Vol. 29, No. 1 SECOND AIR DIVISION ASSOCIATION Spring 1990

Anatomy of aConvention Budby Chamberlain Most (and, I hope, ALL) of us had a great time at our 42nd annual convention at Hilton Head Island's Hyatt Regency in South Carolina. In case any of you feel the location has something to do with the hotel chain by the same name, let me explain. Hilton Head Island was named for Captain William Hilton who charted the island in 1663 — over 200 years before Conrad Hilton was born. Early settlers grew indigo and long grain rice. From 1790 until the Civil War, long-staple Sea Island cotton was grown there. It was then turned into a Union base for 50,000 men. It has only been since 1949 that this largest of the Sea Islands has grown into a resort and residen- tial community of 12,000 people. The 15 by 4 mile island, about 50 miles southwest of Charleston, was incorporated only recently 2ADA Treasurer and Past President Dean Moyer (left) receives the 2ADA Exceptional in 1983. It was chosen by our convention Service Award from Bud Chamberlain committee on the rebound. After an unsuc- cessful 1989 site hunt on Florida's west and the banquet in the PM. In addition, convention, it was second best. The exact coast in 1986, the committee explored HHI tours for the ladies were arranged for attendance list is carried elsewhere in this on the way home. As fate would have it, quaint Beaufort and elegant old issue. That number taxed, nearly to the HHI was the charm. Not even horrific Charleston, South Carolina. Others visited limit, the flexible adaptability of our hotel. Hurricane Hugo interfered. square-filled Savannah, Georgia. Group hospitality rooms were readily con- Convention activity began on October As a special concession to the 2ADA, for verted to accommodate assemblies of all, 31st with two solid days of Executive the support received from its members, Bob then, readily converted back again when Committee meetings. All of our Group Vice Collings of the Collings Foundation flew needed. Every square inch of space Presidents shared a portion of this period his newly and beautifully restored B-24J, available was used for the Group dinners and vocally participated in discussions on All American, to HHI for all to enjoy — including some of the hotel's public behalf of those units they represented. The and enjoy they did! All American was open restaurants. But the competent hotel staff fun started Wednesday night at an early to walk through examination from Thurs- responded fully to Evelyn Cohen's orches- bird cocktail party for those who couldn't day through Sunday morning. It drew quite tration and everything worked out 1 wait to get there. I received some comments a crowd. We appreciate the Collings Foun- beautifully. Something else added much to about the hors d'oeuvres running out too dation's willingness to add such an the general environment and harmony we soon and we are sorry about that. The plan emotional highlight to the convention at enjoyed. It merits special attention. Our was to provide a get-together before going such bargain rates. Those who haven't seen long suffering smokers considerately to dinner. Perhaps some of us assumed it this masterful restoration should do so at honored our request to avoid lighting up in was a buffet instead. In any event, we hope their next opportunity. the dinner and meeting rooms and there that it did not spoil an otherwise super The dedicated and hard-working Dzeno- was no apparent effort to "crash" the week. wagises continued their seemingly endless banquet or other events as was experienced The format was about the same as those quest to video document a personal glimpse in recent past conventions. This coopera- of recent years. Golf was on Thursday of each 2ADA veteran. This is a painless tion and understanding was thoroughly morning (see Pete Henry's report elsewhere and powerful way to preserve for your heirs appreciated all around. in the Journal), the group dinners that and the Association the part you played in This year, following the Friday night evening, a buffet dinner Friday night and, history. Respond to their appeal for inter- buffet, we decided to recognize formally on Saturday, the Annual Meeting in the views the next time the Dzenowagises some of our dedicated long term volun- AM (covered by Dave Patterson in Winter extend one. You'll not regret it. teers. Appreciation for them has been long Journal), the men's luncheon at midday Although this was not our best-attended overdue. Certainly, the few that were (continued on page 3) Second Air Division Association Eighth Air Force President's Message HONORARY PRESIDENT by Frank DiMola JORDAN UTTAL 7824 Meadow Park Drive, Apt. 101, Dallas, TX 75230 I wish to thank the Nominating Committee and the members of this Association for choosing me as the next OFFICERS President of this great memorial association. It is a thrill President FRANCIS DiMOLA to be recognized as your 35th 390 Madison Avenue, New Milford, NJ 07646 President. I know that I Executive Vice President RICHARD KENNEDY have a "tough row to hoe," succeeding such great P.O. Box 337, Malvern, PA 19355 leaders and speakers. Vice President As all previous presidents have set various goals, Membership EVELYN COHEN so Apt. 06-410 Delaire Landing Road will 1, and our aims are not much different other than to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19114 keep them working and achieve better results. Vice President Journal WILLIAM G. ROBERTIE At this moment, our greatest project is the Memorial P.O. Box 627, Ipswich, Mass. 01938 Fund with a projected figure of $500,000. We are well Treasurer DEAN MOYER on our 549 East Main St., Evans City, Pa 16033 way to reaching this mark. As of this writing in January 1990, we have received a Secretary DAVID G. PATTERSON total of $354,000. I am sure that in the next issue of the Journal, we shall be over the top. 28 Squire Court, Alamo, Calif. 94507 A lot of thanks go to all you Group Vice Presidents, who are doing a great job. Thanks to all of you. A scale is published in every issue and you all know who the leaders are, so you of GROUP VICE PRESIDENTS the lower groups, "Get goin'!" Just remember Headquarters DOROTHY KROGMANN that any amount will help. 437 Coral Drive, Melbourne, FL 32901 Since we are a last person organization, a lot of planning must be done. With all of the 44th BG H C (Pete) HENRY mini-reunions that are being held by so many groups, I just wonder what are your plans? We 164B Portland Lane, Jamesburg, NJ 08831 would like to know through your Group Vice 93rd BG FLOYD MABEE Presidents. 28 Hillside Ave., Dover, NJ 07801 Our new Executive Vice President, Richard Kennedy, will assume the position as the 2nd 389th BG LLOYD E. WEST ADA Representative to the Heritage League. Our Past President, Bud Chamberlain, has Box 256, Rush Center, KS 67575 been a great help and administrator in organizing this along 392nd BG JOHN B. CONRAD League with so many other people. 2981 Four Pines, #1, Lexington, KY 40502 Our membership has been growing ever so rapidly. We feel that we have not reached our 445th BG CHARLES L. WALKER peak yet. When the new members find out about the Association, they immediately ask 1530 S. Pomona B-32, Fullerton, CA 92632 themselves, "Where have I been all these years?" 446th WILLIAM F. DAVENPORT 13382 Wheeler Place, Santa Ana, CA 92705 When you read this issue, more than half of my term of office will have passed. I have 448th BG GAIL IRISH been in touch with all the principles of the Association, moving programs along. So with a 711 Lisbon Avenue, Rio Rancho, NM 87214 few projects and plans to fulfill this coming year, I wish 453rd BG WILBUR STITES to thank all the officers and 9334 Kahl Road, Black Earth, WI 53515 ex-officio members for all the assistance they have given to this Association. 458th BG E A ROKICKI Until we meet in Norwich this July 1990, Elizabeth and I say "Peace and good health 365 Mae Rd., Glen Burnie, MD 21061 to all." 466th BG ELWOOD NOTHSTEIN 40 Meadow Dr., Spencerport, NY 14559 467th BG JACK STEVENS 3526 Larga Circle, San Diego, CA 92110 Vice President's 489th BG JAMES DAVIS Message 2519 Shell, Midland, TX 79705 491st BG HAROLD FRITZLER View from the "Initial Point" 1130 S.W. Chestnut Drive, Portland, OR 97219 by Richard M. Kennedy 492nd BG E W (Bill) CLAREY 2015 Victoria Court, Los Altos, Calif. 94022 Prior to starting that momentous run from the I.P. to the target, may I express my sincere appreciation to the HERITAGE LEAGUE President MRS. KURT (VICKI) WARNING Nominating Committee and the membership for their 2736A N Dayton, Chicago, IL 60614 confidence and good will in affording me the opportu- nity to serve as the 2nd ADA Executive Vice President. I JOURNAL Editor WILLIAM G. ROBERTIE told the Nominating Committee, when approved, I'd be P.O. Box 627, Ipswich, Mass. 01938 honored; I tell you, the membership, that in addition, I am so very proud. I'll do my best, I thank you all DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS FREDERICK MEYER personally and on behalf of my Group. 106 Nottoway Drive, Penllyn, PA 19422 You've all been through it, suddenly you're the newcomer, the rookie member of the DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES team. I know. I have, in the forty-four plus DAVID G PATTERSON years in the business world, faced this situation 28 Squire Court, Alamo, Calif 94507 several times and, believe it or not, came away in fairly good shape. Well, here we go again, after all those hazardous and exciting years, mature and seasoned, suddenly I'm a rookie BOARD OF GOVERNORS again. In all of those MEMORIAL previous "first timer" situations, I felt like a newcomer; however, in THOMAS C. EATON, Chairman this instance, I immediately felt I was being accepted as a full fledged member of the 3 Upper King Street, Norwich, Norfolk, England Executive Team. Do you know why? I think I do. This group of 2nd ADA officers, as I PAUL R. KING, Vice Chairman Noverre House, Norwich NR2 RH, England evaluate them, are truly mature and seasoned veterans, each fully confident in their own MRS. MICHAEL BARNE capabilities and fully conversant with their official responsibilities. What makes this Crowfoots, Sotterley Beccle, Suffolk NR34 7T2 achieved level of accomplished leadership more remarkable is the fact that they are all CDR. MARK EDMONSTONE CHEYNE Ditchingham Lodge "volunteers" and from all walks of life. Ditchingham, Bungay, Suffolk, England As members of the 2nd ADA, we can all be very secure in the feeling that our Association ROGER A. FREEMAN is, and has been, in competent or May's Barn, Dedham, Nr. Colchester. Essex, England C076EVV management hands. The 2nd ADA future can be as bright, FRANK W. GADBOIS brighter, than our brilliant past. All it takes is purpose, loyalty and a basic ingredient, honest Dept of the A_F. hard work. RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk, England I am completely DAVID J. HASTINGS dedicated to the concept of a strong and unified 2nd ADA and I want to "Westering," Salhouse, NR, Norwich, Norfolk, NR136RO. England assure the membership that my efforts will be sharply bent in that direction. I will be as ALFRED A. JENNER available to each group and each member as physical and time restraints will allow; 15 Ransom Rd., Norwich, Norfolk NR 14AJ remember, it's my privilege! DR. RONALD D. CLIFTON Please, join with me in assisting our President, Frank DiMola, 24 Grosvenor Sq., London, WIA IAE, England in carrying out his assigned tasks in the same successful manner recorded by his PROFESSOR HOWARD TEMPERLEY predecessors. School of English and American Studies University of East Anglia, Earlham, Norwich, England "Honor the Villages" — it has a most appreciative ring, doesn't it? Let's make certain, LT. COL. W.D. WUEST come July, that we create an event we can all be proud of and that our wonderful British 14 St. Andrews Close, Hingham, Norfolk NR9 4JT friends will fondly remember. MRS FRANCES DAVIES 57 Church Lane, Eaton, Norwich NR4 6NY 2 Table of Contents

President's Message 392nd Bomb Group ARTICLES FRANK DiMOLA 2 JOHN CONRAD 28 Anatomy of a Convention Vice President's Message The 445th Reporting BUD CHAMBERLAIN 1 RICHARD KENNEDY 2 CHUCK WALKER 31 "Yank" Report on Our Memorial Trust 446th Bungay Bull CAL STEWART 6 BUD KOORNDYK 13 BILL DAVENPORT 22 The Original Porta-Potti American Librarian Fund Drive 448th Bomb Group MICHAEL DONAHUE 8 JORDAN UTTAL 5 GAIL IRISH 8 Born 1948 - Still Thriving in 1990 Attendees at 1989 Convention 20 453rd Bunchered Buddies JORDAN UTTAL 9 MILT STOKES 4 2ADA Film Library 27 Swan Song Folded Wings 28 458th Bomb Group BUD CHAMBERLAIN 10 RICK ROKICKI 12 Letters 31 Mission to Bremen, Germany 466th Bomb Group HUBERT RADFORD 15 ELWOOD NOTHSTEIN 25 GROUP REPORTS First GCA? 467th Poop from Group GEORGE REYNOLDS 23 44th News JACK STEVENS 15 Developmental PETE HENRY 11 Fear 489th Bomb Group COY LAWSON 26 Open Letter to the 93rd JIM DAVIS 13 FLOYD MABEE 24 Clouds Got In Their Way - Sequel 491st Ringmaster Reports JOHN KOWALCZUK 29 389th Sky Scorpions HAP CHANDLER 7 GENE HARTLEY 14 Hold a Grudge! Who, Me? Missives from the 492nd ED WANNER 30 BILL CLAREY 4

Anatomy of a Convention (continued from page 1) honored by no means exhausted the list of Trust Governor for over 32 years, Tom our deserving people, but it was a start. Eaton has a Memorial perspective shared by Others will be called at subsequent conven- few others and we were pleased to hear tions. Among the awardees were former from him. The cap on the luncheon was Group Vice Presidents E.O. "Buddy" delivered tunefully by the Hilton Head Cross (445th), Jim Coffey (467th), George Island Sounds Barbershop Chorus of the Nokes (489th) and Pat Perry (491st) who Society of the Encouragement and Preser- received Group VP Certificates. In their vation of Barbershop Quartet Singing in absences the certificates were received, America, Inc. They delighted us with a respectively by group representatives Chuck capella four part harmony for a half hour Walker, Jack Stevens, Jim Davis and or so and sent us away with a smile on our Harold Fritzler. 2ADA Distinguished collective faces. Service Awards were presented to original The grand finale, as always, was the 2AD Trust Governor, Anne Barne, Pete annual banquet. It was expertly presided Henry (44th), Bud Koorndyk (389th), Andy over, again, by our venerable resident Low (453rd), Fred Meyer (489th), Dave M.C., Jordan Uttal. I don't know about Patterson (445th), Rick Rokicki (458th), you, but I felt the program he presented and Hathy Veynar (HQ). Receiving 2ADA was in excellent balance. There was the Exceptional Service Awards were Evelyn touching traditional candle - lighting Cohen (HQ), the Dzenowagises (467th), ceremony, the invocation and singing of the Trust Governor Chairman, Tom Eaton, American and British national anthems Outgoing 2ADA Trust Governor Jordan Dean Moyer(HQ), Bill Robertie (44th) and followed by dinner and remarks by the Uttal reports at the 2ADA Annual Meeting. Jordan Uttal (HQ). Finally, two special outgoing and incoming presidents. This was Jordan was surprised with a parade of 2ADA Presidential Awards were given. all washed down with dancing in the Miller donations to the 2AD Memorial, starting One, for Leadership, was presented to mood. It all seemed to be well received. with the Heritage League at $500. founding 2AD Trust Governor, B/Gen. An exciting extra touch, though, was Milt Arnold. The other, for Freedom, was added to the banquet this year. A drawing its Heritage League auxiliary, a two time given to Anne Brusselmans, a member of was held for the beautiful handmade 2AD past Association President (1952-53 and the WWII Belgian Resistance who helped quilt made for the purpose by one of our 1963-64), a nominated Governor to the repatriate many of our downed flyers. Since WACs, Dorothy Krogman. This climaxed a Memorial Trust of the Second Air Division neither recipient was able to attend, their highly successful one year WAC project to USAAF in England, a formative Executive awards were received by Andy Low (453rd) raise funds for "Our Last Mission" Committee member and gracious master of and George DuPont (448th). Honorary (American Librarian Fund). Displaying ceremonies, Jordan is the organization's Membership Certificates also were great 2ADA spirit, they contributed living memory and conscience." We regret presented in absentia to Anne Brusselmans $2400.00 to the fund. The lucky quilt win- to see this inevitable change in the structure and Fulbright Scholar Librarian, Bertha ner was a delighted Margaret Calderalo of our unique Association. However, we Chandler. Setting the stage for the awards (466th). Thanks again to our WACs for are pleased that Jordan's valued counsel ceremony was first time 2ADA convention their imagination, energy and generosity will continue to be available to us. He attendee and motivational speaker, Cliff and to all 2ADAers who participated. accepted the nomination and was elected Thomas (453rd). An experienced man at his Finally, on a sad note, Jordan Uttal unanimously to the office of 2ADA Hono- craft, Cliff did a marvelous job of putting announced his retirement as our represen- rary President. Congratulations, Jordan! us all in the right frame of mind. We look tative Governor to the 2AD Memorial Congratulations also are extended to Past forward to his next performance. Trust. It is fitting, therefore, to repeat the President E. "Bud" Koorndyk (389th) who At the men's luncheon, heroine Anne words contained in the citation on his was nominated to succeed Jordan as our Brusselmans had planned to speak to us. 2ADA Exceptional Service Award presen- Governor on the Trust. Our prayers and Regretfully, illness forced her to change her ted to him at Hilton Head. "To Charter best wishes go to Bud. May they provide the plans. The other guest speaker, however, Member, Jordan Uttal, for lifelong devoted strength, vision and wisdom needed to was there and delivered remarks concerning and exceptional service to the Association. fulfill this important assignment. ON TO the future of the 2AD Memorial Trust. As a As a founder of both the Association and NORWICH AND THE FUTURE! 3 Bunchered Buddies of Old Buck Missives From by Milton R. Stokes the 492nd Early mornings this time of year are sion Association played such a big part in by Bill Clarey usually cold, usually in the low 20s and 30s, making all of this possible. We give our but not this year. We have had a heat wave heartfelt thanks to Bob & Caroline Collings During the reunion at Hilton Head, of up to 62°F. At night the thermometer for making the effort to preserve such a Gerald Edwards, of Loris, S.C., showed us sinks to 25 °-30 °. So we can't complain, can beautiful flying ship. Those who watched a cap that a friend of his had sewn in the we? This is warfn for this northeastern sec- that day on the sands of South Carolina words "492nd Bomb Group, North Picken- tion. We are waiting for the other shoe to were trying hard not to let the tears flow too ham, England." After some discussion, the drop, namely the 5° or lower temperatures freely. She flies through the efforts of a lot members in attendance decided that it we had earlier this year. The low of people. Hundreds — maybe thousands would be nice if the caps could be made temperature doesn't seem to bother the — of old fly boys have given a few dollars available to all the members of our group. birds, though. We have bluebirds at the just to make this dream come true. My first We chose the red colored cap as being the wood's edge, and at our window feeder dai- look at the ship was at Stow, most visible in a crowd. Cost of the cap is ly we see dozens of song sparrows, blue Massachusetts. It was lying on the hangar $5.55 each plus whatever mailing costs are jays, juncos, Louisiana wrens, nut hatches, floor, completely disassembled; it looked involved. The caps are very well made of and other voracious feeders. When we like a pile of junk. I thought, "No one can quality material. So, if anyone is interested ground corn, we would feed them buckets possibly put that thing together, let alone please let me know. full of feed which would be eaten in hours. make it fly!" But brave little Mrs. Caroline Last evening, Art Holter (467th) called before the assembly of skep- We don't raise corn anymore, so that Collings stood and said that the film "For Veterans Only" source of energy for the birds is gone. As tical old fly boys and vehemently stomped would be shown on television. The film had more and more farms such as ours fall into her feet and said that this heap would fly very good story about the development disuse, this trend will increase; the birds and again. I can't remember, but there MUST a small game will look elsewhere for food. have been tears in her eyes. Little did she and production of the Consolidated B-24. Lucille and I rode the train, in a sleeper, know — nor could she have realized the ef- It also included footage from combat films. to the convention in South Carolina. That fort and heartbreak before that dream Footage was also shown on the B-24 "All was our first trip like that in forty-five could come to fruition. But we saw it fly, American" that was restored by the Bob years. (The last time we did that was in 1943 felt the wind of its passing, heard the roar Collings Foundation. All in all, it was well when we were sent to Miami Beach for of those new Pratt & Whitney engines; we worth watching. R & R!) We stopped at all of the sleepy, were thrilled by a dream that came true. I have received word from Don rural stations where only a few people got There are a lot of people who help with Prytulak's daughter Lorraine, that Don on or off. Looking out of the train window the showing of "All American" at each passed away on November 10, 1989. He will at some dreary scenes, I couldn't help but stop it makes. I list only a small portion of be missed. think that not much has changed in this the overall concerned with this work: Bill & I have just received word that the North part of America. Oh yes, the lights are no Dottie Eagleson, Russ Harriman, Lloyd Central Region of the Second Air Division longer the incandescent white. Now the Prang, Bob & Helen Pedigo, Charlie Hun- will hold its 7th Annual Reunion on Oc- night lights are an orange lumination of toon, Bob & Betty Jordan, Wes & June tober 10-12, 1990 at French Lick, Indiana. sodium vapor which seems to end at the Bartelt, Frank Thomas, Eddie Myers, Andy Anyone who is interested in attending platform edge. Our train had no milk cans Low and many, many more. We hope to should write to Paul Steichen, 93rd BG, Chester County to unload, and only forlorn looking have the ship on display at 1659 Cloister Drive, Indianapolis, IN Airport here in Pennsylvania some time this passengers boarded to get an early start for 46282. Sounds as though it will be a very their jobs. year. I don't know when because Bob good meeting. The train stations all seemed new. They Collings has not given Bill Eagleson a date Those in attendance at Hilton Head were had terrazzo floors, most of which were wet yet. So if you live in this area of the east and from recent scrubbing. No cotton bales want to attend, just write me a note and I'll Bud and Margaret Beasley, Bill and Norma were waiting in the dark shadows for ship- tell you when it will be in the Philadelphia Beasley, Gerald and Hazel Edwards, Gil ment to the gins. There were no long lines area. Green and Harry Orthman. of people waiting to get on or off the Now a sad note: An original member of John C. Tracey called me last night and slumbering train. This train didn't belch the 453rd BG, Gustav R. Johnson, of we conversed about the mission where he sooty, black clouds of smoke or steam; this Brainerd, Minnesota, has folded his wings. landed the "Tequila Daisy" at Dubendorf, was a diesel train which, at times, must have The late Jack Nortridge was his pilot. Switzerland. Since he lives nearby, we plan been going over one hundred miles per (Brainerd was also Don Olds' original to get together and talk over old times. hour. There were no clackety-clack sounds home.) More anon. from the wheels on the steel rails, only the The Johnson name reminds me that we swish of the wind flowing over the have not heard from Clint Johnson for a streamlined shape of our sleeper. Almost couple of years. His home is in Silver City, like flying but no roar of engines droning New Mexico. Clint, if you are reading this, into the night; we slept soundly. I would like to hear from you! Pat and Agnes Ramm, from Old Buck, Mini-reunion note: The next meeting of ADA were our guests to and from Hilton Head. the North Central Region of the 2nd French They heard a lot of new stories of the old is October 10, 11 and 12, 1990 at This will 453rd Bomb Group. They met a lot of new Lick Springs Resort in Indiana. Indiana, Ohio, people and talked to everyone! They must include the following states: Missouri, have been as impressed and chilled by the Kentucky, Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota. Those fly-by of the B-24, "All American," as we Iowa, Wisconsin and go, were. The plane buzzed the hotel and outside that area who might wish to Cloister Drive, dropped even lower to the beach to write to Paul Steichen, 1659 acknowledge our cheers and waving. There Indianapolis, IN 46260. were a lot of wet eyes in our reviewing stand You of the 453rd BG know of the reu- on the hotel's high veranda. It was thrilling nion in England on July 25-31, 1990. It to once again experience the blast of noise grieves me to tell you that I will not be there. I have asked Wilbur Clingan to han- from the four R-1830 twin Wasp engines; to Gerald Edwards (modeling the cap) dle the affair in my stead and he has agreed. feel the blast of air created by the passage of and Bud Beasley at Hilton Head such a beautiful ship through the air. It was You will hear more from Wilbur on that nice to know that we of the 2nd Air Divi- subject. 4 American Librarian Fund Progress Report by Jordan Uttal As you will note elsewhere in this issue, I have been asked to continue as Chairman of PLEDGE COMMITMENT the Librarian Fund Drive Committee for the time being. It is with more than a little pride HOW WE STAND AS OF that I ant able to report that as I write this in 4 JANUARY 1990 O I pledge $1,000 mid-January, we are more than 68% towards our goal of $500,000. We are most O I pledge $500 gratified with the support we have received from the Group Vice Presidents and Project $500 O I pledge $ Officers, and of course, with the actual donations we have received from the 1,568 donors have members. contributed 1,780 O To be given at once You can see from the numbers how your checks so far — and own Group stands. We are focusing more we have 70 pledges O To be given by end of 1990 outstanding attention on the number of donors because of the fact that quite a few of our members $400 are sending in monthly checks towards their Please make all checks payable to: pledges, and therefore, the number of checks 2nd Air Division Association could be misleading. However, please note that we have had only 1,568 donors out of a membership of Mail To: $7,500! In short we can see the remarkable 80%/20% statistic, where it seems that in $300 Jordan R. Uttal any collective effort only 20% of the 7824 Meadow Park Drive, Apt. 101 members account for 100% of the results. In Dallas, Texas 75230 this case, 21% of you have given your sup- port to this very important Last Mission. You have been exposed to many appeals from many of your fellow members, Asso- Name (Please Print) ciation Officers, Group Vice Presidents. I $200 can only add that all of the notes which accompanied at least a third of the 1,780 checks I have received were unanimous in Address their agreement that we must make this our most successful mission ever! The personnel of the 2nd Air Division performed admirably during the City State - Zip War. We who survived owe those $100 who didn't — and we owe each other — the successful funding for an American Librarian to keep our 2nd Air Division Signature Memorial as the best possible reminder to future generations of our efforts — our losses — and our Victory. How about sending in your evidence of Date Group support now!!!

HOW DOES YOUR Norwich GROUP STAND? Roger Freeman Number Number Number Is On The Prowl — Reunion Unit of Donors of Checks of Pledges 458th 241 266 8 Again Vacancies 93rd 144 161 5 467th 127 138 6 Roger is coming out with his fourth Due to a set of circumstances 448th 123 128 2 in the Mighty Eighth Series but he beyond my control I now have a few 44th 114 126 2 needs your assistance. This fourth vacancies for the Norwich Reunion 389th 113 138 14 volume will be composed entirely of later this year. If you have been 453rd 109 130 2 color photos — some 300 plus. holding back on making reservations, 445th 101 123 7 Another hundred or so will complete DON'T! This could be your last 491st 82 109 6 the fourth volume of the Mighty 466th chance. 82 89 3 Eighth Series. If you have any such 489th 81 90 4 photos, please send copies or originals For further and full information 446th 76 82 1 contact: 392nd to: 72 83 3 Roger A. Freeman HDQ 66 77 5 May's Evelyn Cohen 492nd 27 Barn 29 2 Dedham Colchester 06-410 Delaire Landing Road Philadelphia, PA 19114 In addition, we Essex C07 6EW have had 11 checks from 10 donors Tel. (215) 632-3992 from various sources. England "Yank" Submitted by Cal Stewart

The 93rd Bombardment Group arrived in Later, Stewart became General Edward Thirty years ago, Stewart, the news- England in early September 1942 — the first J. (Ted) Timberlake's aide. Noting his paperman, took out time to research and B-24 outfit in the European theater — with aide's obsession for single copies, the co-author with the late James Dugan the thirty spare radio operators. One of those, general asked, "Why?" The reply: "Sir, 1962 Random House release, Ploesti: The Private Carroll Stewart, also known as Cal, some day I hope to reproduce them." The Great Ground-Air Battle of August I, 1943. came from a Nebraska countyseat news- general then asked: "How about some Random House went through five print- paper. He promptly launched a weekly, spares for me?" "Yes, sir," Stewart ings, but hasn't agreed to re-issuing at this two-page, tabloid-format newspaper, The replied, "but your collection will be subor- time. Stewart is now embarked on another Liberator. Photo engravings were made in dinate to mine." "Fine," said the general, book. You guessed it: Ted's Travelling Cambridge, typesetting and printing were and Stewart continued to take batches to Circus. done in Peterborough; Stewart lugged the Fletcher Printing Works in Norwich, on During the Second Air Division Associa- copies to Nissen huts, tents, NAAFI Hall, Prince of Wales Road, for storage and tion's business session at Hilton Head, clubs and offices. He played the content by binding. November 4, 1989, in connection with the ear as Intelligence officers would have Enter James Stewart, the actor-squadron 42nd annual reunion, Stewart presented the nothing to do with it because the material commander, who had been appointed "pooled" set of Yank to the Association on hadn't been seen by the theater press Timberlake's chief-of-staff. The general behalf of himself and Timberlake, who has censor. and the two Stewarts, one a combatant- resided on the island since his retirement as The British Ministry of Supply starved to colonel and the other a desk-type junior a lieutenant general two decades ago. death The Liberator, after London editions officer, shared the same office. After In recent months Timberlake has become of Yank and Stars and Stripes were found- awhile Colonel Stewart asked, "Would familiar with the surgeon's scalpel, and is ed in November 1942. The Ministry decreed there be possibility of some left-over copies battling a recurrence of Hodgkin's disease. no newsprint would be available for any for me?" The non-flyer said: "Yes, sir, but Jordan Uttal accepted the volumes on American military command other than the general's collection is subordinate to behalf of the Association. He said the set Yank and S & S. The Ministry's target was mine, and yours will be subordinate to the will be conveyed to the Second Air Division obvious: The 93rd Group had the only GI general's. Your collection will have some Memorial Library in Norwich, "enabling unit publication in a combat zone vacancies." the library to lay claim to having among its anywhere. Three years after the war an obliging and holdings a rare collection — the original aging Mr. Hodgkinson, still the Fletcher London edition of Yank, famous for its bookbinder, shipped the three sets of Yank Sad Sack, Artie Greengroin, pin-up girls, to the United States. facts and fiction." In 1980, Stewart, the newspaperman, Uttal said the value of the original print- formed Reprint Inc. in Lincoln, Nebraska ing, in bound volumes, is being established to reproduce Yank — all 3,600 pages with by appraisers. "We consider the gift a hundreds of pictures, 154 issues. The valuable resource," he said in thanking the Department of Defense owns the copyright donors. and Stewart obtained permission to "Yank lived and died during World War reproduce and market. II and will be cared for and preserved in the The Lincoln publisher thought he owned Memorial Library," Uttal added. the superior set. Not so, said the camera crew preparing the pages. Mr. Hodgkinson, understandably but erroneously, had for- warded the prime set to General Timberlake. Stewart rang up Timberlake who rushed his set to Nebraska. The presswork proceeded. The reprinted Yanks in bound volumes are coveted by libraries and personal collec- tors. Reprint Inc. has sets in inventory, also negatives of all pages. Each volume in the reprint series spans six months of the war. Stewart exhibits one volume of the original A word about Yank: The London edition Yank. Each volume spans six months of was the original overseas edition and the American participation in World War II. flagship (for months the only overseas edi- tion). As the war wore on, Yank was also Stewart then began contributing articles, printed in Cairo, Naples, Rome, Paris, some bylined, to both Yank, the War Brussels, Frankfurt — even in Manila Department's overseas substitute for Sun- (1945). Crack GI reporters, photographers day newspaper magazine supplements back and cartoonists covered all fronts, all bran- home, and Stars & Stripes, the five-day-a- ches. The London staff generated much of General Timberlake tries on the All Ameri- week tabloid, usually four pages. By then the global combat material and features. can Liberator cap presented by the 93rd R. Stewart was the 93rd's public relations A limited circulation New York edition Bombardment Group's Colonel John known officer. appeared several months before the Lon- Roche. The 93rd, which came to be as "Ted's Travelling Circus." was the first He subscribed to the London-based GI don start. In the Eisenhower Library at B-24 outfit in action in the European papers but deliveries weren't always Abilene, it's the New York edition on theater, flew more missions and dropped reliable. He display; the same salvaged copies from trash cans domestic edition is found more tonnage than any other Eighth Air and bunks, and pressed the fellows at the in the libraries at the national headquarters Force group. chaplain, special services and post offices to of The American Legion (Indianapolis) and save him copies, accumulating many the Veterans of Foreign Wars (Kansas multiples. City). 6 491st BOMB GROUP THE LAST AND THE BEST the RINGMASTER REPORTS By Hap Chandler USAF MUSEUM MEMORIAL At the Savannah reunion a resolution was unanimously adopted, and subsequently confirmed at the business meeting at Hilton Head, to erect an appropriate at memonal the USAF Museum in Dayton, Ohio. The following our actions have been completed: "letter of intent" has been accepted by the Museum Director: Site 247 has been reserved for the 491st memorial: and a London Plane tree (European been Sycamore) has purchased. It will be planted in March with representatives of the 491st present. 35 Ringmasters have donated $2,790 toward this project; 11 have pledged an additional $845. All who served with the 491st are encouraged to join in making this project a resounding success. Hap unveils the latest in green & white tail markings. A seperate money market account has been established this fund, your for Please mail donation to Mary Rice, Treasurer, c/o Ringmasters Log, 5318 Fairfield West, PX. He has just received a new shipment of green jackets for exclusive sale to Duowoody, GA 30338. Checks should be made to the "491st Bomb Group Memorial Ringmasters. If you have previously ordered one of these jackets and had no response, Fund." kindly advise Harold. 1990 REUNIONS HANGAR FLYING Keith DON DAY, 1113 N. New Haven, and Iris Thomas are working with the Swaffham town council to assure a Tulsa, Ok 74115, kept us enthralled for the rousing better part of an hour getting up-to-date reception for the 491st contingent as well as the 492nd troops who will regarding the 491st, Second Air Division, US on join and old friends from our day in North Pickenham and Swaffham. the 854th Squadron. Don is an original Ringmaster and we At look forward last report the convention was "sold out". If you don't have reservations to his contributions. He was delighted to know that HAYNES are and BAUMGARDNER interested in going , write or call Evelyn Cohen. is alive and well in Texas. FRANK ALLISON,208 Carson, Red Oak, TX 491st REUNION IN DAYTON,OHIO, 1990 75154, flew with Don. He is now retired and living in Red Oak. Frank's We plan to letter contained a Life Subscription check to dedicate our 491st Bomb Group Memorial AT THE USAF Museum in the Log. Many thanks Frank! October. ARNOLD SCHONBERG, P.O. This will be the climax of our third reunion which will be held in Dayton. Box 279. Oklawaha, FL 32177 (winter address) Current checked in with a report that he has forty (40) plans call for an "early bird" check-in on Wednesday, registration, cash 853rd Squadron patches, authentic in bar, and every detail, available. You can obtain buffet dinner on Thursday, buffet breakfast and busses to the Museum, one for eight dollars and fifty cents ($8.50) Dedication from the Ringmaster's Log. ceremony beginning Friday at 10 AM ,lunch at the Museum and memorial. Profits, if any, will go to the memorial fund. Saturday, departure breakfast and check-out. ROBERT C.(Bob) BACHER, 116 Heidcrestr Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 checked We will into his first reunion at Hilton Head reserve 100 rooms at the selected headquarters hotel. Room rates and and was promptly reunited with two classmates function (44-6, Pan American costs are not available at this time. Be assured, however, that Airways Navigation School): DON "The Great One" Possible the best price FERGUSON, will be negotiated by our reunion chairman, NORM CANFIELD. and HAP CHANDLER. Bob bailed out twice during his 854th days at FRANK LEWIS,900 Greenwood North Pick. pre- Drive, Dublin, GA 31201 will again be handling registration and banquet reservations. "The Great One", is rapidly recovering from his recent stroke as evidenced by his admonishment to your incoming We will be mailing a seperate notice with costs, program. We will give as much VP. "Get your 'tail colors' right - green and white! notice as Boxer shorts yet. I wear them most possible. After all the bills were paid and the checking account closed, every day Ferg!" Frank MARK TURNER, grandson sent me a check for $225.85 which I sent back to him to reopen our 491st, of DWIGHT TURNER, one of the 854th original Reunion In, account. pilots, delighted us all with his fantastic memorabilia collection. Mark and ROSS HOUSTON were up SAVANNAH REUNION November 1,1989 to the wee hours. Mark is a remarkable young man and we are 102 honored to have him associated members, wives and guests attended the dinner at Days Inn, Savannah. with the 491st. were in 42 491st GROUP ROSTER attendance at the business meeting held the morning of November 2nd. Resolutions Mary Wiley is putting together committing the organization to erect a memorial at the USAF Museum a roster which we hope to have available early in was the spring. We will publish a approved unanimously, as was a resolution to form a non-profit memorial notice at the earliest possible time so you can order association. MAJOR GENERAL your copy. This is a particularly difficult job as the information must be obtained of the FREDERIC H. MILLER, USAF (Ret), Commander 491st from 26 June 1944 to 20 October 1944 presided. and researched from numerous sources. ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOLDED WINGS Hap MIKE FAGEN's Chandler was elected Group Vice-President: Harold Fritzler was continued wife, Margaret passed away, October 6th, 1989 after an extended Is Vice illness. President (West Coast): Mary Louis Aguilar, John Forman, and John Gates have also died, according to Treasurer Gill Rice and Mary Wiley were elected information and Secretary respectively. recently received. Our sincere sympathy to the families of our fallen MEMBERSHIP LAGS comrades and, in particular, to Mike. The 491st "THE RINGMASTERS" is lagging in membership in the Second Air Division Association (357 on Dec 6, The 491st is indebted to 1989). Recruiting new members is an ongoing, high priority group task. ALLAN BLUE, brother of Malcolm "Cap" Blue, first to Our pal: die on our first mission, for EVERY MEMBER GET A MEMBER. How about 600 on the rolls by his outstanding "History of the 491st Bombardment reunion time in October? Group (H)." His exceptional account was first published in the American Aviation FLASH: Evelyn Cohen Historical Society Journal Summer and Fall 1964 edtions. Through the good efforts November report. advises that our membership has dropped to 326 since the of BYRON CALAMORIS we have been able to obtain reprints from the original GREEN RINGMASTER JACKETS AAIIS plates. Copies are available for $8.00 from Harold Frizler. Harold Due to the good efforts of Colonel Fritzler, 1130 SW Chestnut Drive, Portland, OR 97219 is in charge of our DICK JOHNSON, Executive Secretary. USAF MUSEUM FOUNDATION,our 491st history is now on sale at the USAF Museum 10' bookstore. q411 ROBERT E. (Bob) SWEET, 701 Karen Court, Decatur, IL 62526 checked in from Kennesaw, Ga., north of Atlanta. Bob's daughter lives there. Bob is recovering from a recent bout with cancer. After the January 5, 1945 crash Bob tells me he can take anything. Ask Fritzler! NIJMEGEN, HOLLAND 17 SEP 44: How many of you went low level dropping supplies to the 82nd Airborne? This was the largest airborne operation of World War II, documented by the movie and book "A Bridge Too Ear." General Miller has furnished twenty photos from his private collection, most of which have never been published. These will be included in a special edition of the LOG devoted to this memorable mission. Those who participated are urged to send their recollections to us for publication. 25 AUGUST, 1944; Schwerin, Germany Luftwaffe Base. The 491st was cited for a perfect bombing pattern in "Target Victory," Second Air Division weekly summary. 14 OCTOBER, 1944: V-2 incident. Although North Pickenham was not in "buzz bomb alley" one of these early cruise missiles passed near the base and reportedly crashed nearby. Anyone remember? COL. WILLIAM M. (Bill) SHY, 454 St. George's Court, Satellite Beach, FL 32937 writes from retirement. Bill was 855th Operations Officer, and, from May 44 "The to June 45, Group Operations. He had a long and distinguished career in the Strategic Great One" consorts with Diamond Lil. Air Command retiring in February 1970. 7 The Original Porta-Potti by Michael J. Donahue

The 448th B.G. - Those Black on Yellow Fellows by G.J. Irish As we enter into this very promising decade of the 90's, may I wish all of our 2nd Air Division people more exciting and fulfilling years ahead and a continuing commitment to our unique fellowship. As we pursue our various endeavors, may we all enjoy excellent C-V-U on our targets. The 448th has grown in membership and stature during the 1980's. Excellent leader- ship along with dedicated members have seen much accomplished and projected goals attained. Much credit must be given to Leroy Engdahl, who has been our 448th V.P. for the past seven years. He has not only worked tirelessly on increasing our It was the day before my next scheduled terrifies me. As I sit at my radio table membership in the 448th and the Second from a contemplating my next move, the thought mission that I returned to Hardwick Air Division Association, but has been the three-day pass. Hardwick was one of the comes to me to call Capt. Spencer, the prime mover in establishing permanent fourteen heavy bombardment B-24 airfields pilot, on the intercom, explain the predica- memorials both at our USAF museum in of the Second Air Division, and the home ment I'm in, and maybe he will feel sorry Dayton. Ohio, and at Station #146 and of the 93rd Bomb Group. While on this for me and land the bomber at the nearest Seething village in England. The tower marvelous leave I did my best to consume friendly Luftwaffe airbase, just long restoration on our old airfield was one of all of the greasy fish and chips and bath tub enough for me to go to the bathroom. Or his primary goals and with the help and gin there was in London. maybe I could just bail out and find an dedication of our many English friends, we On the following day, sick to my stomach outhouse somewhere on the ground. have a bit of American history preserved for posterity. The English staff of our and suffering with a bad case of diarrhea, I Realizing what the consequences would Station #146 Association has collected in a bomber formation at be if we did such a thing, I must resort to find myself flying much 448th memorabilia and reports that 25,000 feet, heading to bomb a target in some other means to solve my problem. open-house days have found many visitors Munich, Germany. The mission will last Then it dawns on me to look in the radio impressed with these reminders of our approximately seven hours, that is of course operator's manual for a possible solution. presence on that site those many years ago. if we get back to England in one piece. The Swiftly thumbing through the pages of the To our many new members, may I invite exhaust fumes of the auxilliary motor and manual, I came to a section called you to join with us as we get together in the slow roll of the plane help to increase "Disposal, Care and Treatment of Debris 1990 and into the future. The 448th fellows the nausea I feel in my stomach. Under and Human Waste." Under the heading of will be congregating in Tucson, Arizona, stories, attack by fighters and flak, I am so ill I Human Waste, the manual states, "If the April 5th through April 8th, to tell look at flying machines, discount could care less as to what is going on bomber you are flying in has no toilet count or calories, pay attention to our ladies, preen around me. Finally I can no longer hold the facilities and it's too cold and breezy to at cameras and enjoy our comradeship once back the bombastic urge to relieve the mess stick your bare bottom out of the open again. Cater Lee will have complete details that churns in my stomach. With oxygen bomb bay or camera hatch, the smartest our activities, where and when, posted off mask and earphones set aside, I scramble to thing to do if you cannot control your diar- to all members before this issue goes to the seclusion of the bomb bay and let her rhea is to reach for the nearest available press. He will again be asking for an up-to- go. It's very embarrassing and unbefitting a container, and that would be the steel date personal profile to add to our 448th Tech Sergeant serving in the Air Force to be helmet or flak helmet that sits on the top of roster. Also at Tucson, I will have a report capable of such an act. God bless the your head." on details of our Second Air Division return ground crew who had to clean up this mess, I have heard of the many other functions to England for our reunion this coming July. Congratulations are in order to one of just another one of their thankless duties. that the old steel helmet has performed in our members. Richard Kennedy of our With my stomach problems on hold, the the service of its country, but being used as 448th was nominated and elected as B-24 worst is about to hit the fan. The diarrhea I a human waste receptical on a heavy Executive Vice President of our Second Air mentioned previously is about to explode. bomber in flight is a first. So I am going to Division Association at Hilton Head Island, The urge is so great I must act soon. With chalk up another use for the old helmet and South Carolina. He will move up to Presi- no toilet aboard I am at a loss of what to call it "The Original Porta-Potti." dent of the Association in 1991 and I am do. The thoughts of going around with a (A first? Guess again, old buddy! — Ed.) sure our 448th people will give him much load in my pants for the rest of the trip support as he moves us towards our goals. See you in Tucson! 8 Second Air Division Association Born 1948 Still Thriving in 1990 by Jordan Uttal

ladies for the benefit of the Librarian Vice Presidents have played a prominent Drive.) role in this achievement. At our first Convention we adopted a set So we started in Chicago with a nucleus of by-laws establishing ourselves as a non- of Headquarters personnel which has profit veterans organization chartered in expanded to include all of our units. We Illinois. Our original objectives were to have had 42 Convention/Reunions, nine of perpetuate the friendships and associations them in Chicago, six in Norwich, five in made during our 2nd Air Division service in Washington D.C., two in New York City, the ETO in World War II, and to advocate and others in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia, an effective military establishment. It was Colorado, North Carolina, South Carolina, our feeling at the time that the Memorial to Tennessee, Texas, Massachusetts, Califor- which we had subscribed was in competent nia, and New Jersey. Norwich is scheduled hands, and so it was and always has been. It for 1990 and Michigan for 1991. wasn't until 1952 that we learned that we The conventions in Norwich, each of could be of help, and from that time on our them have been memorable demonstrations most important objective was to support in of the wonderful friendship that has every way we could, the dedicated and endured between the people of East Anglia devoted efforts of the Board of Governors and those of us who served there, who were of the Memorial Trust of 2nd Air Division privileged to partake of their hospitality USAAF, in Norwich. To each of our and affection. British friends in Norwich who have served Every organization has to have leader- on the Board, and to our friends at the ship. We have had 34 individuals who have Library who have maintained our Memorial served as President these past 42 years. It is Room, we owe our unending gratitude. sad indeed that six of them have passed Those of you who have visited the 2nd Air away. Those of you who knew them, At our last Convention, our 42nd, in Division Memorial know what a splendid Howard Moore, John Cunningham, Percy Hilton Head, S.C., November 1989, several achievement it represents. Young, John Karoly, Dick Clough, and people suggested another up-date on how In June 1963, our Convention in Nor- Ken Darney, will remember them fondly. we came into being and what we are all wich was for the dedication of the 2nd Air Our Presidents have represented many about. I remembered that three of us who Division Memorial, and what a memorable different job assignments during our days were in at the beginning collaborated on ceremony it was. Those of us who were for- in England. Twelve of them were Pilots, such an effort in a 1951 Journal, and as a tunate enough to attend it, and any of the four of them Radio Operators/Engineers/ result of similar requests I contributed an subsequent Norwich Conventions in 1972, Gunners, a Division Bombardier, a Group update in the June 1976 Journal, and Bill 1975, 1979, 1983 and 1987, have become Bombardier, a Group Navigator, a Division Robertie added some thoughts of his own in even more convinced of the importance of Chaplain, and all kinds of Ground Person- March 1980. our primary mission, the support of our nel. They have ranged in ranks from The advisability of such a review hit Memorial to the 6,397 who gave their lives, Corporal to Major General and served with home when I noted in my 1976 piece that we and as far as I am concerned, to all of us 12 different Groups and Headquarters. had grown, at that time, from the original who served. Over the years, particularly And, always backing them up we have had 100 or so members to 2,300 in June 1976. since the early 1970s, donations from you in Association Officers, Group Vice Presi- Hey, people, as I write this in January 1990 the form of money and books have enabled dents, ever-changing Executive we and an are over 7,500 strong, and we hope this the Board of Governors to expand the use Committee. Also since 1972 we have been will be of interest to the newer members. and purpose of the Memorial to the point represented on the Board of Governors of Seven of us at a party in 1946, in where it is a Living Memorial such as no the Trust. Chicago, had such a good time that we other sponsored by an American military Regardless of what these people did dur- decided to try to reach as many of our old unit. It is a "window on America" as it was ing the war, or what their military rank may friends as we could for a real reunion. All originally intended to be, a Memorial have been, each of them has served all of we had to work with was a 2AD Head- originally funded by 2nd Air Division us, keeping us together, keeping us zeroed quarters Roster. Working with that alone, personnel, supported almost exclusively by on we in our objectives — to keep the flame had our first convention on 1 October former 2nd Air Division personnel, and burning — to keep the memory alive — to 1948, in Chicago. Former 2nd Air Division administered by our friends who have remember. And now your Association colleagues came from coast to coast and served as Governors of the Memorial Trust leadership is exerting every effort to border to border. This convinced us that we of 2nd Air Division USAAF. accomplish the Last Mission we took on to were on the right track. Going back to the beginning, our original ensure the perpetuation of our objectives by It was a happy accident that while we charter made eligible for membership funding an American Librarian and a ,vere having our second Convention, again anyone who served with any of the units of British serve our under In Aide to Memorial Chicago, in October 1949 that the WAC the 2nd Air Division in England in WWII. the direction of the Board of Governors, contingent was also having a reunion. We This included the 14 Bomber Groups and and we hope with the support of our found out about it, asked them to join us, the 5 Fighter Groups, enlisted and Officer Heritage League on this side, and the and you all know how we have benefited personnel, and any civilian Associates, Red Friends of the 2nd Air Division Memorial in from the continuing participation of these Cross, civil servants, etc. From the very England. ladies, with Evelyn Cohen as our long time beginning we tried to reach personnel from Be proud of what you have achieved!!! Membership and Convention Chair, and all all the groups. Our growth was slow, but we the There can be nothing finer than this expres- other WACs who are loyal members are proud of the fact that we have achieved and sion we have made of mutual respect, tireless workers. (And those of us who the numbers we have, and that even today, friendship, and affection for each other and were at Hilton Head will never forget the every couple of weeks there is a "new our fellow 2nd Air Division personnel who beautiful quilt made and raffled off by our member" report from Evelyn. The Group did not come back with us. 9 Swan Song Second Air Division Association Annual Banquet Remarks by C.N. Chamberlain at Hilton Head Island, S.C., November 4, 1989 the binoculars, so to speak. Let's examine have a project which is just now reaching the what we have built since 1945 — not since point, nearly 45 years later, where it is begin- 1988! ning to meet fully its original purposes. With the war winding down in Europe in Its potential is even greater. So, we must 1945, our Division Commander, General put the machinery in place, now, for the Kepner, placed the conceptual cornerstone continued growth needed to realize that to the building I have in mind. To those potential. As our hands weaken from toil remaining in the 2nd AD, he appealed for and age, others must soon be provided. funds to erect a memorial to those who died. That part of the building task also has He said, "...it will be a memorial of living begun with the formation of the Heritage spiritual significance..." League of the 2nd Air Division, USAAF; He also said, "...Together we have built with the establishment of the Friends of the the 2nd Air Division into one of the greatest 2nd Air Division Memorial, USAAF; and, aerial striking forces in history. Together, let with the apparent success of "our last us build this fitting memorial to its officers mission" to provide a full time American and men who have sacrificed their lives to interpreter and library aide at the Memorial. overthrow the enemies of our country in Other building opportunities will appear order that the ideals of our American in good time. But, meanwhile, we must democracy, and indeed all democracy, shall maintain the inertia because a living endure..." memorial must progress if it is to live. And, so, this vision is paying off. It is Therefore, my parting shot to all of you, there for all to see. with respect to our unique project, is an Later, in 1947, another cornerstone was appeal to maintain a positive, creative and placed when the 2nd Air Division Associa- building frame of mind and to consider the tion was formed. A few veterans of the following from an anonymous but wise poet: Now is the time for a swan song. legacy described by General Kepner gathered "I watched them tearing a building down, Webster's defines "swan song" as a farewell in the U.S. to form an association of a gang of men in a busy town...with a 'ho- appearance or final act or pronouncement. common interests. From less than 100 2AD heave-ho' and hearty yell. They swung a With great regret, that is what I am about to veterans, the Association has been built to beam and a side wall fell. I asked the do. one approaching 8,000 members. foreman, 'Are these men skilled? The kind Normally, one might reasonably expect As time went by, these two monuments — you'd hire if you wanted to build?' He such an act to address, solely, the term of the memorial and our association — laughed and answered, `No, indeed, just office in question — the last 16 months or rediscovered each other. The result has been common labor is all I need. And I can easily so. But, tonight, I want to take a longer a long but steady maturing to where we are wreck in a day or two what builders have view. I want to talk about building and not, today. taken years to do.'" simply, about adding another brick to the Many hands have placed the timber, brick Thanks for your trust. wall. I want to look through the other end of and marble of what has been built here. We Let's keep building! Thanks for the Memories Change of Address Hilton Head by nomination and election to the office of Honorary President of the When you move please send your change of Association. I am extremely grateful for address to: this recognition, one that is provided for in Evelyn Cohen our by-laws, but only used once before 06-410 Delaire Ldg. Rd. when General Kepner was elected to that Philadelphia, PA 19114 office in 1949. I will exert every effort to on the form below as soon as possible. To perform creditably in my new office. send the change to anyone else (Bill Rober- My colleagues on the Board of Gover- tie or Group VP) simply delays the change nors of the Memorial Trust have graciously appearing on our records. This could mean responded to my resignation from their that the next issue of the Journal will go to your old address and could be lost in the midst. I am advised that at the latest great jaws of the Post Office. meeting of the Board, in Norwich on 8 December 1989, I was further honored by being elected as an Honorary Life Gover- CHANGE OF ADDRESS nor. I join in that category Lady Beryl Mayhew, Gen. Milton Arnold, and Lt. Col. Ion Walker, all of whom were original Founder Governors of the Trust in 1945. name As I wrote to the Governors in my letter ... AND PARTICULARLY, as I said in of resignation, "I cherish the memory of my last "About the Memorial" column, for our efforts together in the interests of the address your support of the many projects for 2nd Air Division Memorial." which I came to you for help on behalf of To all of you, here and abroad, I extend city, state, zip our 2nd Air Division Memorial. my affection, my respect, and my most Little did I know as I wrote those words sincere thanks for the honors bestowed on group in mid-October, that within a couple of me. GOD BLESS! weeks after that, I would be honored at — Jordan R. Uttal 10 this goal can be achieved by the time we together in 45 years. meet in England next July. I was very pleas- ed to see that the 44th BG has jumped from Paul Gregg has been trying to get them to 1 1 th place to 5th place in the number of join the 2ADA and "Smoke" is now a checks and pledges submitted. (See Winter member but not the other two. Maybe 1989 Journal.) If you have not sent in your seeing their picture in the Journal will spur contribution yet, please consider doing so them on. Shake 'em up, Paul. NOW. Remember, ANY AMOUNT IS W.E. "Joe" Simons wrote to thank me ACCEPTABLE. for the item used in the Fall 1989 8-Ball We were all disappointed that Ardith and column inquiring about an original 8-Ball by H.C. 'Pete' Henry Dick Butler could not attend the mini- patch. He received one from H.C. Russell, reunion dinner on Thursday night. Dick Jr. (68th Sq.) who flew on Harold We had about 46 44thers, spouses, and was rushed to the hospital after playing in Slaughter's crew and Chas. Kuch's (deceas- offspring Convention at the 2ADA in the 2ADA golf tournament (not related to ed) crew. Now, how do I get one? November attending and twelve were their his problem) and had to have surgery over It was with great sorrow that I read eight first. records, they were: According to my the weekend. His 1 December letter advises names under the "Folded Wings" column Charles and Armstrong; Milly Ed and that they arrived home safely 22 November in the Winter 1989 Journal. Merritt Derr Kathryn Clark; Tom and Katherine Currie; and he is feeling OK now. wrote to tell me about Charles J. Brown Jim and Mike Ruth Gratta; and lone It was a delight to have six members of who suffered a heart attack during the B-24 Hause; Art and Mary Kleiderer. We were the Marvin Kite family present at the mini- celebration in Fort Worth, was hospitalized sorry that Bernard Glettler had to cancel in reunion dinner, but here too, unpleasant there for two weeks, returned to Melborne, late August and Sam and Jenece Howard news followed. Marvin's wife, Doris, was FL but never fully recovered and died 17 had to cancel at the last minute. Also, if I convention went September. A former subscribing member am not feeling well at the and correct, this is the first time Charles to see her doctor as soon as they got home. of the 2ADA, Christopher McCue, advised Hughes Armstrong (66 Sq.) and Charles (66 The result was open heart surgery on 16 me that Miles J. McCue (67th Sq.), his Sq.) have seen each other since 1945. November with five bypasses. Marvin's brother, died 19 September. Miles was also letter of 7 December advises that she is a former member of the 2ADA. doing well and they are certain that Doris Before signing off, I'd like to thank the will dance at our banquet in Norwich, 30 many 44thers who sent greeting cards to July '90. Mary and me for the holidays. We do appreciate them and it is always good to Paul Gregg (66 Sq.) wrote in October to hear from you. You don't have to wait until advise that he had a reunion with three the end of the year to write, you know. others on his crew last June at Clear Lake, We're always happy to hear from you and CA. It was the first time they've been can use new material for this column.

Charles Hughes (66th Sq.) and Charles Armstrong (66th Sq.) together for the first time since WWII.

At our mini-reunion dinner on Thursday night 2 November, the troops asked me to leave the room while they conducted a little business on their own. When I returned, Goodman Griffin handed me a $252 con- tribution (collected from those present) for the 2AD Memorial Room/American Librarian Fund and instructed me to pre- The Kite Family: Philip, Marvin, Doris, Timothy, Bonnie, Melanie sent it to Jordan Uttal in my name. I was quite taken by this gesture of friendship, as those of you who were present at the Business Meeting may have noted when the check was presented to Jordan. They also re-elected me to be your Group Vice Presi- dent for another year, and I say thanks to one and all. .While on the subject of the American Librarian Fund, an analysis of contribu- tions to date was presented at the Executive Committee meeting by Jordan Uttal and over 100 44thers have sent in checks or Pledges.(Many thanks to those of you who r esponded to my 1 August '89 letter to 44th BG veterans. If you did not receive a copy, Please send me a note and I'll send one to You-) We have not quite reached 5007o of the (14): Wylie C. Hubbard, navigator; Paul Gregg, waist gunner; T.H. $22,500 Group target and it is hoped that "Smoke" Daily, pilot; Tom Reeves, engineer

11 458th Bomb Group by Rick Rokicki

AMERICAN LIBRARIAN FUND DRIVE On January 19th I met Jordan Uttal at BWI Airport, Baltimore, and drove him to Good Samaritan Hospital (a Johns Hopkins orthopedic facility) for his knee surgery on the 22nd. As of this date, Jan. 27, Jordan has responded well and has been able to take 2 steps! It's great progress and although it will take a few more weeks of therapy, he feels good about having both knees replaced. Here is some of the latest news regarding the 458th's progress in the Special Funding. Our "numbers" are as follows, good news first: TOTAL: Rick Rokicki, Bud Chamberlain and Ceil Rokicki, receiving plaque $21,733. This includes the $4,795 reported in the Summer '89 at Hilton Head Island Reunion Journal as the original amount our group gave. We were then in 5th place with number of contributions. I then sent out a special appeal letter to those who hadn't contributed and the response was so NORWICH REUNION great that we were in FIRST PLACE! As of January 4th, we had It appears that we will have a total of 149 at the Norwich 15.4% of all donors, plus an additional 8 pledges. As of this date, Reunion in July. Received a photo from Gary Bradford (friend of although we have more contributors than any other Group, we are Lou Haley and "staunch ally" of the 458th) showing the Airport in SECOND place with total DOLLAR contributions. The Ambassador Hotel under construction. response of the appeal letter and Winter column totaled almost Graham Savill has an excellent program for us on our "Salute to $7,000 and closer to goal. In any event, we are doing extremely the Villages" on Sunday, July 29. The schedule I've seen looks well, and I hope that I shall be able to report that we've reached our terrific. We are indeed lucky to have both Graham and June work- goal in my next column. The Group to which we are second in ing with us. dollar contributions had a single contributor of $15,000, which DAYTON REUNION simply overpowered us. The 458th will have its second Group reunion in Dayton, Ohio The above shows about 30% participation, and by all counts, next September. Dates are Friday, September 21 to Sunday, we've done very well. I personally am extremely pleased with your September 23, 1990. We also plan an Early Bird check-in on Thurs- generosity, and if I ever get a list of contributors, I will personally day evening. Registration, cash bar and buffet dinner on Friday. thank each and every one of you for your help in meeting our Buffet breakfast, Air Museum and Memorial, cash bar and dinner obligations. So please, do what you can to get the 458th "over the on Saturday. Sunday includes departure breakfast and check-out. I top!" It will also spare you all from hearing me sounding off hesitate to give costs so early, but it appears rooms will be about somewhat like a TV preacher, continually asking for more $50.00 per night, and registration for all events about $60.00 per money...yet, still, again, etc. person. So far, we have about 40 who have said "rain or shine, I'm SQUADRON INSIGNIAS comm." Ceil and I plan to visit Duke & Doris Trivette next month There has been an excellent response from those who quickly and try to finalize the reunion costs. On the basis of our 1987 ordered squadron insignias. As of this date (Jan. 27) I have the reunion, we will have 150 rooms set aside for us. Any questions following left: 752nd-4, 753rd-24, 754th-9, 755th-14. I had all should be directed to "Duke" Trivette, 1791 Utica Drive, Dayton, insignias at Hilton Head except the 753rd, which accounts for the Ohio 45439. larger number left. If you haven't as yet ordered your squadron TAILWINDS "patch," I suggest you do so as soon as possible, because I doubt if Our Hilton Head Island 2ADA reunion last November was a there will be any more reordered. Any profits realized from these tremendous success with about 1500 attending. Having the B-24 sales will go into the previously mentioned Special Library Fund. 1 "All American" was a special highlight and enjoyed by all. We had received a photo from George Reynolds who framed the insignias 134 plus several who just "dropped in" to see if any of their friends as shown in the photo. were there. Richard Moore responded to J. DiIlen of Belgium regarding "Little Lambsey Divey." Tony North advised me that Mike Bailey had suffered a heart attack late last year, and subse- quent correspondence with Mike advises that he is recovering and still able to paint. Good thing too, since Mike is doing another painting for our planned "Re-Dedication" at the Airport Terminal! Harold Lambousy mentioned that the "wartime popula- tion" of Crowley, LA (11,000) had 3 other POWs along with him in Stalag Luft IV ...others were airmen from other bases! Received word from George Ferrell that Art Hendrickson had passed on late last year. Sent the Group's sympathy to his widow. New members as follows: James Graham, CA; Melvin Keim, PA; Luther Carl Williams, VA; Wesley Harper, AZ; Arthur Kaltenbach, OH; G.B. Ellyson, IA; Lawrence Dean, TN; Gerard Guerette, FL. Ceil and I were honored with a plaque presentation by Bud Chamberlain (received it from George Reynolds) who had it made expressing the Group's thanks for our efforts over the last 10 years. Our thanks to all, and we will continue to do all 458th "on Four Bomb Squadrons of the 458th in display case by George possible to keep the Reynolds top." 12 Report on Our Memorial Trust by Bud Koorndyk

With the plaque erected in Bethel Street, To begin my stay as a Governor, I would success of our Memorial Trust and the Norwich, England in 1948, recording the like to stress the importance of good com- Memorial Room that it supports, and for original cash contribution from the munications, which many of us have found the positive impact it can have on the American Forces on the Norwich bases and to be the cornerstone of a successful hearts, minds and lives of generations to the intention to open a Memorial Library, business career. Good communications can follow. began the process of the 2nd Air Division only result in a healthy and dynamic rela- To accomplish this goal, we should bear Association's goal of having a Memorial tionship between our 2nd Air Division in mind that we are a last man organization Library Room and Fountain erected as part Association and the Board of Governors of and our American Room in the Central of the Norwich Central Library. the Memorial Trust of the 2nd Air Division Library will have to maintain continued This facility was and is today funded by Association. interest in its existence by other than men the Memorial Trust of the 2nd Air Division As good communications can accomplish who fought side by side as allies for the Association, in memory of the 6,397 com- this goal, poor communications can be preservation of our individual liberties dur- rades lost in the defense of our country devastating. Consequently, I see my role as ing World War II. during World War II. the American Representative on the Board The 2nd Air Division Association and the As I begin my term of being honored by of Governors as striving with all my ability Board of Governors of the Memorial Trust being appointed as a member of the Board to be a good communicator. of the 2nd Air Division USAAF are both of Governors of the Memorial Trust of the I would stress that in this position, I see dedicated in this task of devoting our 2nd Air Division in Norwich, England, I myself as a person wearing two hats; the energies towards this goal. would like to express my appreciation for first hat being that of a spokesman and For all who have contributed towards our the confidence shown by our Association in liaison person from the 2nd Air Division goal of raising $500,000 for the Memorial nominating me to this position. Association, conveying not my personal Library Trust Fund, I wish to convey, as To be able to follow in the footsteps of opinions but rather the opinions of the your Governor, my heartfelt thanks and Jordan Uttal, our retired Governor, is Association as outlined by its President and urge those who have not as yet contributed indeed an ominous task. I, as well as the Executive Committee in matters concerning to please give this worthy cause your serious membership at large, owe him a well deserv- policy and procedural matters. consideration. ed hand for a job well done. Wearing the second hat requires that I Jordan Uttal informs me that as of the At my request, Jordan has offered to retain an open mind as to the viewpoints 31st of December, 1989, we have total serve as Chairman of our Memorial and opinions expressed by the Board of receipts of $340,000. Let us all do our Librarian Fund Drive for $500,000 and for Governors as it relates to the long range utmost to complete this one last mission for the continual updating of the Roll of Honor position and future success of our all our departed comrades. A complete which is located in the Memorial Room of Memorial in the Norwich Central Library. report on our Memorial Trust Fund Drive the Norwich Central Library. All contribu- We all must continually bear in mind that by Jordan Uttal can be found elsewhere in tions for the fund drive should be sent to both organizations, although separated by this Journal. Jordan Uttal, 7824 Meadow Park Drive oceans and cultures, have a common mind #101, Dallas, Texas 75230. and common interest for the continued Report to the 489th Bomb Group by James M. Davis Although reports on the Hilton Head interest in having a separate group reunion At our group dinner, we were honored by Reunion will be given in other articles in the in addition to the Second AD Reunion. Jim the attendance of some of our friends from Journal, I would like to take the opportuni- Pace, Chairman of the Committee for Halesworth, England — Paddy and Jan ty to congratulate the Second Air Division Possible Group Memorials, informed us Cox and Tony and Marlene Kerrison. and especially the 489th BG for a really concerning the situation at the Air Force Perhaps the highlight of the evening was outstanding reunion. Although the 489th is Academy in Colorado Springs as well as the the presentation of two checks made up by only 5/34 of the Second Air Division Air Museum at Dayton, Ohio. Jim's report the donations of the group membership to Association membership, we had an indicated that we would encounter prob- Charles Freudenthal in appreciation of his unbelievable 12% of the attendance at the lems and complications at both places. tireless efforts for the group over the many reunion. I believe this might have been the Because of the lack of space at each loca- years. We appreciate you, Charlie! largest attendance of any group. tion, neither could give us any idea as to The Nominating Committee, made up of Congratulations to all the members for when space would be available or how Bud Chamberlain, Don Champagne, and such strong support and attendance. My much it would cost. Fred Meyers, recommended the following own observations was that this was a most Because of the uncertain situation and slate of officers for next year: Vice Presi- outstanding reunion in every respect. the small interest in a separate reunion, the dent, Jim Davis; Asst. Vice President, Perhaps one of, if not the best, ever! Much decision was made to put each of these pro- Charles Freudenthal; Treasurer, Ralph credit for the success was due to the great jects "on the back burner." I would like to Belward; Secretary, Otey Berkeley. The leadership of our own Bud Chamberlain, thank Bill Wilkerson and his committee of suggested slate was voted on and carried who served as Second Air Division Associa- Raymond Blanchard and Morgan Higham; unanimously. The secretary was a new posi- tion President this past year and did an and Jim Pace and his committee of Bob tion added this year. outstanding job. Many thanks, Bud! And Thomas and Don Champagne. Both of I would like to suggest that to we all keep in you, Mike! these committees did much research and a mind the need for continued donations and The group mini-reunion dinner on Thurs- thorough job. support for the Memorial Trust of the day evening overflowed the dining room, Neil Sorenson paid tribute to Charles Second Air Division USAAF. We have but we overcame most problems. Ralph Freudenthal for all the work he has done reached approximately 7007o of the pro- lward, Treasurer, gave his report on the over the years for the 489th and especially posed Trust. If you have not made your group's financial status as well as a report his work in getting the group history book on pledge or contribution, please do so as soon orders for the Group History Book. We ready for publishing. We thank you too, as possible. appreciate you, Ralph, for a job well done. Neil, for your effort and for lending your It has been an excellent year for the Bill Wilkerson, Chairman of the Com- professional experience in the publication Second Air Division Association and espec- mittee for a Separate Reunion, gave his of the book. From the 489th, Charlie and ially the 489th BG. Such a great group of report which indicated there is very little Neil, "Thank You!" people! It is a privilege to be a member. 13 389th Sky Scorpions by Gene Hartley We had some 145 persons listed with the original briefing material on the Ploesti raid. future, on behalf of the 389th Bomb Group. 389th at the Hilton Head reunion. It is He has provided copies for future use in New black caps with 389th Bomb Group, always good to visit with old friends, make 389th Newsletters. Allan Hallett, newly Hethel, England, printed in gold lettering, new ones, enjoy the renewal of bonds that appointed Assistant Vice President, read the were very visible. Bud K. sold out within the have endured over the years. It is important minutes from our Colorado Springs meeting. first hour. There is no statistical proof, but a to remember, however, that the seventy George Makin conducted the raffle of a general observation seems to indicate that (official members) of us at Hilton Head beautiful stained glass Green Dragon etching gunners, as a group, with emphasis on tail, constitute only about 1007o of our 389th provided by Earl Zimmerman. The raffle have gained the most weight since 1945. membership. We who were there salute those raised $300.00. A get well card was circulated Competition in this area is, however, very of you who couldn't be with us, whatever the for signature, to be sent to Roy Jonasson, intense. reason. Santa Maria, CA, formerly a Tech Sergeant Stuart Main, of Lotus, and his wife in supply, who has been a past attendant at Although covered in more depth elsewhere Margaret were with us from Norwich. He many reunions. Chris Christensen, once one in this issue of the Journal, we of the 389th reported that the 389th Memorial of the base engineers, is doing research for a Room in would be remiss if we did not mention our the Hethel tower now has book dealing with aspects of the 389th in "a beautiful new pleasure in the nomination of Bud Koorndyk door." He emphasized the England. Stuart Main brought with him a that room as Second Air Division Representative, belongs to the 389th, "it is your room." The large (4' x 3') map of Hethel as of 1943. He Board of Governors, Memorial Trust. We room is in need of asked for help in identifying the different an additional display case; are justly proud, especially in light of all the estimated cost, $500.00. Assurance was given work Bud has done for and with our Group. areas of the base. Many, who thought they remembered that the funding was available, and to go We do understand that nomination is not so much, would have had trou- ble ahead and order the case. election, although it is pretty sure. finding their way "home." For some reason, nearly everyone could locate the Old Stuart is our representative on the plan- Bits and pieces gleaned at Hilton Head: Burma Road. Bill Joerin, former flight ning committee for the 1990 reunion in We had three different Driscolls in atten- surgeon, now 81, drove in from San Diego. Norwich. He is active with The Friends of dance: Barney from Richards, Texas; Somehow, I have a pen advertising Elwood the Second Air Division. He is working on Roland from Ocean City, New Jersey; and Lash's Wernersville, PA insurance com- providing a great day at Hethel next summer John (Sean) O'Driscoll from County pany. Dick Peterson arrived with his recently for those in attendance in Norwich, 1990. Limerick, Ireland. Another Atlantic crossing completed photo video history of the 389th. In conclusion, a story from Hilton Head, was that of John Repola from London. He developed a short teaser tape which he gotten from a 1944 Stars and Stripes, Frank Vadas, retiring as Assistant Vice played in the 389th room. He had about 20 about one of the first got President, received a meaningful ovation as tapes with him, sold them all. Three tables, guys back to civilian life, a terrific job, working he accepted a plaque honoring his service to handcrafted of white Indiana oak by Earl in a panty factory, was pulling down 2000 our Group. Geb Gebhard, in digging Zimmerman, will be delivered to the All a month! through old files at home, found pages of Saints Church, Carleton Rode in the near To Members Who Liberator Postal Cover Migrate Each Year:

To add to the Liberator's birthday You "Snowbirds" honors in recognition of its first flight in We want to make sure you receive 1939, a special postal cover was issued on every Journal as timely as possible, at December 29, the date that commemorates whichever address you are occupying at the B-24's maiden flight from Lindbergh the time that issue comes out. As each Field, San Diego. of you depart and return at different The 4-color cachet depicts two bomber times of the year, we can't easily versions of the Liberator in flight. In the program our mailings to match these variations. formation is also the single tail bomber To assure that you called a Privateer and flown by the U.S. receive your Jour- nal, we will be sending your copies Navy in the Pacific. The illustration is by by first class mail hereafter, to take advan- Roy Gjertson, award-winning cachet artist tage of the Post Office requirement and aviation artist. that they forward all first class mail Stamps affixed on the first 500 covers immediately. Under our present third included the 1942 3' WIN THE WAR class mail permit, mail is not forwar- stamp (905) and a contemporary 22' flag ded; we must re-mail it, thus wasting stamp. The cover is available for $2.00 each time and money. with a stampedself-addressed #10 envelope. The cover stamps bear the Dec. 20 USPS 445th Squadron cancellation. For sale from each of the following: Patches Available 1989 was the year of the Liberator, the San Diego Aerospace Museum I have 20 each of all 4 squadrons in four-engine airplane with the unique slim 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park original size and colors. The price is wing, a wide barn-like body and two very San Diego, CA 92101 $8.50 each. I will be away from 2 to 15 large twin tails. Although it earned outstan- May. Please contact: ding performance honors as a versatile Liberator Club Jim Young workhorse aircraft, it came in second in P.O. Box 15-2424 714 Broadway popularity with the press and public. San Diego, CA 92115 McKees Rocks, PA 15136 14 early October. Puff Pugh has been named Project Officer and is reviewing available Omaha area facilities and activities prior to recommending a reunion headquarters and program of events. Over the years we've recognized the historical value and impor- tance of both the 2nd ADA's Memorial Room and Library and its Video History Project. To further such efforts to preserve the history alcomen, of the 2nd Air Division and its members and to honor those who died, our Board of Directors has by Jack Stevens made contributions in the name of the 467th Bomb Group (H) Association to the Memorial Room Librarian Fund and the Barksdale AFB Air Museum. All members I am honored to represent the 467th Bomb Group and, following are encouraged to support entities such as these which perpetuate in the footsteps of my predecessors, I promise to continue supporting wartime friendships and preserve wartime records and memorabilia. the objectives of the 2nd ADA. As time passes and our numbers decrease, each of us should give Jeff Gregory, 467th Project Officer for the reunion in England, serious consideration to gathering his personal wartime records and being mindful of the reunion theme, "We Remember the Villages," memorabilia and donating them to such an entity in the name of his has scheduled a day of activities with Rackheath and Salhouse unit or the 2nd ADA. Many records and memorabilia have already villagers on 29 July to acknowledge their friendship, courtesy, and been lost because storage space was reduced when we moved or a efforts on behalf of the 467th during and since WWII. He reports member's next of kin had no use for the items and didn't know what that we'll meet at Rackheath Air Base to dedicate a memorial marker to do with them. Mrs. Frances Davies, a member of the Memorial's and visit with our British friends. The memorial marker, commis- Board of Governors, is the archivist for the Board and has been sioned by the 467th, will be installed and dedicated at a site on our working on this matter for some time now. former airfield donated by Roger Hastings, son of 2nd ADA I'd like to encourage all members of the 2nd ADA to participate in Memorial Board of Governors member David Hastings. (Historical the Dzenowagis family's efforts to record and preserve their note: Two months after our reunion, England will observe the 50th experiences at and from air bases in England in WWII. After they anniversary of the Battle of Britain.) complete their video interviews and documentaries of the 2nd Air Awards Committee Chairman Bill Dillon is working on a program Division they donate them to the Memorial Library. The USAF is of awards and decorations to recognize individuals who have made considering them for inclusion in all their European base libraries, Special contributions to the 467th through their initiative and efforts. public television stations are planning to broadcast them, and they'll In response to a request by the members at our Fort Worth eventually be placed in the National Archives. For additional infor- meeting, Bob Salzarulo and his reunion committee (Wes Bartelt, mation about this project, which documentaries are available, Ralph Davis, Vince LaRussa, Tony Mans and Puff Pugh)considered and/or to schedule an interview, contact: Joseph G. Dzenowagis, several cities before recommending two for the site of a group 4397 South Okemos Road, Okemos, MI 48864. reunion in 1990(following the 2nd ADA Reunion at Norwich). From On behalf of all members of the 467th, best wishes to all members those two, the Board selected Omaha with the reunion to be held in of the 2nd Air Division Association. Mission to Bremen, Germany, December 20, 1943 by Hubert F. Radford I was bombardier on the Frank Rezek and could not contact the tail gunner. Our the name "WRABLIK." As soon as he Crew of the 409th Squadron, 93rd Bomb waist gunners reported that he was slumped came in, I knew that he was our long lost Group. We had already made one mission over in his turret and had probably been tail gunner. He remembers trying to get his to Bremen on December 16, 1943, just four hit. I took a "walk around" oxygen bottle guns unfrozen but that his hands were so days earlier, so we knew we were in for a and went to the tail position taking our cold he could not use them. He tried to call rough time as fighters had been plentiful radio man, Schuil, who was not manning a in but his microphone was out also. He and they were all German. We did have gun, with me. We saw that his oxygen mask remembered getting sleepy and almost doz- Spitfires to escort us over the channel, but was not working and that he was uncon- ing off, which happened due to his oxygen range was not about to reach into scious — so we pulled him out and dragged line being shot into. He remembers at the Germany. This, of course, was a couple of him to the flight deck. We plugged. his hospital that he had been put into a large months before our P-51s, P-47s and P-38s oxygen in but he was not breathing, so we tub of ice water and had his clothing cut off were available to make our flights easier. pried open his mouth and forced oxygen him. He also remembers at one occasion on There would be flak so thick you could down his throat and he started moving and the flight deck that the co-pilot looked at almost walk on it. Flak smoke was not breathing. Rezek noticed that our oxygen him and shook his head in doubt. None of dangerous, but those red centers of the supply was rapidly failing and he alerted us. the crew expected him to survive. I have burst were really dangerous and deadly. He quickly left the formation and dove for included his picture with Rezek and myself We were flying an old and famous B-24 the clouds coming to a flight level of 11,000 to prove it. that day, "Teggie Ann." We flew this plane feet. on five missions. Our crew was made up as We remained in the clouds on instru- follows: Frank J. Rezek, pilot; Bob ments to protect ourselves from fighters. Johnson, co-pilot; John Heisl, navigator; The clouds ran out just before we got to the Hubert Radford, bombardier; Chuck North Sea. Our navigator, Heisl, pointed Bryan, engineer; Harry Schuil, radio out to me that we were still over Germany Operator; Al Hibbert, waist gunner; Fuzzy and I spotted a small town just ahead, Garretson, waist gunner; Tony Radice, ball picked the town up and opened the bomb turret gunner; and a new replacement tail bay doors and dropped my bombs at 100 gunner, Fred Wrablik. Fred was a young feet intervals. We then flew back to Nor- man who had not reached his 18th birth- wich over the North Sea at 50 to 75 feet day. As I remember it, the day started altitude to evade the fighters. I know we Without problems. We took off with, I were a lucky bunch because we made it believe, 500 pound bombs and were to hit O.K. Bremen at 26,500 feet. This meant that the Wrablik, our tail gunner, was still out temperature over the target would be and covered with frostbite but still around — 50 ° to — 55°. breathing. We turned him over to the Just before we reached the target, we medics upon landing, never expecting to see Were hit very badly by flak sounded him again. like that rocks hitting a tin roof. checked all Rezek and I attended gun I the 93rd reunion at (I-r): Frank Rezek, Fred Wrablik, and positions, as was our crew procedure, Dayton, Ohio in July of 1989 and I spotted Hubert Radford. 15 Recognition N

2ADA pin presentation to Cliff Thomas in 2ADA Membership VP Evelyn Cohen receives appreciation for his talk the 2ADA Exceptional Service Award

Recognition Night M.C., Bud Chamberlain

Andy Low receives for 2AD Trust Founder Trust Governor Chairman Tom Eaton receives B/Gen. Milton Arnold the 2ADA President's the 2ADA Exceptional Service Award Award for Leadership

Recognition Night motivational speaker, Cliff Thomas (453rd)

448th veteran George Dupont receives for 2ADA Charter Member, Past Secretary and Anne Brusselmans her honorary membership Newsletter Editor Hathy Veynar receives the in the 2ADA 2ADA Distinguished Service Award

# Outgoing Trust Governor and Past 2ADA Tom Eaton expresses thanks and 2A1)A Newsletter VP and Past President Bill President Jordan Lilal receives the 2ADA brings greetings from the Governors Robertie receives the 2ADA Exceptional Exceptional Service Award Service Award 16 In Night 1989

/1 441

467th Group VP Jack Stevens receives Group Outgoing 467th Group VP Gregory Original Trust Governor Anne Barne receives VP Certificate for Jim Coffey, 467th did the honors as Recognition Night the 2ADA Distinguished Service Award Award Citation Narrator

44th Group VP and 2ADA Past President Pete 2ADA Past President Bud Koorndyk Treasurer Dean Moyer presents to Tom Eaton, Henry receives the 2ADA Distinguished receives the 2ADA Distinguished Trust Governor Chairman, a check for $5,000 Service Award Service Award

Past President Andy Low receives the 2ADA Past President and Nominating 2ADA Past President and Director of Data Distinguished Service Award Committee Chairman Carl Alexan- Processing Services Rick Rokicki receives the derson presents the 1989/90 slate 2ADA Distinguished Service Award

2ADA Past President and Secretary Dave 448th veteran George Dupont receives 445th Group VP Chuck Walker receives Patterson receives the 2ADA Distinguished for heroine Anne Brusselmans the Group VP Certificate for E.O. "Buddy" Service Award 2ADA President's Award for Freedom Cross (445th) 17

- Hilton Head, SC Attendees at 1989 Hilton Head Convention Harold & Doris Bostic Keith & Wanda Chapman/ Terry & Mattie Sather 44th Bomb Group Oscar & Edith Boudreaux Ken DiMarzo Ben & Hildred Schlosser Charles & Millie Armstrong Charles & Joanne Campbell Carroll & Mabel Cheek Joe & Ann Skomro Jean & Gloria Bressler Charles Cavage Jim & Jeanette Conley George & Barbara Snook Dick & Ardith Butler Chris & Eleanor Christensen John & Wanda Conrad Jerry & Patricia Steinhauer Ed & Kathryn Clark Gaynell Clark Charles & Helen Dye Joe & Catherine Swanick Tom & Katherine Currie Jim & Ava Collins Art & Teddy Egan W.M. & Sara Ruth Thompson Bob & Irma Dubowsky Jack & Helen Cox Herman & Bessie Mae Garner Web & Helen Uebelhoer Mike & Kaye Fusano Charles & Gennie Dearing Gil & Marjie Gilbert John & Marie Vessels Jim & Ruth Gratta Barney, Emme and Jim & Virginia Goar Chuck Walker Grill & Bobbie Griffin Jennifer Driscoll Ben Jones Floyd & Virginia Walker Mike & lone Hause Roland & Doris Driscoll Jack & Betty Jones Joe & Ann Weckesser Bill Hawkins Reuben & Mary Lou Duke Bill & ReneIla Jurczyn Don & Billie Whitefield Pete & Mary Henry Ray & Barbara Fender Myron & Blanche Keilman Elden & Patricia Zink Charlie & Marilyn Hughes Tom & Madelyn Garrison Bob & Marilyn Lane Bob & Roberta Johnson Geb & Betty Gebhard Larry & Claire Lassins 446th Bomb Group Marv, Doris, Philip, Melanie, Dot Gibson J.D. & Emily Long Bob & Mary Alexander Timothy and Bonnie Kite Elliott & Norma Graff Bob & Ruth Powers John & Kay Faulds Arthur & Mary Kleiderer Ed Griffin Ray & Stephanie Reid Mary & Mary Finger Harry Lemond Allan & Jean Hallett Dave & Betty Scott Henry & Edie Gibson Will & Irene Lundy Gene, Nancy & Lance Hartley Guy & Madeleine Spinelli H.R. & Barbara Jones Ray & Mary McNamara Bruce Helmer Lou & Delores Stephens John & Helen Kinney Loy & Arlene Neeper Joe Holub Fred Thomas Harold & Lillian Maslyn Bill & Hazel Robertie Bill & Cindy Isaacs Joe & Ginnie Tierney Harold Minnick Walt & Dot Yost Bill Joerin Emuel & Elinor Vassey Ted & Barbara Nichols Mike & Rose Yuspeh John & Lorraine Kane Joe & Mary Westbrook John & Helen Patton Walt & Judy Ketron Stan & Millie Zybort Jim & Avonell Pickett 93rd Bomb Group Don & Shirley Kinard Dan & Lillie-Bell Ragan Jim & Dot Adams Don & Lucille King 445th Bomb Group Ernie & Betty Reinhardt Al & Naomi Asch John & Theodora Koepper Henry & Nordine Arnaud Joe & Cass Soder Tom Bamford Bud & June Koorndyk Mary Kennedy Barnard Mary & Marge Speidel Henry Betz Elwood & Verna Lash Ed & Eunice Black Bill & Ruth Thorpe Joe & Peggy Bradley Felix & Marjorie Leeton Rowe Bowen Walt & Juanita Toronjo Lew & Ann Brown Ralph & Betty Leslie Pete & Carol Bradley Harold Burks Vince & Carol Lozowicki Fred & Ginny Bromm 448th Bomb Group Jack & Helen Burris Bill & Val McCracken Bob Brunst Sam & Elaine Anguish Dave & Charlotte Carpenter John McHugh John & Thelma Burke Stu Barr Nick & Rose Caruso Stuart & Margaret Main Gene & Marge Buszta Julian & Win Blake Leigh Claflin George Makin Henry Clayton Walt & Ruth Bressler Mike & Mary DeBrino Cecil & Kay Martin Dick Coley Steve & Barbara Burzenski Sam & Gloria Delcambre Bill & Elsie Meyers F.W. & Phyllis Conley Dwight Covell Bill & Josephine Doerner Fred & Gladys Miller Charlie & Evelyn Cooper George & Joy Dupont Frank Durante Ray & Ruth Nathe Ralph & Jan GrandeII Ben & Charlotte Everett Ray Eck Charles Norris Fritz & Marge Dale Marvin & Ida Goff Johnny Fridell Jim & Mary-Helen Nye Bill & Marilyn Dewey Clyde & Annie Hatley T.C. & Dot Gibbs John O'Driscoll Frank & Elizabeth DiMola Larry Hinds Ralph & Audrey Glenn Jerry Opitz Dick & Tiny Dixon Paul & Mary Ellen Homan Carl & Bronnie Hall Clarence & Zona Pease Henry & Mary Dobek Gail & June Irish Dorothy McDonald Harrison Charles & Doris Peterson Jim & Dot Dowling Dick & Bobbie Kennedy Bob & Nan Jacobs Dick & Flo Peterson Bob & Cass Drummond Marshall & Alice Kisch C.D. & Simone Johnson Tommie & Vivian Pharr Harold & Janet Eckelbury Charlie & Agnes McBride Howard & Nellie Jones Joe & Martha Power Leroy & June Elfstrom Frank & Ida Mae Marx Harry & Louise Kelleher OrviII & Lauralynne Powers Bud & Dot Farnsworth Clay & Helen Mellor Ed & Doreen Kromer Dave & Polly Reich Elmer & Jeanne Fischer Bob & Beryl Mudget Bob & Madeleine McKeever John Repola Bernie & Estelle Fishman Milt & Ruth Nichols Floyd & Dot Mabee Peter Rice Dave Gates Tom & Petra Taylor P.A. & Julie Martin Clark & Beatrice Robinson Karl & Barbara Goff Walt & Eunice Tombari Stan & Dotty Mikolajczyk Tom & Virginia Rockett Lawrence & Frances Graupner George & Arlene Watkins Marty & Elvera Naberezny Ben & Helen Schaefer Seymour Grossman Jay & June Young Howard & Jan Nisbet Aaron & Sally Schultz Albert & Kathryn Horton Frel, Peggy, & Roy Youngblood Henry & Beatrice Nykamp Bob Seigh Walt & Lillian Johnson John O'Grady Ray & Deanna Shannon Gerald & Lea Kathol 453rd Bomb Group Tom O'Grady Ken Smith Ted & Pauline Kaye Will & Marion Adler John Roche Dick & Marie Smith John & Elsie Knizeski Bob Allen Dick Ryan Jack & Ruth Spooner Doc & Sug Kreidler Lyle & Lee Alverson Harold & Erma Secor Tom & Melba Stephens Harold & Marge Larson Bob & Evelyn Anderson Bob & Alice Smith Chauncy & Mary Nette Stroup George & Lucille Leininger Sheldon, Sylvia, Bruce and Don & Mary Lou Spencer John & Margery Tucholski Eldon & Eileen Long Linda Baker Ed Spencer Frank, Grace & Susan Vadas George Lymburn Hank Barker Cal & Margaret Stewart Charles, O'Neilda & Bruce Wells John & Meg Lynes Wes & June Buten Fred & Inez Strombom Lloyd, Clara, Steven and Carlton & Betty McConnell Ed Becker John & Bee Sullivan Shari West Frank & Carolyn Mangan Bob Bieck Attilio Verna Peter & Mary Wester Carl & Betty Marino Bert & Clara Biel Norman & Sally Watten Earl & June Zimmerman Glen & Jean Marstellar Dick & Cora Brown Ed & Helen Weir Sam & Pate Miller Walt & Pat Conneely Charlie & Peggy Weiss 392nd Bomb Group Reg & Martha Miner Tony Corbo Don & Dean Winn Chuck & Eleanor Bader Jim & Joan Myers Lyman & Geneva Crumrin Bob & Marguerite Wright Ernie Barber John & Dorothy Nortavage Frank Davidson Vern & Hilda Baumgart Ode & Gerry Odegaard George & Kay Desmarais 389th Bomb Group Luke Beddingfield Jim Parker Jim & Dorothy Dyke Harold Beatty Ed & Pauline Brewster Dave & Joan Patterson Bill & Dorothea Eagleson Sylvester & Virginia Bergman Floyd & Roberta Bull Ed & Penny Peterson John & Maxine Fiorillo Bill & Betty Berry Pat Burns Doug & Theda Pillow Frank & Edith Fluharty Warren & Rachel Birckhead Cal & Dolly Carter Ed. Sue & Randy Roloff Ralph & Phyllis Ford 20 Jim & Ann Halligan George & Liliane Howard Edward & June Trafford Vince Cahill Russ Harriman Bill & Maurice Jameson Walt & Mary Weaver Byron & Catherine Calomiris Irene Hurner Oliver & Penny Johnson Hank Wedaa Jim & Thelma Campbell Jay & Ann Jeffries Warren & June Johnston Joe Zbikowski Norman & Helen Canfield Bob & Betty Jordan Homer & Norma Knisley Tony & Virginia Caputo John & Nita Kassab Harold & Edna Knox 489th Bomb Group Royce & Jeanette Colby Frank Kyle Darrell & Rhea Latch Clarence & Lily Barras Edmund & Pearl Dutkevitch Frank & Jean Kumor Bob Morin John Becker Norman & Dolores Edwards Doug & Jane Leavenworth Bernie & Jean Newmark Ralph & Gini Belward Seymour & Hazel Eisenstat Graham & Nell Logan Bob & Gene Nielson Otey, Ruth & Robin Berkeley Don & Betty Ferguson Andy Low Harry & Eleanor Parker John & Tony Bignoli Tanner & Pat Freeman Carl & Janet Lutz Herman & Bertie Peacher Ray & Lyn Blanchard Harold & Florence Fritzler/ Ralph McClure Jim & Gladys Perrin Bruno & Josephine Boccolucci Mary Wiley Dennis & June McElhinny Herb & Katherine Perry Francis & Virginia Bodine Lou & Anne Gallo John & Teresa McGough Skeet Pool Clarence & Shirley Booth Hank & Harriet Gibbs Guy & Norma Martin Pete & Diane Poulas Tom & Muriel Bouley Larry & Joan Hassell Joe & Gloria Meintel Bob & Marty Renn John & Pat Brody Bernie & Clara Head Walt & Betty Meyer Ed & Dorothy Robbins Ivan & Lillian Brown Lou & Vivian Higgins Dot Middleton Rick & Ceil Rokicki Bud, Mike, Dana, Karen, Sara, George & Rita Hoffman Johnnie & Barbara Miller Charles & Arlene Ryder Matthew & Jack Chamberlain Bill Holm Mo & Ludie Morris Graham & Joan Savill Don & Betty Champagne Ross & Val Houston Dante & Josephine Morroni Delbert & Sara Shaffer Marion & Elizabeth Cochrane Jim Hudson Ed & Ramona Myers Stan & Helen Sievertson John & Olga Cowart Jerome & Lynne Ivice Lloyd & Nathalie Nelson George & Mary Snyder Paddy & Jan Cox Jack & Marilyn Leppert Bob & Betty Nelson Leo & Melba Sparkman Bert & Jean Crawford Frank & Barbara Lewis John & Helen Nettleton Veto & Jane Stasunas Winifred Cressler Henry Liljedahl Don & Mimi Olds Elmer & Edna Sutters John & Kathleen Dalgleish Guy & Miller McElhany Gene & Gloria O'Leary Art & Ginny Vanderbeek Jim & Jean Davis Bill & Betty Nelson John & Frances O'Leary Lou & Rosemary Vehslage John DeCani John Paller Win & Bee Pace Frank & Mildred Vermeiren Henry & Alva Dellano Allen & Bonnie Parsons Don & Peggy Parcells Jim & Elaine Wedding Dick & Josie Dietrick Ed & Dottie Parsons Charlie Parker Morell & Jean Whipple Bob & Margaret Dorriety Tony Riccio John & Hazel Phillips Ed & Helma Wilcox Don & Shirley Engler Bill & Jacque Riggs Pat & Agnes Ramm Ray Yow Charlie & Helen Freudenthal Wayne & Martha Rogers Dan & Muriel Reading Frank & Olga Zoubek Charlie & Olga Gabrus Dean & Patricia Stewart Herb & Berenice Reinders August & Edith Gary John & Sara Torode Jack & Vera Roberts 466th Bomb Group LaVerne & Dorothy Graf Mark Turner John & Marie Roth Joe & Irene Arbaugh Lou Gramando 492nd Bomb Group Glenn Bostwick Chuck & Flo Harkins & Jean Smith Frank & Louise Bud & Margaret Beasley Lee & Christopher Hinckley Vi Steingraber Margaret Calderalo Rev. Bill & Norma Beasley Wilbur & Jeane Stites Sam Godwin Wayne & Jeannette Hodges Hoerr Bill Clarey Milt & Lucille Stokes Mike & Pauline Hoover Rudy & Annie Gerald & Hazel Edwards Cliff & Marcine Thomas Jim & Mary Lorenz John 8, Irene Homan Green Jeffery Gil Frank & Jackie Thomas Ed & Lillian Mello Jeff & Becky Jake & Helen Mink Glen & Edith Tisher Gerry & Sammy Merket Ed & Eleanor Johnson Harry Orthman Jim & Dorothy Turner Bill & Lu Nothstein Bob & Elsie Jurgens Warren & Thelma Vernier Jim & Elinor Russell Jack & Mary Ann Kennedy Headquarters Bob & Isabelle Victor Art & Barbara Sessa Tony & Marlene Kerrison Howard & Jo Baum Al & Louise Walls Hank & Edie Tevelin C.W. & Helen Kidd Warren & Norma Burman Bill & Mary Wheeler Bill & Dulcie Tracy John & Pat Lamar Evelyn & Lillian Cohen John & Dorothy White Kurt & Vicki Brooks Warning Joe & Germaine LaPierre Virginia Tomline Davis Abe & Janet Wilen Dean & Mimi Leonard Roy & Betty Devlin Don & Ina Wills 467th Bomb Group Arvo & Alma Lohelo Delos & Mary Frances Elder Dick Witton Harold & Thelma Brewer Tom & Betsy McQuoid Don & Babe Elgas Bob & Helen Wolfe Charlie & Eloyce Caldwell John & Anne Mansfield Earline Embrey George & Katherine Church Jim & Cosy Marshall Paul & Florence Fredritz 458th Bomb Group Willis Cobb/Reid Eason Paul Menzenski Harold & Trudy Gill Don & Doris Allen George 8. Mary Condry Fred 8. Loretta Meyer Chris Collins Henderson Jerry Allen Mary & Doris Davis Harold & Martha Morris Bill & Mary Jenkins John & Maria Barillaro Roy Dettinger/Ruth Reichard Mark & Ethel Lee Osborne Livingston & Tina Jones Chuck & Lolly Booth Les, Jo & Jane Dining Jim & Mary Margaret Pace Dottie Krogmann Harry & Nancy Brown Joe, Helen, Joe Jr. and Ed & Barb Phillips Vara Christian Kubly Birto & Jean Brumby Joan Dzenowagis Emilio & Marcie Pontillo Henry & Kitty Mason Jim & Lou Busby Norman & Lucy Felbinger Wyatt & JoAnne Porterfield Charlie & Madeleine Mills Dick & Edith Butler Charlie Finn Charles Reevs Lillian Meadows Moore/ Bill & Barb Case Jeff & Terry Gregory Carl & Helen Rosendahl Harry Moore Lloyd & Barbara Chapman Weldon & Helen Gruver/ Warren & Bernice Scherbert Dean & Deanie Moyer Bill & Jean Clark Jason Gerstner Frank Skeldon Sid Piper Frank & Jeanne Clements Joe & Florence Haenn Neal & Patricia Sorensen Jim & Edna Reeves Walt & Eleanor Cline Paul, Frances & Grace Hannatey Dick & Bev Stenger John & Janice Sanders Frank Coleman Craig & Susan Harrington Paul & Bambi Surbaugh Eleanor & Bill Storms Gerry & Barbara Covey George & Nancy Hobkirk Al & Marge Telson Ray & Ruth Strong Dale & Virginia Dyer Jim & Barbara Hogarth Bob & Miriam Thomas Lida B. Cowan Thompson Bill & Kathleen Edkins Fred & Jane Holdredge Julius & Jerry Vanerwegen Jordan Uttal Duane & Mary Fair Charles & Marion Huston Garrett & Helen Verplanck Hathy & Milt Veynar Dick & Lois Fairfield Chuck & Norma Kagy Harry & Virginia Wagnon Joe & June Whittaker George & Chris Ferrell Ed Mahoney Ed & Betty Wall Don 8. Carolyn Fraser Will & Cecily Noden Charlie & Elaine Weaver Board of Governors — Walt & Elizabeth Freeman Earle & Aline Page Bill & Polly Wilkinson 2AD Memorial Library Lou & Eleanor Freiberg Osmon & Amy Peterson Anne Barne Elmo & Betty Geppelt Floyd & Anne Pugh 491st Bomb Group Tom & Robin Eaton Amisa & Audrey Gilpatrick / John Rice Carl & Louise Alexanderson John & Rory Caligaris Rocky & Ida Rothchild Tom & Boodie Allen Norwich Convention Committee Jim & Marion Ginn Bob & Eleanor Salzarulo Bob & Faith Bacher Chris Binns Lionel Goudreault Robert & Rosemary Sheehan Frank & Lee Bachman Peter Rudd Jane Grahlman Al Shower Hal Barrilleaux Kermit Greene Oliver, Dorothy & David Simmons Dave & Agnes Bellis 8th Air Force Stan & Dorothy Hammell Tony & Mary Smolar Hugh Bennett/Jean Bennett Mary Gill Rice (Secretary to Beulas & Georgia Hebert Jack Stevens Ed & Betty Bennet Jimmy Doolittle) Bob & Kathy Hiemstra Bob & Anne Stone Dick & Teenie Black Ken & Alice Holcomb Jack & Anne Stratton Ken & Jean Boyd B-24 All American Joe & Lucille Hood Charlie & Billie Taylor Michale & Margaret Brienza Bob Collings & Crew 21 "Now in the darkness and fog, the first plane is coming down the runway. To the right of the control tower, a searchlight throws a long shaft of light across the run- BOMB GROUP way. Planes must be in the air before they ljUN_AY 446th reach the band of light, in order to clear the by trees invisible at the end of the field. In the f.Davenport shaft from the searchlight you can see fine ULL rain falling. "The fourth plane off seems tied to the ground. We in the control tower are all try- The Chaplain Gannon Chapter of the can say is: don't take it for granted next ing to help it up. It just clears the hurdle of 446th Bomb Group Association held their time you see one of those headlines. light, like a horse barely over a jump. You third Armistice Day reunion in Orlando this "This unit — the 446th Bomber Group breathe more easily when it's over. past November and once again had an (of the 8th Air Force) — is a world in itself. "In his calm drawl, Col Crawford says, outstanding turnout, in excess of 100 peo- Big, solid, Texan Col. Troy W. Crawford 'This isn't really a bad morning. Why, ple. It is great to have a dedicated group of of El Paso is the commanding officer sometimes you can't even see the planes as people headed by Bill and Betty McMahon, responsible for getting the planes into the they go past the control tower. You can who are willing to put in the necessary air. hear them, but you can't see them.' hours to provide the opportunity for our "The top planning is done by Lieut. Gen. "Now in the graying light the last planes members to gather in fellowship. At the Jimmy Doolittle, who makes the final deci- are leaving the field. For the first time you same time, a word of thanks should also go sions on the targets and the number of can see the grove of trees off at the end of to the 2ADA leadership, who have been planes to go over. Then orders are sent the runway and you can appreciate how performing these same chores over the past down through divisions and wings to close a shave it was for some of the ships years. It ain't easy! But it is very satisfying bomber groups such as this one. that seemed to be earthbound. to have known you helped someone. Right? "When the order comes to put up the "Up above the overcast at 10,000 feet in the brilliant sun, hidden from us, In the future: A number of us will be maximum number of planes that the unit they are forming up. At other English this leaving for a 446th Assocation sentimental can send up, the first step is to alert the bases same thing has been happening. Our tour of the old haunts, most of which were ground crews. Shortly after midnight they squadrons in formation to only observed by those young intrepid go to work on the big Liberators 'on line.' will join others form a group, and of airmen of the 1944 and 1945 period. The "The bombers scattered around the that group will be one many in an armada tour will begin in London 27 May 1990, perimeter of the field are not under shelter, extending for many miles across the frozen come thence to Cambridge, Duxford, Norwich and neither are the men who work on them. sky. They will back — those that do or area, across the Channel to Eemnes This means that through the cold, wet night come back — six seven hours later. Netherlands to view the only memorial to the ground crews clamber in, over and "It is not just a getting men the 446th Bomb Group on the continent. under the big planes. They test the thou- matter of into planes and planes off the Then a long ride to Caen for four days of sand and one gadgets in this most ground. Sometimes upward of the inspection of the beach area and other sites complicated of machines. 15,000 men are in air. But back of them are long in the area. Then back to London on 9 "At 2:30 the plane crews are wakened. lines of trucks carrying gasoline and June. Dressing for the Arctic cold of high bombs, and behind the trucks are ships, and back of the Some of our people will be making more altitudes is a slow and careful process that is not completed until after briefing. First ships are the great industrial plants of detailed tours of the area and then attend- America. ing the 2ADA affair in Norwich, 25 July. comes breakfast, and at about 4 o'clock the crews are ready for the main briefing. "You think of all that as you see the The annual reunion of the 446th Bomb They crowd into the briefing room, planes go over the hurdle of light, and you Group Association is scheduled in Tucson, where intelligence officers explain the begin to understand something of the plan- Arizona, 19-22 October 1990. Tucson is target and enlarged photographs and maps ning and work that has gone into this mass where the famed 446th Bomb Group began. are thrown on a screen in front of the darkened effort that five years ago was pronounced Unbeknownst in April 1943, this group was room. "It is a serious business. Reference to impossible by most of the experts." to become the leader of the Eighth Air 'comparatively light flak' over the target Weren't we great!!! Keep tuned to Force on 6 June 1944 in the beginning of area draws brief, ironic laughter. These Beachbell. the largest land invasion ever undertaken. It boys know what 'comparatively light flak' also was to become one of those really great means even in this phase of the air war with fighting organizations which would con- Germany, when most planes tinue its responsible role get back in ensuring safely. 7th Annual freedom for the world by its role in the last "After the main briefing there are special invasion the armies of the United States briefings for pilots, navigators and have participated in. In its last invasion, it bombar- Southwest Region diers. Smaller groups huddle did not drop bombs but delivered men, in corners making careful notes on equipment and for all important Dinner Reunion supplies our armies and points. besieged civilians in Grenada. "While briefings are as thorough as Members of the Second Air Division To go back to late 1944, the following possible and are based on all available Association living in Texas, Louisiana, was published by Marquis W. Childs in his intelligence, to an outsider they have a Oklahoma, Arkansas and New Mexico nationally syndicated column, "The State casual sound. What the 27-year-old colonel have already been advised that our 7th of the Nation." with the pointer in front of the room is talk- Annual Dinner will be held Saturday, April "Somewhere in England. Because they ing about is how these men may be able to 21, 1990 at the Harvey Hotel in Dallas, have become almost a matter of routine, save their lives if they run into serious trou- Texas. the public has taken for granted the day-to- ble from weather or the enemy. He tells Members from anywhere in the country day achievements of the U.S. Army Air them the signals to use if they have to take are welcome to join us. Many of our Forces that three or four years ago would the course of last resort, and again there is Association Officers and Executive Com- have made a sensation. brief, almost disdainful laughter. mittee will be in attendance. For details, "A headline says that a thousand or 1500 "Take-off time is close to what is please write or phone or Dinner Chairman: planes have been sent over Germany. What theoretically called daylight over here. It is that means in organization, in planning, still dark outside when the briefings are Mr. W.R. Paul Surbaugh and in discipline you can hardly appreciate over. A thin mist is blowing over the field. 7620 Westwind Drive until you've seen it. I have had a chance to From the control tower you cannot see the Fort Worth, Texas 76179 observe a bomber group in action, and all I planes lining up for the take-off. Tel. (817) 236-7906 22 First GCA? North Central by George A. Reynolds Region Reunion again, the data In 1977 Col. Robert W. Vincent told me feet on the descent. Once The North Central Region of the Second of a very unusual experience over East would be verified between pilot and Air Division will hold its 7th Annual Anglia 6 Dec. 44. The Group was enroute controller to decide whether the landing Reunion October 10-12, 1990, at the French to Bielefeld, Germany when Bob's ship,"A was possible or to execute a go-around. Lick Springs Resort, French Lick, Indiana. Dog's Life," developed a bad case of Meanwhile, in low ceiling/visibility The region includes the states of Ohio, "distemper" over the North Sea. He conditions, Lou Freiburg, Herbert Perry, Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, aborted and did a 180 with a full load of Harold Knox et al, from the control tower Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota. bombs. Back over England, clouds extend- crew, stood by firing yellow flares at the The Second Air Division members atten- ed from the ground to above 10,000 feet. runway end to mark those last, critical ding this reunion will be enjoying the Nearing Horsham,(then Lt.) Vincent called moments of the flight to touch down. facilities of the largest and most complete for resort in the Midwest. First established as a approach/landing instructions and Vincent said, "No flares showed up for my Hotel Spa in 1842 and located in the Rolling explained their dilemma. First, he was told, only zero-zero conditions landing, but that drive Cumberland Foot Hills of Southern Indi- up to The Wash and salvo the fog was so thick it might have masked them firecrackers. This was done. ana, it has continued its tradition of out...but that's okay by me, it seems yellow outstanding service, incomparable recrea- Inbound again, he was advised, "The is supposed to mean goodbye anyway..." tion facilities and excellent food throughout Whole island is socked in, and if your fuel How well did it work during the worst its 148 years of existence. reserve doesn't allow going to an emergency winter over England in 40 years (according This year's meeting will be held during field, your other choice is a ground to natives)? Pretty doggone good! In fact, the week instead of on a weekend, sche- controlled approach (GCA)." The field was nearly all of the 2nd AD bases later duled to take place during the peak period well below instrument landing minimums. established a system using Seller's concept for Fall Foliage Grandeur for which the His fuel state was okay, but he agreed to try to recover their birds in lousy weather. area is acclaimed. the "unknown" because the bird was Invitations with information about costs, Presenting more of a pressing need to get on It saved many days, several times, in agenda, etc. will be mailed to North Central the ground (carb. icing had also begun). ferrying the Libs back from alternate fields. Second Air Division members in early May. Was it accepted by the aircrews? Numerous Since there will be no nationwide Second Just prior to this, Capt. Robert C. times when 458th ships reached Horsham, it Air Division Reunion this year in the Sellers, 458th Flight Control Officer, had was below landing minimums and fuel continental USA, the committee extends an devised a radar approach system that was reserves didn't allow for safe flight to other invitation to members from other states tested and approved for such conditions. fields. They landed at "home" without outside our region to attend the French As instructed, Vincent flew over the north benefit of a "nylon letdown." Nough said! Lick meeting. splasher beacon (either 5 or 7), turned to Anyone outside the area that is interested the instrument runway heading, descending From the late 1940s-50s, GCAs in the in attending should write to the address and maintaining the advised speed. At 300 military were as routine as lowering the gear below to receive details. feet they still had not broken out, and and flaps to land, and it worked to perfec- Paul Steichen Vincent began (understandably) to wonder tion thousands of times. Then it was 1659 Cloister Drive aloud about recruiting a Seeing Eye dog to superseded by the Instrument Landing Indianapolis, Indiana 46260 lead his "Dog," (the wingtips were not System (ILS), a procedure which uses an visible). Controller Sellers said calmly, angled radio beam from the runway and is "Continue approach." He did, and at just in use today. The ILS is based on the same under 50 feet, saw the tarmac, touching principle as Bob Sellers perfected, except down right on target. The last half of the there is no controller required. A receiver in A Memorial Rose runway was obscured in a fog bank. the aircraft tells the pilot when his plane is on the proper alignment, angle of descent at Cambridge for Bob Sellers told me two years ago how and distance to the runway. his system worked. He set up an APQ-13 Your Lost One(s) airborne radar set in the control tower for I did research during my last few years area surveillance. Next, he determined with the FAA on the development of the On Memorial Day, this coming flight levels on the approach path for ILS, and nothing definite ever turned up. May, 1990, at the American Cemetery Obstruction clearance. Then on some of the But a logical answer surfaced more than a at Cambridge (Maddingly), England, "better weather days," flight-check aircraft few times — "It evolved from someone's Mr. D. Saltzer, a British friend (WWII Fighter Pilot) and The Friends of flew the pattern at a predetermined speed to invention during WWII." If Robert Sellers' RAF The Eighth have kindly offered to fur- insure safety under actual instrument con- GCA system wasn't the very first, someone nish and place, with reverence, a rose ditions. After a number of trial runs were else just had a better public relations man! at the gravesite of your lost loved successful, the experimental project was On 3 Oct. 87, 458th troops met to dedicate a memorial at the AF Museum for one(s). If you wish this done, please declared sound and the procedure imple- the name and other I.D. those members of the Group who were send of the mented for Station 123. one(s) buried at Cambridge. K1A. Here, General Isbell presented a The children of the Maddingly .Landing aircraft were in sequence and belated Meritorious Service Award to Bob aligned School will place the rose, and a photo with the instrument runway to Sellers for his outstanding contribution to begin an will be sent to you. approach. Radar blips verified the the Group's mission. Col. Vincent correct azimuth and range from the Mr. Saltzer needs timely notice; remembers Capt. Sellers as being more please send the information ASAP to: runway's end, and the operation continued English (in habit) than GI, preferring tea to thusly: as the radar operator advised pilots coffee and having been at Horsham "since Mr. D. Saltzer When their ship was five miles out, he shortly after WW1" when the 458th 36 Brockles Mead Should be at the established altitude — arrived. He is still holding an award for Bob Harlow about 3,000 maintaining the feet, and too — maybe a double gin and tonic for Essex CM19 4PT correct speed. At two miles out his height getting the "Dog" down safely 6 Dec. 44. England should be 2,000 feet and at one mile, 500 23 Stewart, P.O. Box 631, O'Neill, NB 68763. 1989. I still have 145 outstanding applica- pen Letter Cal was co-author of the famous book tions, still working on them. We gained 112 "Ploesti." He told of his work on a new members, lost 20 to Folded Wings, and 15 book about the 93rd BG. He gave James dropped at request, so at the end of 1989 we To the 93rd Burris, our 93rd Chaplain, and myself a had 645 actual members, 20 Associate and section of the book for review. I later asked 36 listed with another group before the 93rd Chappie what he thought of what he read in in our roster. Please fellows, if you haven't by Floyd H. Mabee (93rd) the section; he replied very good, and I paid your 1990 dues, do so now! There is thought it very good also. If interested, nothing that causes me more work that MINI-REUNION DINNER MEETING please contact Cal. I next introduced Col. receiving this drop list for nonpayment of Our dinner was started by a beautiful invo- John Roche, Ret, and he spoke to the dues every year from Evelyn Cohen. cation written and presented by Peggy members. I had asked him before if he Maj. Gen. Ramsay Potts Ret., 93rd and Weiss, wife of past V.P. Ltc. Charles Weiss would introduce Gen. Ted for me. These 453rd BG, dropped in at our meeting. (Ret.) fellows all filled in for our invited speaker, asked if he would care to address the We had an outstanding attendance, Gen. Ted. Also introduced Tom Bamford. troops, and introduced him as one of the approximately ninety. I'm sorry, I can't list He had made up posters with pictures of 93rd's original officers who later took all the names. Our big disappointment was our Memorial in England 1987, and offered command of another group. He spoke to that Lt. Gen. E.J. Timberlake, USAF Ret. them to members for a donation for our our members. We hope to see more of him was unable to attend. I called him the next 93rd kitty. He turned over $15 to me, and at our reunions. I think he was a little sur- day and went to see him. I presented him stated that he gave more away than what he prised at the number of 93rd men present. with a plaque I made with our new Group collected. Tom O'Grady gave me a bunch Good to see you once again, General. Never and Squadron emblems, but forgot to ask of "The Circus Club 391" cards to hand met you before, but will always remember him to hold it when I took his picture. The out to members. Col. Bob Jacobs, Ret. you as being one of the handsomest officers brass plate on the bottom was inscribed gave me 93rd tail marking cards, the yellow in the 93rd. with the wording, "Lt. Gen. E.J. and black stripes, in case you have forgot- Timberlake USAF Ret., it was an honor to ten. They are to be used in our name tags to STORY OF THE 93rd BG, and GROUP have served under your command. From make it easier to identify our 93rd AND SQUADRON EMBLEMS: October the members of the 93rd Bomb Group (H), members. I still have some of both; if you 17, 1989 I ordered 150 books. I had to 1989." We talked and reminisced for an want one, drop me a line. I hope that I have provide the pre-addressed mailing labels. hour, I took his picture and then I left, covered all that spoke; if not, please accept Asked for price quote for putting the 93rd didn't want to overtire him. I didn't have my apologies, I forgot to turn on my tape B.G. (H) on the cover with Buffalo grain, my favorite navigator, Dot, with me, so I recorder again. as the original was. The cost was only 46 got lost on the way to see Gen. Ted, and on cents each, so I had this done. I had some my return to the hotel. I was one of the of you confused in my Fall report; the $1.05 original members of the 93rd, flew over plus postage that I told you about was what with his Group, Sept. '42, on "Shoot we paid the book company to mail the Luke." I personally never had the pleasure books to you. That helped cut down on of meeting Gen. Ted before, but always had some of my work; there was no additional the greatest admiration and respect for him, cost to you. November 27th I received my and would have gone through anything on two copies ordered, and immediately spot- his command, as I believe all members of ted errors. The chapters were not in proper the 93rd would have in those days. sequence and some of the pictures looked washed out. I called the book company and complained, with a follow-up letter, also sent my old copy of an original for them to compare and show what they did wrong. When they reviewed my copy, they called with a follow-up letter and apologized, and action would be taken to rectify the prob- Floyd Mabee presents plaque to M/Sgt. lem. They said that they would reprint the Joseph T. Beach (Rel.) 150 copies at their expense, including the postage and remailing the books with my I covered in my Winter Journal report pre-addressed labels and would try to have the Memorial Dedication at the USAF them in the mail before Christmas. At the Museum, except I didn't have pictures of same time I had 38 additional paid orders the presentation of the plaques I made and and ordered another 50 copies. I received presented to M/Sgt. Joseph T. Beach Ret. the 12 extra copies and have sold 10 and for the outstanding job of chairman for our mailed them. Before I could notify England Memorial 1987. Also presented members, some have sent me one of your one to William Doerner for the outstanding two books, and five have sent me your job of chairman of our memorial at the corrected copy. Only two other members USAF Museum at Dayton last July. Sgt. spotted the errors and called me. I then sent Beach sent me a picture later; I'm sorry that 50 postcards and letters to book dealer in Lt. Gen. E.J. Timberlake, USAF Bet. First I didn't get any other pictures of those England to notify you that both copies were Commanding Officer of the 93rd B.G.(H) presentations. If anyone took any, please yours at no extra cost, and would notify send me a copy. you about what happened in this report. After dinner I introduced Col. Alfred We had a good number of first timers at When the final 2 copies are sold, book Asch, Ret., 6205 Meadow Ct., Rockville, the dinner. All members, including first dealer in England makes final 50070 pay- MD 20852. He told about having a timers, stood and identified themselves. For ment, and I pay the book company. There Hallmark plastic replica of our brass the year 1989 I had sent 93 applications and will be no more books unless I receive at Memorial at the USAF Museum at Dayton, another 52 second ones with letter and old least 35 more paid orders. I want to wind made to sell to members. If interested, Journal to 93rd men that had been sent an this up. please contact him. Also introduced Carroll application sometime between 1987 and (continued on page 25) 24 Librarian Fund in memory of P.A. Martin, Open (cont. other two projects, #2 and #3. If anyone Letter to the 93rd 93rd B.G. This sure is a wonderful gesture from page 24) objects to this, please let me know. for their love of him. Some of you other Anyone that hasn't received your ordered The Group and Squadron emblems, of 93rd members should remember this - what emblems and/or the Story of the 93rd B.G. the 200 Group ordered, still have 62, had to better way to honor one of your crew? (H), please let me know. Some of you order an additional 100 before going to In my Fall report, I asked for a vote when thought that I had flubbed when you receiv- H.H. Have 20 to 30 each of the other ones, ordering emblems and books for #1, #2, ed the second book; hope you are now 63 - 330th. What happened to you 330th and #3, thus far this count is 30 for satisfied. I have sent the five corrected men? Don't you like your emblem? They Librarian Fund #1, 6 for Castle Air copies back to the fellows at our expense. If are still $4.75 each including postage. Have Museum #2, and 5 for the Collings Founda- you don't want the copy that had the errors paid back four members that were so kind tion #3. I have stated all along that I in sequence of chapters, send it to me, and I to loan us the up-front money for these, thought the 93rd should be involved in all will resell them at a cheaper price, or you just haven't paid myself as yet. three of these projects. I again explained might want to give it to one of your crew THE AMERICAN LIBRARIAN FUND: the three to members at the meeting that who couldn't afford the $30. Back to our meeting. Jordan Uttal dropped now we must remove from bank, our 93rd When writing to me, would you please in and congratulated the 93rd for being in Memorial Fund, and ask for a vote for one note your phone numbers, so that I can 2nd place for contributors and pledges in of the three to donate in the name of the enter it in my roster. Sometimes I have a the 2nd ADA for the Librarian Fund Drive. 93rd B.G., #1, #2, or #3. The vote was need to call, rather than writing so many I have received funds in with orders for almost unanimous for the Librarian Fund letters, or one of your crew might be look- emblems and 93rd books specifying balance #1. I announced at the 2nd ADA general ing for you. for the Librarian Fund. Please don't send meeting that the 93rd was donating the this money to me; I have to write another balance of our Memorial Fund to the INFORMATION NEEDED: I am looking check and send it to Jordan. At that time Librarian Fund. This wil be done at the 2nd for the following 93rd men: Delmar Davis, our members had donated 136 checks and 6 ADA general meeting at England in July formerly from Tennessee; also Joseph Pledges. Come on fellows, we have 645 1990, and the amount will be in excess of Jones, formerly from Cottondale, FL. members at the time of this report. Some $1,000. FOLDED WINGS: 93rd men not members are doing a great job, but to attain the 93rd Told members at the meeting that, due to of the 2nd ADA. William O'Bannon goal we must do better. The sad news is, the fact that I had done all the work on the reported that his pilot Harold M. Holt was Prince Albert Martin, Eng. Gunner of the sale of emblems and the 93rd Story, that I killed four years ago on a farm tractor acci- 328th B.S. on original "Eager Beaver" would donate the profit in the name of the dent. M/Sgt. Perry W. Scott (Ret.) sent me passed away after attending the Hilton 93rd B.G. to whom I pleased. When all the an obituary from 1988 paper, John DuBay, Head reunion. His old crew have gotten books and emblems are sold and everyone 67 Cults Rd., Durham Bay, MD passed together and sent checks to me for the paid back, we will donate the profits to the away April 12, 1988. The 466th Bomb Group by Elwood Nothstein Our 42nd Annual Convention in Hilton Head was deemed a success, with 38 in attendance. The following decisions were made during our brief business meeting. I will remain as Group Vice President, with Art Sessa as my assistant, through our 1990 reunion in Norwich. Jim Lorenz is going to contact a representative from All Saints Church concerning the placement of a Memorial Window. We are still in the Process of gathering information to deter- mine the feasibility of such a project. In Residence of Donald and Cathy Thomson - former Headquarters Building, 466th B.G. addition to the financial statement given in (2) Did they reach the target? (3) Were they now the residence of Donald and Cathy the President's Report, the 466th decided to shot down? If so, where? The War Depart- Thomson. They will be our host and hostess contribute $400.00 to the American Libra- ment had them listed as "missing in action" rian for part of the day we spend at Attlebridge Fund. Our convention concluded with for 18 months before declaring them "killed and Weston-Longville. congratulations going to 466er, Margaret in action." All reports to Ed will be greatly Recently, I heard from a member who Calderalo on winning the WAC's 2nd ADA appreciated. visited Norwich and Attlebridge during this Bomb Group Quilt that was raffled off to Folded Wings has claimed another of our past year. He had some difficulty getting to raise money for the American Librarian members, Col. Charles F. Dibrell of San the base. I would suggest that anyone plan- Fund. The Fund is growing but can use all Antonio, TX. He was a command pilot in ning to visit the area, first go to the Central of the help we can give it. To those of you World War ll and also flew in the Berlin Library and seek out Tony North. Through have contributed, a hearty thank you; and Airlift. He had a varied career in the Tony you can get in touch with a very for those who have not, please reconsider military which began in 1938 in the U.S. knowledgeable guide, Ted Clarke, who has and remember that every little bit helps. Cavalry. He retired from the Air Force in been very helpful to 466th members We have a and request from a new associate 1964 and resumed a career in teaching for other visitors. member: Edward F. O'Brien, 1914 the next thirteen years. By way of explanation to those of you Fick fair, St. Louis, MO 63146. His brother Two of our members are on the road to not familiar with our reunions, at each was Lt. John G. J. O'Brien, navigator on recovery; Bob Pettersen of Missouri City, mini-reunion business meeting we "pass the crew 517 of the 785th Bomb Squadron. The TX, from bypass surgery and Carl Falk of hat" for donations. This was the source of Pilot of the crew was Lt. Caverne and they Hillsdale, NJ from a stroke. We wish them the $400.00 contribution to the American flew A/C No. 42-52555 on 9 April 1944. Ed the best and hope they are back on their feet Librarian Fund. Prior to this, we had given would like to hear from anyone who might soon. $700.00 to the Renovation Fund of the recall anything concerning this crew on the Plans are progressing for our visit to Memorial Room. The group now has a mission to Tutow. His specific concerns Attlebridge. For those of you who haven't balance of $152.94. The fund is maintained are: (1) Did they join the group formation? been back, our Headquarters Building is by "Joe" Arbaugh of Zanesville, Ohio. 25 Developmental Fear by Coy Lawson

Major McCoy's print on the front of the open bomb bay and the consequent cloud took forever and your route in was evasive Fall issue of the Journal started me of vaporized gas looks exactly like smoke. and long. You were down low at cruising reminiscing about that March 24th drop- Why didn't I jump? I had promised myself speed and counting every house, dead cow, ping of supplies to troops across the Rhine. never to await a bail out order under those downed plane, wrecked vehicle, and the few Anytime I reflect on my 31 combat circumstances, but I was learning fear. trees left standing in northwest France. As missions, I recall how fear was a slowly After just a few trips, you became keenly you approached the combat zone you saw developing concept for me. When you first aware that the dark cloud dead ahead in the miles and miles of tanks, halftracks, arrived and were assigned to Group and center of your unswerving pathway spells ambulances, trucks and jeeps parked head Squadron you were ready for action. You death to someone. As your tour progresses to toe on both sides of every road leading had been conditioned for the task before you have heard the cry many times, "Ban- northeast. You were down on the deck you and were ready to get on with it. The dits in the area," but today you see him for where the action was for what seemed like boredom of close order drill and the isola- yourself as he picks his victim from your hours. After a while you realized these tion from social activities had developed the squadron. You have been spared, but turkeys are just sitting ready for you to go attitude of let's get it over with or get killed, nothing can protect you from the dark in first. Now the action quickens, you see one or the other. Those preceding you into creeping specter of fear. the Rhine River below you. All hell breaks action were quick to tell you the exact Finally you decide this war is just about loose — small arms, machine gun fire, a degree you could depend on for survival. I over, and with your charmed life, you could burst rattles off the fuselage. You quickly recall when I was assigned to bed and bar- live through it all. Tomorrow the troops recall the exact time the briefing officer pro- racks that the first soldier to introduce cross the Rhine, the last great barrier on the mised you over enemy territory. Finally, the himself did so as follows: "The Sarg that road to final defeat. March 24, 1945, we are supply load is dropped and pushed out the occupied that bed before you was killed last alerted to fly and much secrecy surrounds back hatch; you thrill when you feel the week." On arrival at Hethel, 389th Bomb this effort. You pick up just bits and pieces thrust of full throttle. Flaps up, you Group, you were required to complete 35 of whispered information. Parachutes are accelerate from 160 to 190 as you turn tail missions before you were eligible for useless baggage; all flight will be just over and pray. The pilot pulls up violently as you reassignment back to the States. Everyone the treetops. In the briefing room you learn clear the high lines atop the levy on the knew or had his precise predictions of your you are dropping supplies to the troops enemy side of the Rhine. You look up from chances of accomplishing that goal. You starting just 17 seconds after the last the radio position and see the perspiration accepted those often exaggerated chances paratrooper and glider lands. We're going streaming down the right side of the pilot's and said let's get on with it. in at 200 feet with half flaps at a slow 160 face. You close your mike and scream, Our first mission to an oil refinery north MPH. Watch out for tall smokestacks. shout, curse, or do whatever is necessary to of Hanover at Misburg on November 24th, Some explanation is necessary to under- relieve the pent-up emotions. All four during which the entire Group behind us stand how this mission in which you are engines are still roaring and you are headed was eliminated by Focke Wolfe fighters, over enemy territory only minutes could be home. I certainly hope that no front line should have been a most terrifying so unnerving. I recall the complete opera- soldier ever reads this brief story, because I experience, but no, we had not learned fear. tion in slow motion. Early wake up for a would not want him to know that I will Only five fuselage holes, no one hurt, no late start. The entire mission was only five have an egg omelet at the Norwich Anglo- problem. Next, you see your first nearby hours and twenty minutes long, but it American Club tonight and reserve Royal Liberator burst into a 100 octane ball of fire seemed like ten hours waiting to see if you Circle seats at the Hipidrome. and say, "There but for the Grace of God would be shot down with a rifle or a go I." A flak hole in a gas line above the machine gun. The forming of the group Liberator Portraits If You Want To Contact A Vet, But Don't Have His Address...

I. Write him a letter and put it in an envelope.

2. Put his name on the envelope and place a stamp on it.

3. Then put this in another envelope and address to the following: AFAFC DAD Denver, Colorado 80279-500 Highly detailed paintings of any variant of the B-24 Liberator on request. 100% accuracy guaranteed in all details down to rivet seams, field modifications, etc. 4. They will mail your letter to the Approximate Size: 30" x 20". Price for 2nd ADA Members: 175 pounds (one hundred forwarding address. and seventy-five pounds sterling or U.S. dollar equivalent). Contact: MIKE BAILEY 5. Then if the party wants to contact you, 91 Waterworks Road it will be up to him. Norwich, Norfolk NR2 4DB England Tel. 0603-626257 6. Any questions, call 1-800-525-0104. 26 2ADA Film Library Revised 1-90 Generals Low The following tapes are available for rent from your 2ADA film library: and Timberlake Video tapes — VHS — (Order by Roman 11) Reminisce Remember Them I Order together $3.00 II A Village Remembers

Ill Target for Today LAi n e41061 The Men Who Flew the Liberators 2ADA Reunion 1973 — Colorado Springs 2AD Memorial Dedication — Norwich 1963 $3.00 4-16-rous 453 IV The Mission is Night Bombers — RAF Schweinfurt & Regensburg Memphis Bell $3.00 V Ploesti 93rd B.G. in North Africa The Fight for the Sky 2ADA Reunion Film Clip — Norwich 1983 $3.00 VI The Air Force Story — Vol. I — Chapters 1-8 VII The Air Force Story — Vol. I — Chapters 9-16 VIII The Air Force Story — Vol. I — Chapters 17-24 Order together $9.00 IX The Air Force Story — Vol. I — Chapters 25-26 The Air Force Story — Vol. II — Chapters 1-6 X Smashing of the Reich Medal of Honor — The Burning of Ploesti Oil $3.00 XI Some of Our Airmen Are No Longer Missing 2ADA March AFB Memorial Service, 1984 $3.00 The Superplane that Hitler Wasted — ME-262 XII The Story of Willow Run Preflight Inspection of the B-24 Flying the B-24 $3.00 (This tape donated to 2ADA by 467 B.G. in memory of Adam Soccia) XIII Battleline Series — Bombing of Japan The Last Bomb — B-29's and P-51 Documentary Target Tokyo — B-24's Narrated by Ronald Reagan $3.00 XIV Aviation Cadet Wings of the Army $3.00 XV Air War Over Europe Target Ploesti Raid on Schweinfurt Counterblast: Hamburg Guided Missiles $3.00 XVI The Last Mission - 5 days of Norwich 1987 2ADA convention plus additional camcorder scenes by several members $3.00

We also have available single copies of the following: "Winged Victory" "Twelve O'Clock High" "24's Get Back" "Going Hollywood - The War Yrs" donated by "Aerial Gunner" "Show Biz Goes to War" Hugh McLaren "Pin-Up Girl" "Battle of Britain" $5.00 each

"World War II" donated by with Walter Cronkite Roy Jonasson 10 Volumes $5.00 each

"Faces of the 2nd Air Division" Produced by Joe Dzenowagis "Eight Candles for Remembrance" $5.00 each

$5.00 per tape includes first class mailing. Please return them the same way ASAP. Order from: Pete Henry 164 B Portland Lane Jamesburg, NJ 08831 27 392nd D.G.

by John B. Conrad

An interesting footnote to history has been received from Alfonso M. D'Apuzzo (93rd BG) concerning the list of 1,722 mis- sing airmen engraved in the Court of Honor at the American Cemetery at Margraten, The Netherlands. The last name on the wall was that of S/Sgt. Seymour Zimmerman, of Malden, Massachusetts, who served on the H.H. Miller crew, 576th. This crew was reported MIA in the 21 Feb. 1944 mission Standing (l-r): gunner Chester Dobrowolski; engineer Wilson Heuser; bombardier William to Vorden Air Field. Cetin; radar navigator Arnold Dovey; co-pilot John Colvin; pilot Harrison Cassell; and Also received was a report of a letter to command pilot Harley Sather. Kneeling (l-r): gunner Wesley Durant; gunner Cecil the wife of Lt. Lee Simons, reporting his Rothrock; pilotage navigator Haskell Niman; D.R. navigator Kenneth Bevan; and radio being machine-gunned after parachuting operator Nevan Gear). from his B-24 on 31 December 1943 on a mission. At war's end, Del undertook to three ships, one of which was a very large mission to St. Jean D'Angley, north of learn what he could about the fate of his vessel, were sunk. Further, a warehouse Bordeaux. Lee was the bombardier on the crew. The letter to Mrs. Simons was sent to district north of Deschinag, the Kaffe- Thomas R. McKee crew. This was one of her because the writer found Lee's dog tags Handlesag priority three, sustained heavy the nine crews in the 578th BS to arrive in in the burned wreckage of the aircraft, damage and in the principal Bremen England in August 1943. which would lead to the conclusion that Lee warehouse district east of Deschinag, even The navigator who had trained and flew went down with the plane and some other heavier destruction was caused. Twelve missions with this crew was Del C. crew member was machine-gunned. Missing warehouses were severely damaged and at Johnson, who was temporarily grounded air crew reports show that only tail gunner the time photo reconnaissance was taken, due to an injury on the date of this fateful Malavasic survived. two large warehouses were still burning. mission and was replaced by Robert S. The third item recently received was a Railroad facilities north of the target were Dinsmore. Two other original crew copy of a teletype from General Hodges to hit heavily and considerable damage was members, ball turret gunner Charles Har- the 392nd BG on 30 July 1944 which read: caused to rolling stock. Full reconnaissance rod was interned in Sweden on an earlier "Flash report just received from Pinetree coverage has not yet been obtained and it is mission with another crew and was replaced states H2X mission to Bremen yesterday quite possible that even further damage was by Richard E. Painter on this mission; and was one of the most successful to date, caused. My heartiest congratulations on George J. Mislinski, tail turret gunner, was PRU shows several damaging hits on the this good news." KIA in November 1943 with another crew ordered primary target, and concentrations The crew credited with leading this highly and was replaced by Anthony F. Malavasic in the Deschinag U-Boat shipbuilding successful mission was the Harrison Cassell on this mission. works, a target which has always been crew in the PFF equipped B-24 number 145. Navigator Del C. Johnson was later shot priority No. One. Considerable damage is Crew members on this mission are iden- down and became a POW on a subsequent also evident to the yard facilities and two or tified in the picture. Folded Wings

93rd Ben A. Braden

389th Peter P. Barsczewski Arnold D. Haxkbarth

446th Martin J. DeVaney, Jr. 458th Harold W. Smith

466th Col. Charles F. Dibrell, Ret. 492nd Donald Prytulak Robert G. Schultz HDQ Paul W. Mueller

Correction to Winter 1989 Journal "Well, that makes it four 'aye's, two 'nay's, and one 'hey, no problem.'" Harold W. Smith, 448th — Alive and Well My apologies — Evelyn Cohen 28 Clouds Got In Their Way - The Sequel by John Kowalczuk Jr. The initial story was prepared and written The day before the crash I had been missions with Dooley who did not want to by George A. Reynolds and published on taken off the crew by the 753rd Squadron take up that position. He wanted to go page 11 in the Summer 1988 edition of the Bombardier at my request. On the same day home as soon as possible by flying off the Journal. It concerned the loss of Dooley's I had an intuition to see him for this wing tips. Get 35 in and you're on the way. crew, except Wheeler and Kowalczuk, on decision. I wanted to perform as a real I made a strong remark to the head man, their trip to the base after a training flight bombardier on a lead aircraft and not a whom I met for the first time, by stating and attempting to land in soupy weather. Togle Switch Operator. I did that on 4 or 5 either have me fly as a lead bombardier, or send me back to the Infantry to do a man's job. He did not hesitate to accept my wishes and also made me his assistant on the same day. I believe it was something more than an intuition that brought this change about. What do you think? I say, "Thank God." The boss was gone in about two weeks and I took his place. I got busy as soon as possible writing an SOP on bomb loads, etc. requested by the CO. He accepted it and advised me to check out all the crews in the squadron. In the meantime I had a couple of mis- sions as a deputy to the lead bombardier as a fill-in on different crews. Finally, I was assigned to McCartney's bunch to wind up Clouds Got In Their Way for 8 of 10 original crew members. Standing, l-r: Sgt. O.B. Nelson; the tour. I regret that I did not return home Sgt. P.A. Wadsworth; Sgt. D.P. Quirk; Cpl. R.V. Bergen; Sgt. J.J. Jones and Cpl. J.A. Phillips. Kneeling, l-r: Lt. B. Wheeler, Lt. R.J. Dooley; Lt. J. Kowalczuk; Lt. P.F. Gorman

The inevitable happened when they struck the steeple of St. Phillips Church ending their lives but the skills of the pilot and his helper avoided habitants nearby. How well I remember that tragic and sad incident of the fatal crash taking the lives of Dooley and the rest of his crew on November 24, 1944. I was made aware of it that evening by his co-pilot Wheeler, who advised me that Aikin replaced him for the training flight without stipulating reasons. Dooley and Aikin were close friends. There were wet eyes, a quiet and muddy funeral at the Cambridge Cemetery. Why wasn't John Kowalczuk Jr. on that plane? John's last combat crew of 753rd Sq., 458th BC prior to VE Day. Standing, l-r: Lt. S.D. Weakley; Sgt. J. Guerrero; Sgt. D.R. Davis; Lt. E.J. Varney; Lt. J. Kowalczuk; Lt. F. Popper and Lt. R.W. McCartney. Kneeling, l-r: Sgt. R.W. Minor; Sgt. Wm. J. Nicholson; Sgt. A.J. Boyer and Sgt. J.P. Fossa.

with them. HQ placed me as a passenger on Wilburn's aircraft on our jaunt to ZI in June 1945. I became a reservist 1st Lt. and was recalled into service Feb. 1951 until Oct. 1953, assigned to 7th Air Division in England as an Air Police Officer. Pro- moted to Captain and back to reserve status once again. After 9 years of active duty and 17 years reserve in the Infantry, Anti- Aircraft Artillery and the Air Force, I retired as Lt. Col. Before closing out my brief story I must say that I am happy and pleased to be a member of the Association. In less than r-• three years I have contacted Weakley, John's return trip home after VE Day as a passenger with this group in Arise My Love and Nicolson, Minor, Boyer, Popper, Fossa, Come With Me, which appears on page 25 of 458th Bombardment Group III. Only known members of my last crew. Then there was persons were, standing, l-r: IA. R.A. Henn, 6th member; IA. C.D. Wilburn; and Lt. R.E. co-pilot Henn and navigator Bateman of Bateman on his left. Arise My Love and Come With Me. 29 Hold a Grudge! Who, Me? by Ed Wanner

Have you ever looked back at your Then there was a Coffeeville, Kansas request that we get a few days leave in military days and thought of those people flight instructor in BT-13s who I loved to London. that you hated with a passion? How hate. He won all of the air battles by beating Many weeks before, one of our hut-mates delicious it was when everyone in your my legs black and blue with the joy stick who had finished his required missions as a barracks agreed with you, since misery when I erred in a maneuver, or if he made squadron leader was made CO of the 700th always seems to love company. It sort of me airsick he laughed uproariously. He sent Squadron. We hadn't known him very long bonded you and your new found friends me up for an E-ride (elimination ride) with or very well, but he always seemed like a together at a time when you really needed the Squadron CO, which everyone expected good guy and almost always wore a big friends. would end my flying career, but I was so smile. As a cadet in SAACC I had an upper- relaxed, having assumed that I was finished Well, when I got to Squadron Headquar- classman who wasn't exactly fond of me. I as a pilot, that I did everything right. I got ters, I leaned the bike against the wall never knew why because my conversations another instructor and as luck would have it, outside and hurried inside only to find that with him were always "Yes sir, No sir and he was the roommate of the first one. His the CO wasn't there. The orderly said I No excuse sir." Maybe I reminded him of mind was already made up to "wash me could write a note to him requesting a pass someone he disliked. Maybe my face was out" before I even got the Vultee Vibrator for my crew. The problem was he couldn't one that only a mother could love. Whatever off the ground. His approach for teaching find any paper — in a Orderly Room? the reason, regrettably, he decided to give me me something was to deliberately make me Ridiculous! Well, after searching and more his own brand of special attention. sick — and he was notoriously successful at searching I thought, "Hell, there must be When he would jump in my bay (bunk that. So off I went on my last E-ride. something to scribble a note on." At that area), to start the usual upperclassman Naturally I was completely discouraged, point one of my less inspired ideas struck me harassment, I could count on him putting me but on that last "Washing Machine" ride and I went into the latrine and got a sheet of in a "swinging brace" (exaggerated rigid with the Squadron Commander,/flew like a toilet paper. About an hour later the Tanoy attention) till I started turning blue. He was bird! I just couldn't do anything wrong. He (PA system) blared a message for me to talented at catching me breaking some rule gave me a third instructor from another report to the Squadron Commander immedi- that no one had ever heard of before. In a squadron. He must have been a merciful ately. Back on the borrowed bike, I pedaled sort of helpless anger I could only fantasize teacher, because he got me through Basic fast to go pick up the passes for my deserving punching him right on his red sunburned Flight Training with only a few gremlins crew. But how wrong I was! nose or gleefully imagine him tumbling down riding with me. My CO was sitting with his feet up on the the barracks steps. Alas, nothing like that Being a less than forgiving type, I thought desk, a cigar in his mouth, and a couple of ever happened — but my mental revenge of that first BT-13 instructor when I was buddies sprawled on chairs against the wall came later when he washed out of flight flying the "Big Ones" with four powerful in the small office. It is funny how a per- training. I always believed this would be the engines. The thought that he was probably fectly vivid image sometimes sticks in your greatest indignity that could ever befall him, still back there in Coffeeville, sitting in the memory. He was holding my note in his especially if he could have only known (or back seat of a BT-13, beating some poor hand and there was not the usual smile on his cared) that I had made it all the way through cadet's knees. I always hoped he'd fall out of face. Only his buddies were smirking as I got flight training. Naturally I wouldn't want the cockpit when a student did a slow roll! chewed out for the toilet paper note. At first him to know it was sometimes by the skin of From there on through Advanced Flight I thought my former hut-mate and now CO my teeth. Training in Altus, Oklahoma and B-24 was kidding. I saw the suppressed smiles on Some of us can remember a Tac Officer Transition in Ft. Worth, Texas (excellent the other people in the room. When I asked during our pre-flight cadet training at San instructor was a recent returnee from if this was really on-the-level, I found out. It Antonio who, as a reward to us for winning Ploesti, Major Kilgore), things went very was! I saluted and left. a parade competition, made us drill for an well. We were ordered to Combat Crew The toilet paper note might have been OK, extra hour or so on that same day. This was Training in Colorado Springs where our except at the bottom I couldn't resist scrib- to make certain that we would win the next crew met for the first time, then to the 8th bling: "Please note official stationery." one for him, our Lieutenant. Other squa- Air Force in England via the Queen Well, it was obviously the wrong thing to do drons were headed for town on passes by the Elizabeth. to a new CO that I thought I could joke time we got back to our barracks, exhausted. Time went fast and there were no more with! Oh well, what do you expect from a There was no other description that ever hassles. I guess my hostility was directed 22-year-old combat pilot and a CO who was seemed as adequate in describing him as toward Hitler and the Third Reich after maybe even younger? Yeh, I was mad as I "C.S." We usually tacked on S.O.B. just to seeing our planes go down in smoke and pedaled back to my hut with no passes. Even insure accuracy. He later got into the cadet flame and having the night sometimes shat- then, I think I realized that my warped sense flight program in class 43L, one class behind tered by buzz bombs. That is, not until we of humor had got me in trouble, but the rest ours. After we got our wings and gold bars had been in the 700th Squadron for four of the crew were innocent bystanders. we saw him on the base at Ft. Worth where months. When I got my captain's railroad tracks we were going through B-24 Transition Those were nerve racking days in some time later, as a squadron leader, my School. We would pass him on the street September 1944 and the only slight respite Squadron CO told me that I could call him when he was either walking or driving and from military worries and responsibilities by his first name again. He was a major loudly proclaim to each other what we was an occasional three day pass for the then, and I thanked him, but it never would thought of a certain TAC Officer that we crew. We had not been off base for some have felt natural for me to dispense with had had at San Antone. If his wife hadn't time and there was little doubt in my mind military courtesy at that stage. Oh well, who been with him it would have been much that the crew deserved a pass. I wasn't said I was any good at letting bygones be worse. The ultimate blow to his ego must inclined to use superlatives very much in bygones? Now, by this time, maybe, I have have been when his first crew refused to fly those days, but I knew that every member of mellowed a little bit. By the way, Johnny B., with him. We understood why, perfectly — that crew was damned good, so I was ready I still have that note. at least we thought we did. to ride a bike down to the orderly room and 30 The 445th Reporting by Charles L. Walker

After such a great time at the Hilton all owe Bud a standing ovation for the Head Reunion followed by an outstanding outstanding job he did as our 88-89 Holiday Season, it's hard to get back in the Association President. His lovely wife Mike groove of writing Journal articles, but here also devoted many hours to the cause. We goes. wish them both well and know they will Dear Bill: The responses to my questionnaire continue their outstanding support of the Two pet peeves to write about. First, the indicate that the majority of our 445th 2nd ADA. people who are nice enough to send members do not prefer a separate reunion Jim Young is having all four squadron Christmas cards but sign them with a first from that of the 2nd ADA. That's the way I patches remade (703rd is pictured on page name only. No address, no last name. Just voted because I firmly believe that our 2nd 35 of the Winter '89 Journal). He writes "I a Joe, Mary, Bill or Helen. I know 32 Joes, ADA Memorial Room in the Norwich am having only 25 of each squadron patch 27 Bills, 7 Marys and I can't talk about Library is unique to any other WWII made. These will be in the original size and Helen. Please folks, put your address on memorial in the world. It was not originally color and will cost $8.50." Write to Jim at the envelopes! conceived as nor has it been maintained as a 714 Broadway, McKees Rocks, PA 15136. Next and more important. At every singular group memorial, but rather as a I was pleased to hear from Ford Tracey 2ADA reunion we play our national memorial to the 2nd fallen. We should do during the holidays. He reports no struc- anthem at our banquet. To honor our English visitors, we also play the national nothing to fragment the 2nd ADA and the tural damage to his home in Saratoga which anthem of Great Britain. The name of the maintenance of this Memorial. I feel that is located very near the epicenter of the British anthem is "God Save the Queen" individual reunions held other than recent San Francisco shaker. We were wor- group (King). Sometime after the war of In- in reunions conjunction with the 2nd ADA ried about you, Ford! dependence, the colonists found they tend to do just that. I'm pleased that the William K. Koch asked that I include the couldn't sing the original words to their majority of you feel as I do. Let's devote following in the Journal. "On September former anthem, so someone made up a new our total effort toward furthering the prin- 1944 (Kassel Mission Day), I transferred set of words which went like this: "My ciples and goals of the 2nd ADA! from the 489th to the 445th BG. At that country 'tis of thee, Sweet land of Bill Dewey spoke briefly to our Group time I was a T/Sgt, Flt. Eng. with 11 mis- liberty..." about the Kassel raid memorial to be sions and a bail-out behind me. I completed Every year I watch with an aching heart dedicated near Kassel in August 1990. my 30 missions with the 445th on 10 March as our English friends stand in mute embar- Several survivors of that raid were in atten- 1945, but did not receive a DFC. Executive rassment as their American friends merrily dance at the reunion and met for the first Order 10189 requires WWII DFC recom- sing, "My country 'tis of thee." It isn't time together. For more information, write: mendations be submitted prior to 2 May done with malice or ignorance, but I think Bill Dewey, Box 413, 1100 N. Woodward 1951. A statement to the effect that such a rather it is thoughtless. We have sung those #224, Birmingham, MI 48012. recommendation was made for me, but not words since grade school and without I had my roster books with me at Hilton considered due to loss or inadvertence, thinking, we automatically start singing Head and left them on the table in our signed by the recommending official and when we hear that music. The problem is Group area while I attended meetings. endorsed by a higher official in his compounded when we do the same damn (Each page is a brief profile of a 445ther I command could be considered by the AF thing in England. How would we feel if the shoe were on the the other foot? Very angry am in contact with or have any knowledge Personnel Council. If anyone has firsthand would be an understatement. of.) Seymour Grossman helped by filling in knowledge of such a recommendation, Let's make it policy for the MC at our several blanks, but it was not until two would they send such a statement to me at future banquets to caution attendees before months after I returned home that I 16 Northcote Road, Westbury, NY 11590, the playing of the anthems. Let's not John Knizeski had inserted or discovered that to HQ AFMPC/DPMASA, Randolph embarrass these good people anymore. a note containing the names and crew posi- AF Base, TX 78150-6001." Good luck, Jeff Gregory tions of his fellow crew members. Robert William. 3110 Sheridan Drive Libby, William Sorgel, and Max Taylor are Pete Bradley's wife Carol writes, "I Garland, TX 75041 current members of the 2nd ADA. Now wanted to write you especially for sharing why don't you four get busy and come up John Harold Robinson's book "A Reason with current addresses for Donald Ander- To Live" with us. I read it in two sittings son, Orville Williams, William Zoller and and felt as if that crew belonged to me. The Albert Stuart? book recalled for me the feelings, the fears, Dear Evelyn: Of course we phoned, or our friends William Tumelavich recently replied to the tensions and the hope we experienced in phoned us, to hear all about the conven- our questionnaire (it's never too late) and those days. I think this book would lend tion. I felt you should hear their comments! thanked me for locating one of his ex-pilots itself to a screenplay. It has so much to Beatty said it was the best organized — he says he flew with three. He is sending particularly in character development offer, convention we've ever had! Meals served on In his contribution to the Librarian Fund. as per example the Jimmy Stewart incidents time, good food, everything went beauti- Have you sent yours in yet? Jordan Uttal and, of course, Dobbs whose exploits tend fully! And Stroup & wife were so tickled to reports that the fund is now about $340,000 to add humor. The book surely serves as a be in a hotel filled with 2nd AD people. and that the 445th is doing its share. Many true documentary of the historical events They had a wonderful time and said it was have indicated they were going to contri- of those years as well as the everyday events remarkable how you handled 1200 people! bute, but have you? If not, please do so of those times. Thank you so much for They loved every minute of it. now and do your part in getting this "last sharing this book with us. If you see the Roy is doing well now. He is having to mission" project behind us. author "Robbie" tell him I loved his learn to walk again following his broken Bud Chamberlain sent me a great picture book." hip. But he has an incentive now! He wants of himself and the plaque he presented to Well, the old clock on the wall — so I'll to attend the 1991 reunion! me on behalf of Buddy Cross. The back of see you later, hopefully in Norwich this Mildred & Roy Jonasson my head looked pretty good. Anyway, we summer!

31 Dear Bill: notes with. Being there made me want to My name is Tom Hernandez, Sr. I was in know more. the 93rd BG, 409th Sqdn., stationed in He seldom spoke of the war, and being Hardwick from Jan. 1944 to Sept. '44. I young, I was not interested enough to ask. I flew 34 missions in three different aircraft. I guess it is only when age inspires new ques- am a new 2nd ADA member, having just tions, and a source is no longer available, joined in September during the 50th that our minds become inquisitive. Recently Anniversary of the B-24 Convention in San and suddenly, I want to know everything Diego, CA, my hometown. about my father's locations, acquaintances, My purpose in writing this letter is experiences, etc. during that time in his life. twofold. First, I am trying to locate two My parents did not meet until after the war, missing crew members. I can only give you therefore my mother has only been able to their names and the states they come from. provide bits and pieces, in the form of I know it isn't much to go on, but it's a letters he wrote to his mother, pictures, start. I am looking for Joseph Jones, nose medals, etc. gunner, of Cottondale, Florida, and Although details are sketchy, let me share Delmar Davis, of Louisiana. with you what I've come up with, so far: Secondly, I am enclosing some photos Samuel Weldon McNair, of Stapleton, that I would like to pass on to whoever can Georgia, was born January 27, 1920. He identify them. I'm sure somebody will attended Officers Candidate School in appreciate having them. I have no idea who Miami, Salt Lake City, and maybe Wichita. Dear Bill: the people are in the photos, except that He was affiliated with a weather squadron. Enclosed is a photograph I took while they were all in the 93rd. He left the United States May 27, 194?, on wandering through the B-24 at the Hilton Tom Hernandez, Sr. the Queen Elizabeth, and arrived in Head Reunion. I have no idea who he is or 5033 February Street Scotland on June 3, 194?. He helped where he came from, and you may believe it San Diego, CA 92110 transport by air persons being sent to the was not posed, but this is a shot of a man United States from the continent. A plane who is excited! To me, it epitomizes the in some of the pictures was named "Merrie spirit of the 2nd Air Division Association Hell." He spent some time in France. He reunions. was promoted from Captain to Major in Felix B. Leeton April of 194?. He was in the 8th Army Air 7325 Bonanza Place Force, 2nd Air Division, 384th Bomb Greenwell Springs, LA 70739 Group, Squadron 17, Group C, 546th Bom- bardment Squadron, 1st Bombardment Division. If there are any sources that might be helpful in gathering information, or that would offer direction to me in this quest, I would greatly appreciate any assistance. I am particularly interested in corresponding with and perhaps meeting someone who may have known my father. Marilyn McNair Purvis 190 Carlton Terrace Athens, GA 30606

Dear Bill: Can I see in both the Journal and the 8th AF anyone identify these photos? Dear Evelyn: News different people's personalized + + + + Our 2 AD reunion was an event to be license plates. I thought 1 would send you a long remembered — Hilton Head an Dear Bill: picture of my license plate, as I believe it is excellent choice, fantastic program, lavish Realizing that several years have passed unique in that I have all three: the type accommodations, superb food and most since my father received correspondence A/C, Bomb Group, and 8th AF insignia. important, a grand feeling of fellowship — from your address, I am writing, There may be others, but I have never seen Thank you! This did not happen without nonetheless, in of somehow finding one just like it. hopes proper planning and surveillance. Your about Harry Rawls out more his life during World War expertise is appreciated! 11. He died leukemia and of in 1985, I miss The "All American" enjoyed hosting him terribly, been much having very a multitudes — now I better understand how "Daddy's Girl." it won the war! According to some of the Dear Bill: In April of 1986, I had the opportunity to stories I heard at the airport — why did it My brother Theodore R. Zimmerman visit "Merry Old England" and to feel the take us so long? was co-pilot on the "Daisy Mae" of the same charm that was reflected when my Soon we hope to join the plane on 448th Bomb Group, 715th Squadron. I father spoke of that country and its people. weekend sorties throughout Florida. We would appreciate any information on the While there, 1 wondered if perhaps I might have a great communication potential with January 7, 1945 mission (Achern). "Daisy be walking some of the same streets that he this plane. Perhaps 2AD material might be Mae" was listed MIA. Paul O'Neil, pilot; had walked, seeing some of the same sights available for handout, etc. if the Associa- Theodore R. Zimmerman, co-pilot; Robert that he had seen, etc. It was almost like a tion so desires. J. Wilkins, navigator. Thank you. pilgrimage for me. I remember feeling so Bill Eagleson Gene G. Zimmerman sad on the way home, knowing that when at 34 Brookdale Road RD #3, Box 512 last I had a frame of reference for his Natick, MA 01760 Kutztown, references of time spent in Great Britain, PA 19530 that he would not be around to compare 32 Dear Bill: Dear Bill: Dear Bill: For several years I have been researching Sometime back in November I forwarded Thanks for the latest Journal; as usual an the air operations by the Eighth Air Force information on Mrs. Anne Brusselmans. excellent job well done. I'd like to say thank on May 28, 1944, when attacks were Now I am enclosing a photo showing Bob you to my many 2nd Air Division friends launched against the German oil industry. Tucker (445th) and myself (389th) presen- and acquaintances who sent me cards and The Second Air Division had a compara- ting Anne with the 2nd Air Division first messages for Christmas. They were most tively easy day, as it lost "only" three of the Peace Award and the 2nd Air Division welcome and appreciated, but far too many total 32 bombers on this day's mission. Honorary Membership plaque. for me to answer individually. These three were 42-110045 "Banana John Leppert (491st) and the two of us We've had an excellent year at the Barge" of the 44th BG (Gurman crew), will be looking after Mrs. Brusselmans on Memorial Room with a good flow of 42-110074 of the 389th BG (Eley crew) and behalf of the 2nd Air Division. She has fully visitors throughout the summer. It's been 42-50346 of the 445th BG (Campbell crew). recovered from her illness and says she is nice to show them round and to hear the I have heard stories of several crew looking forward to joining us again. many appreciative comments. It has also members of the above B-24s, but no one Ralph Leslie been noticeable that the Memorial Room is had a picture of the bombers they went being increasingly used by local people and down in. Is there anybody who can help me they often comment to me what a beautiful Out in this matter? and useful Memorial it is. The assembly ship of the 458th BG was For myself, I am very proud and subject to an accident prior to takeoff and honoured to be working there and I shall was destroyed by fire on Horsham St. continue to do my best to keep the Room Faith. Does anybody know the cause of the neat and tidy and somewhere that any fire and the crew who were supposed to fly former 2nd A.D. member can be proud of. it? Best wishes for the coming year, and Of course there were casualties aboard looking forward to seeing all my old friends bombers who did return to their bases that and meeting new ones in July. day. One of them was T/Sgt. Elbert E. Tony North Gilmore of the 389th BG (Bell crew). Does 62 Turner Road anybody know members of the Bell crew? I Norwich, Norfolk would like to hear from them. NR2 4HB Last but not least, I would like to hear England from men who flew on this particular mis- sion; it may have been a "milk run" for (14): Ralph Leslie, Anne Brusselmans, and several Bomb Groups, but I still would Bob Tucker enjoy hearing from participants and anyone Dear Bill: ± on who has more information concerning May I am trying to trace two men who flew 28, 1944. 1st Lt. Elmer Pitsenbarger's crew, 856 BS, 492 BG at North Pickenham from June to Ivo M. de Jong August 1944. The crew usually flew a B-24J Nettelhorst 6 44-40146 (5Z-M) named "Lucky Strike." 7414 HH Deventer Dear Bill: Bless Charlie Freudenthal for his box (1) 3288237 Sgt. Hank Stec from Long The Netherlands gunner "Did You Know?" in the Winter 1989 Island, New York. Hank flew as tail crew's early ± Journal which mentioned both ground and and was wounded in one of the crew again. air crews. That started me thinking of the missions and didn't fly with the 453rd BG, 735th Sq. folks. He was replaced by S/Sgt. Bradford Barber Hamburg There was M/Sgt. Charles B. Stephens who was killed on Mission 65 to when they crashed on landing at base. Dear Bill: whose charge "Butch" made 62 missio,ns (2) Sgt. Cyril 'Red' McQuade from Pitts- With regard to the 466th Bomb Group without an abort. Also M/Sgt. John C. burgh, PA. `Red' flew as port waist gunner article by Elwood Nothstein appearing on Randall, who at one point was Crew Chief up to the 492nd going on to "carpetbagg- page 20 of the Winter 1989 Journal, I of two planes at the same time — ing," the crews had to lose a gunner due to enthusiastically second the statement that "Dumbo" and old #452 — together they the nature of the special missions. `Red' John Doskocz and crewmen Joseph Roth had 56 missions without a mechanical was transferred to the 786 BS, 466 BG at and Peter Miller did a superb job in main- failure. The Air Force thought that was Attlebridge where I think he served until the taining the aircraft "Slick Chick" pretty good, so it awarded John the Bronze end of the war. throughout her 117 missions in 1944 and Star. He was 20 years old at the time. If any readers remember these men or the 1945. This is not meant to upstage anyone else, crew, could they please contact me at the My crew was assigned this plane after our for I firmly believe all the Bomb Groups address below. Thank you. first ship was banged up, named her "Slick had good men who fit the category of Russell Ives Chick," and flew our first mission in her in "extraordinaire." 38 Millmoor Road early April 1944 over Brunswick Germany. It didn't stop with mechanical people. Meltham We had to give her up when we transferred The sheet metal guy sure had his work to Huddersfield HD7 3JY to the 784th Squadron in July 1944 as a lead do; and the other specialists, instruments, West Yorkshire crew. I can't recall having a single problem propellers, electric, armorers, turret England with this plane in the three months that she maintenance, ordinance, and others were served us. all doing a 125% effort so that we who were My late wife and I had the pleasure of air crew at the time could do our job. having dinner with John Doskocz and his One can call it cooperative, or coordi- Dear Evelyn: wife at the Dayton, Ohio reunion in 1973 nated, or disciplined. Use any description, Here's my dues for 1990. Aida and I have and I expressed my thanks then. Kudos to but let's face up. It was one helluva missed the last several reunions, but Roth and Miller, too. magnificent effort, and successful! hopefully we'll catch up one of these times. Joseph W. Tikey R.W. McClure Sure appreciate all you guys — and girls — 851 Green Lantern Rt. 1, Box 328 do and all the work put into the Journal. Ballwin, MO 63011 Bluemont, VA 22012 John Hildebran

33 Dear Bill: Both Tony and Phyllis Hunt were very Dear Mr. Chamberlain: Having maintained a "Letter to the helpful and gave us directions to both As a relatively new member of the Editor" silence for 70 years, I have Shipdham and North Pickenham. At Ship- Second Air Division Association I have accumulated a question or two and a com- dham, Ms. Richards, who as a young girl enjoyed reading the last two Journals and ment or three. First, thanks for stirring the lived on the farm during the war, was kind the old nostalgia has been building up and a memories and providing current informa- enough to show us some of the buildings. crazy idea keeps nagging at me. tion through your fine publication, the As you know, they are vine covered and On the 29th of January 1944 I flew tail Journal. overgrown, but you can still see the (fading) end Charlie to the whole Eighth Air Force, My niche in aviation history was "A" mural on the club wall. There is not much lost all four superchargers over the target Flight Commander, 409th Squadron, 93rd left at North Pick; it's now a big turkey and elected to go home on the deck. I spent Bomb Group, 20th Combat Wing, Second farm. the next three hours fighting for my crew's Air Division, 8th Air Force. With such a I was a tail gunner on Bob Meagher's life and ended the day bellying in at Dep- impressive title, you might think that I was crew. We were assigned to the 44th BG (506 ling, England in practically no visibility really "Somebody," but in reality (and BS) in September '44 and then transferred weather. contrary to Yeager's Luck and Gann's to the 491st BG (855 BS) after they lost 15 Somewhere between Leige and the chan- Fate), I was filling a very small role in planes on one mission. We finished the war nel, after being battered from fighter God's Providence which saw me and my as lead crew and were given a nice new attacks in the rear, a lone FW 190 pulled up entire crew through our complete tour of airplane to fly home when it was over. The level at nine o'clock and just sat there. With combat — prior to D-Day — without a picture of the 491st lead plane going down all armament, except the nose turret, and single Purple Heart. Six of my first ten that appears in the 2nd AD Memorial radios out and wounded crewmen nagging missions were at the helm of the "Teggie Brochure was taken by our waist gunner, at my conscience, I made a decision. Ann" — a plane that responded to Ted Skip Fulmer, on a mission to Harberg on 17 I called my bombardier and told him if Timberlake as the first B-24 to fly over January '45. We were made lead crew the the fighter rolled into an attack we were France, to Ramsey Potts over Ploesti, and following day. going after him. The fighter did and I did to me on the Heavy Water Mission over J.E. Johnston and we had a treetop dogfight in which we Norway on 18 November 1943. After ten 210 Rivington Street were the victor. missions I received my own new B-24 "D" Iselin, NJ 08830 I would like to make claim to being the (the best model B-24 ever built), which I only four engine pilot to challenge a fighter named "Chief Manatee" after my Crew to a duel and win. How do I proceed? Chief and my home county in Florida. E. Warren Bruce Though I flew all my combat missions in 4300 Latham Street B-24s, I have equal first-pilot time in B-17s Riverside, CA 92501 and am uniquely qualified to comment on their comparative worth as bombers of their -4- time. The B-17 was first born, prettier, more stable and had a PR team with the Dear Bill: most squeak. The B-24 was far more Having just finished reading the epic, maneuverable, would fly faster and further "Those Brave Crews" by Ray Ward I had with a greater bomb load, and had the best to write and express my thoughts. engines in the Air Force. I never lost an It is a masterpiece, and I am thankful to engine on B-24s in training or in combat. him for being able to put it all together just One question if anyone can answer. as it happened, "Ploesti Raid of August Someone said that B-17s participated in the 1st, 1943." mission to Norway. I didn't know that I wasn't a crew member at that time but B-17s could carry leaflets that far, much knew the air crews from our 565th Sq., less bombs. Did they really fly that mission? 389th Group. Later flew 30 missions. W.D. Woodson The book also told me many things that 8020 Bayshore Road happened on that mission that I was Tony North and his Birthday Cake Palmetto, FL 34221 unaware of until now. Again, I say to Ray Ward, thanks for a job well done! Russell R. Leslie Rt. #1, Box 23B • Lot Gil Bowling Green, FL 33834

Dear Bill: For the many 2ADA friends who have Dear Bill: asked to be advised of my wife Mary's In looking through the Journal, I must surgery and recovery, we are pleased to admit to recalling memories of long ago, advise that the operation on her left knee even the unpleasant; sort of a nostalgic was a complete success and she is recovering return to yesteryear! nicely. By the time you read this, we hope It was interesting to recall that the 492nd that she will BG had been My crew and the "Teggie Ann" no longer require crutches and, transferred to the Composite hopefully, will not require the use of a cane Command, and that the 491st had taken any longer. over the North Pickenham site, just prior to We appreciate your concern and look my joining the group. I find my copy of the forward to seeing you all again at a 2ADA 14th Bomb Wing History, written by then Dear Pete [Henry]: Convention in the near future (not Lt. Colonel W.B. Taylor, to be of great On a recent trip to England, my wife Norwich). help in rekindling old facts. Marie and I happened to arrive at the Pete & Mary Henry Alfred Norwich Memorial Library on 26 Simonini 164B Portland Lane 421 September in time for Tony North's 60th Matadero Avenue Jamesburg, NJ 08831 Palo Birthday. Enclosed is a photo of Tony with Alto, CA 94306 his B-24 Birthday Cake! ± -4- ± 34 Dear Bill: Dear Evelyn: Dear Bill: Our crew had its reunion in Memphis, In the Second Air Division Association My name is Jay Ingle, a member of the TN on 20 & 21 October 1989. The picture Journal, nothing is ever said or written Air Force Gunners Association. Our Assoc- 1987; shows the six crew members who were about ground crews or medical such as base iation is rather new (1st reunion, June present; two have died and two couldn't hospital. All is about Bomb Groups. If it 2nd reunion, June 1989), and I am trying to come because of health. The two widows weren't for the ground crews and base reach all gunners and ex-gunners so they were there. Abdullah Corey wore his flight hospital, some planes would not have too can learn more about our group. suit from 1944 & 45 to breakfast one day. flown. Anyone interested in becoming a Sure was wonderful getting together after Paul J. Hutz member, please contact me at the address 44 years. below. [I couldn't agree with you more. Not Three of the crew are members of the 2nd Jay E. Ingle enough is written about ground personnel. ADA. I brought some back issues of the 818 West Floradora Well, the only reason I can give is that next Journal and the rest seemed interested. Fresno, CA 93728 to nothing is ever written by ground person- Keep up the fine job for the Association. nel and I cannot print what is not written. Matelski Lorn Solution? That's the easy part. WRITE TO 106 Pleasant Street ME! We haven't received muchfrom ground Dear Bill: Elkhorn, WI 53121 personnel, but we have printed everything Enclosed are two pictures taken at Hilton that has come to us. Air crews are well Head. One is a picture of seven of eight aware of the fact that many of them would survivors of the Kassel, Germany raid who not be alive today if it were notfor excellent were in attendance. One, Joe Skomro, ground maintenance on the planes. The ball engineer on the Web Uebelhoer crew, is not is in your court. This is an invitation for all pictured. ground crews to take part in the production Also enclosed is a picture of two of any Journal — Ed.] members of our crew. Myself and the pilot, Web Uebelhoer, had not seen engineer, Joe Skomro, after we finished our missions. Dear Bill: The reunion was great — good location, I would like to take exception to Jim fun and fellowship. Davis who was writing for Les Dahn of the Don Whitefield 489th BG. 1434 Martin Drive Back row (l-r): Al Chauvin, Lorn Mate!ski. He states that the 489th BG was the only Houston, TX 77018 Front row (l-r): George Gibson, Abdullah unit that converted from the Liberator to Corey, Donald Christopher, and John the B-29 Super Fort. Howenstein. Let me state as a member of the 93rd BG stationed at Pratt, Kansas, that the 93rd BG, the 458th BG, the 466th BG and the 467th BG were all converted to B-29s at least until after the war was officially over. Dear Mr. Chamberlain: The 93rd BG went on through B-50s, My wife and I recently had the good for- B-47s, and to B-52s. tune of visiting Norfolk with a former Tech Also it states in Roger A. Freeman's Sergeant of the 467th BG, Clement W. "The Mighty Eighth" that the 93rd BG was Brown. We spent time at the Memorial the only wartime organization in the USAF Library in Norwich, and also dug through that has not been inactivated since original the remains at Rackheath where the 467th formation. was based. Thank you for letting me set the record I am not a veteran of the 2nd Air Divi- straight. sion (I was an aviation cadet on "hold" at Crew members visiting at Hilton Head after Bill Martin Williams Field, Arizona when the war 45 years. (l-r) Don Whitefield, navigator; 901 Whitman Drive ended), but I have the greatest respect for Joe Skomro, engineer; Web Uebelhoer, Temperance, MI 48182 the kinship and feeling you people have pilot. toward each other and for Norfolk. I was deeply impressed with the library, and your aspirations for other lasting reminders of the USAAF in England. In recent days I have read the current Journal of the 2nd Air Division and want to tell you that the remarks you made July 1 at the Friends Fair put it all in fine perspec- tive. Short of the Gettysburg address it is one of the finest talks I have read. Now, as they say: You need not be a member to participate! Therefore, you will find my check to the library attached, trusting you know the shortest route to the treasury. God Bless the 2nd Air Division. R.S. Bosworth, Jr. Bristol, Rhode Island (Who says our Memorial is not having an Survivors of Kassel raid attending reunion Uebelhoer, Reg Miner, Bill Dewey, Don impact!?!) at Hilton Head, SC in November of 1989. Whitefield, Henry Dobek. (l-r) Jim Dowling, Gerald Kathol, Web 35 Dear Bill: the Air Corps in 1943 from the Army Tank ing its head. He would like to know if any During WWII this was my father's 33rd Corps. I am accumulating records and of these men survived the war and were for- or 34th and last mission. He was flying an history of my father's military career for tunate enough to get back home and who extra volunteer mission and was NOT flying family record and memory. Please write to they were. If anyone remembers something with his regular crew who did not fly that me if you have any knowledge or memories similar to this, involving the Hanover- day. My father: 1 Lt. Gale B. McGowan of 1 Lt. McGowan. Thank you. Brunswick area and to POW camp in early (0-764405). Dennis B. McGowan 1945, please let me know. I will be glad to On 27 Dec. 1944, a B-24J Liberator 3065 Timberline Road give you the former Luftwaffe officer's ad- (42-50491 F) of the 446th Bomb Group, Prescott, AZ 86301 dress. 707th Bomb Squadron, ditched in the (602) 771-0571 Harry R. Fletcher English Channel a few miles from Manston 2057 Commodore Street RAF Base near Dover, England. The target Montgomery, AL 36106 that day had been Kaiserslautern, Ger- (205) 264-5272 many, but mechanical problems forced To All 2ADA Members: "491" to turn back. The B-24J was Do you remember going to POW camp in Luftwaffe Lt. assigned to the 705th Sq. but was on loan to February 1945? A former Dear Bill: crew of 9 American the 707th crew. They went down in icy recalls that c. Feb. '45 a Please enjoy these congratulating im- emergency landing on or choppy sea. The Liberator broke upon airmen made an thoughts for the Hilton Head Reunion. Be Brunswick/Waggum airfield. The next pact and both sections sank within minutes. near proud of your efforts, for they prevailed were ordered to My father, 1 Lt. Gale B. McGowan, co- day the Lt. and two NCOs and we all quietly enjoyed the philosophical DULAG pilot, was declared KIA along with six take the crew south by rail to a changes — "All American" responded and airman had others. Three survived: the pilot, Wallace LUFT camp. He heard that one we must continue with this project. they Malone; the bombardier, Jack Heuser; and committed suicide in the night so When Art & I first started this task, little never the ball turret gunner, T. Strohaker. After 5 would only have 8 men to go. He did we realize it would contribute so deeply hours Air/Sea Rescue had almost given up heard anything further than that. to so many. I miss working with Art, but the search in dense fog when Malone fired a Enroute south they slept on the floor of a perhaps we might find a sunken Spanish tracks ahead were flare and got the rescue boat's attention. railroad station because galleon for us to resurrect. Your deter- no further. Since December 1986, I've located destroyed and they could go mined Journalistic efforts certainly were the bombed the town, all- Malone and Heuser and both related the That night Allies factors that gave our project proper status. incident to me. I've learned Strohaker is clear being given c. 6 a.m. The Lt. heard Bill Eagleson now deceased. I have also located or that a southbound train was sitting about a accounted for seven of my father's original kilometer south of town, but, when they + + + crew (No. 329); they also have now visited went to leave the station and go down the and corresponded with each other for the street, the way was blocked by 10-12 SA Dear Evelyn: first time in over 40 years. men who intended to shoot the prisoners I'm writing for both John and me — a I would like to ask that if any 2AD for the previous night's bombing. The Lt. very sincere thank you for your efforts in member or reader knew or knew of my and the NCOs drew their pistols, and with planning and executing another Second Air father Gale, I would enjoy hearing from the crewmen, made a run for it across a Division Association Convention. you. I'm also still seeking two members of field, and eventually reached the south- We have not been able to attend for a few his original crew, the navigator, James E. bound train about 700-900 meters to the years so we were most pleased to be part of Cunningham (0-711345) and the radio south. The Lt. was later sent to the Eastern this year's — and pleased to have a brother- operator, Joaquin P. Ortega (18121128). Front, was a POW for some time, and can- in-law and sister share in the Cunningham's last known location was not remember the details in this event. He "happenings." Dallas, TX; Ortega's unknown. I would thinks he took the men to Wetzlar or Our friends and family remark on what a like to contact these men. Oberursel. We think the RR station where special group the Second Air Division is Gale McGowan was a graduate of WFTC they overnighted might have been Got- and the camaraderie that exists. Thanks for Class 44-A, Jan. '44, AAF Pilot School, tingen, Wetzlar or Kassel, but it could have all your effort. Douglas AAF, Douglas, AZ. He trained at been any place between Brunswick and the Kay Faulds March Fld., CA 1/44-2/44 and Tonapah Frankfurt area. 77 Kennedy Road AAF until 6/44. He was from Iowa and The Lt. is anxious to mention an incident Manchester, CT Parco, Wyo.; a graduate of Leadville, in which a few Germans tried to act respon- Colo. High School 1936. He transferred to sibly in a time when the whole place was los-

SECOND AIR DIVISION ASSOCIATION BILL ROBERTIE Non-profit Org. P. 0. BOX 627 U. S. Postage IPSWICH, MASS. 01938 PAID Ipswich, MA 01938 Permit No. 74

AARON & SALLY SMILTZ 389TH 03/22/90 SCHU018 T272613028 3C89 SCHULTZ 330 NE 26TH AVE *306 BOYNTON BEACH FL 33435-2037 Address correction requested Forwarding & Return Postage Guaranteed