EX-POW BULLETIN the official voice of the American Ex-Prisoners of War Volume 68 www .axpo w .or g Number 9/10

September/October 2011

We exist to help those who cannot help themselves

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table of contents September/October 2011 officers/directors 4 POW/MIA Recognition Day... commander/HQ 5 outreach/success 7 Friday, September 16, 2011 NSO 8 medsearch 9 The United States’ National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed andersonville 13 across the nation on the third Friday of September each year. Many namPOW 14 Americans take the time to remember those who were prisoners of pow-mia 15 war (POW) and those who are missing in action (MIA), as well as their civilian 16 families. events, info, looking for 18 news 19 Background members’ forum 25 There are 1,741 American personnel listed by the Defense Department’s your stories 27 POW/MIA Office as missing and unaccounted for from the Vietnam voluntary funding 29 War, as of April 2009. The number of United States personnel accounted applications 30 for since the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 is 841. About 90 percent contributions 31 of the 1,741 people still missing were lost in Vietnam or areas of Laos new members 32 and Cambodia under Vietnam’s wartime control, according to the Na- taps 33 tional League of Families website (cited in the United States Army raffle/Ads 39 website). quartermaster 41 What do people do? Many Americans across the United States pause to remember the sac- rifices and service of those who were prisoners of war (POW), as well as those who are missing in action (MIA), and their families. All mili- tary installations fly the National League of Families’ POW/MIA flag, Publisher which symbolizes the nation’s remembrance of those who were im- PNC Maurice Sharp prisoned while serving in conflicts and those who remain missing. 9716 54th Street CT West University Place, WA 98467-1118 (253) 565-0444 Veteran rallies take place in many states, such as Wisconsin, in the [email protected] United States on National POW/MIA Recognition Day. United States flags and POW/MIA flags are flown on this day and joint prayers are Editor made for POWs and those missing in action. National POW/MIA Rec- Cheryl Cerbone ognition Day posters are also displayed at college or university cam- 23 Cove View Drive puses and public buildings to promote the day. Remembrance cer- South Yarmouth, MA 02664 emonies and other events to observe the day are also held in places (508) 394-5250 such as the Pentagon, war memorials and museums. (508) 760-2008 fax [email protected] National POW/MIA Recognition Day is not a federal public holiday in the United States but it is a national observance. Deadline for the Nov/Dec 2011 issue is Oct 1, 2011.

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EX-POW Bulletin (ISSN 0161-7451) is published bi-monthly (six times annually) by the American Ex-Prisoners of War, 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Arlington, TX 76010. Periodical postage paid at Arlington, TX and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: send address changes to EX-POW Bulletin, AXPOW Headquarters, 3201 E. Pioneer Pkwy. Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010-5396. Founded April 14, 1942, in Albuquerque, NM, then known as Bataan Relief Organization, Washington State non- profit corporation, “American Ex-Prisoners of War”, October 11, 1949, recorded as Document No. 133762, Roll 1, Page 386-392. NONPROFIT CORPORATION. Nationally Chartered August 10, 1982. Appearance in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the American Ex-Prisoners of War of the product or service advertised. The publisher reserves the right to decline or discontinue any such advertisement. © 2011 American Ex-Prisoners of War

Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2011 3 axpow officers & directors 2010-2011 National Headquarters - Clydie J. Morgan, Adjutant/Treasurer 3201 E. Pioneer Pkwy, #40, Arlington, TX 76010 (817) 649-2979 (817) 649-0109 fax [email protected] Officers North East Region Directors Mid-Central Region Franklin R. Koehler National Commander Cordine McMurray 243 Torrey Pines Dr. 18940 Hamburg Morris Barker Toms River, NJ 08757 Detroit MI 48205 710 Chapel View (732) 244-4629; (732) 505-8702 fax (313) 371-0592; (313) 506-6680 cell Waco, TX 76712 [email protected] [email protected] (254) 732-5640 [email protected] Laura McIntyre Deanie Schmidt PO Box 475 1001 Parkview Blvd. #316 National Sr Vice Commander Hardwick, MA 01037 Columbus, OH 43219 Carroll Bogard, Ph.D (413) 477-8260 (413) 477-0172 fax (614) 372-0788 275 N Taft #116 [email protected] [email protected] Mason City IA 50401 (641) 424-4870 – Voice East Central Region South Central Region (641) 512-4543 - Cell Judy Lee PNC Jim Clark PO Box 248 214 Oakdale National Judge Advocate Madisonville, TN 37354 Bastrop, LA 71220-2330 David Drummond (423) 442-3223; (423) 442-4702 fax (318) 281-5505 phone & fax 1 Crane Court [email protected] [email protected] Manalapan, NJ 07726 Paul E. Galanti (732) 446-4198 Pam Warner Eslinger 21 Maxwell Road [email protected] PO Box 117 Richmond, VA 23226 Hammon, OK 73650 (804)389-1668 (580) 473-2783 National Chaplain [email protected] [email protected] PNC Gerald Harvey 709 Baptist Home Lane Southeast Region Northwest Region Chillocothe MO 64601 Wm “Bill” Jeffers Bonnie Sharp 660-646-4301 3522 Millbrook way Cr 9716 54th Street CT West Greenacres, FL 33463 University Place, WA 98467-1118 Jr. Vice Commanders (561) 969-6036 (253) 565-0444 Charles Susino - [email protected] [email protected] Eastern Zone 136 Jefferson Street North Central Region Southwest Region Metuchen, NJ 08840 John W Clark Alice Gollin (732) 549-5775 phone & fax 1201 S Johnmeyer Ln 3650 Savanna Way Columbia MO 65203 Palm Springs CA 92262 James L. Lollar - (573) 445-3621 (760) 202-1329 – Voice Central Zone [email protected] [email protected] 292 VZ CR 3727 Wills Point, TX 75169 David Claypool Lewis “Lew” Sleeper (903) 560-1734; (903) 560-1705 fax PO Box 38 6636 E Villa Dorado [email protected] Hampton MN 55031 Tucson, AZ 85715 (612) 245-2247 (520) 751-9628 Voice Milton “Skip” Moore - [email protected] (520) 490-1082 Cell Western Zone [email protected] 2965 Sierra Bermeja Sierra Vista, AZ 85650 (520) 459-7295; (520) 533-3757 fax [email protected] Senior Director PNC Kenny H Hanson 9401 Lyndale Ave S #228 Bloomington MN 55420 Committee addresses appear (952) 888-2703 – Voice with their columns [email protected] Senior Vice Commander as our Na- gram is the main thrust and the tional Commander, 2011-12. reason for our existence. In discuss- Carroll, of Mason City, IA, is very ing this fact with the NSOs who re- active in, and will be a valuable as- spond to POW needs on a national set to the AXPOW organization. I basis, it was determined that their also want to thank the membership request for advice and counsel has for your cooperation, and the op- been reduced somewhat due to the portunity and privilege to serve the fact that many needs of the POW organization this past year. have been met, and they foresee further reduction for their assis- Realizing that to list is to limit, I tance in the future however, there would be derelict in my duties by is still work to be done. The primary not recognizing and thanking all request for NSO services at this National Commander who are serving on various commit- time is for Aid and Attendance and Morris Barker tees, giving special recognition to DIC. However, this changes when those in the process of looking to- legislation warrants it, such as the At the beginning of a new organi- ward the future of the organization three new presumptive conditions zational assignment or responsibil- due to changing status of member- associated with Agent Orange and ity, it is wise to set goals, or adopt ship and need. A special thanks to ischemic heart conditions from those directed by the Board that NSOs and HQ personnel, represent- which the VA has received 200,000 you are expected to accomplish ing the organization for their assis- applications. The legacy of our or- during your term in office. When tance to members of our group, ganization must be kept alive, and your term is completed you tend to especially during the time of chang- I feel the NOK program currently reflect on, or revisit these goals to ing legislation and needs of the in- being considered coupled with fu- determine your success in meeting dividual. At this time, the organi- ture needs, will be a positive factor them. I’m sure this goal setting pro- zation is progressing financially, in the longevity of the organization. cedures were followed by all 61 partially due to contributions to the Having said this, I want to make it past AXPOW National Commanders Life Membership Supplement and, clear that I’m not suggesting any from our first, Virgil McCollum Volunteer Funding Programs for immediate change in the AXPOW (1948-49), to the present, in order which the entire membership is to organizational structure, but do to do what is considered best for be commended. I also want to give recommend that when it has been the organization. It is important recognition to the entire AXPOW determined that our obligation and that goals be established so that Officers and Board of Directors who assistance to the POW has been fi- accomplishments can be evaluated. made the decision this year to forgo nalized, that we have proper clo- their allowance budget for the ben- sure plans. This year, in addition to maintain- efit of the organization, which is a ing our current revenue programs, sacrifice in many instances. National Convention….The conven- which is essential, the major goal tion is underway as you read this. (2010-2011) set by the Board was I often get this question, as I’m sure At the time of writing, we are expe- to reduce costs of operation. Sev- you do also……..“How much longer riencing slow registration, but ex- eral means were considered in can the AXPOW organization sur- pect it to increase as we approach meeting this goal which was final- vive”. My standard answer is, “as convention time. Our attendance is ized by eliminating, reducing or long as we have POWs and depen- expected to be a little below aver- combining programs and staff re- dents with needs, to whom we can age this year since the date for our sponsibilities, where expedient. be of service”. The guesstimate at convention conflicts with POW/MIA These steps by the Board, proved the National Convention each year Day sponsored by Andersonville, successful in that cost of operation is usually five (2-5) years, a num- aided by the Rolling Thunder. The was reduced by approximately ber that doesn’t seem to reduce 2012 convention will be in Arling- $75,000 annually. In addition, the year after year because of contin- ton, TX, which should show a Board directed that we establish a ued need. However, since this ques- marked increase in attendance Life Membership Supplement Pro- tion keeps surfacing and, since the when conflicts can be avoided when gram, which has been successful. I dynamics of the membership the National Convention will be want to thank the Board and mem- changes in regard to age, and fu- held during the summer months. bership for their insight in this re- ture need, this is a subject that gard to insure continued operation must be given thought and prepa- of the organization as long as the ration in the future. There are many Ex-POW Bulletin need is present. We are fortunate factors involved in a decision of this Sept/Oct 2011 to have Carroll Bogard, PhD, current type. For instance, the NSO pro- 5 troops from 21 other nations. Vet- commander continued... erans who were involved in the Ko- news Korean POWs……..June 27 marked rean War are heroes, remembered the 60th anniversary of the begin- by the term, “All gave some, some from ning of the Korean War. Veteran gave all”. There were 136 recipients organizations throughout the U.S. of the “Medal of Honor” of which held special meetings honoring 13 are still living, 8000 earned the hq those veterans who were involved “Silver Star”, the 2nd highest Medal in the Korean War, giving special awarded for bravery in combat. recognition to those who in the heat of battle were captured and became IRS Audit…….The IRS will perform Whew, a year sure goes by fast! It’s POWs during this time. I was privi- an audit of the AXPOW organiza- convention time already. Dayton is leged to be asked to speak at a lo- tion on August 23, 2011 for the a great place for us. cal VFW meeting where POWs were year ending August 31, 2008. A honored and recognized. Texas complete report from IRS will be It’s time for annual members to get alone has 38 former POWs who are published when completed., their dues in. You will be receiving members of the AXPOW organiza- a notice in the mail soon. Thanks tion. Former POWs of the Korean for renewing. 501(c)19…The application for War honored at the meeting in- 501(c)19 status is still pending with clude, Jack Goodwin, Julian Ramon, We are phasing out our IRS. Isaac Martinez and Abraham merchandise. Once an item is gone Hernandez. I also want to recognize we will not be ordering again. We and honor all members of the See you in Dayton....and again, it still have a pretty good inventory AXPOW organization who were has been my honor to have served but be sure not to wait too long to Prisoners during the Korean con- the organization. order. flict. The Republic of Korea to the south owes its freedom and pros- “From our greatest suffering comes When you order merchandise or perity primarily to the armed forces our greatest strength” send in a donation, please of the United States assisted by Morris remember to make your check out to AXPOW or American Ex- Prisoners of War. Our new bank won’t accept anything else and we will have to return your check.

All checks must be made out like this, even MedSearch. Thanks for helping out.

We received a letter from IRS in August, 2011. They informed us that we were being audited. It was a random, routine audit to see if we were complying with our non-profit status. We passed! I haven’t received the formal letter yet, but we will let you know when we do. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank From PND Vince Pale… Sonnie Mottern for the records We had services and a dedication being in good shape. It made it on Memorial Day for our much easier to organize them for monument.The black GI cut out is the auditor. Thanks, GB! 4’x6' and I made one for each of the veterans organizations in Take care, Cape May County. It kept me busy so I wasn’t running after Marge. Clydie, along with Ex-POW Bulletin Marsha, Sally & Donna Sept/Oct 2011 6 vice-connected claim effective Nov. service officer, Paul Dallas in VA Outreach 1, 2009 since had eligible-type leu- Fayetteville, NC.” kemia under Agent Orange rules. S*O*O*N THEN, after husband dies on Dec. 22, June 28, 2011, John to Cheryl: “Be- 2009, Annie’s DIC claim is approved cause of your help my mom, June B Before it’s too late for her by Atlanta VARO, and Annie was awarded DIC. Mom received her puts in claim for benefits for her 40- first check June 1. In less than a week year-old daughter (needing care from after talking with you, Mr. Paul Dal- birth) and now suffering with cancer. las got on board. Paul was so easy to That claim went to the Philadelphia work with. He walked mom through VA, and not only didd they deny the the process and in less than two daughter’s claim, but also revoked months, she got her notice. I can Annie’s DIC on March 25, 2011, say- never thank you enough for your ing that kind of leukemia did not help. You are truly a wonderful and qualify under Agent Orange rules. great person. Thank you, John”

May 13, 2011, Cheryl calls Don Lewis, Cheryl, “John, the wonderful person NSO Fred Campbell, Chairman NSO in Philadelphia area, and asks is Paul Dallas. He knows how to get 3312 Chatterton Dr. Don, who has worked much with the help for our widows. I just know the San Angelo, TX 76904 VA there, to help. She gives Don an- people to call. I am so pleased for 325-944-4002; [email protected] other resource to call, Chuck Had- your mother. I love success sstories! dock in Washington DC VA. Don goes Best, Cheryl” It pays to reach out to work on his contacts in Philadel- Help is Here! phia and Washington. A success story? You know it. Ken B died in 1981 and now after thirty Sept. 30, 1999. An important date for Result, in Annie’s words to Cheryl years, Mrs. B will be getting her some! Before that date, if a former early July, 2011: “It looks like your widow’s VA compensation, $1,154 a POW died NOT having had VA’s 100% man Don Lewis has been successful month, plus ChampVA, the free disability rating for at least ten years, in helping me win my case. I have Medicare supplement that covers his widow was denied the Depen- heard from the VA that my doctors, hospitals and free prescrip- dency & Indemnity Compensation daughter’s claim was granted and the tion medications by mail, after Medi- widow’s benefit, unless his was a ser- money came right away from Uncle care pays. vice-connected death. A former POW Sam. It’s a miracle! Don says that this dying AFTER that date had to have means that the revocation of my DIC John follows with another note on 100% rating for just ONE YEAR. On has been overturned! I talked to him July 12. “I want all to know how Oct. 1, 2011, that ten year restriction today and he is very modest about wonderful Cheryl Cerbone and Paul is gone. Then the ONE YEAR RULE his importance in the appeal. He is Dallas are. They are true American will apply to all. Do you know of my hero. Thank you for contacting patriots. I can never thank them someone you need to tell this good him for me. Before Tom Carpenter enough. You will never know how news to? (Do not end a sentence with contacted you, I was at a total loss, much this has changed my mother’s a preposition, my English teacher and now can look forward and have outlook. We would not have known said, but it works here.) help for Christina with her health about DIC if it weren’t for the EX-POW issues. Keep up your good work. Bulletin and you and Paul. Paul American Ex-Prisoners of War has a Gratefully, Annie” helped her fill out ChampVA paper great slogan: We exist to help those over the weekend. He has a lot of who cannot help themselves. There Good work Cheryl and Don, who says patience. I am not a member. I will is nothing demeaning about needing Chuck Haddock packs a lot of power! have to look into correcting this. help at times. And that can certainly Thanks, John B” happen when dealing with a large AND THERE’S MORE! John writes to organization like the Department of Cheryl about his mother in North And here’s another super NSO Veterans Affairs. Carolina. His father Ken B., POW in Katherine “Kay” Arnold of Acton, MA Germany in WWII. “Would my mother and volunteer at Bedford MA Edith That is where our trained AXPOW ad- possibly have VA benefits? She will Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans vocates come in. Our National Ser- be 86 in February and only has so- Hospital. Volunteer for just 52 years, vice Officers can, and do, help. Like cial security income. Is there some- as of July 1, 2011, 46,000 hours; Na- this: one near her home in NC I could con- tional Volunteer of the year, 2001 tact?” Cheryl, “What was cause of Cheryl Cerbone, NSO in Massachu- death?” John, “Heart attack is what setts, gets message perplexed Annie killed him in 1981.” Cheryl, “John, Ex-POW Bulletin in Georgia. She has had her DIC re- I’m sending this email to our Past Sept/Oct 2011 voked. The Atlanta VA Regional Of- National Commander and excellent fice had approved her husband’s ser- 7 nied her in Jan. 2004. Rudy is trying, outreach, cont’d... but VA denial is appropriate unless nso a “clear and unmistakable error” can be shown in the earlier VA decision. (out of 1,000,000 volunteers). Kay Now they await verdict of a pending still has time for claims. appeal. The son thinks the VA should have contacted his mother so she C.P. contacts Kay Arnold 8 years ago; would have gotten DIC before 1008. she had put in VA claim in 1999 af- The VA did reach out in a special ef- ter her 100% Ex-POW husband passed fort to find former POWs in late 2004 away, but she was denied since there and 2005, but outreach to widows was no service-connected presump- was not possible. Thanks, Rudy, for tive on death certificate. Kay says, “I keeping on trying to help those who started on case with more informa- Ruth Powell, Director - NSO cannot help themselves. tion. Still gets denial. Encouraged 191 Florence Road with support from DC to file again, I Ginger Raney, for many years POW Waltham, MA 02453 had records given to me from 1999, Coordinator in the Waco TX VA Re- and a review by a medical doctor in 781-687-2821 gional Office. Ginger was always so our Veterans Hospital system. Sent helpful and did her best for us old Partial List of New Jersey file, and three weeks later I get a call POWs and our dependents, going the Benefits for Veterans from widow C.P. She had received a “second mile” time after time, as well check, retroactive from 1999 to 2011. as being available to our Arlington With cooperation from Veterans Ben- State Income Tax Exclusions TX headquarters whenever needed. efits staff it was made possible.” U.S. military pension and survivor’s We wish her a happy retirement! WOW! Kay has been an NSO since benefit payments are not taxable for 1988. How rewarding for a super New Jersey gross income tax pur- “My retired life is very busy. I now volunteer! poses, regardless of the recipient’s have time to help with my very ac- age or disability status. The exemp- tive grandchildren. And I have re- But then there are those who expect tion of military pensions from New mained active as a member of the more than is possible under VA rules: Jersey gross income tax began in tax McLennan County Veterans Associa- year 2001. tion and the Good Soldier Founda- Rudy Collins, our NSO in Property Tax Deduction There is an tion. These two groups ensure the Leavenworth, WA, was state com- annual property tax deduction of two community honors our Nation’s vet- mander in Montana for many years hundred and fifty dollars for eligible erans and active duty soldiers. and now has a challenge from John veterans. Filing an application with G in Billings, MT area. He is custo- all required documentation prior to “I can never express my appreciation dian for his mother, surviving spouse December 31 of the pre-tax year in for all of the support and kindness of M.G., 42 months as a Japanese order to be effective in the next year. that all the American Ex-Prisoners of POW, who passed away in 1985, with Documentation includes the prop- War have shown me through the cause of death listed as “Cardiomy- erty deed and discharge (DD-214) for years. Please pass on my thanks to opathy.” Mrs. G applied for VA sur- the veteran. The widow may need to all POWs for their sacrifices and for vivors benefits in 1986, but was de- submit the property deed, marriage the kindness shown to me. I would nied since heart disease was not a certificate, death certificate and dis- love to hear from any of you. You service-connected presumptive at charge (DD-214). may share my email address and that time. She again applied for DIC Property Tax Exemption. Eligibility mailing address. I will always appre- in 2003, but again was denied Jan. for Veterans who meet all of the fol- ciate the friendships I have made. 16, 2004, same reason. BUT, heart lowing criteria: Served during a May God always bless each and ev- trouble was approved as a POW pre- specified wartime period. Received ery one of you. Respectfully, Gingery sumptive on Oct. 7, 2004, and on-the- an honorable discharge or under hon- Raney, PO Box 293, Waco TX 76703; ball NSO Rudy Collins applied and orable conditions. Rated 100 percent [email protected]. helped Mrs. G get her DIC on Sept. permanent service-connected by the 14, 2008, plus retroactive 12 months, VA. The 100 percent rating cannot be Calls made to new widows as listed standard VA benevolence. Now John temporary or as a result of hospital- in TAPS in July/August EX-POW Bul- G has asked Rudy to apply to go back ization, surgery or recuperation. letin: OH, Doc Unger; MA, Katherine to the date heart became a presump- Arnold; IA, Betty Grinstead; FL, NY/ tive, Oct. 7, 2004, since they had de- The exemption unlike the deduction VT, Melanie Bussel; NJ, Charles is PRORATED from the date the vet- Susino; WA/NM/WI/CO/AR/LA/TX, eran or spouse filed the application Fred Campbell, Betty Harlan. with ALL required documentation. Ex-POW Bulletin Many tax assessors exempt the prop- Sept/Oct 2011 erty tax January 1 of the next year. The same proration process applies 8 to the surviving spouse. pow medsearch 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40 Marsha Coke, Chairman Arlington, TX 76010 e-mail: [email protected] (817) 649-2979

VA Secretary Establishes ALS “We are extremely grateful to Sec- to process, and for them and their as a Presumptive Compensable retary Peake, Congressman Henry families to receive the compensa- Illness Brown and Senator Lindsey Graham tion they have earned through for standing on the side of veter- their service to our nation.” September 23, 2008 ans with ALS across the country,” said Gary Leo, president and CEO ALS, also called Lou Gehrig’s dis- Cites Association between Mili- of The ALS Association. “Thanks to tary Service and Later Develop- ease, is a neuromuscular disease their leadership, veterans with ALS that affects about 20,000 to ment of ALS will receive the benefits and care WASHINGTON – Veterans with 30,000 people of all races and they need, when they need them. ethnicities in the United States, is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) Thanks to their efforts, no veteran may receive badly-needed support often relentlessly progressive, with ALS will ever be left behind.” and is almost always fatal. for themselves and their families after the Department of Veterans The report, titled Amyotrophic Lat- ALS causes degeneration of nerve Affairs (VA) announced today that eral Sclerosis in Veterans: Review of ALS will become a presumptively cells in the brain and spinal cord the Scientific Literature, analyzed that leads to muscle weakness, compensable illness for all veter- numerous previous studies on the ans with 90 days or more of con- muscle atrophy, and spontaneous issue and concluded that “there is muscle activity. Currently, the tinuously active service in the mili- limited and suggestive evidence of tary. cause of ALS is unknown, and an association between military ser- there is no effective treatment. “Veterans are developing ALS in vice and later development of rates higher than the general ALS.” population, and it was appropri- The new interim final regulation ate to take action,” Secretary of applies to all applications for ben- “ALS is a disease that progresses efits received by VA on or after Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. rapidly, once it is diagnosed,” the Peake said. September 23, 2008, or that are Secretary explained. ”There sim- pending before VA, the United Secretary Peake based his decision ply isn’t time to develop the evi- primarily on a November 2006 re- States Court of Appeals for Vet- dence needed to support compen- erans Claims, or the United States port by the National Academy of sation claims before many veterans Sciences’ Institute of Medicine Court of Appeals for the Federal become seriously ill. My decision Circuit on that date. (IOM) on the association between will make those claims much easier active-duty service and ALS.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors who has a hereditary form of the Amyotrophic In about 10% of cases, ALS is caused disease. lateral sclerosis by a genetic defect. In the remain- ing cases, the cause is unknown. Symptoms Lou Gehrig’s disease; ALS In ALS, nerve cells (neurons) waste Symptoms usually do not develop away or die, and can no longer send until after age 50, but they can start messages to muscles. This eventu- Upper and lower motor neu- in younger people. Persons with ally leads to muscle weakening, ALS have a loss of muscle strength ron disease; Motor neuron twitching, and an inability to move and coordination that eventually disease the arms, legs, and body. The con- gets worse and makes it impossible dition slowly gets worse. When the to do routine tasks such as going Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or muscles in the chest area stop up steps, getting out of a chair, or ALS, is a disease of the nerve cells working, it becomes hard or impos- swallowing. in the brain and spinal cord that sible to breathe on one’s own. control voluntary muscle move- Breathing or swallowing muscles ment. ALS affects approximately 5 out of may be the first muscles affected. every 100,000 people worldwide. There are no known risk factors, Ex-POW Bulletin ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig’s Sept/Oct 2011 disease. except for having a family member 9 Blood tests to rule out other condi- available to help people who are cop- medsearch continued... tions ing with the disorder. As the disease gets worse, more Breathing test to see if lung muscles muscle groups develop problems. are affected Support for people who are caring for ALS does not affect the senses (sight, Cervical spine CT or MRI to be sure someone with ALS is also available, smell, taste, hearing, touch). It only there is no disease or injury to the and may be very helpful. rarely affects bladder or bowel func- neck, which can mimic ALS tion, or a person’s ability to think or Electromyography to see which Expectations (prognosis) reason. nerves do not work properly Over time, people with ALS progres- Genetic testing, if there is a family sively lose the ability to function and Symptoms include: history of ALS care for themselves. Death often oc- Difficulty breathing Head CT or MRI to rule out other con- curs within 3 - 5 years of diagnosis. Difficulty swallowing ditions About 25% of patients survive for Choking easily Nerve conduction studies more than 5 years after diagnosis. Drooling Swallowing studies Gagging Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) Complications Head drop due to weakness of the Breathing in food or fluid (aspiration) neck muscles Treatment Loss of ability to care for self Muscle cramps There is no known cure for ALS. The Lung failure (See: Adult respiratory Muscle contractions called fascicula- first drug treatment for the disease distress syndrome) tions is a medicine called riluzole. Riluzole Pneumonia Muscle weakness that slowly gets slows the disease progression and Pressure sores worse prolongs life. Weight loss Commonly involves one part of the body first, such as the arm or hand Treatments to control symptoms are Calling your health care provider Eventually leads to difficulty lifting, also helpful: Call your health care provider if: climbing stairs, and walking Baclofen or diazepam may be used You have symptoms of ALS, particu- Paralysis to control spasticity that interferes larly if you have a family history of Speech problems, such as a slow or with daily activities. the disorder abnormal speech pattern (slurring of Trihexyphenidyl or amitriptyline You or someone else has been diag- words) may be prescribed for people with nosed with ALS and symptoms get Voice changes, hoarseness problems swallowing their own sa- worse or new symptoms develop Weight loss liva. Increased difficulty swallowing, dif- Physical therapy, rehabilitation, use ficulty breathing, and episodes of Signs and tests of braces or a wheelchair, or other apnea are symptoms that require The health care provider will take a orthopedic measures may be needed immediate attention. medical history, which includes to maximize muscle function and strength and endurance. general health. Prevention You may want to see a genetic coun- A physical examination of strength Choking is common. Patients may selor if you have a family history of shows weakness, often beginning in decide to have a tube placed into ALS. one area. There may be muscle trem- their stomach for feeding. This is ors, spasms, twitching, or loss of called a gastrostomy. References muscle tissue (atrophy). Atrophy and 1.Feldman EL. Amyotrophic lateral twitching of the tongue are common. A nutritionist is very important. Pa- sclerosis and other motor neuron tients with ALS tend to lose weight. diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, The person’s walk may be stiff or The illness itself increases the need eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Phila- clumsy. Reflexes are abnormal. There for food and calories. At the same delphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; are increased reflexes at the joints, time, problems with swallowing 2007:chap. 435. but there may be a loss of the gag make it hard to eat enough. Reviewed by: David C. Dugdale, III, reflex. Some patients have trouble Breathing devices include machines MD, Professor of Medicine, Division controlling crying or laughing. This that are used only at night, and con- of General Medicine, Department of is sometimes called “emotional in- stant mechanical ventilation. Medicine, University of Washington continence.” Patients should discuss their wishes School of Medicine; and Daniel B. regarding artificial ventilation with Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor Tests that may be done include: their families and doctors. of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Support Groups Massachusetts General Hospital. Also Ex-POW Bulletin Emotional support is vital in coping reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Sept/Oct 2011 with the disorder, because mental Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. functioning is not affected. Groups National Center for Biotechnology 10 such as the ALS Association may be Information JAPANESE CAMPS DONATIONS AXPOW MEDSEARCH Southeast Asia-Saigon, Port Area .50 SS Oryuku Maru (Hellship) .90 CAMP DESCRIPTIONS Sumatra .90 Thailand (Siam) .50 Tientsin, China .40 Camp descriptions available from AXPOW. All are from the National Archives. If your camp is not listed, it is be- Umeda Bonshu .70 cause the National Archives does not have it available. Utashinai, Hokkaido .50 War Road Jail, China .50 JAPANESE CAMPS DONATIONS Woosung .50 Akenobe #6 $.70 Zentsuji Headquarters 1.10 Batavia, Java .90 Taiwan Formosa, includes Camps 31, Beppa .50 Taihoku: Camp V, Taihoku: Camp VI, Bilibid Prison 1.30 Taihoku, Kinkaseki: Camp II, Taichu: Bridge House Jail, China .50 Camp III, Heito: Camp IV, Kagi & Burma .40 Tako 2.10 Cabanatuan #1 .50 Cabanatuan #3 2.10 Camp O’Donnell .60 GERMAN CAMPS DONATIONS Changi, Singapore .70 Camp Conditions (general) .70 D 12, Hitachi .90 Dulag Luft .40 Davao Penal Colony .70 Hohemark Hospital & Luckenwalde .90 Fengtai, China .50 Marlag und Milag Nord .90 Fukuoka #1 .90 Oflag 13-B 1.50 Fukuoka #2 .90 Oflag 64 Fukuoka #3 .90 Reserve-Lazaret Obermassfeld .70 Fukuoka #10 .70 (the orthopedic hospital) Fukuoka #11 .50 Rumania .50 Fukuoka #17 .70 Stalag 2-B 1.50 Fukuoka #22 .70 Stalag 3-B 1.70 Hakodate Branch Camp #2 .70 Stalag 7-A 1.50 Hoten, Juken, Manchuria .70 Stalag 9-B 1.10 Initial Phase – Philippines 1.10 Stalag 17-B 1.50 Jinsen, Korea .50 Stalag Luft 1 1.50 Kiangwan, China .70 Stalag Luft 3 1.50 Manila, Port Area .40 Stalag Luft 4 .40 Mitushima, Tokyo Camp #2-D .70 Stalag Luft 6 .40 Makaishima, Honshu .70 Transit Camp - Section of Dulag Luft 1.10 Mukden, Manchuria (temporary) .50 German Orders Governing Prisoners Nakhon Pathom, Thailand .50 of War in Europe 2.30 Naval POW Camp, Shanghai .40 For orders up to 4.00, add Notogawa #9-B .50 *Shipping / Handling fees: $3.00; For orders 4.01 to 7.99, add $4.00; For orders October Ship (Hellship) .90 8.00 to 25.00, add $8.00, For orders 25.01 to 49.99, add .50 Omine $13.00; For orders 50.00 to 99.99, add $15.00 For orders .70 Osaka #3, Oeyama over 100.00, add $20.00. .70 Osaka #5-B Checks/Money Order/Credit Card Accepted. Osaka #12-B .70 .70 Osaka Group, Sakurajima, Osaka Check packets you wish to order and send with payment .90 Palawan Barracks to: MEDSEARCH, 3201 East Pioneer Parkway .90 Rangoon Prison, Burma #40, Arlington, TX 76010 Roku Poshi .70 Name Saigon POW Camp, .50 Phone .70 French Indo-China Address .50 Sendai Camp #6, Hanawa City, State, Zip Sendai Camp #11 .50 Amount enclosed $ ______(includes shipping/han- dling*) MasterCard and Visa accepted (circle one) ($5.00 minimum charge) Card Number: Ex-POW Bulletin Expiration Date: Sept/Oct 2011 11 Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2011 12 the monuments out in the Civil War was packed and stored out of the andersonville prison site and Andersonville Na- way, contractors began the instal- tional Cemetery, others are very lation of the system. Now that the thankful for the air conditioning system installation is complete, within the National Prisoner of War park curator Bridget Beers has Museum. started transferring the collections into the new cabinets. This process One very special visitor this sum- is expected to be completed this mer was Retired Capt. Theodore W. fall. Triebel, former Vietnam Prisoner of War, who brought his family with him to make a very precious dona- tion to the park. Mr. Triebel was a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy Andersonville NHS when his plane was shot down in 496 Cemetery Road North Vietnam on August 27, 1972. Andersonville, GA 31711 He wrote a poem to his mother af- (229) 924-0343 ter spending two months in solitary Brad Bennett, Superintendent confinement at Hoa Loa prison, bet- ter known as the Hanoi Hilton. He [email protected] was released on March 29, 1973. On June 28, 2011, during his visit to Andersonville, Capt. Triebel read Preserving POW Artifacts the poem aloud to park staff and his family. Ted Triebel donates poem, written by Bridget Beers, Curator to his mother while a POW in Viet- [email protected] The timing was right for this dona- nam, to Andersonville NHS museum tion, as Andersonville National His- curator Bridget Beers. At this writing, the park is busy toric Site (NHS) is celebrating the with summer visitors. While many installation of a new museum stor- are braving the hot weather to view age system, which more than Andersonville NHS collects objects doubles the number of and archives related to the Ameri- museum cabinets, can Prisoner of War (POW) experi- from 22 to 49, plus ence. Objects include correspon- shelving and an art dence to and from friends and fami- rack. The existing col- lies and items made or used while lection was close to in prison camps. We are always full capacity of the old looking for donations, especially in storage arrangement, wars that are under-represented in but the new system the collection, such as pre-Civil War now allows the park to conflicts, the Korean War, and Op- accept more dona- eration Iraq Freedom. Objects from tions and store them these and other wars will help us safely and properly better preserve and interpret the according to National POW story throughout American Park Service (NPS) cu- history. ratorial standards. The park graciously thanks the hun- This project started in dreds of former POWs and their 2010 with packing up families for their donations to the the entire collection museum collection. Persons inter- with the assistance of ested in donating items can contact museum staff from the park’s museum curator, Bridget the NPS Southeast Ar- Beers, at 229-924-0343. cheological Center and Jimmy Carter Na- tional Historic Site. Ex-POW Bulletin Once the collection Sept/Oct 2011 13 California at the same time. Mike namPOW news was sent to VA-146, the Blue Dia- monds, I went to VA-216 the Black Diamonds. We even lived in the same cul-de-sac in base housing at Lemoore.

McGrath kept the tradition alive when he was shot down and cap- tured in June 1967 - almost ex- actly one year after I was!

Paul E. Galanti Mike had a somewhat checkered National Director, East Central career as a midshipman and was 804.389.1668 (cell) renowned among his classmates ter being shot down over Vietnam, [email protected] for his incredible energy and incli- vividly presents a straightforward nation to tweak the system at ev- and compelling tale of survival, of ery possible opportunity – usually years of suffering, and of the hu- not quite to the point of disciplin- man will to endure. Prisoner of War – ary action. But always close to it! He lived on the edge. “During the era of the unpopular the book - Revisited Vietnam War few issues united the Mike McGrath was an All-East wres- American people as did the emo- tler at the Naval Academy, Captain tion-laden problem of POWs and Virtually the only graphic evidence of Navy’s great wrestling team and MIAs. When the peace treaties were of the inhumane treatment Vietnam famous among his closest friends finally signed and the POWs re- POWs received courtesy of their as the perpetrator of some of the turned to American soil, the nation Communist captors is in the form most classic pranks ever pulled off was collectively relieved by their of a series of drawings done by an in that esteemed institution’s long safe return. unlikely artist immediately after his history. But not many knew that return from captivity. Mike was an accomplished artist. “A self-taught artist, the starkness of McGrath’s drawings underscores Disclaimer up The Naval Institute published his his remarkable and moving front: I have great work, Prisoner of War by John chronicle of the lives of these pris- known Mike M. McGrath, then a LCDR, shortly oners, who were constantly in peril, McGrath since attempting to survive a June 1958 brutal captivity almost when we were unimaginable in civi- inducted into lized times.” the Naval Acad- emy with the The book lists for Class of 1962. I $19.95 by the Naval don’t often admit that but it’s im- Institute’s pricing but portant to this article to under- will be available for stand. Mike and I checked in at the $12.97 for USNI mem- same time, took classes together bers or similarly low for the first two years, went prices on Amazon or through flight training at the same Barnes & Noble. time on four different bases, were flight instructors in Pensacola af- after the large release of POWs from This book, authored by one of the ter receiving our wings, were as- Hanoi in early 1973. It has had true all-time leaders (and charac- signed A-4 Skyhawk jet attack air- many printings since then and will ters!) of Naval Aviation makes a craft as our first fleet assignment be released in paperback in Novem- great gift for grandchildren to un- at the Naval Air Station, Lemoore, ber of this year. Here is what the derstand what sacrifices were made U.S. Naval Institute has to say about by our prisoners of war. More im- Prisoner of War: portantly, it emphasizes the coping Ex-POW Bulletin skills required to survive which are Sept/Oct 2011 “John M. McGrath, a young Navy rarely taught these days. 14 pilot who was captured in 1967 af- It’s a great read. Get a copy! were again two Recovery Teams stroyed in the attack and were nei- pow-mia (RTs) in South Korea, despite the ther recovered nor buried near the fact that there have been no suc- location. cessful field recoveries there to date, due to heavy population that The second group are Army Air dramatically reduces chances for Forces: 1st Lt. Jack E. Volz, 21, of successful excavations. Until field Indianapolis, In; 2nd Lt. Regis E. recoveries are again approved in Dietz, 28, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; 2nd Lt. North Korea, the best hope for Ko- Edward J. Lake, 25, of Brooklyn, rean War accounting lies in identi- N.Y.; 2nd Lt. Martin P. Murray, 21, fying remains previously returned of Lowell, Mass.; 2nd Lt. William J. unilaterally by North Korea or by Shryock, 23, of Gary, Ind.; Tech. Sgt. PNC John Edwards identifying disinterred remains Robert S. Wren, 25, of Seattle, from the National Memorial Cem- Wash.; Tech. Sgt. Hollis R. Smith, 22, Chairman etery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) that of Cove, Ark.; Staff Sgt. Berthold A. 889 Randall Road were buried as unknowns. The ID Chastain, 27, Dalton, Ga.; Staff Sgt. Niskayuna, NY 12309-4815 process has advanced dramatically, Clyde L. Green, 24, Erie, Pa.; Staff (518) 393-3907 phone & fax now enabling such IDs to be made; Sgt. Frederick E. Harris, 23, however, more forensic anthropolo- Medford, Mass.; Staff Sgt. Claude A. Statistics from Vietnam War gists are needed. Sadly, they are Ray, 24, Coffeyville, Kan.; and Staff too often used for field operations Sgt. Claude G. Tyler, 24, Landover, There are now 1,685 Americans instead of focusing greater atten- Md. The remains representing the listed by the Defense POW/Missing tion on remains IDs. entire crew will be buried as a Personnel Office (DPMO) as miss- group, in a single casket in Arling- ing and unaccounted-for from the Missing World War II Soldiers ton National Cemetery near Wash- Vietnam War. DPMO recently Identified ington, D.C. Eight of the airmen posted the news that Major Thomas were identified and buried as indi- E. Clark, USAF, PA, listed as MIA in The Department of Defense POW/ viduals during previous ceremo- Laos on 2/8/69, and Major Bruce Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) nies. Shryock, Green and Harris E. Lawrence, USAF, NJ, listed as MIA announced that the remains of fif- were also individually identified in North Vietnam 7/6/68 12/1/65, teen servicemen, missing in action and will be interred individually at are now accounted for. Major from World War II, have been iden- Arlington. Clark’s remains were jointly recov- tified and are being returned to ered on 11/16/05 and identified 6/ their families for burial with full Of the 16 million Americans who 3/11. Major Lawrence’s remains military honors. served in World War II, more than were recovered 6/26/98 and iden- 400,000 died. At the end of the tified 6/3/11. The number of The first of three identified were war, the U.S. government was un- Americans returned and identified Army Pfc. Lawrence N. Harris, of able to recover and identify ap- since the end of the Vietnam War Elkins, W.V., Cpl. Judge C.Hellums, proximately 79,000 Americans. in 1975 is now 898; another 63 US of Paris, Miss., and Pvt. Donald D. Today, more than 73,000 are unac- personnel, recovered post-incident Owens, of Cleveland, were buried counted-for from the conflict. and identified before the end of the as a group, in a single casket, in war, bring the total to 961. Of the Arlington NationalCemetery. In 1,685 unreturned American veter- late September 1944, their unit, the issing/ aptured ans from the Vietnam War, our 773rd Tank Battalion, was fighting M C POW/MIAs, 90% were lost in Viet- its way east to France’s eastern bor- US Service members reported miss- nam or in areas of Laos and Cam- der, clearing German forces out of ing or captured while supporting bodia under Vietnam’s wartime the Parroy Forest near Lunéville. combat operations: control: Vietnam – 1,293 (VN-474, On Oct. 9, 1944, in the final battle VS-819); Laos – 327; Cambodia – 58; for control of the region, Hellums, Army Spc. Bowe R. Bergdahi, 25, Peoples Republic of China territo- Harris, Owens and two other sol- June 30,2009, Afghanistan rial waters – 7. Over 450 were over- diers were attacked by enemy fire Army Staff Sgt. Ahmed K. Altaie, 45, Oct. 23, 2006, Baghdad water losses. in their M-10 Tank Destroyer. Two men survived with serious injuries Korean War Accounting: There is but Harris, Hellums and Owens again buzz that the US and North were reported to have been killed. Ex-POW Bulletin Korea will enter into talks to re- Evidence at the time indicated the Sept/Oct 2011 start recovery operations that were remains of the men had been de- halted in 2005. Recently, there 15 civilians River, seeing the fruits of the Battle edges. The speed was abysmally of Manila. The buildings were shell slow, no more than 6 knots. pocked and burned-out shells, and bridges were wreckage of twisted Strangely, we were sailing south, steel. We crossed on a pontoon rather than northeast, where bridge and passed what was left of America lay. Even though the Japa- the Intramuros, the once massive nese fleet had largely been de- walls reduced to rubble and the stroyed in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, inside a sea of devastation with many surface warships survived only the shell of a cathedral show- and submarines still harried Allied ing above the rubble. shipping in the western Pacific. Our Sally Bateman Morgan course would take us through the Chairman Turning away from the destruction, Philippine Islands, across the equa- 3201 E Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 we drove onto a pier and saw a tor to New Guinea, then across the Arlington, TX 76010 large gray ship. The S.S. John Lykes Pacific to Hawaii and the West 817-649-2979 was leased to the Army as a troop Coast. [email protected] transport. By today’s standards, she was relatively small - 418-feet On our first morning at sea, there long and 5,028 gross tons, config- was an abandon-ship drill. If the ured to carry 1,288 troops. She was ship was damaged or sinking, we Going Home similar to a Victory ship, except were to report to our assigned with a higher top speed, and armed emergency stations wearing our Soon after the euphoria of libera- with two 3-inch guns forward, a 4- kapok life jackets, and remain there tion, the internees’ thoughts turned inch gun aft, and several 20-milli- until ordered to abandon ship. to going home. Repatriation started meter guns. I was assigned to one When that order came, we were to almost immediately, with the sick- of the two forward holds with GIs jump overboard, and life rafts est of the military POWs from Bilibid and civilian men, while my mother stowed in various places on the ship going first. Then on February 12, and sister were in the aft hold with would be released into the water, 1945, while the battle of Manila still all of the women. On board were which we should board. The expla- raged, the Army nurses in Santo about 500 ex-prisoners from Santo nation seemed so straightforward Tomas departed, followed by a Tomas and an equivalent number and easy that there was no reason large group of civilians on Febru- to worry. Nothing was said about ary 23. Those early repatriations floating or burning oil and the dif- occurred from a temporary airfield ficulties we might encounter if the in North Manila and the people were ship was still under attack. flown to Leyte to board ships. Fi- nally the Port of Manila was de- We soon developed a daily routine clared safe, and the first repatria- for the month at sea. Everyone tion ship from there was the SS John staked out territory on deck, where Lykes, departing on April 2, 1945 we slept, braving the tropical show- with passengers from Santo Tomas. ers to avoid the 5-high bunks and This is the story of that voyage as the stifling heat in the holds. We told by Angus Lorenzen. had three square meals a day served mess-hall style, the GIs sharing We finally received notice that we of GIs, not a full load; but still mess duty while we civilians free- were on the next repatriation ship, crowded. loaded. But the most important and assembled with our battered event of the day was at noon when suitcases in the plaza early on the We sailed in the late afternoon, a news report was read over the morning of April 2. As our bus twisting and turning along a nar- ship’s public address system. In drove through the main gate, I row passage blasted between the Europe, Germany’s defenses were looked back to see Santo Tomas for hulks of sunken ships in Manila collapsing under the Allied ad- the last time for more than 50 Bay. That evening, we passed vances on Berlin. years. We turned towards the Pasig Corregidor and joined a convoy being assembled for the voyage to We crossed the equator without the Ex-POW Bulletin America. Our convoy had about 50 traditional ceremony, but did re- Sept/Oct 2011 ships neatly aligned in parallel col- ceived a certificate attesting to the umns, with a screen of destroyer fact that we’d met King Neptune’s 16 escorts patrolling around the ened by the poor nutrition in Santo A band was on the dock playing civilians, cont’d... Tomas. With no place to keep the patriotic favorites as we moored, remains, the child was given a and a crowd of people stood nearby requirements and were now quali- burial at sea according to maritime waving and shouting. The GIs de- fied members of the court. We re- tradition. parted first, and then we boarded buses to take us to a reception cen- ceived a similar certificate later Our convoy broke up when we ter at the Elk’s Club in Los Angeles. when we crossed the International reached Hawaii, and we were on our Date Line. own for the last leg. The days were When we entered the hall, friends now getting cooler and it was no and relatives rushed to meet loved The ship docked and resupplied at longer comfortable to sleep out on ones, and hugs, kisses, and crying New Hollandia, then started the the deck, while the temperature in followed. But we didn’t expect any- long voyage across the trackless the hold was more pleasant. Sleep- one, and only wanted to know what Pacific while the destroyer escorts ing soundly one night, I was jolted we were to do next. A tall soldier tightened up the formation. All awake by the raucous sound of the started walking over to us saying, ships were directed to hold a live alarm klaxon warning everyone to “Elsie? Elsie is that you?” And then fire practice, and for an hour, ev- go to the abandon ship stations. he rushed to my mother and ery ship was firing all of its arma- The GIs in the bunks around me hugged her, finally turning to hug ment, and our Navy gun crews en- complained that it was just a nui- my sister, then me. It was my thusiastically participate. The sance drill, and decided that they’d brother, who I hadn’t seen since he sound reverberating off the steel skip it and go back to sleep. I fig- left for college in Shanghai before plates of the ship was deafening, ured they knew what they were the war started. It was a testament far worse than artillery during the doing, and skipped the drill also. to how much we had changed, es- battle of Manila. The sound of running and shouts pecially my mother, that he had coming from above, followed by made that first tentative question Half way to Hawaii our ship re- slamming and toggling of water- when he first saw us. He too had quired more rations, and a supply tight doors, kept me awake until I changed, seeming taller, more ma- ship came alongside about 100 feet finally got to sleep in the eerie quiet ture, and very handsome in his from us. Lines were passed across that followed. the open water, and crates were Army uniform. swung across and quickly stored Unconcerned that I’d skipped the In the days that followed there was below. Unfortunately, one crate was drill, I sauntered onto the deck in a rush to exchange stories, but it mishandled and broke apart, spew- the morning, only to discover that was several days before we learned ing Hershey chocolate bars across it was not a drill! During the night, of John’s adventures with the Chi- the deck, which quickly and miracu- the ship’s watch had seen a subma- nese guerillas and the Flying Tigers. lously disappeared, leaving only rine on the surface that did not re- He was now stationed in Washing- grinning faces with smears of spond to the recognition signal. The ton D.C., and also told us that after brown. gun crews tracked the submarine, being repatriated in 1943, my fa- waiting either for the proper coded ther was back in China serving with On April 14 we all gathered on our reply or for the order to fire and the OSS. favorite perches for the noon re- sink it. It was on a course that was port. Expecting to hear more good the reverse of ours, and we were Right now, though, the first order news about the advance on Berlin, approaching bow-on. And then it of business was lunch. We drove to the first bulletin was a complete quietly passed our port side and a nearby restaurant, where for the shock. President Roosevelt had slowly slipped into the dark astern. first time since entering Santo died the previous day in Warm The submarine was never ex- Tomas, we were be able to choose Springs, Georgia. The newsreader plained, and we’ll never know from a menu. It was overwhelming, paused, and there was a total si- whether it was friend or foe. lence, then someone sobbed, and until I saw the word, “hamburger”, and my choice was made as I re- all around me were these tough GIs In the predawn hours of May 2 ev- membered the loving detail with with tears streaming down their eryone aboard ship assembled on which the GIs described this deli- faces. The people loved this jaunty the deck. In the dim light, we could cacy. It was pure heaven, and we president who had led the country see low hills in the distance. knew we were back in the heart of out of the Great Depression and America at last! The ship slowed to civilization. directed the armed forces as they a frustratingly imperceptible speed. smashed the German and Japanese After 31 days on the John Lykes, war machinery. we were all impatient to get past Ex-POW Bulletin A few days later, another tragedy the last 3 or 4 miles to our dock. Sept/Oct 2011 struck. A small child died, weak- 17 ing an immense amount of data and footage, capturing memories of tri- looking umph, pain, loss, victory and joy. We hope to bring to light the count- events less stories overlooked in your com- for mon history books or your com- mercialized hollywood movies. Sept. 29-Oct. 2, 2011. The 35th My name is Chris Campbell. I am a These were the everyday circum- Infantry Div. Association will hold television show creator/developer. stances that surrounded a soldier, its Annual Reunion at the Hilton I am currently doing research on a nurse, journalist, officer, etc dur- Airport Hotel, Kansas City, MO. For program for Primitive Entertain- ing this heroic and tumultuous time details call Col. Robert Dalton 785- ment, a Toronto based television in our history. 267-3295; production company surrounding My grandfather fought in Europe www.35thInfDivAssoc.Com. games in WWII and how they with the British in 1944 and was helped Allied POW’s escape from involved in Operation Market Gar- prisons, via hidden silk maps and Oct. 12-16, 2011. USAAF (USAF) den or Arnhem…later tagged “A tools. I was also wondering if 95th(H )Bomb Group Association Bridge Too Far” and my father was your organization knows of any will hold its annual reunion at the a veteran of the Vietnam war. I’m a veterans that used the maps and Marriott SEA-TAC Airport, 3201 S. film maker who has a renowned other tools hidden in any humani- 176 St. Seattle, WA 98188. Reser- respect for ALL of the veterans who tarian packages to escape? If so, I vations 800-228-9290; Contact have sacrificed for this great nation. would love to talk to them about info: 1-206-241-2000. For a sample of the work we do...we this. If you could please get back have a faith based film hitting the to me on this issues when you get October 22-23, 2011. The 8th Air theaters this spring. You can see it a chance, I would really appreciate Force’s 93rd Bomb Group Associa- at: www.BrothersKeeperFilm.com. it. I look forward to hearing from tion is sponsoring the “Ploesti Sum- We will eventually expand the se- you soon. mit”. The location will be in Tuc- ries to later conflicts such as the [email protected]. son AZ in the vicinity of the PIMA Korean, Vietnam and Gulf Wars. If County Museum and Davis- you are a veteran of any war, and I ran across a statistic a couple of Monthan Air Force Base. Tours of would like to share your experience years ago that showed military PIMA and the Air Base are sched- with us, we would be honored and members who were taken captive uled as well as other fun appreciative of your time. Thank had a higher survival success rate events.This will be a very special you. DesertWind Films, 414 793 if they participated in athletics reunion of the 44th, 93rd, 98th, 376th 9772; [email protected]. during high school or college. Not and 389th Bomb Groups who flew exactly sure how it was worded but the mission. Contact: Jim Guddal Looking for any 15th Air Force B- along those lines. I want to say it at 763-694.9058 or 24 pilots or crew who were shot was from the University of Michi- [email protected]. down on the March 19, 1944 mis- gan. Does that sound familiar? sion to Graz, Austria, who would Want to use that fact in recruiting Nov. 17, 2011. The unveiling of be willing to give a short interview high school athletes. David Falls, the newly refurbished 14-ft for an upcoming book by author Library Technician/Head Wrestling model of the USS Houston CA-30 Adam Makos. If interested, please Coach, Pueblo West High School; will take place at the National contact Adam by email at: (719) 547-8050 (retired USAF MSgt) Museum of the US Navy, 805 Kidder [email protected] or by tele- Breese St. SE, Washington, DC phone at: 570-435-4523 (MST). My name is Josh Mills. I’m the CEO 20374, beginning at 11AM. Plan Thank you! and Co-founder of Desert Wind now to join USS Houston CA-30 Films. We are currently in develop- survivors, spouses, widows, family I’m looking for information on any ment on our documentary series – members and friends at this and all ground and flight crew THE GREATEST GENERATION. This memorable event. Contact: members of the 15th AF based in film is dedicated to acknowledging, www.usshouston.org; North Africa and Italy during WWII honoring and preserving the sto- [email protected]. who participated in any bombing ries of these great men and raids on the Oil Fields in Ploesti, women that served in World War Romania. Please contact, Dennis 2. We are contacting organizations Posey, phone number: 770-509- Ex-POW Bulletin from around the country and re- 7734; [email protected]. Thank Sept/Oct 2011 questing assistance in reaching you, Herman “Herk” Streitburger, 18 these survivors. We will be collect- Bedford, NH. One of the country’s oldest, most looking for cont’d... graciously beautiful veterans’ re- tirement homes, the United States I am looking for any info about my Armed Forces Retirement Home uncle Claude V Gross, AAF, (formerly Soldiers and Airmen’s 3407934, resident of North Caro- Home) (USAFRH) in Washington, lina. To the best of my knowledge, D.C., is a monument to resilience. Claude was in the 15th AF, as a right Several buildings are on the Historic waist gunner on a B-17. He was cap- Register; Quarters I and Lincoln’s tured and was held in Stalag Luft Retreat were summer White Houses 4. Thank you. John F Robbins, 265 for Presidents Arthur, Hayes, Nebraska St., Spindale, NC 28160; Buchanan and most notably, 704-884-6805. Abraham Lincoln who spent one- and much debris litters the campus. fourth of his presidency there at the Dining was moved to the fitness My husband, Randolph Macon Lincoln Cottage where he wrote the center and some of the fitness Brantley, was captured in the final draft of the Emancipation equipment and computers moved Battle of the Bulge. Before he was Proclamation. The campus was to individual floors so residents can captured, he and another man were evacuation salvation for the hun- still access them. Financing for re- checking buildings for the enemy. dreds from the sister facility in pairs is scarce. On September 2nd, There was a shot and the man Gulfport when it was ravaged four Alice Booher and DeLeon Fields pushed my husband into a build- years ago by Hurricane Katrina. But from Red Top Cab delivered a col- ing, taking a bullet for him. My hus- lection of some 1700 comfort items band carried the man to the jeep collected by various veterans ser- and brought him to the hospital. He vice organizations and the Board of never learned his name and would Veterans Appeals to USFRH’s like to thank him for saving his life. Carolyn Weber, Volunteer Services My husband later caught up with Director. In the next month, avail- the 36th Inf in Italy and was with able donated funds will be used to them when he was captured close buy bags for hanging on wheel- to Moosberg. If anyone remembers chairs and walkers so that residents this incident, please contact us. can carry items with them to cam- Thank you. Jane W & Randolph M pus locations, many of them less Brantley, 702 W Railroad St., Nash- accessible than before the earth- ville, TN 27856; 252-459-6303. the USAFRH was given a nasty jolt quake (followed up by water and by the earthquake in late August wind destructive Hurricane Irene). 2011. Fortunately, none of the As additional donations are made, News some 700 veteran residents, includ- a list of needed items will be filled; ing at least five American Ex-POWs, Booher will continue to collect com- Briefs were injured, but the facilities were fort items, 2012 calendars and spe- seriously damaged. The Lincoln cial items like ballcaps. Cottage, just reopened after a lengthy restoration, has cracks in Veterans Home the walls. The Scott Building was Sandbostel already closed for demolition and Shaken and Stirred rebuilding, so there were cranes on- Memorial at location of former By Alice A. Booher site that could be moved to help POW and prisoner reception camp stabilize precarious huge slabs of Stalag X B in Sandbostel is being stone at other locations. The extended. Historians ask for Sherman Building was worst hit, support in developing the new with floors falling 6 inches, consid- permanent exhibitions erable damage to the computer lab, Since the late 1970s, there have artist’s area and dining facility been efforts to throw some light on made uninhabitable; the classic the history of the POW and prisoner tower is held together by yellow steel bands like a huge package. In the Sheridan building, rooms re- Ex-POW Bulletin mained stable but many elevator Sept/Oct 2011 weights shifted rendering them dangerous. Massive slabs of cement 19 institutions worldwide for camp at Sandbostel. About 3,000 of news, continued documents, testimonies and those died of exhaustion, artifacts for the two permanent starvation or various diseases reception camp Sandbostel and the exhibitions scheduled to open at shortly before or after their establishment of a memorial at the the site of the former camp in liberation. historic site of the camp. These Sandbostel in 2013. Dr. Klaus efforts received essential support Volland and Werner Borgsen, The second exhibition treats the through the foundation of the authors of the groundbreaking use of the site after its liberation Verein Dokumentations- und 1991 publication “Stalag X B on April 29, 1945 as the internment Gedenkstätte Sandbostel Sandbostel” are providing scientific camp C.I.C. 2 for members of the (Association for a Documentation consultation for the project. Waffen-SS (1945-1948), the and Memorial Site at Sandbostel) in Sandbostel penitentiary (1948- 1992 and the Stiftung Lager The first permanent exhibition 1952) and an emergency reception Sandbostel (Sandbostel Camp treats the history of the POW and camp for young male refugees from Foundation) in 2004. prisoner reception camp Stalag X B the GDR (1952-1960), as well as the Sandbostel in northwestern history of the Camp Sandbostel Germany. Between 1939 and 1945, Memorial Site. the camp held hundreds of thousands of prisoners of war from The Camp Sandbostel Memorial Site over 70 nations, which were used is currently home to one of the for forced labor in several hundred most important historical research external work details. Furthermore, projects in Lower Saxony. During in April 1945, several transports the past year, the memorial with a total of approximately 9,000 counted 7,500 visitors, including prisoners from the concentration 2,500 adolescents and 450 foreign camp at Neuengamme reached the visitors, which participated in

In the year 2010, the Foundation was awarded grants totaling 1.425 million Euros for the reshaping of the memorial. Aside from the federal government, the state government of Lower Saxony, the county of Rotenburg (Wümme) and the Hermann Reemtsma Foundation in Hamburg participated in the project. The money was used to develop two new permanent exhibits in two buildings remodeled expressly for this purpose, to erect information boards at the site and to avert deterioration of the unique arrangement of former housing shacks.

Since the end of last year, three new research associates have been supporting project coordinator Andreas Ehresmann and Foundation chairman Karl-Heinz Buck. Historian Dr. Jens Binner, religion scholar Dörthe Engels and political scientist Dr. Andrea Genest are searching archives and Vermont Chapter #1 Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2011 21st annual picnic at Camp Plymouth State Park. Members present, left 20 to right, Richard Hamilton, Francis Angier and Harry Howe. “We cannot thank the Metrolina Political Prison, Hungry and Stalag news, continued Chapter enough for their support Luft # IV-D, Tychowo, Poland; of a military history museum to be Mr. Herb Cooper - Rank when guided tours and lectures, and built in Mint Hill, NC, to honor all POW—TEC. SGT. at Stalag Luft # IV, discovered history and excavated veterans,” said Bill Dixon, AFMAC’s in Tychowo, Poland; remains in workshops. The goal of president. “The POW/MIA monu- Mr. L. Tom Easterling - Rank when everyone involved is to further ment and plaque will pay tribute to POW—2nd. LT. in a room with non- research into the history of Camp the Americans who never returned English speaking wounded in Sandbostel and keep the memory home from combat and to those Germany, and Stalag # V-A, alive. that faced terrible suffering and Ludwigsburg, Germany; hardships as prisoners of war in Mr. E. W. Halliburton - Rank when X-POWs Cast Their foreign lands. This monument will POW—TEC. SGT. in 10th. Wengen, E be a reminder to all who see and Swiss Alps, Switzerland; Legacy in Bronze read the bronze plaque that free- Mr. Demp McLeod - Rank when dom is not free.” POW— PFC in Work Camp 1506, North Sea, Germany; The Metrolina Chapter Mr. John Mitchell - Rank when members have pledged POW—2nd. LT. in Stalag Luft #I, their continued sup- Barth, Germany; port in fund raising Mr. Earl Osborne - Rank when activities for the POW— STAFF SGT. in Stalag # 17- AFMAC military his- B, Krems, Austria; and tory museum and Mr. James Wall – Rank when POW— POW/MIA memorial. 1st LT. in solitary confinement, This group’s exem- Beijing, China, and POW camp in plary efforts epitomize Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. the term, “the greatest generation.” Please help by contacting Augusta (GA) Chapter spokesman, Tom Easterling, by Fisher House Expansion The furnishings are in place, and A 20-foot-tall obelisk monument to email at [email protected], or the rooms are dressed up and ready be erected in front of the planned by phone at 704-563-5619. Addi- for the first Families to begin stay- Armed Forces Museum & Archives tional information can be found on ing at the Charlie Norwood VA of the Carolinas (AFMAC) will be- the AFMAC web site at Medical Center Fisher House. “We come the symbolic cornerstone for www.visitafmac.org. The Armed will have Families living here before all who served and sacrificed for Forces Museum is expected to be the dedication. We are hoping by America. In 2010, the Charlotte completed by 2013. the middle to end of September,” Metrolina Chapter of the American said Anne Arnold, Fisher House Ex-Prisoners of War, headed by manager. The dedication ceremony Commander Ed Halliburton, pre- is scheduled for Oct. 5, 2011. sented their idea of a POW/MIA me- Arnold said VA officials signed the morial to the museum’s directors acceptance papers for the com- and Roger Reimann, of Zoma Com- pleted house in August. They are munications. Nine enthusiastic and still waiting to tie up other paper- determined WWII Ex-Pows along work related ends. Construction on with Zoma Communications have the 15,000 square-foot home began worked together on the design and in May 2010. The Augusta commu- casting of a large bronze plaque nity raised $1.8 million for the con- that will forever commemorate and struction of the home, which cost honor all Prisoners of War and more than $5 million to build, ac- those Americans still missing in The Ex-Pows from the Charlotte cording to Arnold. It was completed action. Metrolina Chapter with their ranks and internments are as follows: in August. After months of planning and fund Mr. Robert Berly - Rank when nd raising efforts by the Ex-Pows and POW—2 . LT. at Stalag Luft # I, Ex-POW Bulletin its members, the Metrolina Chap- Barth, Germany; Sept/Oct 2011 ter has delivered the impressive Mr. L. Frank Caldwell - Rank when 21 $4000 bronze plaque to AFMAC. POW—TEC. SGT. at Budapest § PCF (Patrol Craft, Fast or An Idea is Born: Paws and Stripes news, continued Swift Boat) After being either turned down or § PG (Patrol Gunboat) unable to pay for service dogs from § WAK (Cargo Vessel) multiple organizations, Lindsey Agent Orange: U.S. Navy § WHEC (High Endurance Cut- and Jim decided to start their own ter) organization assisting veterans in and Coast Guard Ships in § WLB (Buoy Tender) the process of obtaining a service Vietnam § WPB (Patrol Boat) dog. In June 2010 their idea came VA has released a list of U.S. Navy § YFU (Harbor Utility Craft) to fruition, and Lindsey and Jim and Coast Guard ships associated VA will help determine qualifying incorporated Paws and Stripes. with military service in Vietnam and service in Vietnam when you file a possible exposure to Agent Orange claim for compensation benefits. Paws and Stripes, a nonprofit orga- based on military records. This nization headquartered in Rio evolving list will help Veterans who Rancho, N.M., works to provide ser- served aboard ships, including Paws & Stripes vice dogs for veterans of the United “Blue Water Veterans,” find out if Imagine a brave soldier facing the States military suffering from PTSD they may qualify for presumption trials and hardships of war – put- and TBI. The service dogs are ob- of herbicide exposure. Veterans ting his life on the line to serve his tained exclusively from shelters, must meet VA’s criteria for service country – only to return home fac- and are trained by professionals at in Vietnam, which includes aboard ing a new battle: Post Traumatic no cost to the veteran. Paws and boats on the inland waterways or Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Trau- Stripes allows the veteran to select brief visits ashore, to be matic Brain Injury (TBI). With the the service dog and participate in presumed to have been exposed to aid of man’s best friend, military the weekly training from the first herbicides. veteran Jim Stanek is receiving day, providing a unique form of unique therapy that only a dog can therapy for the veteran. Veterans who qualify for presump- provide thanks to Paws and Stripes, tion of herbicide exposure are not a nonprofit organization. Survivor Assistance required to show they were ex- VA posed to Agent Orange or other From War Hero to VA‘s Office of Survivors Assistance herbicides when seeking VA com- Recovering Veteran (OSA) ensures families of the fallen pensation for diseases related Jim Stanek, a Long Island native and have full access to the services and to Agent Orange exposure. 9/11 clean-up volunteer, began his benefits to which they‘re entitled. military career in February 2003 It was established by Public Law nd Find Your Ship serving in the 82 Airborne Divi- 110-389, Title II, Section 222, in Ships or boats that were part of the sion, F CO 51st LRSC, and the Big OCT 08 to serve as a resource re- Mobile Riverine Force, Inshore Red One. He returned home early, garding all benefits and services Fire Support (ISF) Division 93 or however, after sustaining injuries furnished by the Department to had one of the following designa- during deployment. While being survivors and dependents of de- tions operated on the inland water- treated at Brook Army Medical Cen- ceased Veterans and members of ways of Vietnam. Veterans whose ter in San Antonio, Texas, the Army the Armed Forces. military records confirm they were began the process of medically re- aboard these ships qualify for pre- tiring Jim for his multitude of inju- OSA also serves as a principal ad- sumption of herbicide exposure. ries and chronic severe PTSD and visor to the Secretary of Veterans During your Vietnam tour, did your TBI. After only six and a half years Affairs and promotes the use of VA ship or boat have one of the follow- in the Army, Jim’s military career benefits, programs and services to ing designations? came to a close. survivors. The OSA is your advocate § LCM (Landing Craft, Mecha- to ensure fairness, equity and ap- nized) The Search for a Therapy Dog propriateness of all survivor ben- § LCU (Landing Craft, Utility) Following nine months of treatment efits and to serve as the liaison for § LCVP (Landing Craft, Ve- at Brook Army Medical Center, Jim inter- and intra-agency collabora- hicle, Personnel) discovered that the most comfort tion and coordination on survivor § LST (Landing Ship, Tank) and relief he found was in the pres- issues. OSA is also fully committed § PBR (Patrol Boat, River) ence of therapy dogs. In May of to staying in step with the needs of 2010, Lindsey and Jim tried to ob- survivors to ensure that OSA re- tain a trainer for their rescue dog, mains a viable advocate for the sur- Ex-POW Bulletin Sarge, and soon discovered the tre- vivor community. They can be con- Sept/Oct 2011 mendous difficulty and expenses tacted at officeof [email protected]. 22 associated with this process.

Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2011 23 Documentary Tells Story of ‘The Tragedy of Bataan’ Unique TV and Radio Series, Narrated by Alec Baldwin

In November of this year PBS stations around the United State will have the opportunity to broadcast “The Tragedy of Bataan”- a half-hour television documentary that chronicles the fall of the Philippines and the Bataan Death March. In addition there is a 5-part radio companion series. This series features over twenty-four former POWs from the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor (ADBC) organiza- tion.

The television documentary was screened a year ago at the DG-ADBC Convention in Reno Nevada-but there have been some changes since then. The program is now narrated by acclaimed actor Alec Baldwin (star of 30 Rock and Its Complicated).

There is no specific air date as I am giving the stations the program for free and they will be able to broadcast the program for the next three years. Most likely they will broadcast the program around; the 70th anniversary dates: December 7, 2011 and April 9 2012 but also around Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day.

It is my hope to link PBS stations with a local former POW from Philippine conflict for additional pro- gramming. This means that the stations would interview you to hear your own unique story. I will be contacting many of you to see if you are interested and in turn I hope you contact me.

This program is only the “tip” of the iceberg of my work—as I am also completing a two-hour documen- tary solely on the prisoner of war experience and it will also feature Alec Baldwin.

If you are interested in possibly being interviewed for television and Ex-POW Bulletin or radio please contact me at: Sept/Oct 2011 Jan Thompson (618) 549-5418 24 [email protected] pensation for our widows, are estab- Dear Cheryl, lished laws for all future prisoners members of war for all ages to come. Please publish the following four sig- Well...that is if our organization is nificant events during the Bataan forum around to preserve them. What Con- Campaign in the Philippines 1941- gress enacts into law, Congress can 1942. take away. 1. The emblem of Bataan & Corregidor organization, founded Now, here’s an idea you might like in1959. to try to boost the trend. I called 2. The Sealion Insignia shoulder Cheryl, Editor of the AXPOW Bulle- patches worn by the 31st Inf. Reg. Keeping AXPOW Strong tin, and asked if she would give our Philippines, American Army. Continued chapter special recognition in the 3. The Carabao Head Insignia Contribution section if we donated shoulder patches worn by the Phil- Congratulations! Through your do- a significant sum. She said ‘Yes’. So ippine Scouts, Philippine Div. USA. nations, dues, and purchase of mer- I asked all of our nine ex-prisoners, 4. The story written by Bataan chandise, you added about $30,000 if we could donate as a group. We unknown soldier in 1941-1942 at the to our treasury in April. This is coughed up $1,000, Then we went battlefield in Bataan, titled “Remem- added to the $40,000 plus we were out an sold $501 in daisies. If you ber Bataan & Corregidor”. ahead of budget at the end noticed in May/June Issue, we were of March. Now our reserves are over recognized. May I challenge you to This should always be remembered $150,000, and we could be on our beat our record, and be recognized and kept before the eyes of the world. way to building up our bank accounts in the Bulletin? The biggest disaster in American his- and investments to where it was a tory took place when the Philippines few years ago. This would It’s not just an ego thing. It is our fell to the hands of the better- strengthen our financial status for token appreciation for the compen- equipped Japanese Imperial forces. the transition to a primarily next of sation we receive, the medical ben- The men and women of Bataan & kin organization. It reverses the efits for self and spouse, military Corregidor paid a high price for the trend in recent years where we were base privileges, Federal recognition freedom this country deserves. No going over budget $50,000 a year. of national POW/MIA days etc. help whatsoever came from the United States. No troops, reinforce- Why does it matter? It preserves the Thank you for your help KEEPING ments, no supplies, no food, no medi- institution that has put into law the AXPOW STRONG. cation, nothing. Our US armed forces presumptive’s which provided ben- were sent directly to England, Africa efits for deserving ex-prisoners of LEW SLEEPER and Europe…the hell with Bataan & war. These benefits, along with com- NATIONAL DIRECTOR, SW Corregidor. Our inevitable defeat was a victory elsewhere for the United States, at a high price for the troops on Bataan & Corregidor. We are call the fighting Bastards of Bataan & Corregidor. No mama, no papa, no Uncle Sam. God bless you, my fellow Filipino American ex-POWs that we are still lucky to live for our last des- tiny.

Printing this history is a token re- membrance of the Bataan & Corregidor surviving veterans who lived through the infamous Bataan Death March and the inhumane treat- ment of the Imperial Japanese Army.

Rosendo Luna Sr. SFC USA (Ret) POW WWII Bataan Survivor

Dear Cheryl, My son, Bruce, took me to Dayton, Ohio in July to the Air Force Museum. The picture shows us in front of the propeller Ex-POW Bulletin from NC (1985-86) Orlo G Natvig’s plane. Ruth Natvig Kilmer Sept/Oct 2011 25 Ex-POW Bulletin To apply by mail, call Sept/Oct 2011 AXPOW National Headquarters 26 817-649-2979 Philippines were hit on the calendar “The worst part of it was watching date of Dec. 8. all that stuff go up in smoke. That our left us short on food and very short Y “We had four B-17s,” he remembers on fuel.” of the new state-of-the art tories American bombers located at Clark He recalls, “They divided the 200th S Coast Guard Artillery and made Air Base in the Philippines. another — the other was the 515th. Bataan survivor waited “They were in flight all that I was put in the 515th. At that time, nearly 70 years for Bronze morning, up until noon, then sat the 515th was made up of Filipinos. Star Medal down at Clark to have dinner. They “The 200th then picked up all those had no more than got sat down fliers who lost the planes — which was all of them. And they filled in By Ray Westbrook until 42 Japanese bombers came the 200th with that.” Article Reprinted courtesy over. They had some small escort of the LUBBOCK (TX) planes also. “They came in and bombed He remembers, “It just started AVALANCHE-JOURNAL everything we had — and we had a going from bad to worse all the lot of planes. We had about eight time. They cut our rations down to left. a very small amount, trying to make it last. They couldn’t get any “That was the first day of war.” supplies in from the States — the (Japanese) had some blockades, Wallace, who was a resident of and we were cut off.” Tatum, N.M., when he went into the Army, had taken basic training, He said, “The first night, they sent then was sent to the Philippines, the battery that I was in to Manila. where he had been scheduled to We had to draw equipment — we continue with more training. didn’t have anything to fight with. The equipment they sent us “They planned on continuing our overseas with was from World War I.” Virgil Wallace recently was pre- training in the Philippines, but all sented the Bronze Star for Valor and that night training ... we couldn’t do it over there. It was too rough. He recalls, “The dive bombers a Presidential Unit Citation in cel- would come in and dive, and they ebration of his 98th birthday. So many gullies and hills. They tried it one night and gave it up. couldn’t follow that dive. High- flying planes ... we couldn’t reach Virgil Wallace, now a resident of “We didn’t have much to do until them, the guns wouldn’t reach that Autumn House in Idalou, still the Japanese started invading.” high. It was a real discouraging recalls what he was doing when the thing from the start.” Empire of Japan assaulted Pearl Wallace had been assigned to the Harbor in Hawaii and Luzon in the 200th Coast Guard Artillery, an He said, “Gen. (Douglas) MacArthur Phillipines. anti-aircraft unit. had already ... he was shipped out. So, they put Gen. (Jonathan) It took nearly 70 years, but Bataan “All the batteries were out in the Wainwright in as head. He was next Death March survivor Virgil field in the surrounding area. They in command.” Wallace, 98, has his Bronze Star just had a few men left to take care medal. of the barracks. I happened to be Wainwright’s forces withdrew to one who was taking care of the peninsula of Bataan, and in Wallace, now a resident of Autumn barracks, and wasn’t out with my January 1942 repelled a major House in Idalou, still recalls what battery. Japanese assault. But the Japanese he was doing when the Empire of numbers and lack of supplies Japan assaulted Pearl Harbor in “Those small planes came in firing. proved overwhelming for the Hawaii and Luzon in the Phillipines. They just continued bombing, and 70,000-man army, and they Except for different time zones, the then on to other fields. They began surrendered April 9, 1942. attacks would have been on the setting fires — all the fuel storage same day, though 12 hours apart, ... dropping bombs on them ... and Ex-POW Bulletin according to Wallace. Pearl Harbor ammunition dumps. The fire Sept/Oct 2011 was struck on Dec. 7, 1941, and the burned for about three days. 27 your stories, cont’d... times. If you fell behind and barley. The barley wasn’t too bad if couldn’t march, they killed you. you were hungry.” “When the surrender came, they And it didn’t get any better, either. sent some of the top brass to where “We went to a camp, Camp When the war ended, Wallace the (Japanese) were, and they O’Donnell. It was kind of a desert weighed 104 pounds, which was surrendered. We didn’t know if they itself. Nearly everybody had malaria down from his normal weight of would just go ahead and kill every and was down with it and 200 pounds. one of us,” Wallace said. starvation together. They buried over 100 boys every day that died He remembers of Japan’s “We walked down to the end of a after we got in that camp. surrender, “It took us a long time kind of boot deal on that island to get back to the States. The when we surrendered.” “When we got there, the (Japanese) military kept carrying us off searched us. You had to pull out somewhere else for a week or two Wallace remembers the Japanese everything you had in your pockets. until we got tightened up before we sent them to a prison called Camp Several of those guys with Japanese came home — they didn’t want us O’Donnell. coins they had gotten trading with to come home looking like we did.” the Filipinos for cigarettes or “That was what they called the something ... that battery I was in, Recently, U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce, death march. I know I was seven we lost three captains. They had who represents District 2 of New days getting there.” Japanese stuff on them. They Mexico, arranged a presentation of carried them off on a truck, stood the Bronze Star for Valor and a For the Americans and the Filipinos them on the graves, and shot them Presidential Unit Citation to Wallace it was 60 miles of horror in which into the graves. in celebration of his 98th birthday. thousands died. Some estimates Although he lives in Idalou now, he place the death toll as high as “They were really barbaric.” is the oldest Bataan Death March 10,000. survivor to have served from New He lost friends in the camp. “I tell Mexico. The Americans and Filipinos you what they got to doing — entered the march in emaciated Americans are crazy in a way — a But even the Bronze Star may not condition because of the short lot of those guys in the prison be the most memorable part of his rations, and they were given camps wanted a smoke so bad, they service in World War II. It likely was nothing to sustain them along the traded their rice off for a cigarette. the arrival of American troops. way. They didn’t do that too long until they were dead, because they were “Yeah, I was glad to see the troops Were they given water? already starved down. I had friends come. I didn’t figure I would.” that did that.” “No. No water!” Wallace said. “And if you ran out to get a canteen of Wallace was put on work details for water, they would bayonet you or much of the war. shoot you. A lot of our boys got Virgil Victor Wallace shot for running out. I never did run “I worked on the air fields in the Born: July 29, 1913. out, luckily.” Philippines, building airports. It was Grew up: On his father’s ranch all hand labor. Then they gradually in the Tatum, N.M., area. Wallace remembers he started the shipped them over to Japan. I was U.S. Army: Began his service in march with a canteen of water. “I shipped over there close to a year May 1941. didn’t use much water. We would before they surrendered. Overseas service: Philippine pass through cane fields, and a lot Islands. of us chewed on cane for the “I don’t know whether they fared Prisoner of war: In Philippines moisture in that.” any better or not — they got beat and Japan. up, starved to death, worked to Rank: Sergeant. After a silence, he said, “It was death.” Married: Millie Wallace, desperate times. It was desperate November 1956. Wallace worked in an open pit mine, Resident: Idalou. he remembers. Bronze Star medal: Presented Ex-POW Bulletin July 31. Sept/Oct 2011 “When they shipped you to Japan, 28 you didn’t get any rice; you got AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR VOLUNTARY FUNDING PROGRAM

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American Ex-Prisoners of War Membership 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, #40 Rates Arlington, TX 76010-5936 (817) 649-2979 voice (817)649-0109 fax Single Membership e-mail:[email protected] $40 Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2011 Husband & wife 30 $50 In memory of Paul A Bailey, by Robert & Nancy Ruetsch, Columbus contributions Marteal Bailey OH In memory of Ray Kneely, by Tacoma Chapter, WA Linda Imsenik Arthur B Gross, N Plainfield NJ In memory of Ruth Williams, by Ben & Lila Nienart, Lafayette NJ Gertrude Rogers C Norman Gustafson, Scotch Plains In memory of Alex Donaldson, by NJ Frank & Anne Kravetz Cape May Chapter, Pennsylvania In memory of Alex Donaldson, by Catherine Miller, LaJolla CA the Baldizar Family David Schneck, Bel Air MD Please send donations to: In memory of Alex Donaldson, by Donald Segel, Pacific Palisades CA National Headquarters, 3201 East Albert Walz Elizabeth Howlett, Radford VA Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, In memory of Cecil Hutt, by Evon Collins, Houston TX Arlington, TX 76010. Evelyn Hutt Francis X O’Connell, Naples FL In memory of Florian Wersal, by Fred Holcomb, Dunlap TN Checks must be made payable to Marvin & Josephine Roislansky In memory of Raymond Knisley, by AXPOW or American Ex-Prisoners In memory of James K Jones, by William Jeffers of War the Markham Woods Association James & Doris Nock, Salisbury MD In memory of James K Jones, by James Walters, Ashburn VA You can also make a donation with friends & associates at AAA Joseph Ornalik, Dearborn Hts MI a credit card (MasterCard or Visa). In memory of Jerry Granlund, by Kachadour Avedisian, Cranston RI Just call 817-649-2979. Thank Bob & Jan Knobel Lincoln & Mary Hanscom, you! In memory of John Richard Somersworth NH Vuchetich, by Nancy Vuchetich Louis DeSlatte, Tomball TX In memory of Judy Frasier, by the Nils & Anna Erickson, New Britain Highland Lakes Chapter CT In memory of Mario Manfredini, by Pittsburgh Area Chapter, PA THANK YOU! the Rocky Mountain Chapter Ralph Hogan, Metairie LA In memory of Stanley Corrington, Thank You! by Lorraine Corrington The Legacy of your love can live on after… thanks! LEGISLATIVE FUND In memory of Robert H Stumpf, by to the Tacoma the Department of Maryland An important way you can help Chapter for making In memory of Norma M Augerinos, ensure that the American Ex- by the Department of Maryland Prisoners of War is always a very generous there for returning POWs, their MEDSEARCH FUND families and their dependents donation of $1,000 In memory of Olie R Chamberlain, is through your will or living by the Department of Maryland trust. It’s very simple to make to AXPOW each In memory of Raymond Knisley, by a bequest to the American Ex- Suncoast Chapter, FL Prisoners of War. Just add the quarter! In memory of Shirley Rohrbaugh, by following to your will or living the Department of Maryland trust: “I give, devise and bequeath to the American Ex- GENERAL FUND VOLUNTARY FUNDING Prisoners of War, 3201 E. In honor of those who endured Clifford Armgard, Genoa WI Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, the trip with me from Luft IV to Department of Ohio Arlington, TX 76010, the sum Nurenberg locked in box cars for Donald Staight, Pacifica CA of $______or ______percent of 8 days, by Caesar Ricciardi Floyd Jarnagin, Midland TX the rest, residue and remain- In memory of Harry Miller, by Harry Hinkle, Barnesville OH der of my estate.” Indiana Dunes Chapter Henry Skubik, Massapequa NY In memory of Kenneth Olson, by John Gatens, Fair Lawn NJ Please take a few minutes of Robert & Shirley Field Leo Beaupre, Essex Junction VT your time to help. In memory of Kenneth Olson, by Leonard Fattic, Middleton IN Mary Ann Korbel Lorraine Corrington, Lynnwood WA Ex-POW Bulletin In memory of Mary Gould, by Loyce L Teller, Clayton WA Sept/Oct 2011 Kenneth Gould PNC Jim Cooper, Douglas AZ 31 United States Postal Service new members Statement of Ownership, National Headquarters Management, and Circulation 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010; (817) 649-2979 EX-POW BULLETIN Pub. # 0161- [email protected] 7451 filing date 10/11 Frequency: bi-monthly (6 issues annually) $40.00 annual subscription price, or as part of ANN THOMAS SCHMITT membership dues New Members Pub. Office: 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40, LOUISVILLE KY “Welcome Home” Arlington, Tarrant County, TX 76010 DAUGHTER OF WALTER P Clydie J. Morgan, Adjutant (817) 649-2979 THOMAS, ETO Headquarters: 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40, WILLIAM H ALDHIZER Arlington, TX 76010 Publisher: Maurice Sharp, 9716 54th Street CT LARGO FL JULIA LYNN LOLLAR West, University Place, WA 98467 SON OF PAUL M WILLS POINT TX Editor: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664 ALDHIZER, ETO, DAUGHTER OF JAMES Managing Editor: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View LOLLAR, NAM Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664 Owner: American Ex-Prisoners of War, 3201 E. RONNIE L CUPP Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010- DEBBIE BILLIE JOHN PENNINGTON 5396 Known bondholders, mortgagees, other security HAMPTON GA BERNICE holders: NONE SON OF BURLEN CLAYTON FARWELL TX Tax status: Purpose, function and non-profit status of this organization and the exempt status ‘BIM’ CUPP BELGIUM, 12/20/44 TO 12/ for federal income tax purposes has not changed 24/44 during the preceding 12 months. Publ. Title: EX-POW BULLETIN DAVID ALLEN ‘ TOWNE CASSIA GRETCHEN SMITH Circulation Data: Issue Aug/Sept 2011 WICHITA KS FORT WORTH TX Since last file date 10/10 SON OF PAUL EDWARD DAUGHTER OF TRUETT Average Single Issue Total copies printed: TOWNE, ETO FORD 13,424 13,016 Total paid/and or requested: 13,288 12,844 On July 5, 2011, Free distribution outside the mail: Marjorie 45 45 Total distribution: Paschal, 13,333 12,889 Adjutant of the Copies not distributed: Air Capital 91 127 Chapter, Total: 13,424 13,016 AXPOW, Percent paid/requested circulation: presented a 99% 99% check for $300 to Jan Haberly of the Lord’s Diner of Wichita. This Publication Statement of Ownership Form 3526 check is to aid in filed with the Postmaster, United States Postal the ongoing task Service, Arlington, TX. Copy held at National Headquarters, Arlington, TX of providing meals for the American Ex-Prisoners of War is a non-profit hungry. In the corporation, incorporated in Washington state, photo are Dr. October 11, 1949, recorded as Document No. 133762, Roll 1, Page 386-392. William Paschal, Treasurer, Jan Haberly, Director of Volunteers for the Lord’s Diner and Marjorie. In the past two months, this chapter has donated checks of $1,000 to the Ozark Harvesters of Missouri to help aid the survivors of the Joplin tornado and a check for $300 to the Ex-POW Bulletin Salvation Army to aid in the assistance for survivors of the Reading, Sept/Oct 2011 Kansas tornado. Commander John Mock of Eureka has stated “As former 32 prisoners of War, we know what it is like to go hungry.” taps

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

ABEL, Richard E, 88, of Terre Chapter, AXPOW. He leaves 1 son, Brumgarden, East Germany. He was Haute, IN died Jan. 11, 2011. He was 1 grandson, 3 great-grandsons and a life member of the Lake Superior a turret gunner in a B-24 with the 1 sister. Chapter, Wisconsin, AXPOW. He is 15th AF when he crashed in survived by his adopted family, Lisa Yugoslavia and was captured. BENNETT, Charles E, 88, of Cincin- Byrne and Lori Lundquist. Survivors include his wife, 3 sons, nati and Prescott, AZ passed away 3 daughters, 15 grandchildren and April 18, 2011. He served with the BRENNAN, James E, 91, of th nd 3 great-grandchildren. 8 AF during WWII; 392 BG based Pawtucket, RI died May 16, 2011. in England. He was shot down on He enlisted in the Army in 1940 and ALLEN, Henry E, member of the his first mission and held in Stalag served with the AAC in the Dakota West Chapter, AXPOW, 17B, then force-marched until lib- Philippines. He was a POW for more passed away recently. He served eration. Chuck is survived by his than 3 ½ years after surviving the with the 17th Airborne Div. and wife, Patty, 4 sons, 1 daughter, 7 Bataan Death March. Survivors fought in the Battle of the Bulge, grandchildren and 2 great-grand- include 4 children, 1 stepson, 4 where he was captured. Henry and children. grandchildren and 4 great- his wife raised 7 children, 15 grandchildren. grandchildren and 15 great- BIRCH, William Lee passed away grandchildren; he also is survived Aug. 6, 2011 in Brooklyn. During BREWER, Howard A, of Mercedes, by 2 brothers. WWII, while on a mission over TX passed away Feb. 11, 2009. He Germany, his B-17 was struck served in WWII with the 12th AF, th st ANDERSEN, Gerald, 87, of Elgin, IL down. He bailed out into the Baltic 320 BG, 441 BS; he was shot passed away July 18, 2011. He was Sea and was captured by a German down over Italy and held in Luft 1, captured while serving with the 36th submarine. He was sent to a prison Barth. He leaves his wife of 57 Div., 143rd Reg., “E” Co at the Rapido camp in Germany and after two years, Margie, 3 children, 9 River; he was held 15 months. Jerry unsuccessful escape attempts, grandchildren and 2 great- is survived by his loving wife of 54 succeeded with the third try. Lee grandchildren. years, Marylou, 2 children, 3 was active with the American Ex- grandchildren and 6 great- Prisoners of War and at the time of BROWN, Albert N, oldest survivor grandchildren. his death he was the Commander of the Bataan Death March died Aug of the New York Department. In this 14, 2011 in Nashville, IL. He was ANGELONI, Joseph Earl Sr., of capacity he organized and led a 105. Captured on April 9, 1942, he Alba, TX died April 20, 2011. He program for “Wounded Warriors”, endured the Bataan Death March was 87. During WWII, he served whereby six wounded warriors and and 3 ½ years of captivity before with the AAF. Joseph was a member their families would be flown to his liberation. Survivors include 2 of the East Texas Chapter #1, New York for what has become children, 12 grandchildren, 28 AXPOW. His wife, Evelyn, known as “A Taste of the Big great-grandchildren and 19 great- predeceased him; he leaves 1 Apple”. Up to his death, he had led great-grandchildren. daughter, 1 son, 1 brother, 2 sisters, a group of Ex POWs lecturing at 2 grandchildren and 3 great- New York Public Schools on BYERS, Thomas F, 90, of grandchildren. freedom and the price that was paid Summerville, SC passed away May for it. He leaves behind a wife, Mary 12, 2011. Tom was an AXPOW life BARRY, Francis (Frank) of Savan- Lou. member and member of the South nah, GA, passed away Aug. 13, 2011 Carolina Low Country Chapter. at age 89. He was a POW in Luft 4 BJORK, Raphael R, age 95 of During WWII, he was a nose gunner for 15 months. Ashland, WI passed away on Good on a B-24; he was shot down over Friday, Friday, April 2, 2010. He was Yugoslavia, captured and held at BEATTY, Earl V., of Southington, captured while serving with the 9th Luft 1, Barth. Tom is survived by OH died June 6, 2011. He was 92. Infantry Division, captured 17 his wife of 61 years, June. He was captured while serving with October 1944 to 3 May 1945. He the 15th AF, 485th BG, 829th BS and was held in Stalag XII, Limburg, Ex-POW Bulletin held until liberation. Earl was a Germany..Stalag II A, Sept/Oct 2011 member of the Mahoning Valley Neubrandenberg, Germany and 33 GERHOLD, Catherine, of was ordered to head south; two taps continued... Groveport, Ohio, widow of POW months later his unit was captured CHAMBERS, Jack Girald Sr., of Melvin Gerhold, died August 4, by the Japanese on a small island Midwest City, OK died July 15, 2011. Mel had been a prisoner in named Cuyo. He spent the 2011. He was 89. During WWII, he Luft 4. remaining duration of the war in served with the 8th AF; he was shot POW camps in the Philippines and down over Germany and held in GOULD, Mary, of Columbus, Ohio Japan. Ken is survived by two sons POW camps in Germany and died recently. She was the widow and four grandchildren. Poland. He leaves 1 son, 1 daughter, of POW Dwaine E Gould Luft 3 and 3 grandchildren, 1 brother, Camp 7A. She was a member of KNISLEY, Raymond O., 86 of numerous nieces, nephews and Ohio Chapter #1. Chiefland, Florida died July 15, friends. 2011. He was captured New Year’s GUERIN, Roland, of Greencastle, PA Eve 1944 in Bitche, France and held CULANAG, Luke G. passed away passed away May 11, 2011 at the until liberation. He was a life mem- July 17, 2011 at the age of 96. Luke age of 88. He was shot down over ber of AXPOW and Suncoast Chap- was in Co. “H” 45th Infantry Vienna while serving with the 15th ter Commander. He served 10 years Regiment of the Philippine Scouts AF, 460th BG, 760th BS. He was held as National Service Officer from before joining the US Army where in various camps including VII-A West Palm Beach. His wife of 65 he served for over 27 years. He until liberation. Survivors include years, Margery, survives him. He was a former prisoner of war and his loving wife, Florence. leaves 3 daughters, 2 sons, 11 Bataan Death March survivor. He is grandchildren and 16 great grand- survived by his loving wife Josefa, HARVEY, Evelyn Jeannette, 87, of children. three sons, and five grandchildren. Largo, FL died June 21, 2011. She Luke was a member of the Tacoma was a life member of AXPOW and LENNON, Joseph A, 86, of Chapter and a life member of the the wife of ex-POW William (USAF). Cummington, MA passed away July American Ex-Prisoners of War. In addition to her husband, Evelyn 26, 2011. He served with the 134th leaves 1 son, 1 daughter, 3 Inf. Reg., 35th Div. He was taken DEAL, David A, 85, member of the grandchildren, 2 great- prisoner at the Moselle River in Greater Greensboro Chapter, grandchildren and 6 siblings. France and was held in Stalag 317, AXPOW, died July 28, 2011. David Austria. Joseph is survived by his was captured in the Pacific while HOLLINGSHEAD, Sheldon, of Sac- beloved wife, Ruth and two serving with the Army; he was held ramento CA, died July 30, 2011. He children. in POW camps in Japan. Survivors was 92. He was captured in Italy include 2 daughters, 1 sister, 1 and spent 22 months as a POW in LINDSTROM, Robert D, “Lindy”, of brother, 5 grandchildren and 8 Germany in Stalag 2B. An AXPOW San Diego, CA died May 27, 2011. great-grandchildren. life member since 1981, he was also He was assigned to the 96th BG, a member of the 49er’s Chapter. He 339th BS, flying out of England. He DENNIS, George W, 88, of is survived by his wife, Barbara. was shot down and managed to Muttontown, NY passed away May evade capture for three months 3, 2011. He was shot down while JOBE, Weyman E, of Mobile AL before he was caught and sent to serving with the 8th AF, 381st BG and passed away July 1, 2011 at the age Luft 1, Barth. He leaves two loving held nearly one year. George served of 87. He served in he Army and daughters. as treasurer of the Nassau/Suffolk was captured in the Battle of the Chapter, AXPOW. He is survived by Bulge. Survivors include his wife, LOPEZ, Rose S, member of the Mile 5 children and 9 grandchildren. Edity, 1 son, 3 stepchildren, and High Chapter, AXPOW and resident several grandchildren and great- of Lakewood, CO passed away Dec. ENYEART, Loren R, of Canon City, grandchildren. 31, 2010. She was the widow of CO died April 2, 2011. During WWII, Rudolph (ex-POW captured on he served with the 134th Inf. Div., JONES, James K. “Ken”, 90, of Bataan, held 3 ½ years). Rose is Co “B”, landing at Omaha Beach in Casselberry, FL died August 14, survived by 6 sons, 1 daughter, 63 July, 1944. He was captured in 2011. During WWII, he served in the grandchildren, great-grandchildren December and held until liberation. AAC; his squadron was shipped to and great-great-grandchildren. Loren leaves his wife, Mary, 1 son, the Philippines one month prior to 3 grandchildren, 2 brothers and 1 the Japanese bombing of Pearl MANFREDINI, Mario F, member of sister. Harbor. After one month of the Rocky Mountain Chapter, attempting to service what AXPOW, died Aug 3, 2011, just 4 Ex-POW Bulletin remaining U.S. aircraft were days shy of his 90th birthday. He Sept/Oct 2011 available in the Philippines, his unit was a life member of AXPOW. 34 Central FL Chapter, AXPOW, with liberation. Bill is survived by his wife, taps continued... Lillian serving as treasurer. In Mary, 3 children, 7 grandchildren and During WWII, he served with the 390th addition to her husband, survivors 4 great-grandchildren. BG, 568th BS, 13D. He is survived by include several loving nieces, 2 daughters, 1 son, 1 sister, 4 nephews and their families. ROSE, Samuel Dawson, 91, passed grandchildren and 4 great- away June 2, 2011. He was captured grandchildren. MORRIS, Charles T, 87, of over Italy flying out of Libya with the Newburgh, NY passed away Jan 8, 514th BS, 376th BG. He was held by MARINO, Vincent W, of Harrah, OK 2011. During WWII, he served in the the Italians, then shipped north to died Dec. 15, 2010 at the age of 88. Mine Clearance Division; he was Luft III. Sam leaves his wife, Ruth and He was shot down over Germany and captured in the Battle of the Bulge. two sons. was a POW in Stalag Lufts IV and VI Charles was a member of the Hudson for 9 months. Survivors include his Valley Chapter, AXPOW. He leaves his SALAZER, Sam D, 85, of Grand wife of 64 years, Rosalie, 1 son, 3 loving wife, Rose, 2 daughters, 2 Junction, CO died March 9, 2011. daughters and 6 grandchildren. sons, 7 grandchildren, 8 great- During WWII, he served with the 42nd grandchildren, 1 brother and several Rainbow Division. He was captured McBRIEN, John E, 88, of Portland, CT nieces and nephews. and held in Stalags 4B and 4D until died June 26, 2011. He was a top liberation. He leaves his loving wife, turret gunner on B-17s with the 368th NASLUND, Charles Edward, 88, of Ida, 2 sons, 1 daughter, 1 sister, 11 BG, 8th AF. He was shot down over Whittier, CA passed away Aug. 13, grandchildren and 8 great- Kassel, Germany and held at Stalag 2011. He served with the 4th Marines grandchildren. Luft IV. John was a life member of in WWII and was taken prisoner when the CT Chapter, AXPOW. He is Corregidor was surrendered to the SEWARD, William R, of Boynton survived by his wife, Mary, 3 sons and Japanese. He was held on the “Hell Beach, FL died May 22, 2011. He was 5 grandchildren. Ship” Housken Maru and spent 40 serving on the USS Pope 225 in the months in several POW camps: Pacific when his ship was sunk on McINTYRE, Philip D, passed away Bilibid, Cabanatuan Camp 3, Camp March 1, 1942 and he was captured April 28, 2011 just two months away 1, Clark Field, Toroku Camp in by the Japanese. He spent the next 3 from his 95th birthday. He and his Taiwan, Kobe, Japan and Maibara ½ years in a prison camp at Makassar loving wife, Laura had been together until liberation. He leaves behind his on the island of Celebes, NEI. Bill was for 47 years, living in Hardwick MA. bride of 65 years, Ellen, 3 sons, 1 predeceased by his wife, Sally. He is Philip was captured during WWII; his daughter, 6 grandchildren and 8 survived by 1 daughter, 2 experience made him a remarkable great-grandchildren. grandchildren and 5 great- advocate for the welfare of American grandchildren. fighting men. He was a faithful NUGENT, Maude R (Ruth), age 88, volunteer at the VA Hospital in Leeds of Panama City, FL died June 28. SLETTA, Jeanne Virginia, spouse of for almost 40 years. Philip had served 2011. She was preceded in death by Lester (ex-POW who died in 2005), all the officer positions in the her husband, Daniel, who was a POW passed away July 25, 2011. She was Western MA Chapter and the Dept. of the Japanese during WWII. She was a member of the Rocky Mountain of Massachusetts, AXPOW. He is a long-time member of the Chapter, AXPOW. Survivors include survived by his beloved wife, 2 sons, Hutchison-Poplawski Chapter, one son and his family. 1 daughter, 2 stepsons, 4 AXPOW. Ruth is survived by one grandchildren and 1 great- daughter. SPEED, Worth M, of Wylie, Texas died granddaughter. He will be missed by July 20, 2011. He served in the 320 everyone who knew him. POTARO, Claire Marie, 89, of BG and was held in Oflag 13B, and Clarksburg, WV passed away Aug. 6, served 33 years in the Air Force. A McMANES, Paul E, of Whitehall, Ohio 2011. She was an active long-time former member of the Dallas died August 21, 2011. He served as a member of the Barb-Wire Metroplex Chapter, he is survived by Radio Gunner in the Air Corps in the Mountaineers Chapter #1, AXPOW. his wife of 66 years, Mary Lou. ETO, 449th BG. He was held in Stalag Surviving are her loving husband of 17B. He is survived by four 68 years, Benjamin, 3 daughters, 3 STOVEL, Ernest I, of Fraser, MI daughters, 10 grandchildren and 16 sons, 11 grandchildren, 5 great- passed away June 26, 2011. He was great grandchildren. grandchildren and many nieces and 89. Ernest was captured while serv- nephews. ing in the Army during WWII. He was MORETTI, Lillian T, of Gainesville, past commander and founding mem- FL died June 21, 2011. She was the ROHRBACHER, William G, member ber of the Wolverine Chapter, beloved wife of ex-POW Domenick of the Rochester Chapter, AXPOW, AXPOW. He leaves his devoted wife, for 49 years. He served with the 28th died July 24, 2010 at the age of 88. Helen, 1 daughter, 1 son and 10 Combat Engineers and was captured th He was a member of the 511 BS, Ex-POW Bulletin in the Battle of the Bulge. Lillian and 351st BG; he was shot down over Domenick were members of the W. Berlin and held in Luft III until Sept/Oct 2011 35 1, South Compound. He later served WALDRON, Ben David, 89, of taps continued... in Korea and Vietnam. Survivors in- Orangevale, CA died Aug. 28, 2011. grandchildren. He will be deeply clude his wife of 62 years, Catherine, During WWII he served with the 60th missed. 5 children, 3 grandchildren and 5 CAC Battery “C”, Anti-Aircraft. He great-grandchildren. was captured on Corregidor and held SWANEY, Mary, of Youngstown, for 3 ½ years by the Japanese. He Ohio, age 85, died on May 29th. af- VANOUS, Elwyn Ove, of Mandan, belonged to the 49er’s Chapter, ter a 15 year struggle with Parkinsons ND died Jan. 7, 2011. He was 94. He AXPOW. He is survived by his wife, disease. A life member of the Ohio served in the Army during WWII and Geraldine. Steel Valley Chapter and the wife of was captured in Africa. He escaped the Ohio State Dept. Commander, after 1 year’s imprisonment in Italy. WILSON, Harriet of Naples, Fl died Norman Swaney, who had served in Elwyn leaves his wife of 41 years, June 26, 2011. Harriet was a charter Europe in WWII with the famous 101st Helen, 1 daughter, 2 sons and 2 step- member of the Collier Chapter and a Airborne Div. She leaves her hus- children. life member of the organization. She band, 2 sons, 2 grandsons and 4 great was the life-companion of Don grand daughters. VUCHETICH, John R, of Park Falls, Tallon, past Commander of Collier WI passed away July 10, 2011. He was Chapter and a National Service TIERNEY, Francis “Sam”, 89, of a member of the 100th BG, 351st BS, Officer and will be sadly missed by Simsbury, CT died March 23, 2011. 8th AF, flying out of Thorpe Abbots, all. He was bombardier/navigator with England. His B-17, “She-Hasta” was the 384th BG, 544th BS, 8th AF. Sam shot down; after four days his life ZALUZNY, WALTER, 86, of Vernon, was shot down over Germany and raft washed up on the beach in the VT, passed away July 28, 2011. He was a POW at Stalag Luft III, VIIA and Netherlands and he was captured. was a life member of Vermont Chap- XIIID. He was a life member of CT John was held in Luft IV, then force- ter #1, AXPOW. He enlisted June 7, Chapter, AXPOW. Sam’s wife, Claire, marched across Germany until libera- 1944 and was assigned to the U. S. predeceased him; he leaves 1 daugh- tion. His loving wife of 55 years, Army’s 143rd Infantry, 36 Div, Co. K. ter, 1 son and their families. Nancy, survives him; he is also sur- He battled first in Italy then in France vived by 4 children, 8 grandchildren, where he was captured by the Ger- TOPPING, William H, 90, of St. Pe- 2 ½ great-grandchildren, 1 sister, 1 mans and held prisoner for 77 days. ters, MO passed away July 4, 2011. brother and a large extended family. He was predeceased by his wife, Julia, He was captured while serving with and leaves a son, a daughter her hus- the 49th BG, 67th BS and held in Luft band, grandchildren, and a brother.

national chaplain The Israelites had been slaves in Every day that God gives me to live, Egypt. God chose Moses to lead there is something He wants me to them out of Egypt and across a vast do. I need to be quiet and listen to desert but he died before they got His voice. to the Jordan River which they would have to cross to get to the land that God had promised them. Food for thought: “Count your God chose Joshua to be their leader. blessings,” we’re often told — He was a good leader. He led the but what good does that do us? people across the Jordan River and Plenty, according to Robert into the Promised Land. Joshua did Emmons, the world’s leading PNC Gerald Harvey not plan how to do this. It was the scientific expert on gratitude. Lord’s plan and Joshua obeyed God. After a decade of research, Dr. Joshua 4:14 Emmons has found that people “ and the LORD lifted up If we want to be admired and re- who practice gratitude have Joshua in the sight of all Israel; spected; if we want to be leaders of stronger immune systems, feel and they respected him and God’s people today in our church, happier and more optimistic, followed him as they had re- in our community, or in our AXPOW and are more generous and compassionate. Dr. Emmons spected and followed Moses all organization, we need to be known as people who do not do what we explores why gratitude does us the days of his life.” want to do. We need to be known so much good, brings to light the obstacles to practicing Ex-POW Bulletin as people who keep God’s Com- mandments and do what God wants gratitude, and offers steps to Sept/Oct 2011 us to do. leading a more grateful life. 36 Ex-POW Bulletin ALL CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE TO AXPOW OR Sept/Oct 2011 AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR 37

The Battle for Snow Mountain 50/50 drawing by Donald Young March 2011 The Battle for Snow Mountain is a comic novel - based on Young’s Arlington, Texas experience - which gives a vivid picture of the life of two GI’s in a German prison camp, after their capture in The Battle of the Bulge, 1st Place Agnes Akullian $339.60 1944. The story deals with their odd love affairs at home, their Boca Raton, FL war experiences, accidental capture, escape from a POW camp, 2nd Place William D Williams $254.70 and return to Paris and freedom. Bel Air, MD 3rd Place Dennis Adamscheck $169.80 “Ive never read a Cloquet, MN more powerful Donated back to AXPOW WWII novel than 4th Place Frank Gailer, Jr. $118.75 The Battle for San Antonio, TX Snow Mountain.” These drawings help raise money needed for our operating ex- (John Dizikes, penses. They allow our members to participate in a very worth- former professor while project, while giving them a chance to win. 50% of the at the University donations will be given to the General Fund and the other 50% of California, Santa Cruz.) are awarded as prizes. The amounts are determined after all “Young’s novel is an instant war classic, much like Vonnegut’s donations are received. You do not have to be present to win. Slaughter House Five and Heller’s Catch 22” (Wallace Wood, Please make copies of the tickets on the other side and offer book reviewer) them to your Chapter members, family and friends. We are ask- ing $5.00 for 6 tickets. These donations are not tax deductible. The Battle for Snow Mountain by Donald Young Fill out the tickets and send them and your donations to: may be purchased from Pocol Press, 6023 Pocol Drive, Clifton, National Headquarters ~ 50/50 Drawing VA 20124 (1-703-830-5862). It can also be ordered at 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, #40 www.amazon.com (ISBN 978-1-929763-48-1) $17.95$17.95$17.95 Arlington, TX 76010-5396

The 106th Infantry Division Association Organized at Camp Lucky Strike 1945 active since 1946

If you are a former 106th Infantry Division vet, were attached to the 106th,a relative of a 106th veteran, you are eligible for membership in the Association. Annual Dues $10.00

The CUB Magazine is published three times per year. Published since 1946. Annual Reunions held yearly since 1947.

Contact: Lyle Beeth, Membership Chairman 2004 Golf Manor Road Valico, FL 33594-7288 (813) 689-9621; fax: (813) 655-8952 Toll Free (888) 644-8952 [email protected] Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2011 39 American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______

Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Thank you for your support. (3/12) Thank you for your support. (3/12) American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______

Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Thank you for your support. (3/12) Thank you for your support. (3/12) American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- Thank you for your support. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Ex-POW Bulletin (3/12) Thank you for your support. (3/12) Sept/Oct 2011 40 The Quartermaster’s Shop order on page 42

Jeweled Flag You love your country. Our Austrian Crystal Flag and USA pins are beatuiful ways to show your patriotism. They make wonderful gifts ~ for yourself or someone you love. American Flag ~ AXPOW Pocket Knife $30.00 plus s/h 11 function pocket knife includes a stainless steel Bronze Grave knife, screwdrivers and Medallion much more! AXPOW with AXPOW LOGO imprint is protected by an The Medallion is 4", Bronze/ epoxy dome, lasting a Brown with Lacquer, weighs lifetime. Rubber grip approximately 1lb 4oz, ensures easy containing 84% copper, handling...individually balance in other metals. The gift boxed...folded knife hardware for mounting is measures 3 3/4”x1” included in each packet. $13.00 plus s/h check with your local cemetery before ordering to see if medallions are AXPOW Vests! permitted. The uniform of the American Ex- $75.00 plus s/h/i POWs consists of the military cap and the vest. These vests ($15.00 for one; $20.00 for are custom-made with your name on the front, and your two or more) chapter and logo shield on the back. Orders take approxi- mately six weeks to complete. $55.00 each includes shipping/handling For pins, vest guards and other items to “dress up” your vest, or- der from the merchandise page.

AXPOW Flashlights Bright safety light when you need it! AXPOW logo in color...individually Ex-POW Bulletin gift-boxed. Sept/Oct 2011 $12.00 plus s/h 41 Name Badge Order Form AXPOW Vest Order Form (for members only) (For members only) Actual size of badge is Name______size of a credit card Address______

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

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

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

For orders up to 4.00, add $3.00; For orders 4.01 to 7.99, add $4.00; For orders 8.00 to 25.00, Shipping/Handling/Insurance: add $8.00, For orders 25.01 to 49.99, add $13.00; For orders 50.00 to 99.99, add $15.00 For orders over 100.00, add $20.00 Checks/Money Order/Credit Card Accepted. Total: $ For credit card orders: Card # ______Expiration: ______(Check one) Master Card ______Visa______Name ______MAIL TO: Address ______AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR City, State, Zip ______3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Phone ______Arlington, Texas 76010-5396 817-649-2979 [email protected] Texas State Convention, Abilene - 2011 AXPOW Flashlights Bright safety light when you need it! AXPOW logo in color...individually gift-boxed.

$12.00 plus s/h

Thank you for supporting the American Ex-POWS with your purchases of Na- tional Merchandise. change of address form Include your mailing label for address change or inquiry. If you are receiving duplicate copies, please send both labels. If moving, please give us your new address in the space provided. Subscription Rates -- non members $40.00 per year Foreign subscriptions $50.00 per year Now accepting MasterCard/Visa Please print: All orders for products sold by Name______AXPOW National Organization, Address______including dues/subscriptions City/State/Zip______should be mailed to: Phone ( )______American Ex-Prisoners of War Please allow 4 weeks to make address corrections. National Headquarters 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Mail to: National Headquarters, AXPOW, 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010-5396 (817) 649-2979/ (817) 649-0109 fax Or fax: (817) 649-0109 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] No collect calls, please