The Newsletter of the Army Residence Community
VolumeThe 33 Number 9 Eagle September 2019
Getting to know Suzanne Huber ARC Health Care Director September 2019: Inside The Eagle
------Contents The “Big” Eagle continues with: 1 Front Cover Wall Artist of the Month – Janet Olson 2 Contents ArtsInpire Winners feted by LeadingAge Texas 3 Birthdays and Passings The Real ID Law will come into Effect 3 September 18: The Air Force’s 78th Birthday 240 Years Ago: The American Revolution: 4 – 5 A Conversation with the CEO John Paul Jones --- Mike Huebner 6 Meet Suzanne Huber, MA, FANP, Director of 75 Years Ago: WWII, The Pacific Theater: Health Care, by Carol Huebner Peleliu --- Mike Huebner 7 ARC Library 75 Years Ago: WWII, The European Theater: 8 – 9 Meet and Greet on 9 September Operation Market-Garden--- Mike Huebner Board of Directors And much more! 10 The Golden Diggers Eagle Luncheon 10 New Resident Reception 12 September th Tuesday, 10 September, 11:30 11 5 Floor Laundry, by Sal DeLeon AM to 1 PM, Auditorium Director of Maintenance Mr. Mike Jaeger, the top source 12 – 13 September Activities for counseling and claims from 14 September Movies at Lakeside Theater the Texas Veterans 15 Artist pf the Month: Janet Olson Commission. For Reservations 16 Special Event: ARCtoberfest! contact Kevin Scott 210-646-5820
On the Cover: Please turn to page 6 to find the article by Carol Huebner introducing our new Director of Healthcare, Suzanne Huber. Next month, on Wednesday, 9 October, 10 AM, in the Auditorium, there will be a presentation event featuring Suzanne, with the Director of Nursing, Meredith Willits. Please come and get to know them is this setting. All Residents are welcome. We are into our third year of transitioning The Eagle from a newsletter to a community magazine which has a paper edition, a larger online edition, and an occasional, often weekly, email abbreviated edition. Please get to know all three. 2 The Eagle September 2019 --- Kevin Scott Birthdays and Passings SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS BEGINNING OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS 01 Margery Stout 05 Frances Weller 02 M. J. Thompson 06 Helen Pohly 04 Bruce Creller 07 Kay Templin 04 Vernon Peterson 07 Helen Shackelford 04 Virginia Sherrill PASSINGS SINCE LAST ISSUE 05 Barbara Dorger Mrs. Pat Spencer 14 August 06 Richard Crane Mrs. Judith Dennington 15 August 06 Charlotte Phillips COL George Hall 2 August 07 Terumi Ballantyne 3 Mrs. Fay Ward 26 August 08 Thomas Jackson 08 Roy Lockley 08 Marie Becker 08 Victoria Summy 09 Betty McSwain 09 John Stokes 11 Alison Buck 11 Dorothy Crancer 11 Ralph Dresser 13 William (Mike) Cassidy 13 Carolyn Leonard 14 Jack Speedy 14 Loretta Zimmerman 15 David Duttweiler 16 Janelle Tye 18 Anne Jones 18 Gerry Williams The official date of the founding of the US 19 Karen Crumal Air Force is 18 September 1947. It was a 20 Mary Dee momentous event that over six decades later 21 Mitzi Picha has demonstrated the achievement of an Air 22 Elizabeth Peterson Force second-to-none, yet the Air Force's 22 Estela Whitely history and heritage goes back a lot further. 23 Joyce Bishop 23 David Garber From the time that the US military purchased 23 Mort Bregman its first aircraft in 1909 up to 1947, the US Air 23 Barbara Hanna Force did not exist as a separate and 23 Nancy Herbert independent military service organization. It 24 Bob Houlahan went through a series of designations: 24 Joseph Webb Aeronautical Section, Signal Corps (1909); 25 Barbara Maloy Aviation Section, Signal Corps (1914); United 26 Lilley Herr States Army Air Service (1918); United States 26 Jan Johnson Army Air Corps (1926), United States Army Air 27 Claudia Burnfield Forces (1941). 27 Patricia Dentino On Tuesday, 17 September, at 7 PM in the 27 Jane Mashburn Auditorium, the Gateway Brass Ensemble 28 Lee Perry from the U.S. Air Force Band of the West 30 Charlet Long Little will give a concert to celebrate the Air Would you like to change the way your name is displayed Force’s 72nd birthday, which will occur the (full names, nicknames, etc.)? Please contact Kevin Scott following day at [email protected], or 210-646-5820. September 2019 The Eagle 3 A Conversation with the CEO A Conversation with the CEO is an impromptu exchange between Eagle editor Kevin Scott and CEO Steve Fuller. Steve Fuller: Before we get into questions, I’d like to recognize our Residents who submitted entries in the annual ArtsInspire competition arranged by Leading Age Texas. Will that be in this issue? Kevin Scott: Yes, there are photographs of the presentations and of the artwork on pages 19 to 22 in the September issue of the Resident Portal edition of The Eagle. The artwork will be SF (cont’d): I’d like to mention my displayed in the hallway by the Bistro and the appreciation to Marcia Holliman (above) and Residents Lounge the weekend of 21 and 22 those Residents in the High-Rise who opened September. their homes to future Residents this past week, on Tuesday, 20 August. Fourteen visitors SF: The events and activities for September came here and were shown available floor here make a full calendar. What are you plans, and then stepped across the hall and showing as noteworthy this month? What is met Residents who furnished and decorated your perspective as the editor? that identical floor plan. They did this on several floors and concluded with a light lunch. KS: Any event which changes the routine is worth covering, both in the Eagle and the Every time visitors come here, they are email-edition, the Eagle Extra, except for impressed with the genuine enthusiasm and events in the first days of the month. For joy-in-living which our Residents show. This example, Labor Day is observed nationally on event gave the same impression. My sincere Sunday, September 1st, but it’s celebrated with thanks to all! a special cook out by Dining Services on Monday, the 2nd, and holiday meal hours. What is the Eagle luncheon this month? Announcing this in the print edition of the KS: The luncheon is Tuesday, 10 September, Eagle, which is distributed on the evening of 11:30 AM to 1 PM, in the Auditorium, and the Friday, 30 August, isn’t effective, so it’s speaker is Mike Jaeger, the Southwest District publicized on-line. Manager, Texas Veterans Commission. Mike’s SF: Okay, so what about an event like the experience has been counseling and claims. Meet and Greet for the Board of Directors on This presentation is best suited to be attended Monday, 9 September, beginning at 3:45 PM in by both the military veterans and the spouse. the Auditorium? I emphasize both the sponsor and the spouse KS: That event is so “Eagle-worthy!” Photos because there are benefits which accrue to of the Board members are on our center either or both, but, as the old saying goes, “If pages, 8 and 9. That way, a reader could pull you don’t ask, the answer is always no.” That’s out the center pages (7,8,9, and 10 are one where the Texas Veterans Commission comes piece of paper, 11 x 17”) and bring it along to in. Residents would be best served if they keep track of the introductions. explained their issues to a counselor and then participate in the application process. Often SF: I hope that technique works. Three days the person who directly benefits is the spouse. later, on Thursday, 12 September, at 4 PM in the Auditorium, there’s a reception for new SF: The last luncheon (Joe Silvas, Retirement Residents. I see you’ve got that on page 10. Services Officer, JBSA-Fort Sam Houston) was
4 The Eagle August 2019 A Conversation with the CEO particularly helpful in covering key aspects of flying commercial air, it must have a star in the retired military personnel and financial matters. top right corner indicating compliance with the It’s also important to know that our Resident Federal law. Again, thank you, Bill! Services has had close contact with The Retirement Services Officer at Fort Sam Changing themes, I would also like to say a Houston over the years, and they can assist sincere “Thank You!” to Allen and Lynne Residents in making the initial contacts. Hoppe for sponsoring the Jazz Night on Thursday, 19 September, 7 PM, in the Are there any other events which should be Auditorium, with the Jazz Protagonists mentioned? performing Errol Garner’s “Concert by the Sea.” KS: Tuesday, 17 September, is Constitution Day. . . There’s also a concert by the Gateway Brass ensemble Tuesday evening, September 17th, SF: Unfortunately, this is a little noticed day, to welcome the Birthday of the U.S. Air Force but very meaningful to the military, since the the next day for us. commissioning oath includes the statement “I will support and defend the Constitution of the I’m glad to see our Director of Healthcare, United States . .” Suzanne Huber, welcomed on the cover of the Eagle. I fully endorse her goals for Healthcare, The September issue shows you and Ron as mentioned in the article on page 6. Jenkins will be available on Tuesday, 17 September, 9 AM to noon, in the conference KS: My notes indicate that Suzanne Huber, room to provide information and verify whether the Director of Healthcare, and Meredith Willits, a person is a registered voter in Bexar County. the Director of Nursing, will present a Fall What got you involved in that? Healthcare Update on Wednesday, October 9th, at 10 AM. All Residents are invited to this KS: Both Ron and I have served as Bexar presentation. County Election Judges SF: Thank you for working in the article about SF: My sincere thanks to Bill Herr (below), for upgrades to several laundry rooms in the High- sharing his experience with the Texas DMV Rise. The was planned by Sal DeLeon with when he renewed his drivers license. In order the helpful urging of Residents like Norm the fully comply with a Federal law called the Southerland. Once we have a good idea on Real ID Act, you must present your birth whether there’s Resident acceptance of the certificate, passport, or other designated technology and it has a good track record for document when you renew your Texas drivers reliability, we’ll work to upgrade the other license. Effective October 2020, if you use the laundry rooms of the High-Rise on a scheduled Texas drivers license as your photo ID while basis.
The transition of Spectrum cable TV and Wi-fi has now continued into the High-Rise, and the comments I’ve heard are basically positive. The cable TV signal is a bit more refined, so some Residents have mentioned they have a brighter, clearer picture.
I’m looking forward to seeing Residents at our many events, and nearing month’s end, on Friday evening, 27 September, at Water’s Edge, the ARCtoberfest!
August 2019 The Eagle 5 Director of Healthcare Suzanne Huber, MA, LNFA • Deliver person-centered care*, such as an all-day dining option, and a neighborhood-like atmosphere.
• Strive to reach from 4-star to the highest 5-star rating from CMS Medicare for quality, staffing, and health inspection.
• Continue listening to families by conducting town halls.
• Further develop staff skills to recognize the need for healthcare transitions.
• Increase access to short-term, direct admissions of veterans into skilled nursing.
• Install an online staff education delivery and tracking system.
Meet the Director of Healthcare • Continue to provide care for residents Suzanne Huber, MA, LNFA who need an intravenous line, wound A new day has dawned for the Healthcare care, feeding tube, low-flow oxygen, and Center (HCC). Suzanne Huber, a highly – and possibly in the future – limited experienced healthcare administrator in senior respiratory therapy. living, is at the HCC helm. • Develop the most efficient and effective She is a native of Seguin and third- staffing plan, and, generation graduate of Texas Lutheran • Participate in strategic and business College. Her father was a rancher, her mother planning for a much-needed new a social worker. Her parents and her brother – healthcare center. a physician – influenced her desire to care for others. Suzanne earned her Master of Arts Suzanne and our Director of Nursing, degree in sociology. Meredith Willits, will attend training this fall to prepare for the Patient-Driven Payment Model Suzanne began her career as a social worker – the government mechanism through which in the juvenile justice system. She then Medicare reimbursement will be received. She proceeded into the Jewish Home for the Aged, is in close contact with professional colleagues, where – after 10 years – her final position was an active member of Leading Age, and serves Executive Director. Next came executive on senior living boards. positions with Morningside Ministries, especially Menger Springs, Boerne. All total, When asked what the greatest strength of Suzanne has enjoyed 25 years in the care of the ARC was, Suzanne readily mentioned the older adults in all living settings, with 15 years cohesion and synergy of the department as a Licensed Nursing Facility Administrator directors. When asked for one word to (LNFA). With her broad base of expertise, her describe herself, she answered with two – focus at the ARC will be leadership for the servant heart. Come and meet Suzanne. healthcare settings. You’ll be glad you did. She can be reached at 210-646-5204. Suzanne is developing a cohesive team, and --- Carol Huebner steadily navigating her team to: [*Contributor’s Note: Person-centered care is a holistic, individualized care model described in detail at https://academic.oup.com/gerontologist/article/58/suppl_1/ S10/4816735.] 6 The Eagle September 2019 ARC Library ARC LIBRARY DONATION DVD The Raffaeli Room Last Stand at Saber River Library Committee Monte Walsh JoAnne Kroll, Chairman Police Squad! Glenna Solley, Co-Chairman The Thin Man Annette Golhke, Scheduler COFFEE TABLE NEW FICTION REGULAR PRINT The Best of Norman Rockwell The New Girl, Daniel Silva John Singer Sargent, One Good Deed, David Baldacci Kate F. Jennings A Dangerous Man, Robert Crais Submarine War Between the Waves, The Turn of the Key, Ruth Ware Robert Hutchins The Bitterroots, C.J. Box Run Silent, Philip Kaplan
NEW FICTION LARGE PRINT DONATION REFERENCE The New Girl, Daniel Silva Bridge, H. Anthony Medley Cross My Heart, Robin Lee Hatcher Surfside Sisters, Nancy Thayer SPECIAL EVENT (in the Library) Paranoid, Lisa Jackson Under Currents, Nora Roberts The Oracle, Clive Cussler Join us
DONATION FICTION Thursday, th Jubal Sackett, Louis L’Amour September 19 Window by the Bay, @ 3:00 p.m. Debbie Macomber for a talk, Blessings in Disguise, Daniel Steel book signing,
DONATION NON- FICTION and a sip of A Portrait of a Dog, Andrew Morris wine, with ZOO Leila Meacham. A Pictorial History of Kelly Air Force Base 1917-1980 TEX Ghosts along the Texas Coast, Docia Schultz Williams TEX 6000 Miles of Fence, Cordia Sloan Duke TEX Justice on Trial, Mollie Hemingway (Dragonfly POL on sale Unmasked – Big Media War Against @ 2:45 PM – Trump, Brent Bozell III POL Courtesy The Great Successor (Kim Jun Un), Anna Fifield B “The Twig” bookshop)
DONATION AUDIO The Cuban Affair, Nelson DeMille A Walk to Remember, Nicholas Sparks The Little Drummer Girl, John Le Carre
September 2019 The Eagle 7
Herb Coley, Chair Barbara Gentry, Vice Chair
Colonel Herb Coley (USA, Ret.), served for 28 years in Barbara B. Gentry retired from USAA in September 2012 command and staff positions, to include the 1st Medical after 19 years of service. She retired as Senior Vice President Group, 25th Infantry Division; the Office of The Surgeon of Community Affairs, President of The USAA Foundation General; and Headquarters, US Army Medical Command and President of The USAA Educational Foundation. In this (MEDCOM). Afterwards, he spent over 3 years as a senior role, she directed the USAA philanthropic program, manager for Troy Systems. COL Coley returned to federal community outreach and volunteer programs. Barbara now service at HQ, MEDCOM as a government civilian in 2001. serves on the Boards of Directors of Fisher House He advanced to become the Chief of Staff and Deputy to Foundation, Goodwill Industries of San Antonio, Haven for the Commanding General, MEDCOM, and later promoted Hope, Respite Care San Antonio, San Antonio Museum of Art to the Senior Executive Service. He retired with nearly 40 and San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame. She is a member of years of service. Herb is a graduate of Trinity University the Advisory Council of the San Antonio Food Bank and and the US Army-Baylor University Master’s Program in serves on committees within the local nonprofit community. Health Care Administration. He has served as a member She earned a BA Degree from St. Mary’s University majoring of the ARC Foundation Board since 2013. in Sociology. LTG Quinn H. Jean M. Dailey served as Becker, M.D., (USA, an Army Nurse for 13 years in Ret.) entered the Army in the Army Reserve and 30 years 1956 and trained as an in the Active Army. She is a Orthopedic Surgeon. He graduate of the Walter Reed rose through the ranks Army Institute of Nursing taking care of soldiers. His (WRAIN) program/University 32-year career culminated of Maryland School of Nursing, as the 36th Surgeon Baltimore with a Bachelor of General of the Army. Science degree in Nursing. Meet and Greet David Dentino is a licensed civil engineer. As a the ARC Board of Directors member of the Air Force Senior Executive Service, he Monday, 9 September, 3:45 PM serves as the Director of Installation Support, Air Auditorium Force Installation & Mission Support Center, Joint Base Remove these pages from the center staple San Antonio. and bring to the event to use as a program 8 The Eagle September 2019 Mr. Julius Germano David Rubenstein, FACHE is currently COO/Partner is served on the Board of of Anderson Marketing Directors first in 2012-3. He is a Group. Prior to joining retired Major General, Army Anderson Marketing Medical Department. He now Group, he worked with shares his leadership lessons as KZTV (Corpus), KCOR FM a university professor, public (now KQXT) and was Vice speaker, and non-profit board President, Spanish member. International Network. Philip Mallory (MG, USA, Barbara Schneider Ret.) is a graduate of the U.S. Rattan holds a BA Degree in Military Academy and holds Business Administration from an MS in Engineering- George Mason University and Applied Science from UC- has served in many leadership Davis. He now serves as positions for a variety of Chair of the Executive Board nonprofit organizations, of the Midsouth Evangelical including Chairman of the Board Covenant Church Midsouth of the American Red Cross – San Conference. Antonio Chapter. Thomas McGuire is a John Tate is Senior Counsel retired COL who served in with Clark Hill Strasburger the US Army for 27 years. He Attorneys at Law. He is a 1964 currently serves as the graduate of the U.S. Military Grants Manager for Academy and 1972 graduate of Kronkosky Charitable The University of Texas School of Foundation in San Antonio, Law. He participates in the managing over 150 grants monthly San Antonio Bar awarded to local area non- Association Veterans Clinic at profit organizations. Audie Murphy Hospital. LaWarren V. Teresa Jensen White, Patterson (MG, USA, Ret.) CFP, is a Certified Financial has over 25 years of Planner with 40-years of experience as a senior experience assisting military executive level military families with their financial leader, culminating as the needs. She is the CEO, CCO of Deputy Commanding Money Managers, Inc. a full General and Chief of Staff for service, independent fee-based US Army Installation Christian wealth management Management Command. firm. Sylvia S. Romo is a Donna M. Wright served as certified public an Army Nurse for 30 years, accountant, a licensed including care delivery in acute investment professional, a and ambulatory care settings, businesswoman, former postgraduate education (Critical Texas legislator, former Care Program Director), nursing adjunct professor at UTSA, administration and Consultant and former elected Bexar to the Surgeon General for County Tax Assessor- Ambulatory Nursing. Collector. September 2019 The Eagle 9 Golden Diggers New Resident Reception Planned for Thursday, September 12, 4 PM, Auditorium The Diggers identified a serious All Residents are invited to a welcome problem with the reception for new Residents on Thursday, 12 drainage on the September, 4 PM, in the Auditorium. It is sidewalk from jointly hosted by the Residents Council and our Peninsula Street to Community Staff. the gardens behind B Wing. During heavy As of press time, the program indicates the rain the water ran following Residents will be introduced: down the sidewalk, and deposited mud Mrs. Carol Carlson, 4110 Tarlac and silt in a low area of the walk. This was Mrs. Patti Pedersen, Apartment 405, a definite slip and fall hazard. Thanks to a CAPT Stan & Doris Mincks, 4205 Tarlac generous donation from Andrea Martin, MAJ Maurice & Elizabeth Fox, 3301 McHenry the drainage was rerouted, and sod placed to cover the bare soil Lt Col Tom & Roxie Shook, Apartment 1123 that worsened the problem. The dead privet hedge along the walkway was cut down as part Mrs. Viva Dell Fatheree, Apartment 1118, of the project. Come have a look for yourselves and view this much improved area. Lt. Col Robert & Alison Buck, 3108 McHenry
More honor stones were placed with a large group from the sixth floor there to honor a COL Jerry & Joanna Davis, Apartment 411 former friend and sixth floor resident. Ms. Elizabeth (Liz) Lane, 3203 McHenry, We approached the Cut-Ups quilt group to see if they would sponsor a rotating quilt CAPT Quentin & Diana Masters, 6203 exhibit in the Assisted Living dining room. The Bannocks residents are already enjoying the first quilt with many more to come. Thank you, Cut-Ups. After the new Resident introductions, key members of the ARC Staff are introduced. The One more piece of good news. The sprinkler beverages and snacks available are system in the Oaks is now operating. However, complimentary. The new Resident reception we are still watering three days a week with the normally welcomes a dozen Residents, and Diggers taking turns on Sunday. those shown on the list above may change --- Joan Howey based upon individual schedules. This is a Editor’s Note: The Golden Diggers are an very upbeat, late afternoon social gathering award-winning example (trophy from and dress for the event is casual. United Way San Antonio, 2019, is above) of the beauty which Residents bring to our community. They converted the courtyard Constitution Day, 17 September in Healthcare courtyard from an overgrown On Tuesday, 17 September, 9 AM to 12 patch into a garden enjoyed by all. It is noon, in the Conference Room, Residents Ron supported by donations and volunteer Jenkins and Kevin Scott will be available to work: raking, pruning, trimming, spading, provide information and assistance regarding and watering. Please join them at 9 AM, registering the vote in Bexar County. Both Tuesdays and Fridays, in the Healthcare have served as Bexar County Election officials. courtyard. This is not a “dress-up” event. 10 The Eagle September 2019
High-Rise Laundry Room Upgrade Begins
“Beyond Wash, Rinse & Fold” At the entrance to the Laundry One of the challenges the ARC has been Room. experiencing for a long time is the number of washers and dryers to accommodate each A stainless-steel floor. Presently, we have 3 Washers and 3 sink was dryers for each high-rise Laundry Room floor. installed to match the décor. Technology knows no boundaries and has Should Resident moved from the humble washboard to these acceptance be beloved appliances. The High Efficiency (HE) high, and Flex Washers earmarked for the 4th, 5th & 9th reliability be floors offer more flexibility and twice the choice shown by the with water & other energy saving features. new machines, the laundry These washers have a steam & sanitize upgrade will capability, but most importantly offer 2 continue. independent washers in one “front and top loading”. It’s like pulling a rabbit out of a hat, this machine has doubled the laundry room from 3 washers now to 6 in one fell swoop. All of this was achieved without major construction or disruption to Residents.
Now we can’t forget about its brother the Dryer. The state-of-the-art product has the same capability and mirrors the washer by doubling the number of dryers from 3 to 6. What does this mean to the resident? More choice, less time waiting for an appliance and hopefully more fun. Above: Facilities In addition, these Laundry Rooms have Director Sal DeLeon been further updated with, new LED lighting, at the washers. One new Occupancy sensor light switch, new joke is that men are stainless-steel laundry sink with faucet, new ideally suited to ceiling tiles, fresh paint and laundry inspired operate the washers artwork. and dryers, because they’re made by This 21st century redesign is brought to Samsung and the you by your ARC Facilities Team; and we front controls hope you will enjoy this experience for many resemble a television years to come. remote. The top washers are best for We are especially grateful to Col. Norm small loads and Southerland for his assistance with creating delicate fabrics. washer and dryer instructions for residents’ reference on the 5th floor. Above left: Dryers
--- Sal DeLeon have a dual top and front load opening also. September 2019 The Eagle 11 August Activities MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!! 9/24/19 – PBS documentary “Rivers of Life” Part Two. Friday, October 3rd and Saturday, October 5th are (60 min.) the dates for the “ARC’S GOT TALENT” show and TUESDAY TEACHING LECTURE SERIES SCHEDULE encore performance! It’s not too late to sign-up. Every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the Rehearsals will continue through September. See Activities room. Coffee & pastries provided. the sign-up sheet on the High Rise Activities This is a one - hour educational activity that will cover a bulletin board. Call Jane Winzeler at (210) 646- wide variety of topics from The Great Courses DVD 5305 with your questions. Series.
“Great Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt” TRAVELING TREASURES SALE! Friday, October 18th, Lecture Series. Professor Bob Brier is 2019 at 7:30 a.m. renowned for his insights into ancient
Egypt. He hosts The Learning Channels ARC CLUBS & GROUPS “MEET & GREET”! Thursday, popular Great Egyptians series and he October 24th in Auditorium from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. is dynamic instructor. Find out where you can pursue your hobbies, learn something new, volunteer and much more, right here at 9/3/19 – “King Narmer – The the ARC! Unification of Egypt” and “Sneferu – The Pyramid Builder” ATTENTION LADIES! WE’RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE 9/10/19 – “Hatshepsut – Female Pharaoh” and (OR A TEAM) TO TAKE-ON THE ARC SPRING 2020 “Akhenaten – Heretic Pharaoh” JEWELRY SALE!! This is a fund-raiser that benefits the Resident’s Council. 9/17/19 – “Tutankhamen – The Lost Pharaoh” and Costume jewelry (and other ladies accessories) are “Tutankhamen – A Murder Theory” donated by Residents to make the sale possible. If 9/24/19 –“Ramses the Great – The Early Years” and interested, see Jane Winzeler in Activities for the details “Ramses the Great – The Twilight Years” or call 646-5305.
GET YOUR ACTIVITIES CALENDAR! TUESDAY DOCUMENTARY / LECTURE SCHEDULES: Stop by the Activities office by the photo wall down the
hall from the High Rise mail room and pick up a copy of TUESDAY MORNING COFFEE this month’s Activities Calendar and the Lakeside DOCUMENTARY SCHEDULE Theater movie schedule. Can’t stop by? Call Jane Every Tuesday from 9:00am – Winzeler at ext. 5305 to have one dropped into your 10:00am in the Activities Room. mailbox. Coffee & pastries provided.
9/3/19 – Lincoln Penny films documentary “Hello A GENTLE REMINDER REGARDING ACTIVITIES AND Girls”. In 1918, the U.S. Army Signal Corps sent 223 GUESTS: Residents take priority when it comes to women to France as telephone operators to help win signing-up for trips and the Lakeside monthly Dinner & the Great War. (55 min.) Movie event. However, if there is space on the list 9/10/19 – PBS documentary AFTER the deadline date, your guests are more than “Legendary White Stallions”. This is welcome to sign-up and come along! the story of the world-famous Lipizzaner stallions from their origins in ARC EXCURSIONS (Get details and sign-up on the ancient times to the almost unknown Activities bulletin board.) drama of their rescue in 1945. (60 min.) Sunday 1st – Michelle Angulo-Pacheco presents “La 9/17/19 – PBS documentary “Rivers of Life” Part One. Imagen De San Antonio” at Arneson River Theatre. Bus This landmark three-part series reveals the leaves the ARC at 7:00 p.m. extraordinary animals, epic landscapes, and remarkable Tuesday 3rd – Lunch at “Sea Island” at The Forum with people who live alongside three iconic rivers. (60 min.) the Luncheonaires. Bus leaves the ARC at 11:00 a.m.
12 The Eagle September 2019 Activities Coordinator Jane Winzeler is at 210-646-5305. August Activities Thursday 5th – “First Thursday Night Market” at The Wednesday 18th –Happy Birthday USAF! Enjoy Pearl. Bus leaves the ARC at 4:00 p.m. complimentary birthday cake in the High-Rise Front Lobby at 11:30 a.m. Saturday 7th – “God’s Favorite” at Sheldon-Vexler Theatre. Bus leaves the ARC at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday 10th – Lunch at “Cured” at The Pearl with the Luncheonaires. Bus leaves the ARC at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday 11th – Dinner Night Out at “La Paloma Blanca” on Broadway. Bus leaves the ARC at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday 18th – 10 Week Aging-Mastery Program Saturday 14th – “Dreamgirls” at Woodlawn Theatre. Classes begin at 1:00 p.m. in the High-Rise Activities Bus leaves the ARC at 6:45 p.m. Room. Space is limited. You need to have signed up on Activities bulletin board to attend this class. Sunday 15th – Symphony Viva and The Alamo Dance th Company present “Symphonic Kineticism” at the Thursday 19 – Meet Leila Meacham, author of Fellowship of San Antonio Church. Bus will leave at “Dragonfly” at 3:00 p.m. in the High-Rise Library for a 4:00 p.m. talk, book sale and signing. Seating is limited and on a “first come-first served” basis. Please see page 7. Tuesday 17th – Lunch at “John the Greek” on San Pedro th with the Luncheonaires. Bus leaves the ARC at 11:00 Thursday 19 – The a.m. Jazz Protagonists present the music of th Wednesday 18 – Broadway S.A. presents “Les Erroll Garner’s iconic Miserables” at Majestic Theatre. Bus leaves the ARC at “Concert by the Sea” 6:30 p.m. for Night Club Night VII Friday 20th – S.A. Symphony presents “Mahler’s at 7:00 p.m. in the Resurrection” at the Tobin Center. Bus leaves at 7:00 High-Rise Auditorium. p.m. Courtesy of Residents
th Al & Lynn Hoppe. Tuesday 24 – Lunch at “Houlihan’s” at The Forum Beer, wine and soft drinks available for purchase. with the Luncheonaires. Bus leaves the ARC at 11:00 a.m. Saturday 21st / Sunday 22nd – ARC Leading Age ArtsInspire Exhibit in Resident’s Lounge. 16 artists from IN-HOUSE ACTIVITIES the ARC entered 20 works of art in this year’s contest in Tuesday 10th – Speaker Luncheon at the Visual and Written Arts categories. They will be 11:30 a.m. in the High-Rise Auditorium. displayed all day Saturday and Sunday for friends and Reservations through Resident Kevin family members to view. Scott, phone 210-646-5820. Speaker: Monday 23rd – Monthly Oasis Classes begin with Mr. Mike Jaeger, Regional Director, “Mindfulness for Stress Reduction” at 10:00 a.m. in the Southwest Texas Veterans Commission. High Rise Activities Room. You need to have signed-up Thursday 12th – Newcomer’s on the Activities bulletin board to attend this class. Reception at 4:00 p.m. in the Space is limited. Auditorium. Those Newcomers Friday 27th – ARCtoberfest at that have received an invitation Lakeside Landing begins at 5:00 p.m. will be formally welcomed by Sign-up on the Activities bulletin the entire community at this board in the High Rise. This is to reception. Everyone is invited to attend. establish an approximate count for Tuesday 17th – USAF Gateway Brass performs at 7:00 food preparation and room set-up p.m. in the High Rise Auditorium. This concert is in purposes. You may still sign-up at the honor of the USAF Birthday on the 18th. Please come event if you did not sign-up on the and show your support for the USAF! list. Please see page 16, back cover.
Activities Coordinator Jane Winzeler is also at [email protected] September 2019 The Eagle 13 Friday, 6 September, Friday, 13 1:30 PM. Running September, 1:30 PM. for Grace (2018) Open Range (2003) 1hr. 50 min. In the 2 hr. 19 min. segregated coffee Rated R. A former fields in 1920s gunslinger is Hawaii - a forced to take up coming-of-age arms again when journey about a he and his crew young man who are threatened by transcends the a corrupt lawman. boundaries of race Starring Robert and class in Duvall, Kevin pursuit of a Costner, Annette forbidden love. Bening. Friday, 20 Saturday, 21 September, 1:30 September, 1:30 PM. PM. Cookie’s King of the Hill Fortune (1999) (1993) Rated PG -13. Rated PG -13. 1 hr. 1 hr. 43 min. A 58 min. Conflict young boy arises in the small struggles on his town of Holly own in a run-down Springs when an motel after his old woman's parents and death causes a younger brother are variety of separated from him reactions among in 1930s family and friends. Depression-era Midwest. Wednesday, Friday, September September 25th - 27th - Matinee DINNER & MOVIE rescreening featuring “Shakespeare in “Shakespeare in Love” (1998) 1:30 Love” (1998) p.m./ 2 hr. 2 min. Happy Hour at Rated R for 4:30 p.m./Dinner sexuality. Young at 5:00 p.m./ Shakespeare, out Movie at 6:15 of ideas and short p.m./ 2 hr. 2min. of cash, meets his Rated R for ideal woman and sexuality. is inspired to write one of his most famous plays. September 2019 The Eagle 14
ARCtoberfest 10th Anniversary
Happy Travelers Menu
The famous and talented Happy Travelers Heineken & Zeigenbock Beer, Cucumber & German Polka Band from New Braunfels will Dill Salad, Carrot Salad, Grilled Bratwurst, again provide a variety of dance music to Ziegeunderschnitzel (chicken schnitzel), Beef include polka, line dancing and, of course, the Rouladen, Red Cabbage & Apples, German chicken dance. Parsley Mashed Potatoes, Spatzel & German Style Cream Spinach, German Tangerine
Cheese Cake & Black Forest Cake
Friday, 27 September 2019
Shuttle: Sign Up Sheets will be Dinner: posted on Bulletin Board 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Art Wall Artist of The Month served twenty years in the U.S. Army Janet Olson – Painting Art before retiring. Later she returned to painting and now has approximately Janet and her husband, Ed, moved to fifteen years time and experience the ARC two years ago. Their choice of devoted to her art. home was a cottage which provides the extra space they wanted for a den, and She enjoys painting portraits, flowers, an area where grilling out would be landscapes, and structures using water- easier than on a high-rise balcony. Prior soluble oils and watercolors. The latter is to moving to the ARC, they resided in more challenging for her because she Helena, Montana for twelve years. finds it least forgiving of any mistakes. She has painted approximately 150 oils and 250 watercolors over time, and sold several of both type of paintings. Many were gifted to friends and family. Janet’s training and continued education in her art has been ongoing for years. During her twelve years in Montana, she participated in regular weekend classes held at the Helena Art Center, and was chairperson of the organization for part of those years. She took lessons from the artist, Bye Bitney, best known in the northwest region of the U.S. From 2008 – 2018, Janet was a member of the Montana Watercolor Society. She is now a member of the River Art Group, San Antonio, and since 2011 continues to be a member of Oil Painters of America Janet with her favorite painting – Surviving The Winter – Oil Her love of painting began in high school where she received art training from her teacher, a retired Navy serviceman. He encouraged her to continue painting and later, as a college freshman, she entered several watercolor paintings into an art show. She sold nine of them and this event gave her conviction of her desire to paint. A Day At The Beach – Watercolor Enjoy more of Janet’s story and her art in After college, Janet painted for a few the continuing pages of this article at years then stopped for about thirty-five. armyresidence.com. (personal portal) During this break from painting, she --- Alfred W. Bates September 2019 The Eagle 16 Art Wall Artist of The Month Continued: Janet Olson – Painting Art One of four popular missions in San Antonio, TX is the San Jose Mission. (Pictured below.) Visiting this mission inspired Janet to paint it. Inspiration to paint many of her art pieces comes from being out with nature, from a variety of photos, and sometimes from the need to create special gifts for family or friends.
Autumn In Glacier – Watercolor
San Jose Mission, San Antonio – Oil Multiple reasons keep Janet motivated to paint, including: just for the fun of it; the personal challenge that comes from creating each art piece; and an emotion she identified as a painters high.
The Nesters – Oil Downy Woodpecker – Oil September 2019 The Eagle 17 Art Wall Artist of The Month Janet Olson
Hill Country Longhorns – Watercolor
Calcutta Market – Watercolor
Old Man With His Pipe – Oil
Kate's Garden – Watercolor Janet has a website at: janetmolson.com Several of her paintings are on display there for your enjoyment and for Mountain Gem - Oil purchase. --- Alfred W. Bates
September 2019 The Eagle 18 ArtsInspire Winners Celebrated at LeadingAge Texas page 19 state. LeadingAge Texas receives over 200 From the LeadingAge Texas website: entries every year that are judged by experts in the field such as university professors, artists, What is LeadingAge Texas? authors, etc. The judges are always impressed with the quality of work submitted and the LeadingAge Texas (formerly the Texas expression displayed through various medias. Association of Homes and Services for the Aging - TAHSA) was established in 1959 as a ArtsInspire™ is a core program of LeadingAge Texas not-for-profit corporation. Its purpose is Texas—2019 will mark the contest's 29th to provide leadership, advocacy, and education year—and we at LeadingAge Texas believe for not-for-profit retirement housing and nursing that this project is one of the most positive home communities that serve the needs of tools we can utilize to highlight the positives of Texas retirees. the aging process as it educates the public on the value of the creativity expressed by older As a trade association representing the full Texans! continuum of mission-driven, not-for-profit ------aging services providers, LeadingAge Texas is When and Where was the Event which committed to assisting its members in Celebrated ArtsInpire Winners? providing the highest quality of services The Awards celebration was held on Saturday, possible to the residents they serve. 10 August, at the Westminster, a retirement community in Austin. What’s the size of LeadingAge Texas? This is a link to photo-essay of the ArtsInpire The association is comprised of more than 350 winners in each category for 2019: members, including approximately 200 of https://www.canva.com/design/DADh69qfF3E/f Texas' finest retirement housing communities, j_o4xgiyVRBL1RGyvYQYQ/view?website#4:di assisted living facilities, continuing care stinguished-arts:6 retirement communities, nursing homes, and Who from the ARC was recognized? home and community-based services providers. The ARC Residents receiving awards were:
Over 30,000 older Texans reside in Sandra Edsall, 1st Place, category: Soft Crafts, LeadingAge Texas-member communities. Sewing. Thousands more are served through home health services, adult day care centers, and Dottie Hilton, 3rd Place, category: Soft Crafts, other community out-reach services. Textile. LeadingAge Texas members are sponsored primarily by community-based nonprofit civic, Susan Richmond, 2nd Place, category: Master religious, fraternal, and other quality groups Works. and are mission-driven organizations. Susan Richmond, 2nd Place, category: What is ArtsInspire? Painting, Watercolor
ArtsInspire™ encapsulates the idea that Bobbi Robinson: 3rd Place, category: Poetry whether one continues a lifelong passion or pursues a new hobby later in life, the arts Susan Sabino, 1st Place, category: Poetry. inspire ageless creativity! This is the second consecutive year Susan Sabino has won first place in Poetry. ArtsInspire™ is a contest that showcases the artistic talents of older Texans from not-for- Susan’s poem, Election Season at the Library, profit aging services communities across the is on the following page ArtsInspire Winners Celebrated at LeadingAge Texas page 20
Election Season at the Library
By Susan Sabino
I sit on the bench in my faded freckled skin, out of breath, impatient legs crossed, toes tapping time. Inside, workers hurry -- making ready for the day.
It is 9:52 a.m. outside the library. Security gates open at exactly 10:00 a.m. because rules matter.
My scuffed satchel leans against the bench full of teacher tools: stories, stickers, poems, spelling lists, and dreams.
Under the oak across from me, a woman sits
softly humming. Her skin is like dark chocolate,
her smile -- a sunrise.
"Good mornin' to you!" she offers, gracious as my grandmother. "Glory to the Lord, what a beautiful day!"
Against her knees, a tiny girl sits criss-cross-applesauce, her small fingers pushing a purple crayon outside the color book lines.
Braids straight as pencils march across her head, a division lesson on her scalp, taught by gentle hands twisting hair.
Now, a man pushes a walker slowly up the ramp, his skin like golden harvest, and a woman follows -• arms burdened with books, as if with child.
One binding is familiar: English as a Second Language. Soft Spanish syllables circle around them. I don't understand, but I love the sounds they make.
Struggling, unsure, I try: "Halal Senor y Senora!" "Good - morning - to - you!" they answer, each word a gift offered.
It's election time in our country. Peaceful lines snake
half a block back. Voters study long yellow ballots
as they inch along, ignoring angry signs.
My Pakistani students arrive: a brother and sister. Sleepy but willing, they smile at me -- the tutor who brings candy and vocabulary.
Together, we wait to enter this hushed, hopeful place. Some will read a comic book, many will browse the web. Others will vote their conscience.
Bless this America, with its libraries. Bless its striving workers. Bless the rainbow of people voting. And bless all the books, opening in peace.
ArtsInspire Winners Celebrated at LeadingAge Texas page 21
Above: Susan Sabino receives the 1st Place Award for Poetry.
Above Right: At the ArtsInpire celebration reception, Susan reads the poem which was awarded 1st Place: Election Season at the Library.
Right: The Awards Reception and Gallery Display, at Westminster.
ArtsInspire Winners Celebrated at LeadingAge Texas page 22
Above Left: Soft Crafts: Sewing | Sandra Edsall, Army Residence Community | 1st Place: "Hibiscus" — at Westminster.
Above: Soft Crafts: Textile | Sandra Edsall accepting on behalf of Dottie Hilton, Army Residence Community | 3rd Place: "Knitted Hat for Cancer Patient" — at Westminster.
Left: Sandra Edsall’s 1st Place submission: Hibisicus
ArtsInspire Winners Celebrated at LeadingAge Texas page 23
Above: Painting: Watercolor | Susan Richmond, Army Residence Community | 2nd Place: "Man from Tibet" — at Westminster.
Above Right: Susan Richmond’s Watercolor submission: Man from Tibet
Right: Susan’s Master Works submission: Home on the Range
ArtsInspire Winners Celebrated at LeadingAge Texas page 24
Left: Barbara “Bobbi” Robinson
Poetry, Awarded 3rd Place Winner, for the submission: May My Words Fall Gently
May My Words Fall Gently
By Barbara Robinson
May my words fall gently Let them drift with love Inspire with peace Touch with hope
I know that they may slip away with times relentless toll
Let the sacred work that they may inspire live eternally.
Above and Right: Dottie Hilton, and her Soft Crafts, Textile submission awarded 3rd Place, “Knitted Hat for Cancer Patient.” 240 Years Ago: September 1789 – by Mike Huebner page 25 Navy deserters and former prisoners-of-war, and a scattering of seamen from eight other countries.
Jones was nominally in command of a small squadron consisting of six other ships: three French Navy vessels, two French privateers, and a new American 32-gun frigate, the Alliance, commanded by a rather strange Frenchman named Pierre Landais (who had been made an honorary citizen of Massachusetts).
Early in the voyage the three French Navy ships turned back or disappeared, the privateers sailed off to do their own thing, and Landais bluntly informed Jones that he was
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION determined to act “where and when he thought 240 YEARS AGO: SEPTEMBER 1779 proper” irrespective of Jones’s wishes! It was JOHN PAUL JONES: “I HAVE NOT YET not an auspicious start. BEGUN TO FIGHT” Late in the afternoon of 23 September, off When we last saw John Paul Jones (above), Flamborough Head on the east coast of it was May 1778. He had just returned to England, the Bonhomme Richard intercepted a France following his successful voyage in 41-ship convoy escorted by H.M.S. Serapis, a command of the Ranger, with the captured 44-gun frigate, and H.M.S. Countess of H.M.S. Drake in tow [See the April 2018 issue Scarborough, a 20-gun sloop. Jones ordered of the Eagle]. Jones spent the next several his crew to battle stations as the British escorts months lobbying for another ship and a new moved to put themselves between the convoy mission. and the Bonhomme Richard. Then,
Jones eventually got his wish in early 1779: unexpectedly, at this most opportune time, one command of a converted 900-ton former East of the French frigates from Jones’s squadron, India merchant ship, the Duc de Duras. In the Pallas, reappeared and engaged the honor of his patron, Benjamin Franklin, Jones Countess of Scarborough, leaving Jones and renamed her Bonhomme Richard. [Franklin’s Bonhomme Richard to deal with the larger Poor Richard’s Almanack was highly popular in Serapis. France, translated as Les Maximes du Bonhomme Richard.] Darkness was falling as the two ships cleared for battle. Serapis’s captain, Richard Jones new ship was of dubious value as a Pearson, realized that his ship was the more warship, though, long past her prime and maneuverable and tried to gain advantage by seriously in need of refitting. The forty-two cutting across the bow or stern of the guns on board were a mixed bag of types and Bonhomme Richard. Such a maneuver would calibers, some of them, too, well past their allow his ship to fire a full broadside without prime. fear of significant return fire. But Jones was a But Jones went to work getting his ship ready capable seaman, able to keep his ship to sail and recruiting a crew. Of the positioned to prevent that. approximately 380 men who set sail with Jones on 14 August 1779, less than 60 were Americans; the rest were a diverse collection of French sailors and French marines, British 240 Years Ago: September 1789 – by Mike Huebner page 26
the mast. Thinking that Jones had taken down his flag, Pearson called out: “Has your ship struck? Do you call for quarter?” Jones’s exact reply was variously reported by different observers, perhaps something to the effect of “I may sink, but I’ll be damned if I strike” or “I haven’t as yet thought of surrendering.” But what has come down in history is his defiant: “I have not yet begun to fight.”
But just as it seemed Jones would have little choice but surrender, with his ship on fire and sinking, fate intervened. One of Jones’s men tossed a grenade into an open hatch on As both ships fired broadside after broadside, the Serapis. The grenade detonated a pile of (above) at one point less than twenty-five gunpowder bags, devastating the gun deck. yards apart, the devastation aboard each was Flames swept across the British ship. horrendous. Two of the old, unreliable 18- Pearson, now, was the one with no choice but pound guns aboard the Bonhomme Richard to surrender. exploded, killing the gun crews and wreaking even greater havoc below decks. The bloody battle had lasted more than three hours. More than half the men involved on Jones saw that he was getting the worst of each side were dead or wounded. Both ships the gun duel. His only option was to close with were in shambles, but the Bonhomme Richard the Serapis and try to board her. But Pearson was in worse shape, in danger of sinking at realized what Jones was up to and kept his any time. Jones transferred his crew to the ship away. Then, a stray gust of wind blew the Serapis, then watched the next morning as the two ships together, entangling their spars and dependable Bonhomme Richard slipped lines. At point-blank range, the two kept up the beneath the waves. cannonade while marines high in the “fighting tops” maintained a heavy fire down onto the The battle off Flamborough Head was the decks with their muskets and pistols. high point of Jones’s career. “Few actions at sea have demonstrated such steady, cool, About 9:15 p.m. the Alliance suddenly came determined bravery,” wrote Benjamin Franklin. onto the scene of the two ships locked in Jones spent the rest of the war in Europe, combat. Inexplicably, Landais fired not one, waiting to get command of a 74-gun warship but two, broadsides into the Bonhomme under construction, the America. But that ship Richard, inflicting even greater damage and was given to France at war’s end. more casualties. Was this an intentional act or a case of mistaken identity in all the smoke and Jones later served in the Russian Navy, confusion? Or was Landais just crazy, as rising to the rank of admiral, but died in Paris in some thought? [Jones subsequently brought 1792 at the age of forty-five, alone and in charges against him at a court-martial, poverty. In 1905, his body was located and resulting in Landais’s dismissal from service.] exhumed. It was returned to America in 1906, where it now lies in the Sarcophagus in the At one point, a British cannon ball carried chapel of the United States Naval Academy in away the American flag Jones had nailed to Annapolis. World War II: Europe, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner
the German Army off balance, unable to concentrate against any one sector of the front.
But when Montgomery offered a plan for multiple airborne drops in Holland to seize key bridges across the Rhine and its tributaries, to be followed by a rapid thrust by a heavy armored corps to secure that bridgehead, Eisenhower was intrigued. It was an audacious plan, totally out of character for Montgomery, the master of the meticulously planned, set-piece battle. If it worked, though, it would liberate much of Holland and outflank the German defenses of the West Wall. Under pressure from General George Marshall to make better use of the highly-trained parachute and glider forces available (who had not been
WORLD WAR II: EUROPE in action since Normandy), Eisenhower gave 75 YEARS AGO: SEPTEMBER 1944 the go-ahead for OPERATION MARKET- GARDEN. OPERATION MARKET-GARDEN “THE BRIDGE TOO FAR” The plan called for three airborne divisions –
By September 1944, Paris had been the American 82nd and 101st and the British 1st liberated and the German Army in the West – to capture and hold a series of bridges before was in full retreat. Some in the Allied they could be destroyed. The 101st would land headquarters were already talking about an by parachute and glider near Eindhoven, end to the war as early as December. where eleven key road and railroad bridges were located. The 82nd would land in and But the Allied armies, which had made such around Nijmegen to secure another eleven sweeping gains across France in late July and bridges. The final link in the chain was the August, were slowing to a crawl. Lengthening bridge over the Rhine at Arnhem, the objective supply lines, complicated by a shortage of of the British 1st Airborne Division. usable ports, impeded the Allied advance. Antwerp, Europe’s largest port, was still in As the bridges fell German hands, compounding the logistical into Allied hands, the problems. German defenses were stiffening as British XXX Corps, the army fell back on their own homeland and under Lieutenant bases of supply. The optimistic hope of many General Sir Brian GIs – “Home by Christmas” – was looking Horrocks (left), more and more unlikely. would drive up a narrow two-lane Bernard Law Montgomery, now a Field highway from the Marshall (above), was arguing for a narrow Belgian-Dutch thrust into the heart of Germany along a single border, crossing line of advance, with the full weight of the Allied each bridge in turn, armies under a single ground force with the objective of commander – Montgomery, of course. relieving the 1st Eisenhower resisted Montgomery’s entreaties, Airborne at Arnhem and securing the insisting that an advance across a broad front, bridgehead over the Rhine. The XXX Corps with each of the armies and army groups advance was expected to take two days, at the moving forward simultaneously, would keep most, but the 1st Airborne was told to be prepared to hold the bridge at Arnhem for as
27 The Eagle September 2019 World War II: Europe, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner long as four days, if necessary. It was an Sunday, 17 September. Unfortunately, the ominous warning. drop zones were almost eight miles from
Planning for the operation, set to commence Arnhem and their primary objective, the on 17 September, was marked by haste and massive bridge over the Rhine. Assembling optimism, too much haste and optimism in the the force took time, giving the Germans in the minds of many at the headquarters involved. area time to recover. Heavy fighting took place Of even greater concern was the absence of in the narrow streets and alleys of Arnhem. good intelligence about German capabilities in the area. When aerial photo reconnaissance and the Dutch Resistance provided evidence of the presence of two German panzer divisions reorganizing and refitting near Arnhem, senior officers at Montgomery’s headquarters and at Allied First Airborne Army headquarters casually dismissed the information as irrelevant.
Major General Roy Urquhart (above), the division commander, moving forward to direct the battle, found himself cut off and isolated, forced to take shelter in an attic. For almost forty critical hours, he was out of contact with his division.
Only one intact unit, 500 men from Lieutenant Colonel
Still, there was considerable unease. XXX John Frost’s (left) Corps, with thousands of tanks and other 2nd Battalion, First vehicles, would be moving along a single, Parachute slightly-elevated roadway across the flat, Brigade, was able water-logged Dutch countryside, with little to fight its way to ability to maneuver off road and numerous the north end of locations where determined defenders could the bridge, but slow the advance. And, if any one of the key were unable to bridges was not captured on time or was secure the entire destroyed ahead of the XXX Corps advance, span. They had to the entire operation could be delayed or shelter in place in derailed. Lieutenant General Frederick “Boy” the buildings Browning (above), the Deputy Commander of surrounding the the First Airborne Army, expressed some of bridge exits on the those concerns, supposedly telling north shore of the Montgomery, “I think we might be going a Rhine. German bridge too far.” efforts to dislodge them were unsuccessful, but Frost’s men were trapped, with limited supplies The British 1st Airborne – the famed “Red and ammunition, out of radio contact with Devils” – began landing north of the Rhine by Urquhart and the division headquarters. glider and parachute just after noon on 28 The Eagle September 2019 World War II: Europe, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner midnight they were still six miles from Meanwhile, the 82nd Airborne landings Eindhoven. between Grave and Not until late the next afternoon – twenty-four Nijmegen, to the south of hours behind schedule – did XXX Corps roll Arnhem, were going into Eindhoven. British engineers worked better, although Major feverishly throughout the night to erect a General James Gavin “Bailey Bridge” over the Willems canal. (right), the youngest The next day, XXX Corps raced from Son to division commander in Nijmegen, hoping to make up for lost time. But the U.S. Army since the the Germans were well-positioned at Nijmegen Civil War, fractured two and repulsed a coordinated attack by the 82nd vertebrae in a hard Airborne and the Guards Armored Division. parachute landing. The bridge at Nijmegen – just eleven miles Ignoring the pain, Gavin soon had his men at from Arnhem – remained in German hands. work securing the vital bridges over the Waal and Maas rivers. By nightfall, only the final Gavin then proposed an amphibious crossing bridge, the massive span over the Waal at downstream from the bridge to try to outflank Nijmegan, was still in German hands. They the German defenses. Horrocks agreed, but would have to wait for XXX Corps to help take had to send word back to the rear of the that bridge. column to bring forward assault boats to carry out the river crossing. More time was lost, time To the south, the embattled 1st Division in Arnhem did not Major General have. An ominous message was delivered by Maxwell Taylor’s the Dutch Resistance: “Germans winning at (left) 101st Arnhem!” Airborne landed in and around The delay in getting the assault boats Eindhoven, and forward and assembled meant that the river moved swiftly to crossing did not get underway until late in the secure the critical afternoon on the 20th. None of the bridges over the paratroopers had ever attempted something Aa River and the like this. The small plywood-and-canvas boats Willems canal. were unwieldly and hard to manage. Some But just as the paratroopers approached the capsized in the swift current. Those that did bridge at Son, the entire span blew up in their not sink were taken under intense fire by the faces. Working quickly, they were able to get a Germans on the north bank. Casualties were foot bridge in place over the ruins and heavy, but enough of Gavin’s men got across managed to get a battalion across the canal to to capture the north end of the bridge. At the secure the north bank. To construct a vehicle same time, the Guards launched an all-out bridge, though, would take equipment the assault on the south end, finally breaking paratroopers did not have. They, too, would through the German positions. have to wait for XXX Corps. To the dismay of Gavin and his weary The XXX Corps set out late on the afternoon paratroopers, who had fought so hard to of the 17th, expecting to reach Eindhoven by secure the bridge at Nijmegen, the XXX Corps nightfall, only thirteen miles away. But soon chose to bivouac for the night rather than after they started, a German ambush knocked racing on to Arnhem. In Horrocks’s defense, out the lead tanks, holding up the entire the British were low on fuel and ammunition. column until the road could be cleared. It was And the road between Nijmegen and Arnhem a pattern to be repeated again and again was now heavily defended by the Germans, throughout the afternoon and into the night. By who realized what the ultimate objective was
29 The Eagle September 2019 World War II: Europe, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner in the city, short of food, water, medical supplies and ammunition. Parachute resupply drops mostly fell in German hands. Radio communication with XXX Corps was spotty, at best.
Late that afternoon, the 1st Polish Independent Parachute Brigade jumped into drop zones on the south bank of the Rhine across from Arnhem in an attempt to reinforce the “Red Devils.” But their efforts to cross the river under German fire were a failure. The Poles, too, could do little but wait for XXX Corps.
Not until late evening on the 22nd were advanced elements of XXX Corps able to fight through and reach the Poles. But that was little comfort to Urquhart and the surviving “Red Devils” across the river. The 1st Division’s perimeter had been reduced to a pocket less than a mile deep and a mile and a half wide, under such heavy fire that the Germans called it Der Hexenkessel – the witch’s cauldron. With so many casualties, and medical supplies exhausted, Urquhart had to request a truce on the 24th to turn his wounded over to the Germans. The next day, Montgomery finally agreed that the operation had failed. The only thing left to do was to try to save the remnants of the 1st Airborne. The survivors were ordered to break out of the perimeter and try to get to the river. There, small boats were waiting to get as many to safety as possible. Some had no choice but to swim the Rhine. Others, unable to escape, and had rushed reinforcements into the area. were captured. Of the 10,000 paratroopers It would take infantry to help clear the way, who landed on the north bank of the Rhine, infantry that had to be brought up from the only 2,200 made it back across the river. rear. Total Allied casualties for the failed venture The advance did not get underway until late were in excess of 17,000 killed, wounded, morning on the 21st. Just six miles from captured, or missing. While the Allies held a Arnhem, though, several tanks were knocked 60-mile swath of the Netherlands, they had not out, holding up the entire column for several achieved a bridgehead over the Rhine nor hours. liberated Holland. In fact, the Germans The British paratroopers in Arnhem were in wreaked a brutal vengeance on the Dutch desperate straits. Frost’s battalion at the civilians who had tried to help the Allies. “Boy” bridge was finally overwhelmed and forced to Browning may have been right: they had tried surrender. The rest of the division was trapped to go “a bridge too far.” 30 The Eagle September 2019 World War II: Pacific, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner
But most of Nimitz’s staff and senior commanders – including Admiral William “Bull” Halsey, who would command the U.S. Navy’s Third Fleet in support of the Philippine operation – felt that an invasion of the Palaus was unnecessary. Naval air power alone, they argued, could isolate and neutralize any Japanese threat from that quarter. But Nimitz was unmoved: the 1st Marine Division, he directed, would land on the island of Peleliu on 15 September to secure the Japanese airfield there.
Halsey’s view was reinforced just days before WORLD WAR II: PACIFIC the scheduled invasion of Peleliu. Naval air 75 YEARS AGO: SEPTEMBER 1944 strikes against the Philippines met limited PELELIU: “SOMEBODY FORGOT TO GIVE resistance, revealing that Japanese air power THE ORDER TO CALL IT OFF” there was almost non-existent. Halsey recommended an immediate strike into the With the decision made to invade the heart of the Philippines at Leyte. Nimitz southern Philippines, Admiral Chester Nimitz’s agreed – with one proviso – and the Joint Central Pacific Command was tasked to Chiefs subsequently directed General Douglas support that operation. But one chain of coral MacArthur to bypass the southern Philippines atolls southeast of the Philippines was of and invade Leyte not later than 20 October. concern to Nimitz: Japanese air bases in the But Nimitz still insisted that the invasion of Palaus, he believed, could pose a threat to Peleliu (above left) go ahead as planned. naval forces operating against the Philippines.
31 The Eagle September 2019 World War II: Pacific, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner
Peleliu was honey- combed with caves and tunnels, the remnants of years of phosphate mining. The nearly 10,500 Japanese soldiers of the 14th Division had spent months expanding the caves and tunnels into a vast network of mutually supporting defensive positions. And the Still, the Marines advanced steadily across division commander, Lieutenant General the southern end of the island, occupying part Sadae Inoue, implemented a modification to of the airfield by the end of the first day. A the tactical doctrine: instead of trying to stop massive Japanese counterattack that night, led the invasion on the beaches, his forces would by light tanks, failed to break through the fall back into the caves, intending to inflict Marine position. By the end of the second day, massive casualties on the Marines trying to the airfield was secured. But until the flush them out. “It will shock them beyond Japanese could be dislodged from the high imagination,” he declared. ground north of the airfield, a tangled maze of coral ridges, crags, and gulches known as the Air strikes against the island began in late Umurbrogol, the airfield would be unusable.
August, followed by three days of naval The battle for the Umurbrogol became a bombardment leading up to the invasion. nightmare. The Marines had to fight their way While most of the surface structures were up one ridge at a time, with little or no cover, destroyed, the caves dug into the coral ridges under fire from hidden caves and tunnels in were almost untouched. front of them and – far too often – behind them. Even after taking one ridge, they came under The Marines of the 1st Division came ashore fire from the next ridge and the next. The on the western beaches of the island at 8:00 oppressive heat and a shortage of water added a.m. on 15 September (above and next page, even more losses to the already heavy combat top). There was little fire from Japanese casualties. positions at first, but as follow-on waves came ashore, firing increased. It was obvious the By 20 September, just six days after landing, pre-invasion bombardment had been less than the 1st Marine Regiment had sustained more effective. than 1700 casualties, and was effectively finished as a combat unit. One Marine still on his feet said: “We aren’t a regiment, we’re the survivors of a regiment.” The 7th Marine 32 The Eagle September 2019 World War II: Pacific, 75 Years Ago: September 1944 – by Mike Huebner
Regiment was thrown into the battle, but could The brutal fighting continued through October make little headway either. and into November, before the last Japanese strongholds could be eliminated. Almost the On 23 September, the U.S. Army’s 321st entire garrison – more than 10,000 men – had Regimental Combat Team from the 81st Infantry Division landed on Peleliu to augment been killed. American losses on Peleliu were 1,252 Marines and 277 soldiers killed, 5,274 the Marines. The 81st had easily secured the nearby – and lightly defended – island of Marines and 1,008 soldiers wounded, not to mention the hundreds of others who had to be Anguar. But even with the help of the 321st evacuated as non-battle casualties. RCT, clearing the Umurbrogol was proving to be more costly than expected. The costly battle for Peleliu went almost unnoticed in the United States, overshadowed On 25 September, the 5th Marine Regiment managed to slip past the Umurbrogol, using by the dramatic events taking place in the the narrow coastal plain along the western Philippines beginning in October. “It seemed edge of the island. Then, supported by tanks to us,” wrote one Marine officer, “that and off-shore naval gunfire, the Marines somebody forgot to give the order to call off attacked the Umurbrogol from the north, with Peleliu. That’s one place nobody wants to remember.” much the same results.
Even with the rest of the island in American Was the battle for Peleliu necessary? In hands by late September, Japanese defenders hindsight, it appears that Halsey was right – in the Umurbrogol continued to fight. Flame- the Palaus could have been by-passed. But thrower tanks and armored bulldozers had to given the information available in the summer be used to take out each cave and tunnel, one of 1944, and the uncertainty of how operations in the Philippines would play out, Nimitz felt he at a time. In late October, the Army’s 323rd Regimental Combat Team was brought in to was justified in ordering the operation. Those who fought there might have had a different relieve the 5th and 7th Marines, who were down to less than half-strength. opinion.
33 The Eagle September 2019 The REAL ID Act page 34
The Texas Department of Public Safety is committed to protecting the citizens of Texas by only licensing individuals who are properly identified and can demonstrate their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle on public roadways.
The United States Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 in response to the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The REAL ID Act requires states to adopt and implement uniform standards for the issuance and production of state- issued driver licenses and identification cards if they are to be accepted as identity documents by the federal government. This Act strengthens the integrity and security of state-issued cards in an effort to reduce identity fraud and terrorism.
Beginning October 1, 2020, only state-issued driver licenses and identification cards that are fully compliant with the REAL ID Act will be accepted for official federal government purposes, such as entering secure federal buildings or boarding domestic flights. Texas began issuing REAL ID compliant cards on October 10, 2016, and these cards are marked with a gold circle with an inset star located in the upper right-hand corner, as seen in the examples below.
All Texas driver licenses and identification cards, both compliant (star) and non- compliant (no star) are valid until the expiration date shown on the card. If you replaced or renewed your card after October 10, 2016, and have a gold star in the right-hand corner, your card is REAL ID compliant and no further action is required on your part. You may continue to use your compliant card for federal identification purposes until it expires.
If your card does not have the star, you can continue to use the card after October 1, 2020, but it will only be accepted for state-related purposes such as driving (driver license only), banking, and voting. It will not be accepted as identification for federal purposes.
34 The Eagle September 2019 Skype Unites Navy Generations at Promotion Ceremony page 35
Three generations of Wakeland men were The skipper of the Barry, Commander united during a promotion ceremony using Blodgett, approved of the connection, and Skype technology for a few minutes earlier this began the promotion in the wardroom of the year, when Resident Bill Wakeland (CAPT, destroyer, attended by many of the ship’s USN, Ret.) connected via internet circuits officers. Bill Wakeland followed the action from arranged by his son Richard Wakeland (CAPT, home on Antietam Drive, and proudly wore the USN, Ret.) and reaching Bill’s grandson Navy Class A uniform. There was a party-like Lieutenant Michael Wakeland, aboard the atmosphere aboard the Barry, and the mood Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer changed to military precision and tradition. Bill the USS John Barry (DDG-52, above). administered to Michael the promotion oath.
Skype Unites Navy Generations at Promotion Ceremony page 36 “I will defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies. . . “(see photo The US Navy bottom of preceding page) Public Affairs listed Bill had submitted this report to The Eagle: this information regarding the USS THIS SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WAS Barry: APPROVED BY THE SKIPPER (Commander William C. Blodgett Jr.). MICHAEL AND MY Barry’s namesake SON RICHARD (at right) MADE THE honors Commodore ARRANGEMENTS AND THE CONNECTIONS John Barry, WERE TESTED PRIOR TO THE EVENT. THE Revolutionary War SETTING ON THE BARRY WAS IN THE hero and first WARDROOM. HERE AT HOME IN OUR DEN. commissioned THERE WERE MANY OF THE SHIP'S officer in the United OFFICERS THERE, IT WAS SORT OF A States Navy. Barry PARTY. PRIOR THE ACTUAL OATH THERE is assigned to WAS SOME LAUGHING AND MOVING Destroyer Squadron 15. Presently, the ship is AROUND AS THINGS WERE SET UP AND forward deployed to the US 7th Fleet area of operation in support of security and stability in CHECKED OUT. PARTY SNACKS WERE PLACED AROUND THE WARDROOM. the Indo-Pacific region. Barry is one of eight surface combatants IT WAS NOTED BY THIS OLD SAILOR THAT assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15, the Navy's THERE SEVERAL FEMALE OFFICERS, (I largest forward deployed Destroyer Squadron. DON'T DISAPPROVE). IT WAS NOTED THAT The eight destroyers are the principal surface AFTER THE PROMOTION THE LADIES forces of Battle Force Seventh Fleet in the HUGGED MICHAEL BUT THE MEN SHOOK Western Pacific and Indian Oceans. HANDS AND SLAPPED ON HIS BACK. Barry’s home port is Yokosuka, Japan. WOW! "WHAT'S THE NAVY COMING TO???"