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1-1-1968

The Octofoil, January/February 1968

Ninth Infantry Division Association

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VOLUME XXIII Association Dues: $4.00 per year - $1.50 ,NUMBER 3 THE NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION will be earmarked. to pay for The Octofoil Weehawken, N. J. 07087-412 Gregory Ave. Jan. - Feb. 1968 MICHIGAN. HERE WE COME •• • Detroit The Place SCRAMBLING FOR RESERVATIONS IN DETROIT July 18th The Date This year, Ford, G.M.C.,and This year the Detroit Chap­ American Motors won't Ji)e the ter went all out to secure the only people making news in De­ services of a suitable band for troit. The Ninth Division As­ the parade. JOM Bonkowski sociation also plans to make went right to the tOPi he re­ headlines when it holds its An­ quested the assistance of Rep. nual Reunion in the Motor City. Lucien N. Nedzi of Detroit and The boys from the Detroit through the Congressman's help Chapter have taken a page from we were able to secure the serv­ the motor magnet's manual and ices of the 70th Division Band. have put the 1968 Reunion onan Major General Carl J. Dueser, assembly line. Eachphase ofthe Commander of the 70th Divi­ reunion has been assigned to a sion has advised John that the different chai·rman, and each band will be ready and waiting chairman will be responsible at 1000 hours 20 JUly 1968. So for getting one particular op­ get your feet in shape and be eration into perfect shape. prepared for a lively march through downtown Detroit. The Statler-Hilton Hotel still When July 18th rolls around has plenty of -rooms available . the Reunion Chairman, BobDe­ for the Reunion, and the rates 'Sandy, will fit each individual are very reasonable. $10.00for operation into the overall plan, Singles, $15.00 for Doubles, and and· thus assure the members $17.00 for Twins. Don't forget of the Association a smooth that the room rates include free running and enjoyable reunion. parking. These special rates Bob will be aided by Bill Mead­ will prevail for three days pre­ ows - Co-Chairman,JoeCasey­ ceding and three days after the Treasur~t, BruceMlor - Golf, Reunion, so if you plan to ar­ James Brunner - PrOgram,Joe f1ve early and depart late, you Casey - Registration, Elmer can still take advantage of the Wagner - Publicity, Bill Mead­ special rates. When making ows - Dance, Jim Dawson ­ your reservations at the hotel MOCK BOAT PRACTICE (Fort Bragg, N. C. - 1942) Banquet, JOM Bonkowski- Me­ be sure to mention that you are morial Service. HOSPITALITY attending the Ninth Division Re­ will be provided by the entire union. Detroit Chapter. All reports coming out of GENERAL O'CONNOR ADDRESSES TROOPS Everyone, especially Old Sol­ Detroit indicate that the :nem­ diers, love a parade. If you bers of the Association will The following is taken from money come from? We botn proper channels, they couldac­ doubt the veracity of this state­ have a wonderful time In De­ the Division newspaper, The Old know the answer to that ques­ complish a great deal more and, ment, come to the Reunion and troit. This year when making Reliable. An address by the tion. The same source is also at the same time, gain support you will change yoW" mind when plans for your vacation keep Commanding General, Major buying weapons for North Viet from other Americans. After you see the Old Rellables step­ in mind the dates July 18th General George O'Connor Nam. all, you are fighting and dying piag off on their march to the through the 20th and set them "Then there are other pro­ for a cause with dignity and Mlnnorial Service. Each year aside for the Ninth Inf. Div. I receive a number of let- testers. The ones who are pro­ courage. We ~t home should we grow more portly and our Reunion in Detroit. . [ers from parents and relatives testing because they don't like do the same. aehes and pains become more of members of the Division. the world they have inherited. "In closing, let me say this pronounced, but when that mili­ One came recently from Mrs. They really don't know if they to you, my adopted sons: these tary band sounds off we forget *** Beverly Lasher, whose son, like it or not -- because they've protesters are mostly ofa Iegal everything but the cadence. Richard, of Company C, 5th never had the courage to face age to be calledadults. Theycan Nephew Serves Battalion, 60th Infantry, was that world! They're more to never be called men. On the Heart-felt killed in action in August. She be pitied than censured. other hand, most of you are not' has been writing to members "Next there are many people of a legalage to be called adults, With Ninth of Company C but due to DEROO who have very limited knowl­ but everyone of you has earned Gratitude During World War II, Lou and the Infusion Program her edge, and also lack the ability the right to be called men. Vivolo of E. Boston, Mass. contacts have been scattf'red to acqUire further kno'wledge. "Twenty years from now, this This is to express my heart­ served with the 9th. M. P. and she did not know the name They chant, 'Thou shall not kill' country will be managed by you felt gratitude to you and all the Co. Now his nephew, PFC of the new company commander. as they protest. They're right. men. You will have responsible Officers and Members of the 9th Joe Vivolo, is in Viet Nam Being concerned about the The Bible does say this. But positions in government, in­ Infantry Division Association serving with C Co. of the 47th. effect that the protest marches the same Bible also states that dustry, educational establish­ for the many kindnesses and ex­ Young Joe was wounded in might have on the men serving there are certain principles we ments, and the military. These pressiQns of sympathy. You action, but after two weeks in here, she asked me to have the must defend and certain rights same protesters will still be have always been so good to the hospital he returned to duty letter below posted on the bul­ worth fighting for. protesting. Paul and me. and is now back in action. This letin board. I think it is so good "Freedom for all is one of . "It takes personal courage to Paul devoted a big part of is the spirit that made the that you should all share it: these things. If they truly knew accept responsibility. Each of his life to the Association and "By now, each of you has you has an abundance of this Ninth Division famous. Let's the Bible, tRey would ~ow that I am sure never regretted a heard about the protest march commodity. I am most sincere hope that this young soldier our in volvement in Viet Nam is moment of it. He always con­ on the Pentagon. I imagine ev­ as I say to each of you ••• I am continues to have good luck not the first time Christians sidered himself so fortunate and returns home safely. ery one of you has questions so very proud of you. Thank in your mind you would like to have had to defend the weak you -- just for being there." for the association and friend­ and oppressed. Freedom is an ship with you and all the mem­ have answered. Mrs. Lasher closed her let­ *** "You deserve to know what obligation ... not a right. ter with these words: bers of the 9th Division. "Some of the protesters were Paul's well written obituary the responsible citizens think "My son was very prOUd to Thanks General about this so-called protest. on 'trips' (LSD and other es­ serve in the 9th. In his worqs, in the Octofoil and all the let­ cape drugs). We can't hold them ters of condolence have been a General Craig took the time As a mother who recently lost 'Mom, the 9th is the best damn her son while fighting with the responsible for their actions outfit in the Army.' Based on source of comfort. I have writ­ to write in answer to the ques­ while under the influence of ten Father Connors in a feeble tion in the last Octofoil. Who 9th, as a property and business the letters I receive from you owner, and an active partici­ these drugs. young men, I concur." attempt to express myapprecl­ named Old Reliables? The "There are a few remaining ation for the Memorial Serv­ pant in politics and civic af­ God bless you, Mrs. Lasher. answer is on page 313 of our fairs, I feel I am as responsi­ protesters who do not agree with ices and dinner in Worcester. the administration of the con­ Everyone has been so good to history book "8 Stars to Vic­ ble as anyone. flict in Viet Nam. This is their *** me. tory." General Huebner, V "Let me tell you what I would Corps Commander, is credited tell my own son. First of all, right. None can argue with this. Please assist me in convey­ But, aren't you there, fighting ing my appreciation to all of with the nickname. you all know 'protesters' can be hired by the day, the week, or to defend the right of free men Remember Paul's and my friends for their to disagree and protest? kind consideration in my time what-have-you. Their rates de­ ~ * ** IIAs a reasonable citizen, I of sorrow. pend upon what Is expected of the Dates PAY YOUR them. Carrying signs calls for feel that if they would protest Rememl,er tlie dates luI' the Sincerely, in-.a dignified manner, through Tippie Plunkett a certain rate, singing for an­ 10G8 Reunion - JUly 18, 19,20. 1968 DUES NOW!!!! other. etc. Where does this _p_a..::..ge_2 ~T H E 0 C T 0 F 0 I L Art Schmidt :::~~7~=;1 Unable to Report r." T II Forms 3579 should be sent to 412 Gregory Avenue, Weehawken, N. J. 07087 II X OCTOFOIL ASSOCIATE EDITORS Walter O'Keeffe & Daniel Quinn ~ For many years, ArtSchmidt has been an indefatigable re­ NATIONAL OFFICERS n PAUL KELLER, President, 139 Pinewood Drive, Columbus. Ohio porter for the Octofoil. Almost ~ FRANCIS MAHER, 1st Vice President. 14 Davenport St.. Worcester, Mass II every issue that went to pres?, FRANKOZART. 2nd Vice President, 2241 S. Marshall Blvd.. Chicago, III. ~n contained a lengthy article writ­ WILLIAM 'MEADOWS, 3rd Vice President, 19367 Dale, Detroit. Michigan HARAlSON DAYSH. Judge Advocate, 4303 Carriage Court, ten by Art. These timely and Rock Creek Highlands, Kensington, Md. U informative reports on the ac­ ~ DANIEL QUINN, Secretary. 412 Gregory Ave.. Weehawken. N. J. (201·866·8195) tivities of the New York Chap­ THOMAS BOYLE, T~~~~~r'03:~~I~:~~.OS:;erville,Mass. 02144 ~ ter were widely read by the 1968- 1970- members of the Association. Charles Koskie, Schiller Park, 111. Peter Cusack, 41 Oriole St., West Roxbury, In the past few months, Art Paul Keller, Columbus, Ohio Mass. ~ Anthony Varone, Kings Park, L.l., N. Y. Richard Pestel, 1422 Dyer Rd., Grove City, has become strangely silent, Robert Rumenapp, 28017 Hughes St., Ohio and we thought that he had St. Clair Shores, Mich. John Rizzo, 29 Louisiana St., Long Beach, ~ laid his pen aside and had Brig, Gen. Edwin Randle (Ret.) 503 N. Y. Althea Rd., Clearwater, Fla. Richard Wilson, 530 E. Elm St., Woodbury, taken a sabbatical leave. How­ 1969- N. J. ever, we have discovered that ~ John Boden, Box 58, Chester, Pa. Board Member Emeritus his silence was not voluntary Herbert Olsen, Randolph, Mass. Maj, Gen. Louis A. Craig iRetired) ~ Ralph Witzkin, Hillside... N. J. Honorary Chaplain Emeritus but had been forced upon him Charles Tingley, Silver-Springs, Md. Father Ed Connors Worcester Mass by personal obligations at home. ~ W~h:::;:::' ::::::~:nP:fk:h:i:;nth ~ His uncle had been taken ill CHANGE OF COMMAND - Ralph Wltzkin, retiring President Infant,y Division A=ciation. Single copy p"ce and reqUired frequent visits of the New York Chapter, hands over the gavel to his successor is 25 cents per issue or by mail $1.50 per year payable in advance when dues are paid to the Doctor's office, Art was Dues are $4.00 per year with $1.50 of the $4.00 earmarked for six issues of The Octofoil. Harry Orenstein. George Apar, Installing Officer, looks on: Members should notify the Nati(;mal Secretary, Daniel Quinn, 412 Gregory Ave., Weehaw· pressed into service as a chauf­ ~ ken, N. J., of any change in address. fer, and now as we go to press Published six times yearly, July"August, September-October, November·December, Jan· ~ Art informs us that his mother uary-February, March-April. May-June by and for the members of the Ninth Infantry Oi· ~ Advisor visi~n Asso.ciation. News items, feature stories, photographs and art material from mem- is in the hospital awaiting sur­ John Thornton bers will be appreciated. Every effort will be made to return photographs and art work in gery. good. cond~tion. Due to these unfortunate oc­ ~ An extract from the certificate of incorporation of the 9th Infantry Division Associa- tion reads: "This Association is formed by the officers and men of the 9th Infantry Oivi- ~ currences, Art has been unable Sends Regards to R. O. K. sian in order to perpetuate the memory of our fallen comrades, to preserve the esprit de to pursue his regular activities. corps of the division, to assist in promoting an everlasting world peace exclusively of However, he has promised that means of educational activities and to serve as an information bureau to former members Dear Dan: In a letter dated Nov. 6, ~ of the 9th Infantry Division." when things return to normal Do hope this card finds you in 1967, Lt. Col. Al Baker, a Copy must be received on or before the 10th of each month to guarantee publication he will get back into harness on the 20th. Photographs mu~t be received on or before the 5th day of publication ~ former member of the Ninth and resume his reports on the good health. Received the Sept.­ month. ~ . Oct. Octofoil several days ago, Division, writes that he has n Second-Cl,,<.;:, postage paid at Union City, N. J. ')7087 doings of the New York Chap­ U ter. and sure was very sorryto hear ten more months to serve in about our wonderful friend Paul Korea before returning state­ fl:OLU:~::'", ~M NU~;::'Jl During January and February Plunkett passing away. He sure side. Al writes that he is act­ :;.-F:: winter clamped its freezing grip will be missed by all. I was ing as Ordnance Advisor to on New York City, butlcywinds very happy to have known him two ROK Corps, one of which and low temperatures failed to for a few weeks when I was as­ is located along the DMZ. Al keep the New Yorkers away signed to the 60th Reg., shortly said that the work is interesting irom their monthly meetings. after the 9th landed in France. .and helps to make the time pass 26th Field Message Center They turned up at the 69th He was always happy to be of swiftly. In view of the recent Reg. Armory in large num­ Gentlemen: Paul Griffin is planning to help to everyone, but such is developments inKorea, we sus­ bers and proceeded to make Happy New Year. make this his last year of serv­ life, may his rest in PEACE. pect that Al is a busy man right plans for the coming year. Yes, may the year 1968 bE ice. Paul, now a Lt. Col., is Glad to know that you and now. stationed at Ft. Meade. Harry Orenstein, the new Walter O'Keefe are taking over His two sons are following in a happy and prosperous one for President, presided over the the men of the Ninth Infantry A great reunion was held in his work, and it will live up to their father's footsteps. His Houston two months ago. Harold meetings and quickly proved Paul's standards. Sure hope eldest son, Bob, is taking basic Division Association and their that he will keep things moving families. May the year 1968 Wallace and Elbert Turner wan­ this affair in -Viet Nam comes at Ft. Jackson, S. C. and will dered out of the hills of Ten­ during 1968. He selected dates to an early end, so all our men later go on to W. O. Flight be a happy and victorious one for the Memorial Service, pic- for the men who wear the OCTO­ nessee back in 1939 and found can come home. Training; his other son, Tad, FOIL in far off lands. their way to tent city at Bragg. nic, and Fall dance, and also Sincerely, is a Junior at Penn Military Old man winter is true to There they met for the first appointed committees for all John Thornton College. Meanwhile, Mrs. form at this time of the year time. Both were assigned to these events. Co. D 60th Inf. Baker is at home in Weymouth, Mass. husily writing to her in New England. We have snow, Service 26FA in the 9th Div. Several members proposed 1320 N. Dearborn st. about one foot of it. Does any­ area at Bragg. Some five years that the Chapter charter a bus Chicago, III 60610 men-folk who are scattered all over the globe. AI's tour ofduty one want some? We did not get later, both were discharged and for the trip to Detroit. Harry down to the 13 degrees below went their separate ways. El­ agreed to give this proposal *** in Korea will prevent him from that Green Bay had, but we bert got lonesome for the good wide publicity and promised attending the 1968 Reunion; have been pretty close to it life so reenlisted about the time that, if enough members are PAY YOUR 1968 however, he has promised to during the first three days of of the Berlin Air Lift. Nowboth interested, the Chapter would attend the 1969 Reunion. the month. So, if you are a are in Texas but about 500 miles undertake this endeavor. DUES NOW!!!! skier or skater, come to New apart. Elbert, now a civilian, One familiar face was *** England now. found the time to visit Harold missing from the meetings. The men in blue of the United in Houston. What a reunion! To John Rizzo, an Old Reliable States Postal Service again add to the merriment was Bur­ of the New York Chapter, was NINTH INFANTRY DMSION ASS'N. made many trips to 95 Wash­ nal Lareau, also of Service hospitalized and unable to be NIEMBERSffiP APPLICAnON ington Ave. with Christmas 26FA, and now of Houston. On present. We understand that Greetings from men of Serv­ his way back to the hills for a John is now resting at home Dan Quinn, Natl. Secretary, 9th Infantry Division AS8n. ice Battery 26FA and from vacation this past summer, but will have to take it easy 412 Gregory Ave., Weehawken, N.J. 07087 ' other units of this great divi­ Harold Wallace stopped in for a few months. Enclo~("d pl("a~e find 1968 dues fo'!': sion. Thank you, very much. Memphis to see Seymour. That At the January and Febru­ Everett Grigsby added a note visit meant much to Travis. ary meetings, all Committee to say that he is now in the Mrs. Harold Huber and Mrs. Chairmen reported consider­ Serial No. _ used car business. So, If any George Wilkinson continued the able progress in their activi­ of you are out in Seward, Ne­ custom starte(j1:J-y their hus­ ties, so it seems as if the Street Addre88 braska and need a car, why bands many years ago. New York Chapter is set for another successful year. not stop in to see Everett of Ted Schmidt, John Clouser, Citv ____ Zone State _ 26FA. Bob Mason, Dick Rogers, Ches Paul Firbush, Bill Bongior':' Mischler and Ernie Spear from *** I was a memher of: no, Mac Hurn, Roy Cortese, Hdqtrs. 26FA also remembered Bill Andrews, Ed Kral, Anthony the McKenzie family. Members Ponticello, Earl Landon, Elbert Walter O'Keefe, Tom Boyle, Battery_ ; Company_ _; Regiment 9th Div. Turner, Charlie Zablow, Carl Bob Rumenapp and Carl Ward Lucas, Pergi, Joe Albanese, are members of our great As­ I wi8h to 8ign up for the foUowing: Jim Daniels, Peter Greco, Clem sociation who took time out dur­ Out ing a busy time of the year to Regular Member, per year LeBlanc, Jerry Langer, John ------. 4.00 0 Brazil, Red Truscello, Dick wish us a Merry Christmas. Donation Memorial SchollU"llhip Fund _ o Malone, Cecil Williamson, Arn­ During the long winter nights West old Leach, Harold Wallace, start a letter writing campaign Three-}'ear Member ______'11.00 0 to members of the old gang. Get Elmer Roscoe, John Murray, LIFE MEMBERSHIP _ _ .50.00 0 Paul Griffin, Robert Porter, them to Detroit for our 1968 Lew Ortlcari, Ike Blitzstein Convention. Octofoil Automobile License Diec • .50 0 We don't havl' a Cklpt"r in and Joe Bolow are a few more Sincerely yours, Joe McKenzie tlJ(' Pacific Northc Wpst, but we Decal8 25c; (5) five for ------• 1.00 0 of the boys who wished the Mc­ do have many faithful members Kenzie family a Merry Christ­ 95 Washington Av. "Eight Star. to Victory" , Waltham, Mass. out that way. Franklin Gunter, 2.00 0 mas. L Co. 47th, lives in Tacoma, (Pictorial Hi8tOry of 9th Division in action.) Jim Boyle asked about Travis 02154 Washington; recently we re­ Ladie8' Auxiliary Member • 1.50 0 Seymour. If anyone can spare a ceived his dues and a nice note minute and six cents (new post­ from his wife, Florence. An­ Comhat Route Map______• .50 0 age rate), I wish that you would other resident of that beautiful send a card or note to Travis 60th Infantry History ---- • .50 0 *** part of the country is Al Lee, Seymour, 3422 Skyway Drive, 2nd Bn., 47th. Al makes his Coat Lapel Octofoil Pin ------• 1.25 0 Memphis, Tenn. 38127. Travis Remember home in Salprn, Oregon. His was with Service Battery 26FA wife, Grac,', spnt ill AI's dues .:. .:. .:. all of the way from Ft. Braggto The Dates and told II.~ that tlll'y had heard Please ghe credit to the following Chapter: Pfaffenhoffen. from Charli,' Pollard, another Phill~-.DelawareVaUey Greater New York Two weeks after he spent a 47th man allil a rrielld or AI'~. 0 0 wondertul weekend in Wor­ Remember the dates We hop" thai 11\11' mprnbers on Illinois D Washinston, D.C. 0 cester, Arnold Leach entered the Pacific Coasi ('IIl1tinUt' to the hospital for a hernia opera­ for the • :1 :\ew England 0 Michigan 0 1968 Reunioll keep ill tOllcl1 lid k,'"p lIsposlt·d tion. He is now on the road to on the hap!H'ltilll.;S IIllt that '''IV. recovery. Too bad he has to July 18,19,20. Ohio 0 Fayetteville-Fort Bragg, N.C. 0 miss the good skiing up st. Al­ bans way. * * * Page 3 THE OCTOFOIL

CHAPTE R 2 (Continued) by WILLIAM M. KREYE Basic Training and Garrison ing and digging places. There When I was nearing twenty, had been a few cases of snake a friend of mine, FRANK GAL­ The following morning we bites but this was at a small LUCCI, was talked into and started on a three day ma­ degree. challenged to play a local so­ neuver of troops by the staff, There were other mishaps. cial dub, "The smiling Boys," and it was ended about four­ On one maneuver in the field, soft ball although FRANK wasn't teen miles from our barracks. "c" Company's kitchen turned associated with any team. I It was horrible to get lost on out spoiled food and the entire had played soft ball from time hikes or patrols because the company had ptomaine poison­ to time such as at Public School wanderer at Fort Bragg might ing. There were a few acci­ #10 and on Sunday picnics. I drift into an artillery firing dents caused by overturned ve­ had gained respect and recog­ range. This post was the larg­ hicles. The personnel carriers nition throughout the neighbor­ est artillery post in the United were overloaded to simulate hood from my efforts in punch­ states and there was lots of combat conditions. At nightthe ball and in soft ball as being a territory to roam around in, trucks and other vehicles did good hitter. FRANK got to­ ANTI-TANK CO., 39th Infantry puts on a firing demonstration about t....ty-five square miles not use their headlights and gether his brother DOC, PORKY for Generaol stout, visiting foreign Officer. (March, 1942, Fort of it. But we didn't get lost, some of them ran into a ditch TARTAS, SKRUB (who would Bragg, N. C.) we had to hike those miles off the road. The vehicles cap­ become my brother-in-law in The difference was a slower ~agles, back to our barracks and then sized with their personnel of a few years and whose real and for the PhU1i"delphia pitch with even slower vari­ get ready for the usual inspec­ between forty-five and fifty­ name was JOHN J. SKROBIN­ who was a member of "c" ations of speedor faster pitches tion the next morning. Right, two men fully equipped with SKI) and me to play against this Company, played on our on the following succession of it was Friday evening once rifles and equipment. Soldiers team. We picked up four or baseball team. Lt. Colonel again. five teenagers to fill in with us. throws. WILLIAM R. SCHMIDT, com­ were injured or killed by the Thereby, I became a thrower Many things were learned impact of other bodies, rifles SKRUB, DOC and I put on manding the 39th Infantry Reg­ by the privates on the maneu­ such an exhibition in our three of a fast breaking curve and of iment, endorsed the game and and equipment. various slower "finger ball" vers and in garrison, such as However, although the inci­ straight wins over .,The Smil­ he watched many of them to his policing up match sticks, ing Boys" that we played for curves. The batters would enjoyment. Although I didn't dents I reveal make it seem either hit the ball on the ground cigarette butts and paper. everything was bad, there were them by request until the Se­ play in too many games, the Sometimes this was done at lective Service Act broke up the or they would pop it softly into games I did participate in, my more good things than the bad. the air. Very seldom did they night if flashlights were avail­ There was plenty of entertain­ team. I played short stop which "finger ball" was very suc­ able or the moonlight was shin­ was my natural position in this strike out or did they get the cessful. JOE GRAVINO re­ ment within the post grounds at good wood of the bat on the ball ing. They received special in­ the service clUbs, theatres and game of softball. I was not a marked on a few occasions, structions of how to dispose of professional nor did I show any to hit it very hard. "BILL, you throw up a water­ elsewhere. The most important One morning while I was on cigarette butts after smoking. thing was, although it was still promise of making ball playing melon and they can't hit it." To remove the tobacco from a career. I just loved to play the mound as usual, the activi­ I was selected for the 39th peace time as far as the United ties were promptly interrupted the rice paper covering and to States was concerned, this was the game. Regimental Team but I had to roll the paper into a tiny ball, At Fort Bragg, I played soft by the manager of the team, Lt. leave the team for a special the basis for the build up of a BOLIN. It seemed the regulars was the method prescribed. mighty fighting machine. ball on the 1st Battalion Detach­ map making assignment for the For a short time, Wednes­ ment team. However, because who were mostly professionals replacement of Lt. Colonel day afternoons were devoted ROBERT F. WALLEY played were in a batting slump. The SCHMIDT, Colonel CAFFEE. to recreation on the regimental *** short and there were no takers manager, who didn't know me The map was for the West Point parade field where soft ball for third, I played trJrd base. except from seeing me on the cadets to follow and trace the was the chief activity. One CHAPTER 3 I got stuck with third in every practice mound a few times progress of a live ammunition night during the week was de­ game I played in the Army. when he was there, ordered me firing problem. I made the voted to a night problem. It Baseball and Soft ball The detachment had a few to pitch with everything I had. drawings and HARRY G. was on a night problem that I good soft ball players at this JOE GRAVINO, the first string PAVLUCK, master of the bow knocked over a pup tent and time such as GEORGE E. SHEE­ catcher from "B" Company and arrow, did a magnificent woke up Captain ROBERT J. HAN, FUDIE P. ZULLO and and who was big league material finish of it with his painting. WATSON, the commanding of­ WALLEY but the best teams if I ever recognized it, put In basketball such men like ficer of "D" Company who fo' yoo to ,pp,,,i­ in the 1st Battalion were "B" on his catching eqUipment and TAFF, CROWLEY, FERRONE, 1",,,ate more fully the coming sports he came out to the mound. never knew what hit him. If and "c" Companies. "c" LARKIN, BARDWELL, LAM­ the night problem s exceeded events, I have to present to you Company was good enough to .JOE was a fine hitter and he BERTI, PERTRUKA, CUM­ past 0200 hours, we would be a short background of my sports beat the professional team of had a good arm, also looked MINGS, FLANAGAN and HOP­ granted the morning off from career before I entered the Raleigh 6 to 5. great behind the plate. It was KINS starred for the 39th in the usual routine. service. I must admit that I The 1st Battalion Baseball his first experience to catch their second anniversary of Sunday morning we had to played some kind of ball since Team had been organized some­ me and he wanted to have a few sport activities. march over to the Colonel's I was about eight years of age. time before I got the notion signals so he would know what Sergeant HENRY HOUVIG of quarters at 0800 hours to po­ I started playing a game called to practice with it. I had no was coming. In my surprise, Company "F" defeated OSSIE lice up the grounds. At the punch-ball. It was a game ipitcher, first base, team held its practice sessions. knuckler, and four for a pitch­ boxing star, headed the team tween files and while the in­ t.hird base and two outfielders Each day I picked up the base­ out. into the Carolina State Golden specting officer came through and, optional, a catcher. The ball and I trotted to the pitcher's After the first man entered Glove tournament. They came the ranks and looked at the pitcher served the ball on one mound. I always threw to the the batter's box and he was a out victorious featuring two cleanliness of the rifles ~nd the bounce to a batter who in turn second-string catCher, right hand hitter, GRAVIN 0 wins for Company "K's" ED­ men, the first sergealrt fol­ waited for the pitch to his lik­ CHARLES I. JOANS, and Ithrew flashed two fingers which called DIE TANSEY. The 39th boxing lowed with his little black book. ing. The batter hit the ball m:lstly to the batters just to get for the curve. I took my wind­ team defeated the 60th boxing If a soldier failed to pass the with his bare fist. This game the ball over the plate. up and I threw my fast break­ team for the division champion- inspection, he was certainfor at was very similar to a game My control improved im­ ing curve. The batter instead ship. Company "H," 39th won least two weeks of kitchen po­ that followed shortly later m~nsely as I threw about two of pulling back, stooped over. the boxing trophy. lice or other extra duties. called "stick-ball" where the hours each day which proves The ball curved sharply and it Lt. M.K. RATTEREE, star Problems became more se­ batter used a broom stick han- that practice makes perfect. hit the batter on the head. After of basketball, football andbase­ vere as every week there was dle to hit the ball. I started to analyze myself as Do little grumbling, rubbing and ball for Presbyterian College a three day maneuver, then I played third base on a far as pitching was concerned. a few unmentionable words; the took over the basketball they increased to' five days. punch-ball team called the My fast ball was not fast enough batter was ready to try agtUn. schedule of the 39th. Although On Monday mornings about 0400 "Trojans." This was an ex;­ as it did not have that hop as The catcher flashed the same "B" Company won the most hours, the problems would start ceptionally good team and it baseball players refer to a signal and I threw the same games, Company "F" won the and on Friday evenings they was about the best in western fast ball that the batters swing pitch. Who said that lightning playoff and the title between would end. The soldiers were Brooklyn. Some of my asso­ at and they miss. I had a very didn't strike twice in the same "B," "c" and liE" Companies. tired at their return but still ciates were FRAN BERTINI, effective sharp curve which place? Well, the ball did-curve Basketball featured JACK FER­ they had to prepare for the JOHN NEGRI, RICHARD CAL­ could perhaps get me by as the batter again stooped RONE of Company "C," high Saturday morning, the disci­ LAN, JOE TOTINO, FRANK for about three or four innings. over and again he was hit on scorer with 210 points and pline prevailed. FollowingSat­ SANTORO, WILLIE MILAZZO, Pitching my curve, I had to grip the head by the pitched ball. speedy BOBBY RYAN of the urday morning, the soldiers had JOE ERIGO, FRANK MAGNA­ the ball very hard and after After the batter picked him­ Band with 209 points. Lt. a day and a half of free time VITA, the LOTITO brothers, a while the ball would rip the self up off the ground, he BOLIN, all around atheletic star to rest up for the following the LEMBO's, RED ROGUS, skin off of my knuckles. I charged out after me raVing from Davidson College and week's maneuver providing he FRANK CONNORS, JOHN would then loosen my grip and mad with the bat in his hand. former football coach, managed had been a good boy and not WALSH, the O'NEIL's, the the curve would lose its effec­ The catcher grabbed him from the 39th baseballers. on guard duty. HICKEY's, who accompanied tiveness. behind as a tackler brings down Just one more highlight about Jiggers, a very small red me on this type of game plus With the practice 1was getting a ball carrier in a football baseball, one day there was a boring pest, were more annoy­ many others. on the mound and the additional game. Everyone ran out on mix up in orders. I was sent ing to the field o>uluier than In my teens I played on an sideline throwing to JOANS, I the diamond including the on a detail instead of being ticks or any other pests were. amateur baseball team called developed a new pitch. I called lieutenant. The officer started allowed to arrive at the base­ ~()(lll It was weeks of itching and the "Wings." This was also it the "finger ball." It took to eat me Gut but GhA .1NO ball field for practice. When scratching before the pests a very good team and I had quite a bit of mastering before stopped him with this remark, the manager noticed that! didn't stopped digging under one's played occastionally on other I could develop it and then con­ "Someone ought to show that appear, later I was summoned skin. The medics advised the teams. I pitched and I played trol it. My "finger ball" was man how to bat. Those two to report to him. When he m~n to apply small pieces of first base but I did little of thrown similar to a curve for a pitches were over the center learned of what happened, he adhesive tape over the bites. either on this team as the home­ right hand thrower except the of the plate for perfect strikes ordered me to go to sleep in WILBUR V. HOVEY had a very run hitter was HARRY ball was held between the thumb, if the batter didn't get his head the recreation hall. It was good relieving remedy and that McKICKA, the first baseman, index and next fingers. The in the way." Frum that moment a great pleasure and a mar­ was to apply horse liniment and some of the best pitchers baseball was held loosely near on I was a member of the 1st velous opportunity to play on to the affected area. The horse around were VINNO and the finger tips. While the arm Battalion Baseball Team as if the 39th Baseball Team. liniment made the skin of the McCOY. My weakness was my was in motion, the fingers were this incident had anything to do twisted as well as th(' snap of individual burn for a few hitting but nevertheless I be­ with it. the wrist, just as the ball was WALLlCY playt'd shortstop seconds but the jiggers came the regular center fielder (ContinuPd nert fXJI!f!) and BlCN KISH, former pro­ couldn't stand it either and they because I could go and get released frum the hand. The result was a slow breaking fessional football star who be~n popping out of their hid- those fly balls. curve somethillg like a~l id('r. played for the Brooklyn Dodgers Page ....4 ~ T.:_:...H.:_..=.E___.:O:._..:C T a F a IL would pass. After the 11rst of he knew for sure if the O. D. "ri' Company. Red for 1st, the year, 1942, the division stopped him, the O. D. would ask White for 2nd, Blue for. 3rd would be attached to the Am-­ him all kinds of questions. So, Battalion, Notorious for the 9th phibious corps, Atlantic Fleet. out of the O. D.'s sight, he ran Infantry Division and similar Many feet will get wet and the like blazes around the buildings code names for the officers and Army will introduce a new anti­ and he came up behind the O. D. other units. It was part of the dote which will be "Sea-sick a few yards away unnoticed. He security used in message send­ tablets.'. was sure that the O. D. had ing and communications. noticed him as he just made One day while I ran the ob­ his turn at the other end of the stacle course with mygas mask CHAPTER 5 barrack and the O. D. didn't on, I tripped over the first expect the sentry to be behind hurdle and I fell and smashed Guard Duty and Other him. He thought he saw the through the remainingfour hur­ Incidents O. D. jump from surprise when dles. As I lay there too shocked he hollered, "Halt, who goes to move, the officer in charge The outfit went back to living there?" Passwords were ex­ ran to me. He asked,"Is the gas in tents for a couple of weeks at changed but no questions were mask damaged?" He h3.d no con­ a place called Mott Lake. This asked about special or general cern for my welfare what­ was similar to the ordeal that orders. soever. the National Guard endures Prisoners were double timed I was planning to be married when they go away to camp in to do certain details around the to that wonderful girl who lived the summertime. There was the area as punishment, but the sen­ across the street from my home actual firing of military try had to double time, also, to in good old Brooklyn. I wantedto weapons to familiarize us with keep up with the prisoners as get a furlough and we ha\i none other weapons in the infantry he carried his rifle, ammo and since I entered the service. The Breaking Camp - Rock Hill, N. C. - October, 1941 such as mortars, machine guns, other equipment. I wondered only leaves granted were three rifle grenades, handgrenades, sometimes who was actually day passes and those special flame throwers, demolitions passes some of us got at Christ­ Brigadier General RENE E. The Carolina maneuvers was being punished? It was said and so forth. Here we lived in mas. I had read the procedure D. HOYLE replaced Major Gen­ featured, as far as the Intelli­ that if a prisoner escaped the a tent city to enjoy more of the a private must go through which eral JACOB L. DEVERS as gence Section was concerned, guard had to serve out the southern sunshine, the scrub was to get permission from the commander of the 9th Infantry by JOHN LIHACH and yours prisoner's sentence. Division. Shortly later, the out­ pines and the powdered sand JOHN J. McGUIGAN and first sergeant to see the com­ truly on two different occasions, that made Fort Braggunforget­ fit entered the Carolina ma­ by the rescue of lost night PAUL C. TAYLOR had joined pany commander. I was denied table. this privilege and my fiancee neuvers which lasted for about patrols led by the regimental the Intelligence Section for a About the only outstanding wrote the commander a letter ten weeks around the vicinity S-2 non-corns. Also by the aban­ short time. McGUIGAN trans­ of Rock HUl, Chester and Lan­ incidents I remember about ferred to the paratroopers, requesting a leave of absence donment of a group of Intelli­ Mott Lake were these. A mor­ caster, South Carolina and near gence boys along the Pee Dee reason more money, and TAY­ for the groom to be. Rockingham, Hamlet and Mon­ tar section demonstrated the LOR went to our motor pool. To complicate matters more, River who existed for ten days firing of an old type mortar roe, North Carolina. without government food rations MARTIN KRASOVETZ, STAN­ we were issued the new Girand We ate supper usually after shell which was coal black and LEY CABAN, WILLIAM H. M1 rifles and we had to zero before they were missed at the about the size and the shape of dark and we couldn't smoke nor command post. They were fed SOLLIDAY and HYMAN CE P­ them in on the rifle range. It have lights of any type when we a mason's red brick. They float­ POS joined the section and was the first sergeant's by a civilian couple who brought ed a small raft with a flag on a were in the field. It would be them sandwiches, coffee and things were beginning to shape brilliant idea to grant seven day the first maneuver on which staff upon the lake and they up. furloughs which were coming up doughnuts. The referees who lit fired these antique mortars at "C" rations would be used ex­ flower pots along the roads to shortly according to the firing elusively. The officers had their this target without any success. scores. This meant that the indicate that artillery fire was One night there was a dem­ *** dinner table set with plates, landing in a particular area soldiers with the highest scores table cloth, and their orderlies onstration of the thirty caliber would go first. Ifyou remember were asked a few questions. water-cooled machine gun. Ev­ served their food. They lit can­ One of the big questions was, the first time we fired for the dles upon the table which looked ery fifth bullet that left the "Is that artillery fire friendly machine gun was a tracer so that like a big birthday party. While or enemy?" If it was friendly, the meal was in full swing, an the spectators could follow the then there was nothing to worry shooting. After one burst from enemy plane flew over surpris­ about. Finally, the maneuvers ingly and it dropped a simulated the weapon, the woods were ended November 28th, 1941,and set afire and everyone was bomb, a flour sack, right in the some of the outfits hadn't yet center of the table. sent out to fight the forest fire. reached their barracks when I'll never forget the chlorine CHARLIE WARNECAK, very December 7th and the real war talkative and a great guy to know water bags which were erected had started with the Japanese at the end of the company who hailed from Bound Brook, sneak attack on Pearl Harbor. New Jersey and who would be­ streets. The liquid tasted like As a tribute to the civilians medicine. come the assistant supply non­ of North Carolina and of South Heturning to the Ninth In­ com in the 1st Battalion Head­ Carolina, in 1941, the selectees, fantry Division area, after our quarters, heated a can of meat who were mostlyfrom the states and beans without puncturing a vacation at Mott Lake, we found of New Jersey, New York and that guard duty was considered hole in the can before heating Pennsylvania, joined the 9thIn­ and the can exploded. There a privilege for every soldier fantry Division, there seemedto who was appointed to serve on were beans on helmets, on be a resentment against these shirts and trousers, and beans it. A company usually had this Yanks, by the small minority privilege for a twenty-four hour on everything. I had been at­ of business people in the town tacked by a swarm of bees. period when it was relieved of Fayetteville. Little did we by another unit. There were However, mybites did not swell. realize that the "rebel" flag I reported to the aid station enough men assigned from a still flew over the South. But, company to chase prisoners with the bee bites all over my we'll have to remember that this hands, wrists and face. Before (G. I.'s who had goofed some­ was chiefly due to the fact that how) and to handle three re­ I had a chance to explain what FayetteVille was the nearest had happened to me, the medics liefs of the guard post posi­ ARMY DA Y, 1942 - Troop landing on enemy shore. Demonstra- diagnosed my case to be jigger outlet for the soldier to go to. tions. Each company's guard tion put on for civilians. (Fort Bragg, N. C.) bites. Most government issued(G.I.'s) performed in a formation sim­ CHAPTER 6 On one occasion we had about went there for a little relaxa­ ilar to a rifle inspection called fifty prisoners of all ranks from tion. Others, who had more of the "Changing of the Guard." American Defense record with the Springfields, the rank of captain down. I was the If green stuff" to spend, Men from the company finish­ At the sound of war, the en­ after MANSON the next in or­ appointed to take them back to traveled beyond Fayetteville. ing their guard duty honored the tire outfit was alerted by 2300 der were the regular Army men. our regimental stockade with Perhaps, the soldiers drank too newly arrived members of the hours on December 7th, 1941 Well, after the scores were little RALPH ALESSI to take up much or they didn't behave on relieving guard. to move out. We all expected counted this time, NICK GIR­ the rear guard. I aligned the many an occasion, such as at All guards had to memorize the move to be towards the ARDI, who was the bugler, prisoners in a column of twos the Town Pump. their "General Orders" and Pacific area. We didn't get to tailor, barber and all around with the highest ranking men On the other hand, the hos­ also had to know the "Special sleep that night as we had to necessary man in the detach­ at the head of the column. I pitality of the Carolinians was Orders" for the particular post pack and be ready to move ment, had the highest score. started them off and I let them more than generous, as I will they were to roam as a sentinel. secretly by morning. we did Then came STANLEY CABAN set their own pace and it was vouch for out of my visits to There was a certain soldier who move but we convoyed to and I, then LESTER L. NEAL a good fast one. How RALPH Raleigh and Rock Hill. Even on always received Post Number 1 Raleigh, North carolina, the the highest scorer for the reg­ ever kept up to us, I'll never the Carolina maneuvers, the which was a walking sentinel capital of the state. All utilities ulars. know. I made no indication to people of North and of South post. He had to walk this post were guarded by the Army and Well, anyway, the issuance of stop for a break but after about Carolina went out of their way in a counter clockwise encircle­ the 1st Battalion Command Post the furloughs were made out ninety minutes of practically to serve us coffee, doughnuts ment of the guard house bar­ was stationed at the State Fair and in the confusion there was a running, the captain conceded and sandwiches many miles rack and the prisoners' stock­ Grounds just outside the city week's difference in the dates of and he asked for permission to away from their homes. They ade. The post had to be walked limits. There was guard duty my furlough and the wedding halt for a rest. This request also invited many of us to their in a military manner at right and more guard duty while we plans. To correct the situation was granted and after resting homes for a friendly visit which shoulder arms and at a pace at sweated out Christmas fur­ I had to change furloughs with awhile, we resumed our hike. usually included a home cooked attention. loughs. Some of us were fortu­ STANLEY CABAN but inthe end When we reached a town, we meal. All personnel within sight of nate to get home for a few days, everything worked out to per­ heard rumors that the phase of The outfit trained intensively the guard had to be challenged others were not as fortunate. fection. the problem had ended. The to harden the men. ThUS, the and recognized. The sentry was I had been assigned to guard During the spring and sum­ prisoners wanted to go on their Ninth became the show division on post for two hours and off the main gate at the State Fair mer of 1942, the Ninth changed way but I couldn't permit that of the states. The outfit trained post for four hours on reserve Grounds with orders not to let greatly. It learned a new type as I had orders to take them in all aspects of the Army in­ to chase prisoners and be on anyone into the grounds unless of warfare sending unit after to the regimental stockade, the cluding marine training. The reserve in case of unusual the soldier or individual had an unit aboard transports in the whereabouts I had no idea. One soldiers became "killers" and emergencies. authorized pass. When the Gov­ Chesapeake Bay to stage am­ of our majors appeared and he this became apparent on vari­ One night this sentry was ernor of North Carolina tried to phibious attacks on Sowmon's advised that I telephone reg­ ous occasions. Twice" A" and walking Post Number 1 and the enter, I wouldn't allow him en­ Island. I was promoted to cor­ iment for alternate instruc­ "B" Companies of the 39th In­ streets were lit up by the lights trance. Someone forgot to issue poral and LT. TERRELL re­ tions. I did and the prisoners fantry Regiment beat up each at each end on the barracks him a pass or get me special placed LT. REEVES as S-2. were freed to return to their other in fist fights with no holds which made visibility very good orders to allow him through. There had been many changes units. However, they- wanted barred. 1st Battalion Headquar­ on a clear night and this was a The next moment I was relieved as the men from the 9th were transportation back but I in­ ters Detachment had two of its very clear night. A very embar­ of my post. sent out on cadrees to form dicated their means of travel men kniVf!." d ~a "C" Company rassing incident occurred as Eventually, the civilian home other divisions. by pointing to their feet. By beer padty. e Ninth trained he made a left turn at the end guard was formed and the 9th the time these maneuvers would for Jap3jlese combat. Many a of the guard house. He just Infantry Division was finished be over, the enemy would know soldier did a)at of griping and happened to see out of the cor­ of tllis defensive security. The (continued next issue) that they had faced a cruel, usually !'fe hac!j~ood reason to do ner of his eye the Officer of the outfit returned to its barracks hardened, disciplined bunch of so. ' Day approaching about a bar­ at Fort Bragg. All units and infantrymen getting to be known The personnel of the outfits rack length away. After he made staff personnel had code names throughout the easter'l ~2..iJuard would ctIange beyond recogni­ his next turn as the officer was suell as Abel for" A," Baker for by all their comrades in arms. tion before IDe following year approaching towards his back, ·'n." Charlie for "C," Dog for Page 5 THE 0 C T 0 F .-::0:...... :...'.:::,L _

FRANK LOVELL Chap~ains on Engineer Made Jim Bates is REMEMBERS Taps Sounded It is our sad duty to report Enclosed is my 1968 dues, Sick Call Heard From Vice-President the demise of the follOwing plus a little something for the Recently, we heard from two The 15th Engineers were al­ The follOWing letter was re­ Old Reliables: Scholarship Fund. Wish it could former Ninth Division Chap­ ways famous for their know­ ceived from the wife of Jim Raymond Dunn, of 742 Gran­ be more, but right now I have lains and were sorry to learn how and tenacity. Today, these Bates, now Sgt. Major serving ville Road, Newark, Ohio _ three out of myfive g;ping to col.. that they both had been ill. qualities are highly valued by in Viet Nam. Jim was in F Co. formerly with the 39th Infan­ lege. Father Kines paid his 1968 industry~ and wnen a company 39th Inf. and is now with the try. Sorry to hear about the death dues and reported that eye cat­ finds a man with these 43 Medical Group, APO 96240 Thomas F. Collins, of 55 Win- of Paul Plunkett, although f did aracts kept him away from the attributes, they move him to San Francisco, California. not know him personally. I'm Memorial Service and are also shaw Road, Swampscott, Mass.­ the top. 10 January 1968 sure, however, the Octofoil, like preventing him from teaching formerly with Hq. & Hqs. Bty, A. J. Forrest, who served Dear Dan: "Old Glory," will be scooped up this semester. The Rev. Propst . 34th F .A. with the 15th Engineers, was Please find the enclosed by willing hands and be carried writes that he is still under the Harry A. Stewart, 4402, 28th recently promoted to Vice­ check for Jim's dues for 3 on to new heights. Still haven't doctor's care as the result of a Street, Mount Rainier, Md.­ President by the Crucible Steel years. got over the shock of Cha~Ue heart attack he suffered last formerly with M Co. 47th In­ Co. The following excerpts were Jim is still in service and Fabre's death and also just re­ year. fantry. taken from a Pittsburgh paper: since June has been in Viet Nam. cently Tom Collins of the 34th We hope that the good Chap­ .Tames J. Sullivan, of 2217 "Crucible Steel Co. has an-: He is serving with the 43rd F .A. Bn., at whose funeral mas$ lains make speedy recoveries Donning, Westchester, Illinois nounced the appointment of A. T. Medical Group and said he would in Swampscott, Mass., I met and soon return to active duty. - formerly with the A Bty. Father Conners. Forrest to the new position of rather be with an Infantry Di­ 26th F.A. vision. He served in Korea with I read a few books last year Vice President Engineering for Joseph B. Pacer, 4318 S. the 3rd Infantry and, as you that might interest some of the * * * its Midland Division. Forrest Trumbull Avenue, Chicago, Il­ ex-9th men. One is the book on Seeks 47th holds two degrees from know, with the "Fighting linois the French Foreign Legion by Carnegie - Mellon University Ninth." So it is easy to un­ Russel Wych, of 633 John Alfred Perrott - White. It is (Carnegie Institute of Technol­ derstand his statement. I guess Street, Belvidere, Illinois about an ex-English soldier History ogy). He received a bachelor the saying, "Salt in the blood, formerly with the 47th Infan­ serving in the Legion, named of science degree in mechani­ you can't leave the sea." So try (Ex-POW). John Mrugala served with the when the mud gets in your face Eustace Richard. The last two cal engineering in 1940, and George Emig, GlenshaW, Pa. 47th and is anxious to obtain a a degree in industrial manage­ it is hard to be anything but a chapters are about his view of copy of the Regiment's history. - formerly with Service Com­ the other side of the battle of ment in 1950. dog face soldier with a rifle pany 60th Inf. Unfortunately, copies of this He is a veteran of World over your shoulder. Port Lyautey and his eventual publication are no longer avail­ happy ending of being re­ War II, having served in the With God's help we hope to able. If anyone has an extra 15th Engineer Bn., Ninth In­ be wherever the association *** trained by the 60th F .A. Bn. copy of the history and wants The other book is by a Ger­ fantry Division, through eight meets this year. Jim's enlist­ to send it to John, you can campaigns and three invasions. ment is up May 31,'68 and he man author and is the other reach him by writing to Box 11, side of the invasion and is es­ He retired from the service in is going to retire. So looking Wild Bill Calms Barnesboro, Pa. 15714. 1963 as a Colonel in the U. S. forward to the reunion this sum­ pecially interesting on the per": John reports that Mrs. Mru­ iod of June !7-l8-l9. It was Army Reserves. He has pub­ mer. We were able to attend the gala has recoveredfrom her re­ lished several papers appro­ one in Philadelphia in '63 and we written by Paul Carell and en­ cent operation and that the Down titled "Invasion - They're Com­ priate to engineering and the had a time that will never be entire family is in good health forgotten. A card from Bill Zweil, Can­ ing." military. • and looking forward to attending CongratUlations, A. T. It Sincerely, non Co. 47th, reveals that he Happy to report a very busy the 1968 Reunion in Detroit. has run into some rough weath­ and exciting year, as I am, is welcome news to hear that June Bates another member of the Divi­ 59 Woodlawn Ave. er. Bill entered the V. A. Hos­ among other things, associated pital at East Orange, N. J. and with the Boston Red Sox. * * * sion has made good. Metairie, La. 70001 is now undergoing treatment. Hoping all is well with youand They must be doing all right the 9th Inf. Association. CLAIM FOR SERVICE· ** * by Wild Bill because he has Yours truly, *** CONNECTED DISABILITY nothing but praise for the hos­ Frank Lovell pital and its staff. Bill is a Former CWO There is no time limit for Ben Kovacs Sends Dues rugged campaigner and we are 60th F .A. Bn. a veteran to file a claim for Remember Dear Friends: willing to place a wager that he 25 Pomfret street a disability which he believes will be up and around within a West Roxbury, Mass ~ Just a few lines to let you to be service-connected. How­ the Dates I>now that all is o.k. I missed short time. ever, it is best to file the claim l't:lllL'mh·j' th· datt>' I"t· th\' the reunion last summer, but Bill's home address is 175 * * * as soon as possible after dis­ I'J",o I'l·uni"ll - July 18, 10,20. the family enjoyed a trip to Gold Street, North Arlington, covery of the condition in or­ Wisconsin to visit the Kellys N. J. How's about sending Tip of the Hat der to obtain prompt determi­ him a cheer up note. Many thanks to Frank Lov­ (Lyle) living in Fond Du Lac. nation and treatment of the dis­ I hope to see the members at ell, Gordon Taylor, Harold Sep­ ability. ter and John Thornton for send­ Pittsburgh the reunion this summer. *** ing donations to the Scholarship Ben Kovac (47th Inf) Fund. ** * Members Wanted 140 Bouton st. Old Sarge Writes So. Norwalk, Conn. Bob Mason of McKeesport, Old Sarge Steve Burdrick Pa., writes that he is trying writes to let us know that he is THE MEMORIAL FUND OF to contact former Ninth Divi­ *** still on the go. He enclosed the sion men who live in the vicin­ names of a couple of former THE 9TH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION ity of Pittsburgh. Bob believes Ninth Division men and the sec­ Scholarship Information that many Old Reliables reside retary's office is checkingthem in this area, and he feels that, PAY out for possible membership if they could get together it The Memorial Fund of the Ninth Infantry Division Association was 1968 for the association. established by the members of the association to commemorate the memory would b8 possible to reactivate Steve was formerly with G Co. of their comrajes who paid the supreme sacrifie in battle. As a part of this the Pittshurgh Chapter. DUES 47th Inf. and is living in South fund the association established a scholarship program. Scholarships are If you are interested in this River, N. J. Thanks a million, awarded each year to relatives of men who served in The Ninth Infantry venture, you can reach Bob at NOW Division. Each scholarship is for one year. old Sarge - we will be looking 611 Gross St., McKeesport, Pa. forward to meeting you at the ELIGIBILITY FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION 15132. reunion in Detroit. A person who wishes to apply for a scholarship must be related to a man who served with The Ninth Infantry DiVISion. Children of former member's of the division will be given first consideration. but children of * * * men killed in~ombat given first preference. Applicants who are not children of former members of the division will not be considered unleSli no child 47th Men Meet of a former member qualifies. APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCEDURE at Camp-Out in the The following procedures must be followed by those wishing to apply Lost Hills, California sounds for the scholarships: like a town far removed from LADIES' AUXILIARY 1. Send a letter of applicatio~ writte~ in expository form. to .the the beaten path, hut so long as of the chairman of the scholarship comnuttee stating the follOWIng: Wilton Taylor resides there, it name address age and sex of the applicant; name. address, NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION and ~upatio~ of'the applicant's parents or guardians; the will be well known to the Edi­ name and address of the secondary scliool the applicant is at­ tors of the Octofoil. Wilton Mrs. Tippie Plunkett, Secretary-Trea,urer tending or has attended and graduated; the name and address keeps a close tab on the af­ Ninth Infantry Division Association Ladies' Auxiliary of the college the applicant expects to attend; the vocational fairs of the Association and 286 Zimpfer SL, Columbus, Ohio 43206 goal of the applicant; and the name of and degree of relation­ maintains a lively correspond­ ship to a former member of the division. The unit and dates of ence with your Editors. He has I would like to become a member of the Ladies' Auxiliary terVice in the diviaion of the former member must be included. sent us many photographs that to the Ninth Infantry Division Association. Enclosed is 2. A transcript of the applicant'. high school record must be in­ check or mOllev order for $1.50 for 1968 dues. Please cluded with the letter of application. The transcript must in­ were taken at Bragg and over­ clude at least the first seven semesters of the applicant's record. seas and we intend to print mail my membership card to-- 3. The applicant must have a counselor or principal of the high some of them in future editions IChooI he or she is attend.ing write a letter of recommendation of the Octofoil. Nam-: to the chainnan of the scholarship committee. Wilton doesn't devote all his 4. The applicant must take the PSAT which is given every Octo­ time to writing; he is also an ber. The applicant muat _ that the results of the PSAT are Street MDt to the chainnan of the scholarship conuntttee. These re­ act!ve member of the National 1lI1t11 may be included with the high school tran8cript or sent Camp.ers and Hikers Associa~ to the chairman from the College Entrance Examination Board. tion, and spends a lot of time City .. _ _._._. __ _._._. __ .. _. ._ _ _.State . The SAT of the CEEB may be wbmitted in lieu of the PSAT. combing those California hills 5. THE APPLICATION MUST BE SENT TO THE CHAIRMAN in search of Ninth Division While attached to the 9th Infantry Division my ._ OF THE SCHOLARSHIP COMMITI'EE BY MARCH 15. Appli­ members. At a recent camp­ (state relationship, whether the Ninth Division man was a eationI received after March 15 will qot be considered. husband, father, brother, son, etc.) 8. All applicants must accept the decilion of the Scholarship Com- out Wilton met and signed up mittee u final. . Forrest N. Nol\)h of EI Monte, was with__ _ c_· _ 7. information to detennine &.mcial need will be requested by California. Forrest served with give company, regiment, battery, attached unit, etc.) the Scholanhip Committee after the applications have been con­ G Co. of the 47th and is one of Iidered. the old timers from Fort Bragg. a. Recipients of the 8cho1anhi~ may apply for renewal of the Make checks or money orders payable to Ninth Inf~tI:Y scholanhip _ch year. A copy 01 the ltudent'. college grades, Keep up the good work, Wil­ Division Association. Mail to Secretary-Treasurer TipPle a ftnancial statement, and a letter requesting renewal of the ton. We enjoy hearing from you Plunkett. 21'6 Ztmpfer St, Columbus, Ohio 43206.. A 1968 8cholarsh.ip ahould be senl to the chairman by March 15. . and hope that you hit some more countersigned membership card will be sent immediately. I. All applleatlona mUlt be lent to: John J. Clounr, Scholarship pay dirt in those California Chairman. Ninth Infantry D1viaion AaIociation. 901 Gl'1lceland hills. By order of the President: 81.. Dell PlaIn"- IlliDota 10018. MRS. THERESA CUPRYS, President. * * * P~6_ THEOCTOFOIL J J H :1 C LOU SER -412 Gregory Ave. J. Mauser Family REJOINS q 1 G RAe [ LA :J D STREET Weehawken, N. J.07087- :IES PLAt~JES, ILLINOIS RANKS Enjoyed Trip 60016

Aaron L. Alpert writes, "I was a member of the Associa­ Dear Friends, tion several years ago. I feel ILLINOIS CHAPTER It hardly seems possible that it's about time that I should IS YOUR OCTOFOI L another year has rolled by. Per­ again become a member. haps 1968 is the year our Lord I have been kept abreast of REPORTS will come. In Matthew 24:42 & what the association is doing ADDRESSED WITH 44, our Lord says, "Watch due to the interest of Harry Mrs. James J. Sullivan wrote therefore: for ye know not what Orenstein. I also, at this time, to Mike Belmonte that her hus­ hour your Lord doth come. form'~r want to congratulate Harry on band James, age 46, Therefore be ye also ready: being the new President of the mem':Jer of the 26th F .A. passed TELL-TALE RED INK? for in such hour as ye think New York Chapter. Harry is a away on November 17, 1967. not the Son of man cometh." diligent, hard worker for the Jim was stricken with a Cere­ Bobby says, "I am now 9 association. bral Hemorrhage. Surviving are and in the fourth grade at Bar­ My kindest regards. his widow and three children. It means you are about to ton School. This past summer Mrs. Sullivan lives at 2217 Aaron L. Alpert 9th QM be placed on the delinquent I got a big black rabbit, and Donning, Westchester, Illinois. 326 West Rock Ave. list and this will be your last named him Ears. Also this sum­ Our deepest Sympathy to Mrs. New Haven, Conn. 06515 issue of the Octofoil until dues mer I was on a baseball team. Sullivan. are paid. If you are among m,~m'Jer * It was called Jensen Carpet. I Another former of the back sliders get on the think I did very good for the *** the 26th F .A. - Joseph B. Pacer, ball and send your member~ first time. I joined Cub Scouts died on January 12, 1968 of a ship to the secretary's office, this year. I am having a lot of heart attack. Surviving is his Dan Quinn, 412 Gregory Av- fun making things. Right now widow, whose address is 4318 * enue, Weehawken, N. J. 07087 we are working on a pine wood Ramblings S. Trumbull Avenue, Chicago, derby racing car. I hope I winl" Illinois. Barby says,"IamnowI2-1/2 Jim Sullivan and Joe Pacer ** * and in the seventh grade at Lake Hello Dan: were active m'C'mbers in the Il­ Worth Junior High School. I Just a note and my check for linois Chapter and will be mIss­ still take Piano Lessons and this 1968 dues, while I have it on ed by many frientls. year started taking Oil Painting my mind. SICK CALL Lessons. I am now in Cadette The last issue of the paper Mrs. Roger Elmer was hos­ Girl Scouts and enjoying it very had qUi~ a change in appear­ pitalized and is doing fine. Also much. Just recently I started ance and for ease of reading. Roger Elm21' was hospitalized playing the Piano for the little The passing of Editor Paul but is now up and around. We kids opening Sunday School As­ Plunkett will be quite a loss wish hoth of them a speedy re­ sembly. I still have my cat, to the association, especially covery. Tiger. I keep busy with Piano, to you and the active group Bud Rem2r was also laid up Art and Homework." that keeps the association to­ with a bout with the "pumper" Bill (formerly Billy) says, gether. and attended the January meet­ "I am presently attending Lake With sincere wish for a suc- ing and looks "real good". Can Worth High School and in the cessful 1968. you imagine Bud drinking plain tenth grade. I will become 15 I remain, "Seven UP" - well it did hap­ next month and hope to get my Al Fessender pen. driver's license. I am still E Co. 60th Inf. Frank Ozart playing the Baritone Saxophone 14 Cedar Avenue 47th Infantry in the Mighty Trojan Band. Jamestown, N. Y. This past summer, at Pony League baseball practice, I *** fractured my ankle in two Gen. Knowlton To places and was on crutches for 6 weeks. I have been surfing Dear Dan: for approximately one year I just now realized that I have Succeed Gen. Fulton MONSCHAU, GERMANY now and enjoying the sport very not yet paid my Association dues much. I have just purchased a for the year 1968. To the best of The above photo was sent to us by Elmer Wagner and shows down­ new surf board for $175.00 my knowledge, it is the first ;n 9th D;v. Post town Monschau as seen from bridge. The same angle of this picture and a wet-suit to help keep time I have ever been in is shown on page 278 of "8 Stars to Victory". The 47th Infantry me warm for winter surfing. arrears, and I apologize sin­ occupied this town way back when. The old ruins on top of hill on Because of my age, I have cerely. Through THE OCTO­ LONG THANH - Brigadier west side of town can be seen in Elmer's photo also picture in "8 Stars". Elmer has many such photos taken on a trip to Europe transferred from Troop 205 FOIL, the Association keeps General William A. Knowlton is a few years ago and we are hoping he will permit us to use a few to Explorer Post 205 with some warm so many fine memories replacing Brigadier General Wil­ of them from time to time. of my older friends." and keeps alive so many fin~ liam B. Fulton as Assistant Divi­ The family enjoyed a full friendships, that I never wish sion Commander of the 9th Infan· two - week vacation in June, try Division. to relinqUish my' good standing which included a stay with Dot­ General Knowlton joins the Old in it. REQUEST FOR ROOM RESERVATIONS ty's folks in Fork Union, Vir­ Reliables after serving as Deputy Being tucked away in this far ginia, and attended a family Assistant Chief of Staff for the corner of the country I never· FOR' 9TH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSN. REUNIO~ weekend retreat at Black Moun­ Military Assistance Command see any fellow members, so tain, N. Carolina. We really had Civil Operations and Revolutionary you will notice I am also re­ July 18, 19,20, 1968 a ball at Maggie Valley where Development Sup par t (MAC questing that you send me an a cable car carried us up to CORDS). Octofoil License Disc. Maybe Statler-Hilton Hotel the mountain - top and Ghost General Fulton will report to if I sport that on the car, some Detroit, Michigan Ft. Polk, La., as deputy com· Town. We all got brave and took fellow member may flag me manding general. the ski-lift chair back down. A down some day. Please reserve for the undersigned, room reservations, short distance further we vis­ I join all my fellow mem­ While still a colonel, General as checked, for dates noted: ited Fontana Dam. We were all bers in expressing my thanks Fulton joined the embryo 9th Di\·i· impressed by the beauty and to you for the excellent and de­ "ion at Ft. Riley, Kan., in Feb. Name - grandeur of God's creation in voted work you have accom­ 1966 as assistant to the Division the Great Smoky Mountains. plished for the Association. We commander. The Old Reliables Address - Then on to Atlanta where we all owe you a debt of gratitude. had just been activated and he spent a night at the home of Yours truly, assisted in organizing and train· City - State - Zip - Carol and Marve Carlson, John K. Moore ing them. gracious friends from our 60th Inf. A&D Co. A month after arriving In Kan· Single Room () $10 Double Room () $15 Twin Room () $17 former church in Cleveland. N4, 12th Ave. East sas, General Fulton became com· We are most pleased and El Rancho Village manding officer of the 2d BrIgade. Rates prevail three days preceding the reunion and for three thankful with Bill's progress Bradenton, Fla. Under his direction, the brIgade days after the reunion. in the business office of the 33505 was molded trom a handful of beautiful John F. Kennedy Me­ FRE E PARKING morial Hospital where he soon officers and non-commissioned of· begins his fourth year. *** ficers into a full-strength, combat­ ready unit. Date of arrival._--:-_-:--:- --: Auf Wiedersehen and may the Approximate time of arrival__ A.M. . P.M. Lord bless each one. Dear Dan: General Fulton led the brigade Date of departure _ The Musers All - My wife and I had a wonderful to Vietnam last last J,muary, and B11I, Dotty, B11I, Barby, Bobhy time in Boston. We met a lot of immediately launched operations 1414 Hillcrest Drive my friends that I hadn't seen in ·the :\Tckong Ri\"('r Delta. In Lake Worth, Fla. 33460 since 1945. May see you in De­ March, ! 11(' Brigade lllO\'lxl into Christmas, 1967 troit. Infantry b:lSe camp In Vietnam, (B111 Mauser was with the 84th Sincerely, Dong Tam. the southernmost U. S. Field Artillery, Bty C) John Brandi Infantry bJ'e camp in Vietnam, 400 Buckeye st. to conduct operations deep in the Tiltonsville, Ohio Delta. Request for Space in Souvenir Program Div. Hq. Co. In mid.Tune, the l!d Brigade 43963 teamed up Ilith Navy Task Force 117 to form the first U. S. Mobile ATTACHED IS COpy FOR AN AD in the color printed 1968 Remember Riverine Force CMRFl since the Ninth Infant ry Di vision Association Reunion Program. Civil War. lIe was promoted to *** Full Page brigadier gpneral Aug. 16 and was $25. Half Page The Dates appointed il>sistant DivisIon com­ $15. Quarter Page mander on Aug. 81. $10. One-eighth Page Before le:l\ing Vietnam, General $ 5. Remember the dates Booster ads $ 1. - name and unit. for the Fulton received the Vietnamese • Cross of Gallantq willi palm and 1968 Reunion Send all ad copy, checks and money orders to: the Vietnamese Hon