September-October 2012

EX-POW BULLETIN the official voice of the American Ex-Prisoners of War Volume 69 www .axpo w .or g Number 9/10

September/October 2012

We exist to help those who cannot help themselves

Convention News Sept. 21, 2012. Inside! National POW/MIA Recognition Day National Convention 2012 ~ Arlington, Texas table of contents September/October 2012 officers/directors 4 commander/HQ 5 NSO 6 For AXPOW National Service Officers: medsearch 7 VA FORM 21-22 has been updated andersonville 11 The new form: “APPOINTMENT OF VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATION AS CLAIMANT’S REPRESENTATIVE” must be used for all new claims. To namPOW 12 get copies, go to: http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21-22-ARE.pdf. outreach 13 There are also copies available at National Headquarters. Joint Committee 14 pow-mia 15 How old are you? vavs 16 James Morrison of Cocoa, FL wrote that he was captured 2/16/45 at the events, info, looking for 17 age of 19 years, 1-1/2 months old. That puts him at 87 now. If you’re younger, news 18 served in the Army or Air Force in Germany, he’d like to know. The only one voluntary funding 30 we know is PNC John Edwards, born in October, 1926. Here’s his information: contributions 31 James Morrison, 4022 Driftwood Pl., Cocoa, FL 32926. new members 32 taps 33 Battle of Midway ~ 70th anniversary raffle 39 The Battle of Midway is considered by many to be the most important quartermaster 42 naval battle of the Pacific Campaign during World War 2. The battle occurred between June 4th and 7th, 1942 approximately six months after the Japanese surprise attack against Pearl Harbor. During the battle, the U.S. Navy would decisively defeat the Imperial Navy and more importantly, in- flict damage to the point the Japanese fleet would not recover from dur- Publisher ing the war PNC Maurice Sharp 9716 54th Street CT West Calendar Photo Research Group University Place, WA 98467-1118 We’ve finally managed to put together a group of volunteers (most of whom (253) 565-0444 don’t know what they gotten themselves into) to procure, scan and archival [email protected] photographs for future use in AXPOW calendars/Bulletins/etc. Alice Booher will head up the team, which includes your editor, Rhonda Cornum, Paul Editor Galanti, Giles Norrington and James Terry. After scanning, photos will be Cheryl Cerbone returned to their owners. So if anyone out there has some great pictures, let 23 Cove View Drive us know. South Yarmouth, MA 02664 (508) 394-5250 AARP Driver Safety (508) 760-2008 fax In November, 2012, AARP is again offering a national safety campaign Vet- [email protected] erans Promotion in which the AARP Driver Safety classroom course is offered free to veterans and their families. You save 50% on the cost of the Intrepid Staff Reporter on-line course. To locate a classroom course near you, call 866-238-0294 or visit www.aarp.org/veterans. To sign up for the on-line course, visit Alice A Booher www.aarpdriversafety.org and enter the promo code “VETERANS”. Deadline for the Nov/Dec 2012 EMAIL Address issue is Oct. 1, 2012. The email address for the Joint Strategic Planning & NOK Committees is: [email protected]. Please send all materials to the editor at the above address. Cover: Sept. 21, 2012. National POW/MIA Recognition Day

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 nonprofit 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. © 2012 American Ex-Prisoners of War

Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2012 3 axpow officers & directors 2012-2013 National Headquarters - Clydie J. Morgan, Adjutant/Treasurer 3201 E. Pioneer Pkwy, #40, Arlington, TX 76010 (817) 649-2979 (817) 649-0109 fax [email protected] Officers Directors National Commander North East Region Mid-Central Region Charles Susino Franklin R. Koehler Becky Fisher 136 Jefferson Street 243 Torrey Pines Dr. 6319 Whims Rd. Metuchen, NJ 08840 Toms River, NJ 08757 Canal Winchester, OH 43110 (732) 549-5775 phone & fax (732) 244-4629; (732) 505-8702 fax 614-834-7214 [email protected] [email protected] National Sr Vice Commander Laura McIntyre Deanie Schmidt James L. Lollar PO Box 475 1001 Parkview Blvd. #316 292 VZ CR 3727 Hardwick, MA 01037 Columbus, OH 43219 Wills Point, TX 75169 (413) 477-8260 (413) 477-0172 fax (614) 372-0788 (903) 560-1734; (903) 560-1705 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] East Central Region National Judge Advocate Judy Lee South Central Region David Drummond PO Box 248 PNC Morris Barker 1 Crane Court Madisonville, TN 37354 710 Chapel View Manalapan, NJ 07726 (423) 442-3223; (423) 442-4702 fax Waco, TX 76712 (732) 446-4198 [email protected] (254) 732-5640 [email protected] [email protected] Southeast Region National Chaplain Edward L. DeMent Ben Garrido PNC Gerald Harvey 8735 Doral Oaks Dr., #1617 6813 W 60th Street 709 Baptist Home Lane Temple Terrace, FL 33617 Tulsa OK 74107 (951) 313-9838 Chillocothe MO 64601 (813) 985-3783 [email protected] 660-646-4301 [email protected]

Benny Rayborn Jr. Vice Commanders Northwest Region Wm “Bill” Jeffers - 459 Grady Brown Rd Lumberton MS 39455 Bonnie Sharp Eastern Zone (601) 466-1951 9716 54th Street CT West 3522 Millbrook Way Cr [email protected] University Place, WA 98467-1118 Greenacres, FL 33463 (253) 565-0444 (561) 969-6036 North Central Region [email protected] [email protected] John W Clark 1201 S Johnmeyer Ln Pam Warner Eslinger - Columbia MO 65203 Southwest Region Central Zone (573) 445-3621 Alice Gollin PO Box 117 [email protected] 37231 Turnberry Isle Hammon, OK 73650 Palm Desert, CA 92211 (580) 473-2783 David Claypool (760) 610-1271;(760) 610-1752 fax [email protected] PO Box 38 [email protected] Hampton MN 55031 Milton “Skip” Moore - (612) 245-2247 Lewis “Lew” Sleeper Western Zone [email protected] 6636 E Villa Dorado 2965 Sierra Bermeja Tucson, AZ 85715 Sierra Vista, AZ 85650 (520) 751-9628 Voice (520) 459-7295; (520) 533-3757 fax Senior Director (520) 490-1082 Cell [email protected] Carroll Bogard, Ph.D [email protected] 275 N Taft #116 Mason City IA 50401 Committee addresses appear (641) 424-4870 – Voice with their columns (641) 512-4543 - Cell illness. I am very grateful for their love and support. news For the coming year, my objec- from tive is to continually improve our ability to serve the veterans who deserve and need our hq help, and to use what influence The convention was terrific. we have as an organization on Those who attended had a great policymakers in Washington DC time. We already have calls for and elsewhere to insure our next year! Convention dates will veterans are treated fairly. be the same week as this year - Through the collective efforts of last week in June, 2013 - same everyone in the POW organiza- town, same hotel. tion, we can serve our veterans who have served our country The Midyear Board meeting will National Commander and earned these basic benefits. be Saturday, November 3 at the Charles Susino, Jr. Hilton Arlington. The rates are In closing, I want to thank the $105 per night and includes a I want to thank you for support- PNCs for their service to our or- complementary buffet breakfast. ing me through the years. Work- ganization and their efforts to There will be a dinner on Satur- ing my way through the chairs, I preserve the focus consistent day to relax and unwind. The cost have had the opportunity to meet with our motto and charter. I will be around $25. Please come and many of you. I hope you will feel can only hope that one day I will give your input on the free to contact me with any ideas be viewed positively among that organization’s business. All meet- you have for the future of AXPOW. accomplished group of leaders. ings are open to the membership and all are welcome. Serving as your commander is a As those of you who attended the heavy responsibility. I take that 2012 Convention know, it was a The 2013 AXPOW Calendar is out! responsibility very seriously. good one. Our members and This year’s theme is the 40th Because of aging and the loss of their families took advantage of Anniversary of the release of members, we have many ob- the variety of different places to POWs from the Vietnam War; the stacles to overcome this year. I visit; our delegates attended the 60th Anniversary of the release have goals that I want to work to- meetings and took care of busi- of POWs from the Korean War. ward during my year; I spoke ness. I hope to see you in June, This year, for the first time, all about them the night of my in- 2013 back in Arlington, Texas. of the design work was done installation at the National Conven- house, saving us a lot of money. tion. We hope you like it, and we hope you make generous donations Good evening, for it. The profit from all of our direct mail programs go directly I feel honored and privileged to UMB Credit Card to support AXPOW programs that serve as the National Com- Every time a member – or benefit you. We’ve been asked mander representing the men member’s family or friends – about captions for the photos. We and women who served our signs up for the new UMB didn’t have them for most, the country and suffered as prison- credit card (which features our others we thought you’d think ers of war. As Commander, my marching men on the face), reminded you of your own camp energies will be true to the AXPOW receives $50.00. That’s liberations. organization’s slogan “to help like making a $50 donation to those who cannot help them- the organization when you Annual memberships will become selves”. For that, we include the sign up. We also get a percent- due in December. Go ahead and veterans and their families. age of every dollar spent if renew to make sure you don’t miss you use the card each month. any issues of The Bulletin! I am pleased to have with me today, Lillian, my lovely wife, So won’t you take a few min- Clydie, Marsha, Donna my daughter Diane and her utes and apply for this new Ex-POW Bulletin husband, Ted. My son, Charles card today? and his wife Celeste were not Sept/Oct 2012 able to attend due to Celeste’s 5 (DBQs) are downloadable forms cre- sion. Also, providers treating Veter- nso ated for Veterans’ use in the evalua- ans who are familiar with their condition process for disability benefits. tions can speed the process by com- DBQs will help speed the processing pleting DBQs for their patients. of Veterans’ disability compensation and pension claims. DBQs allow Vet- Q: How do DBQs help with VA’s Fully erans and Servicemembers to have Developed Claims (FDC) Program? more control over the disability A: DBQs are valuable for Fully Devel- claims process by giving them the oped Claims processing because they option of visiting a primary care pro- provide medical information that is vider in their community, at their ex- directly relevant to determining a dis- pense, instead of completing an evalu- ability rating, which helps ensure the ation at a Department of Veterans Af- VA’s ratings specialists have precisely fairs (VA) facility. The streamlined the information they need to start pro- forms use check boxes and standard- cessing the claim. Ruth Powell, Director - NSO ized language so that the disability rating can be made accurately and Q: Will VA reimburse providers’ ex- 191 Florence Road quickly. amination costs or travel costs to the Waltham, MA 02453 Veteran for DBQ-related actions? 781-899-0726 Q: Why were DBQs developed? A: No. This information is printed on A: DBQs were developed to stream- the DBQ forms and appears on the line the collection of necessary medi- Internet website where DBQs are pub- Disability Benefits cal evidence for the purpose of pro- licly available. Veterans have the op- cessing Veterans’ claims. DBQs pro- tion to take a DBQ to their private Questionnaires vide Veterans with an improved means provider or Veterans Health Adminis- to submit medical evidence to sup- tration (VHA) clinician for completion, With Disability Benefits Question- port their claims. but Veteran are responsible for any naires (DBQs) Veterans now have more related co-pay or costs, including control over the disability claims pro- Q: Who is authorized to complete a costs for travel or testing. (A Veteran cess. Veterans have the option of vis- DBQ? is always entitled to an examination iting a private health care provider A: Providers with active medical li- and any required testing at no charge instead of a VA facility to complete censes must sign and attest to a medi- for a scheduled compensation ap- their disability evaluation form. cal condition on completed DBQs. pointment that has been requested by The DBQ can be completed either by: VBA.) Asking your primary care pro- Veterans can have their providers fill Veterans’ private treatment providers, vider to complete a DBQ is no differ- out any of the more than 80 DBQs or Veterans Health Administration ent than asking your provider to write that are appropriate for their condi- (VHA) clinicians. a letter or note providing medical evi- tions and submit them to us. It’s that dence of a medical condition in sup- easy! Q: How many medical conditions are port of a claim. The same co-pay rules covered by DBQs? apply equally to both situations. A: More than 80 DBQs cover a full DBQs also help support VA’s Fully range of medical conditions. While Developed Claims (FDC) Program. some DBQs are specific to a single Q: How can you get further answers DBQs are valuable for claims process- condition (for example: hypertension, to DBQ questions? ing because they provide medical in- arthritis, and prostate cancer), most A: VA has a national call center avail- formation that is directly relevant to forms can be used for several related able to assist at (800) 827-1000. determining a disability rating. When conditions (for example: heart condi- submitted with a fully developed tions, kidney conditions, endocrine Q: Are DBQs mandatory? claim, DBQs ensure the VA’s ratings conditions). Please see the extensive A: No. Use of DBQs is not mandatory. specialists have precisely the infor- list of conditions on the VA website mation they need to start processing at: http://benefits.va.gov/ Q: How do you submit completed the claim. disabilityexams. DBQs to VA? A: Veterans and/or their physicians FAQS: Q: Where can you find DBQs? may mail or securely fax completed A: DBQs can be viewed on the VA DBQs to the VA Regional Office han- website at: http://benefits.va.gov/ dling the Veteran’s claim. To find mail- Q: What are Disability Benefits Ques- disabilityexams ing addresses, visit the VBA website tionnaires (DBQ)? at: www2.va.gov/directory/guide/ A: Disability Benefits Questionnaires Q: What are the benefits of using Allstate_flsh.asp To find fax numbers, DBQs? visit the VA website at http:// A: DBQs simplify the documentation benefits.va.gov/transformation/ Ex-POW Bulletin of medical conditions. By completing disabilityexams. Completed DBQs may Sept/Oct 2012 check-the-box DBQs rather than gen- also be submitted directly to the VA erating long narrative summaries, it Regional Office. 6 is anticipated that VBA will reduce the time it takes to make a claims deci- pow medsearch 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40 Marsha Coke, Chairman Arlington, TX 76010 e-mail: [email protected] (817) 649-2979

or unsteady, or as if they or their Ménière’s Disease Aging & Balance surroundings were in motion. Ménière’s disease is a balance dis- Disturbances of the inner ear are order that causes a person to ex- a common cause. About Balance Problems perience Vertigo, the feeling that you or • vertigo the things around you are spin- • hearing loss that comes Have you ever felt dizzy, light- ning, is also a common symp- and goes headed, or as if the room were tom. • tinnitus, which is a ring- spinning around you? These can ing or roaring in the ears be very troublesome sensations. Falls and fall-related injuries, • a feeling of fullness in the If the feeling happens often, it such as hip fracture, can have a ear. could be a sign of a balance prob- serious impact on an older lem. Balance problems are person’s life. If you fall, it could It affects adults of any age. The among the most common rea- limit your activities or make it cause is unknown. sons that older adults seek help impossible to live independently. from a doctor. Many people often become more There are many ways to treat bal- isolated after a fall. ance disorders. Treatments vary In 2008, an estimated 14.8 percent depending on the cause. See your of American adults (33.4 million) According to the Centers for Dis- doctor if you are experiencing had a balance or dizziness prob- ease Control and Prevention, dizziness, vertigo, or other problem during the past year. roughly more than one-third of lems with your balance. adults ages 65 years and older fall Why Good Balance is Important each year. Among older adults, Causes and Prevention Having good balance means be- falls are the leading cause of in- ing able to control and maintain jury-related deaths. your body’s position, whether People are more likely to have problems with balance as they you are moving or remaining BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Posi- still. An intact sense of balance get older. But age is not the only tional Vertigo) reason these problems occur; helps you There are many types of balance • walk without staggering there are other causes, too. In disorders. One of the most com- some cases, you can help reduce • get up from a chair with- mon is benign paroxysmal posi- out falling tional vertigo, or BPPV. In BPPV, • climb stairs without trip- you experience a brief, intense ping feeling of vertigo when you • bend over without falling change the position of your head, such as when rolling over to the The part of the inner ear respon- left or right, upon getting out of sible for balance is the labyrinth. bed, or when looking for an ob- To maintain your body’s posi- ject on a high or low shelf. BPPV tion, the labyrinth interacts with is more likely to occur in adults other systems in the body, such aged 60 and older, but can also as the eyes, bones and joints. occur in younger people.

Good balance is important to In BPPV, small calcium particles help you get around, stay inde- in the inner ear become displaced pendent, and carry out daily and hit the inner ear balance sen- activities. sors, causing dizziness. The reason they become displaced is not When People Have Problems known; the cause may be an in- with Balance ner ear infection, head injury, or Ex-POW Bulletin As they get older, many people aging. experience problems with their Sept/Oct 2012 sense of balance. They feel dizzy 7 will help you get the medication headed” to describe what they are medsearch continued... you need while trying to reduce feeling. For some people, the feel- unwanted side effects. ing can be brief, while for others, your risk for certain balance it can last a long time, disrupt- problems. Manage Balance Problems with ing their daily lives. Diet and Lifestyle Problems in the Inner Ear and Your diet and lifestyle can help Finding the Correct Diagnosis Other Health Issues you manage certain balance-re- Balance disorders are serious. Some balance disorders are lated problems. For example, Sometimes they are a sign of caused by problems in the inner Ménière’s disease, which causes other health problems, such as ear. Others may involve another vertigo and other balance and those affecting the brain, the part of the body, such as the hearing problems, is linked to a heart, or circulation of the blood. brain or the heart. Aging, infec- change in the volume of fluid in They are also a common cause of tions, head injury, certain medi- the inner ear falls and fall-related injuries in cines, or problems with blood cir- older people. For these reasons, culation may result in a balance By eating low-salt (low-sodium) or it is important to have a balance problem. salt-free foods, and steering clear disorder diagnosed and treated as of caffeine and alcohol, you can soon as possible. Why Am I Dizzy? make Ménière’s disease symp- Upper respiratory infections and toms less severe. Balance prob- Questions to Ask Yourself other viral infections, and, less lems due to high blood pressure If you answer “yes” to any of these commonly, bacterial infections, can be managed by eating less questions, you should discuss can lead to labyrinthitis. salt (less sodium), maintaining a the symptom with your doctor. healthy weight, and exercising. • Do I feel unsteady? Diseases of the circulatory sys- • Do I feel as if the room is tem, such as stroke, can cause Prevent Ear Infections spinning around me? dizziness and other balance prob- The ear infection called otitis • Do I feel as if I’m moving lems. Smoking and diabetes can media is common in children, when I know I’m standing or sit- increase the risk of stroke. Low but adults can get it too. You can ting still? blood pressure can also cause help prevent otitis media by • Do I lose my balance and dizziness. washing your hands frequently. fall? Also, talk to your doctor about • Do I feel as if I’m falling? Problems Caused by Medications getting a yearly flu shot to stave • Do I feel light-headed, or Balance problems can also result off flu-related ear infections. If as if I might faint? from taking certain medications. you still get an ear infection, see • Does my vision become For example, some medicines, a doctor immediately before it blurred? such as those that help lower becomes more serious. • Do I ever feel disoriented, blood pressure, can make a per- losing my sense of time, place, son feel dizzy. Symptoms and Diagnosis or identity? Ototoxic drugs are medicines that damage the inner ear. Some- Some people may have a balance Questions to Ask Your Doctor times the damage lasts only as problem without realizing it. If you think that you have a bal- long as you take the drug; other Others might think they have a ance disorder, you should sched- times it is permanent. Some an- problem, but are too embar- ule an appointment with your tibiotics are ototoxic. If your rassed to tell their doctor, family doctor. You can help your medicine is ototoxic, you may friends, or family. You can help doctor make a diagnosis by writ- feel off balance. Check with your identify a possible balance prob- ing down key information about doctor if you notice a problem lem by asking yourself some key your dizziness or balance prob- while taking a medication. Ask if questions and, if necessary, hav- lem beforehand and giving the other medications can be used ing your balance checked by a information to your doctor dur- instead. If not, ask if the dosage doctor. ing the visit. Tell your doctor as can be safely reduced. Sometimes Describing Symptoms much as you can. it cannot. However, your doctor Balance disorders can be difficult to diagnose because patients Write down answers to these sometimes find it hard to de- questions for your doctor: Ex-POW Bulletin scribe their symptoms to a doc- • How would you describe Sept/Oct 2012 tor. Patients may use words such your dizziness or balance prob- 8 as “dizzy,” “woozy,” or “light- lem? Treating Balance Problems ance. They are also studying the medsearch, continued Some exercises help make up for effectiveness of certain exercises • How often do you have a balance disorder by moving the as a treatment option for balance dizziness or balance problems? head and body in certain ways. disorders. • Have you ever fallen? The exercises are developed espe- • If so, when did you fall, cially for a patient by a profes- In a study funded by the National where did you fall, and how of- sional who understands the bal- Institute on Deafness and Other ten have you fallen? ance system and its relationship Communication Disorders • What medications do you with other systems in the body. (NIDCD), researchers created a take? Remember to include all “virtual reality” grocery store. over-the-counter medications, In benign paroxysmal positional This virtual store is a computer- including aspirin, antihista- vertigo, or BPPV, small calcium simulated environment that mines, and sleep aids. particles in the inner ear become seems to be a physical place in • What is the name of the displaced, causing dizziness. the real world, designed so people medication? Your doctor or otolaryngologist with balance disorders can safely • How much do you take can treat BPPV by carefully mov- walk on a treadmill as they prac- each day? ing the head and torso to dis- tice looking for items on store • What times of the day do lodge these particles. For some shelves. The goal is to help re- you take the medication? people, one session will be all duce a person’s dizziness in con- • What is the health condi- that is needed. Others might need fusing environments. tion for which you take the medi- to repeat the procedure several cation? times at home to relieve their NIDCD-supported scientists are dizziness. also studying the use of a vesti- Seeing a Specialist bular implant to stop a Ménière’s Your doctor may refer you to an Treating Ménière’s Disease attack by restoring normal elec- otolaryngologist. This is a doctor Ménière’s disease is caused by trical activity in the vestibular and surgeon with special training changes in fluid volumes in the nerve. This nerve conveys balance in problems of the ear, nose, inner ear. People with Ménière’s information to the brain. The de- throat, head, and neck. disease can help reduce its diz- vice uses the same technology zying effects by lowering the found in a cochlear implant, a The otolaryngologist may ask amount of sodium, or salt (so- medical device that currently you for your medical history and dium) in their diets. Limiting al- provides a sense of sound to perform a physical examination cohol or caffeine also may be people who are deaf or hard-of- to help figure out the possible helpful. hearing. causes of the balance disorder. He or she may also perform tests Medications such as corticoster- An NIDCD-supported clinical trial to determine the cause and extent oids and the antibiotic gentami- in benign paroxysmal position- of the problem. cin are used to treat Ménière’s ing vertigo (BPPV) showed that disease. Although gentamicin can repositioning maneuvers work Treatment and Research help reduce the dizziness that well, and offered clinicians a occurs with Ménière’s disease, it range of choices in selecting the Your doctor can recommend occasionally destroys sensory treatment best suited to each strategies to help reduce the ef- cells in the inner ear which can individual’s unique needs. fects of a balance disorder. Sci- result in permanent hearing loss. entists are studying ways to de- Corticosteroids don’t cause hear- The information in this topic velop new, more effective meth- ing loss; however, research is un- was provided by the National ods to treat and prevent balance derway to determine if they are Institute on Deafness and Other disorders. as effective as gentamicin. Communication Disorders National Institutes of Health Balance disorders can be signs of In some cases, surgery may be 31 Center Drive, MSC 2320 other health problems, such as an necessary to relieve a balance dis- Bethesda, MD USA 20892-2320 ear infection, stroke, or multiple order. E-mail: [email protected] sclerosis. In some cases, you can help treat a balance disorder by Current Research seeking medical treatment for Scientists are working to under- the illness that is causing the dis- stand the complex interactions Ex-POW Bulletin order. between the brain and the part of Sept/Oct 2012 the inner ear responsible for bal- 9 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 pay- .90 Palawan Barracks ment to: AXPOW, 3201 East Pioneer Parkway #40, .90 Rangoon Prison, Burma Arlington, TX 76010 Roku Poshi .70 .50 Name Saigon POW Camp, Phone .70 French Indo-China Address .50 Sendai Camp #6, Hanawa City, State, Zip Sendai Camp #11 .50 Amount enclosed $ ______(includes shipping/handling*) MasterCard and Visa accepted (circle one) Ex-POW Bulletin ($5.00 minimum charge) Sept/Oct 2012 Card Number: 10 Expiration Date: consists of 958 interviews, most Another recent World War II do- andersonville with former prisoners of war. nation was a pair of socks knit- Jessica Lynch was a Private First ted by Laurence “Larry” Dennis. Class serving with the 507th Main- On November 16, 1943 planes tenance Company on March 23, with the 92nd Bomb Group flew a 2003 when her convoy was at- mission over a steel plant in tacked in Nasiriyah, Iraq. Eleven Knaben, Norway. German fight- members of her unit were killed ers shot down Dennis’ bomber and several others including PFC and he and three crew members Lynch were captured. Lynch suf- bailed out. Dennis was captured fered numerous injuries and was after a week of evasion and even- taken to multiple locations be- tually taken to Stalag 17B in fore being placed in Saddam Krems, Austria. During Novem- Hussein General Hospital. On ber 1944 the POWs received a Andersonville NHS April 1, 2003 Lynch was rescued shipment of sweaters from the 496 Cemetery Road by U.S. Special Forces. Salvation Army. Some of the Andersonville, GA 31711 POWs used the yarn in the (229) 924-0343 photo, L to R: Chief of Interpre- sweater to knit other items. Larry Brad Bennett, Superintendent tation and Education Eric Leonard, Dennis quickly learned knitting [email protected] Jessica Lynch, and Alan Marsh and made a pair of socks. He recently donated those socks to Andersonville NHS. Park Continues to Jessica Lynch Visits Receive POW Donations Andersonville NHS by Bridget Beers and Alan Marsh By Alan Marsh, Chief of Resource Management One of the park’s most recent donations to the museum collection came from John E. Bills III, the son of Sgt. John E. Bills Jr. who was a prisoner of the Ger- mans in World War II. Bills served in the 460th Bomb Group, 763rd squadron. On his 10th mission over Munich the plane was hit and the crew bailed out over Lamprechshausen, Austria on November 16, 1944. He was sent to Stalag Luft IV and stayed there In addition to the former POWs until January 1945 when he was and family members mentioned moved by train to Stalag Luft I in in this article, Andersonville NHS Barth, Germany. He and his fel- would like to also thank John and Jessica Lynch, the American pris- low prisoners were liberated by Peggy Klaver. The Klavers do- oner of war who made headline the Russians in May 1945. nated a POW Commemorative news during her captivity in 2003 coin. On December 14, 1993 leg- during the Iraq War, visited Mr. Bills donated his father’s islation authorized the Secretary Andersonville NHS on June 19, POW diary, letters, telegrams, a of Treasury to mint the coin to 2012. Ms. Lynch visited the Na- scrapbook kept by his parents, help raise funds for construction tional Prisoner of War Museum and the Red Cross suitcase he of the National Prisoner of War prior to her evening speaking en- was issued to bring his belong- Museum. gagement at the Boys and Girls ings home after repatriation. Club of Americus/Sumter One item of special interest is a photo: Socks knitted by Larry Den- County. During her visit, Lynch map of Europe in which Bills re- nis. graciously gave a 30-minute in- corded troop movements with terview to park staff about her great risk to his life because if experiences. The Andersonville Ex-POW Bulletin he was ever caught he would have NHS oral history program now Sept/Oct 2012 been executed as a spy. 11 His funeral included very personal existence today. After being reap- namPOW news notes from the five living governors pointed by Governor Wilder, he re- he served as head of the Virginia De- tired at the end of his term at age partment of Aviation and numerous 69. During his military career, he re- accolades from the Who’s Who of ceived the Distinguished Flying Aviation in Virginia. Here’s Ken’s Cross, the Air Medal with one OLC, obituary from the Richmond (Virginia) the Purple Heart, the POW Medal and Times-Dispatch: the Air Force Commendation Medal. During his Civil Aviation career, he Maj. Ken Rowe – circa 1944 was honored to serve as President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials and received many Paul E. Galanti awards and recognitions highlighted National Director, East Central by the National Air Transportation Association’s “Ong Memorial Lead- 804.389.1668 (cell) ership Award,” the National Aeronau- [email protected] tic Association’s “Elder Statesman of Aviation Award” in 1993 and induction into the “Virginia Aviation Hall The Greatest Generation of Fame” in 1994 by the Virginia Aero- nautical Historical Society. A Memo- Loses Another Fine One rial Service will be held at the Vir- ginia Aviation Museum August 10 at Much has been written about the 2 PM., and a funeral service with hon- Greatest Generation before, during ors will be at Arlington National Cem- and after Tom Brokaw’s bestseller etery on a date to be determined. In about his father’s generation. Our lieu of flowers, donations may be Vietnam experience was certainly made to the Virginia Aeronautical different from that generation’s but Historical Society. many of our great leaders in the Hanoi Hilton began their leadership It occurred to me as I sadly read training as a part of that generation. Ken’s obituary how much his military In fact Vern Ligon and Pop Keirn were Kenneth A. Rowe passed peacefully training and POW background might POWs in WWII before their stint in the in his home on July 29, 2012 with have led him to be so successful in Hanoi Hilton. Both commented that family by his side. He was born in so many fields of endeavor. Ken was they really didn’t need any additional Kenosha, Wis., and served with dis- cut from the same bolt of cloth as training! tinction during two Aviation careers so many of our leaders in Vietnam - one in the Military and one in Civil that I wonder if it is not Those leaders had service, honor and Aviation. His military career began in coincendental. Admiral Jim Stockdale duty embedded in them through December 1942 and he became a 4- our senior Navy ex-POW from Viet- whatever their family backgrounds or engine bomber pilot at age 19. He nam was a philosopher who often induction processes when they flew 13 combat missions from En- wondered if his captivity had bee joined the service. Shortly after re- gland in the Mighty 8 Air Force, was pre-ordained. His tome, “The World turning from Hanoi in 1973, I was shot down twice and liberated from of Epictetus” stressed that theme and fortunate to meet a man who had a POW camp at Moosburg, Germany Stockdale often remarked that he completed a career in the Air Corps/ when WWII ended in May 1945. Af- was meant to lead men in a POW Air Force nearly always serving in a ter 21 years of active duty, he retired camp. flying status and employed as one from the USAF in 1963 as a Major of the Virginia Governor’s pilots. Tall, and Command Pilot with 5,451 fly- I’m not trying to usurp my wonderful handsome with a quick smile and la- ing hours. Upon retiring, he accepted editor’s obituaries as she beautifully conic manner, he epitomized the a flying assignment with administra- documents the well-lived lives of our Jimmy Stewart/John Wayne/Gary tive duties in the Virginia Department POW families and friends. But I did Cooper image. His name was Ken of Aviation. His 30-plus years feel that this great man, Major Ken Rowe and is one of the very few spanned eight Governor Administra- Rowe who led a magnificent exem- people I’ve ever known whom every- tions for Virginia’s Aviation Commu- plary life, deserves a last salute from body liked! nity and was highlighted by an ap- an admiring observer. pointment as Director by Governor Robb. He was reappointed by Gov- With greatest respect Ex-POW Bulletin ernor Baliles who included Aviation Paul Galanti in his historic Virginia Transportation Sept/Oct 2012 Trust Fund which increased aviation 12 funding tenfold and continues in Survivor Dependency and Indem- The VA provides Pensions to low- nity Compensation (DIC) eligibil- income surviving spouses and va outreach ity applies if the veteran was con- unmarried children of deceased tinuously rated totally disabled veterans with wartime service. To for a period of 10 years immedi- be eligible, a spouse must not ately preceding death, or continu- have remarried and children ously rated totally disabled from must be under 18, or under 23 if the date of discharge and for 5 attending a VA approved school, years immediately preceding or have become permanently in- death, or a former POW who was capable of self-support because of continuously rated totally dis- disability before age 18. The vet- abled for a period of at least 1 eran must have been discharged year immediately preceding under conditions other than dis- JVC Bill Jeffers death. The extent that a service- honorable and must have had 90 connected disability affected the or more days of active military Chairman onset of death does not dictate service, at least one day of which the monthly amount of DIC a was during a period of war, or a In the last OUTREACH article, in- widow receives. Payments will be service-connected disability jus- formation was given which offset by any amount received tifying discharge. Children who would be useful to Outreach Am- from judicial proceedings become incapable of self-support bassadors trying to assist newly brought on by the veteran’s because of a disability before age widowed spouses or next-of-kin death. The veteran’s discharge 18 may be eligible for the death deal with the financial challenges must have been under conditions pension as long as the condition and obligations which arise upon other than dishonorable. Applica- exists, unless the child marries the death of a veteran. This article tion for DIC is accomplished by or the child’s income exceeds the will give attention to the VA fi- completing VA Form 21-534, fol- applicable limit. The surviving nancial benefits provided to the lowing the instructions which ac- spouse may be entitled to a widow or other dependent survi- company it. Only complete the higher income limit if living in a vor of a deceased veteran as well sections applying to Compensa- nursing home, in need of aid and as the eligibility requirements tion, not Pension where income the attendance of another person, which apply. Keep in mind that and assets are a factor. An origi- or permanently housebound. all of these articles are primarily nal or certified copy of the death focused on situations relating to certificate must accompany the ex-POWs, but they do not neces- application. The application sarily exclude other veterans. should be submitted to the near- A Snapshot of our est VA Regional Office. From Nation’s Veterans Before getting on with the topic there, it will be sent to the appro- for this article, it should have priate VA Zone facility for pro- There are 21.6 million been mentioned in the last article cessing. It would be wise to make veterans in the United that notification of a veteran’s a copy of the entire package for States…20.2 million male death to the VA should be made the submitter’s personal file. VA veterans; 1.6 million female to the VA Regional Office at 1-800- compensation benefits are not veterans. 827-1000, not to the local VA subject to IRS income tax. More than 1.3 million veter- Medical Center or VA clinic. Also, ans served during multiple be sure to check with the funeral In addition to the basic DIC, there wars. director to determine if he has are other benefits for which a A veteran is more than twice applied for the VA Burial Refund. widow may be eligible. Aid and as likely as a non-veteran to If not, complete and submit VA Attendance needs can entitle a hold a job in a public admin- Form 21-530. If a service-con- DIC recipient to an additional al- istration industry. nected disability was not the pri- lowance. If the widow is in a nurs- Veterans own 9% of all U.S. mary cause of death, but was ing home, or requires regular aid businesses. noted on the long form death cer- and attendance by another per- tificate as a contributing factor, son, she may qualify for a spe- Data provided by the US this will raise the Burial Refund cial allowance in addition to the Census Bureau limit to $2000, instead of $700 basic DIC. If housebound due to and an additional $700 if burial a disability, a special allowance Ex-POW Bulletin is in a private cemetery. is also granted. Sept/Oct 2012 13 most likely be conducting all of the As for our number two objec- business and activities of the orga- tive, we have failed. Our num- nization, and yet near enough for us ber of next of kin has declined to actually project ourselves into that from over 600 to 550. We do time frame without feeling we are not know the reason for this dealing with fiction. The next func- but we can guess they are not tion of planning becomes a matter too excited to join an organi- of HOW DO WE GET THERE. And zation with the majority about that becomes a matter of backing up 90 years old. through the 5 years to establish where we need to be each year to If, under these conditions, we arrive at the desired goal at year 5. look at the future, say five Members of the committee have al- years for discussion pur- ready began to consider some steps poses, and apply actuarial that could be taken to streamline the tables most of the WWII aged governance of the organization and member will have passed on hope to have some proposals to THE JOINT STRATEGIC & NEXT OF or be unable to participate in the present to the mid-year meeting of KIN COMMITTEE was formed at the management of the organization. The the board of directors. request of the board of directors remaining members consisting of during the annual convention in Ar- Korean, Vietnam, and next of kin will And so allow me to present to whit lington Texas in June of this year. number only one thousand and most the five year goals already estab- This new committee was not to re- of them have shown little interest in lished by the committee. place either of the two committees being actively involved. used to form it but to only work to- Goals: gether in the commission of their When the Strategic Planning Commit- 1. Keep alive the POW legacy. joint mission which is “TO DETER- tee presented this dismal data to the 2. Celebrate the history and sacri- MINE THE STRATEGY AND MAN- membership at the recent national fices of the American prisoners of NER OF TRANSITION OF THE convention in Arlington, they took war to keep America free through a AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF action, empowered us to create a social organization. WAR INTO A LEGACY ORGANIZA- plan to keep the organization going 3. Foster the education of Ameri- TION”. The board also requested a if indeed we do decline to 1000 can youth about the sacrifices made short committee report at the end members five years from now. by those American freedom fighters of the convention during the gen- who became prisoners of war. eral business session. The com- The suggestion was made by the 4. Teach the evolution of the pris- mittee met for two sessions during board that the Strategic Planning and oner of war experience and make the convention and as requested Lew Next of Kin Committee be combined available and tell stories of specific Sleeper, the chair of both THE EM- and thus was born the new joint prisoner of war experiences. POWERED STRATEGIC PLANNING committee. As a result the members 5. Build and maintain a historical TEAM and the newly formed JOINT of both committees comprise the new data base of the American prisoner STRATEGIC & NEXT OF KIN COM- joint committee. of war including but not limited to MITTEE, gave the following report. those from the American revolution This composition gives the commit- both loyalists and patriots, War of In recent years the Strategic Planning tee WWII, Viet Nam, several Next of 1812, Civil War both federal and con- Committee stressed two objectives Kin members and legal counsel from federate forces, WWI, WWII, Korea, for our organization: 1) To rebuild David Drummond and staff advice Vietnam, middle eastern conflicts our reserves, and 2) To recruit next from Clydie Morgan with Lew Sleeper and the cold war. of kin. as its Chairman. 6. Tell the history of the American EX-Prisoners of War organization. As for the number one objective, we Our first task was to consider ideas 7. Tell the history of experiences of have to congratulate Cheryl Cerbone, given to us at our request by con- individual American prisoners of war. Bulletin editor, and Clydie Morgan vention attendees. In doing we ar- and staff for reversing an ever de- rived at our mission statement men- We seek more ideas from the mem- clining reserve. We were down to tioned above. bership at large. You can submit your less than $100,000 , and now have ideas to our Strategic Planning web about $172,000, and they are striv- Strategic planning (long range ie: site [email protected]. ing for $250,000. 5,10,15 years), requires that the plan- ners decide WHERE THEY WANT TO Lew Sleeper, Chairman Ex-POW Bulletin BE in the future. The 5 year time Joint Strategic and Next of Kin Sept/Oct 2012 horizon was picked because it is far Committee 14 enough out that the Next Of Kin will A Pentagon ceremony for Na- and maintained by the Defense pow-mia tional POW/MIA Recognition Day POW/MIA Personnel Office will be held on Friday, Sept. 21, (DPMO) and JPAC were reviewed. 2012. This ceremony features DPMO-JPAC analytic discussions troops from each of the military provided the basis for estimates services. of possible / potential recover- ies. Sources are shown adjacent AMERICANS ACCOUNTED-FOR: to each set of data. There are 7956 There are now 1,661 personnel men remain unaccounted for. listed by the Defense POW/Miss- ing Personnel Office (DPMO) as MOVEMENT ON ARCHIVAL DOCU- missing and unaccounted-for MENTS: Vietnam turned over PNC John Edwards from the Vietnam War. Most re- long-requested archival docu- cently announced is Lt Col ments during Technical Talks Chairman Clarence Finley “Bill” Blanton, held May 4th in Hanoi. This has 889 Randall Road USAF, listed as KIA/BNR in Laos been a League priority for decades Niskayuna, NY 12309-4815 on March 11, 1968 when the during which appeals have been (518) 393-3907 phone & fax TACXAN radar installation (Lima made for unilateral provision of Site 85) on atop a mountain in such archival records. Lists pre- Sept. 21, 2012. National POW/ Houaphan Province was overrun pared and updated by DPMO’s MIA Recognition Day by Vietnamese forces. His re- Research Analysis Directorate mains were recovered January 18, (RA) and JPAC’s Intelligence Direc- 2008 and identified July 12, 2012. torate (J2) were repeatedly raised The President issues a proclama- The identification of PFC James by US and League officials to Viet- tion commemorating the obser- Rickey Maxwell, USMC and PFC namese officials at the highest vances and reminding the nation Richard William Rivenburgh, level. This recent responsiveness of those Americans who have sac- USMC, was posted on DPMO’s is encouraging, reflecting a deci- rificed so much for their coun- website on July 20th. PRC Max- sion by Vietnam’s leaders that is try. well and PRC Rivenburgh were most welcome and deeply appre- killed on May 15, 1975 during an ciated. The current political and Observances of National POW/ attempted rescue of the SS security regional environment is MIA Recognition Day are held Mayaguez crew when their HH53 prompting expanded military-to- across the country on military helicopter crashed near Koh Tang, military relations between the US installations, ships at sea, state Cambodia. Their remains were and Vietnam, with increases in capitols, schools and veterans’ recovered December 6, 1995 and cooperation on matters pertain- facilities. It is traditionally ob- identified January 23, 2012. ing to bilateral interests. Viet- served on the third Friday in Sep- nam has long recognized the im- tember each year. This obser- Also, LT Dennis W. Peterson, USN, portant role that the POW/MIA vance is one of six days through- CA, listed as KIA/BNR in North issue played as their “bridge” to out the year that Congress has Vietnam on July 19, 1967, and SFC expanding and broadening bilat- mandated the flying of the Na- Gunther H. Wald, USA, NJ, listed eral relations. tional League of Families’ POW/ as MIA in South Vietnam on No- MIA flag. The others are Armed vember 3, 1969. The remains of Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag LT Peterson were recovered on Day, Independence Day and Vet- November 20, 2000, and identified erans Day. October 21, 2011. SFC Wald’s remains were recovered April 13, Missing/Captured The flag is to be flown at major 2010, and identified January 6, US Service member reported miss- military installations, national 2011. ing or captured while supporting cemeteries, all post offices, VA combat operations: medical facilities, the World War Research was conducted at the II Memorial, Korean War Veterans National Archives and Records Army Spc. Bowe R. Bergdahi, 25, Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Administration, the US Army Ca- June 30,2009, Afghanistan Memorial, the official offices of sualty and Memorial Affairs Op- the secretaries of state, defense erations Center(CMAOC), and the and veterans affairs, the director Joint POW/MIA Accounting Com- Ex-POW Bulletin of the selective service system mand (JPAC) Records Center. Sept/Oct 2012 and the White House. Also, working papers collected 15 Eight, Italian and Jewish War Vet- Bogard, and certified by Laura vavs erans of the U.S., Military Order Balun, Director Voluntary Ser- of the Purple Heart, and many I vices, as National VAVS Represen- have never heard of…Military tative for the American Ex-Pris- Order of the Cootie, Air Compas- oners of War. The appointment sion for Veterans, Blue Star Moth- was effective in October 2011. ers of America….on and on. One hundred forty thousand (140,000) The responsibilities of this ap- volunteers give of their time to pointment was a mystery to me, these 65 organizations. and still is to a certain extent, es- pecially after I started receiving VA operates 152 medical centers, stacks of reports from 69 VA fa- and more than 800 community- cilities throughout the U.S. from PNC Morris Barker, based outpatient clinics. In 2011 which I was to review, report to Chairman inpatient facilities treated more our organization, and to assure than 690,000 patients while out- we maintain an AXPOW represen- Veterans Affairs patient clinics registered in ac- tative at the various facilities. Voluntary cess of 79 million visits. The reports I receive also in- Services (VAVS) Report cludes all activities, attendance, VAVS is the largest centralized business, and social, at the vari- volunteer program in the Federal ous facilities as an aid to veter- History: Before my VAVS report government. Since 1946, volun- ans reporting for care. as National Representative for the teers through VA facilities have AXPOW organization, I would like provided over 700 million (ap- The reporting period for National to review the history, purpose, proximately 12 million each year) VAVS begins in October. My report and growth of the VAVS organi- hours of service, equivalent to today covers the period only zation since it was founded in $15 billion based on Independent through May 2011 of the third 1946, just one year after the end Sector Value of $22 per hour. Each quarter which ends this month. of WWII. VAVS was founded for year, in addition to volunteer Through this 8 month period, the purpose of providing ser- hours, contributions in gifts and VAVS volunteers representing vices, on a volunteer basis, for donations equal approximately AXPOW in the 69 VA facilities to- veterans as they visited or were $110 million. tal 209, who have served 14,956 confined to VA Health Care facili- hours. Based on the Independent ties throughout the U.S. Specifi- Therefore it can easily be seen the Sector Value of $21.20 per hour, cally, volunteers assist patients importance of VAVS. Laura Balun, this is equivalent to $317,067 in by augmenting VA Staff with end Director of Voluntary Services, value to the various facilities. of life care programs, foster care, Washington, DC made this hospital wards, nursing homes, observation...... ”VAVS volunteers Bay Pines VA Healthcare System and veteran outreach centers. are a priceless asset to the of Bay Pines Florida has the larg- Nation’s veterans and to the De- est number of volunteers total- Many of our Board members vol- partment of Veteran Affairs ing 16, with 756 volunteer hours unteer through this program, in- worked. The Brooklyn VA, NY Har- cluding Charlie Susino, Ken On a local basis, our organization, bor, with 5 volunteers worked Hanson, Bill Jeffers, and possibly AXPOW, is an important asset to 2339 volunteer hours. more...Janice Sleeper, wife of Lew, VAVS. For many years Jean Ann Still...all representing Ameri- Theide represented American Ex- Recent appointment as a VAVS can Ex-Prisoners of War. Prisoners of War with VAVS, and volunteer, representing AXPOW served on the National Advisory has been Ruby Williams as On a national basis, there are ap- Committee as well, advising the Deputy Representative at the proximately 65 organizations, Secretary of the VA, as to the Temple, TX VA hospital. Ruby will including our organization, pro- needs of POWs seeking aid in the be working with Representative viding volunteers to VA facilities many VA clinics and hospitals Susanne Judd, appointed by SVC such as America Legion, VFW, throughout the U.S. Jim Lollar as Commander of De- Gold Star Mothers, Forty and partment of Texas in 2011. Ex-POW Bulletin Upon the passing of Jean, I was Sept/Oct 2012 recommended by Adjutant, Mor- I have attended one VAVS meet- gan, appointed by Commander ing which was in Harker Heights, 16 TX in May of this year. kia. I was in a group of approximately their families; it also showcases a 80 POWs that came to the Camp and special group of men that did what we were the only ones there until was deemed the impossible. Can you April 1945. There was two “railroad let your members know how to visit events gangs” of approximately 20 men each. the museum? For information, please The balance of the prisoners were share this link: http:// divided between working in the rail- www.greatescape2.net/links.html For Oct. 2-6, 2012. The annual road roundhouse and coaling station members of your group who were located across the tracks from the POWs in that camp, the museum di- Mukden reunion will be held at camp and the balance worked in a rector has agreed to erect a perma- the Hotel St. Marie, in New Or- factory in Adorf. We were there until nent plaque in the exhibit room with leans. Room reservations must mid to late April 1945 when the Ger- the names of each POW on whose be made thru the Hotel St. Marie, mans put most of the prisoners on behalf a donation is made. I would at 800 – 366- 2748, before July 30. the on the road walking toward the also like to extend an invitation to Be sure to say you’re with the West away from the Russians ap- you for March 24th, 2013 to visit the Mukden Survivors Group. Con- proaching from the East. I was fortu- museum. This is the day the museum tact: Ann Johnson, 52 Streamview nate not to be a part of that walk as will host the opening of an exhibit Lane, Wynantskill, NY 12198; 518- I escaped just before the Germans of my Dad’s drawings. It is an ap- 283 -8062(land line) before August put our people on the road. In the propriate day to show that freedom 15th. After that, call 518 -283 - last few years I have been able to rules. In addition, it is the 70th anni- 6280 (cell phone.) locate and be in touch with five men versary of The Great Escape. If any who were at Adorf the same time of your members can attend, that March 14-16, 2013. USS Hous- that I was there. I would like to hear would be appreciated. ton CA-30 Survivors Associa- from anyone who was at Adorf while I was there. My telephone number is tion & Next Generations Annual I was in Italy at Anzio Beach, with 404-841-6264. My mailing address Reunion will be held at: Hyatt the weapons platoon, Co. K, 179th is 2626 Peachtree Rd., NW, unit 703, Regency Houston Downtown. Reg., 45th Div. On Feb. 16, I was cap- Atlanta, GA 30305. My email address Contact: John Keith Schwarz Ex- tured, and held with several other is [email protected]. ecutive Director- USS Houston POWs on front lines, in a barn tem- CA-30 Survivors Association & porarily. On the 16th or 17th, I was I am a member of AXPOW and Friends Next Generations; resting on some straw in the barn and Families of Stalag Luft III. The without a door in the direction of [email protected]; 202- camp is famous because that is our troops. Suddenly a rifle round 268-2261/703-867-0142. where The Great Escape happened. hit the wall beside me about 2 or 3 My father was Carl Henry Holmstrom, inches above me. I quickly moved. It June 27-July 1, 2012. The and he was one of the longest held was fired from Americans who may American Ex-Prisoners of War POW’s in that camp. He was in charge have been in the same outfit as me. National Convention will be held of the camp art materials, was one The barn was then demolished with in Arlington, Texas at the Hilton of the forgers, and used his talent exploding shelling. Please, I want to Arlington Hotel. We’ve got a of drawing portraits to procure thank you for not sending a second great convention planned, so now needed supplies for the escape. round about 6 inches lower! It could it’s your turn to start planning to have been fatal. attend. There will be more infor- He was able to save about two hundred drawings, which I am donating mation in the Bulletin starting in I was evacuated after 2 days and to The Stalag Luft III Museum in November/December, 2012. shipped to several German POW Zagan, Poland. This museum is a camps farther north. I was treated great credit to the citizens of Zagan. better after getting into Germany. Unfortunately, The museum’s exhibit This has been on my mind for some room has not been thoroughly up- time and it would be amazing if I dated in decades. This non-descript, looking could contact the person who shot former Communist building houses at me! I am very thankful. Please con- what artifacts the museum has been tact: Ray Sherman, 7707 N Brookline able to collect, but they are not in Dr., #409, Madison, WI 53719; for well-designed, properly-lighted, dis- [email protected]. play cases. This museum is working My name is Fred O Scheer. In late improve its displays to showcase, Aug. or early Sept. 1944 I arrived at honor and preserve as many of the the POW labor camp at Adorf, Ger- POW’s memories and talents that it many. Adorf was located approxi- can. This museum represents a place Ex-POW Bulletin mately 60 km west of the border that is very personal to those who Sept/Oct 2012 between Germany and Czechoslova- were POWs at Stalag Luft III and to 17 Committee Assignments 2012-2013

ANDERSONVILLE NHS GRIEVANCE & INVESTIGATION EDITOR COORDINATOR Hanson, PNC Kenny Cerbone, Cheryl DeMent, Ed Koehler, Frank SERGEANT AT ARMS Sharp, Bonnie Claypool, David BUDGET & FINANCE Moore, Skip NATIONAL CONVENTION Lollar, SVC James Johnson, Jim Jeffers, JVC Bill Clark, John Morgan, Clydie Eslinger, JVC Pam STRATEGIC PLANNING Moore, Skip Moore, JVC Skip Sleeper, Lew Eslinger, Pam Morgan, Adj/Treas Clydie Clark, John Barker, PNC Morris Bogard, PNC Carroll Moore, Skip Susino, NC Charles SUBCOMMITTEES Drummond, David CHAPLAIN AWARDS Rayborn, Benny Harvey, PNC Gerald Jeffers, William Hanson, PNC Kenny Rayborn, Benny - Assistant CREDENTIALS JOINT STRATEGIC PLANNING Morgan, Clydie CIVILIAN EX-POW AND NOK Myers, Gloria Gollin, Alice Sleeper, Lew Ray, Jackye Cerbone, Cheryl Drummond, Dave Morgan, Sally NOMINATIONS & ELECTIONS Clark, John BYLAWS & RESOLUTIONS Moore, Skip Eslinger, Pam Drummond, Dave Garrido, Ben Moore, Skip Rayborn, Benny Koehler, Frank NEXT OF KIN Claypool, David Morgan, Clydie Eslinger, Pam Myers, Gloria Rayborn, Benny EDUCATION PNC Kenny Hanson DeMent, Ed Moore, Skip Moore, Skip Myers, Gloria VA OUTREACH PROGRAM Claypool, David Jeffers, Bill ELECTION JUDGES Jenks, Doris Warner, PNC Jack NSO PROGRAM Sharp, PNC Maurice Powell, Ruth – Director VA VOLUNTARY SERVICE Schmidt, PNC Bill Harlan, Betty – Co-Director Barker, PNC Morris Jeffers, Bill HISTORIAN WAYS & MEANS Myers, Gloria PERSONNEL Cerbone, Cheryl Schmidt, Deanie Ruetsch, Ray JOB DESCRIPTIONS Jeffers, Bill Sharp, Bonnie Eslinger, Pam Gollin, Alice Eslinger, Pam McIntyre, Laura JUDGE ADVOCATE POW-MIA COORDINATOR SUB-COMMITTEES Edwards, PNC John Drummond, Dave DIRECT-MAIL PROGRAMS LEGISLATIVE PROTOCOL Cerbone, Cheryl Roberts, PNC Zack Hanson, PNC Kenny WASHINGTON DC SPECIAL Clark, John Lee, Judy EVENTS Coke, Marsha Susino, C. A. Susino, NC Charles Lee, Judy MEDICAL RESEARCH National Headquarters Coke, Marsha PROTOCOL FOR NEW OFFICERS Powell, Ruth Morgan, Sally MEMBERSHIP PUBLIC RELATIONS Coke, Marsha Cerbone, Cheryl Garrido, Ben Gollin, Alice first name listed is Galanti, Paul SUBCOMMITTEES committee chair PUBLICATIONS GUIDELINES Sharp, PNC Maurice - Publisher Ex-POW Bulletin Cerbone, Cheryl Sept/Oct 2012 18 Committee Addresses GARRIDO BEN POWELL RUTH 21083 S FORREST DR 191 FLORENCE RD 2012-20132012-20132012-2013 TAHLEQUAH OK 74464 WALTHAM MA 02453 (951) 313-9839 (781) 899-0726 BARKER PNC MORRIS 710 CHAPEL VIEW GOLLIN ALICE RAYBORN BENNY WACO TX 76712 3650 SAVANNA WAY 1111 HWY 29 (254) 732-5640 PALM SPRINGSCA 92262 WIGGINS MS 39577 (760) 202-1329 (601) 466-1951 BOGARD PNC CARROLL 275 N+C28 TAFT #116 HANSON PNC KENNY H ROBERTS PNC ZACK MASON CITY IA 50401 9401 LYNDALE AVE S #228 374 ROLLING ROCK (641) 424-4870 BLOOMINGTON MN 55420 - 4255 MOUNTAINSIDE NJ 07092 (952) 888-2703 (908) 232-2990 CERBONE CHERYL A 23 COVE VIEW DR HARVEY PNC GERALD RUETSCH RAY S YARMOUTH MA 2664 709 BAPTIST HOME LANE 4365 N CINDY LN (508) 394-5250 SEDALIA MO 64601-3975 COLUMBIA MO 65202 (660) 827-2178 (573) 817-9332 CLARK JOHN W 1201 S JOHNMEYER LN JEFFERS WILLIAM SCHMIDT DEANIE COLUMBIA MO 65203 3522 MILLBROOK WAY CR 1001 PARKVIEW BLVD #316 (573) 445-3621 GREEN ACRES FL 33463-3057 COLUMBUS OH 43219-2205 (561) 969-6036 (614) 372-0789 CLAYPOOL DAVID PO BOX 38 KOEHLER FRANK SCHMIDT PNC BILL HAMPTON MN 55031 243 TORREY PINES DR 1001 PARKVIEW BLVD #316 (612) 245-2247 TOMS RIVER NJ 08757 COLUMBUS OH 43219-2205 (732) 244-4629 (614) 372-0789 COKE MARSHA 3201 E PIONEER PKWY #40 LEE JUDY SHARP BONNIE ARLINGTON TX 76010-5396 PO BOX 56 9716 54TH ST CT W (817) 649-2979 MADISONVILLE TN 37354 UNIVERSITY PLACE WA 98467-1118 (423) 442-3223 (253) 565-0444 DE MENT EDWARD L 8735 DORAL OAKS DR #1617 LOLLAR JIM SHARP PNC MAURICE TEMPLE TERRACE FL 33617-6244 292 VZ CR 3727 9716 54TH ST CT W (813) 985-3783 WILLS POINT TX 75169 UNIVERSITY PLACE WA 98467-1118 (903) 560-1734 (253) 565-0444 DRUMMOND DAVID 1 CRANE CT MC INTYRE LAURA M SLEEPER LEWIS MANALAPAN NJ 07726-3626 BOX 475 6636 E VILLA DORADO (732) 446-4198 HARDWICK MA 01037 TUCSON AZ 85715 (413) 477-8260 (520) 751-9628 EDWARDS PNC JOHN 889 RANDALL RD MOORE SKIP SUSINO CHARLES NISKAYUNA NY 12309-4815 2965 SIERRA BERMEJA 136 JEFFERSON ST (518) 393-3907 SIERRA VISTA AZ 85650 METUCHEN NJ 08840-2847 (520) 459-7295 (732) 549-5775 ESLINGER PAM WARNER PO BOX 117 MORGAN CLYDIE J WARNER PNC JACK HAMMON OK 73650 3201 E PIONEER PKWY #40 BOX 117 (580) 473-2783 ARLINGTON TX 76010-5396 HAMMON OK 73650 (817) 649-2979 FISHER BECKY MYERS GLORIA 6319 WHIMS RD BOX 327 CANALEx-POW WINCHESTER Bulletin OH 43110 Ex-POW Bulletin WALNUT IA 51577 (614)Sept/Oct 834-7214 2012 Sept/Oct 2012 18 (712) 784-3913 19 a particular subject. The job de- from the scription committee is tasked with keeping the job descriptions United States Postal Service judge-advocate current and suggesting changes Statement of Ownership, to the commander and the board Management, and Circulation of directors for their approval. July 2012 EX-POW BULLETIN Pub. # 0161- This is an attempt at clarification While the rules that govern any 7451 filing date 10/12 and explanation of the differences Frequency: bi-monthly (6 issues between Bylaws of American Ex- organization of this size are annually) Prisoners of War, Codes Of Pro- complex this is a brief explana- $40.00 annual subscription price, or as cedures, and Job Descriptions. tion to help clarify the differ- part of membership dues ences for our members. Pub. Office: 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40, Arlington, Tarrant County, TX The three were initially issued 76010 together and some believed were David Drummond Clydie J. Morgan, Adjutant all the same type of rules, which National Judge Advocate (817) 649-2979 Headquarters: 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, they are not. To help eliminate Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010 the confusion they were sepa- Publisher: Maurice Sharp, 9716 54th rated to help clarify the differ- Street CT West, University Place, WA ence. This created a complaint 98467 Editor: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View that you had to ask for each part bylaws Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664 separately and created extra effort Managing Editor: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 All requested changes to the Na- on the part of the requester. It was Cove View Drive, South Yarmouth, MA tional Bylaws are to be submitted decided to combine the three el- 02664 as follows: Owner: American Ex-Prisoners of War, ements and issue them as a single 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, Suite 40, unit for the convenience of the Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Resolutions have two major parts: members. It is therefore impor- Known bondholders, mortgagees, other a preamble and a resolution. The tant for all to note these differ- security holders: NONE preamble gives the reason for the Tax status: Purpose, function and non- ences. The differences are ex- resolution. The resolution gives the profit status of this organization and plained below. the exempt status for federal income intent. Each can contain one or tax purposes has not changed during more paragraphs and the whole is Bylaws of American Ex-Prisoners the preceding 12 months. read in its entirety, beginning with of War as published are the main the preamble. Each preamble para- Publ. Title: EX-POW BULLETIN structure under which our orga- graph begins with “Whereas” and nization is governed. The amend- ends with “and” to connect it to the ment process is as described in Circulation Data: Issue July/Aug 2012 next paragraph. The final para- Since last file date 10/11 Article XVIII. Amendments. graph is joined to the resolution Average Single Issue Total copies printed: with a semicolon and followed by Codes Of Procedures fall under 12,494 12,147 the phrase “Therefore, be it” the category of standing rules of Total paid/and or requested: 12,351 12,025 the body. They can be amended Whereas, (ETC); and Free distribution outside the mail: as put forth in Section VI - Amend- 45 45 Whereas (ETC); therefore, be it ments of Codes of Procedures. Total distribution: Resolved, that ______These are similar to the standing 12,396 12,070 Copies not distributed: rules for the conduct of our One signature is required on reso- 98 77 meetings. Total: 12,494 12,147 lutions and amendments. Members Percent paid/requested circulation: are reminded that resolutions must Job Descriptions are administra- 99% 99% be submitted to the committee be- tive rules which can be changed fore Oct. 1, 2012. Those request- by the Board of Directors. They ing changes should include a tele- Publication Statement of Ownership are provided so people holding a Form 3526 filed with the Postmaster, phone number where they can be position know what their duties United States Postal Service, Arlington, reached if more information is entail. It also allows the general TX. Copy held at National Headquarters, needed. Send requested changes to: Arlington, TX membership to know whom to contact if a question arises about American Ex-Prisoners of War is a non- David Drummond, Chairman profit corporation, incorporated in Ex-POW Bulletin 1 Crane Court Washington state, October 11, 1949, Sept/Oct 2012 Manalapan, NJ 07726 recorded as Document No. 133762, Roll (732) 446-4198 1, Page 386-392. 20 [email protected] Despite its previous contention that there was insufficient evidence to News prove the illnesses were related to service at Camp Lejeune, the Marine Briefs Corps said in a statement Monday that it was pleased and supported the new law. The law is expected to ollow-Up to the help thousands of veterans and their F families who were exposed to drink- New Vietnam Era ing water that was poisoned with as “moving earth and taking the first trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethyl- by Alice A. Booher steps to bury the legacies of our ene, benzene and vinyl chloride. The past”. It is a $43 million project, law provides health care for 15 dis- expected to be completed in 4 years eases and illnesses, including several on the 47 acre containment site at cancers, female infertility and scle- the now active Vietnamese military roderma, a group of diseases that base near the commercial airport. causes skin and sometimes internal Since 2007, the U.S. has contributed organs to become hard and tight. about $60 million for environmental Miller, the original sponsor of the restoration and social services in Janey Ensminger Act, which was in- Vietnam, but this is the first direct cluded in a modified version of involvement in cleaning up dioxin Burr’s bill, said studies are under which has seeped into Vietnam’s soil way to learn whether there are con- and watersheds for generations and nections between the poisoned wa- continues to cause cancer, birth deter and other illnesses, including mul- fects and other disabilities. tiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and Lou Gehrig’s disease. The De- This act of good faith is but one of partment of Veterans Affairs will several actions that should stimulate determine the process for how vet- the resolution of the fates of Ameri- erans and family members can ob- can MIAs. Since 1975, the Joint POW/ tain health benefits under the new MIA Accounting Command’s Detach- law. ment 2 based in Hanoi has conducted 107 field searches for Ameri- can MIA’s with Vietnamese support. ilitary From the Vietnam War, there are now M As reported in the July-August issue 1,666 American personnel still miss- of the Bulletin, it has been 37 years Funeral Protection ing, of which a total of 1,284 are since the end of the Vietnam War, but The controversial Westboro thought to be in Vietnam. Of these, real and positive actions have not Baptist Church, best known for its 586 cases are categorized as “no been so easy in the 17 years since noisy protests at the funerals of further pursuit” meaning that there the U.S. and Vietnam formally “nor- fallen soldiers, vowed to defy a is conclusive evidence that the indi- malized’ post-war relationships. In new bill signed by President vidual perished but it is not possible early June 2012, for the first time to recover remains – Thus, there are Obama that would require that since 1975, a US Secretary of De- 698 MIAs that need to be located they be kept at least 300 feet from fense, Leon Panetta was welcomed in-country and repatriated. a soldier’s funeral. Obama signed for meetings in Hanoi with Vietnam the Honoring America’s Veterans Defense Minister Phuong Quang and Caring for Camp Lejeune Thanh. Honoring America’s Families Act of 2012 into law on Aug. 6. Among the 50 provisions Both countries have committed to Veterans and Caring for in the legislation that range from improved resolution of unclosed war benefits for military personnel to chapters including cooperating on Camp Lejeune Families healthcare and education is a clearings of bomb and mine fields Act of 2012 and mitigation of residuals of Agent clause 3 that restricts protesters President Barack Obama signed into Orange. On August 10, 2012, the U.S. from gathering within 300 feet of law on Aug. 6, 2012 legislation to began a landmark project to clean a military funeral two hours provide health care to thousands of up dangerous chemicals left from the sick Marine veterans and their fami- defoliant used to destroy enemy lies who were exposed to contami- Ex-POW Bulletin cover. Removing chemicals from the nated water at Camp Lejeune. former U.S. airbase at Da Nang, U.S. Sept/Oct 2012 Ambassador David Shear described 21 ashore and afloat. The small irony Fred Berley, USN (Ret) [a Navy doc- news, continued is not lost that the personable and tor captured at Corregidor who erudite Ferguson, who holds a mas- worked with 3 other physicians to before or two hours after a ters degree in computer science from treat other POWs in captivity, then funeral service has taken place. Naval Postgraduate School, also com- stayed in the Navy and later entered “We have a moral sacred duty to pleted a National Security Fellowship private practice; he is approaching our men and women in uniform,” at Harvard, the alma mater of Japa- his 100th birthday]; SSGT Larry Obama said before signing the nese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto. Carastro [a left waist gunner shot bill. “The graves of our veterans down on his 35th mission in a B-17 are hallowed grounds.” Special honors at the June 2012 over Anzio Beach; captured and held Florida event were rendered for POW for 14 months, to return CONUS Medal of Honor (MOH) recipient Hos- to become a successful business- Midway at 70 pital Corpsman Third Class Robert man]; Col Carl Crumpler, USAF (Ret) th by Alice A. Booher R. Ingram, USN, Company C, First Bat- [attached to the 8 Tactical Wing, The histo- talion, Seventh Marines, who had re- flying the F-40 Phantom out of Ubon ries of ceived the MOH for heroic actions RTB, Thailand, shot down and cap- WWII in the against elements of North Vietnam- tured, spending 1,714 days as a POW; Pacific are ese while sustaining four significant retired from USAF in 1977 after 22 often sepa- wounds on March 28, 1966 in Quang years]; RADM Robert Fuller, USN rated into Ngai Province Republic of Vietnam. (Ret) [a 1951 USNA grad, as Com- Before Mid- manding Officer of attack Squadron way, when Other special June 2012 honorees 76 off the Carrier BONHOMME RI- th the Japa- were Midway Veterans Melvin Bell, CHARD flying the A-4C, on his 110 nese had Marlin Crider, James Cunningham, Combat Mission, was shot down near pretty Burrell Davis, Eugene Domienik, John Hun Yen in North Vietnam and held much had Hancock, Marvin Hollis, William POW for 68 months, 25 months of their way; Howard, Ed Kmiec, Patrick Morin, which were in solitary; he resumed and After the battle off (the cluster Gordon Pierce, Wood “Woody” Rich- his Navy career as Commander of the of islands making up the aggregate) mond, William “Bill” Roy, Roger USS AMERICA, retired in 1988]; Midway Island, when things started Spooner, Theron Touchtone, Chuck CPO Bill Ingram, USN (Ret) [aboard to be different. According to Craig Wheeler; and Midway widows Jan the USS HOUSTON when the ship Symond’s The Battle of Midway, and Coombs, Grace Dawson, Virginia was torpedoed and sank on March others, with a combination of tools, Lewis and Ruth Stewart. Special ac- 2, 1942; fished from the water, in- skill and good fortune, some of tivities included extraordinary pre- terrogated and thrown back in for which was self-made, with Midway, sentations of shadow boxes contain- not having given anything of value, the U.S. (particularly the Navy) came ing flags flown over Midway, itself a he was recaptured and sent to Java into its own and rendered a deci- remarkable story of sustained ef- to work for 3 ½ years on the Bridge sive blow. forts of numerous folks nationwide on the River Kwai railroad project]; including in Hawaii. CAPT Wilson Denver Key, USN (Ret) Thus, in June 2012, many celebra- [1963 USNA grad, a pilot in Attack tions of the 70th anniversary of Mid- Décor was red, white and blue, and Squadron THREE FOUR embarked way were planned to be something featured standing panels and table the USS INTREPID flying the A4C on th special, and the community and par- booths of commemorative photos his 76 Combat Mission, was shot ticularly the Navy League Councils and memorabilia including PT boats, down by SAM’s and spent 5 1/2 in Mayport, St. Augustine and Jack- jeeps and posters. One elegant but years in POW camps; he later retired sonville, FL, set out to do it up right. stark touch - lobby easels cradling after 27 years in the Navy]; COL At the world class Renaissance Re- blown up copies of 32 exquisite and Harold Kushner, USA (Ret) [a flight th sort Hotel at World Golf Village in evocative hand-drawn pen and ink surgeon attached to the 9 Cavalry, st St. Augustine, on June 9, 2012, a drawings of his captivity rendered 1 Cavalry Division, flying on a UH-1 Commemorative Dinner was held at by Vietnam POW, Naval officer and Huey when it was shot down; he was which time the keynoter was ADM former Marine, and now Florida resi- a POW for 5 ½ years, continuing his Mark Ferguson, Vice Chief of Naval dent CAPT Giles R. Norrington. medical practice throughout, and Operations. Admiral Ferguson, with served in the Army until 1986]; CAPT a background of nuclear power In an unusual tribute, including a glo- Thomas Letendresse, USN (Ret) [a training before entering the fleet as rious reunion luncheon, special rec- pilot in Attack Squadron 55 em- a surface warfare officer, brought a ognition was accorded former POWs barked the carrier HANCOCK., flying variety of responsible assignments as follows: Col William Byrns, USAF the A-4F on a SAM Suppression mis- (Ret) [a POW for 309 days in Viet- sion in May 1972, spent 306 days as Ex-POW Bulletin nam, who remained in the USAF to a POW, then continued to serve cul- fly combat missions in the F-16F Fal- minating in command of Carrier Air Sept/Oct 2012 con during Desert Storm)]; RADM Wing Two, retiring after 30 years.]; 22 program is just one of many new ini- for compensation/pension benefits news, continued tiatives VA is implementing to ensure under the FDC Program. This our nation’s heroes receive the ben- statement is to preserve my effective CAPT Giles R. Norrington, USN efits they deserve through quicker date for entitlement to benefits. I am nd (Ret) [on his 22 Recon flight over and more accurate decisions. It is the in the process of assembling my claim North Vietnam when the right wing fastest way of getting your compen- package for submission.” The of his RA-5C Vigilante was shot off, sation or pension claim processed. Informal Claim must also be would spend 1,774 days as a POW, Participation in the FDC Program al- accompanied by: retired from the USN in 1988 after lows for more expeditors claims pro- The Claimant’s Name (If Other Than 30 years service including command cessing while preserving greater The Veteran) at Diego Garcia] ; MSGT Andy quality of service and your right to The Veteran’s Name Ramotnik, USAF Ret) [joined the appeal a decision. Disability Benefits The Veteran’s Claim Number. (Note: Army Air Corps shortly after Pearl Questionnaires (DBQ) help support When you become eligible for, apply Harbor, as a B-25 radio operator on the FDC. DBQs are valuable for for and receive Department of combat missions in North Africa; on claims processing because they pro- rd Veterans Affairs benefits, a claim or his 43 bombing raid, was shot down vide medical information that is di- file number is established for you in Italy on a railroad mission, cap- rectly relevant to determining a dis- and your care. This claim number tured by Germans and held POW for ability rating. When submitted with a appears on any correspondence from 19 months at Stalag 17B, escaping Fully Developed Claim, DBQs ensure the VA. Find your claim number by twice; after 90 days recuperative the VA’s ratings specialists have pre- looking in the upper-right-hand leave, he was sent to China until the cisely the information they need to corner for a number preceded by the end of the war; remained on duty start processing the claim. Participa- letters “C,” “XC,” “CSS” or “XSS.” In until 1963, retiring after 20 years of tion in the FDC program is a win-win some cases your Social Security service]; CAPT Richard Stratton, USN for both the veteran and the VA be- number is your claim number, and it (Ret) [pilot in Attack Squadron 192, cause: embarked on the aircraft carrier will work as a substitute for a missing claim number in some TICONDERORA, flying the A-4E; on VA, traditionally, after it receives a th situations. If in doubt call the VA January 4, 1967, on his 27 Combat claim from a Veteran will only then benefits line at 800-827-1000 and Mission, flying recon over North Viet- provide the Veteran notification of inquire about your personal claim or nam to destroy a ferry and ultimately what is required from him/her to file number.) destroying barges, was shot down to substantiate the claim via the Duty spend 2,251 days as a POW; contin- to Assist letter. Under FMA you will Participation is a 3 step process - ued to serve in the Navy, retiring in learn exactly what evidence you 1) Complete your EZ Form and get it 1986 after 31 years]; Randal need to substantiate an eligible certified. Compensation Claim 21- Whetzel [a civilian when he and his claim when you apply, without having 526EZ form at http:// family were captured by the Japa- to wait for further instructions. Thus, www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA- nese in 1942 in the Dutch East Indies, no more waiting for further 21-526EZ-ARE.pdf can be completed he was imprisoned without his fam- instructions. ily at a work camp near Makassar, on line and downloaded for Celebes, collecting fire wood for By participating you will send the submission with your package. For POWs and prison guards kitchen; re- required evidence with your claim pension claims use the form at http:/ leased September 1945 and taken and certify that you have nothing /www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA- to Manila for a month’s rehab, he re- further to provide. By doing this, you 21-527EZ-ARE.pdf. dramatically reduce the processing turned to Indonesia in 1948 to con- 2) Gather the evidence. time of your claim. tinue his work teaching and helping 3) Submit your claim. the locals, and as a volunteer for the VA has shortened application forms World Relief Program (1981-1991). to reduce paperwork and established priority channels to Rural Burial Initiative Rounding out the all-encompassing process your FDC claim. This means salute, the 70th anniversary Midway they are able to process these claims The Department of Veterans Affairs gala also hosted 16 Jacksonville far more quickly than claims going announced Aug. 1, 2012 that it is Wounded Warriors (Army and Marine through the traditional process. moving forward with a plan to pro- Corps) all from Operation Iraqi Free- vide burial services for Veterans in dom. - An exceptional, moving and If you need time to gather evidence rural areas where there are no avail- memorable event for a spectrum of for your FDC claim, you can get able VA national cemeteries, state patriots. started by locking in an effective Veterans cemeteries or tribal Veter- date with an Informal Claim. By doing ans cemeteries. “VA is committed to so compensation for any subsequent VA Fully Developed claim approval will be retroactive to Ex-POW Bulletin that date. The Informal Claim Claims Program includes the following statement in Sept/Oct 2012 The Fully Developed Claims (FDC) the form of a letter: “I intend to apply 23 from efforts by a small faculty/ (B-26 Marauder); Miroslaw student group charged to de- Hermaszewski (Soyuz 30 and news, continued velop an ongoing aviation heri- Salyut 6); Rhonda Cornum (UB0- improving service to Veterans in tage program, ACSC held the first 60 Black Hawk); Jim McCoy rural areas,” said Secretary of Vet- “Great Moments in Aviation” (CMSAF #6); Leon Frankel (TBM erans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. (later renamed “Gathering of Avenger); Jim Kasler (F-105D “Through an innovative partner- Eagles” (GOE). In 2007, the GOE Thunderchief); “Scrappy” Johnson ship with existing cemeteries, we incorporated and two years later, (YF-104 Starfighter); Robert will be able to ensure burial for became a nonprofit, 501(c) (3). In Gutierrez, Jr. (Combat Controller); Veterans in more locations that 2012, the GOE Foundation began and Hank Fowler, Jr. (F-4C Phan- meet the high standards of na- a partnership with the AF Histori- tom). tional shrines.” Under the Rural cal Research Agency and the Li- Initiative plan, VA will build small brary of Congress’ Veteran’s His- Lt Gen David S. Fadok, USAF, Com- National Veterans Burial Grounds tory Project to record oral histo- mander and President of the Air within existing public or private ries for selected Eagles. The an- University, cited the 2012 GOE cemeteries in rural areas where nual program evolved into a capstone theme, in its 31st year, the unserved Veteran population week-long of teaching interviews as “Adversity, Victory, Legacy”, is 25,000 or less within a 75-mile and various social events between bringing together heroes in the radius. VA plans to open eight Na- aviation pioneers and ACSC class realms of air, space and tional Veterans Burial Grounds members. The GOE also gives an- cyberspace domains. that will serve Veterans in the ar- nual scholarships, funded by do- eas of Fargo, N.D.; Rhinelander, nations and from selling a signed The 2012 Gathering of Eagles Wis.; Cheyenne, Wyo.; Laurel, lithograph hand-signed by the event featured numerous inter- Mont.; Idaho Falls, Idaho; Cedar Eagles for that given year. views, many videotaped for the City, Utah; Calais, Maine; and Elko, oral history project, but also din- Nev. VA officials will announce Some early aviation honorees ners, brunches, a ball, a barbeque, further details about the eight were “Chuck” Yeager, Curtis and flight-line visits to various new burial grounds as informa- LeMay, Jimmy Doolittle, Neil aircraft. Each Eagle was permit- tion becomes available. This new Armstrong; later came Robin ted to invite a special guest to ac- initiative will make VA burial op- Olds, Mike Novosel, “Pappy “ company them, in addition to tions available to more than Boyington, Benjamin O, Davis, Jr., family and others present on-site. 136,000 Veterans and their eli- Robbie Risner, George H. W. Bush, gible dependents. Frank Borman, Eugene Cernan, The four former POWs honored Susan Helms, Wally Schirra, Alan as “Eagles” for 2012: Shepard, “Deke” Slayton, James Honor in a Special Stockdale, John Glenn, Jeremiah Henry P. Fowler, Jr., USAF for 27 Gathering of Eagles Denton, Michael Durant, “Bud” years, F-4 pilot Day. The extraordinary “Roll and Judge Advo- By Alice A. Booher Call” from 1982-2012 shows men cate, had enlisted and women, civilian and military, in the USN in from all over the world. And 1961. On Easter while these aviators all carried a Sunday, March variety of lofty titles and ranks, 26, 1967, LT aviation was the common bond. Fowler was scrambling from Noteworthy is the inclusion of Ubon, Thailand, in support of 90 many former POWs in the annual F-105 Thunderchiefs in a strike recognition. over Hanoi (and the Son Tay Army Supply Area RP-V) when The Air Command and Staff Col- The (June) 2012 Class of the GOE shot down by MiG-21 fighters. lege (ACSC) at Maxwell AFB, AL, in Montgomery, AL, another ex- Captured with a compressed spi- started it in 1980 when Paul W. ceptional group of aviation leg- nal fracture, marched, driven, Tibbets, Jr., pilot of the Enola Gay, ends (and their concomitant air- hanged and stoned in villages, he was invited to speak to a class of craft) were as follows : Ed Saylor ended up at the Hanoi Hilton his experiences. Two years later, (B-25B Mitchell); James Harvey III (Hoa Lo) where he remained for (F-47N Jug); Leo Thorsness (F-105F 2,157 days, being released Febru- Ex-POW Bulletin Thunderchief); Gail Halvorsen (C- ary 18, 1973. Sept/Oct 2012 54 Skymaster); Robert Cardenas 24 (YB-49 Flying Wing); Gloria Heath He would endure 6-1/2 years of they all had the Four-F’s: family, news, continued captivity as a POW to be released friends, fun and faith”. He said Recovering from his injuries, he in March 1973. His second USAF that “just knowing there were completed C-141 Starlifter tran- Cross was for the actions on his other people there kept you go- sition training and served as a 91st Mission, his third for his he- ing”. pilot with the 86th Military Air- roic resistance and leadership un- craft Squadron at Travis AFB. In der torture while a POW. Rhonda L. S. Cornum, started her 1974, he entered law school, military graduating in 1978 and serving At the GOE interview sessions, career in as JAG until retirement in 1991. Kasler echoed Thorsness’ Four-F’s, 1978 as a His military awards include two and said he knew he “had a great medical Silver Stars. family to come home to, and I re- came home with no guilt.” searcher At the GOE interview sessions, with a Fowler said that during his POW Leo K. Thorsness enlisted in the PhD. She time, he kept the armed USAF in January completed medical school in service’s code of conduct fore- 1951 and earned 1986 and went into combat field most in his mind. He described his commission and aerospace medicine arenas, how he came to grips with the three years later completing airborne, air assault challenges that brought as a cap- through the Avia- and flight surgeon training. Her tive. He refused a diplomatic tion Cadet Pro- medical aviation research en- offer to be sent home early on gram. After flying hanced use of helmet mounted the grounds that there were oth- multiple craft, displays in advanced attack heli- ers more deserving. this legendary copters and in pilot performance. Wild Weasel’s heroism during She and her USAF pilot/physician James H. Kasler, the only per- Vietnam Era is well known. On 30 husband Kory also built an experi- son to have been April 1967, just 8 missions short mental aircraft by hand (and still decorated with of the required 100 missions to fly one). Assigned to the 2/229th three USAF successful complete a combat Attack Helicopter Battalion, she Crosses, en- tour, Thorsness, on his second was part of a combat search and listed in the US sortie of the day, was shot down rescue mission on 27 February Army out of In- and captured by the North Viet- 1991, endeavoring to recover a dianapolis in namese after battling MiG aircraft USAF pilot (Bill Andrews, ironi- May 1944 and and evading 53 SAMs. He would cally a USAFA classmate of her flew combat suffer through captivity in camps husband Kory) over Iraq during missions over Japan as a such as Hanoi Hilton, Heartbreak Desert Storm when the UH-60 on tailgunner in a Boeing B-29 Hotel, Skid Row and The Zoo. On which she was one of an 8-mem- Superfortress. Released in 1946, his return CONUS in 1973, he was ber crew, was shot down by Iraqi he attended Butler University, en- awarded the Medal of Honor (MOH) anti-aircraft fire. Cornum, one of tered the USAF as a student pi- for heroic actions on missions only 3 survivors of the crash, was lot in 1950, and was almost im- flown just 11 days prior his own taken captive by the Iraqi Repub- mediately shipped overseas to shoot-down and capture. He re- lic Guard, with two broken arms, the 4th Fighter Interceptor Wing, tired from the USAF in 1973 with a severely damaged leg, and gun- Korea where he became an Ace; nearly 5,000 flying hours. He be- shot and shrapnel wounds in her and then numerous other loca- came a Washington State Senator shoulder/back and head, she was tions. In early 1966, he was as- (1988-1992), during which time he repatriated on 6 March 1991. Af- signed to fly combat as Opera- urged the federal government to ter repatriation, Cornum became tions Officer of the 354th at release information about 30,000 the first medical officer to gradu- Takhli AFB, Thailand. On June soldiers listed as POW or MIA in ate from ACSC and continued her 29, 1966, he led the 355th Tacti- conflicts dating back to WWII. medical training and research in cal Fighter Wing in one of the the field of urology. She com- most successful strikes of the At the June 2012 GOE interview ses- manded the 28th Combat Support war, with virtual destruction of sions, Thorsness wore but de- Hospital at Ft. Bragg, deployed as the heavily defended Hanoi pe- clined to discuss his MOH, but told Medical Task Force commander troleum storage complex. Five stories of his life as POW. He said st he distracted himself by monitor- weeks later, on his 91 mission, Ex-POW Bulletin ing the conversations of the POWs, he was shot down in an attempt Sept/Oct 2012 to rescue a downed wingman. and through this, realized that 25 num and Sgt. Daniel Stemaris, Patriots Point spokeswoman news, continued two of the three survivors of the Ashley Smith. But retired Maj. Black Hawk crash. During the in- Gen. James Livingston, a South in Bosnia, and became com- terview sessions, Cornum spoke Carolina recipient of the medal, mander of Landstuhl Regional of his extraordinary skill (with wants to move quickly. “This is Medical Center, Germany. BG nonexistent medicine, negligible the final opportunity to establish Cornum recently completed her regular electricity and under oth- a lasting legacy for the Medal of Army career as Director of the erwise horrible conditions), and Honor while we still have recipi- Comprehensive Soldier Fitness of his consummate profession- ents alive from World War II, Ko- Program, its’ Center developing alism during that time. She was rea, Vietnam and the War on Ter- psychological strengthening and proud to introduce Dr. Habboush ror,” he said. resilience training to aid military as an example of former enemies members in surviving difficult now friends. He now has a home situations. in Amman, Jordan but was on a VA/DoD Collaboration visit CONUS. The GOE group wel- During the GOE interview ses- Lawmakers frustrated at years of comed Dr. Habboush with the sions, Cornum briefly described limited collaboration between de- chance to speak, and to introduce her captivity but also exhibited fense and Veterans Affairs offi- his wife Haifa, whom he had her usual élan by noting that “suf- cials pressed the secretaries of brought to meet his new friends fering is stupid, but whining is those departments 25 JUL to en- and to be witness to this remark- worse… So make everything as sure that servicemembers’ lives able activity. good as you can make it and then aren’t lost to paperwork mistakes move on. When you think you and red tape. “We’ve been talking The Montgomery Advertiser news- are going to die, you realize be- for decades about this. ... We have paper, serially reporting the GOE ing a POW isn’t as bad as it could to break down the bureaucracy,” events, articulately summed it up be.” said Rep. Bob Filner-CA). “People by saying “Honor” seemed to be are dying because these systems the word of the week. In Cornum’s case, the GOE was an aren’t integrated.” Veterans Af- opportunity for a unique person- fairs Secretary Eric Shinseki and al, professional and utterly re- ongressional Medal Defense Secretary Leon Panetta markable public acknowledge- C made a rare joint appearance on ment. As noted, each Eagle was of Honor Museum Capitol Hill to reiterate their permitted to invite a special Standing on the hanger deck of promise to deliver lifelong care guest to be hosted by the ACSC. the World War II aircraft carrier for troops, calling it a moral and In Cornum’s case, her special Yorktown, officials with the Patri- national security imperative. But guest was Dr. Mudhafar Hab- ots Point Naval and Maritime lawmakers said that despite years boush. Dr. Habboush, [with a Museum announced plans 1 AUG of promise, the two agencies medical degree from University for a $100 million Medal of haven’t found solutions to some of Baghdad (1961), a Licentiate in Honor Museum honoring the re- of the most basic problems fac- Medicine, member of apothecary cipients of the nation’s highest ing troops. In the first ever com- societies in London, Fellow of the award for valor. The museum on bined hearing of the House Royal College of Surgeons of En- high ground on Charleston Har- Armed Services and House Vet- gland (1968), Masters in Ortho- bor would replace a smaller one erans Affairs committees, repre- pedics (University of Liverpool, aboard the carrier and make Pa- sentatives pressed the secretar- 1973), and Fellow of the Ameri- triots Point a national destina- ies to explain why lifelong digi- can College of Orthopedics (1994), tion, said Ray Chandler, the chair- tal military medical records are and designer of numerous ortho- man of the Patriots Point Devel- still five years away, why suicide pedic prostheses and tools (some opment Authority. The authority numbers continue to mount, why of which are named for him)], was has signed a letter of understand- troops continue to be confused also a former Brigadier General ing with the Congressional Medal by their veterans benefits, and in the Iraqi Army. At the time of of Honor Society to build a mu- why the departments’ work to- Desert Storm, Dr. Habboush was seum “honoring the highest he- gether hasn’t produced better re- the orthopedic surgeon of the roes of this country,” he said. No sults. “Collaboration and coop- Rasheed Military Hospital in money from Patriots Point will be eration between VA and DOD have Baghdad. He took care of Cor- used. Instead, a national founda- never been more important, and tion will be created to lease the I think for the next two decades Ex-POW Bulletin ... this will be the work of the na- Sept/Oct 2012 property, raise funds and build the museum. There’s no specific tion,” Shinseki said. 26 timetable for completion, said missing, and to many other in- road project to build the Bridge news, continued terested parties for wider distri- on the River Kwai in Thailand for The Captain James A. Lovell Fed- bution and educational viewing. 3 ½ years. On repatriation, he dis- eral Health Care Center is the covered his brother had also been nation’s first fully integrated fed- There has long been abundant a POW. Bassett was held during the eral health care center (FHCC) be- available footage of war, includ- bitter winter of 1950-1951 in the tween the U.S. Department of Vet- ing some showing POWs being North Korean POW Camp 5. He erans Affairs and the Department taken prisoner, in captivity, and later taught high school history of Defense. Established on Oct. 1, during repatriations. But more for 20 years. 2010, the facility integrated all than any other prior film, Stolen medical care with a single com- Freedom’s programmers must Kushner, a surgeon and sole sur- bined VA and Navy mission, serv- have gone through hundreds of vivor of his helicopter crash, was ing military members, Veterans, hours of film, because they have befriended by a farmer who be- military family members and re- exquisitely isolated the exact mo- trayed him to the Viet Cong af- tirees. The center is located at: ments of appropriate footage ter feeding him. Moved from 3001 North Green Bay Road North from which to illustrate the ac- camp to camp for 5/1/2 years, he Chicago, IL 60064; (847) 688-1900. tions or circumstances actually ended up in the Hanoi Hilton. He www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/ discussed by the respective returned to active practice. POWs. It is almost surreal to see the very raw footage taken on one Norrington, shot down during a Stolen Freedom of dozens of buses during Opera- bombing mission in May 1968, tion Homecoming, at Clark Air Re-Captured in Film Base, when Giles Norrington’s by Alice A. Booher POW bracelet is handed through Those who attended the recent 2012 the window on a rolled paper on American Ex-POW Convention were his exact bus. able to view a DVD “played on a loop” in the Hospitality Suite of The technique and unique skill an extraordinary POW documen- with which this marriage of film tary “Prisoners of War: Stolen and text has been precisely imple- Freedom”, featuring four former mented lends ultimate credibil- POWs: CPO William Ingram, USN; ity to the entire process. The well Cpl Richard Bassett, USA; COL Hal edited content and articulate re- Kushner, USA and CAPT Giles sponses by the four POWs are ut- Norrington, USN. The film has terly compelling but never over- and severely injured, was held in been widely shown throughout extended. The men are seated in isolation until moved where two Florida, its state of origin, and on a professional but relaxed fash- cellmates could help him ad- some PBS stations and at veter- ion, and tell their stories in dress basic human needs, and ans’ meetings, but will hopefully straight-forward but never dispas- then into a large room with 56 now be seen nationwide to great sionate words that may have been other navigators and pilots dur- acclaim. [At Convention, it shared modestly scripted for concise- ing his nearly 5 years captivity. the “loop” with “The Tragedy of ness, but if so, the content was He returned to active work with Bataan”, a documentary by Jan clearly from the hearts and civilian and military communi- Thompson who father was a POW, minds of the men themselves. ties including AIDS awareness and narrated by Alex Baldwin.] With the benefit of hindsight and and Red Cross. The inside cov- a good deal of time on which to ers of the DVD generously repro- The 45 minute long documentary reflect on their respective expe- duce some of Norrington’s 32 may be one of the best made to riences, their observations and pen and ink drawings of captiv- include three wars, four men and insights, sometimes stated with ity. what the subheader sums up as pithy idiom, are simply extraor- “One Mission: Stay Alive”. Credit dinary. It is also rewarding to see Stolen Freedom is a well spent re- must be given to the Director, demonstrated evidence that all flective use of time for everyone, Eric Flagg, and to the producer four men returned with resilience even those who are already too and cheerleader, Michael to full and meaningful post-cap- painfully aware of the POW expe- Rothfeld, the latter of whom gra- tivity lives and works. rience. ciously made another copy of the Ex-POW Bulletin DVD available to the AxPOW Con- Ingram, taken POW when the Japa- Sept/Oct 2012 vention when the first one went nese sunk the USS HOUSTON in March 1942, worked on the rail- 27 forced to bail out and Long Overdue Stardom was quickly captured. By Alice A. Booher The US and then Presi- dent Eisenhower, think- ing he had been killed, denied it has been a spy mission and called his flight weather-related, until Soviet Premier Khrushchev pa- raded Powers be- Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton A. fore the camera along with Schwartz presents the Silver Star plane footage. awarded posthumously to Air Force Capt. Francis Gary Powers to the Powers was tried by the So- captain’s grandchildren, Francis Gary viets for espionage, con- “Trey” Powers III and Lindsey Barry, victed and sentenced to 10 during a ceremony in the Pentagon, June years imprisonment. In a 15, 2012. Capt. Powers was shot down swap in the middle of over the Soviet Union on May 1, 1960, Berlin’s Glienicke Bridge for and was honored for the heroism he displayed while held prisoner by the So- Soviet spy Colonel Rudolf viets. The captain was released in 1962. Abel, Powers was released He died in a 1977 helicopter crash. February 10, 1962, some 21 months after being taken prisoner. After extensive debriefings by the whole of CIA program, the USAF posthu- Washington, in 1964 Powers was mously awarded Powers the POW awarded the CIA Intelligence Star Medal and in 2000, he received his He was just a KY/VA/TN kid who for Valor. The USAF however went overdue DFC. Finally, in mid-June enlisted in the USAF in 1950, flew back on an earlier promise to re- 2012, 52 years after his U-2 flight F-84 Thunderjet Fighters and instate him to full officer status, was shot down by the Soviets, the went to Korea. In 1956, he joined and to credit his CIA time, and Powers family received his Silver the CIA, which was then looking refused to award him the Distin- Star. His son, “Jr.”, founder of the for USAF pilots to guide their new guished Flying Cross (DFC) that Cold War Museum in Vint Hill, U-2, a high altitude reconnais- he had earned in 1957. Power VA, had petitioned the Air Force sance plane program. Capable of worked for Lockheed Aircraft as Board of Corrections to award the flying higher than Soviet fighters a test pilot (1963-1970). He died Silver Star, noting that the award of the day, CIA pilots entered the in 1977 at age 47 when his Los had been given to two other re- cockpit without ID and a suicide Angeles television traffic helicop- con pilots shot down by a Soviet pin. However, the Soviets had enter crashed due to a malfunction- fighter over the Barents Sea two hanced their shooting capability ing fuel gauge. He was buried at months after Powers was shot by May 1, 1960, when Francis Gary Arlington National Cemetery. down. The citation noted in part Powers took off from Peshawar, that for 107 days, he had been in- Pakistan to fly across the Soviet terrogated, harassed, and endured Union and land at Boda, Norway. unmentionable hardships on a He was scheduled to return to continuous basis…yet steadfastly Incirlik AFB on a different route, refused to give up sensitive de- again completely across the fense information or be exploited USSR. Four hours into the flight, for propaganda purposes. His son a Soviet surface to air missile notes that often in his lifetime, (SAM) severely damaged his U-2 when asked how high he was fly- near Sverdlovsk, and he was ing on May 1, 1960, Powers would respond, “Not high enough”. GBU Ex-POW Bulletin and welcome home POW and Sil- ver Star awardee Francis Gary Sept/Oct 2012 In 1998, after declassified government records confirmed that he Powers. 28 had been part of a joint Air Force- American Ex-Prisoners of War

To apply by mail, call Ex-POW Bulletin AXPOW National Headquarters Sept/Oct 2012 817-649-2979 29 AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR VOLUNTARY FUNDING PROGRAM

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

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

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Please make checks payable to American Ex-Prisoners of War - Voluntary Funding Mail contributions to: National Headquarters American Ex-Prisoners of War 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010

Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2012 30 In memory of John Hutchins, by In memory of Wilbur ‘Sam’ contributions Sally Morgan Dressel, by Mary Hoffman In memory of John Hutchins, by In memory of Wilbur ‘Sam’ Dressel, Christopher Cox by Jaimie D’Angelo In memory of John Hutchins, by James & June Englehorn LEGISLATIVE FUND In memory of John Hutchins, by Mrs. In memory of John W Conway, Jr., Joan VanWyk by the Department of Maryland In memory of John Hutchins, by Ned Please send donations to: Hedrick MEDSEARCH National Headquarters, 3201 East In memory of John Hutchins, by Art In memory of Florence C Smith, Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, & Joy Myers by the Department of Maryland Arlington, TX 76010. In memory of John Hutchins, by Joe In memory of Lt Col Garry J Anloff, & Lillian Cucarola Jr., founder of the MedSearch pro- Checks must be made payable to In memory of John Hutchins, by Mrs. gram, by his daughter Patricia Sand- AXPOW or American Ex-Prisoners Amy B Adams ers of War You can also make a In memory of John Hutchins, by donation with a credit card Joan & Lawrence Kalstein VOLUNTARY FUNDING (MasterCard or Visa). Just call 817- In memory of John Hutchins, by Jill Ann Autrey, Yuma AZ 649-2979. Thank you! Pankey Scheer and Scott Scheer Chuck & Audie Hartney, Wichita Falls In memory of John Hutchins, by Dor- TX GENERAL FUND othy Hicks Donald Cooley, Watsonville CA Department of New Jersey In memory of John Hutchins, by Elizabeth Wilson, Sioux City IA Garden State Chapter #1 Phyllis Hutchins Gloria Myers, Walnut IA Inland Empire Chapter of California In memory of John Hutchins, by Greater Atlanta Chapter, GA Norman Gibbs, Banning CA Northeast Colorado Chapter Henry Skubik, Massapequa NY Pierre JJ Kennedy, Farmington CT In memory of John Hutchins, by Les John Gatens, Fair Lawn NJ In memory of Anthony & Loraine Jenkins Kachadour Avedisian, Cranston RI DeBenedictis, by Susan Knapp In memory of Joseph Cseh, by Lettie Larry Carastro, Fernandine Beach FL In memory of Dr. George Cseh Maurice Markworth, Palmyra PA Economos, by Diane & Cosa Plantes In memory of Kenneth Gordon, by Robert Smith, Tomahawk WI In memory of Fred Broussard, by Randy Gordon William Blaher, Flemington NJ Marvin & Josephine Roslansky In memory of Lawrence ‘Larry’ In memory of Louis J Staudenmeier, In memory of George Economos, Dwyer, by Adeline Robinson by Margaret Whalen by Laura Tierney In memory of Leo L. Nonn, by son, In memory of Louis J Staudenmeier, In memory of George Economos, Richard Nonn by Maris Abbene by Sharon & Clyde Faulkner In memory of Louis J. Staudenmeier, In memory of George Economos, by Bard Davol, Inc. The Legacy of your love by Lisa Davis & John Ottenheimer In memory of Louis J. Staudenmeier, can live on after… In memory of Jack Shortt, “We miss by Keystone Mercy Health you, Daddy”, by his family In memory of Louis J. Staudenmeier, An important way you can help en- In memory of John Hutchins, by by Pat & Sue Walker sure that the American Ex-Prisoners Gordon Scheer In memory of Metro ‘Michael’ of War is always there for returning In memory of John Hutchins, by Kitsock, by Carl Ney Jr POWs, their families and their dependents is through your will or living Polly & Bob Snow In memory of my pilot Samuel trust. It’s very simple to make a be- In memory of John Hutchins, by Vir- Dawson Rose, by Holley Midgley quest to the American Ex-Prisoners of ginia VerPloeg In memory of Norma Gordon, by In memory of John Hutchins, by War. Just add the following to your Randy Gordon will or living trust: “I give, devise and Susanne Jackson In memory of Richard Brown, by In memory of John Hutchins, by bequeath to the American Ex-Prison- Harold & Gloria Brick ers of War, 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Chuck & Colleen Lautenbach In memory of Wilbur ‘Sam’ Dressel, In memory of John Hutchins, by Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010, the sum by Teresa Rolfe of $______or ______percent of the rest, John & Barbara Casson In memory of Wilbur ‘Sam’ residue and remainder of my estate.” In memory of John Hutchins, by Dressel, by John & Gladys Keith Lautenbach Hofmockel Please take a few minutes of your In memory of John Hutchins, by In memory of Wilbur ‘Sam’ time to help. Ex-POW Bulletin Mary Jane Parkinson Dressel, by Beth Bolton Sept/Oct 2012 In memory of John Hutchins, by In memory of Wilbur ‘Sam’ Arlyn & HC Cox Dressel, by Jane Hofmockel 31 new members

National Headquarters 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010; (817) 649-2979 [email protected]

New Members ROBERT LANGNER II “Welcome Home” JACQUELINE JAMES T ‘JIM’ JOHNSON TUCSON AZ JENNIFER L SON OF ROBERT LANGNER, ETO SAYRE OK GRANDSON OF PNC JACK RICHARD NONN WARNER NORTHRIDGE CA SON OF LEO NONN, ETO PAUL EDWARDS EMMANUEL A LANDICHO CARROLLTON TX PANGASINAN PHILIPPINES DUANE ‘BUCK’ BROTEN GRANDSON OF LYMAN P GRANDSON OF TOMAS R MONICA G EDWARDS, POW IN SPAN/AMER LANDICHO PRINCETON MN ARMY CO A 17 INF REG 7 DIV IN THE TRENCHES 7/6/53 TO 7/ 10/53 The Last Great Hurrah Farewell Luncheon for the Ocean County Chapter in New Jersey Shown: Commander Charlie Susino, PNC Zach Roberts, NC Susino with Chapter Commander Frank Koehler, the bottle of wine given to each guest, Mae Koehler, Joan & Vince Sacco with Dave Drummond and the Chapter flag on display

Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2012 32 taps

Please submit taps notices to: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664 1943 in the Famous Schweinfurt, Washington National Cathedral. PNC Herman Eugene Molen Germany Raid where we lost 60 He was instrumental in working August 14, 1923-June 28, 2012 B-17 Bombers with ten of our to get the National Charter and Mabank, Texas men on each plane. He was taken was a signatory on it. Over the prisoner and was incarcerated for years, Herman went to Washing- 19 months except when he es- ton DC to meet with several Presi- caped twice and lived to tell dents and members of Congress about it. The movie Stalag XVII B to help get better benefits and rec- with William Holden playing ognition for their bravery in the Herman’s part was about his es- different wars they served. cape. After the war, he came back to the USA living in Las Vegas and He was a member of several or- continued his mission to help ganizations, SSMA, 305th Bomb his fellow veterans and Ex-POW’s. Group, Texas Barb Wire Chapter, American Ex-Prisoners of War, Herman wrote a memoir of his VFW’s in several locations, Stalag experiences while a WWII POW, XVII B, Mighty 8th Air Force and with a collection of pictures that East Texas Ex-POW’s. is treasured by many. He was well known and requested often to Surviving are daughter, Sharon & speak at schools, churches, Joe Warren of Eureka, CA, daugh- Herman graduated from Merit VFW’s and organizations that ter, Jeannie Munoz of Fontana, CA, High School in Merit, TX. He then were interest in the history of daughter, Marsha & Mark went to college in Decatur, TX to WWII and their missions. He gave Pennartz of Mechanicsburg, PA, study to be a Baptist preacher. interviews to many TV and news- daughter, JoAnn Molen of WWII started while he was in col- paper people. Mabank, TX, 7 grandchildren, 12 lege and he felt called to serve his great-grandchildren, brother, country—and this he did unself- He was National Commander for Ford Molen of Greenville, TX, sis- ishly for the rest of his life. He AXPOW in 1979-1980. As Com- ter, Billie Mayo of Arlington, TX, served in the European Conflict mander, he represented AXPOW at sister, Mary McCullough of Ar- and on his last, 25th mission be- the POW/MIA Recognition Day lington, TX., many nieces, neph- fore coming back to the States, Memorial Service held at the ews, cousins and friends. he was shot down on October 14,

ANGLEN, Mary Alice 86, formerly of BARENKAMP, Walter, passed away 2012. During WWII, he served with Columbia, MO died March 12, 2012. May 15, 2012. Walter served with the the 379th BG; his plane was shot She married George Wesley Anglen 1st Battalion (also known as the “sac- down and he was captured and held on Sept. 16, 1950, and, after 59 years rificed battalion”), 377th Regiment, until liberation. His loving wife, of marriage, he preceded her in 95th Infantry Division. He was cap- Nancy, survives him; he also leaves 2 death. He served with the 413th BS, tured in heavy fighting around the daughters, 2 grandchildren and their 96th BG, and a POW in Stalags Luft 3, French town of Metz, and was a POW families. 7A and 13. in Stalag 12A. His beloved wife, Mary, survives him. BLUMENSCHEIN, Herman M., age ANGLETON, Stanley E. of Sun City 93, of Marysville, OH died Jan. 30, West, AZ passed away on May 8, BARNDT, Irene N., of Dillsburg, PA, 2012. He was captured while serv- 2012. Stan was a long time member widow of ex-POW Elmer J. died Aug. ing in the Army during WWII…held as of the Agua Fria Chapter. During 3, 2012. She was 86 and a member a POW for 8 months until liberation. World War II, he served in the Army of the Camp Hill Chapter, AXPOW. Survivors include 3 nieces, 3 neph- Air Corps European Theater Opera- She leaves 2 sons, 1 daughter, 7 ews, grand-nieces and –nephews and tions, 376th BG, 514th BS. After his grandchildren and 3 great-grandchil- great-grands. capture, he was held in 17B. Stan is dren. survived by his wife Hazel. Ex-POW Bulletin BAUCOM, Cyrus Howard, of Sept/Oct 2012 Pinehurst, NC passed away April 18, 33 CASH, Dorothy, of Fairview, Texas, Battle of the Bulge and was held taps continued... died July 12, 2012. An AXPOW life until liberated by Russian forces. Carl member since 1989, she was also a was a member of the Manatee Chap- member of the Dallas Metroplex ter, AXPOW. Survivors include his BOEGER, Erving, of Gridley, CA, Chapter. She is survived by her hus- wife, Ruth, 2 daughters, 7 grandchil- died Dec. 23, 2011. Erving was in band of 65 years, Robert, an ex-POW dren and 7 great-grandchildren. Cannon Co, 110th Reg., 28th Div. He held in Germany. was captured in the Battle of the DWYER, Lawrence J., of Muscatine, Bulge and held in Stalag 4B. He is CONNELLY, Dora of Gothenburg, NE, IA passed away June 20, 2012. Dur- survived by his wife, Mary Ann. died September 30, 2011. Dora was ing WWII, he served with the 28th Di- the wife of Albert. Both AXPOW life vision, US Army. He was captured and BOWSHER, Walter Allen, Jr., of member since 1988, they were also held in 4B until liberation. Larry was Mountain Home, AR passed away members of the Cornhusker Chapter an active member of AXPOW, serving Aug. 9, 2012. He served with the US of Grand Island. She is survived by in state offices and most recently as Marine First Defense Battalion on her husband of 69 years, Albert. National Director. He leaves his lov- Wake Island in 1941. After attack by ing wife, Mary. the Japanese, the garrison was forced DAIGLE, Maurice, 86, of Auburn, ME to surrender. Walter was a POW for died July 9, 2011. He served in the ECONOMOS, George, 92, of 44 months in China and Japan. He was Army with the 104th Inf. Reg., 26th Div. Bethesda, MD died June 30, 2012. a life member of AXPOW. Survivors He was held until liberation. He While serving with the AAF during include 1 granddaughter, 2 leaves 2 daughters, 1 son, 9 grand- WWII, his plane was shot down; he grandsons and a host of extended children, 16 great-grandchildren and was captured and held in Stalag 17B family and friends. a large, loving extended family. for just over one year. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Bessie BOYETT, John E., of Amarillo, TX DANIELS, John F. age 91, of Mt. “Kassie”, 2 children, 1 sister and 3 passed away July 23, 2012. In WWII, Vernon, MO passed away February grandchildren. he was in the Army Air Corps sta- 15, 2012. John retired from the Air tioned in Foggia, Italy. His plane was Force after 20 years of service serv- ELLIS, John Dean, of Elk Park, NC shot down over Austria; he was cap- ing in Europe, Vietnam and Korea. died July 25, 2012 at the age of 88. tured and held in Stalag Luft 4 until John was preceded in death by his During WWII he served with the 106th May 1945. He married Mary in June wife, Margaret. Inf. He was captured at St. Vith dur- 1943. He and Mary were active mem- ing the Battle of the Bulge. His wife bers of Texas Panhandle Chapter of DOWDING, Robert L., of Seward, NE of 62 years, Annie Ruth, survives him; the American Ex Prisoners of War. He died July 5, 2012, at age 93. He was also 3 daughters, 1 son, 2 sisters, 10 leaves his wife, Mary, and 2 daugh- captured while serving with the Army grandchildren and 7 great-grandchil- ters, 1 son and 1 “adopted” son; also Air Corps Footlocker 5th (HQ), on the dren. 3 sisters, 6 nieces and 7 nephews, island of Mindano, Philippines Is- all of whom will miss him greatly. lands. He was a prisoner for 3 ½ ESSIG, Albert R., of Waco, TX died years in the P.I. and Japan. Bob cred- June 18, 2012. He was 85. He joined BROUSSARD, Frederick, member of ited his survival to his faith in God. the Army at age 16, serving with Co the Barb Wire Chapter (WI) died July Bob also was the co-author of “A Few I, 504th Parachute Infantry Reg., 82nd 29, 2012. Fred served in the Army Survived”. He is survived by 2 chil- Airborne Div. Al was captured dur- (120th Reg., Co A) during WWII; he was dren and 3 grandchildren. ing fighting in Holland; he was held captured after being wounded in for 7 months. Survivors include his Bardenberg, Germany. Survivors in- DRESSEL, Wilbur Samuel, of Mon- loving wife of nearly 49 years, clude two daughters, extended fam- roe, WA, died May 19, 2012. He was Rosemarie, 2 daughters, 1 son and 9 ily, and friends. a B-24 bombardier, shot down over grandchildren. Italy on his third mission. He was held CARLISLE, Nancy, of Houston, TX in Stalag Luft 3. FLETCHER, Ben Payne, of passed away July 16, 2012. She was Lynchburg, TN passed away March 86. Nancy as the wife of ex-POW DuBOISE, Albert, of Webster, WI, 24, 2012. He was captured while James for 58 years; she is survived th died in August, 2012. An AXPOW life serving with the 106 Inf. Div. during by 2 sons, 1 daughter, 1 brother, 1 member since 1988, he was with Co the Battle of the Bulge and held un- sister, 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grand- A, 192nd Tank, and was held by the til liberation on May 6, 1945. Ben is sons and many nieces and nephews. Japanese in Camp O’Donnell, survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Cabanatuan and Camp 17. He is sur- Jo, 2 sons, 1 daughter, 5 grandchil- vived by his wife, Susan. dren and 5 great-grandchildren. He was a member of the Alvin C York Ex-POW Bulletin DUENKI, Carl W., 89, of Sun City Chapter, AXPOW. Center, FL passed away March 14, Sept/Oct 2012 2012. He was captured during the 34 2010. Her husband, ex-POW Thomas, 8th AF, 339th BS, 96th BG. He was held taps continued... preceded her in death. in Stalag Lufts VI and IV until liberation. John was the current commander FRIBIS, John, age 93, of St. Louis, MO HAYES, Roy Edgar “Gabby”, of Win- of the Dept. of Colorado (6 years), passed away March 16, 2012. He ter Haven, FL died March 8, 2012. He Adjutant of the Mile High Chapter served in the Army (L Co., 157th Reg., was 92. A member of the 4th Marines (26 years) and Adjutant/Treasurer of 45th Inf. Div.) during WII, and was a (North China Marines, Old Shanghai the Mile High Chapter for 14 years. POW in Germany in Stalags 12-A and Marines) he was sent to defend the He leaves his beloved wife, Phyllis, 1 11-B after being captured during a Philippines; he was captured on son, 1 daughter and 5 grandchildren. battle in France. John was a past com- Corregidor and held for 3 ½ years, He was a good friend and will be mander of the St. Louis Chapter, surviving POW camps, the hell ship missed by all who knew him. AXPOW. Mati Mati Maru and slave labor. His beloved wife of 65 years, Vera, 2 JACOBS, O’Neal Jr., 90, a member of GANZ, William R., 91, of Pineville, daughters, 4 grandchildren 7 great- the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter, died NC died July 21, 2012. He was a grandchildren and 1 sister survive July 8, 2012. He served in the Euro- member of the 486th BS, 340th BG, him. pean Theater of Operations—2nd Ar- 12th AF. He was shot down over Italy, mored, 17th Armored Engineers. He captured and spent the rest of the HOUGHTON, Harold J., 87, of Par- was held in Stalag IIB. He is survived war in Stalag Luft 1 near Barth in ish, NY passed away March 4, 2012. by his wife of 60 years, Eileen, and Northern Germany. He is survived by th th He served with the 15 AF, 450 BG, three sons. his loving wife of 63 years, Bettye, 1 st 721 BS; he was shot down over Hun- son and 2 daughters. gary and captured. He was held in JACOBSON, Florence, of Plano, Luft III until liberation. Survivors in- Texas, died August 13, 2012. She was GRAHAM, Richard B, age 89, of Co- clude his wife of 66 years, Barbara, the wife of Harold Jacobson, POW lumbus, Ohio died July 18. He was 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 3 of the Germans and a member of the in the 106 Div, 423rd Reg. Anti Tank great-grandchildren. Dallas Metroplex chapter. Co. captured in the Battle of the Bulge. His wife Doris, two sons, four HUFF, James E., of Napoleon, OH JACOBSON, Lyle E., 87, of Canon grandsons and a great-grandson sur- died May 31, 2012. He was 92. He City, Colorado, passed away April 23, vive him. was stationed in the Philippines with 2012. He served in WWII with Com- the AAF when WWII began; he sur- pany “F” – 179th Infantry, 45th Division GREGG, L. Len, age 88, of vived the battle of the Philippines, Warrensburg, MO passed away De- in the European Theater. Lyle was the Bataan Death March and spent cember 18, 2011. He served with the wounded by gunshot in action on the entire war in Japan in slave labor 15th AF, 483rd BG during WWII and September 1, 1944, captured by the camps. Jim was a life member of was shot down three times over Ger- German Army and held until libera- AXPOW and ADBC. He leaves his many in 12 missions. He was cap- tion. Lyle is survived by his wife of wife, Anella, 3 daughters, 2 sons, 10 tured on his 12th mission, and held 66 years, Edna, 1 daughter, 2 grand- grandchildren, 19 great-grandchil- at Stalag 7A in Germany. He is sur- daughters, and 4 great-grandsons. dren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. vived by his wife Louise and other family members. KENNEMER, Dorothy, loving wife of HUREAUX, Carol M, of Roseville, CA, ex-POW Otis (2nd Inf. Div., 9th Reg., Co. passed away July 9, 2012. She was GUTHRIE, Marvin, of Sun City West, C) died March 26, 2012. She was a 85, a life member of the Alaska AZ passed away May 20, 2012. He long-time member of AXPOW. In ad- Chapter, and was the wife of Wm. E. was a member of the Agua Fria Chap- dition to her husband, she leaves 2 (Bill) Hureaux. He was a member of ter, Sun City, AZ. During World War children and 3 stepchildren. the 35th Inf. division, 320th Reg. K Co. II, he was in the Army Air Corps 459th She is survived by her husband, 2 BG. Marvin is survived by his wife, KENNY, Peter, of Valencia, PA, died children, 6 grandchildren, and 7 great Faye, and two children. March 1, 2012. While serving in the grandchildren. 306th BG as a navigator, he was shot HAMPTON, Elsie G., 88, a very ac- down March 27, 1944, captured at HUTCHINS, John S., of Centennial, tive member of the Greater Greens- sea by the Germans, and held in CO died boro Chapter, AXPOW, passed away Stalag Luft 1 until liberation. He is July 3, July 1, 2012. She was the wife of 70 survived by his wife of 74 years, 2012 at years of ex-POW Raymond (US Army, Genevieve. the age 1st Div., 26th Inf.). In addition to her of 88. He husband, she leaves 1 daughter, 1 KIRBY, Shirley, 84, of Terre Haute, was cap- son, 8 grandchildren, 4 great-grand- IN passed away May 28, 2012. She tured children and their families. while Ex-POW Bulletin serving HAUSKINS, Doris “Darlyne”, 85, with the Sept/Oct 2012 Jonesburg, MO passed away April 25, 35 MURRAY, Leonard T “Bud”, 87, of various camps until liberation. He taps continued... Plainville, CT died July 19, 2012. He leaves his devoted wife of 65 years, th th was the widow of Eugene (ex-POW, served with Co. K, 320 Reg., 35 Div. Helen, 1 son, 2 grandchildren, 1 captured in Italy). Shirley was the his- He was captured in France and held brother and their families. He was a torian for the Dept. of Indiana, char- in Stalags 12A and 7A. Bud was a member of Neglected Heroes Chap- ter member of the West Central Indi- life member of the Connecticut Chap- ter, AXPOW. ana. She leaves 4 sons and their fami- ter, AXPOW. He leaves 1 son, 1 sis- lies. ter, grandchildren and great-grand- PEIFFER, Ernest H, of Millstadt, IL children. died May 3, 2012. During WWII, he th th LITTLE, Edward of Webster Groves, served with the 8 AF, 390 BG. He th MO passed away in June, 2012, at PALMER, Barbara of Fresno, CA was captured on his 25 mission and the age of 96. He was a POW in Lufts passed away in July 2012. She was a held in Stalag Lufts IV and VI. Survi- 4 and 1 from May 12, 1944-May 13, member of the Fresno Chapter, vors include his daughter. 1945 while serving with the 93rd BG. AXPOW. He is survived by his spouse W. Jean PERNU, Wilha, of Visalia, CA passed and other family members. PALMERTON, Elwyn F., of away in July 2012. She was a mem- Ransomville, NY died June 27, 2012. ber of the Fresno Chapter, AXPOW. LOVELL, Paul J, Sr., of Bridgeport, He was 91. During WWII, he served th th WV died July 7, 2012. He was 101 with the 8 AF, 448 BG. He was cap- QUINN, Patrick V., 87, of Burbank, years old and is believed to be the tured in Germany and held in Stalag IL died July 8, 2012. He served with th nd oldest living WWII POW in the US. He VIIA. His wife, Lois, survives him; he L Company, 38 Infantry, 2 Infantry was a member of the Barbed Wire also leaves 2 sons, 2 daughters, 5 Division in Korea. He was captured Mountaineer Chapter #1. During grandchildren and 6 great-grandchil- by the Chinese in February 1951 and WWII, he served in the Army; he was dren. repatriated in August 1953 from captured in the Battle of the Bulge. Camp 1, North Korea. He was a vol- He leaves 1 brother, 1 daughter, 1 PARDUE, J C, 94, survivor of the unteer at Hines VAMC in Chicago son, 2 grandchildren and 3 great- Bataan Death March, died June 25, with over 4000 hours of dedicated grandchildren. 2012 in Monroe, Louisiana. He joined service and a member of the Korean the Army Air Corps in 1939. When War Ex-POW Association and AXPOW. LOWE, Evelyn, formerly of Texas, Pearl Harbor was bombed, he was Patrick is survived by his wife Ann, a died July 14, 2012. Evelyn was the sent to the Philippines to defend the son, daughter, a brother, and their widow of Charles Lowe. She had Bataan Peninsula as a member of the families. th th moved to Colonial Heights, VA. She 17 Sq. of the 27 BG. He spent three and Charles were active members of years in Japanese POW camps, RAY, Jewell, of Woodstock GA, died Texas’ Capital City Chapter. O’Donnell and Cabanatuan. When August 9, 2012. An AXPOW life mem- Hiroshima was bombed in 1945, J C ber since 1991, she is survived by McCARTY, Marian, age 99, passed was a slave laborer in the mills in her husband of 66 years, James away in February 10, 2012. She was Kyushu Japan. J C is survived by his “Rookie” Ray, a POW held by the the wife of Howard McCarty (106th wife of sixty-six years, Demaris, two Japanese. Infantry) who preceded her in death. daughters, four grandchildren, three She was an active member of the great grandchildren, two brothers SCOTT, Dorothy of Walla Walla, Grand River Garden Club, and five sisters. He was a member of Washington passed away recently at Shakespearean Circle, Heritage Club, the N/E LA Chapter, AXPOW. the age of 102. She was the widow Retired Teachers Association and of ex-POW Richard Jackson (Bilibid, American Ex-Prisoners of War. Survi- PARROT, BURDETTE “SHORTY”, of Cabanatuan, Fukuoka). Dorothy was vors include her grandson, Casey. Atlantic, IA died June 30, 2012 at very active in both local, state and the age of 91. He was captured while national AXPOW affairs. She served MOORE, Virgil, 89, of Columbia, MO serving in the Army during WWII. He as National Director for two terms passed away June 12, 2012. He was held in three German prison until travel became difficult. Survi- served in the U.S. Army Air Corps camps – Lukenvald Stalag 3A, vors include her daughter, Judi. during WWII with the 305th BG, 8th AF. Moosberg Stalag 7A and Furstenberg He flew 19 missions before being Stalag 3B. He was a member of the TODD, Lester Richard, of Gallion, shot down and becoming a German Southwest Iowa Chapter, AXPOW. He Alabama died July 3, 2012. He was nd prisoner of war for 14 months in is survived by a son, a daughter, 6 wounded while serving with the 2 Stalags Luft 1 and 4. He is survived grandchildren and 11 great-grand- Inf. Div. when captured by the North by wife, Hilda and other family mem- children. Koreans in May 1951. He was re- bers. leased during Operation Little Switch PATRICK, James E., of Lumberton, in 1953. He is survived by his loving Ex-POW Bulletin NJ passed away July 6, 2012. He was wife of 58 years, Shirley, 6 children, 87. Jim was captured while serving 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grand- Sept/Oct 2012 with the 106th Div., 422nd Inf. in the children. 36 Battle of the Bulge. He was held in WALDRUM, Everett “Ears”, of WEGENER, John J. of Hamilton, Ohio taps continued... Frankston, TX passed away Jan. 4, died May 14, 2014 at age of 91. He 2012. During WWII, he served with was shot down near Auschwitz, Po- USSERY, Alvin 85, of Ridgedale, MO the 4th Marines; he was captured on land on September 13, 1944. He passed away April 25, 2010. Alvin Corregidor and held in Mukden, Man- crash landed his plane, was captured served with C Company, 60th Infantry churia for 3 ½ years. He leaves his by the German Army, and spent the Regiment, 9th Infantry Division in the wife, Ruby, 2 sons, 2 daughters, 10 rest of the war in Stalag Luft 1, Barth, ETO during WWII. He was a POW in grandchildren and several great- Germany. He is survived by his wife Stalag 6A. grandchildren. of 65 years, Maj-Greth, three children and three grandchildren. VERONICA, William J., of WATTS, Audreyn L. (nee Harder) Cheektowaga, NY died July 19, 2012 passed away May 18, 2011. Beloved ZALE, John S., of North Tonawanda, at the age of 96. He was shot down wife of the late Willard Bob Watts NY passed away Jun 17, 2012. He over Frankfurt while serving in the Sr.; a Marine with the 1st Marine De- was 90. During WWII, he served un- AAF; he was held in Stalag Luft IV. fense Battalion, captured December der Gen. MacArthur in the Philip- Survivors include 1 son, 1 daughter, 23, 1941, on Wake Island and a POW pines. He was captured and sent to 5 grandchildren and 1 great-grand- of the Japanese for more than 3-½ Manchuria for 3 ½ years. John was a child. years. member of the Western NY Chapter, AXPOW. He leaves 1 daughter, 1 son and 2 grandchildren.

walks not in the counsel of the sel of God’s word, not by their emo- wicked, nor stands in the way of the tions, or circumstances of life, nei- national chaplain sinners, nor sits in the seat of the ther by tradition nor people’s opin- scoffers; but his delight is in the law ions. of the Lord, and on His law he medi- tates day and night. He is like the The psalmist in using the word tree planted by streams of water that “wicked” means to be unable or yields its fruit in its season, and its loose, they are without restraint or leaf does not wither. In all that he control. They are people who go does, he prospers. The wicked are throughout their lives without God. not so, but are like chaff that the They can be good people, nice wind drives away. Therefore the people, but one thing they always do PNC Gerald Harvey wicked will not stand in the judg- is leave God out of their lives. They ment, nor sinners in the congregation live a life saying “Me first” or “Go for of the righteous, but the way of the it” and “Get it now”, “Nothing bad will Happiness wicked will perish.” (ESV) happen”, and “ There is no right or wrong”. Our nation declared Independence Here David shows us the way to real two hundred and thirty six years ago. happiness and joy. It could be trans- Jeremiah 17:7 “Happy is the man who We wrote these statements: lated saying “Oh how very very happy trusts in the Lord, whose hope is in is the one” or “Oh the happiness of the Lord.” “We hold these truths to be self-evi- the person who lives like this.” God dent, that all men are created equal, is seeking to make us happy, and we So today if you pursue happiness, it that they are endowed by their Cre- should in turn strive to make other can be found. We can be happy, our ator with certain unalienable Rights, people happy by sharing our joy. lives can be fruitful and meaningful. that among these are Life, Liberty, The secret is to plant our lives in and the pursuit of Happiness.” Here is God’s prescription: “ Oh the God’s righteousness and grow in him. joy of those who do not follow the We choose what kind of people we Happiness has become the supreme advice of the wicked or stand are going to be. quest of most of the people in around with sinners, or join in with America today. Many look for hap- mockers.” Seeking God’s way, we will have joy, piness in material possessions, or the peace, contentment, and happiness. newest thrills in life, but it seems that David’s prescription of the happy Let us keep God first in all things. this search is in vain. For happiness person is found in a God centered is not found in things or places. life. This stands in sharp contrast to the way of the ungodly. The lives David, the psalmist, gives a descrip- of the Godly and the ungodly are Ex-POW Bulletin tion of a happy man in Psalm 1:1-6. characterized by a totally different Sept/Oct 2012 “Blessed (Happy) is the man who way of living. A happy person of God has determined to walk by the coun- 37 Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2012 ALL CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE TO 38 AXPOW OR AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR Bean Camp to Briar Patch Life in the POW Camps of Korea and Vietnam 50/50 drawing by John N. Powers June, 2012 Arlington, TX The majority of books about POWs concentrate 1st Place Helen B Petri, WV $227.80 on the experience of one individual. However, 2nd Place Joseph Zetti, OH $170.85 there were thousands of prisoners during the Ko- 3rd Place Rose Tedesco, NJ $113.90 rean and Vietnam Wars donated back to AXPOW and over thirty major sites at which they were held. 4th Place Jason Petri, NC $56.95 Conditions varied from camp to camp and even These drawings help raise money needed for our operating within sections of a single camp. expenses. They allow our members to participate in a very Bean Camp to Briar Patch is unique in that it worthwhile project, while giving them a chance to win. 50% describes all the major POW camps from both the of the donations will be given to the General Fund and the Korean and Vietnam wars. In one single source, other 50% are awarded as prizes. The amounts are determined EX-POWs and family members now have informa- after all donations are received. You do not have to be present tion on the location of the camps and the condi- to win. Please make copies of the tickets on the other side tions in those camps.The book has 214 pages with and offer them to your Chapter members, family and friends. over thirty maps, photos, and diagrams. We are asking $5.00 for 6 tickets. These donations are not tax deductible. Fill out the tickets and send them and your $17.20 including shipping. Can be ordered at donations to: www.croninbooks.org or by sending a check to National Headquarters ~ 50/50 Drawing Cronin Publications, Box 151, Wittenberg, WI 54499 3201 E. Pioneer Pkway, #40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396

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

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

Membership is open to US Military and Civilians captured The CUB Magazine is published three times because of their US citizenship and their per year. Published since 1946. families. Annual Reunions held yearly since 1947. Do NOT send dues with this request for an Harry F. Martin, Membership Chairman application 121 McGregor Ave. Mount Arlington, N.J. 07856 Mail to: 973-663-2410 American Ex-Prisoners of War [email protected] 3201 East Pioneer Parkway, #40 Arlington, TX 76010-5936 (817) 649-2979 voice Ex-POW Bulletin (817)649-0109 fax Sept/Oct 2012 e-mail:[email protected] 39 American Ex-Prisoners of War American Ex-Prisoners of War 50/50 Drawing 50/50 Drawing PLEASE PRINT PLEASE PRINT Name:______Telephone: ( )______Name:______Telephone: ( )______Address:______Address:______City/State/Zip:______City/State/Zip:______

Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Here is my donation of $5.00 for 6 chances to win the drawing. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Prize amounts are determined by the total amount donated. Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War Mail your donation American Ex-Prisoners of War and entry to: 50/50 Drawing and entry to: 50/50 Drawing 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Arlington, TX 76010-5396 You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deduct- You do not have to be present to win. Your donation is not tax deductible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. ible. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Donation not required to enter. Thank you for your support. (10/12) Thank you for your support. (10/12) 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 deductible. 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 (10/12) Thank you for your support. (10/12) Sept/Oct 2012 40 Certificate of Captivity

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

Ex-POW Bulletin Sept/Oct 2012 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 (regular only) Vest Chainguard w/eagles 8.00 3” Vinyl Decal 1.00 AXPOW Logo Bolo Tie 25.00 3” Blazer Patch 4.00 3” Inside Decal 1.00 U.S. Flag Bolo Tie 20.00 4” Blazer Patch 4.00 8” Vinyl Decal 6.00 Mini POW Medal Bolo Tie 30.00 8” Blazer Patch 10.00 12” Vinyl Decal 10.00 Barbed Wire pin 3.00 CLOTH STRIPES (specify which title) 3.00 Bumper Sticker “Freedom – Ask us” 2.00 Life Member pin 5.00 Life Member · Chapter Commander AXPOW Wall Clock (includes battery) 20.00 Crossed Flags Lapel pin 5.00 Past Chapter Commander · Chapter Adj/Treas Chapter AXPOW Notecards (pkg of 25) 6.00 Brooch pin 5.00 Adjutant · Chapter Treasurer Special Prayer Cards (pkg of 25) 6.00 EX-POW pin (goldtone) 5.00 State Department Commander AXPOW Prayer Book 2.00 Logo pin 5.00 Past State Dept. Commander · Department Adjutant Ladies Prayer Book 1.00 POW Stamp pin 3.00 Department Treasurer · Sr. Vice Commander AXPOW By-Laws 5.00 Past Chapter Commander pin 5.00 Jr. Vice Commander · Chaplain · Historian POW DVD – ETO or Pacific 11.00 Past Department Commander pin 5.00 Service Officer · Legislative Officer “Speak Out” Education Packet 6.00 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] AMERICAN EX PRISONERS OF WAR

LIGHT JACKET

Wind & water-resistant Cratex™ Microfiber, navy with stone collar Mesh-lined body for breathability and nylon-lined sleeves for easy on/off Vented front capes with Velcro® closure perfect for breathability Stand-up collar with stylish contrast-color on inside Zippered side pockets & inside valuables pocket. Cuffs with snap closure S-XL $79.00 (Call 660-627-0753 for pricing larger orders) Add $1.50 per line for added lettering such as “State Commander” or “Next of Kin” (14 characters/ spaces per line) Plus $2.00 for each size above XL $6.95 shipping each within Continental U. S. Shipments to Missouri add 5.6% sales tax A portion of the price is returned to American Ex-Prisoners of War

Jacket Size______Desired lettering under logo ($1.50/line; 14 characters/spaces per line)______Check enclosed or VISA/MasterCard/AmEx______Card security code(4 digits on front of AmEX card, three digits on back of others)______Expiration Date______Signature (CC only)______Ship to: Name______Address______City______State______Zip______Mail to Lone Pine Embroidery, 32245 Lone Pine Way, Greentop, MO 63546 Or E-mail to [email protected] Or call us at 660-627-0753 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 National 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.

All orders for products sold by AXPOW National Organization, including dues/subscriptions Please print: should be mailed to: Name______American Ex-Prisoners of War Address______National Headquarters 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40 City/State/Zip______Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Phone ( )______(817) 649-2979/ (817) 649-0109 fax Please allow 4 weeks to make address corrections. e-mail: [email protected] No collect calls, please Mail to: National Headquarters, AXPOW, 3201 E. Pioneer Parkway, Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010-5396 Or fax: (817) 649-0109 e-mail: [email protected]