December 2020 TH AF NEWS Volume 20 Number 4 Voice of “The Mighty Eighth”

Wishing you love, peace, and joy now, and always! December 2020 th AF News Voice of “The Mighty Eighth” OFFICERS 8th AFHS National Office President Jean-Paul Favrais Anne A Marek (Rick) 2021 Managing Director/Editor La Haye-Ouisais N. 85 2 Logan Ct Debra D Kujawa (Joseph) 35310 Breal Mendham, NJ 07945 68 Kimberlys Way France (201) 960-1783 cell Jasper, GA 30143-4769 [email protected] (973) 543-8832 home (912) 748-8884 [email protected] [email protected] CHIEF OF VETERANS Vice President INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS & EDUCATION

Eleesa Faulkner 2022 REPRESENTATIVES 58 Drake St Joan Garber 46 Coquina Ridge Way Pueblo, CO 81005 Ormond Beach, FL 32174 (719) 252-9170 (386) 672-5359 [email protected] Jeff Hawley [email protected] 3 The Stiles Treasurer Godmanchester, CAM INSIDE THIS ISSUE Anne A Marek (Rick) 2021 PE29 2JF 2 Logan Ct United Kingdom Front cover: "Moonlight Serenade" by Mendham, NJ 07945 011 4477623 28575 artist, Roger Stuch, depicts a scene fondly (201) 960-1783 cell [email protected] remembered by airmen: dancing away the (973) 543-8832 home hours between missions with a beautiful local girl. [email protected] Paul Bellamy 6 Station Road Contacts...... 2 Secretary Holme, PTE Editor’s Notes...... 3 L. Travis Chapin (Ginny) 2023 PE7 3PH President’s Briefing...... 4 17303 Euler Road United Kingdom Treasurer’s Ledger...... 5 Noteworthy...... 6 Bowling Green, OH 43402 011 4477623 28575 News From Across the Pond...... 7-11 (419) 575-4337 [email protected] [email protected] Hard Work, Determination...... 12-13 Black Cat...... 14-15 John P Gilbert Chapter News...... 16-19 Director: Glen Ann Virtual Reunion...... 20-23 Dr Vivian Rogers-Price (Mike) 2021 42 Chapel Street, Cawston TAPS...... 24-30 117 Charlton Rd Norwich, Norfolk How About It?...... 31 Rincon, GA 31326 NR10 4BG (912) 667-4478 cell United Kingdom (912) 988-1837 office 011 4416038 71124 The 8th A F News [email protected] [email protected] The News is dedicated to the memory of Lt. Col. John H. Woolnough, founder of the Eighth Air Force Historical Society in 1975, Chapter/Unit Liaison BELGIUM and Editor of the “News” for sixteen years. It is Joseph P Keeley (Andrea) published quarterly and is the official news maga- 1335 Belmont Ave Edouard Renière zine of the Society, a 501(c)3. The 8th A F News North Haledon, NJ 07508-2842 is distributed to members of the Society and is not Avenue Henry Dunant 5--Bte 25 for public sale. (973) 495-3404 cell 1140 Brussels Belgium (973) 423-4854 home [email protected] Home offices are located at: [email protected] 68 Kimberlys Way Jasper, GA 30143-4769

2 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) Editor’s Notes

hen Franklin Delano I have found they all have in com- fighters. They Roosevelt first became mon, was a shared experience of fear. worked non- Wpresident in 1933, he The immortal John Wayne para- stop fixing delivered what was to become one of phrased FDR when he remarked, battle-dam- the most famous speeches in history. “Courage is saddling up anyway.” aged planes His words continue to resonate even In my opinion, that is what makes the and kept them today, with both comfort and power Greatest Generation, truly great. in the air. as he said, “…So, first of all, let me The attack on Pearl Harbor ignited a They watched their best friends die assert my firm belief that the only spark of patriotism in our country— and prayed they would make it home. thing we have to fear is...fear itself even among a population still healing And they did it day, after day, after — nameless, unreasoning, unjustified from economic recession and unem- day… terror which paralyzes needed efforts ployment. Those who made it home never for- to convert retreat into advance. In Young boys—many lying about got any of what they experienced, yet every dark hour of our national life a their age—hurried to enlist in the most have never said a word. leadership of frankness and of vigor war effort. These were not young I’ve never known a veteran who has met with that understanding and men—they were teenagers leaving wanted to be referred to as a ‘hero’. support of the people themselves football fields and corn fields for They will quickly remind you, the which is essential to victory. And I East Anglian farms turned air bases. “…real heroes are the ones who am convinced that you will again These were children who had never never made it back.” give that support to leadership in ventured away from home, and they But there is something to be said these critical days…” were suddenly half a world away. about the ones who “…saddled up Fear. They were determined to save the anyway.” Having had the privilege of getting world. My love and prayers to all of you! to know—and love—so many WWII And they did. veterans over the years, the one thing They climbed into bombers and Deb

Please JOIN the Eighth Air Force Historical Society TODAY!!!

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December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 3 President’s briefing

Anne Marek President & Treasurer

reetings everyone! wish us to address. Our contact information appears The 8th Air Force Historical Society’s first on page 2 of AF News. Our lines of communication “Virtual” 46th Annual Reunion on October are always open, and our motto is “transparency” in G24, 2020, was an extremely all our activities. successful webinar. I hope Thank you all for your most of you were able to support of our Officers, tune in on Zoom for many of Directors and Advisors. It is our speakers, programs and greatly appreciated. WWII veterans’ panel. We were also able to stream live Virtual: I am also including the on Facebook. It was a global occurring or existing Financial Statements end- event with people watching ing October, 2020, for your information. This includes in , Europe, and online the Society’s Profit and Loss Hawaii. Facebook report- Statement and Statement of ed that 13,800 viewed our Financial Position. In exam- webinar and 8,200 engaged ining these reports, you will by asking questions or in notice that our investment some way posting a message. All in all, a very suc- portfolio is still growing since my last report to you cessful program hosted by Debra, our Managing in September. This is very encouraging, and I am Director. If you missed it, you can go to our pleased to be able to report this to all of you. Our investment portfolio and the income it generates Facebook page, click on Media then Videos and continues not be used to fund the Society’s adminis- watch it in its entirety. It will also be uploaded to trative expenses and daily operating costs. our website. You’ll enjoy it. Take a look. Our financial advisor, Mr. Gavin Natelli, calls During these difficult times, your Board of me with monthly updates on our financial position. Directors is still remaining active and communi- He continues to make sound decisions as to what cating through Skype. Our last meeting was in late equities we should purchase to continually grow our October after our virtual reunion. We have created account. an Ad Hoc Advisory Committee comprised of Steve As a member you can personally help bring rev- enue into the Society by registering with Amazon Snyder and Paul Tibbets IV. They are actively work- Smiles when shopping on line. It’s quick and easy ing on membership recruitment and retention and to do. So far this year, Amazon Smiles has generat- communicating with our bomb groups and chapters. ed $114.03. While this is not a large amount, it does Look for more to come in the next several months. help. Thank you all for your participation. You can Please reach out to me, Debra, or any of the other find the link on page 6 of the Magazine. Board members should you have any matter you

4 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) Treasurer’s ledger

Respectfully submitted, Anne A. Marek President and Treasurer, 8th AFHS

If any of you have any questions regarding any of our financial statements, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. My contact information is on p. 2 of every issue of the 8th A F News magazine.

Remember,

“Our focus is on our veterans, preserving their legacy, and keeping the memories alive!”

Anne

9:19 AM The Eighth Air Force Historical Society 11/15/20 Statement of Financial Position Accrual Basis As of October 31, 2020

Oct 31, 20 ASSETS Current Assets Checking/Savings 1017 · Oppenheimer & Co 225,999.03 1040 · Bank of America Checking Acct. 8,884.34 1042 · Bank of America Savings Acct. 1,325.70

Total Checking/Savings 236,209.07

Total Current Assets 236,209.07

TOTAL ASSETS 236,209.07

LIABILITIES & EQUITY Liabilities Current Liabilities Other Current Liabilities 2050 · Payroll & Taxes Payable 2051 · Payroll payable 2,896.57 2052 · FICA & withhold taxes payable 2,936.22

Total 2050 · Payroll & Taxes Payable 5,832.79

Total Other Current Liabilities 5,832.79

Total Current Liabilities 5,832.79

Total Liabilities 5,832.79

Equity 3200 · *Unrestricted Net Assets 192,618.57 Net Income 37,757.71

Total Equity 230,376.28

TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 236,209.07

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 5

Page 1 Noteworthy

8th AFHS 47th Annual Reunion

Savannah, GA October 27-31, 2021 Reunion Hotel: Savannah Riverfront Marriott Details will be in the March 2021~ 8th AF News

Exciting New Initiatives in Education Coming!

Watch for Dues Renewal Notices in the Mail... YOUR Support has NEVER been MORE IMPORTANT!

Don't forget: Membership into the Society makes a great gift for ANY occasion!

Or, simply type the URL below into your browser: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/59-1757631 *Please submit ALL articles, etc. at least 45 days PRIOR to the date of the next issue of the 8th AF News to reserve space; content must be received 30 days prior to publishing date! Remember: submission does NOT guarantee publication. Due to size constraints of the magazine, I am very lim- ited in publishing non-solicited material, however, I will review for consideration. Please submit ma- terials via email [preferred] with hi-res photos attached in jpg format. NEVER send originals--they may not be returned. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. I appreciate your help immensely. DDK

6 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) News from Across the Pond...

‘Sighted Sinkers…Sank Same’

by Suzie Harrison American Battle Monuments Commission Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial

‘The Red Cross, with its clubs for recreation, its cof- Expeditionary Force - sadly over 400 ARC workers lost fee and doughnuts in the forward areas, its readiness their lives. to meet the needs of the well and to help minister After Pearl Harbor, Marshall declared that ARC to the wounded has often seemed the friendly hand would be ‘…the sole non-military organization to oper- of this nation, reaching across the sea to sustain its ate with an expeditionary force…’. However, the focus of the organization during WWII was somewhat differ- fighting men.’ ent. While ARC still maintained its traditional role of General Dwight D Eisenhower, 18 June 1945 providing nurses for medical facilities in all theatres, such as the 125-bed Harvard Hospital, on the outskirts of Salisbury, England (which after the war became The Common Cold Research Institute), there was new empha- sis. The US Government and Army realized that flooding Britain with military personnel created a problem – what would they do in their spare time? They turned to the ARC. The then ranking commander in Britain, Gen. Chaney like to claim that ARC would become ‘…the largest hotel chain in the world.’ ARC created postcards for the troops to mail home. One GI wrote on the back, ‘… Mom … This is a picture of the Red Cross Clubmobile ‘Angie’ Petesch, 36; Chicago Art Institute, Chicago that visits our camp about every week … It is operated by our own Tribune feature writer; arrived in Britain May 1943. American girls. They certainly are a swell bunch.’ IWM: FRE 748 Fitje Pitts, 26; Secretarial College, Rhode Island Department of Social Services; arrived in Britain June hen we think of women in wartime, we think 1944. of them waving to columns of men heading Emily Harper Rea, 32, College, Indiana, PA overseas. However, some women went to war W to two state governors; arrived in Britain January 1943. too. That’s where the American Red Cross comes in. ‘Liz’ Richardson, 26, Downer College, Milwaukee, The International Red Cross was founded in 1864 to Marketing at Schuster’s Department Store; arrived in aid the casualties of war without regard to nationality. Britain July 1944. The American Red Cross (ARC) was formed in 1881, What made these mature, college educated, career and the United States joined the International Committee women, so determined to help with the war effort over- for the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1882. During WWI, ARC seas that they volunteered for the American Red Cross? mobilized twice; once in 1914, under ICRC auspices; Newsreels flashed the words, ‘Now more than ever, your then again in 1917, when the United States entered Red Cross is at his side’; the voiceover began: the fray, to support medical services for the American

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 7 News from Across the Pond...

‘Our Red Cross Clubmobile girls must be single, maidenly virtue was upheld by the MPs who patrolled college graduates, and over the age of 25. They their corridors! are hand-picked for their After disembarking in Glasgow, they took trains for looks, education and per- London, where they were given their assignments, some sonality. They are hardy to the ARC Clubs - the recreation centers in towns and physically and have a cities but with rooms like a hotel (there were eight in sociable, friendly manner.’ London including Rainbow Corner); some to permanent Aero Clubs on air bases with games rooms and libraries, Pictured right: Elizabeth Richardson – moved on and where they would deliver coffee and sandwich- from Britain to France, but died in a plane crash - Normandy American Cemetery A-21-5 es to air crews undergoing post-mission interrogation; others to Clubmobiles (converted Green Line buses) which served coffee and doughnuts to the troops at their The smart ARC uniform, featured in the films, was of camps, accompanied with music (provided by Victrola light blue skirts and jackets with heeled shoes. The shirt phonographs), dancing and singing. As Fitje put it, ‘… I was modestly buttoned to the neck and closed with a red couldn’t be nearer the war …’ cross pin. The army worried about sending delicately nurtured young ladies to a war zone, lest they become Left: Liz Richardson hauling a coffee urn in the masculine - WACs and WAVES were rarely posted over- bitter winter of 1944 at Camp Dane Ghyell (Barrow- seas. Mothers worried too, about who they might be in-Furness, England). Her more utilitarian uniform consisted of RAF WAAF slacks (ARC issue), GI shirt, mixing with – all of the ARC staff used the army officer RAF Battledress top, Combat jacket, a German-style facilities. cap, and paratrooper boots, with as many clothes as Their basic training had begun at Hurst Hall, possible layered underneath. American University, Washington, and lasted four weeks. Once in the field they became, Lectures included history, procedures and policy of the ‘the girls’, and the troops, air crew Red Cross and the American military, leadership and and officers, ‘the boys’. Many of the group management, table games, crafts, dancing and staff, like Angie posted to Aero Clubs, sports. Depending on their proposed posting the women found they had to set the facilities up received extra, specialist training. Angie particularly from scratch, decorating and then managing the clubs; enjoyed her session at the FBI shooting range – it wasn’t doing jobs that might have been handled by ‘the help’ every girl who got to fire a Thompson submachine gun. back home, but they proved their mettle. In order to give She also got to shake the hand of Eleanor Roosevelt and the boys a taste of home, staff were expected to navigate hear her inspiring speech, rousing them to do ‘…the thing the British rationing system and keep an inventory to you think you cannot do’? provide cakes and hamburgers for teas, dances and cel- ebrations. They shared many of the same privations as Right: RSM Queen Mary in New York the men, including cold, wet and mud, a ‘biffy’ dug for Harbor. In peacetime she carried them, all with smiles on their faces and a dash of lipstick. 3,000 passengers, but with re-designed interiors could carry 15,000 troops. For the Clubmobile girls - Liz and Fitje - gone were the Hitler called her ‘Grey Ghost’ and put smart uniforms. ARC girl, Gretchen Schulyer pondered, a bounty on her – he would award the Iron Cross to whosoever could sink ‘Whoever thought that my MA degree would prepare me her. NARA, NAID 521011 for this?’ Liz wondered the same, ‘Damn glad I have my degree – it helps so much with making doughnuts.’ The two liners, Queens Elizabeth and Mary, were Photos at top of next page: Emily Harper Rea – loved by all as mother, too fast to join the Atlantic Convoys and could out-run kid-sister, girlfriend - seen second left with Queen Elizabeth, was senior staff enemy U-boats. This ensured the ladies had the safest assistant at the Bedford ARC Club. Glenn Miller was based in Bedford, and we and fastest crossings possible – five days to Britain. Their understand that Emily presented him with his Major oak leaves and he gave her his captains bars as a keepsake. (Incidentally, Liz saw Glenn Miller and

8 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) News from Across the Pond...

‘I don’t know why, because you are as far away from America as we are, but your being here is like holding hands with some- one back home'.

Photo right:‘Flak House’ Knighthayes Court, Devon, in April 1945 IWM: FRE 10811

his orchestra with the 82nd Airborne in The ARC Leicester.) When Emily was killed in a also staffed 16 plane crash, the story goes that those bars were found in her purse, and sub- country houses or sequently buried with her (Cambridge ‘flak homes’. For USAAF combat air crews in the UK, American Cemetery E-6-69). home leave was impossible. ‘So, the doctors responsible for their well-being believed the next best thing would be The detail that we have Rest Homes, using the tranquility, comfort and freedom is due to the fact that the from military routine achievable at English country hous- girls were all letter writers es or hotels. Run by the ARC, each serviceman was enti- and diary keepers. Liz is an tled to at least one rest period away from the horrors of example of the different writ- war, during their 25-30 mission tour.’ The girl’s role was ing formats. She wrote pieces to supervise recreation and dining - and to listen. for the Red Cross Clubmobile newsletter, ‘The Sinker’. None of these were easy jobs, but they were vital. To her parents, her enchanting, chatty letters were very During WWII, ARC operated 2,000 recreational ser- upbeat - full of joie de vivre. To her Marine brother, vice facilities overseas. These were staffed by 5,000 Red she wrote of military matters, mindful of the censors. Cross personnel with around 140,000 local volunteers. However, her diary entries were more realistic and dark- 86 Red Cross workers lost their lives; 52 women and er. 36 men. Including Emily Harper Rea, six are buried at After ‘sweating out’ (apparently an English phrase) a Cambridge American Cemetery: mission, Fitje wrote in her diary of the air crews, ‘They are all our friends and we are here to be their friends Virginia Frances Montgomery, 45: … everyone is at their worst and also at their best.’ In 5 July 1945 D-2-72 another entry, ‘…it is usually raining in England and often it is welcome as it hides the tears that you try to (left) Dorothy A Stretch: keep back as you listen to the fears and troubles…’, and 18 September 1943 C-4-33 ‘…we are glad that their mothers don’t know what they go through…’. In similar vein, Liz wrote, ‘… to hear Hugh H Foster: these kids tell of their experiences and to see their faces 18 November 1944 D-3-82 which are oddly old’; and as the 82nd Airborne departed for Holland, ‘The boys still laughed and joked, but their faces streamed perspiration’; to brother John, ‘I’ve seen John S Disosway: our fellows in full gear just before they hopped off for 25 May 1943 E-2-56 Holland and I’ve seen the fear in their eyes – not for the unknown – but because they know what’s in front of (right) Margaret Jeffery: them.’ The girls knew it would not be over by Christmas. 3 September 1945 D-5-68 One of their boys said of the women volunteers,

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 9 News from Across the Pond...

Meanwhile, in Switzlerland...

Editor's note: The following is a "virtual" locate other addresses using the crew interview with Rolf Zuagg who, happens to list. own and manage his own very unique museum. I hope you enjoy! ddk Initially, I took a chance and wrote letters. Sometimes I didn’t hear any- Why don’t you tell us a bit about thing, but sometimes an answer came yourself… suddenly, months later. At times there My name is Rolf Zaugg, and I live in a were even photographs, diary entry historic farmhouse in Utzenstorf, in the copies, or reports enclosed. Canton of Bern, Switzerland. Over the course of time, a lot of How and/or why did you become nice relationships with war veterans involved in warbirds? (Swiss internees), their children, grandchildren, and by now even their The first time that I came into contact great-grandchildren, developed—as with Warbirds (restored airplanes from well as with the American military, WWII) was the beginning of the 1990s, who consult with me from time to time when I traveled to England with a friend. as a specialist for WWII flights which The B-17 fascinated me, of course, terminated in Switzerland. because I knew that one of them had an emergency landing in Utzenstorf. Do you have a favorite warbird? When our local historian, Barbara Kum- The B-17 Flying Fortress. The B-17F mer, invited American war veterans Battle Queen did a forced landing in (Swiss Internees) to the 50-year anni- the town where I live on August 17th, versary of the B-17 bomber in 1993, I 1943. Thanks to its shape, the B-17 is started speaking with them and met the a beautiful airplane and very robust, president of the Swiss Internees Asso- consequently saving many of the crew ciation, Robert (Bob) A. Long, who had members’ lives. been part of an emergency landing in The B-24 Liberator. It’s the most fre- Dübendorf. quently-built World War II airplane The stories of those who had experien- in the US and was used as a long-dis- ced emergency landings, and crew mem- tance bomber, reconnaissance and bers who had been detained in Switzerland, interested transporter plane (multi-functional). me greatly; and I began to do the research. Thanks The P-51 Mustang. It’s the Cadillac of the sky, with a to Bob’s help, I was able to find out the whereabouts lovely design and strong motor power, not to mention of many of the former crew members; I was able to

10 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) News from Across the Pond...

the unmistakable engine sound. and/or the places where their fathers, grand- fathers, etc. had been detained. What are some of the highlights you have expe- rienced in being part of the warbird community? • B-24 Commemoration in Bätterkinden, initia- tor, manager/organizor • During the Swiss Internees' Reunions in Switzerland • Movie 100 Years of Aviation in Swit- 1993/1996/1998, we visited the zerland, filmed at my museum emergency landing sites and • Movie 100 Years of Swiss Air Force, the places where they had been filmed at my museum detained. I have also been pri- vileged to welcome individual • Movie Emergency Landing, filmed at visitors as well. We go to the my museum specific landing sites and see where they were detained. It • Provided numerous authors with artic- can be very emotional for both les, witness reports, and photographs of us. over the years • B-17 Flying Fortress debris Can you please tell everyone a bit recovery at the Greifen Lake more about your museum and how in 2000, engine, propeller, people can get in touch with you? gun-turret, parachute, radio fre- I own a unique B-17 museum, which quency gauge, etc. shows the history of foreign aircraft in • B-17/B-24 parts recovery in Switzerland from 1939 to 1945, especi- the Swiss Alps ally the emergency landings and crash histories of the US Army Air Force in • Bomber exhibition 60-year Switzerland during WWII. This inclu- Anniversary of the Bomber des the B-17 forced landing in Utzens- Landing in Utzenstorf in 2003, torf, the B-24 forced landing in Bätter- initiator and manager/organizer kinden, and the B-24 crash in Jegenstorf, and much more. • Attended the Swiss Internees' Reunion in Florida in 2004, All of the correspondence and material decision for the petition to from the Second World War that I’ve achieve POW status for Swiss gathered over the years is on display at Internees, bestowal of POW my private B-17 museum in Utzenstorf. decorations at the Pentagon, USA, in 2015 If you would like to reach out to Rolf, please feel free to connect: • Accompanied test flights of the DC-3 and P-18 Rolf Zaugg Ruttistrasse 7, CH-3427 • Accompanied the C-47 ferry Utzenstorf flight from England/Caen/ Switzerland Zürich for the Convoy to Ph# 011 41 3266 51887 (from US) Remember in 2016 Email: [email protected] • Various visits from relatives Facebook: https://www.facebook. of Swiss Internees where we com/rolf.zaugg.921 visited forced landing sites Website: https://www.b17museum.ch

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 11 Hardwork, Determination, and a Lot of Luck

by Jack D. Tolliver, Jr

s was typical of many training in Nevada. He problem…the crews that young men in the 8th, decided en route to had occupied those bunks Amy dad, 1st Lt. Jack stop in Las Vegas. Not had not made it back Tolliver, grew up during the Great surprisingly it wasn’t from their last mission. A Depression in a small farm town long before his money harsh and somber reality. in southern Illinois. His family, and his trip were almost High school During one mission a like many, struggled to get by. gone. A pit boss who graduation. large chunk of flak pierced The family had a large garden and was watching saw a the top of his helmet with- bee hives to help make ends meet. young soldier who was literally out causing injury. Remarkably, His mother—in her early years— tapped out. He asked Jack where on examination, the piece of rode a horse several hours a day he was going. After he heard the to teach in a one room school- story the pit boss relieved the house. dealer and started dealing the Jack joined the army shortly out cards himself. Each time telling of high school. While in training Jack to “double down”. Jack he heard about an exam to join quickly won his money back. The the Army Air Corp. He took pit boss then told him “soldier the exam, passed, and he began cash those chips and go home” training as a cadet bombardier. which he did and was forever Just before Jack was to be sent grateful. overseas he had earned enough When Jack arrived at Thorpe- Crew member standing in the hole (from money and time to get home from Abbott airbase as a bombardier outside the plane) from battle damage. for the 100th Bomb Group, his crew was directed to a barrack metal had stamped the number and told to take any bunk. Upon of his bomb group. Jack made entering the barracks, the crew the Louisville newspapers after a saw clothes hanging from beds reporter heard Jack stating he real- which appeared to be occupied ly didn’t think the German guns and were concerned they may be were quite that good. taking someone’s bunk. Another mission was not so Dad far left. They were informed that wasn’t a lucky. A German fighter that 12 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) looked like it might have been tossed out; in desperation, the ing in action, surviving emergency hit dropped down and then came gunner even threw out his watch. landings, and 19 combat missions up under the aircraft. A two-foot Remarkably, they managed an completed. He took with him hole was blasted in the belly and emergency landing in England. numerous decorations for his ser- roof of the Flying Fortress by Some of his missions were harder vice including the Distinguished the German fighter. The blast than others. All the missions— Flying Cross. caused the oxygen tanks on board except two—were heavily defend- Like many veterans, Jack did ed, particu- not discuss his experiences. It larly , would be well over sixty years , later that he would finally talk and the naval about the defining moments in his shipyards. life, as well as the heartache. One of the Jack, with his combat pay as well hardest parts as the GI Bill, managed to study of Jack’s job engineering at the University of as lead bom- Louisville where he met and mar- bardier was ried his college sweetheart. the decision He worked for two local compa- not to drop nies for over 50 years. his bombs He never took a sick day or Home on leave with his younger brother who still considers him when he missed a day of work. "my hero." couldn’t visu- He sent 5 kids to college. alize the tar- Jack was married for 67 years to explode wounding the gun- get. This meant his crew and 10 until his wonderful wife passed. ner. Jack, as bombardier sitting other bombers would be forced to He will be marrying a remark- in the nose of the plane, recalls make another pass over the target, able lady, Dottie, his new love of the German fighter pilot came allowing the German defenders to the past few years. so close that they stared at each zero in on them. If you ask, Jack will tell you the other. Despite the fact there was After every mission, Jack would injured crew, no supplemental go behind the barracks to say a oxygen, two engines lost, and a prayer of thanks and far too often, third engine smoking, Jack and cry over a lost friend. the crew completed the bomb It was a hard reality to see a run. They then began stripping plane disappear carrying a friend. You were never told whether they had survived or died. He still remembers to this day the real heroes of the war. The ones who never came back. Jack finally departed England at the ripe old age of twenty-two. You were considered an old man Dad and Dottie--it's never too late! by “air” standards if you were Dad's plane that was battle damaged. over twenty-five. Most of the crew were Jack’s age. secret to his success: hard work, the plane of ANY excess weight. He had endured being mistaken- determination, and a lot of luck. That meant guns and ammo were ly reported to his family as miss-

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 13 Black Cat the last mission

by Martha Curtis

I will never forget the image of “Black Cat” being hit “and going down”...William Proppe, pilot of Crew #588, 785th Bomb Squadron., 466th Bomb Group, Station 120, Attlebridge, England. William Proppe shared his memory of the mission to Saltzburg, Germany, on April 21, 1945, in the book “Attlebridge Arsenal”- a history of the men and aircraft of the 466th Bomb Group by Earl Wassom and Chris Brassfield. In the years since that fateful day, countless veterans have echoed his comment and raised the same question about that mission when it was finally recalled because of weather over the target. “Why did the formation leaders choose to fly directly over Regensburg, Germany, when everyone knew the end of the war was at hand?” Perry Kerr, a tail gunner on the Richard Koch crew (#792) and witness to the crash of the Black Cat”, was still asking that question when he attended the last 8th AFHS reunion in St Louis. different lead crews in the 784th Squadron from This was also Perry’s last of many reunions he Attlebridge, home of the 466th Bomb Group. In the attended, as he died last February. historical record, it has the distinction of being the The B-24, “Black Cat”, had been flown by seven last B-24 to be lost during the war. In 2005 when

14 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) the Post Office issued a memorial B-24 postage but only the bombardier and a gunner survived and stamp, the image of the “Black Cat” was the one were held as POW’s for a few weeks. The 10 other appropriately chosen to be used. crewmen were killed, burned up in the plane or When Crew #487 arrived at their plane, the falling to the ground without parachutes. “Black Cat”, on April 21, 1945, they all complained The 466th Bomb Group flew only one more mission about the terrible weather. The other 28 crews that on April 25 before the war ended. Then in May, were scheduled to fly that day agreed that it was at the same time families back on the States were about the worst weather they had seen. The target celebrating V-E day, the telegrams from the War was a railroad bridge at Saltzberg, which would Department began arriving at the homes of the be impossible to find in such weather or any other families of the Farrington crew. At first it said visual target for that manner. This late in the war "MIA", but by summer it was clear that all but two it was dangerous to choose an alternate target, as were never coming home and were “KIA”. Several the Allies were so far advanced into Germany, they of these family members later joined the 466th Bomb would risk bombing their own troops. Despite the Group Association as a way of remembering their weather, the mission was a “go” for the “Black lost loved ones, sons, husbands, brothers, uncles. Cat” and the Richard Farrington crew of 12 men One of these family members is Thomas Childers, including, Louis Weiser, as their command pilot nephew of the radio operator, Howard Goodner. and riding in the co-pilot’s seat. He was leading He is the author of the book about the “Black Cat”, the 96th Combat Wing on this mission, which had “Wings of Morning: The Story of the Last American been divided into three groups. This positioned Bomber Shot Down Over Germany in World War the Farrington crew and the “Black Cat” in the II.” This is an excellent book, and essential reading middle of the formation. Despite the meteorologist’s for anyone who wants to study the air war over prediction, the weather actually worsened over the Europe and have it brought to life on a personal continent. When the ’s scouting level. force reached the target area, they realized there was The mission of the 466th Bomb Group Association no other choice but to recall the mission. In the lead is to honor and keep the memories alive of these 10 aircrafts throughout the formation, both navigators men of the Farrington Crew, along with the other and mickey men made the same calculation: if they 223 who served at Station 120, Attlebridge, and made a right turn as they aborted, it would bring gave their lives in 1944 and 1945. the whole formation directly over Regensburg. They’d been there many times before. It was an The Farrington Crew area of heavy flak batteries because of the fighter aircraft production there. But when the navigator Louis C Weiser 787th Squadron Operations KIA and pilot in the lead plane began to turn away to Richard J Farrington Pilot KIA avoid Regensburg, the command pilot ordered them John A Regan, Co-pilot KIA to remain on the same heading, bringing their group John A Perella, Jr Navigator KIA directly over the town. William Proppe records that John D Murphy Mickey Navigator KIA when his navigator, Thomas Levens, even called the George E Noe Pilotage Navigator KIA lead plane to warn them not to make that turn, he Jerome Barrett Engineer KIA “caught hell for breaking radio silence.” According Howard G Goodner Radio Operator KIA to Harold Read, Crew #690 pilot, who was flying John C Brennan Waist Gunner KIA off of the right wing of the Farrington crew, he saw Robert E Peterson Tail Gunner KIA the “Black Cat” take a direct hit between #1 and #2 Chris Manners Bombardier POW engines. Flames began coming out of the bomb bay, Albert Seraydarian Waist Gunner POW the left wing then folded, the plane went nose up and then over on its back, exploding about 1000 feet Martha Curtis, 466th BGA daughter, Crew #633, below. Various witnesses saw either 2 or 4 chutes, Navigator, Lieut. William G Horney

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8th Air Force Historical Society reached out to one of his fellow Mike began consulting and now Georgia Chapter West Point classmates and gradu- supports Spirit of America as an Atlanta, GA ates, Army Colonel (retired) Mike executive coach through Solid Brent Bracewell Rauhut and invited him to be our Steps Strategies LLC. Prior to President speaker! starting his LLC, Mike served in Mike Rauhut numerous leadership and senior The GA Chapter once again Executive Coach & Consultant advisory positions within the enjoyed a wonderful luncheon, Senior Advisor to the CEO, Departments of Defense and State. gathering, and presentation at our Spirit of America Mike transitioned from serv- usual location; The 57th Fighter Adjunct Faculty, ing as the Director of the U.S. Group Restaurant, which is not Naval War College Army Peacekeeping and Stability only an appropriate venue reminis- Fellow, Halftime Institute Operations Institute (Carlisle, PA) cent of a WWII Airfield Officers Board Member, VetStarts where he led the institute in pro- Club, but a gracious host serv- Author: Solid Steps Through moting the collaborative develop- ing the best menu of delicious Shifting Sand ment and integration of peace and meals. If you are ever in Atlanta, stability capabilities across the U.S. you have to visit this restaurant. In mid-2019 Mike transitioned government, international organi- This month’s program was courte- from 30+ years of uniformed ser- zations, and the broader communi- sy of one of our newest, but most vice in the U.S. Army and began ty of interest. Prior to his Carlisle loyal members, Tony Briggs. Tony exploring his “second half” as a assignment, Mike served as the is an Army West Point Graduate, Fellow at the Halftime Institute. Chief of Staff for the Military Staff former Infantry officer, and just During one second half probe, Committee at the U.S. Mission to plain great American! Tony has 16 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) Chapter newS

the United Nations (UN) in New Naval Postgraduate School in mission. York City. In this capacity, he was Monterey, California, and a Master A theme that was apparent responsible for both U.S. repre- of Arts in Strategic Studies from throughout Mike’s book and pre- sentation to the UN Military Staff the Naval War College in Newport, sentation, is gratitude, faith, and Committee and the provision of Rhode Island. inspiration of our Nation and the advice to both the Chairman of the Together with his wife Sandy, ideals/idea behind it. These being Joint Chiefs of Staff and the U.S. Mike has two children: Hannah the same ideals as the ones our Permanent Representative to the (22) and Jacob (18). Mighty Eighth family members UN. Much of that counsel focused Colonel Rauhut’s presentation from the Greatest Generation lived on UN peacekeeping and U.S. was a combination of highlight- out in their service: that our great policy regarding its application on ing he and his Fathers Book country is worth living, fighting, behalf of the Joint Staff and the “Solid Steps Through Shifting and dying for. Office of the Secretary of Defense. Sand”, which is the “…story of Mike’s presentation was a positive A 1989 graduate of the United one immigrant family’s journey message worth hearing during States Military Academy at West from war-torn Europe to a land of these challenging times America is Point, Mike commissioned as an promise and opportunity.” (Also, currently facing. Infantry officer and subsequently please see below narrative on his As if this luncheon could commanded at the platoon, com- book.) While Mike highlight- actually get better, in addition pany, battalion, and brigade level. ed many aspects of the book, he to inviting this great speak- In addition to his command billets, focused most of his talk on his er for us, Tony Briggs, gen- Mike served as a Combat Analyst parents’ liberation by the US Army. erously PRE-PURCHASED for the Army’s Training and His presentation included a power COPIES OF MIKE’S BOOK TO Doctrine Command, the Chief of point detailing his parents’ stories GRACIOUSLY GIVE TO THOSE Operations for an Army Division, (with an embedded video of his ATTENDING THE LUNCHEON! a senior Observer/Trainer at the mother recalling her memories We had approximately 30 in atten- Joint Readiness Training Center, of that experience). No one loves dance not including the 57 Fighter a Faculty Member at the Naval our county like first generation Group Staff who also attended and War College, and, more recently, Immigrants, and Mike’s presenta- were captivated by Mike’s presen- the Assistant Chief of Staff for the tion both inspired us and made us tation. International Security Assistance all proud of our wonderful country. Thank you, Tony, for your gener- Force in Kabul. In these and other In addition to speaking on his osity and for inviting Mike. Thank capacities, his assignments led him book, Mike also regaled us with you, Mike, for a motivating, enter- across the U.S. and to locales as stories of his combat experiences taining, and informative presenta- varied as Germany, Saudi Arabia, in Tikrit, Iraq, as his battalion was tion. Thank you Georgia Chapter Turkey, South Sudan, the Central an integral part in the capture of Members who keep our Chapter African Republic, Korea, Iraq, and Saddam Hussein. As a side note, active and thriving! Afghanistan. Immediately prior to the forward of Mike and his dad’s The GA Chapter meets monthly his assignment to the U.S. Mission book is written by LTC (Retired) for a luncheon (second Saturday to the UN, he also served as a Steve Russel (also a former mem- of the month) at the 57th Fighter Chief of Staff of the Army Military ber of US Congress) who is author Group Restaurant at Peachtree Fellow at the Council on Foreign of the book, “We Got Him!” - A Dekalb Airport, Atlanta, GA. Relations in New York City. Memoir of the Hunt and Capture In addition to his military train- of Saddam Hussein. So, you can If you are in the area, please ing and specialty courses, Mike see that Mike was able to speak reach out to me, Brent Bracewell, obtained a Master of Science in from first-hand knowledge of that 678-416-5749 and attend! You Operations Research from the very successful and high visibility will be among family.

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 17 Chapter newS

8th Air Force Historical Society NY State Southern Wing Chapter Joseph “Pat” Keeley President By David C. Levitt Membership Manager

Recently, Irving Goldstein, 99, a distinguished and Republic. We express our deep appreciation and grat- decorated WWII veteran in our chapter was award- itude for your contribution. We will never forget the ed the French Legion of Honor at his assisted living bravery of American WWII servicemen, of which you residence in Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York. are, that France owes so much.” Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the Irving was moved to tears upon receiving his award French Legion of Honor is the highest award France surrounded only by close family, friends, staff, and bestows. While there are thousands of WWII veter- guests. Due to COVID restrictions, the ceremony was ans who have documented missions in France—to be quite intimate, but extremely moving. eligible, they must have participated in at least ONE Just over a year ago, on September 17, 2019, Irving of the four French campaigns: Normandy, Southern was honored by the New York Yankees for his 90+ France, Northern France, or the Ardennes—Irving years as a Yankee’s fan, as 40,000+ fans cheered. participated in all four. These veter- [Read the story in the December 2019 th ans receive the FLOH at the rank of issue, 8 A F News] th Chevalier (Knight) but, it cannot be During D-Day, the June 6 , 1944, inva- awarded posthumously, so Irving’s cere- sion of German-held continental Europe, mony was extremely special to all of us. Irving flew as assistant crew chief on Presenting the award on behalf of a C-47 cargo plane—he was actually a France, the Consul General of the volunteer replacement for a crew chief French Embassy in Manhattan, Jérémie who refused to fly on this dangerous first Robert, spoke with palpable emotion and combat mission. C-47 crew chiefs were gratitude, thanking Irving for his role airplane mechanics who also functioned in the liberation of France. Four Cold as a flight engineer while keeping their War era veterans from the Federation of crew chief title. They were responsible French War Veterans of New York were for the maintenance and repairs on the on hand for the presentation of the award and ren- ground for the plane to which they were dered a well-deserved salute to Irving. The compan- assigned. Their assistants helped with work on the ion certificate which accompanies the French Legion ground and only flew combat missions as a crew chief of Honor and is signed by the president of France, replacement. The crew chiefs were required members Emmanuel Macron, reads, “Warmest congratulations of the five-man flight crew that flew combat missions. upon being awarded the Knight of the National Order During flights they monitored the aircraft’s mechanical of the Legion of Honor by the President of the French systems and performed any emergency repairs needed

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while in flight. As an aside, my own father was an major battle damage during the crossing of the Rhine airplane mechanic during WWII as well. Irving and I River campaign through Belgium in March 1945. have had many interesting conversations! During the closing months of the war in Europe— In the post-midnight skies over the Normandy April into May 1945—Irving and the troop carrier coast, Irving’s 439th Troop Carrier Group led other groups continued airlifting gasoline to Patton’s tanks C-47 groups. Irving remembers, “I heard the ‘ping as they advanced through Germany. Now, on return ping ping’ as German bullets tore through my aircraft flights, in addition to carrying wounded troops and cabin.” Flying over the drop zone for paratroopers at released POWs, their C-47s also carried ill concentra- 110 mph, Irving quickly and proficiently—ignoring tion camp survivors to hospitals in Paris. Speaking the danger—kicked a 100+ lb machine gun and its Yiddish, Irving had a touching encounter with one of parachute out of the cargo door, then released supplies. the survivors. Next, Irving assisted the 101st Airborne paratroopers The war for Irving was very personal. Many of his exit the plane—being careful not to fall out himself. close relatives perished in the Holocaust. Also, during As a side note, prior to an Airborne mission, the cargo combat missions he saw several C-47s get shot down door of the C-47 is removed so that paratroopers can with men whom he knew on board. safely jump unimpeded. Before being discharged from the military, Irving Irving also recalled that upon leaving the drop zone, received the French Croix de Guerre. During the past German machine gun fire had severed the rudder con- few years, Irving has continued to receive addition- trols on his C-47, rendering the plane difficult to steer. al medals and honors including the French Jubilee However, the skilled pilot made it back to base safely. of Liberty medal from the 8th Air Force Historical The 439th TCG earned a Presidential Unit Citation for Society, two medals from New York State recognizing their superb performance during D-Day. For his skill his military service, as well as a medal from our own and courage under fire, Irving was awarded an Air local chapter. Medal and promoted to crew chief sergeant, then after- With all these awards and honors bestowed upon wards to staff sergeant. him, Irving still retains his humility. “I feel very Remembers Irving, “Daily we airlifted thousands honored. Many Americans and other Allied soldiers of gallons of gasoline to the front line so General were lost in liberating France during WWII. I am Patton’s tanks could keep up their rapid advance deeply grateful that the French President, the Consul during the northern France campaign. On return General, and others still remember what we did.” flights, we carried wounded soldiers and just-liberated Americans and other Allied POWs.” Please check our website for current information Two months after D-Day, Irving’s troop carrier unit which could change subject to our pandemic situation: was one of the few that served in southern France. Irving’s crew—along with several other crews— blogs.ny8thswcafhs.org helped save the day during the . According to Irving, “We had to fly several missions We meet from 11am to 3pm if you will be in the through heavy anti-aircraft fire to airdrop urgently area and are interested in attending, please contact Pat needed ammunition, supplies, and food to the belea- Keeley [info on p.2]. guered American troops surrounded by Germans in the key Belgian town of Bastogne.” Once, while flying in a mission over the Hope to see you there! during Operation Market Garden in September 1944, Irving’s unit flew so low that the air crews could see Photos previous page. Top: Irving Goldstein, center the muzzle flashes from the anti-aircraft guns the of the photo surrounded by family, friends, and staff Germans were firing. Irving was awarded a second immediately following his ceremony. Bottom: Irving Air Medal for actions he took when his C-47 suffered relaxing during another great conversation!

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 19 46th Annual "virtual" Reunion October 24, 2020

very year since the found- ing of the Historical ESociety in 1975, the Board of Directors has hosted an annual reunion. Sadly, the “physical” reunion which was planned for Memphis, TN, October 21-25, 2020, had to be canceled due to the ongoing pandemic caused by Major General Mark Mick Hanou has been interested COVID-19. Weatherington is the in WWII aviation since childhood However, by combining current Commander, Eighth Air Force, and spent much of his life help- communications technology with and Commander, Joint-Global ing at air shows here and “across social media, the Society was Strike Operations Center, the pond”. able to hold a “virtual” reunion Barksdale Air Force Base, He has developed a breadth using ZOOM and live streaming Louisiana. “The Mighty Eighth” of knowledge of the air war in via Facebook! The following is is responsible for the service’s Europe, has edited books and a an overview along with screen- bomber force and airborne TV documentary, and is respected shots (courtesy of long-time nuclear command and control by other historians for his atten- reunion photographer, Craig assets. The Joint Global Strike tion to detail. Dubishar) and a brief summary of Operations Center serves as Mick is President of the 91st BG, our first ever, virtual reunion! the central command and con- loves to help out the WWII vet- trol node for all operations erans, hear their stories and, most within Air Force Global Strike critically, keep their history alive. Command, orchestrating warf- ighting and readiness activities for the Commander, Air Forces Strategic. General Weatherington has a very personal connection to the 8th Air Force. He and his team created Anne Aubry Marek, president a special video for our virtu- and treasurer of the Society, al reunion that focuses on the kicked off the reunion. Her unique and enduring legacy the Jeff Duford was the lead cura- father was a pilot with the 493rd 8th Air Force. tor and project manager for the BG stationed at Debach. After Mick Hanou and Jeff Duford Memphis Belle Project. He has flying his 35 missions, he was gave an incredibly eye-opening been a curator and historian at able to come home. Anne, like presentation on Delta Rebel 2, the National Museum of the US many of us “next gens” in the the plane they determined was Air Force since 1998. In that Society, feel that by honoring actually the first to complete 25 time, he curated numerous exhib- one veteran, we honor ALL who missions in the ETO. its across the Museum, worked served—including our dads. closely with the Museum’s

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Restoration Division on more er. son, daughter (son-in-law) and than 60 aircraft projects, inter- Yvonne lives in Pennsylvania precious grandson living in the viewed for national and interna- with her best friend (who is also area. tional television productions, and her husband). Together they have helped develop a rationalized air- three children, three grandchil- craft layout and storyline for the dren, and a labradoodle. Museum’s exhibit galleries. We were extremely fortunate to have three, top-notch authors as presenters during our virtual reunion.

A graduate of UCLA, Steve Snyder lives in Seal Beach, California. In 2009, he retired from Vision Carole Webb Slater is an edu- Service Plan (VSP) after a 36 cator and community speaker. year career working in sales and An author of several books sales management. He then began including Letters from the Heart his quest to learn more about the Yvonne Caputo is a former 1943-1946 as well as published World War II experiences of his teacher who taught in the Erie articles in national magazines and father, pilot Howard Snyder, and Pennsylvania Public Schools for newspaper publications. the crew of the B-17 Susan Ruth. 18 years. She has also been the Professionally, Carole worked It became his passion, and after head of human resources at a as a program director for a 4 ½ years of dedicated research, retirement community, a corpo- statewide disability program resulted in his book, SHOT rate trainer and consultant, and at Vanderbilt Kennedy Center DOWN, which has received 25 a psychotherapist. She has a of Vanderbilt University in book awards. masters degree in education and Nashville, TN. A member of numerous World in clinical psychology. Her book, Since retirement, Carole has War II organizations, Steve is Flying with Dad, is the story of given numerous book presenta- past president of the 306th Bomb the relationship with her father tions and currently teaches a pop- Group Historical Association. through his telling of World War ular five-week workshop on How He keeps very busy making II stories. to Write a Memoir at various PowerPoint presentations to all Yvonne has always been a sto- locations in the middle Tennessee types of organizations and attend- ryteller. She has used stories to area including Vanderbilt Osher ing air shows around the country widen the eyes of students, and Learning Institute. signing copies of his book. to soften the pain of clients. It’s She lives with her husband in His 13 minute documentary, her stories that garner her rave Thompson’s Station, Tennessee, "Shot Down", was a powerful reviews as a presenter and speak- and is grateful to have an adult addition to his presentation.

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 21 46th Annual "virtual" Reunion October 24, 2020

Lynn David is the son of sentation, Mick Hanou again Joseph Haenn [467th BG] came Lt Clayton David who, at age joined in to speak briefly about to us via a short video interview 24, was co-pilot of a B-17. his mother’s role as a Dutch by Yvonne Caputo. It was a per- When returning from a bombing “helper” during the war. He fect way to end the day. mission over Germany, Clayton stressed how grateful the Dutch bailed-out of his severely dam- were to the Americans for liberat- aged plane over Holland on ing Holland. January 11, 1944. He evad- After the “formal” presenta- ed capture through Holland, tions were concluded, we were Belgium and France and crossed then joined by two, WWII 8th the Pyrenees on April 15, 1944. Air Force veterans: Teddy Clayton retired as a Lt Col after Kirkpatrick [379th BG] and over 20 years in the Air Force Reserves. Lynn’s mother, Lenora or Scotty I was honored (and somewhat as she was known, took as her terrified) to be the ZOOM host “Mission in Life” to locate hun- for this event. We had a couple dreds of evaders and encourage of bumps here and there, but we them to join AFEES where they are beyond grateful to everyone could be reunited with some who was able to participate—in of their crew members and help- both the program and in the audi- ers from Europe. Ralph Goldsticker [452nd BG]. ence! Lynn has been in banking for over 50 years, attended over 20 AFEES reunions and coordinated the final 10 AFEES reunions. Lynn’s presentation gave an overview of what evasion from the Germans involved in the European Theatre during World War II. Both Teddy and Ralph shared Craig Dubishar--without his At the conclusion of Lynn’s pre- amazing stories with everyone. camera!

22 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) 46th Annual "virtual" Reunion October 24, 2020

Special thanks to: • 8th AFHS Board members (Anne Marek, Eleesa Faulk- ner, L. Travis Chapin, and Dr. Vivian Rogers-Price) for all of their help and support. • M/Gen Mark Weather- ington, Justin Oakes, and William Lane Callaway [email protected] for the phenomenal video they produced for us. • Mick Hanou and Jeff Duford [email protected], for their presentation on Delta Rebel 2. • Yvonne Caputo [email protected] • Carole Webb Slater [email protected] • Steve Snyder [email protected] • Lynn David [email protected] for sharing the incredible story of how his father evaded cap- ture during his 3 month/1200+ mile journey. • Teddy Kirkpatrick [email protected] • Ralph Goldsticker [email protected] • Michael Faley, the creator and chief admin of our Facebook page, who made sure we could live stream our reunion to thou- sands of wonderful supporters! • Craig Dubishar, who, sans camera this year, was still able to capture some unforgettable images of our "virtual" reunion via sreenshots to share with all of us.

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Arlington National Cemetery.

Drache, Dr. Hiram M., 96, was and served as a lead and squad- Owatonna for two years and born in Meriden, ron navigator with the 457th BG Ada worked as a secretary. In Minnesota, on B-17s on bombing raids over 1952, after earning his master’s August 18, Germany. He was promoted to degree from the University of 1924, to Paul the rank of major on his discharge Minnesota, he was employed at A. and Anna L. November 16, 1945. In 1947 Concordia College, Moorhead (Schulz) Drache. he received his BA degree from for one year. The couple moved He attended a Gustavus Adolphus and in 1948 back to Owatonna where he was two-room rural a B. S. degree from Gustavus, employed as assistant to the elementary school in Meridan, his MA from the University of treasurer at Federated Mutual graduated from Owatonna High Minnesota in 1951, and his Ph.D. Insurance company from 1953 School in 1942, and enrolled from the University of North to 1955. He realized he preferred at Gustavus Adolphus College, Dakota in 1962. teaching to corporate work, and St. Peter, Minn. World War II On February 28, 1948, Hiram in August 1955 he rejoined the changed his educational plans, and Ada Marie Nelson were faculty at Concordia and attended and on November 3, 1942, he married at Lime Lake Lutheran the University of North Dakota. joined 122 Gustavus male stu- Church in Avoca, Minnesota. Ada served as grammarian, typist dents who went to the Federal The couple purchased a farm and editor of his doctoral disser- Building in Minneapolis to enlist. with Hiram’s war-time savings, tation, which was published as He enlisted as a cadet in the Army and they farmed near Owatonna his first book, The Day of The Air Corps November 6, 1942, while he taught high school at Bonanza. This was followed

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by The Challenge of The Prairie, program, “Tales of Bonanza the region. As far as is known he published in 1971; Beyond The Land,” on station KFGO. He was is only one of three Concordia Furrow, 1976; Tomorrow’s a presenter at the symposium teaching faculty to be so honored. Harvest, 1978; Koochiching, “Two Centuries of American In 2015 he received the “Senior 1983; Plowshares to Agriculture” sponsored by the of the Year” award from Bethany Printouts 1985; Taming the USDA in Washington, D.C. in Homes. Wilderness, 1992; History of 1975. In 1976 he represented The Draches farmed at Baker, U.S. Agriculture, 1996; Creating North Dakota on the NBC’s Minnesota, from 1950 to 1981 Abundance, 2001; E.M. Young The Today Show in its series along with Hiram’s teaching, Prairie Pioneer, 2001; A on the Bicentennial. In 1980 writing, and speaking. The farm- Century In The Park, a history he was a visiting scholar at the ing operation received nationwide of Oak Grove Lutheran School, University of Arkansas. He was a publicity for its many innovations 2006; Ministering to the needs presenter for several years at the including a completely computer- of the least … the last … and the famed International Stockmen’s ized record keeping system devel- lost; a brief history of the Glad School. In 1981 he conducted a oped in 1966 for their feeding Tidings Mission, Fargo Union five-week speaking tour in New operation. In 1991 he retired from Mission and the New Life Center, South Wales, Australia, sponsored the classroom after having taught 2007; Prairie Homestead to Wall by the Ministry of Agriculture a total of 6,970 students who took Street, a history of the Jones fam- and three agricultural business- two or more semesters from him. ily, 2009; R.D. Offutt: Success es. For several years he was a He served on various boards and Significance, 2013; Where’s guest lecturer at the American including the Agassiz Club, Clay Meriden? The Demise of Small Graduate School of International County GOP, Clay County Farm Town U.S.A., 2013; Organics: Management at Glendale, Bureau, Oak Grove Lutheran It’s All About the Money, Arizona. From 1958 to 2005 he School, Northwest Farm 2015; Service Above Self, a gave 1089 speeches in 36 states, Managers Association, Minnesota History of the Lutheran Hospitals the District of Columbia, six Historical Society, Minnesota and Homes, 2016. provinces of Canada, Australia, Humanities Commission, and the He has one commissioned but Germany and Norway. Minnesota Governor’s Council unpublished book—Window to In 1977 he received the Award on Employment and Training. He The World, a Centennial History of Merit from Gamma Sigma also served as finance director of Marvin Windows. In 2019 Delta, University of Minnesota in ten campaigns for Minnesota he published Innovators and and the Distinguished Service Republican legislative candidates. Entrepreneurs of North Dakota Award from Gustavus Adolphus He credits his wife Ada for her and Northwest Minnesota, College. In 1978 Cosmopolitan editing of his master’s degree, and in 2020 his 19th and final International presented him with Doctoral Papers and his first 15 book, Retrospect and a Projection the Distinguished Service Award. books. His major avocational into the Future. In addition, he In 2010 the Clay County Heritage interests were reading and trav- was a contributing author to 8 award was followed in 2012 by eling which included five weeks other books, wrote 27 articles, 15 the honorary degree Doctor of in Australia and eight trips to book reviews, 14 forewords and Letters from the University of Europe. He particularly enjoyed produced many audio and video North Dakota for being one of visiting with leading agricultural cassettes. the premier interpreters of agri- entrepreneurs about their ven- In the 1960’s he had a radio culture and entrepreneurship in tures.

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He is survived by his wife, Ada; children. passed away peacefully on August one daughter Kay (Loren Botner), Survivors include wife of 68 21, 2020, at Falcons Landing in St. Louis Park; two sons, David years, Mary Jean; children, Potomac Falls, Virginia, a month (Mary), Roseville; Paul (Lisa) Debbie, Gary, Karen, and Scot; shy of his 100th birthday. Born on Greeley, Colorado; seven grand- grandchildren, Nathan, Taylor, September 23, 1920, in New York children, 11 great grandchil- Nicole, and Danica, and; stepsis- City, he was the proud and devot- dren, one sister, Louise (Martin) ter, Irene Pietrok and her children, ed son of immigrants Mollie and Dorsey, of Roselle, Illinois, and Jim and Cecelia. Samuel Kramer. several nieces and nephews. After graduating from Brooklyn Kotora, Harold J., 97, passed College and starting law school, Drapela, Joe, 96, passed away away Wed. Aug. he joined the Army Air Corps August 15, 2020, 12, 2020, in during World War II as a naviga- at Boone Ridge Aurora, CO. at tor. Based in Debach, England, Senior Living the age of 97. he flew 30 bombing missions Community He was preced- as squadron navigator in the in Salem, OR. ed in death by 493rd BG. A recipient of the He was born in his, wife, Eileen Distinguished Flying Cross, he Milwaukee, WI, (Kalivoda) also received the French Legion and as a young- Kotora and parents James and of Honor for his service in the ster moved with his family to the Agnes (Rabiega) Kotora. He war. Willamette Valley. While still is survived by: Daughter: Kim After the war ended, he completed attending high school, Joe volun- Criter, Son, Hal Kotora, Jr., law school at George Washington teered for military service but was brothers, James (wife Leona), University and rejoined the Army told to stay in school and finish Raymond, a sister Geraldine in the Judge Advocate General’s high school. He was eventually Gregory, grandsons, Kurt and Corps. He served as an Army law- drafted to fight in World War II. Kip Criter and great granddaugh- yer, judge, and appellate judge. He was a staff sergeant with the ters, Lilly and Kensley Criter. After retiring from the Army in 490th BG/850th BS. Joe was a tail Harold was a WW II veteran 1970, Col. Kramer practiced law gunner on a B-17 stationed at having served in the Army Air in Washington, D.C. for almost Eye Airfield (RAF Eye) located Corp as a P-51 Mustang fighter twenty years. between Ipswich and Norwich, pilot as a proud member of the In the summer of 1948, Bill England. During his military , stationed Kramer met Sylvia Steinberg service, he flew 31 bombing mis- in England. The group received of East Schodack, New York, at sions over Europe, including one the Presidential Citation Award Camp Milford in Connecticut. over Berlin and received extra for their service. After the war After less than a year of a credit for flying lead position on he returned to Chicago where he long-distance romance, they were several missions. married Eileen Kalivoda and start- married on July 10, 1949. Bill and After attending business college ed his lifelong Sylvia were deeply devoted to on the GI Bill, Joe worked for career as a com- each other until she passed away many years at the State of Oregon mercial artist. in 2011. Department of Revenue in Salem, Col. Kramer is survived by his OR. Joe enjoyed bowling, golfing, Kramer, COL loving family, his three children fishing, dancing, and hanging out William W., 99, and their spouses, Jeff Kramer in his hammock with his grand- (USA retired) (Christina Kramer), Gilda Kramer

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(Sam Adenbaum), and Mimi Baucom and Riley Baucom, all of discharged in 1945. Kramer-Roberts (John Roberts), Charlotte. Using the GI bill, he graduated and six grandchildren, Josh from University of Illinois and Roberts, Jacob Adenbaum, Molly Martin, Clyde J., 97, of became a CPA. Clyde worked Roberts, Alex Kramer, Philip Mackinaw, for Genoli and Co. CPA firm in Kramer, and Ben Adenbaum. passed away Peoria. In 1987 he took a posi- Aug. 18, 2020, tion as controller for Otto Baum Malarz, CPT Chester, 99, of at Hopedale Construction until he retired in Charlotte, NC, Nursing Home. 1995. During his working years husband of Clyde was born he was secretary treasurer for the late Mary Feb. 21, 1923, in Mackinaw Township Cemetery Culbreath Malarz, Danvers, to Orva for 40 years, an elder and Sunday passed away on Clyde and Mary Alice Hargitt school teacher at Mackinaw September 16, Martin. He married Ethelene I. Christian Church, a 70-year 2020. Captain Hasty Jan. 11, 1945. member and past commander of Malarz was Clyde is survived by his wife of Mackinaw American Legion. He born in Buffalo, NY, the only 75 years, Ethelene; one daughter, served two terms on the Deer child of Anthony Casper Malarz Susan (Dale) Zierten, Racine, Creek Mackinaw District 701 and Mildred Eleanor Rodanski. Wisconsin; four sons, Larry School Board. In 1954, Clyde, He married Mary Elizabeth (Patricia) Martin, Woodstock; (along with Dallas and Don Culbreath of Tampa, FL on Bob (Donna) Martin, Ballwin, Embry) introduced Little League April 30, 1945. They lived in Missouri; Dan (Janet) Martin, Baseball in Mackinaw. Charlotte from 1949-1965, and Morton; Tom (Colleen ) Martin, in Atlanta, GA before moving Farmington; eight grandchildren Rankin, Dr. Clifford Hofstedt, back to Charlotte in 2011. He and nine great-grandchildren. 99, of Spokane, served as a P-51 fighter pilot with Clyde graduated from Danvers Washington, the 8th Air Force, 339th FG in High School in 1942. He par- passed away England during WWII. Captain ticipated in the U.S. Civilian peacefully on Malarz flew as a pilot for Eastern Conservation Corps. The money September 4, Airlines for 34 years, retiring he earned there, he sent home to 2020. He is sur- in 1980. He was a member of financially help his mother. He vived by his wife, Quiet Birdmen, Retired Eastern completed his senior year of high Carol Phillips Pilots Assoc., Silver Wings, 8th school and enlisted in the Air Rankin of Spokane, WA; daugh- Air Force Historical Society, Force. He became a second lieu- ters Barbara Shaub of Snohomish 339th Fighter Group Assoc., and tenant and navigator in the 8th Air WA, Diane (Dean) Sonnenberg Veterans of Foreign Wars. Chet Force 452nd BG. During the war, of Spokane, WA; grandchil- is survived by sons Bob Malarz his B17 was shot down over the dren Marci (Keane) Sweet of (Marsha) of Charlotte, Charlie Netherlands in 1944. He was MIA Woodinville, WA, Kiel (Christina) Malarz (Rebecca) of Atlanta, for six months, while the Dutch Shaub of Seattle, WA, Rane (Liza) daughter Jean Wood (Stacey) of underground helped him return Shaub of Seattle, WA, McCall Charlotte, grandchildren Steve to England. Clyde continued his Shaub of Snohomish, WA; and Malarz, Carly Baucom (Ryan), fond feelings for the Dutch people step-children Marcie (Jim) Paul, Richard Wood and Andy Wood by always having a small wind- Jay (Kim) Phillips, Janet Phillips, (Alison); great-grandchildren Lily mill in his flower garden. He was and their children. Preceded in

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death by his first wife, Helen Spartanburg, SC, passed away a life member of the National Rankin of Spokane, WA; son Peter on September 4, 2020. Born Society of Professional Engineers, Rankin, of Missoula, MT; and November 19, 1922, he was the of which he was past President grandson Benjamin Sonnenberg son of the late Paul Eugene and of the Spartanburg Chapter and of Spokane, WA. Graduate of Ethel Cooley Storey of Greenville, “Engineer of the Year” in 1971. Lewis & Clark High School SC. He was predeceased by his He was past president of the class of 1939, of Washington wife of 71 years, Martha Ray American Textile Managerial State University class of 1943, Lasseter Storey. Engineers Society and recipient of and received his Doctorate of Mr. Storey was raised in their first “Outstanding Member” Dentistry from the University of Greenville, SC, graduated from award. He was on the Advisory Oregon. Cliff served his country Greenville High School in 1940, Board for Engineering at Clemson in WWII as a B-17 pilot with the where he was Vice-President of University, a Wofford Trustee, 493rd BG, completing 33 missions his class and Business Manager of and recipient of a Distinguished over Germany. In addition to prac- the Annual. He attended Clemson Service Award from Wofford ticing dentistry for 37 years, he University and graduated with College. He was Chairman of was an avid carpenter, cork pad degrees in both Mechanical and the American Textile Industries maker, blacksmith, potter, and Electrical Engineering in 1947. He “Environmental Preservation scuba diver during his lifetime. A was President of Tau Beta Pi, hon- Committee” and was Project lover of jokes, stories, and good orary Engineering Society and a Coordinator for the Airport conversation, Cliff brought his member of Phi Kappa Phi, honor- Commission on Design and enthusiasm for life wherever he ary Scholastic Society. He served Construction of the GSP Airport went. He enjoyed traveling the in World War II as a B-17 Pilot Expansion, and a member of the world with his friends and family, in the 384th BG, completing thir- GSP Airport Commission from and working on home improve- ty-five combat missions and being 1989 to 2012. ment projects with his children. awarded 16 medals and combat Mr. Storey was a long time mem- But whether it was a trip to China, ribbons. He remained in the US ber of Bethel United Methodist Hawaii, or Lake Pend Oreille, he Air Force Reserve and retired as a Church, serving as President of was always happiest when Carol Lieutenant Colonel in 1982. the Young Adult Department, was by his side. We will miss him After graduation from Clemson, Loyalty Class President and dearly, but will also be forever he worked with the National Teacher, General Program grateful to have shared part of our Advisory Committee for Chairman and Vice-Chairman of lives with such a wonderful man. Aeronautics, (now NASA) before the Building Committee mem- A sincere thank you to Jim Allen joining Milliken and Company. ber for the construction of the of The Spokesman-Review for In 1948 he married Martha Ray Education Building, Chairman of the article “A War for the Right Lasseter of Decatur, Georgia, the Building Committee for the Reasons,” (Sept. 2, 2020), and and they became Spartanburg Activities Building, Chairman to all his wonderful caregivers at residents. He was Vice-president of the Administrative Board, Comfort Keepers, and Director of Engineering Chairman of the Pastor-Parish Family First, at Milliken, designing over 40 Committee and Lay Leader. Mr. and Hospice of Milliken facilities before retir- Storey was also active in commu- Spokane. ing in 1987. He continued as nity activities. a Consultant to Milliken for Mr. Storey was a founding mem- Storey, Wallace many years. Mr. Storey was a ber of the Carolina Country Club, A., 97, of Registered Professional Engineer, being organizer and coordinator

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of the Design Team. He was also Nicholas (wife Veronica great Bill served in the United States Chairman of their Architectural grandkids Fabian and Blake) Army Air Corps from 1941-1945. Review Committee for many granddaughter Katie (great While stationed in England SSgt years. In 2008, Mr. Storey grandkids Madison and Parker). William Thorns flew 25 mis- received a Lifetime Achievement Don graduated from Olivia High sions in a B17 as Flight Engineer Award from the Spartanburg School in 1938 and went on to the and Top Turret Gunner with the Clemson University Booster College of St. Thomas. In 1941 96th BG. His medals include: Club. To recognize the contri- as a member of the MN National Distinguished Flying Cross, Air butions Col. Storey made to the Guard he was called into service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation U.S. War Effort in World War II, and spent over four years in active for the Regensburg, Germany the Warbirds of South Carolina, duty. He served as a B-17 Bomber mission and the French Legion Inc., presented Col. Storey with Pilot in the 303rd BG. He took part of Honor for his participation in the “Warbird of the Year” award in the historic D-Day invasion liberating France. After his 25 in 2009. On October 15, 2016, and flew a total of 31 missions missions overseas Bill completed he was honored by Clemson in WWII. Don also served in the his military service by instructing University as “Hero of the Game” Korean War. As a “weekend war- new recruits back in the States on at the Clemson/NC State game. rior” he served twenty years in the B17. He is survived by a son, Wallace the Minnesota Air National Guard Bill then attended the University A. Storey, Jr. (Catherine), a and Air Force Reserve. Don was of Pittsburgh and graduated daughter, Susan Storey Simpson a long-time devoted member of with a BS degree in Chemical (Dwight), a brother, Paul Eugene Sacred Heart Parish with over Engineering. It was during this Storey, Jr (Mary Louise), a grand- sixty years of faithful service. time that he met the love of his daughter, Jennifer Delmarco He loved the Vikings, the Twins life, Dorothy May. (Danny), a grandson, James and the Golden Gopher Football He and Dorothy raised their five Storey (Heather), a granddaughter, team. Don was a devoted hus- children in Hickory Hills, Illinois. Kristina Robbins (Slade), a grand- band, father, grandfather and great During those years Bill worked daughter, Caroline Schell (David), grandfather who loved to garden for Stepan Chemical, was busy and eight great-grandchildren. and always had a joke to tell. volunteering at church, was on the local School Board, attended Stoulil, Donald W., 99, passed Thorns, William M., 96, of Santa his children’s activities when he away September Rosa Beach, FL, could and played more than a few 1, 2020. entered eternity games of golf! Born January 4, to be with his Bill remained active during his 1921 in Olivia, Lord and Savior retirement years. He served as MN to William & on May 10, 2020. President of the 96th BG for Frances Stoulil, He was born fifteen years and later became he was preceded in Pittsburgh, Chaplain. Bill and Dorothy trav- in death by wife, PA, to Walter eled all over the United States Shirley, brothers Arthur, Larry William Thorns and Helen Lenore and Europe attending 96th Bomb and Gordon, sisters Marcella Matthews. Those who knew Bill Group/Mighty Eighth Air Force and Margaret. Survived by son (Dad or Pop) will always remem- reunions. They also enjoyed time John (Jack) and daughters Mary, ber his love for God, his devotion with family at their cottage near Therese and Barbara, her husband to his family and his patriotism South Haven, Michigan, where he Timothy Carolan and grandson for our country. would spend hours fishing on the

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lake. He wrote two books and his Mert was a radio operator and Frances Palsma, from Springfield, hobbies included building and fly- gunner. The nine-member crew South Dakota. ing remote control planes and of flew 35 missions over Germany, Merton left behind daughter course...golf! Poland, France, Holland and Carol Thurston Tucker, son-in- Bill and Dorothy moved to Santa Belgium. Merton was awarded the law Lester Thomas Tucker, son, Rosa Beach in April 2016 where Distinguished Flying Cross, Air James Thurston, daughter-in-law they resided at Somerby Assisted Medal, Air Force Commendation Patricia Rowden Thurston and Living. Bill especially enjoyed Medal with a Presidential grandchildren Michele Tucker two Bible studies he attended Citation. Wolf, Michael Tucker, Matthew every week, concerts on Sundays On one of the training mission Thurston and Laura Thurston, and many other activities. breaks, he married his high school two siblings, Marcia Thurston William (Bill) was preceded in sweetheart, Elaine June Perkins Stephens and John Thurston and death by his parents Walter W. January 8, 1944, in Dalhart, TX. many nieces and nephews. He Thorns and Helen L. Matthews, After the war ended, he and was preceded in death by his par- wife Dorothy A. Thorns, son Elaine lived in Romeo, Michigan. ents Ammon and Ellen Thurston, James F. Thorns, brothers Harry T. In 1949, Merton decided to return wife Elaine Perkins Thurston, and Thorns and Robert C. Thorns. to the Air Force, to utilize experi- siblings Jean Thurston Evans, He is survived by his daughters, ence and skills gained during the James Thurston, and Barbara Cathy Susan (Kenneth) Stam, war. The majority of time he was Thurston Perkins Revitzer. Sarah Ann (Charles) Conroy, sons responsible for radar repair and William John (Tracy) Thorns and maintenance. He and his family Daniel Joseph (Michele) Thorns, moved frequently within the states We are NOT daughter-in-law Sonya Thorns, and a few overseas stations for automatically eleven grandchildren, fifteen great isolated tours of duty. He served grandchildren and one great-great in WWII, Korean conflict, and notified upon the grandchild. the Vietnam War. Merton retired death of our veterans from the Air Force in 1968 as or other members. Thurston, Merton Charles, 95, Senior Master Sergeant after serv- went to be with ing over 21 years. From 1968 to Please his Lord, on 1985 he worked for the United June 11, 2020, in States Civil Service. forward all TAPS to: Peoria, Arizona. Merton and Elaine moved to Sun [email protected] He was born in City, Arizona, to spend retirement Washington, MI, in warm weather. He stayed in or on September 28, touch with friends made while 1924, to Ammon in the Air Force, especially the and Ellen (Gustafson) Thurston. WWII flight crew. He usually 8th AFHS After graduating from Romeo attended the annual 8th Air Force 68 Kimberlys Way High School, class of 1942, he Reunion, maintaining friend- joined the US Army Air Corps ships made throughout the years. Jasper, GA December 5, 1942. In March, Merton enjoyed sending cards, 30143-4769 1944, Merton became a crew notes and gifts to others to let member on a B-17 bomber with them know how much he cared the 96th BG/338th BS, located about them. He will be missed 912-748-8884 in Snetterton Heath, England. by many including special friend,

30 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4) How About It! Hang In There! Earl Wassom 466th BG, Chaplain 8th AFHS

It was late afternoon. A little 7 called Political Science or Civics. I year old boy was running as fast suppose I learned it from my ‘dirt as he could towards his house at farmer’ dad or my mother who was the end of a dusty trail. He did born in England. Both were very this every school day. His school patriotic, loved America and we had was a one-room, eight-grade facil- a flag which we proudly flew in our ity with 25 students and over two yard. were always ready to move forward. miles away from his prairie home. I knew the name of our state capi- When there was an opportunity Walking home on that lonely stretch tal, Governor, and Senator. available, they took advantage of it. of country road was very routine We had a radio, phone and a If there was not one, they created and boring day-in and day-out. But weekly newspaper and with these one. today was different. He rushed up we kept up with the news of the Look around you. These people the road, turned to the lane lead- world. probably had something to do with ing to his house, leaped up on the I learned that Franklin D. what you are seeing. They invented porch, slammed the screen door Roosevelt was our next President instruments to examine the inner- open and shouted to his astonished of the United States. He did not most details of matter and to also mother who was preparing the eve- inherit a very easy job. It started explore the universe. They tamed ning meal for the family. “Mama, with a drought followed by strong the atom and introduced the digital Mama, guess what...President winds which created the ‘dust age. Their accomplishments includ- Hoover offered me a ride home.” bowl’. This condition in the south- ed modes of travel, agriculture, “What??????” she exclaimed. western part of the country created medicine, education, law, constric- “Yes mama, I was walking along water shortages, loss of crops, and tion, energy, human behavior, and when this big black shiny car pulled death of livestock. Also, jobless- much more. One journalist even up to me and stopped. A nice ness, homelessness, poverty, crime, called them “the greatest genera- man wearing a suit and hat rolled and a financial crash that was called tion.” They were great and when down the window and asked me if the ‘great depression’. Just as finan- they retired from their jobs they he could take me home. I thanked cial recovery was underway, the did not stop. They volunteered for him for the offer but my Mama U.S. was suddenly drawn into an worthy causes. They were entrepre- and Daddy told me to never get in unwanted world war when attacked neurs. Many are not still alive! a car with anyone I didn’t know by Germany and Japan. This con- A veteran of WWII in our town without their permission. He smiled flict lasting 5 years caused untold recently celebrated his 100th and drove away. Just think, The suffering and death, but peace fol- birthday. When he was asked, he President of the United States talked lowed. declared: “…the secret, don’t give to me and offered me a ride!!!!!!!!!” Demobilization of over seven up, keep on doing something. Don’t That experience had a profound million soldiers and their return to get cantankerous because you are effect on me. civilian life was accomplished. This old or mad because you’re not First, I found out that the nice transition to normalcy involved the going to live too long!” This is an man in the shining black car was entire population. They desired to attitude worth cultivating. Another not Herbert Hoover, President of get back to their home town, get an that is worthy, is to seek peace. the United States, but I did know education, start a career, find a wife, We find peace not in the world but that we had a President over the buy a home, start a family, and to rather in ourselves through Christ country in which I lived whose pursue the American Dream. who promised, “My peace I give to name was Herbert Hoover. Being During the years from 1950 for- you…not as the world gives.” a seven-year-old student in a one- ward, they faced yet more war and All of this is worth the wait, room school, we had no curriculum the Cold War with Communism, but so……………..HANG IN THERE!

December 2020 (20-4) www.8thafhs.org 31 8th AF News 8th Air Force Historical Society NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE 68 Kimberlys Way PAID NASHVILLE, TN Jasper, GA 30143-4769 PERMIT 1

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32 www.8thafhs.org December 2020 (20-4)