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3-1-1999
The Octofoil, March/April 1999
Ninth Infantry Division Association
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412.GregQryAve., We~hawken, N.J. 07087 NINTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION Volu~e XLXXrVNumber '2'-~_: .-----,.;.'_ ...... '------...... ---:-..--.....",.,,---' . M8!-April 1999 .. n Tip o/the Hat • A view of Hyannis Inner Harbor Remembering the Memorial Reunion datesMay 23 - 26 1999 Fund and tbeirbuddies who II have answered their last ron Hyannis Mass call we thank the follOwing ,. members and friends: 54th Reunion Plans Completed Don't say, "Maybe next year." Leo C. Williamson- In memo Dear Friends, ry of Keene "Slick" Wilson In the summer of 1942 all leaves were canceled. The Sandy Reamor and Joh~ Men of the Ninth started the tedious task of preparing Eisenhower and marking every piece of material and equipment that would be necessary to accompany the men who would Heien Holmes - In memory of wear the Octofoil. Their objective would be to rid the husband Joe Lagattuta and world of the dreaded, evil Hitler and all he represented. other Co. K. comrades. Many will recall those days. The rest of you will recall your first day with the Ninth. When you ask yourself how William S. Horton long ago was that? The answer is amazing - over fifty years ago. Don Lavender - In memory of In Hyannis at the Four Points Hotel on May 23, 24, and Jack Radabaugh.I Co. 39th 25th men from all parts.of this great nation will gather to Info renew friendships that were formed long ago. We ask you to come to the Four Points in May and Tony San Giacomo - In mem renew these friendships that mean so much. Many things have happened since we first met, and now the shadows 1. FROM NEW y~:~~NS TO HYANNIS ory of Ed McGrath, 15th Engrs. B Co. of time grow longer for all of us. Please make an extra Take Rte 95 to 195(p .. effort to be with us in Hyannis. Rte 25 (also Rte 495) G~o;d~~ce R.I.) Take Rte 195 to Paul Lisa - In memory of Those of you who have endured the pain and torment Bridge to Rte 6 East al ou C to ramp before Bourne of battle know only too well the agony of conflict. I Sagamore Bridge. Contin~eng ape Cod Canal to the Isadore Cohen, Milton ~ March and Holt Rast believe that this country of ours is still the greatest exit 6 onto Rte 132 towardon Rte over.the bridge to nation in the world because of the men who wore the ~et of traffic lights (approx 2 ~ya~m)s funtIl t~e second Donald Hyde - In memory of Octofoil. Let's continue to show people that we are proud IS on the ri ht . mi es rom eXIt 6. Hotel of having served our country. History is not only made by 2. FROM WF1~~X~~Ch the traffic lights. Ernest Bartroff B Co. 9th Med Bn. people, it is people. Take Rte 90 (M T. USE'ITS. Our Memorial Service shows that we have not forgot- Exit II-A. Take ~:=·49~r~~~~) Eh~s~t~ Rte 495 South, Mrs. Ann Morano - In memo ten our beloved dead, the 4,581 men, who made the and Rte 25. See directions #1 f W IC ec?mes Rte 495 ry of George Apar B Co. 47th supreme sacrifice. A life given in service to one's country 3. FROM NORTI-r OF BOSTO or rest of trIp. is a living thing that never dies. We will also remember all Take Rte 495 South S.N ~.H. MAINE, VERMONl) Int. 4. FROM BOSTON. . ee dIrectIOns #1 for rest of trip. our comrades who are no longer with us. Max Michelson The Reunion Committee has a program arranged with Take Rte 3 South to the Sa a . all activities taking place in the Four Points Hotel, with bridge onto Rte 6 S g ~ore. BrIdge. Go over the 5. BY AIR. . ee #1 for dIrectIons for rest of trip. John B. Knight - In memory the possible exception of one event being held on of Conda Knee, M Co. 47th Monday, May 24th away from the hotel. Fly into Logan Airport, Boston T k . Int. Come to Hyannis! I know you will enjoy your stay and to Barnstable Airport (H a .. a e U:S. Air Express we are looking forward to being your host. flies into Barnstable Air:O~n:s). Ut· Air E~pre~s also Sincerely, N.Y. There is a bus se. rom aGuardia Airport, John Van Son Ron Murphy that will take you dow~~~ Wroc~ton/PlymouthBus) Member of Reunion Committee stops at all terminals at L yan~IS Bus Terminal. It From M Co. 60th Inf - In Olsen at POBox 845 Mogan Airport. Contact Herb memory of R.J. MacDonald Around the comer f have a friend we will se~d ·you the arstons Mills, MA 02648 and in this great city that has no end. b Yet days go by, and weeks rush on bus from Logan to Hyan~~sS~hedule.R$ound-triP on the .From the faculty and Staff at Durham Elementary - In and before f know it a year is gone Call Four Points H approx. 34.00 and f never see myoid friend's face 771-3000 or take a ~: fO~ y~~ to Hotel Shuttle. 1-508 memory of Ernest Bartroff utes). w IC IS a short ride (ten min- for life is a swift and terrible race. Boris Raynes - In memory of He knows f like him just as well Trent Palmer I Co. 39th Int. as in the days when f rang his bell And he rang mine. We were younger then and now we are busy, tired men AUonh. ekran Robert Pappas - In memory of General Randle Tired with trying to make a name tired with playing a foolish game. Earl Mosel - In memory of 'Tomorrow, , f say, 'f will call on Jim Robert Dunn and Duane just to show that f am thinking ofhim. ' Olson, Hdqs. 47th Int. But tomorrow comes and tomorrow goes co and the distance between us grows and grows. Wanda Preston - In memory Around the comer, yet miles away '~.,r. _ of Lew Gray, 60th F.A. 'Here's a telegram, sir. Jim died today. ' And that's what we get and deserve in the end Cop' Cod Bow Joseph Kearns Around the comer, a vanished friend. " -Charles Hanson Towne Everett Tapp - In memory of Geri Hatton NINfH INFANTRY AS~OCIATION 1999 REUNION PROGRAM Evelyn Dunn - In memory of . CAPECOD MA .Martin Roach and husband SUNDAY, MAY 23: ' Robert H.J. Dunn 11 :00 am 8:00 pm REGISTRATION ~s Bow * 11:30 am GOLFERS REGISTRATION AREA George Brown - In memory 4:00 pm fR CONNOR'S MASS of Geri Hatton, George Apar 5:00 pm BOARD OF GOVERNORS and Robert Dunn 8:00 pm 11:30 PM RECEPTION/DANCE MONDAY, MAY 24: Glenn Smith - In memory of 9:00 am ALL DAY REGISTRATION James A. Johnson A Co 10:00 ~_m Gf-N'ERAL BUSINESS MEETING 47th Inf. ,. 1:00 pm LUNCHEON 4~ FTlr- HOARD OF GOVERNORS A.T. Forrest - In memory of 7j30 ,?m 11:30 pm MUSIC & DANCING George Ware and Milton TUFSDAY, MAY 25: Moran, 15th Engrs. B Co. and 9:03 am ALL DAY R~GIsTRAnON Holt Rast 15th Engrs -B & C Co. 10:00 am MEMORlALSER~ 6:00 pm 7::00 pm COCKTAJl.HOtJR 7:00 p~ 11:38 POI ~QUEf T "I O'C T 0 F 0 I L
TIlE OCTOFOIL Form 2579 should be sent to Four P~ints Hyannis 412 GregoryAvenue, Weehawken, N.J. 07087 Taps Sounded Rt. 132 & Bearse's Way Octofoil Associated Editors Hyannis, MA 02601 Walter O'Keefe and Daniel Quinn Callout our nantes Ninth Infantry Division Association Reunion as the years go by Sunday, May 23, 1999 - Wednesday, May 26, 1999 National Officers Board of Governors Remember us- President PLEASE RESERyE THE FOLLOWING ACCOMMODATIONS' 1999 and we will never die. Jack Collier AI Perna $89.00 PER ROOM, PER NIGHT, SINGLE OCCUPANCY 126 St. John Ave. Philadelphia, PA --$89.00 PER ROOM, PER NIGHT, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY St. Louis, Mo 63119 Charles liBretto With deep remorse we an These rates will also apply two (2) days before and (2) days Paramus, NJ nounce the passing of these after reunion dates. Joe Killeen. 1st V.P. Thomas Hatton friends and comrades. State tax will be added to above rates 224 N. Grove St. Saginaw, MI May they rest in peace. $15.00 Additional person (up to 2) @ $15.00 per person Valley Stream, NY 115803412 William Shea To their loved ones we (plus tax) per night. Scarboro, ME :~xtend our deepest sympathy. *A limited number of non-smoking rooms are available - Please 2000 Billie Martin, 2nd V.P. Richard Baudouy check your preference: SMO~NG___ NONSMO~NG _ 31991 Carlelder S1. Altamonte Springs, FL Leonard Kupkowski Beverly Hills, Mi 48025 Jack Collier S1. Louis, MO 47th Inf. CD (y.Je) will arrive on, and Depart on:. _ Pat DeColli, 3rd V.P. Larry Mclaughlin 1017 Jackson Street Wakefield, MA Robert Coffey Name: _ Philadelphia, PA 18148 Richard Starr 47th Inf. 1st Bn. Hdqrs. Philadlephia, PA Address: _ Dave Heller John Miller Judge Advocate Arlington, TX William Yarbrough City: State. Zip Code. _ 618 Sumac Rd. Diu. Gen. Staff Highland Pk., 1160035 2001 Day Telephone L--) Today's Date:, _ Marty Gross Jack Radabough Thomas Boyle, Treasurer Hewlett, NY All room requests have been noted on your reservation and 39 Hall Avenue Howard Gaertner Co. I 39th Inf. will be honored based on availability. Somerville, MA 02144 Wa.·uwatosa, WI : A deposit of $100.00 or a credit card guarantee is required per Charles Vanderpoel Ernest Bartroff room. . Daniel Quinn, Secretary Jacksonville, Fla. 412 Gregory Avenue B Co. 9th Med Bn. Please enclose check (made payable to the Four Points Elmer Wagner card~ guarant~e, Weehawken, NJ 07087 Bay City, MI Hyannis), or, for those using credit as.a please t~e Frank Haines Goldie Witzkin complete the section below. Your depOSit wIll be applIed to Trpnton. NJ Wife of Ralph Witzkin 'last night of your room reservation. A block of guest rooms IS Ernest Botella PI~ase. 47th Inf. 'Jeing held at your group rate until April 23, 1999. note San Antonio, TX :hat the number of rooms being held may be sold out prIor to PUblished five times yearly. May, June, July - Aug., Sept., V\"l., N~>v., Ja~., :his date. Please make reservations early to ensure group rate Dec., - Feb., - Mar, April by and for the members of the R.l MacDonald and availability. Ninth Infantry Division Association. News Jtems, feature stories, pho M Co. 60th Inf. Credit Card Type:, _ tograph.s and art material from members will be appreciated. Every ~ffort Will be made to return photographs and art work in good condi hon. Ruth Thornton Credit Card Number:. _ .. ~~ extract f:o~ the certificate of incorporation of the 9th Infantry .Wife of Wilfred Thornton, Dlvl~lon Association read: "This Association is formed by the officers Co. M 60th Inf. Expiration Date: Signature: _ and men of the 9th Infantry Division in order toperpetuate the mem NO REBJNO GIVEN IF; ory. ~f our fall~n ~omrades,. to pre.serve the esprit de corps of the Dorothy Brady A. Reservation is cancelled or changed within 72 hours prior to DivIsion, to assist In promoting an everlasting world peace exclusive \ arrival. Wife of Carl Brady, Co. M ly by means of educational activities and to serve as an information B. If guest does not arrive on date specified, room is cancelled bureau to former members of the 9th Infantry Division. 60thlnf. , Copy must be received on or before the 15th of each month to and reinstatement at group rate is subject to availability. guarantee publication of the 20th. C..Early departure. Deposit is applied to the last night of your ~econd-Class Postage paid at Union City, N.J. 07087, and additional Lewis Gray Jr. above reservation. offices. . 60th FA. CHECK-IN TIME AFTER 4;00 P,M, P~ST MASTER: Send address cbllnves' tn 4 I2 Gregory Avenue CHECK.QUT TIME By II;00 A,M, We~hawken, N.J. 07087. . ., Walter Fatt Ph~aSe-complete 'and send with'your depo~itto our Reservations Volume XlXXIV Number 2 Mar-April 1999 9th Recon Department or Fax to (508) 778-6039.
, - ~ : , ~ ~.Ali goltet:'s'p~innIDg ~oPfay 00, SUDd~shall n~tify f~man' Crabb~ HERB-,()f'SENptior to the reuniOn~ ,. . <" '. P'lb~"""" 60th F.A. Mail: P.O. Box 845, Marstons Mills, MA02648 prVISION~b'" Tel: 1-508-420-3320 (home) MNTI(INfANTRl' Fred Freeman 1-781-878-1953 (office) ~HIP.APPLICATIoN F Co. 60th Inf. Dan~QuinD. National Seeretary,9th Infantry Division Assn. 4. Gregory Ave., Weeha~ken, New Jersey 07087 Philip Berman F Co. 60th Inf. Enclosed please find dues for: Michael Patrick Nante··············· SeriaI No . A Btry 60th FA.
Street Address...... •...... Don Lewis Co B 47th Inf. I was a member of: George Danas Battery Company Regiment 9th Div.. ~ . 47th InfA Co.
I wish to sign up for the following: Elmer Hughes D Co. 47th1nf. STRIP TICKETS possibl~, i~ Regular Member per year·.....·...... •..•...... $IO~OOO Please purchase your tickets as soon as as. will help the Reunion Committee to decide on lookin'g Sustaining Member...... •...... into additional ways to make your stay enjoyable. The strip ticket will include a reception on Sunday evening ~" .' with live music. On Monday evening we will have music Donation Memorial SCholarship Fund a . , 'I!j~ again. Tuesday evening we will have a cocktail hour and TlfREE-YEAR MEMBER...... •...... $25.000 '.-' . banquet. The price of the strip ticket will be $70.00. Make Life Membership...... •...... $75.000 . .. Ladies Auxiliary Member $31000 'f/ your check out to the 9TH INFANTRY DIVISION REUNION Oecals 5O-each and mail it with the form below to THOMAS BOYLE, 39 HALL AVENUE, SOMERVILLE, MA 02144. Tel: 1-617-625 George A. Danas died 8127. Philly-Oelaware Valley 0 Greater New York 0 January 22, 1998. He was a Illinois 0 Washington, D.C. 0 sergeant with 47th New EnglantJ 0 Michigan 0 Regiment, A Company Florida 0 New Jersey 0 October 1944 to end of occu Texas C r South West tJ California Chapter tJ pation. Transferred to Medics 47th Reg. during Ladies Auxiliary Name of Member Ninth Infantry Division Association occupation. Survived by his Membership Application wife Aphrodite, and children -----";""------Clara Scott, Treasurer \ Elena and Anthony. Family 1517 Shields St. may be contacted in care of Street Shennan,Tx.75092 Anthony Danas, PO Box 621, Tel. '903-893-8696 New Hampton, N.Y. 10958. Enclosed please find dues for: City Anthony Danas State Zip Name ----,__-''-- _ P.O. Box 621 New Hampton, NY 10958 Phone Number Street Address, _ Aphrodite Danas ------124 Armand Rd. CitY-- State _ Zip _ Company Battalion, _ Ridgefield, Conn. 06877 My spouli;e (Brother or relative> Regiment, Unit Served with, _ ------Wife/Guest's Name One year- .,....-__... $3,.OO ------Strip Ticket Amount Enclosed, _ Credit Chapter ~ --..:OOI TWE OCTOFOll
SEEKING Texas & The Greater Southwest Chapter The Monument Progress Report The Ninth Infantry Division Association D.S. FINNIGAN Dear members of the Ninth Infantry Div. Association: On March 24, 1999, the Chapter held its meeting at 175 Lower Farnham Road Thanks to your generous support the Matt Urban Salado, Texas. Aldershop Monument Fund has made great strides since our last Twelve members were present with Chapter President Hants, GUll 3RA report in the Octofoil. Again we express our deep appre Ernie Botella presiding. UK ciation as we have done in all our acknowledgements. Sergeant-at-Arms Ken Meyer led the group in the Dear Sir, As mentioned in our original "Open Letter to the Pledge of Allegiance. Chaplain William "Dub" Lynch gave I was given your name by Membership", contributions would also come from the the invocation. Mr. John J. Slonaker from family and some organizations that we are involved with. The following officers and staff were elected: the U.S. Army Military It happened and as a result the fund has gone over the President: Jack Blann - 1st Vice President: John Miller History Institute at Carlisle $7000.00 mark. With your continued support, we will - 2nd Vice President: Herb Stern - Sergeant-at-Arms: PA, as someone who may be achieve our goal. Ken Meyer - Secretary/Treasurer: Dick Granbery able to help me in my search Over half of that amount came from the PLAV (polish Chaplain: William "Dub" Lynch - and Publicity: Gordon for further information Legion of American Veterans). As they extended a help Schneider. regarding a casualty of the ing hand to honor Matty. An earlier response from the The financial report was given and approved. Money June 1944 fighting in two PLAV Posts that were named after him was followed was set aside for two memorials. Normandy, France. He was by additional generous donations when a center-fold Jack Blann and Herb Stern were chosen to be alternate Pte. Delbert Francis Hower spread was published in the PLAV National News, Easter Delegates to the Board of Governors at the National 13007540 47th Infantry Regt. edition. The bi-annual 64 page paper featured articles on Meeting in Hyannisport. 9th Div. US army and was Matty and our open letter. , The Ladies Auxillary said it would no longer be neces killed in action on 15th June We finally received a reply, dated March 23, '99 from sary to separate their funds from the Chapter funds in 1944. the superintendent at Arlington National Cemetery. They the Treasury. The Auxillary members' names will be Mr. Slonaker has been requested a notorized letter of approva.l from Mrs. Jennie added when donations are made. most helpful in supplying me Urban after which they'd be happy to expedite our The membership was advised of the· death of Don with facts about the forma request. The letter was sent and now we're waiting for Lewis from Webster, Texas. tion and movements of Ptc. information about our proposed monument. The monu Robert Burky has advised us of. his 'plans to move to Hower's unit, but this is ment company in Minnesota sent us a roll of lettering Dayton, Ohio to be close to Bob & Dottie's daughters. purely basic. I know that prints for proof reading which included some changes. Bob, together with John Miller, was instrumental in start Delbert Hower was quar We can't do anything till we get the final word from ing the Texas and The Greater Southwest Chapter. John tered in the Hampshire ArlingtoI), except to remind them how short the time is & Jean Miller hosted a going away dinner for Bob & County countryside (North getting to meet our August 25, 1999 dedication date. The Dottie on April 1st. A letter of appreciation and a plaque ington village area) U.K. remainder of this month (April) is critical if we are to were presented to Bob and a medallion to Dottie. from late 1943 to the run-up meet our schedule. Gordon A. Schneider for D-Day, and during this By convention time we should have some definite infor 4001 Fort Branch Drive time he struck up a close mation on this monument project. In the meantime we're ' Arlington, TX 76016-3212 friendship with a family in still hoping for a few more donations to complete that (817) . the local' village of East phase of our obligation. We aren't losing any hope that Stratton where he is still this mission will be accomplished, even if a little late. IWNOIS CHAPTER NEWSLETIER fondly rem~mbered and Respectfully, Time is drawing near for the Annual Reunion. We are where I have been shown John Bonkowski planning to attend this year but representatives will be photos of this fine looking The Matt Urban Monemunt Committee few from the Illinois Chapter. youngman. Peter A. Radichio It is with heavy hearts that we report the death of our Mr. James A. Schoenecker, John Bonkowski dear friend and Illinois Chapter Member, Lewis Gray, 60th Superintendent of the F.A. Bn. Hdq. He and his wife had gone to Florida for their Cambridge American Cemet These are the latest donors ,and they are listed in the annual vacation. He had been ill for a while but before ery in the U.K. has kindly order that their donation was received: leaving, the doctor approved of his travel. Shortly after furnished me with the New York Chapter: Richard R. Reedy (nephew of Gene arriving in Ft. Meyers, he became ill and was hospitalized. details fo Delbert's grave, Reedy), Barney L. Tobacco, Harry S. & Blondina Sager, He passed away on March 16th and was returned home Plot B, Row 5, grave No. 29 Gene O. Reedy -A Bty 84th FA,. Bill & Iris Canales -K Co to Fontana, Wisconsin for funeral services. He was buried in Normandy U.S. Military 47th, Gerald C. Cele 60th FA BN,Arthur C.Doering - H Co in St. Joseph Cemetery in River Grove, II. Our deepest Cemetery at Colleville-dur 60th, James M. Egan- 9th Recon, Pete Rice Jr., Mrs. Jennie sympathies to his wife, Muriel and his family. He will be mere France, back of Omaha Urban (wid~w of Matt), Robert Pappas -A Co 60th, Henry missed and is in our thoughts and prayers. Beach, which I shall be visit Shimkoski,Goldie Jiovani, Dan Quinn- 47th Reg, Lyle Kelly The Andersons traveled to Florida and visited with the ing this coming July. -L Co 47th. Hennemuths and Clausers. They were thereat the time of I have an ,unconfirmed Donations from the PLAY: Lt. Col. Matt Urban PLAY Lew's passing. They had a pleasant trip and back to report from this time, that Post #198 Niagara Falls, NY; Lt. Col. Matt Urban PLAY Midwest living. . Delbert was killed by a shot Post #164 Warren, Ohio; PLAY Department of Ohio; PLAY We learned that the Clarks will not be attending the to the head by·anememy Department of Michigan; Edward S. Kaminski (The reunion this year as Paul is not able to travel. sniper, and I realize this Military Art Gallery) Mt. Clemens, MI; Walter Omanowski The Gaertners plan to have another cookout this year could be true as these boys PLAY Post #7 Wyandotte, MI; Akron PLAY Post #32 and will give us a definite date later. were particularly busy Akron, Ohio; Edward & Eleanor Apanek, NY; Walter The mini reunion in Angola, Indiana is in October a~ the around this time. I know that Koziol Antioch, IL; Chester Sawko, Glandale Heights, IL. Holiday Inn. More details later. Delbert's home town was NEWS FROM 60th F A. Bn. I failed to mention in my last Philadelphia and that his Dear Dan letter that I heard from Jack Cowens once again after a mother lived to a ripe old I want to thank the following names for the generous period of some forty odd years. Jack of Hdqs. Btry. and age, only pass,ingon in donation given toward the Matt Urban Monument Fund. I Louis Prince of "A" & "B" Btry, met in Cincinnati and com recent years. would like to hear more of the troops of the 9th Div and pared notes. I was glad to hear from Jack. He, Bud Remer.. The 47th have' a distin also the chapters around the country. We need your Hdqs. Btry., and I played pinochle for fourteen days on guished battle record in WW help, without you we can't complete the job for Matt. The board ship coming home in August, 1945. II N. Africa, Algeria, Tunisia, following names I want them to be recognized by the Stay well everyone and looking forward to seeing every Sicily, Italy and finally D-Day readers of Octofoil. one in Hyannis in May.' on through to Germany. Aldore & Vicky Cook, Frank Kawalik, Herbert Taff-39th Respectfully submitted, When did Delbert enlist? Inf, Charles & Esther Libretto-60th Inf, John & Kate Slater, Mike Belmonte How old was he? When did Phil & Dorothy Omara-47th Inf, 186 Fleet Reserve of 1161 S. Lombard Ave., he join the 47th? Did he see Florida Hernando, Invernes Elks Lodge 2522 Florida, , Oak Park, Ill. service in -all these cam ,Brannen Banks of Florida, Vito Splendorio 9th Med, paigns? Are these questions -Joseph & Dorothy Williams 47th Inf, Mr. & Mrs. Sal' which can only be answered Agostinelli, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Kusel. by the military authorities to Contribution mailing address: a close relative I wonder! Peter A. Radichio, P.O. Box 1541, Homosassa Springs I would certainly like to Florida 34447. ' further my knowledge of , . these times of Delbert and 47th Inf. M Co. his comrades whilst they KATHRYN SCHRIFFEN 47th Inf. B. Co. were in England and his JOE KEARNS ED SARNOCINSKI short time in France. Apt. 102 246 Estate Dr. If you can help answer, 232441 St. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 any of these, I'm afraid Wilmington, NC 28403 I'm a pussycat compared rather jumbled questions, to you old timers. But I can Dad looks forward to guotes from veterans memo still see and read. Chalk me ' receiving the paper. His ries etc. it would be greatly up for 3 more years. mind is a little slow these appreciated. days but he remembers all Sickness has played it rough Yours Sincerely with my wife. This wil1 be #3 his buddies from the war Daniel B. Finnigan and 9th Infantry. He is we will miss. Miss the gang! unable to make the reunion This is about all I do with and wishes he could. Please the better half hurting. T.V. 1999 Reunion say hello to all his friends besides K.P. She trained me well! Woodrod Gardella of the 60th FA sends this photo of Hyannis, MA for him. Thank you. him receiving the New Jersey Distinguished Medal Authorized by the Governor and presented by Major May 23, May 26, General Paul Glazer the Adjutant General of New' De~efor nest iaue July 20th Jersey. Anyone interested contact the Veterans Affairs Public Office, 10 Eggert Crossing Rd., Lawrenceville, NJ 08048. THE 0 C TO FO' L
. Grec:'ter New York Area Chapter FLORIDA CHAPTER NEWSLEITER On Fnday evemng, March 19, 1999, fifteen members of BOARD OF GOVERNORS PHILIP BERMAN DEAD AT 72: The chapter lost one of the NY Chapter met at Masonic Hall at 71 W 23rd St MEMBER DIES its devoted, hard working Officer/Member when Philip ~YC. We were happy to see more attending 9th men po~~ Philip Berman, a member Berman died on Wednesday, March 24,1999 at his home. slbly due to. spring-like weather and longer dayiight. of the Board of Governors Phil was one of the originators of the Florida Chapter. He Chapter President Joe Killen opened the meeting with our from 1996 to 1998, died on served as President for 5 years and its Treasurer from March 24, 1999 after a brief· ple?ge of allegiance to the flag and he also gave the invo 1993 until his death. catIOn. ~ m~ment of silence was observed for our depart illness. He was 72 years old. His wife stated that Phil never quite recovered from a ed buddies m war and since. Phil served the Florida recent gall bladder operation. He was in and out of the Secretary Art Schmidt read the previous minutes and Chapter as President for five hospital for several months prior to being released in Treasurer AI Zenka gave the financial report. Killen read years and its Treasurer from March of this year. He passed away peacefully at his 1993 until his death. correspondence from George R. Van Leuven, 60th FA. Daytona Beach home. ~he daughter of Leonard Kupkowski, Mari Szwiybka, noti He served as a Bazooka Grave site services were held on Friday, March 26, fIed us that Leonard had died on February 4, 1999. Our Man with Company F, 60th 1999. Over 50 mourners attended the services at Mt. Sinai heartfelt condolences go to 'the Kupkowski family. Infantry. He was born in Cemetery, Daytona Beach. Representing the Florida A discussion of the proposed Matt Urban Monument Pittsburgh and moved to Chapter were Emil & Audrey De Donato, H.F. Stansell and Daytona Beach, FL in 1979. Fund for his gravesite in Arlington National Cemetery fol his wife Lila. !owe? The chapter donated $500 toward the fund which Phil was a Principal/Owner Phil is survived by his wife Barbara, three sons; Bruce, IS bemg proposed throughout the association. of K & H Weather Condition Sanford (Sandy), Mark, a daughter Lori Ann Nocera, a sis Plans for the 9th NY chapter annual memorial service ing Company in Florida ter, four grandchildren and two step grandchildren. ~t th.e VA National Cemetery on Long Island, May 15, were before he retired in 1998. The Florida Chapter Membership will sorely miss Phil fmalIzed and this scribe would contact cemetery officials He was a member of Berman....a dedicated Chapter Officer and a good person. for coordination. Congregation B'Nai Torah, FALL MEETING UPDATE: Because of the untimely death The Hyannis reunion was discussed and committee del the Jewish War Veterans of Phil Berman, who was Chairman and handling the e~ates were chosen: Nomination, Charlie liBretto; Post 300, The Moose Lodge details for the Fall Meeting, there will be some changes. Fman~e, Marty Gross; Newspaper, Arthur Schmidt and and The Jewish Men's Club. Since the published report in the last issue of the OCTO Joe Kd~en; By Laws, Adolph Wadalavage and AI Zenka, Philip Berman was the FOIL, the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort Hotel was sold and and !"Iscellaneous, Anton Dietrich. Joe Killen was Chairman of the 50th Annual is now under new Owners. The name has been changed appom~ed to the Board of Governors as Charlie liBretto Reunion that was held in to "THE PLAZA RESORT." Because no contract was was gomg off. New Orleans in 1995. He signed, the new management informed our Chapter After some other business, meeting was adjourned and worked very hard in organiz President, Richard Baudouy, that new negotiations are to the membership headed for the hospitality table for a ing and the growth of the take place. Upon the sad news of Phil Berman's death, a repast and casual conversation. Florida Chapter. committee was formed. It consists of Richard Baudouy, .Ot~er attending members not mentioned above: Anton He is survived by his wife Chairman, H.F. Stansell, Co-Chairman and Emil De Dletnch, Mike Ga~to, .Marty Gross, Ed Harris, Bill Klaus, Barbara, 3 sons, 1 daughter, Donato, Advertising/Promotion. Details will appear in the 4 grandchildren and 2 step Marv Levy, CharlIe LIBretto, AI Lipton Dan Quinn Joe next issue of the OCTOFOIL. Rzesniowicki, Herminio Suarez, and Adoiph Wadalav~ge. grandchildren. It will help the Committee tremendously if all members . April 16 Past Presidents Night The above photo shows who plan to attend or just thinking about attending will . On Apr~1 16, the chapter met at its usual command post Philip and Barbara at a 1993 drop Emil De Donato a note at 3650 S. W. Mosswood St., m Masomc Hall. Prez Joe Killen opened the meeting with Florida Chapter Officer's Dunnellon, FL 34431 or Phone: 352/489-4070. Invite the usual ceremony. Thirteen members attended Meeting held at the De friends, relatives, other veterans to join us...the more we Minutes and financial report were read by the secretary. Donato residence in have, the easier it is to negotiate with the hotels. You can and treasurer. Rainbow Lakes Estates, always cancel by notifying the committee 48 hours prior Dunnellon, Florida. Correspondence from Ray Gordon and William to the first Mal~ney were noted. Peter Radichio acknowledged Emil J. De Donato receipt of the $500 NY Chapter donation to the Matt 3650 SW Mosswood St Urban Monument Fund. Dunnellon, FL 34431 The .special occasion of this evening was the annual Ph: 352/489-4070 hononng of the NY Chapter Past Presidents. Eight of these officers were in attendance: Marty Gross, Emil Veterans will Langer, Marv Levy, Charlie liBretto, Arthur R. Schmidt, . Herminio Suarez, Adolph Wadalavage and Alphonse receive Zenka. Current president Joe Killen and the membership 60th Inf. applauded these 9th men for their dedication and leader- JOHNW. MILLER ShIp. . 1511 Cochise Dr. May Memorial Service and Picnic Arlington, TX 76012-4321 The NY Chapter Memorial Service plans for the Long Nearly 2 million older vet Island National Cemetery in Farmingdale, NY, was erans who never stopped affirmed by the director of Veteran Affairs. On Anped paying premiums on govern Forces Day, Saturday, May 15, we will meet between 10 ment-sponsored veterans' AM and 10:30 AM in the cemetery parking lot. We will life insurance will soon get Standi~g left to right: Katherine O'Grady (deceased then march to the main flagpole where an Octofoil floral checks from the govern 1/8/98), Barbara Bennan; Dorothy Heming· AudreY D wreath will be placed. A lectern for our service will be ment. The Department of Do?~to. Second row: John O'Grady (dece~d 7/6 9 ~ provided. Prez Joe Killen will open the ceremony and Veterans Affairs, which PhiliP. Berman (deceased 3/24/99); Wm Hemin !A~ members will be given an opportunity to offer their administers life insurance Schneld~r (deceased 1/29/96). Front row: H.F. St~sell thoughts remembering the 4,581 buddies who died in programs for veterans and and EmIl De Donato. Photo taken 11/6/93 Dunnellon WWII, and for members who have since left us. Taps will service members, will dis FL. ' conclude the ceremonies. Following the service we will tribute $751 million among WOMEN'S AUXILIARY NEWS travel a couple of miles to Bethpage State Park where we those older veterans, an by: Audrey De Donato will have a picnic. Since there will be no May meeting at average of $375 per person. SUE JOHNSTONE: Sue wrote a nice note saying that she our usual command post in NYC we will hold the meeting Only veterans who were is feeling fine but was sorry she missed the last National at the picnic. We hope many 9th men, wives and friends issued government-spon Reunion. Reason being is "that it is getting too tough to will join us to honor our past buddies and picnic with us. sored life insurance policies go the long distance." However, Sue is going to make a We especially call upon Long Island 9th men, who haven't between 1917, and 1956 will good effort to attend the Women's Auxiliary Meeting this participated in a while, to share this gratifying day with receive the payments. coming fall. She can be reached at 100 Glenns Lane #109 us: renewing old friendships and perpetuating the honor Included are: 1.6 million Dunedin, FL 34698 or phone: 813/736-3414. ' of the "Old Reliables" - your 9th Infantry Division! World War I veterans, who ANN ELICHIO: Ann is recovering from a 4th hip surgery. In the following week, members will sojourn to Hyannis hold National Service Life Her husband John stated that she had her \ast operation for the 54th Annual Reunion, May 22 through 26. Insurance ("V") policies; on October 20, 1998 at Tampa Hospital. Dr. Kehny Gusthe Our last NY Chapter meeting before the summer hiatus 19,000 other World War I performed the surgery. Ann is recovering nicely on this will be on Friday, June 18. veterans who hold U.S. 4th try and hopes to come to our meetings. John and Ann Those members attending not mentioned earlier: Anton Government Life Insurance spend their summers at 204 Mamosa Dr., Whiting, NJ Dietrich, Ed Harris, Al Lubrano and Joe Rzesniowicki. ("K") policies; 222,500 hold 08759. She will be delighted to hear from some of you Attention NY Chapter members: If you haven't paid ers of Veterans Special Life ladies...a "get-well-soon" card would be nice. your 1999 dues now's the time to catch up - $10 for one Insurance policies; 74,000 P.S. Send news tome: Audrey De Donato, 3650 SW year, $25 for 3 years, and $75 for lifetime membership. veterans who hold Veterans Mosswood St., Dunnellon, FL 34431 or Phone: 352/489 Make checks payable to Greater NY Chapter, 9th Inf Assn Reopened Insurance poli 4070. and send to Arthur R. Schmidt, Secretary, 9-12 Doran cies. These veterans will Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385. receive their checks in 1999 MarvLevy on the anniversary date of ROSTER UPDATE Co A 60th their policies. The amount of 2044 Ellen Drive each refund will depend Gray, Edward - Summer Address: 217 Hayes Ct., Merrick, NY 11566-5404 upon age, the type of insur Normandy Bch, NJ 08739 ance and the length of time Hart, Claude - Moved to: 8075 Beneva Rd. #5, Sarasota, FL their policy has been in 34238 Kadis, Julian - Deceased - date unknown Umited Edition Hardcover Books Still Available force. A VA statement explained that the payments Mickelson, Max - New address 1033 Newcastle B, Boca THE PAWNS OF WAR Raton, FL 33434 by: William Kreye - 39th Inf. represent diVIdends policy holders earned on premium Persing, Gifford, M. - New Member - 4411 Fairlawn Dr., (now deceased) Orlando, FL 32804 Engrossing, personal and historical account of WW II with payments as they accumu lated interest over the years.· Williamson, L.C. "Pat" - Moved to: 1733A 8th St. Dr. NE, the 9th Inf Div - from Ft. Bragg to Germany. Price: $10.95 + Hickory, NC 28601 $3 S&H. Send check payable to "Greater NY Chapter, 9th Inf Emil Dedonato Association (noting Pawns of War on check) to Secretary Continued on Page 5 3650 SW Mosswood St Arthur R. Schmidt, 89-12 Doran Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385. Dunnellon, FL 34431-3439 Continued Qn Page 6 Ph: 352-489-4070 THE 0 C TO:F 0 I ·L
COMPANYK VETS M COMPANY CHRONICLER Dear compadres: 4TfHINFANTRY Continued from .page 4 In learning the life of General Eddy many of my leads THE 4TfHLIVES! TWQ other factors led to turned out to be wild goose chases, par for the research KEN MYERS notified me in January that the last of the the.dividend payments. course. A recent one, dealing with the 9th's charge across 47th. was, indeed, about to be the last of the 47th. The First, veterans are living the Cherbourg Peninsula, was at least interesting. This 2nd. Btn, 47th. was at Ft. Leonard Woods and would soon longer than actuaries antici action created a whopping salient, six miles deep on be deactivated. He suggested that we get all the 47th. pated when they formulated either flank and four miles wide from Barneville to Port men who could write, to write a Colonel at Ft. Benning. the various government We did and a General at Benning sent us all letters say Bail which extended the front 16 miles, a stretch remind w~uld sponsored veterans insur ful of Tunisia. ing he love to have the 47th., but this was con- trolled by the CENTER of MILITARY HISTORY. . ance programs years ago. Eddy spotted his infantry battalions at the obvious I got on the internet and found some names to WrIte Second, the premiums spots where Germans trying to relieve the cut-off earned greater interest while and E-mail, which I did. On the 2nd. of April I got a letter Cherbourg from the south, or those seeking to escape the sitting in trust funds than from the HISTORIAN'S which said the 3rd. Btn., 47th. had net by breaking out from the north, might be frustrated. planners anticipated. Only been activated at Benning on the 1st. of March and that Initially there was not much action on the southern flank veterans who continue to the 2nd. Btn. would be Wood on the 5th. of April and but there was plenty going on at Barneville where the hold the policies described reactivated at Benning on the 15th. of April. OUR CUP coastal road from Cherbourg had been cut by the 3rd above will receive the pay RUNNETH OVER. Battalion of the 60th (Major Kenne N. Wilson) and inland ments. Anyone who discon It would be terrible for us old farts living longer than at St Saveur de la Nehou where the main road south from tinued coverage will not. our regiment. I am not clear whether the new army has the port was blocked by the 1st Battalion of the 39th regiments, they have gone to Brigades that have twos Persons covered by Service (Major H. Price Tucker). These break-out attempts of the members' Grol,lp Life instead of threes but maybe two is a regiment now. In any German 77th Infantry Division were extremely costly to Insurance (SGLI), modern case, as training btns. at Benning they should be pretty this formation which had been brought back and renovat VA-sponsored special life safe for some time. ed after Russian service, and refilled mostly with young insurance programs for dis ROLLCALL conscripts and "volunteers" from POW cages and slave abled veterans or mortgage JOE KILACKY is still walking on his mal-functioning God labor camps. The 77th had not been much involved in the life insurance will not given legs and resists the expert medical advice of defense at Utah Beach, but after the fiercely contested receive refunds. Modern-era CORVINO and JORDAN to get it fixed. He'll never make break-out attempts, when there were fewer than 2,000 veterans should not confuse the MASTERS this way. Only one pro has court permis efectives left and all its general officers were gone, an the VA's latest announce sion to ride. Oberst Rudolph Bacherer broke up what was left into ment with the "dividend JOE sent some clippings from the military savvy small parties and ordered them to infiltrate through the hoax" that has confused vet Chicago papers, about winning wars with airI?ow~r. I told 9th's positions and reform on the other side. erans and vexed VA officials JOE when I called him, that fighting a war With aIrpower for more than 30 years. SGLI This operation was successful. As described in the US was'like letting a fart at a tea party, it doesn't hurt any and Veterans' Group Life War Department's From Utah Beach to Cherbourg: "A bat body, but it makes everyone mad as hell. Insurance (VGLl) do not pay talion of the 1050th Regiment (a part of the German 77th) HELEN HOLMES is bearing up and doing well. dividends. Reports to the temporarily wrestled control of a bridge over the Ollande RED THOMPSON, despite rumors to the contrary, is contrary, which frequently River near St. Lo 0' Ourville on 19 June, took a consider still alive and kicking. . surface, are false. able number of American prisoners, and opened the way DR. NICKLIN fell on the indigenous ice and broke hiS for Colonel Bacherer to lead from 1200-1400 men through leg. He can't follow the admon~tion, "p~y~ician heal thy the American lines. (There were no US units identified in self" it would necessitate crossmg speCialIst borders. this account). J.W. ARNOLD said he was going to get in touch with the Seeking confirmation of what might have been at least Dentist, J.T. WEATHERALL because he was an OK guy. 60th Inf. A. Co. partially Eddy's responsibility, I looked for some veterans ROBERT PAPPAS STATISTICS of the 77th who might be alive yet in Germany, I found Here are some of the 9th. Division STATS that I pulled P.O. Box 10385 several who referred me to the German military historian Silvis, IL 61282 off the web while looking for a contact to save the 47th. Paul Carrell's Invasion! They're coming! I learned in this The Ninth had 264 days of combat in which: First of all, let me give my book: "I Battalion, 1950th Infantry Regiment (77th Div.) heartfelt thanks for the work 2,905 were killed launched an old-fashioned assault on the enemy bridge 14,066 were wounded 'you do in keeping the head with fixed bayonets under covering fire from a light Octofoil running so that us 792 were missing machine gun. The battalion took the bridge, decimated 868 were captured division members know the 2nd Battalion of the American 47th Regiment and what is going on from other 18,631 total battle casualties took numerous prisoners. They reached the German lines 15,233 non-battle casualties comrades who drop a line with all their wounded, 250 prisoners and 12 captured now and then. It's been a 33,864 total casualties jeeps." % of T/0 strength 240.4% long time since I've dropped Wow! I thought, Eddy was indeed responsible if he a line, so I suppose this will They label the casualties as TENTATIVE. Well, I guess failed to see that the 2/47 set up an all-around defense of so we had more than that in K Company alone. I wonder be a surprise to many from their position. Coming from the north after infiltrating the Illinois and Florida chap what was so dangerous about the rear echelon? Virulent through our lines, the krauts had apparently surprised gonorrhea? ters. Three years and 10 the 2/47th and cleaned house. days ~go I had a severe The number of combat days looks suspicious to me. I heart attack in which the But wait just a minute! After we crossed the peninsula, had almost that many in 8 months and that works out to staff at the hospital used our 3rd battalion was just down the road from the 2/47th only 124 casualties a day, give me a break. those famous sticks on me 3 and, as I remembered it, after we cut the coastal road on In the INDIVIDUAL AWARDS it doesn't have the two times to bring me back to the night of 17-18 June, we had only a few hours rest and Medals of Honor that I know about, but they say we had: stay around for awhile then were ordered to head north and take up the capture DSC 86 longer. I still go to Cardiac of Cherbourg. If the German attack from the rear against Legion of Merit 6 Rehab 2 times a week to try the 2/47th didn't come off until the 19th, the entire 47th Silver Star 1,789 and stay in shape. 3 minor was probably out of there, replaced by the 90th Soldiers Medal 55 operations in past 7 months Division's 357th Infantry, when the stuff hit the fan. I Bronze Star 5,518 on hand and left shoulder found some back-up on this point. DFC 1 and just now getting able to Walter O'Keefe, then a machine gun section leader of Air Medal 124 work out with weights. E/47 confirmed my recollection: "We had just finished our And it says we took 113,324 prisoners. We probably got Moved back to Illinois when holes on the final objective when the deuce-and-a-halfs that many out of Cherbourg. What we needed was a my wife passed. away in '92. were there to take us north to capture Cherbourg. We did LEGION OF MERIT records keeper. . Co. K 47th Int. It's been a tough go since not wait for the 90th guys who were supposed to relieve Chester H. Jordan then but I now have a won us." 1058 West Lakeview Dr. derful companion to keep When I told General "Chip" Maness what the German Baton Rouge, LA me on my toes. We do a lot historian had alleged, he gave me his best full-bore blast: 70~10-4641 of traveling together. "That's a crock! We only saw the krauts rear ends as they Bowling and golf also keep took off. None ever came at us with bayonets!" Reminder from the Awards Committee .. us busy. Enclosed is check My search for the truth of who let Oberst Bacherer and Whether or not you use a VA facility for youi" ~ health for memorial fund in memo company out of the bag next led me to the fine oral histo care you can do other veterans a favor at no cost to you ry of General Randle. Again ry of the 90th Infantry Division, War from the Ground Up, by simply going to the Chief of Volun~eers, ask for.a many thanks and also to by John Colby, which included r.em~rk~ ?f a Lt.. Col. "wish list" or an item needed for patient comfort or Marie. Goa Bless to all. Edward Hamilton whom I located In VirgInia. Hamilton, need· other than toilet articles, socks etc. as they are the 90th's assistant G3, had been sent down to relieve the constantly supplied by various groups. CO of the 1/357th after that units tangle with the This would be one way to PERPETUATE our Ninth 60th Inf. Co. E. Germans. He is quoted in the Colby book: "The battalion Infantry Division of World War two for years to ~ome. SAL COLUMBIA (1/357) was occupying a defensive position south of a Just give our name and address to the Chief-of 1504 Whistler Rd. small river with its estuary in the English Channel on the Volunteers and he/she can send the needed list to aq~ Bel Air, Md 21015 west coast of the Cotentin Peninsula at Port Bail... the of the following or better yet to each of the three com- Enclosed find check for battalion was in a blocking position on the western sec mittee members. . three year dues. Will be 76 tor and terminus of the American line cutting the penin Lawrence Mclaughlin - 5915 - 18th St. N (Coral '6) years young soon and fairly sula. Two days earlier (21 June) it was attacked in the St. Petersburg, FL - 33614 good health. To give a little gray light of dawn by German units attempting to escape Adolph Wadalavage - 94-30 96 St. - Ozone Park, NY about myself, I joined the the American assault in order to regain German units to 11416-160S 9th Division in France and the south." Joseph Williams, 1800 Hollyoak Lake Rd. E., was wounded in Normandy, Now I can see why claiming a victory over 2/47 of the JacksOnville, FL 32225 July 20, 1944 and again in 9th sounds a hell of a lot better than would a victory over Larry Mclaughlin, Chairman the Hurtgen Forest, Oct. 11, 1/357 of the 90th, but this is calumnious. Shades .of 1944. Enjoy reading the Stephen Ambrose! I've written Herr Carell and asked him Octofoil and wish you all the to set the record straight in the future· Octofoil. We'll see best. what happens. Red Phillips Remember the dates 14002 Hemlock Dr. May 23-26, 1999 Penn Valley, CA 95946 (530) 432-1409 Hyannis, Mass. THE OCTOFOIL
Michigan Notes: B Co. 47th Inf. Dear Dan: DENNIS CANEDY .Time Again to be the bearer of sad news. Our good I thought the attached was pretty good & that a lot of fnend and loyal chapter member, Don Lewis, passed 117 Rocky Hill Ave. 9th fellows might like to read it, if you can fit it into the away this past month. His sister, in Vassare, Mi, called New Britain, CT 06051 next Octofoil. Keep well. . me with the news. I recently had a below the Sincerely knee amputation of my left Don and Helen will be remembered as the ones who Edwin Lusk leg, due to diabetes and rose early to reserve our picnic spot at Kensington 5-3 3rd Bn 60th Int. poor circulation. And there Metro Park in Detroit, Mi. What good times we had then. 1941-1943 Don served in B Co. 47th Inf. by hangs a tale. On March 10, 1945 on the Remagen In any event life must go on. We look forward to What isa Vet bridgehead, I went into a remembering Joseph Boudreau at a memorial service to A friend forwarded this to me. It's anonymous, as far as be held at his grave site in Bay City, Mi. in June. stone barn to sleep, there I know. This, of course, follows our trip to National Reunion in were already two GIs in Some veterans bear visible signs of their service: a Hyannas. Tom Hatton, Elmer Wagner and I are flying out there. Sgt. Frank Halpin missing limb, a jagged scar, a certain look in the eye. came in and said, "Move together, arriving on Friday. Others may carry the evidence inside them: a pin holding over Canedy!" I obliged and I'm looking for a large turn out. I know we are getting a bone together, a piece of shrapnel in the leg - or per went to sleep. Halpin laid old and creaking in every joint but think on it. It might be haps another sort of inner steel: the soul's ally forged in down in the spot I vacated. the last time that we can get together with those who the refinery of adversity. Except in parades, however, the Around 3 in the morning I played a big part in our lives·. Unless we lied about our men and women who have kept America safe wear no was a\Vakened by Halpin age we all have to be in our late seventies or older. badge or emblem. You can't tell a vet just by looking. who said. "My leg is off!" A Now back to the future. In August we gather for our What is a vet? He is the cop on the beat who spent six annual picnic at the home of Art and'Mary Doering in large shell had landed near ~onths by and a fragment had sev in Saudi Arabia sweating two gallons a day mak Alto;Mi. ' . - mg sure the armored personnel carriers didn't run out of ered his leg below the, '. "This was a fun time last year. They have spacious knee. fuel. He is the barroom loudmouth, dumber than five With the help of the other gtoundsso there will be room for yOll to:join us. " wooden planks, whose 'overgrown frat-boy behavior is men, I applied sulfanilamide . Sincerely outweighed a hundred times in the cosmic scales by four and dressed the wound and
9th Recon. 9th Inf. SEEKING RICHARD W. DeMOSKE NEW YORK STATE SENATE Co. B. 15 Combat Eng. ALBANY, NEW YORK 12247 A few years ago, I adopted 2004 Hunter's Ridge CHARLIE HOFFMANN the graves of two U.S. sol Dear Mr. Quinn: Martinsburg, WV 25401 91-4381 St. diers, two brothers who lie As you well know, the men and women who served our I am informed by the US Woodhaven, NY side by side at the American country in the Armed Forces have risked their lives to Army Center of Military When I sent you the letter Military cemetery, Henri History that you are the ensure our safety and liberty. Many of them made the I wrote to Stephen Ambrose Chapelle, Belgium. ultimate sacrifice and never returned home to their fami point of contact for the 9th I asked you to put his reply One of them, DICKES, lies and loved ones. We owe all the veterans who served Infantry Association. I am that was sent to me. It is a Stewart F. served in the 87th our country a tremendous debt of gratitude for their ded not familiar with the sort of an apology even Infantry Division, but his ication and courage. resources you have so it is though he says it wasn't my brother DICKES, Forest Lee, Together with many others who grew up in the thirties somewhat difficult to form intent to put down the 9th was a Private in the 39th and forties, I have always felt that World War II was the my inquiry. As a former Int. Div. He is phoney since Infantry regiment, one of the member of the 9th defining moment in the history of the United States and he put our 9th Div. down in the world this century. regiments assigned to the Reconnaissance Troop of both of his books. First in 9th infantry division. the 9th Infantry Division I My daughter and son-in-law recently gave me a copy of "Band of Brothers" and "The Greatest Generation" by Tom Brokaw, which spot Concerning this last sol am mainly interested .in the again in "Citizen Soldiers." dier, I only know the infor lights this period of our history. I found it so interesting 9th Recon during WW II and Here is his reply to me. mation registered on the that I have already given copies to my uncle and several especially the European The other letter is from certificate of adoption campaign. If you can tell me other friends. It is a nostalgic tribute to our heroes of the Andy Rooney who is on 60 annexed herewith. truly greatest generation and I urge that you try to obtain of their route through Africa minutes C.B.S. TV. He knows I really would like to know a copy and read it. . and Europe in some detail, I the real story of our great him better and have an idea In recognition of the important role veterans played m 9th Div. would be gratefuL I also of what was his military life wonder if there are rosters our history and their efforts over the years here in New Please put them in this and death. York State, the Senate has passed bills recently designed and personnel information time. . As he received the Purple to provide veterans with additional education and tax available for 1995-96. Thank Heart, I assume he was benefits. The Senate passage of these bills coincided with you for any help you can wounded at one time. As the American Legion's Legislative Day at the Capital. 47th Inf. D Co. provide. you will note, he also was I also wanted to let you know that the American Battle WALTER STANKO awarded the Silver Star and Monuments Commission is raising funds to build a 364 Bark Street B Co. 39th Inf the Bronze star medals, but JACK JEWELL national monument to the Americans who helped win Swansea, Mass. 02777 for which acts? I will appreciate knowing if 1049 N 800 Rd. World War II. I am proud to say that the State Senate will Through your association, ' reso~ution anything is being done to Baldwin City, KS 66006 provide $850,000 in its budget to help buH? could you supply me addi honor the late Lt. Col" Matt I wish to express my grati this fitting and proper tribute to theIr courage and dedI tional information'concern Urban, the most decorated tude to all those whose cation. ing Private Forest Lee· DICK combat soldier in the histo efforts have helped to, main Our Senate contribution will help fund construction of ES. the World War II Memorial on 7.4 acres of the National ry of this country. A com tain the spirit and enduring memorative stamp issued by Waiting for your answer,I sentiment among the mem Mall in Washington, D.C. I have also made a personal tha'nk you beforehand for donation since the monument is being funded through the United States Postal bers of the 9th Infantry Service would be very any help you could provide. Division. It is through this both public and private tax-deductible contributions. It Yours sincerely' . would be located between the Lincoln Memorial and appropriate and re'cognized worthwhile cause', initiated Julien Loncin Washington Monument. A Registry of Remembrances, by the nation for the honor and sustained by your dedi Rue de Gorhez 44 listing the names of Americans who participa~ed in t~e due him. Thank you. cation, that we pay respect B 4880 Aubel war effort, will be kept on permanent dIsplay In to our fellow soldiers and Belgium' Washington D.C., so future generations will .always 60th Inf. especially those who were remember the sacrifices of those who served theIr coun RAY WOLFE sacrificed during a noble crusade. With our common try in the greatest war· of all time. ~My donation in~l~des 2037 Hartland Cent~r Rd... 60th Inf. E Co. understanding ofpast 'expe the name of my "Uncle Harry Andrew ScafIdI of Collins: OH 44826 . JOSEPH BLACK riences no further explana Ridgewood. If you are interested in recom~endi~g WW II My husband and I wantto 175 S. Anza S1. tion is needed. The Octofoil veterans' names, I will be glad to have addItIOnal mforma thank the Ninth Infantry El Cajon, Ca. 92020 .." tion sent to you. Division Association for has been an excellent 'source I received'the Mar-April for expression of mutual This national World War II monument will be some allowing us to attend last issue of the Octofoll. So far I thing·thatall Americans can be proud of ... I know I am year's reunion at Hampton, interests. THANKS!' r salute have only seen two men of E you all. I have enclosed pay proud of our veterans and proud to support this noble Virginia. Dad (Ray Wolfe) Co. 60th regiment, of whfch I' ment for a Life Membership effort. enjoys and looks forward to became a member on Dec. Sincerely, his reunions. We haven't in the NinthInfantry Division 29th, 1944: I was woundeq Association.. SERPHIN R. MALTESE made reservations for him March 9th, 1945 an'd re Senator, Queens County for Hyannis, Mass. yet. Wait turned to my unit about the P.S. The Conspicuous .Service Cross is a way for New ing to see how he feels. He last of April 1945, until the C. Btry 26th F.A. Bn& York State to honor individual veterans for their distin had a head cold and still end of the war. Divarty " .' '. guished service in the time of war. If you are or know of a treating ~n ear infection. Although I had only a few BORIS RAYNES veteran who may be eligible for this honor, please con He's been house bound months of combat I'm proud 2532 Chelsea Road tact me for an application. except for trips to doctor for to have been in the Ninth Palos Verdes Estates, CA the last three weeks. Dad Division. I got to see what 90274 .. 39th B Inf L Co isn't able to write letters. He JOHN VAN SON hell was like, and the hor Rec'eived the current received a Christmas card year's copy of the Octofoil LC0471nf& 22300 Copa De Oro rors of war that every man from his buddy and friend who ever fought in a war and realized time wasspeed 3rd BN Hdqs 47th Oro Grande, CA 92368 Samuel Carlick. I picked up a Well I just looked at my was to experience. No one ily passing with the need to LYLE KELLY Ninth Infantry Division and dues~ gl~dly paper and I am in the rears will ever know what the renew my So I N 6153 Hwy A the utmost extent of our enclose my three year mem Deerbrook, Wi. 54424 with my dues~ American s'oldiers went power hat pins at your bership fee, and hope that I Enclosed is check for I wish I could get around through and gave .lor our reunion in Hampton. I would country. Maybe most can see it and most of us three more years of mem better. Can't drive anymore. like to buy the 60th Infantry ~iv Have a golf cart to get Americans now don't give a into 2,003 when ·my driver's bership in the 9th Go Devil. Do you know if license also expir~s and can 'Association, also a donation around the small farm. I like damn, but I do, and I always anyone sells them? Dad (Ray renew them both. Thinking to the Matt Urban Memorial to read all of the paper when Will. Wolfe) said to say hi and No maHer what we 9th mortal thoughts, as 1always Fund. it comes. Sure like the sto hopes to see everybody at I still keep in touch with ries some of the guys tell. I Divisjo:n men may agree or do on reading the casualty Hyannis, Mass. reports of each is·sue; I also Ben Kovacs, and Al Bravin, was in L Co 39th Int. I am disagree on; there will b~ enclose a contribution to the 3rd BTL 47th men. AI is ina very proud that I was in the always: a- 9th Diyision of Memorial Fund inmemQry of nursing home, Upper New World War II and its magnifi Ninth Div. Trent Palmer of Company "'I" York, not in the best of cent records are written down on records dipped in 39th Inf. I was made an hon health! Ben is doing OK. orary member of that fine As for myself here in blood of our slain comrades group on the sponsorship of Northern Wisconsin - doing ,and it Will be so until the end of time. To all men of Don Lavender, based on my good, retired and keep in support of Co. "I" as a for shape. Have 'had a few med the 9th Division you are my heroes. ward observer from Btry "c" ical set backs, otherwise OK. 26th FA Bn. I feel like an We do enjoy the outside adopted orphan in that the and our grandchildren. only other member of my I do look forward to the in~er Btry I have met is Tom Octofoil, it has been an 'Boyle, our loyal treasurer. esting source of infor"!at~on of the 9th Div. ASSOCIatIOn members. I've been a mem ber since the start. Dan I want to thank you Request for Medals of World War I~. . for keeping us going all From time to time one of our members WIll mqUlre these years. Thanks again, where he may receive medals from his time with the keep up the good work. Best Ninth. For those interested write to: U.S. Army Reserve of health to you & yours. Maneuv~ Personnel Center, Attn: DARP-PAS-EAW, 9700 Page Blvd., Moises Marrero sends this photo taken on of St. Louis, Mo. 63132-5200. . Lyle Kelly from tent city to E Company 47th Inf: 1941 (Carolina) - Front row L to k the Elbe river! Your request should include your serial number, date Nevers, O'Malley, McDonough, Lombardi, Back ro,w.: and place of birth, of course your full name, address, In case anyone remembers Marrero, Fenrey, Harris, Leone. He didn't write if ~ey me and would like to get in made it or not, that is through the War. then and present, the dates served in the Army and by all to~cti, my address is above. means a copy of your separation document (DO Form 214). THE OCTOFOIL £
MRS. ANNA PATRICK SEEKING 24 Parsons Court Mahwah, NJ 07430 NANCY MORRELL 201-818-9489 59 EdgehiIl6r. Staff Sergeant Michael .-4 Lancaster, PA 17603 Partrick, 60th Field Artillery, : 0 B Co. 15th Engrs. I received your name from PAUL LISA 39th died on Ma,rch 21, 1999. : ." Ann Mix from AWON. I am Born in Brownsville, 1-0 6638 Claridge St. DONALD E. LAVENDER researching my father's • Philadelphia, Pa. 19000 Pennsylvania, he served ? 2913 49th Street death in WW II. with the Ninth Division in Enciosed is my check for Des Moines, IA 50310 Since I was a baby when $40.00. I'm paying my 3 yrs North Africa, Sicily, France ~ he died, I've never known and Germany. He was award- ~ membership dues. I'm him, yet feel his ultimate enclosing $15.00 for the In May, I sent you some ed the Bronze Star for meri- a.".... c sacrifice was the biggest torious service. • E memorial fund for the fol information about the two loss of my life. lowing: Isadore Cohen, young Belgian fellows who Following his discharge, ft dig the old battlefield areas. No one in my family had Michael embarked on a long • Milton March and Holt Rast. any of the facts straight" f. They had established a rela career with the New York "May they rest in peace." regarding his death - too tionship with the 99th divi Telephone Company, retir- Z sion. Last month, my wife painful to discuss. But, I've ing as District Manager and !' 34th F.A. Bn. always asked questions and KENNETH S. JENKS and I met both of these Superintendent of Buildings I Belgians again in Kansas wanted to know more. Now and Motor Vehicles in 1979 271 Park Avenue that we have AWON I'm Westbury, New York 11590 City where they were guests .inf~rma with 33 years of service. of the 99th. At that time, finally getting the Michael retraced some of Thank you for your quick tion I've craved: facts about response to my recent letter they told us they had been his experiences with the digging in the area of his actual death, where and Army during a family trip to - and for the copy of The how it happened. Kalterherberg and had England, France and Octofoil. I have already writ What I'm asking of you is ten to Joe Williams seeking found items related to our Germany in September 1986. help in locating anyone who Hqs Co 60th Inf help in finding a copy of Division. His loving wife Ann of 53 may remember my father. I KAREL GRIMM Eight Stars to Victory. They found a metal box years, four sons, Michael, want to know what he was 620 S. Waupaca St. I'm enclosing my check for which was addressed to a Gregory, Jonathan, Daniel like, what he talked about VVautorna, VVI54982 $25 - 3 years membership Sgt. Vernon Cratty of I Co. and daughter Nadine survive what type of man was he? Check for 3 years member - which can be credited to 39th. The found dog tags for Michael. He had five grand Did he have any close ship enclosed. the greater New York chap Clarence J. King, a single dog children. Michael was inter friends in his company that I StilI looking for someone ter. I do not know why I let tag for Salvador S. Gabriel, a red with military honors in could contact. His name is that served at Ft. Bragg from my membership lapse mess kit with the name C.J. New Hemstead, New York. Harvey W. Matheny, Com 40-42 in Hq Co 60th Int. I because I'm one of the "orig Busbey, 33232980, and a Thank You Dan pany G 39th Inf. 9th Division can't be the only one left, inals." A small group of us sterling silv~r ID bracelet - Died March 14, 1945 in although I didn't go through "regular red legs" in early with the name Lavern Nonnemacher 16021045. The SchweIfeld, Germany. He is Co B 9th Med BN what most of you did. Left August 1940 came down buried in Henri-Chappelle inscription on the back is PETER RADICHIO Ft. Bragg in 42 to get my from the Canadian border Cemetery in Belgium. He (5th Field Artillery - Madison ' "To Doc from Mary, July P.O. Box 1541 commission in the Sig. Corps 1944". was originally from Clarks Homosassa Springs, FL which lasted about a year Barracks, N.Y.) to form the burg, W. Va. 9th Division Artillery in the They have been able to 34447 and then went to the Air identify men from Co. I, K .I can be reached at: Nancy Taps sounded when I Force where I flew B-I7's in boondocks of Fort Bragg. A Morrell (717) 394-9631, 59 short while later I met 1st and L of the 39th. They also spoke to George Stein, he Europe. Saw a few 9th Div EdgehiIJ Dr" Lancaster, PA Lieutenant William C. found a revolver of either told me Ernest Bartroff patches but no one that I 17603.E-mail [email protected]. Westmoreland and the last French or British make passed away 1st week in knew. which they say is in good Thank you for any help March 1999. As for George Will not be able to go to time I spoke to the General you can offer. condition. he's doing OK and his wife Hyannis - maybe the next was in October of 1986 Sir~cerely, shortly before I retired from One of these young men . Nancy Morell Cathy is giving him her ten one. Wall Street. A thousand Jean Louis Seel-hq.s a disk B Co. 47th Inf. der lOVing care. This note is memories, beginning with for his computef:'that lists MR. LOUIS T. MARINES for 'the men'1n Co B & the August 1938 - and they most U.S. phone numbers 4802 Jaster Road 9th Medics. Send your card keep flooding back. and he is attempting to con Emmaus, PA 18049-5213 to Dorothy Bartroff 60 . B.Btry 84th F.A.B. tact some of these people. Please renew my member Smith Ave, Kingston, N.Y. CHESTER (Mike) MIKUS 12401. Let Dotty hear from 11154 Summers Cove Apt A C F.A. He has been successful in ship for 3 years and I hope Battery, 60th you all. Cheerio & God Bless. Fredricksburg, VA 22407 WOODROW C. GARDELLA some cases, but is still look to reach that time when I'll ing for some of them at the still be 82 years younger. Rest in peace Ernie we'll I served in the 9th Div. 87 Norwalk Avenue miss you.; from Bragg to the Elbe river. Whiting, N.J. 08759 time I write this. The Lord has been good to If you might be of assis me and still working part I have often wondered and Rarely do we hear about asked why we of the 9th Div. field artillery men. I know tance through the OCTO time, driving new Ford for a 60th lot Co I & Co K FOIL or membership lists, swap deal or pick up. LEO C. WILLIAMSON received very little credit you're out there, so let your and recognition we so self be heard. The enclosed some veteran or his family Recently drove to Hunt 1833 A- 8th St. Dr. NE heartily deserved. After photograph is about me, . would certainly be grateful. I ington W. Va. HOO miles and Hickory, NC 28601 reading Charlie Hoffman's Woodrow C. Gardella, have an Email contact with also to Cape May Court We are moving to 1733 A article in the Octofoil, i got rec~iving New Jersey's Mr. Seel. Thank you. House a 400 mile trip. My 8th St Dr. NE, Hickory NC the answer. From that, I "Distinguished Service membership card #0310. 28601,15 March. gather we were such an Medal" authorized by the SEEKING Recently I went to our town This will put us within 8 Dear Mr. Quinn, excellent fighting and Governor of New Jersey and hall and saw a flag on the hr. drive of our 12 grandchil I would like any informa- dependable division, that presented to me by Major wall from the 47th Reg of the dren and 10 min. from one. t Ion·\you can get for me any time any division need General Paul J. Glazar, The Civil War. I inquired and got #13. about the time'Earl L. Davis ed help, they took a regment Adjutant General of New a copy of the history of the Enclosing donation for was killed in Germany. What out of the 9th to help them Jersey. My records were 47th then. Memorial Fund. I would like to do is talk with to reach their objective. We destroyed by fire at the St. God Bless. someone who knew him, but did the fighting and they got Louis Army Reserve K Co. 60th Inf. the credit or "glory" for it. Personnel Center and after I know the chances of this JAMES E. HART JR F Co. 60th Inf. My son bought me the 54 years I am just receiving are slim, as most were prob 7 Nenagh Dr. CLIFFORD PAINTER "Citizens Soldiers" book. I medals that I am entitled to: ably killed at the same time. Talleyville, DE 19803 However, just maybe, I 4070 Oakhurst Drive started to read it until I read Anyone interested in receiv I am a bit late this year found out from family mem Sarasota, FL 34233 ' the review in the OctofoiI by ing this medal contact the with my dues. Been fortu bers that Earl is my real dad. See by the Octofoi! label Joe Killen. I thought it would New Jersey Department of nate enough to have had a I am 56 years old and this and the new numbering sys be a waste of time to contin Military & Veterans Affairs, rather lengthy Florida vaca was a surprise to me. I am tem that my membership Public Affairs Office, 101 tion. My wife and I had a ue. Guys like Stephen the oldest of 9 children. dues are due. Have enclosed Ambrose would be better off Eggert Crossing Road, very good time. . Most of my family that a check for $25.00. This lo~k Lawrenceville, New Jersey Every month I for writing fiction or better yet, would know information are should keep me in good 08648; I have been seeking ward to receiving the just stop writing. dead - (mom, dad, grand standing through 2001. Ed. Grzymkowski and Octofoil and read it cover to John Van Demeded, Glad parents). Earl has a brother Rosalie and I are again cover. It is wonderful that to know that you are still Donald Lawrence - where enjoying a warm and dry are you men, sound off! - Leroy Davis - who has after all these years our hanging in there. Don't give been' a great help to me 'winter' in Fla. Haven't made group is still close. up. You must have an excel:" Thank you for your many a final decision, but may not years of service Mr. Quinn. Enclosed is a copy of the let I know everyone joins me lent wife to take such good ter Earl's mom received of make it to the '99 Reunion in in thanking you and Marie care of you. Good luck to Co B 9th Med BN his death. May - our first time to miss for the unselfish work you you. DONALD HYDE Thank you for any help. since 1980. Have some com have done over the years to I hope Labecki, our cook 120 Wiley Ave. Patricia E. Millard plications about leaVing Fla. help keep this great associa and Padgett, our truck dri Deland, FL 32724 8621 Moonlight Ct. and need to be back in tion going so smoothly. ver, are in good health. They I see my dues are due. P.O. Box 8 Washington, PA for doctor Hope you have a great 1999. did not acknowledge my Enclosed is check for 3 West Point, IN 47992 appointments on May 27 & Christmas Cards for the last years. Please use balance in Phone # 765-572-2258 28. If we don't make it to couple of years. memory of Ernest Bartroff Hyannis our 9th Div & F Co CAlL OR WRlmA Closing with best wishes Co. B. 9th Medical BN who 60th friends will know why. FIlIFND to you Dan and your won passed away March 1st. '1999 Reunion Hope this note finds you & derful wife. Read the Octofoil from Hyannis, MA Marie doi,ng well and not ENCOURAGE lIlM" C. Mikus cover to cover but don't see haVing too much 'bad' much from the 9th Medics. May 23, May 28; weather to put up with. TO]OlNTIIE Keep up the good work. Warmest regards, -