young kept the Bud Reimer's home in Chicago. that Chapter President Bill TWENTY NINTH ANNUAL Littleton, N.H. on which he gang entertained with the tapes The beautiful weather brought Hennemuth had been elected to MEMORIAL MASS raises shrubs for landscaping. he made at previous reunions out a large number of members the National Board of Gover and bus trips, many members and they put a sizeable dent in nors. Dr. David Heller and John Remember in your prayers brought franks, hamburgers Bud's supply of beverages and Clouser of the Scholarship when you go to church on this Milton Parrott keeps the and roasted corn, and the snacks. During the meeting the Committee commended fellow weatherman contributed a day whether it be in Worcester telephone lines operating in his guys and gals made plans for committee-man Frank Ozart or your home town: native Vermont. Bill Meadows beautiful day. the Fall meeting,they decided to when he reported on the The Chapter supports its Lorey K. Bland, Died, May 29, is an executive with the Detroit start off the season with a collection taken up for the 1971; Lewis Orticari, Died, Dec. Housing Authority. Henry activities by having a yearly family picnic. So a call was Scholarship Fund at the raffle and prizes are drawn at 4, 19'72; Clement LeBlanc, Died, Capella is building fine houses placed to Ted and Wanda reunion. Dec. 25, 1972 in the upper price bracket in the the picnic. This year the ladies Preston to inform them of the Change your records to read: original pilgrim colony. Dan seemed to hold all the lucky Chapter's plan to invade their MRS. KERNER COLLAPSES, cards, Florence DeSandy Charles L. Lowey, 345 So. Mazieka is proud of his skill on country home in September. DIES AT COUNTRY HOME the bowling lanes. Gil Ponokas walked off with the top prize. Mrs. Helena Carmac Kerner Winfield, Kankakee, Illinois, 60901; Louie England, 518 is doing OK in the auto business. The picnic a ttracted some Picnic wife of U.S. Appeals Judge Ott~ Robinson, Danville, Illinois, Jim Hennely is the computor members who haven't been On Sunday, September 9th, G. Kerner, collapsed and died in around for awhile, among them 61832; Jess Hill Rt. 3 - Box 152. expert in the Boston Postal the Illinois contingent, armed their Lake Geneva, Wis. home. district. John Babbitt has a were Ed and Beverly Dobias Mrs. Kerner had been ill for Brownwood, Texas 76801 with picnic baskets, ice chests (former tent city man): slight health problem which from Lansing, George and more than a year. Judge and maps proceeded northward Richard M. Hill 9789 Audelia necessita(es visits to Arizona. Simone Bartley from Monroe across the state line to the Kerner, former Governor of and Ed and Margaret Dallas. Texas (Apt. 265), 75238 He is still able to carryon a Preston home in Walworth, Illionois, was the Executive lucrative plumbing business. Wisniewski from Richmond. Wisc. The clear country air soon Officer of the 14th Field Jim Bruner has been taking it brought new life to the old gang Artillery Battalion. Those who wasy since his operation but he and it wasn't long before they attended the 1963 reunion in What happened during the Elmer Roscoe IS very bUSy apparently has made a good showed off their athletic Springfield will well remember past year'? selling real estate and in recovery because he was seen prowess by engaging in a the Kerners. The Ladies of the John Cattle, a friend and surance in Storrs Conn. when at the picnic having ,a great spirited game of volley-ball. 9th were especially delighted neighbor of Everett Grigsby not in bivouac. Joe McKenzie time. Unfortunately Bob Winkelman with the lovely tea hosted by the was in Worcester last year. still carrying on for Uncle Sam Activities at the picnic were the star volley-ball player of the First Lady in the Governor's Everett is doing very well ac in the Post Office Dept. Bill concluded with a very moving Illinois Chapter had to remain Mansion. cording to John. Pergi and Bongiorno still talking Retreat Ceremony that was on the sideline. He recently Our sympathy and kind Roscoe acquired daughters-in retirement but still working held at a flagpole on the underwent surgery on his ,thoughts are extended to Judge law last year. Joe Albanese, Bill with his sister in a profitable property of Bob Roberts a shoulder and will be in Kerner Bongiorno, Bernard Campbell dry cleaning business. Joe neighbor of Bill Meadows at capacitated for some time. Bob (Hdqtrs 26F A) and myself Albanese in civic and fraternal Little Island Lake. Bob had the kept himself busy taking pic attended the funeral of Lew affairs when he has free time flagpole erected especially for tures of the other fellows in Orticari. Pergi had an en from his duties at the VA the ceremony. The chapter action. This visit to the joyable trip to Bermuda. facility in White River Junction. presented this "Good Neigh Preston's reminded many of the Anthony Ponticello had the Red Truscello is a body and bor" with a flag in memory of Chapter's "Old Timers" of the mumps. The mother of Jim fender man with a chevy the 4581 men of the 9th Infantry days long ago when all the NEW YORK CHAPTER Hammon died. Joe Albanese agency. John Murray is still Division who gave their lives for Chapter's meeting were held at broke his right ankle this past servic and selling Old their country. the Preston home in Chicago. June and was out of work for smobiles. Pergi, when you want After a day filled with good As usual the NEW YORK over two months. Walter to build something big call food, good drink, and great CHAPTER was well Swenson, John Murray, Red Pergi. represented at Worcester. The Truscello, Bill Bongiorno, Fr. Outstate Meeting companionship the members reluctantly left the lovely N.Y. Chapter chartered a bus Connors and myself visited the HETREAT - :LOOp.m. Fred Josey and Maurice and many other members from funeral home to pay our last Mitchell reconnoitered western setting and great hospitality of Ted and Wanda Preston..They the N.Y. Chapter came by other respects to Frenchy LeBlanc. Michigan looking for a site for means of transportation. The the Chapter's 3rd Annual were filled with a sense of well LOOKING FOR being for having shared a trip to Worcester and return to ASSISTANCE Outstate Meeting. They found N.Y. seemed shorter because beautiful day with other 9th The Griffin family reports all is I am undertaking a project of the ideal spot at the Holiday Inn everyone was having a good Division families. well. Bill Sacco was on crutches collecting the World War II South in Grand Rapids. While time. for two months. A fractured division patches and also the looking over the facilities at the Our special thanks to Walter ankle was his trouble. Ross Division Commanders name Inn Bob and Maurice met some O'Keeffe who did an out Kepple keeps in touch. He spent and would like to know his rank. of the "Old Reliables" who standing job in making New Officers an\)ther five years in the army Any contribution toward this reside in the Grand Rapidsare a arrangements for chartering The men elected to office in after we parted company. Bill project will be greatly ap among them were the Earl the bus and reservations at the the Illinois Chapter for the Bongiorno did go to Oregon. preciated. Hyde's, John and Betty Maule lovely Sheraton Lincoln Inn. coming year are: President, Enjoyed every minute of his I am a former member of the and Bill Andrews. They all Pat Morano won a raffle Bill Hennemuth; Secretary, three week trip. On his way 96th Infantry Division, that was agreed that Grand Rapids prize. would be the perfect place to Bob Winkelman; Treasurer, home he stopped off in Detroit on the West Coast during hold the Outstate Meeting. Chuck Koskie; Chaplain, Bud to see Bill Meadows. Philip training, then was sent to Leyte When the gang gets together Reimer. Mike Belmonte will Huber, son of our Harold, is an and Okinawa. We were ac QM NOTES: in Grand Rapids they are going continue to serve on the account manager for E.D. tivated in 1942 and deactivated The following QM's were to have a ball. Fred and National Board of Governors. Hutton (stock brokers) in in 1946. present at WORCESTER: Maurice have come up with a The month of October offered Cleveland. If you have any If I can be of help in locating Mr. Charles Cheever terrific program for the two occasions for the members money to invest, Philip is the former members in your outfit, Mr. & Mrs. John H. Jagling evening. There will be a to socialize. Carolyn Koskie, man to see. His sister please let me know_ We hold our Mr. & Mrs. John Moran cocktail hour from 7 till 8 after daughter of Chuck and Irma (Christine) is following the reunions every year in July, at Mr. & Mrs. Harry Orenstein this the following dinner will be was married on October 13. This footsteps of their mother trying cities suggested by the mem Mr. & Mrs. Joe Russo served, Fruits of the Season, was a beautiful wed to make better youngsters in the bers. If you are unable to help Mr. John Francis. his sister Tossed Green Salad BowL ding, complete with dinner and Olean school system. me with this, would you please Grace, and his nephew Carl Creamed Cottage Cheese and dancing in a lovely setting. The We had a good convention in send me names and addresses Zorn. Fruit Mold, Wide Selection of past 12 months, the Eskies have Boston this past summer. Sorry of someone who might be able to Mr. & Mrs. Trevor Jones and Salads Silver Trays With had both daughters marry and you missed it. do so. Enclosed find a self ad their friends. Mr. & Mrs. Bill Assortment of Cheeses. Iced Chuck and Irma celebrated 19'74 Have AAA or ALA plan dressed, stamped envelope. Bruno Helish Trays. Roast Tenderloin their 25th wedding anniversary. your trip to ATLANTA 1974. - Frank Matheny of Beef. Bread and Rolls. Chuck has now sworn off ruffled formerly Assorted Pastries and Cakes shirts till their 50th an Co. A. 381st Infantry and Beverages. The gang from niversary. 96th Division :\Iichigan sure knows how to live high on the hog. Frank Matheny 14 lellill II 1lIIIIa RR 2 Box 194 Decatur, Ill. 62521 REU NION HI·LITES
The Boston Reunion Committee members and "their better The Engineers were well represented at the Boston Reunion. halfs" enjoying a moment of relaxation at the Friday night Here's a happy group shown with their wives. dance.
The gang from the Q.M. are telling the ladies how they took care of "little watermelons" like the one shown on their table. The old 2nd .Dn 47th was never like this - Doc Rischel, Chuck Jones, Bob DeSany and their wives are "chowing it up" at a real New England Clam bake.
Ron Murphy wore many hats this pastyear - he was President of The young at heart are still in there pitching. The Hockettes the Association and Chairman of the Reunion and here he is have nothing on this group doing the "Alley Cat". shown helping on the Chow line at the Clam bake. "! .,-... ~_T '9 T v :._: Ii 10 J. CLCUSER ~) i] 1 G R J\ eEL A r J DST f~ E E T THE OCTOFOIL L' E. S F L l\ I ILLI;;OIS 60016
THEOCTOFOIL :~9th Man A Winner 412 Gregory Ave Weehawken, N. J. 07087
Most "Old Reliables" after Sec:ond·Cl_ Postege paid at Union City. N. J. Authoriled as of October '. 1967. spending many uncomfortable hours aboard Higgins boats on the Chesapeake Bay and off the For the Editors of the "Octofoil" the most rewarding part of coasts of Africa vowed that our job is being able to read the letters received from members never again would they set a of the Association. Many of our members have never been able foot in a small boat. Lazar Kay, Upon a motion duly made by to attend a National Reunion and most of them do not have a a former member of F Co 39th Richard Wilson and seconded local chapter in their area. The only contact these fellows have Inf, is the exception. He races Doar~ by Nick Palega it was voted to: with the Association and their old buddies is through the motorboats. A recent issue of Grant the New England "Octofoil". Despite the fact that they can't take an active part in the "Inter-Yacht Club News" Chapter a gratuity of $100.00, the affairs of the Association these men are numbered among published in Cleveland, Ohio for a job well done. the most loyal and devoted members of the Ninth Infantry featured the following story. Meeting Daniel Quinn reported on the Division Association. In their letters they invariably mention Sweeps Offshore Marathon 1974 Atlanta, Georgia reunion to the fact that they take great pride in being an "Old Reliable". Clevelander Sonny Kay and be held on August 1, 2, and 3. They faithfully pay their dues and many are regular .con co-driver Tom Kipp piloted the Details will appear in the Octo Minutes of tributors to the Scholarship Fund. Whenever they spot an Ite~ 36-foot Aeromarine II racer the 1l0th Meeting foil, such as rates etc. National Board of Governors that may be of interest to the Association they immediately alert across Lake Erie's choppy Upon a motion duly made by Ninth Infantry Division Oscar Richards and seconded us and often send in clippings that subsequently appear in the waters to sweep the Mentor Association "Octofoil". These men eagerly await each new issue of the Offshore Marathon at a record by Michael Deresh it was voted paper hoping to spot a familiar name or face. Unfortunately we speed of 63.79 MPH, nearly 11 to accept the Atlanta Report. l-.:lVn no"pr met !'nq~v f)f th~s~ 1""31 memho.." ~"!~ k!H"N thol1'" MPH f."lster than last year's Upon a motion made by T~l:: : j_C~~· l~d.~'"\:'Liug 0; ~.:~e ~~ly thro'~gh their letters to the vctofoil and the NatIOnal record. W111lam jjuil~ .V;11O and National Board of Governors Secretary. Nevertheless we feel as close to them as we do to the It was the first outing for Kay seconded by Edward McGrath was held on October 20, 1973 at fellows that we meet several times a year. and his newly acquired Ber to vote for or against the 5: 10 P.M., at the Sheraton tram-Memco "thunderboat" following proposal: Hereby Mail Call is one way of keeping in touch with our members Lincoln Motel, Worcester, powered by a pair of 600 H.P. propose that the by-laws of the who can't attend the reunions or chapter meetings so we hope Massachusetts attended by Kiekhaefer Aeromarine organization be amended to that all our members will continue to keep us posted on what's Messrs: Fred Josey, Edward lett~rs th~ engines. He wwon the race by provide, in general, that certain going on so that we can publish their in "Octofoil". McGrath, Oscar Richards. Following are some letters that we receIved durmg the past more than 20 minutes over monies currently carried in the Richard Wilson, William Klauz, Association's Capital Fund and month. second place finisher David Nick Palega, Michael Deresh Flynn and his 36 foot Cigarette or invested funds be used each and William Bongiorno. Also in Aeromarine I. Flynn was year at the reunion to defray the a ttendance were Judge picked by many as the pre-race expenses of significant ac Wallace B. Hawkins Advocate Harrison Daysh, 2nd Med. Detachment Joseph J. Pizzi favorite. tivities or programs so as to Vice-President Thomas Shine. 3rd Bn 60th Inf Co. G 60th Inf. reduce the cost of such affairs to Only 9 of the 26 starters ac 3rd Vice-President Fancis 318 13th Ave 525 Empire Blvd. tually finished the race as Lake the members therein at Bklyn, N.Y. 11225 Maher and Treasurer Thomas tendance: except that the Hattiesburg, Miss 39401 Erie was being whipped up to 4 Boyle. Past Presidents in at Joe is with the Department of furnishing of such sums out of I served with the Medical foot seas by gusty northwest tendance were Walter O'Keeffe, The Army at their Eastern Area winds. these sources shall not exceed Detachment 3rd Bn 60th John Bonkowski, Leonard Infantry. Joined the 9th in Headquarters; recently while The victory for Sonny Kay $2,000.00 in anyone year. Tomassone and Ronald Mur A motion made by Michael October 1942 at Ft. Bragg. I saw reading the "Civilian Personnel establishes his Aeromarine II phy. Management Newsletter" he Deresh and seconded by Nick action in Africa, Sicily, Nor as a strong contender for this The secretary then read the came across the following item Palega to table the motion was mandy, France, Belgium and year's Great Lakes regional minutes of the 109th meeting which should be of interest to all defeated. Germany was captured and was offshore championship. He and upon a motion duly made by former Ninth Division men. Upon a motion made by a POW for six months. While a undoubtedly will be the favorite William Klauz and seconded by Fort Lewis Civilians William Bongiorno and prisoner I went through Poland, going into the next race on the William Bongiorno it was voted Russia, Italy and then finally Are Reliable Too' Lake Erie circuit on June 30th. seconded by Edward McGrath to: Accept the reading of the it was voted four against three back to the States. I would like Name tags and distinctive minutes and instruct the to hear from some of my bud unit insignia have long been to: Favor this proposal. The secretary to place same on file. final action will take place at dies for the Med. Detachment used in the Army to identify the Thomas Boyle the treasurer 60th Inf. especially Walter J. soldier and his unit and, more M Co. 60th Inf. the Atlanta Reunion by the then gave the members a general mem bership, Murphy who came from New importantly, to instill pride in FROM PUP TENT quarterly report of the spondin,o, nH l<'''~' F IdllL1~ l\1c.ti1~1 ~lJOke LO Lhe York City, I will make the 1.974 the solrlier for hi,;;; lI .\ t t'O MANSI,,;, and income and upon a motion members relating to the reunion 'if I am well. I have Lewis, Wasnington, the wearing Carl K. Brady is one of the duly made by Oscar Richards Worcester Memorial. A plaque never attended a 9th Division of name plates with the unit few people we know who can and seconded by William Klauz to be presented to the reunion and I know I have insignia upon them has become make a living while sitting in his it was voted to: Accept the parishioners of Father Connors missed having a good time. a common occurrence among own living room. He owns and Treasurers report. Church for the hospitality civilian employees, and is part lives in the famous "Moongate Ronald Murphy Chairman of shown to members of the Ninth Bernard English of a program to create greater House" in Mobile, Ala. His the 1973 Boston Reunion gave Co I 47th Inf. civilian identification with the throughout the years. One of the home is a stately mansion built the final report on the reunion members present donated this 15017 41st Ave. professional Army of today. by an early Mayor of Mobile. and turned over a check of Flushing, N.Y. 11354 This program was initiated by plaque but wishes to remain The mansion is well known for $402.94 the profit realized from anonymous. Sending in my dues. I retired MG William B. Fulton, com its beauty and has been the reunion. He also presented from the Post Office last May mander of the "Old Reliable" Upon a motion duly made by photographed and documented the President with a check of Bill Klauz and seconded by and got myself a job as a Ninth Infantry Division which by the Historic American $341.05. This money was messenger for a bank in New was recently reactivated at Richard Wilson it was voted to: Building Survey, it is recorded donated by the members at the Help defray the cost of the York. Feeling pretty good but Fort Lewis. The Ninth Division . in the Library of Congress and night of the banquet for the couldn't make the reunion in is one of the first all-volunteer marching band for the Wor in the Nation Register of scholarship fund. cester Memorial in the amount Boston this year. Divisions and is composed Historical places worthy of President Fred Josey asked completely of soldiers who of $103.00. preservation. It is open to the the members for a standing There being no other business E Papa enlisted under the Army's "Unit public every day of the year vote of thanks to the New Co M 60th Inf. of Choice" program. to come before the Board and from 9 to 9 and the price of England Chapter members for upon a motion duly made by 41 Cherry St. MG Fulton embarked on a admission is $2.00 for adults and a well run reunion. Upon a Glens Fall, N.Y. 12801 program to introduce his Edward McGrath and seconded $1.00 for children. motion made by William Klauz by Bill Bongiorno it was voted LET'S HEAR FROM SOME civilian work force to the new The mansion gets its name division and emphasized the and seconded by Richard to: Adjoin at 7:10 P.M. OF THE PEOPLE FROM CO M from the intricate ironlace important support role of Wilson it was voted to accept Respectfully submitted, 60TH INFANTRY! ! ! Moongate that stands in the old the reunion report. civilians through a series of all Daniel Quinn brick courtyard flanked by hands meetings with the National Secretary Max Ulmansky century old chimney pieces. customer relations training. As Co M 47th Inf. The interior of the house con a unique feature, MG Fulton 101 Berkeley Rd. Apt 211 tains a fine collection of authorized the production and Hollywood, Fla. 33024 European and American an RESERVATIONS FOR ROOMS distribution of a name plate Retired from the Post Office tiques, colorful Persian and ATLANTA REUNION specially designed by Civilian and have forsaken New York Oriental rugs, unusual Italian NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION WW'L. Personnel officials which could for the sunny skies of Florida. porcelain and French crystal send to be worn by civilian employees. Having some problems getting chandeliers, hand carved The name plates, bearing the SHERATON-BILTMORE settled. Our furniture arrived ceiling medallions, original crests of the Sixth U.S. Army WEST PEACHTREE STREET three weeks after we did and bronze sculptures, lovely two pieces are still missing. Still and the Ninth Infantry Division, ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30383 contain a civilianized version of Valencial laces and Carrara working hard trying to get the and Sicilian marble mantels. 'new home fixed up. Sorry I the Division's "Old Reliable" THE SHERATON-BILTMORE HOTEL COLOR TELEVISION motto which reads, "We're "Moongate" is one of Mobile's (404) 875-3461 ALL ROOMS AIR CONDITIONED can't make Worcester this year most famous attractions and is but will try to make it next year. reliable too." located at 407 Conti St. ARRIVAL NIGHTS Regards to all the boys. Civilian employees at Fort Carl is real proud of his home Co. D 47th Inf Lewis have reacted favorably to and would be happy to show it Name Edward Slosson Jr. the name plates and many off to his friends from the Ninth. 63 Sherwood Place employees either wear them or He tells us that he hopes to meet Address Greenwich, Conn. 06830 have attached them to handy some of them at the next I was in the Greenwich spots on their desks or equi~ reunion. City State Phone. Hospital in 71 with another ment. Officials at Fort LeWIS spinal fussion this time af view the over-all ,program to If Double Accompanied By fecting my left leg so I had a bad emphasize the civilian support time walking. role as a significant step toward Today I have a hard time on insuring the success of the August 1-4, 1974 volunteer Army system. This country has made such steps and stairs but can't ride in social and economic strides that cars over a half hour. At least I most families manage to have Rates: $20.00 single $26.00 twin or double can walk, that is all I ask. all the comforts of home except Ecnlosing my dues for next money. FREE PARKING three years and best wishes to the "old gang".