VOLUME 39 2010 NUMBER 2 NATIONAL REUNION — BEST OF THE NORTH COUNTRY HIGHLIGHTED BY 65 YEARS OF THE TENTH MOUNTAIN

Flags of all states & territories recognized at Checking in with reunion coordinator Kim Bateman are the Humble family, Mountainfest Salute to the Nation. Harold (604-HQ), Jane, & Sue Sripharan. New York State’s “North Country” set between, a moving memorial ceremony in a dramatic stage for the 2010 Reunion of front of Hay’s Hall headquarters building Left: Old soldiers and younger ones the National Association of the 10th focused on the Mountaineer statue of past can find plenty to talk about. COL Mountain Division, Inc. helping present, and a rousing charge by Patrick Frank, commander, 3rd Brigade With a range of conditions from lower- Association president Mike Plummer to Combat Team is deep in discussion ing grey clouds to cloudless brilliant blue descendants and younger members that with William Gall (616-HQ, 10-ART- skies over green meadows and forests, “there is more to do, and it is your job to HQ), (COL, Ret.). and the sparkling Saint Lawrence River build on that legacy” and to carry on the and Lake Ontario as backdrop, delegates organization. Below: bunting and soldiers in and guests gathered some-175 strong to After a stop at the sports complex uniform —as well as benches celebrate and remember yesterday’s histo- named for WWII Medal of Honor recipi- around the shaded, ry and today’s events that will be tomor- ent John Magrath (a smaller facility had grassy grounds— row’s history. been dedicated the day before to the sec- welcome visitors to With Watertown’s Best Western and ond, more-recent recipient, Jared Monti) War of 1812 Black River Valley Club as headquarters, the buses and vans toured the post before complex in and a very full day spent at Fort Drum, time out for lunch at a new, state of the art Sackets Harbor, NY. participants spread out to take in Alexan- dining facility. A stop at the Heritage dria Bay and Sackets Harbor, as well as Center/USO/Off the Beatin’ Path gift other area features depending on the urge shop included a lecture on mountain war- to explore. An opening reception filled a fare by Dr. John E. Allen. ballroom with veterans from World War II On to Ft Drum’s annual “Mountainfest,” to today’s 10th soldiers and former com- where visitors wandered among aircraft of manding generals. Adding an interna- the 10th Avn Bde, HumVees and other ve- tional flavor were BG Janez and Cvetka hicles, and food and entertainment booths. Kavar from Slovenia who, with Brigadier Then all settled into comfortable chairs un- Bojan Pograjc and Brigadier Blaznik der canvas for a rousing Salute to the Na- Bostjan, represented the International tion, featuring an address by Secretary of Federation of Mountain Soldiers. the Army The Hon. John M. McHugh and The day on post started early and end- cheers as each of the 50 states and territo- ed late, so that those with the fortitude ries was recognized by a dip of its flag ac- took in everything from a command brief- companied by artillery fire. ing of the past 25 years since the Division The next day, while members of the was reactivated, to dazzling fireworks ac- Descendants Board of Directors and Na- companied by the 10th Mtn Div Band. In (Continued on Page 6) PAGE 2 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2 PRESIDENT’S REPORT Mike Plummer (10th Mountain Division LI) The paid membership numbers through 1 June, 2010: Category 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Editorial material and photographs should be clearly marked with the sender’s name and address. No photo- WWII 10th Mtn Div Veterans 1850 1718 1321 1004 845 graphs will be returned unless specifically requested. All materials should be sent to Felicity Hallanan, Bliz- WWII 10th Mtn Div Widows 323 335 259 187 161 zard Editor, 95 Zahler Tract, Sandy Creek, NY 13145, or by e-mail to [email protected]. Opinions WWII 10th Mtn Div Veterans Life 90 88 expressed in this publication reflect those of the magnificent soldiers of the 10th and do not necessarily con- WWII 10th Mtn Div Widows Life 47 46 form to accepted journalistic standards. Editor reserves the right to rewrite, renegotiate or refuse materials Honorary 24 26 28 25 23 submitted for publication. Questions? Contact the editor at 315-387-2929 or by e-mail. Members should also 10th Inf Div Veterans, Cold War 69 73 56 34 36 feel free to contact National President Mike Plummer at 315-782-4178 or e-mail [email protected]. Sub- scription rate for non-members: $20. per year. 10th Inf Div, Cold War, Widows 1 1 10th Inf Div Veterans, Cold War, Life 5 5 Friends of the 10th 24 64 71 57 41 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Friends of the 10th, Life 3 3 The National Executive Committee consists of the President (Committee Chairman), Senior Vice President, Associates 77 77 77 29 27 Secretary, Treasurer, Blizzard Editor, Executive Director, Quartermaster and two members-at-large, if need- Associates Widow 1 1 ed, to be appointed by the President (Article VII, Section 1, National Bylaws, National Association of the Associates Life 10 10 10th Mountain Division, Inc.) Other Mtn Units 23 30 23 13 10 The National Board of Directors consists of the Chairman of the Board, National President, National Senior Other Mtn Units Life 4 4 Vice President, National Secretary, National Treasurer, Blizzard Editor, Quartermaster, Executive Director, President of the 10th Mountain Division Foundation, all Chapter Presidents, and two voting members-at- 10th Mtn Div (LI) Veterans 166 269 893 247 258 large who may be appointed at the option of the President. (Article IV, Section 2, National Bylaws, National 10th Mtn Div (LI) Veterans Life 37 41 Association of the 10th Mountain Division, Inc.) VTANG 12 13 TOTAL 2556 2592 2612 1806 1624 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2. The membership totals for the various membership categories remains within IRS President Senior V.P. Melbourne, FL 32934 Michael Plummer (10th LI) Steve Coffey (Desc 87-F) gamefish [email protected] guidelines required to maintain the classification of a tax-exempt Veterans organiza- 121 Paddock Street 1630 York Mills Lane tion. However, membership remains our biggest challenge. We are not retaining Active Watertown, NY 13601 Reston, VA 20194 Executive Director Duty members because they move and we lose their addresses. WWII members are [email protected] [email protected] Craig Boss (10th LI) th 6880 Olmstead Rd. passing, as are their widows. The focus needs now to be on the over-180,000 10 Mtn Secretary Treasurer Lowville, NY 13362 Div (LI) Alumni. We have begun to work the social networks in order to get our mes- Gil Pearsall (10th LI) Richard R. Babbitt (10th LI) [email protected] 837 State Street 241 Clinton St., Apt. 6 sage out, but even with a lot of contacts, that effort has not translated into increased Carthage, NY 13619 Watertown, NY 13601 Blizzard Editor membership. I am also asking the Chapter Presidents to launch campaigns in their ge- [email protected] [email protected] Felicity Hallanan (Assoc) 95 Zahler Tract ographical areas. While we will use as much public media as possible, we will spend Quartermaster Fort Drum Historian & Liaison Sandy Creek, NY 13145 some money to pay for national-level media, and I expect that some Chapters will have Frank Thornton (Desc 85-L) Kevin Mulberger [email protected] to spend some money locally. If they do not have the money at the Chapter, I’ll try to 112 Maple Ave P 10,000 Chairman of the Board support them from National funds. Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 Fort Drum, NY 13602 John Weaver (10 Med) 3. The National Association of the 10th Mtn Div Nominating Committee assembled [email protected] [email protected] 10 Soundview Gardens, # A Port Washington, NY 11050 the following slate for the 2010 - 2013 Association leadership. It was voted on and ap- Web Master Chaplain proved at the 2 July Board of Directors meeting during the National Reunion in Water- Aldea LaParr Dr. Larry Fields (Desc 85-HQ) Resource Center Liaison [email protected] 6300 Deane Hill Dr. Dan Whittemore town, NY, effective 1 Nov: Knoxville, TN 37919 4626 S. Wolff St. Membership Chair Chairman of the Board Albert Dowden (86-E, 90-A) [email protected] Denver, CO 80236 President Mike Plummer (HQ 10th Mtn Div) Ken Lopez (10th LI) [email protected] 128 Mill Creek Lane Film Librarian Senior VP Steve Coffey (Descendant 87-F) Sackets Harbor, NY 13685 H. Newcomb Eldredge (85-L) Presidents Emeriti Secretary Karen Neider (Associate) [email protected] P.O. Box 539 Earl E. Clark (87-HQ-1) M. N. “Mac” MacKenzie (85-C) Treasurer Rich Babbitt (2 BCT-10th Mtn Div LI) Newport, NH 03773 Hugh Evans (85-A, C) Programs [email protected] 4. The 2010 National Association’s Reunion was held 30 June – 4 July, 2010, in Wa- Al Condo (Assoc) Arthur Muschler (604-B) (deceased) Paul J. Gunderman (605-MED) tertown, NY. 3424 Ivy Lane Art Director Dean Carmichael (110-SIG) Newtown Square, PA 19073 Robert J. Wiebel Nate Morrell (10-Med) 5. The 2010 National Roster will be published after the 2 July elections. [email protected] 4690 Decatur Circle John J. Duffy (86-HQ-2) 6. The National Association’s Web Site has been updated. If you want to know more about what is going on in the National Association go to: www.10thmtndivassoc.org, CHAPTER PRESIDENTS and if you want to know more about the 10th Mtn Div go to: http://www.drum.army.mil Arizona Fort Drum Lower Michigan 7. The semi-annual EXCOM meeting was held in Philadelphia, PA, 20 March, Don Kitzman Mike Plummer Robert Lafean (Desc) 2010. The agenda for the 2010 Association Board of Directors meeting was developed 2131 Leisure World 121 Paddock Street 714 Lakeview Mesa, AZ 85206-5279 Watertown, NY 13601-3916 Port Huron, MI 48060 and the Association’s Strategic Plan was updated for BOD approval. Delaware River Valley Midwest 8. The QM has arranged for a vendor of grave markers/flag holders. The markers Patricia Thornton (Desc) Jerry Jurina (Desc) Mt. Rainier are quality bronze products weighing 2 pounds and available for under $100, including 112 Maple Ave. 5 Shannon Rd. Karl Stingl Bala Cynwyd., PA 19004 Kankakee, IL 60901-6009 10301 242nd Pl. SW postage. These may be customized by the purchaser. Contact Steve Foley, Metro New York North Central Edmonds, WA 98020-5779 #603.738.5292 or www.phoenixnftech.com/orders. A percentage of the profits will be Jay Charles Louis F. Anderson donated to the 10th Mtn Div Scholarship Fund. 20 Stuyvesant Oval, Apt. 4B 3504 Valento Circle Northwest New York, NY 10009-2206 James Bray 9. The Association was represented at the 2010 annual International Federation of Vadnais Heights, MN 55127-7172 th 9930 SW Inez St. Mountain Soldiers (IFMS) Congress in Bled, Slovenia, by MG (10 Mtn Div LI, Ret.) New England Rocky Mountain Brewster Bartlett Philip T. Berg (Desc) Tigard, OR 97224-4956 Greg Giles. He reported that the Association’s presentation on Mountain Warfare 300 Clough Pond Rd. 2592 W Dry Creek Ct Sierra Nevada Lessons Learned in Afghanistan was well received. It was given by LTC Nate Lord, Loudon, NH 03307 Littleton, CO 80120 Val Rios (Desc) Commander of the Army Mountain Warfare School. Southern California South East Bruce Campbell 6816 S. Maple 10. LTC (Ret.) John Russell attended the 2010 Tenth Mtn Div Foundation-sponsored Ed Van Romer Fresno, CA 93725 2320 Lorain Rd. PO Box 687 Memorial Day Ceremonies at Tennessee Pass and presented the Association’s wreath. San Marino, CA 91108 th Sandy Springs, SC 29677 Upper Peninsula 11. There were 41 applications for 10 Mtn Div (LI) scholarships received for aca- Upstate New York Utah Walter Cook demic year 2010-2011. Eight, $5,000 scholarships will be awarded in June. William Morrison Sandy Eldredge (Desc) 712 Hennepin Rd 341 Wormer Rd. 12. The next Return to Italy trip will be in 2012. 3939 Hale Drive Marquette, MI 49855 Voorheesville, NY 12186 Salt Lake City, UT 84124 13. Chapters are responsible for implementing their transition plans, transferring Washington D.C. th Armadillo Big Sky Chapter leadership to the Descendant or 10 Mtn Div (LI) members, during the next Phebe Davol (Desc) Suz Rittenhouse Kim Hudyma (Desc) three years. If you are having problems attracting these members, please let me know. 5675 W. FM 487 3978 E. Aspen Hill Ct. 114 Kingbrook Rd. Florence, TX 76527 Boise, ID 83706 Linthicum, Md. 21090-1947 (Continued on Page 3) 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 3 ART AND ARTISTS OF THE TENTH Dennis Hagen During World War II, the ranks of the 10th Mountain Division included a number of gifted artists. Some were classically or professionally trained while others were incred- ibly talented amateurs. Whether they created for their families, for future generations or simply for their own amusement, they shared a common desire to preserve a visual record of their wartime experiences and impressions. Crafted in various media from pencil drawings and pen and ink sketches, to watercolors and oil paintings, their cre- ations spanned formats that ranged from simple cartoons to elegant landscapes. Over a period of years, the Resource Center has obtained and preserved paintings, sketches and drawings that reflect the work of more than two-dozen of these veterans. Taken as a whole, this diverse collection provides a unique pictorial perspective of the Felicity Hallanan (Associate) desks, chairs, tables, beds and other major 10th Mtn Div’s history. furniture followed by the many boxes, It’s such a familiar scene, especially on George Earle (87-HQ), one of the Division’s most prolific artists, documented the carried on strong backs or the sturdy military posts and communities near them entire range of 10th Mountain experiences from Camp Hale, through Kiska to Lake carts. Rooms that had been home take on around the world. The huge tractor-trailer Garda. Working primarily in oil, Earle occasionally also dashed off quick pen and ink a vacant look, as though they belong to pulls up in front of a house or apartment sketches in the field, adding oil colors later. Amazingly, Earle even painted while actu- someone else as, indeed, they soon will. building. Out come flattened cardboard ally under enemy fire, completing some of his paintings in less than 30 minutes. He Gone are curtains, plants, carpets, books, boxes, thick quilts, two-wheeled dollies and carried the smallest tubes of oil paint he could find, created with a single, stubby brush and pictures. The memories go along, but assorted other tools of the trade called into and commonly substituted gasoline for turpentine. Sixty-three of Earle’s original paint- some stay behind as well. use when it’s time for a family to be part of ings and numerous prints grace the Resource Center collection. Beyond that, though, in their places the ritual of pulling up roots and moving on. Although many of Arnold Holeywell’s (86-HQ) watercolors portray post-war, Ital- –nothing, except for bare floors and Anxious adults wait at the door, or are ian villages and landscapes, his contributions also span the bulk of the Division’s histo- walls, and open windows where it feels as still inside trying to get just a few more ry. His Camp Hale images include a hauntingly beautiful watercolor of Cooper Hill on though the world is looking in. Indeed, things ready before the crew comes in that a moonlit night. Holeywell’s paintings also document Camp Swift, Texas and Camp through the day the neighbors are seen, will disrupt their lives for the next several Carson, Colorado. Occasionally, Holeywell created pencil sketches before working his standing in their doorways or wandering hours. If there are children, they’re torn be- subjects into exquisite watercolors. Notably, a sketchbook that Holeywell carried in over to view firsthand the dissolution of tween fear and fascination, watching as fa- battle was perforated by a chunk of German shrapnel during combat operations in Italy. another family’s way of life. Real friends miliar belongings are handled by unfamil- Donald Forker (86-B), Robert Fels (85-HQ-2) and Fritz Dillmann (MTG) have each bring food and drink for strength and con- iar people and begin disappearing into provided exquisite watercolor views of Camp Hale and its rock-climbing area. Frank solation as well as conversation. those cardboard boxes, now assembled Steinhardt’s (87-SVC) detailed watercolors and Denis Nunan’s (87-C) pencil sketches For this writer, it was a familiar scene, with generous use of plastic tape. document many aspects of the 87th Regiment’s operations on and around Kiska Island. yet none for which I had ever been person- In what seems an unseemly over-use of Paul Williams’ (85-F) insightful cartoons express the frustrations and the increduli- ally responsible –that was the burden of the brown wrapping paper, every coffee mug, ty that many veterans must have felt about their wartime experiences, especially during adults in the family. Now it was my turn to every lampshade, every teddy bear is training. In one delightful view, a mule chortles with evident glee as an intrepid 10th be the adult, to ensure that those things that swathed in an effort to cushion it from Mountain trooper staggers under the burden of a mountain-sized rucksack. In another, were important –and many that were not, breaking –everything, it seems, except an intransigent mule is labeled “future beefsteak.” In many ways, Williams’ characters but there wasn’t enough time for more some of the most-precious pieces which recall the familiar, long-suffering infantrymen immortalized by Bill Mauldin. sorting—were removed, transported and seem never to get the same attention, even Another 10th Mountain Division cartoonist of note was “Snuffy” O’Neil (86-I), relocated hundreds of miles away —not though their concerned owner is standing whose images of frantic downhill skiers appear to have been plucked directly from the far, as it happens, from Fort Drum. nearby watching with wringing hands. And cartoons that accompanied feature films during the late 1930s. O’Neil’s comic art was Finally it’s over, and with a wheeze at pity the homeowner who’s in one room also familiar throughout Aspen following the war. the heavy load taken on, the big van pulls while wrapping’s going on in another; Not all of the 10th’s artwork focused on wartime experiences. Virginia Binzen, wife away from the curb where its diesel has weeks, maybe months later things emerge of SSgt Peter Binzen (86-H), created a beautiful portfolio comprising six ink and wa- been idling the whole time. There’s a from those boxes looking nothing like tercolor prints during the 1997 “Return to Italy” reunion. Other artists, including Ted strange silence and then a reluctant turn what went in or, in at least one case, Harpainter (85-A) and Sol Gutow (605-B) have also documented reunion activities and toward the empty house where everything smelling (consider the pitcher that was 10th monuments through their works. In all, it is occasionally useful to view the history of but cleanup is over. packed so carefully… still half-full of milk the Division from a slightly different perspective – through the eyes of the artist. It’s such a familiar scene, especially from a hasty breakfast earlier that day …or now with school out and orders in hand. Dennis Hagen, Archivist, 10th Mountain Resource Center the wastebasket still full of trash). It’s so familiar, in fact, that few give The Denver Public Library Western History/Genealogy Department An inventory is begun, as item after thought to the many moving vans on the 10 West 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, CO 80204-2731 item is listed, a corresponding number highway. Still, next time you see one, you [email protected] ; #720.865.1812 pasted on before it heads out the door to might want to offer a little thank-you to be loaded into the giant trailer. Little by that military family, the life they have just little, rooms begin to empty out, with left and the new one they are beginning. PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Continued from Page 2) We want to “fold” as few chapter flags as possible. 14. An update on the activities of the 10th Mtn Div: A. The Division Headquarters is preparing for a Fall deployment to Afghanistan. B. The 1st Brigade Combat Team (BCT) has closed in to their Forward Operating Bases in Afghanistan. C. The 2nd BCT is in Iraq and will return in Dec. D. The 3rd BCT has returned from Afghanistan and has begun the resetting process. E The 4th BCT is in pre-deployment training and is scheduled to deploy in 2011; no destination has been announced. F. The 10th Aviation Brigade is in pre-deployment training and will deploy to Afghanistan in Nov. Reunion Resource Center kept curator Dennis Hagen busy, here with G. The Sustainment Brigade is in pre-deployment training, but has no orders. Larry Wilson (D, 87-HQ-1), Harris Haffner (604-B). Climb to Glory! PAGE 4 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2

VETERANS FIND THEY HAVE TENTH IN COMMON DURING CEREMONIES AT MILITARY CEMETERIES Frank Chuk (85-MED-2) In the May 1 -23, 2010, a return to ob- the occasion, along with BG John F. serve the 65th anniversary of Victory in Nichols, commander, HQ, Texas Air Na- Europe was conducted by the Greater tional Guard, .and Command Sergeant Generations Foundation. Major Juan Morales, Texas Military Travelers included 10 WWII Vets on Forces. the journey from Kasserine Pass battle- As the color guard was returning to field and cemetery, Tunisia, North Africa, their van and putting away the colors, I to Nuernberg, Germany, and the site of noted that one of them had a 10th Moun- the war crimes trials. Three 10th Mtn tain patch on his right shoulder, hurried Troopers —Bill Christensen (87-E), over to him and introduced myself. He Frank Chuk (85-MED-2) and Bob Yank said, “You’re a Combat Medic —I’m one (85-K) were selected to participate, along too,” lifting the lapel on his jacket expos- with eight other veterans and 20 college ing Combat badge above his many deco- students. ration. This of course made the bond even On the morning of Sunday, May 16, we closer. He was Sgt. Eric Pado of the 36th took part in a memorial Mass at the site Infantry Div. He’d retuned from Ready to hit the slopes, Tenth Annual Ski-In on the first day at Keystone on Monte Cassino Cemetery near where a Afghanistan Dec 24, 2009, where he had included, back row, left, Harvey Wieprecht, Jim Nassar, Andre Benoit, great many Polish Soldiers gave their served with 10th Mtn Div in combat. John Woodward, Bob Yank & Dick Dirkes; front, left, Jim Bray, “Souls to God, Their Bodies to Italy and Originally from New York, NY, after dis- Lawrence Shea and Hugh Evans. Their Hearts to Poland,” as inscribed on charge Eric had settled in Texas and the monument on the site. A wreath was joined the Guard.. HUT TRIP ADDS TO ANNUAL SKI-IN placed, and one of the color guard was a We on the tour finished off the day by David Christie (Desc, 85-F) member of the US Army. having a very nice meal in a very nice ris- th From there we moved to the site of the torante at Pegaso in the valley below San The finale to the 35 Tenth Annual scendants and friends. These impressive Battle of San Pietro where the 36th In- Pietro, along with the Texas Guard. Ski-In was the hut trip held on Feb. 25-27, young people are not only a delightful ad- fantry Division played a big role. Here an- And this is about the way it went up the 2010. dition but instill a sense that with all of other memorial service and wreath-laying boot into Austria and Germany. The expe- The intrepid Hugh Evans led a group of America’s challenges, we have a new gen- were held A full color guard from the rience with the students was beyond be- 14 backcountry skiers to Vance’s Cabin eration whom you can’t help but admire. th Texas 36th Div had flown in specially for lief. What a journey! northeast of the Tennessee Pass 10 Moun- Other outstanding veterans were LT tain Memorial. Some highlights included COLs Marvin Meeks and John Toth. skiing to Taylor Hill and Chicago Ridge. Marvin is working with ROTC Cadets at This is a tradition that has endured since Manuel High School in Denver, and john 1987, with this trip being Hugh’s 39th. On is with the program at U. of Colorado. 11 of those early trips, 10th veterans did two Nancy Kramer, daughter of William huts per trip, bringing his total to 50! Robertson (MED 87-G) was also a mem- Some of the vents who have made past ber of our group. trips include Newc Eldredge, Tom Duff, The 10th Huts are a fitting tribute to Bert Anger, Neil Dearborn, Phil Jobert, these inspirational men. Located in the Fred Winter, Hal Richards, Bob Thomp- pristine mountains around Camp Hale, son, Sol Gotow, Francis Crowley, Howard Aspen and Leadville, these extraordinary Koch, Andre Benoit, Bob Carlson, John structures are available year-round for Imbrie, Fred Golomb and others. skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and biking. During the last five years approxi- If you’re looking for an exceptional back- mately six ROTC (Reserve Officer Train- country adventure that the entire family ing Corps) Cadets from the University of will enjoy, I suggest that you start by Colorado have joined the veterans, de- looking at www.huts.org. Spanning generations but comrades-at-arms, 10th Mountain Division veterans (left) Bob Yank, SGT Eric Pardo, Frank Chuk and Bill Christensen together during cemetery observances in Italy.

To the Editor, I have been working with Dave Little (HON) and Hugh Evans (85-C, A) to find out as much as I can about the final days in the life of my Uncle, 1st LT Oliver J. LaMere. Dave suggested I place a note in “The Blizzard” to see if there are any of your readers who may have known La Mere and can provide information that would help answer some of our questions. 1st LT Oliver La Mere was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions at Mt. Della Spe, Italy, on April 14, 1945. We would like to know what he did to earn that recognition. Enjoying opening reception at reunion, left, Dale Alewine (86-HQ-1, A), He was killed at or near Castello on or about April 19, 1945. He is buried at the Amer- Karen Braker, Norman (D, 85-C) & Mary Burkey, & Hassell Vass (10-AT-A). (Continued on Page 8) 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 5 35th ANNUAL TENTH SKI-IN Hugh W. Evans (85-A, C) The 35th Annual Tenth Ski-In and the The annual 10th Mtn Div Biathlon, 2010 Vance Hut Trek both went rather well, but it’s not getting any easier, and it held Sunday, March 21, seemed to be seems we are becoming more forgetful. successful as there were more partic- Let’s see, Harvey Wieprecht (86-F) for- ipants this year. See the story on Page got his boots the first day, Kathy Wilson left 2 of the Descendants section. her poles at Cooper Hill, and your corre- spondent managed to leave his trail pants • Saturday everyone skied where they and grappa in the Holiday Inn lobby the day wished. Most stayed at Cooper Hill and the of the hut trip. Yes, Grappa! Gianfranco Del Columbine Inn in Leadville. Sunday all re- Santo brought a bottle all the way from Tor- turned to Frisco and a good number came bole, Italy. That is as much of the forgetful- to the annual 10th Resource Center meeting ness that your writer can remember, but you at the Holiday Inn. It went well, with lots of get the picture. Yes, remembering is getting inspiring ideas. That night was Denise Tay- more difficult every year, too. lor’s (Desc 126-D) delightful dinner for all • Starting on Feb 17, the first of six at her small cabin in Frisco. days, we had snow, light and fluffy. That • Monday, Paul Stubbe was at Breck- gave us powder to ski on which was great, enridge to greet us again even though he but we did miss the sun. The last two days has been retired for two years. We had a the sun came out and it was perfect. The great morning ski and then sang after resorts could not have been nicer to us lunch ending with, at Paul’s request, “God with free (Vets) and discounted (Camp Bless America.” Mountainfest displays featured choppers of the 10th Avn Bde. CW2 Justin Followers) lift tickets, guides, free park- Generally, there were about 20 to 30 Seimet (A Trp, 6-6 Cav) shares his OH-58 Kiowa & his military family ing, groomed slopes and free lunches. skiing with the 10th bunch each day, eight history with Larry Wilson (D, 87-HQ-1). • Tuesday, some whacko walked off of whom were Vets. There were about 80 with your correspondent’s skis. I had left supporting the 10th at Cooper Hill; 19 AVIATORS AND THEIR CHOPPERS ARE them on the rack to go in for lunch at the were Tenth Vets and two from other units. NEWEST VERSION OF MOUNTAIN SOLDIERS A-Basin Lodge. It turned out fine, howev- Besides those listed above the following PFC. Michael Snyder, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade Journalist er, because I found four ‘Lucky Pennies’ attended part or all: James J Nassar, Jr. Ed. Note: When the 10th Mountain we can get to Afghanistan terrain with in the sofa at the Holiday Inn that night (85-C), Andre E. Benoit (85-B, 86-B), Division was reactivated 25 years ago, one day of travel,” Baker said. when I put my hand down in the crack be- John B Woodward (87-HQ-1, 10-Recon), there were some who questioned its tween the sofa cushions. The next day at Robert Yank (85-K) Richard S. Dirkes One challenge with the training ex- designation as a “mountain” unit. Ini- Cooper Hill John Gordon gave me skis (86-E), James N. Bray (87-K), Albert ercise is the fact that Whiteface is host tial deployments were to places like and poles for the rest of the trip. Next Earl Dowden (86-E, 90-A) Nelson A. Bennett to a variety of both public and private Haiti, Somalia and even southern Clark (87-HQ-1) offered his skis, because (87-I, MTG), Richard C. Over (110 Sig- areas. Florida –none known for mountainous he is not skiing anymore. Then Rick John- nal), Orville Tomky (126-B) and six Speaking before the training began terrain. The current war has changed son offered his father’s skis (Charles H. members of his family covering four gen- Baker said, “We will be flying friendly, that, and now, as 10th aviators are Johnson, 85-G, 86-D, K, deceased), and erations; also Francis Kubisiak (86-D, B) environmental concerns will be ad- learning, mountain training has moved finally son-in-law Steve Clem offered a George A. Loudis (86-H), Gordon ‘Tiny’ dressed, and we will avoid densely into a new phase. pair. Not bad, four pair of skis and poles McWade (87-HQ-3), Stanley T. Walker populated areas.” for one lost pair. (86-A), Robert P. Thompson (86-B) Afghanistan features high, rugged Roughly 20 flights per week were In the end when the skier that had rent- Lawrence Shea (10th Mtn Div LI), John mountains and elevations of up to planned, with more than 100 pilots get- ed his skis at Breeze’s in Dumont tried to R. Gordon, Korea; and Jim DeSena. 6,000 feet – very important facts to ting an opportunity to fly to Whiteface, turn in my skis instead, Breezes called A- • Tuesday at Vail turned out to be our consider for pilots who are preparing which is about a 50-minute, one-way Basin and learned that they were mine; I first really sunny day. Vail Resorts had for upcoming deployments. flight. Once there, crews performed had reported them lost. The renter had to groomed Riva Ridge and Tourist Trap just This past May, 2010, soldiers with different maneuvers that they would pay for his lost skis and I picked mine up for us. It was superb! We ran that 1.5 mile 10th Combat Aviation Brigade sta- perform while deployed, such as quick- on the way home. The skis had ‘Hugh slope twice just to get it right. Steven and tioned at Ft. Drum, NY, conducted ly landing long enough to load or off- Evans’ in big letters and 10th decals on Deborah Clem (Desc 85-A, C) had to run high-altitude training at Whiteface load, then resuming flight. each one. Now I potentially have five it a third time to make sure it was as good Mountain near Lake Placid in the The biggest draw of Whiteface is its pair! All’s well that ends well. as it seemed. There was a bit of singing at Adirondack Mountains. Only a short increased elevation, compared to the • Friday the 19th, Cooper Hill Day, was the Eagle’s Nest lunch. flight from the post, the mountain Fort Drum area. on 10th Mtn Div Day. It had been 65 years to • The last Ski-In day was back at Key- boasts an elevation of roughly 5,000 “We’re really looking forward to the day that the 1st Battalion 86, plus F stone, and we skied from front to back feet, ideal preparation for their deploy- this because it’s very similar to Company, took Riva Ridge and the 87th & and from top to bottom before sitting ment to Afghanistan this Fall. Afghanistan,” said Capt. Sean Gaul, a 85th went up Monte Belvedere and Gorgo- down for lunch at the Monte Vista House. “The mountains of Afghanistan are UH-60 Blackhawk pilot with 3rd Gen- lesco. At noon the serpentine ski chain ran But the Vance Hut trek was the next day higher than these,” said Col. Jim Bak- eral Support Aviation Battalion, 10th from the top to bottom of Molly Mayfield so that afternoon I had to give up skiing to er, 10th Combat Avn Bde deputy com- CAB. “We haven’t done a lot of moun- with the flags out in front. As usual it buy the groceries for 84 hut trip meals. mander, “but this training gives pilots tain flying. It will be good training.” snowed for the Memorial Service at the Ten- What a pile of groceries! That evening, an appreciation of how wind affects One of the big differences to factor nessee Pass 10th Monument. The Silver Devin O’Neil, grandson of Snuffy the aircraft and how mountain terrain in, Gaul said, is the wind. Dollar Saloon was most happy to warm O’Neil, our great Blizzard cartoo- appears.” “The winds are much stronger at everyone up for dinner at the Brass Ass (of- nist, showed up for the banquet at the Hol- The training allows pilots to experi- the height we’ll be flying at,” he said. ficially know as the Golden Burro). About iday Inn. What a nice couple he and his ence for themselves the difference in The brigade sent OH-58 Kiowas, 30 were expected for dinner; 60 showed up bride were. All around it was a great Ski- flying at high altitudes, like those they Blackhawks, CH-47 Chinooks and and the overloaded wait staff did a fantastic In. My roomie, one James J. Nassar, Jr., will encounter in Afghanistan. AH-64 Apaches to Whiteface Moun- job of serving everyone with happy smiles said it was the best ever. You-all come “Whiteface Mountain is the closest tain through May 15. on all faces. next year. PAGE 6 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2 BACK TO ITALY 2010 Christy Bednar [wife of Fred Wendorf (86-G)] In March, 2010, Fred and I visited the way. He gave us the needed directions and mountains of Tuscany so that I could see then told us his wartime story of being for the first time the area where he fought saved by an American army doctor, who with the 10th Mountain Division, and he gave him sulfa for pneumonia (he was a 12- could revisit the battlefields of 1945. Fred year-old boy at the time). As we thanked had resisted going on this trip for 10 him to leave, he took Fred’s face into his years, but I finally wore him down. hands, kissed him on both cheeks, and said, I contacted my cousin (an expatriate in “I have you to thank for my freedom.” That Italy) for advice and she told me about a elicited the first of several episodes of tears friend of hers who owned a B&B in Buti, (at least on my part). on the flanks of a mountain between Pisa Bruno Bartolomei at the Hotel Monte- and Lucca. What a happy coincidence! grande was easy to find. He had been in- Michael Sandrin not only gave us a hos- strumental in organizing a reunion climb pitable welcome at Casa Bici Buti, but of Riva Ridge in 1995. Over lunch, he also drove us all over Tuscany and parts of showed us lots of 10th Mountain Division Emilia Romagna. materials and photos, including a history He was a terrific host, guide, translator by John Imbrie that included detailed and friend throughout this saga, and we maps showing Riva Ridge (could have highly recommend his lovely home in used that!!) and the assault on Buti. He knows lots of cool, out of the Belvedere/Della Torracio, including way, eateries. He has ridden his road bike Mount Terminale where Fred was wound- all over Tuscany, and he has a great sense ed. Fred gave Bruno a signed copy of of adventure. Desert Days, and we took lots of photos. After looking at the website for We did not try to go over to Riva Ridge Cutigliano, the mountain village where A solo return to Italy trip for Fred Wendorf received the same hospitality 10th because of the deep snow. Fred spent his first month in Italy pa- Mountain veterans have come to expect when bigger groups visit. Bruno also told us how to get to the trolling with partisans, I realized that it Among others, Carluccio Ceccarelli, right, Mayor of Cutigliano, nearby monument to the 10th and the little was possible to contact the mayor, Carluc- and Fred found much to talk about. church in Iola that John Compton’s par- cio Ceccarelli. Our wonderful Italian ents had reconstructed in their son’s mem- friend, Maria Gatto, sent him an email that day and our plans for the next day. Rivers through lovely mountain scenery ory. John Compton was the young soldier about our proposed visit, and he very The two highlights of the trip were the to Poretta Terme. killed by a sniper running toward the Ger- kindly put together an incredible day, day we spent finding Riva Ridge, and our The day had begun with lots of fog, man lines with Fred on the morning of which I will describe shortly. day in Cutigliano. We really did not know and Fred got discouraged. But Michael March 3, 1945, the day Fred was We spent a couple of fun, but beastly exactly where Riva Ridge was located, but and I insisted that we go on. When we ar- wounded. cold, days in Bologna with my cousin be- Michael got out his maps, and we jumped rived in Poretta Terme, Michael suggested When we got to Iola, the church was fore setting out via train to Florence, into “Bianca” the VW bus to find it. Fred buying a more local map. That was when closed for renovation, but we stuck our where Michael met us. We had lunch at remembered that Highway 64, running the magic began. The shopkeeper who heads in and were invited to come in by the Teatro del Sale, drove up to the over- north from Pistoia, was the main artery sold us the necessary road map gave us workmen who were resurfacing the ter- look where you can see all of Florence, for the Army, so we took that road. the number of a friend of hers who had razzo floor. We spent quite a while look- and then set our for Buti, chatting with Michael had looked at the sketch map in helped organize a 10th Mountain Division ing around, speaking to the workmen, Michael about what to do when. Desert Days: My Life as a Field Archaeol- reunion in 1995. Michael called her, and who had lost their father in the defense of The “what to do” included visiting the ogist (Fred’s memoir, published in 2008 she suggested we drive to Vidiciatico in Naples, and again having a good cry. See- coast for a terrific fish lunch, seeing the me- by SMU Press) and figured out that we southern Emila Romagna, find the Hotel ing the plaque dedicated to Compton on dieval walled city of Lucca, and sight-seeing needed to end up north and east of Montegrande, and ask for Bruno. the outside of the church and talking in Siena. We ate a lot of really good food, Cutigliano (on all the maps), so we As we set out for this segment of the about that day in Fred’s life was a very generally got back to Buti in time for a little branched off on Highway 623, driving up drive, we stopped an Italian gentleman on touching moment. We returned to Buti in siesta, and then nibbled and talked about the drainages of the Reno and Lima the road for directions to the proper high- (Continued on Page 15) NATIONAL REUNION — BEST OF THE NORTH COUNTRY (Continued from Page 1) warm but not overly-hot sunshine, as the velopment, and the 10th legacy,” Division tional Assn Board sat and deliberated for buses left for a day of exploring the revi- commander MG James L. Terry brought several hours each (the Foundation Board talized community of Sackets Harbor. the group up-to-date on the war in Iraq had met the first day), most reunion-goers Museum grounds and buildings with and Afghanistan and his vision of the next boarded the 3 big buses again for a jour- hosts in uniform of War of 1812 soldiers few years. ney slightly north. There they took in welcomed the group, as did guides at the Many lingered after dinner but, as all Alexandria Bay, the Thousand Islands and Seaway Trail visitors’ center. good things must, the Reunion came to a Boldt Castle by boat, and the Thousand The complex of Madison Barracks close and participants began departing Islands Winery established by a retired provided a look at history and the post that next, Sunday morning. And as all major of the 10th and his wife. whose architecture determined the design summaries can only do, this one comes to The day continued with unit dinners of the “new,” still-expanding Ft Drum an end with the promise of more photos that evening and, indeed, went on late into when the 10th Mtn Div (LI) was and other coverage in the next edition of the night as comrades reminisced and pa- reactivated. “Blizzard.” National Association President tient spouses listened and visited with The Farewell Banquet headed by Stay tuned –Sempre Avanti –and Mike Plummer (10th Mtn Div LI) friends they, too, have formed through the newly-reelected president Plummer filled Climb to Glory! with one of many well-wishers Association over the years. a room, again, with veterans from WWII Reunion photos and story as he is elected for a second, Saturday was another bright day of to today. Saying, “We focus on leader de- by Felicity Hallanan three-year term. 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 7 HISTORY OF ITALIAN ALPINI IS PART OF HISTORY OF THE TENTH Gianfranco Dal Santo The men of the 10th Mountain Divi- sion encountered and appreciated the Italian Alpini during their Italian Cam- paign (1944-45), as well as during their visits to the “old” battle fields in the Apennines and Northern Italy after WWII. A few words about the Alpini Corps might be of interest. When Italy was unified in 1861 dur- ing the reign of King Victor Emanuel II Slovenian guests at reunion included, left, Brigadier Blaznik Bostjan, BG (Ret.) of Savoy, the problem arose as to how Janez & Cvetka Kavar, & Brigadier Pograjc Bojan. The group brought a to defend the mountain passes along th display of 10 Mountain’s post-WWII history in their country, which will the Alps from possible attacks by be further shared in Washington, DC, New York and Cleveland. France and Austria, Italy’s archenemies since way back. At that time the Italian army didn’t have trained mountain troops (the same problem the American Army faced 80 mountains, I have been amazed in finding years later.) and observing WWI posts, trenches, tun- Captain Giuseppe Domenico Perruc- nels, still there to be seen. On the glacier chetti realized the deficiency. As an ex- Cresta Croce (12,000’) I have admired a pert mountaineer and a researcher of mili- cannon pulled from the valley by 1,000 tary operations previously conducted on Alpini and then positioned on the moun- alpine territory, he valiantly fought for the tain top. It was a six-month effort. formation of alpine troops and for the In June, 1940, WWII started in Italy. principle that the defense of alpine passes The Alpini fought in France, in Greece, should be in the hands of mountaineers. and on the Russian front, and their misery I’m tempted to compare Captain Perruc- didn’t end until Italy’s surrender to the Al- chetti to Minnie Dole! lied Forces on Sept. 8, 1943. Captain Perrucchetti’s campaign was Since the war, in a new climate of Above: Eisenhower jackets to dress successful when King Victor Emanuel peace and freedom, the Alpini have al- blues –Charles Smith (85-I) com- signed a decree (1872) whereby 15 alpine ways been active in humanitarian and pa- pares uniforms with MG James L. companies were formed. And thus the triotic events. th Terry (Commanding General, 10 Mtn Alpini Corps was born! The men of the 10th came in contact Div (LI) at reunion closing banquet. In the winter of 1896-97 the use of skis with the Alpini during the Italian Cam- Right: 10th Mountain veterans from was introduced. Swiss and Norwegian in- paign on the Apennines. The Alpini were WWII, Korea, Vietnam & Haiti- structors were summoned to assist and quite appreciated for their skill in leading Somalia laid the wreath. teach the basic skiing techniques to the long lines of mules loaded with weapons, Alpini and so the ski section of the Alpini ammunitions and provisions. Corps was born. After the war, when men of the 10th The skis were of the so called “Norwe- visited Italy, the Alpini took care of many gian model”: a hickory board, 9 cm (3.5”) events organized in their honor in the “vil- wide at the tip and 7 cm (2.34”) wide at lages on the hills,” where they had fought the back, and 1 to 3 cm (1/2” to 1”) thick. and many had died. They were 2.20 m (7’ 20’’) long while the The men of the 10th were always fasci- “bindings,” so to speak, consisted of a nated by the head gear the Alpini wore: a leather strap around the boot heel with a hat with a long black feather, and the em- QUARTERMASTER - FRANK THORNTON (Descendant) second strap tied around the tip of the blem of an eagle with spawned wings in ENJOY THE SUMMER WEATHER AND DISPLAY YOUR PRIDE IN THE 10TH BY USING THESE 10TH ITEMS. SEE THE COMPLETE boot. A single bamboo stick with an iron front. After the war some of them brought QUARTERMASTER CATALOG BY LOGGING ONTO THE 10TH WEBSITE: tip was the precursor to today’s poles. hats home as a precious souvenir. www.10thmtndivassoc.org The baptism of fire of the Alpini oc- There is no question that the men of curred on March 1, 1896, at Adua (Er- the 10th and the Alpini have many things itrea, Africa), when 16,000 Alpini were in common and share a special cama- attacked by 120,000 Abyssinians. The raderie. Sempre Avanti! (Always For- most important feats by the Alpini took ward!) men of the 10th and Alpini. place during WWI (1914-18). K1 10TH AUTO Q3 10TH LOGO I7 NAVY TEE I15 BASEBALL Even the Americans, who were fight- Gianfranco Dal Santo, an Italian TAG, $8 BELT, $15 SHIRT, $15 CAP, $18 ing on the French front, came to learn physician, met unexpectedly with veterans about the heroic exploits of the Alpini on of the 10th while skiing in Vail, CO. Since Send orders to: the alpine glaciers, including Ortles, Quartermaster, 112 Maple Avenue, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 he was a member of the Italian resistance E-mail: [email protected], Phone # 610.667.2911 Cevedale and Adamello. Their courage movement during WWII on the other side Orders should include catalog item number, quantity of items desired (include size if applicable), and endurance during four long years of of the Gothic Line, they found out they where to ship the items, your phone number and payment (check made out to 10th Mtn Quartermaster battles at high elevations have become a shared many memories and experiences or credit card information). Include P+H charge of $7 for orders up to $20, $10 for orders of $20 to $50, $15 for orders of $50.01 to $100, $20 for orders over $100 and $25 for orders over $200. legend. from those days. It was, as Gianfranco Recently, while climbing in those same says: “Love at first sight.” PAGE 8 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2 EARLIER DIVISION COMMANDER SAID TO HAVE FIT “LIKE A WELL-WORN AND WELL-LOVED GLOVE” Tom Brooks (85-G) When Major General George Price and was promoted to Colonel on Aug. 18, Hays was assigned to command the 10th 1940, and Brigadier General on Aug. 1, Mountain Division, he was told that there 1942. was ill feeling and discontent within the In 1941, he was assigned to the War Division and too many men in the guard Plans Division of the General Staff. A re- house. On Nov. 23, 1944, he arrived at port issued in the Fall of 1941 recom- Camp Swift determined to improve mended that the country should prepare morale. He ordered, for example, that for a war on two fronts, construct cargo “Mountain” would bridge the Tenth’s ships, increase the Air force and create crossed-swords shoulder patch, a patch 100 divisions, of which 20 percent should the men would come to wear with pride. be armored. Hays assembled all the officers and In Aug., 1942, Hays was assigned to non-coms in the field house, as he said, the Field Artillery, 2nd Inf Div. On a spe- “To give them a chance to look over their cial assignment in January, 1944, he ac- new commander.” As he looked at them, companied Maj Gen Walter M. Robertson he thought what a fine looking body of to observe the campaign in Italy. While at men they were. He told them “We are go- Casino, he was asked to take temporary ing to have good times as well as bad command of the 34th Div Arty. He did so, times in combat, as long as we accom- firing a heavy artillery preparation, but plish our missions...” the attack bogged down. Gen. Hays was a thorough-going pro- Hays returned to his old outfit in time fessional. He was born on Sept. 27, 1892, to participate in the Normandy invasion. in Chefoo, China, to Presbyterian mis- On D-Day plus 1, “We waded through the sionary parents. While a Junior at Okla- water up to our armpits.” Hays spent his homa A&M, he was accepted in the first first night ashore in an empty farmhouse Officers Training Corps at Fort Rucker, where “We started a fire in the fireplace AL. After basic training, cadets could and hung up our wet clothes to dry.” choose their branch of service. Hays Hays’ unit advanced inland and ran up Veterans and Descendants leaving memorial ceremony stopped for a photo wanted the infantry but after a 12-mile against the German 2nd Parachute Div in front of Hays Hall, 10th Mtn Div headquarters. march with full pack on a hot day in July, “…which gave us a good deal of trouble, he opted for the 10th Field Artillery, especially among the hedgerows.” After mately 400 prisoners of war.” 10th casual- 1978, at his home in Pinehurst, NC. He where he was commissioned as a 2nd breaking out of the Normandy Peninsula, ties were remarkably low —350. and his wife, Gladys had one son, one Lieutenant on Aug. 15, 1917. Hays participated in the drive to capture Hays continued thrusting through the daughter and nine grandchildren. Overseas in 1918, Hays served as a li- Brest. “After three weeks of fighting we did Apennines, across the Po Valley and into Gen. Truscott. called Hays’ appoint- aison officer, Second Battle of the Marne, so, capturing 35,000 prisoners.” But the the Italian Alps. ment to the command of the 10th “A for- maintaining contact between artillery and port was so badly damaged that the Allies After the war, he served as Deputy tuitous turn of fortune because Hays, one infantry units. Seven horses were shot shifted to Antwerp. Hays spent 163 consec- High Commissioner, Germany, and as of the ablest battle leaders I ever knew, fit- from under him; a thigh wound put him in utive days in combat before he was ordered Commander, U. S. Army. He retired in ted the Division like a well-worn and the hospital. He received the Medal of to take command of the 10th Mtn Div. 1953. George Price Hays died on Sept. 7, well-loved glove.” Honor. Returned to battle in the Argonne Once the 10th was in Italy, Hays was Forest, he earned a Silver Star. told by Lt Gen Lucian Truscott, Jr., Com- Immediately after the war, he was sta- mander of Fifth Army, that the 10th was to tioned in London wrapping up A. E. F. take Mount Belvedere, then move north (American Expeditionary Force) affairs. along the high ground west of the Val There he met and married his wife. Back d’Reno. Hays decided the 86th Regiment in the States in 1919, he attended various the night of Feb.18 would take Riva military courses, and did four years Ridge, where the Germans observed the ROTC duty at Cornell University. In forward slope of Belvedere, then the 85th 1930, he was attached to the 24th Field and 86th would take the Belvedere massif. Artillery in the Philippines, where for the As Hays informed his troops, “You over- “first time we could afford household ser- ran and defeated elements of eight differ- vants.” He attended the Army War College ent enemy battalions ... captured approxi- BUDDY HUNTER (Continued from Page 3) ican Cemetery in Florence. There is a discrepancy in the date of his death and exactly how he died. If anyone has information that would help resolve these issues, it would be appreciated. Please contact: Charles C. Chouinard, 4612 E. Bay Shore Circle, F-3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235. Thank you for any assistance you can give us in this regard. Charles C. Chouinard, CFE Tents and chairs were provided so reunion-goers could enjoy the Mountain- [email protected]; #760.641.5376 (c); #920.743.9395 (fax) fest Salute to the Nation in style and comfort. To the Editor: I am searching for any family members of Joseph Naylor (87-K). My father would like to send them a photo. I also have a question: My father, Cruz Rios (87-K), remem- bers going to an opera house and seeing “The Barber of Seville” while in Italy in 1945. VISIT THE 10TH WEBSITE But he does not remember where the opera house was located. Does anyone recall what city it may have been? I can be contacted at: Val Rios, 6816 S Maple Ave., Fresno, CA, www.10thmtndivassoc.org 93725; #559.269.7788; [email protected]. VOLUME 12 2010 NUMBER 2 WHAT A 10TH MTN. DESCENDANT SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION LEGACY Patricia Finn Thornton (Desc 85 A, L) One hears and reads of the various or- To meet the Army’s requirements to ganizations connected to the 10th Moun- train large numbers of replacements, the tain legacy; however, a clear understand- 10th Infantry Division was reactivated as a ing of each organization and their connec- training division on July 1, 1948, at Fort tion to each other often eludes most 10th Riley, KS. Minus the “Mountain” tab, the Mountain descendants. While many de- Division had the mission of processing and scendants may know some of the history training new soldiers for service with other of the WWII 10th Mountain Division as it Army units; 123,000 men completed basic pertains to their own 10th Mountain sol- training during the period 1948-1953. diers, most descendants really do not have In Jan., 1954, the Department of Army a complete picture of the Division from announced that the 10th Division would its activation in 1941 through its various become a combat infantry division and be deactivations and reactivations up to cur- sent to Europe under a new rotation poli- rent time. In addition, descendants are cy. Headquarters was located in aware of organizations like the “Founda- Wuerzburg, Germany. On June 14, 1958, tion,” “Association” and “Descendants, the 10th was sent to Fort Benning, GA, Inc,” but how many understand the con- and deactivated. ception, functions and connections 10th Mountain Division (Light In- Participants at the farewell banquet dug deep to contribute to a raffle, raising among these three organizations? fantry) - 1985 – Present Day $660 for the Wounded Warrior Fund. Most-excited winner was Alan Hafer The following article should be the first Reactivated in 1985, the Division has (D, 87-G), who had his gleaming new football helmet autographed by step in understanding the vision acted upon seen numerous deployments since its reac- George H. Rosenfield (85-E) and others. by our veterans in the years following World tivation that February. Elements participat- War II. Much of the information is edited ed in Hurricane Andrew disaster relief in and “borrowed (with permission)” from South Florida, Operation Restore Hope in John Engle’s (87-L, 86-G) A Brief History Somalia, Operation Uphold Democracy in of the National Association of the 10th Haiti, Operation Joint Force in Bosnia and Mountain Division, Inc, which can be found Task Force Eagle in Kosovo. Additionally, in the introductory pages of the 2007 Roster. since 2001, the Division and its combat This information is also posted on the De- brigades have seen numerous deployments scendant Google page http://groups.google in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in .com/group/10-mtn-descendants and, hope- Iraq and Operation Enduring Freedom in fully, will be the beginning of shared discus- Afghanistan. Currently there is a Brigade sion. Sempre Avanti! Combat Team (BCT) deployed to Iraq; World War II 10th Mountain Division a BCT deployed to Afghanistan with the – 1941 to 1945 Division Headquarters; and the Aviation Activated as a single battalion in Nov., Brigade deployed to Afghanistan in the Fall 1941, on Washington’s Mt Rainier, the of 2009. The sun never sets on the 10th 10th Mtn Div was created in 1943 in Mountain Division, the most deployed divi- Leadville, CO, with three regiments, ar- sion in the US Army. tillery and support companies. Attracting Organizations created by veterans of a large number of volunteer skiers, the WWII 10th Mountain Division climbers and other types of outdoor men, they trained at Camp Hale, CO, and The Tenth Mountain Division Camp Swift, TX. During the closing days Foundation, Inc. of 1944, the Division embarked for Italy, In 1958, veterans established the Tenth Displays at Sackets Harbor battlefield complex engross father & son where they fought in some of the toughest Mountain Division Foundation as a non- Roger (left) & Richard Koeck (85-A). “I first came to a reunion in 1989 terrain in that country. From 1941 to its profit, tax-exempt Colorado corporation at French Lick,” Richard said, “and now there’s just one other man deactivation on November 30, 1945, qualified under 501(c) (3) of the Internal from the same unit here. So it’s good I went to others. We had a 31,500 men passed through the ranks of Revenue Code. Currently, the Foundation fine, close group, and it’s wonderful that they thought of the the 10th Mountain Division. administers financial support for a variety descendants to take the Association over after this.” 10th Infantry Division 1948-1958 (Continued on Descendant Page 4) PAGE 2 DESCENDANT BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Val Rios (Desc. 87-K) THEY WERE YOUNG ONCE This afternoon I met my mother and father at the Veterans Hospital. Dad has Meniere’s Disease and has been having problems with dizziness. Since dad is ex- The Descendant Blizzard is edited by Bryan Pullen. Descendants: News, stories, announce- tremely hard of hearing making it extremely difficult to communicate, I wanted ments, letters, photos etc. are most welcome — this is your Blizzard! Contact Bryan Pullen at to be there as a support and to ask the doctor a few questions myself. The exam 708 S. 6th Street, Davis OK 73030 or email: [email protected]. went well and the lab results were okay. Hopefully next week dad will get some help with his problem with dizziness when he sees the ear doctor. 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION DESCENDANTS, INC. I’ve been to the VA hospital before but this time I looked around more care- OFFICERS, BOARD OF DIRECTORS fully. It was a busy place and there were lots of patients. Most were men but I did (* denotes Executive Committee) see a few women and it looked like they ranged in age from twenty to ninety- Arizona Chapter (’11) Midwest Chapter (’09) Sierra Nevada Chapter (’07) something. Some walked on their own, some were in wheelchairs and some were Mary Broughton Patricia LaRocca *Val Rios on stretchers. Some appeared very healthy while others looked feeble and weak. P.O. Box 25964 1151 Parkside Court 6816 S. Maple Prescott Valley, AZ 86312 Carol Stream, IL 60188 Fresno, CA 93725 Most had all their limbs but a few were missing a leg or an arm. Some were talk- 928.775.2259 630.221.0989 559.834.6230 ing and laughing with those around them while others seemed to have a distant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] or preoccupied facial expression. Many wore caps that identified their military Father: Martin Bockelmann (126- Father: Richard D. Soutar (616-FA- Father: Cruz F. Rios, Jr. (87-K) ENG-A) HQ) Southeast Chapter (’10) branch or unit; Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard. White, Black, His- The Rev. Larry Fields panic, Asian, Filipino; all were represented. Armadillo & Roadrunner Chapter (’11) Mt. Rainier Chapter (’09) David Thompson 6300 Deane Hill Drive I looked on the walls and there were many pictures of various service men and Phebe Davol Knoxville, TN 37919 5675 West FM 487 7712 39th Avenue, SW 865.588.3968 (H) women. Dad took me to see the photo of his friend, Rudy Hernandez, who was Florence, TX 76527 Seattle, WA 98136 [email protected] awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Korean War. There were pho- 254.793.3419 206.932.4148 Father: Capt. Marion H. Fields (85- [email protected] [email protected] HQ) tos and stories of other local veterans but I didn’t have time to look at all of them. Father: Donald B. Davol (86-L, 86-A) Father: Hans Thompson (85-K) Southern California Chapter (’10) I also wish I had more time to look at all the model planes and ships from the Big Sky (’11) New England Chapter (’09) Mary Roddick Ghan WW II era that were on display in one of the rooms. Jerry Reed Sue Hagerman, Membership 25642 La Cima One sign did catch my attention. It read, “The price of freedom is visible here.” 160 Reeds Lane P.O. Box 60 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Columbia Falls, MT 59912 Enfield Center, NH 03749 949.364.0159 So as I walked my father to the car I looked carefully into the eyes of everyone I 406.892.5359 603.632.5337 (H); 603.252.7196 (C) [email protected] passed and wondered, “What was their story of service? Did they serve in WWII, in [email protected] [email protected] Father: Robert S. Roddick, Jr. (85-K) Korea, Vietnam, Kosovo, Iraq, or Afghanistan? Did they see combat and witness Father: Stan Walsh (10 Med -B) Father: William A. Hagerman (86- Upper Peninsula Chapter (’10) Delaware River Valley Chapter (’11) Svc) Sandi Engstrom firsthand all the horror of war?” While I could not know the answer to these ques- Berkley D. Ellis North Central Chapter (’09) 527 Vine St. tions, there is one thing that I do know for sure. They were young once and served 930 N. Evans Street Nikki Fahey Ishpeming, MI 49849 their country with honor. And for this I am forever thankful! Pottstown, PA 19464 3601 Phillips Parkway 215 949.364.0159 610.327.8107 St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Upstate New York Chapter (’10) [email protected] 952.594.1560 (H) Jill Hamlin Father: Dr. Berkley Ellis (86-L) [email protected] 167 Hotel Rd Ft. Drum Chapter Grandfather: Myron E. Fahey (604- Remsen, NY 13438 Vacant FA-HQ) 315.831.5506 (H); 351.725.2270 (C) Utah Chapter (’07) Lower Michigan Chapter (’11) Northwest Chapter (’09) Marney Roddick Ron Sawdey Robert (Bob) Lafean 2016 Emerson Ave. 714 Lakeview Ave. P.O. Box 7661 Salem, OR 97303 Salt Lake City, UT 84108 Port Huron, MI 801.582.2820 (H) 810.987.1795 503.371.3326 (H) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Father: James J. Sawdey (87-B) Father: Robert S. Roddick (85-K) Metropolitan New York Chapter (’11) Washington DC Chapter (’07) Donald Ruso Perkins, Treasurer Rocky Mountain Chapter (’09) Pamela Pikla, (Membership Chair) 35-11 85th Street, Apt. 9H Kate Raabe 3707 Red Grove Rd. Jackson Heights, NY 11372-5505 465 Josephine Street Baltimore, MD 21220 718.651.2995 (H), 212.972.3800 (W) Denver, CO 80206 410.335.2525 [email protected] 303.534.0273 [email protected] Father: Ruso H. Perkins (87-I) [email protected] Father: Hassell G. Vass (10-AT-A) COMMITTEES Only a few skiers related to 10th Mtn Veterans and Descendants were involved AT-LARGE BOARD MEMBERS 303-423-2514 443.570.9482 (C) [email protected] [email protected] this year, but the annual Biathlon drew large numbers and organizers hope for President (‘11) Father: Marvin E. Taylor (126-D Uncle: Stuart Abbott (86-L) Val Rios (see Sierra Nevada Chapter) ENG) greater attendance –after all, look at what a good time they’re having! Vice President Descendant “Blizzard” Editor ORAL HISTORY PROJECT Steve Coffey Bryan Pullen Myrna Hampton 1636 York Mills La. 708 South 6th Sierra Nevada Chapter BIATHLON A SUCCESS THIS YEAR Reston, VA 20194 Davis, OK 73030 703.471.4370 (H); 703.902.4005 (W) 580.369.5515 4803 Monterey St. Val Rios (Desc 87-K) [email protected] [email protected] Carmel, CA 93923 Father: Albert Coffey Jr. (*7-F) Grandfather: Harold Sutton (86-M) [email protected] The annual 10th Mtn Div Biathlon, sponsored by the Sierra Nevada Chapter and Auburn Past President (’09) VP, Chapter Coordinator (’10) Father: Lt. Col. Henry J. Hampton, Ski Club, was held Sunday, March 21. This year the venue was changed from Boreal Ridge Patricia Finn Thornton (web page) Larry Wilson 86-HQ to Northstar at Tahoe. It took a little more time getting to the starting point but the change in 112 Maple Avenue PO Box 3 Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 Columbia Falls, MT 59912 GOLD STAR 10TH MTN. DIV venue seemed to be successful as there were more participants this year. 610.667.2911 (H); 610.608.5948 (C) 406.892.5951 DESC CHAIRPERSON The staff at Northstar noted that the several biathlon training weekends prior to the event Father: Capt. Frederick Finn [email protected] Norman Burkey (85-A & L) Father: Ross Wilson, 87-HQ-1 were completely filled with participants taking a keen interest in the Biathlon event itself. 308 Colgate Dr. The hope is that there will be additional training weekends next year resulting in a greater Secretary (’10) Treasurer Forest Hill, MD 21050 Sharon E. Ahrens Don Perkins (Desc, 87-I) th 410.638.8970 participation in the event. Unfortunately there were no 10 veterans able to attend the event 34 Johnny Cake Lane 3511 85th St., Apt. 9H th New Hartford, CT 06057 Jackson Heights, NY 11372-5505 [email protected] and my brother, Conrad, was the sole 10 descendant participant. Conrad considered his Father: Rodman C. Ahrens (85-C) [email protected] Father: Norman L. Burkey, 85-C participation a complete success as this year he did not finish last! Quartermaster Resource, Denver Library (’11) At the conclusion of the event I gave a brief history of the 10th Mtn Div, and then repre- Denise Taylor (’08) Abbie Kealy ON BELAY CHAIRPERSON 4075 Depew Street 5316 Glen Falls Rd. Pamela Pikla (see Washington, DC sented the Sierra Nevada Chapter in awarding the medals. This is quite a fun event to attend Wheat Ridge, CO 80212 Reistertown, MD 21136 Chapter) and we hope to see more 10th family members participate or attend the Biathlon next year. 2010 NUMBER 2 DESCENDANT BLIZZARD PAGE 3

ARMADILLO Phebe Davol (Desc 86-L, HQ) Becky Joyce, our Southeastern Region representative and coordinator, is doing a fabulous job arranging luncheons in the Houston area for our Veterans, Widows, and Descendants. The next luncheon will be held in Houston on Aug. 6, 2010. Theme is “How I be- came a 10th Mountain Division soldier.” We honor all the Veterans and current 10th Mtn Div (LI) soldiers and other branches for their past and current service to our great country. We especially enjoy the stories told by our beloved 10th veterans. As an ex- ample, please read the other article for the Armadillo Chapter in the main section of the Rocky Mountain Chapter members Kate Raabe and Max Raabe, daughter Blizzard. and grandson of 10th veteran Max Raabe (86-MED-HQ), laid one of the As mentioned in previous articles, the Chapter is geographically challenged. Dur- wreaths at the ceremony. ing our Mount Belvedere/Riva Ridge weekend in 2008, we received volunteers from various sections of the Chapter to coordinate lunches, visits to Veterans who do not travel and visitations to 10th soldiers recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center in San ROCKY MOUNTAIN Antonio. There have been a few 10th soldiers taken there, and thankfully, Jack Davis Kate Raabe (86-MED-HQ) (10-RECON, 87-I) has taken quilts to some of them. Jeannie Geuras and Becky Joyce have organized several luncheons and have also The Memorial Day ceremony at the top of Tennessee Pass was well attended and the provided much appreciated support to the Chapter in planning the annual weekend weather was beautiful. event which typically occurs in February to coincide with the siege on Mount I took a picture looking across the speaker’s podium to the evergreens in the close Belvedere/Riva Ridge. The President appreciates all the support and assistance she re- background, with perfectly blue sky above and snow capped mountains in the distance. ceives from both Descendants and Veterans in this as well as other Chapters, Rocky It was a fitting backdrop for thinking about our 10th Mountain soldiers who died in Mountain in particular. Italy making the world a safer and better place for us. I hope that we can demonstrate our appreciation and respect for them, and other 10th vets who have died since, by also doing our part, every day, to make this a safer and better place to live. MIDWEST There were a number of vets, as well as second- and third-generation 10th descen- Patty LaRocca (Desc 616-HQ) dants who participated in the ceremony, making it a multi-generation event that seems to become more meaningful each year, even as the number of older vets able to attend The Midwest Chapter descendants are starting to plan this year’s Reunion. diminishes. Wreath-laying assignments were given to all three generations, in order to It will be held Sept. 2-6 at the Carol Stream Holiday Inn. We voted at the last re- cover the 28 wreaths representing various 10th related organizations, chapters and oth- union to use the same hotel again for this year’s event. We picked Labor Day weekend ers wanting to recognize the 10th Mtn Div. in hopes of getting more descendants to attend. I will be having a get-together at my As is tradition, the high school band from Leadville played before and during the house to go over some of the details and to talk about next year’s reunion. ceremony. While we often have a speaker and/or color guard from Ft. Drum, because This year the theme is a Country-Western night. We’re hoping to see our Veterans of deployments and other issues they were unable to participate this year. Instead, our dressed up in some of their favorite western gear, and we’d like to see a few cowboy speaker was Representative Mike Coffman, from Colorado’s 6th Congressional Dis- hats, too. We will be having a chuck wagon dinner and then playing some cards in the trict. He has a distinguished military career himself, and said he was honored to have Saloon located in the hospitality room (please leave your guns at home for this event). the opportunity to participate. Color guard duties were ably handled by the 10th We are also planning a cookout at the home of our past president Jake Pollack (85- Mountain Living History Group. HQ-2). We will grill some burgers and brats and just have an old-fashioned Labor Day The weather can sometimes be dicey, but this year we were lucky. It was a little picnic. There will be watermelon (possibly even a seed-spitting contest). Yard games windy, but sunny the whole time, and a and croquet will also be provided. temperature in the 60s. (Last year we had If you haven’t attended one of our reunions, now’s your chance. We all have a great sun, rain, hail and snow, all within the time and there’s always something planned to do. one-hour span of the ceremony.) We were pleased to have Steve Coffey (Desc, 87-F) travel from the East Coast to join us again this year. He is an officer of both the Na- tional Association and 10th Mtn Div De- scendants. I hope you will consider join- ing us next year, whether you live in Col- Ft Drum Heritage Center orado or elsewhere around the country. display of rifles You will be reading this edition of the Blizzard in early August, and still have attracts National time to join us for a 10th weekend in Reunion attendees Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Aug. 20- Michael Capiello & 22. The hotel is actually giving us a dis- grandfather counted rate for two days before and two Earl Norem (85-L). days after as well. If you have questions or want more information, contact Nancy Flint Whitlock (605 FA-A), member of Kramer at 970.879.2739 or the 10th Mtn Div Foundation board [email protected]. She is a local and chief organizer and master of Steamboat 10th descendant in charge of ceremonies for the Memorial Day planning the event. Hope to see you ceremony at Tennessee Pass. there! PAGE 4 DESCENDANT BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2 WHAT A 10TH MTN. DESCENDANT SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION LEGACY (Continued from Descendants Page 1) ic soldier’s service can be researched of good works and programs related to its though this database at no charge. mission to honor and perpetuate the lega- The Tenth Mountain Foundation is a cy of the WWII 10th Mtn Div, the memo- separate organization from the National ry of the soldiers who served with it, and Association and relies solely on donations the ideals for which they lived and died. to continue its good works. To make a do- Originating as the War Memorial nation or to find more information on the Foundation in 1957, the purpose was to Foundation and its projects, please visit: raise money for a Monument at Tennessee http://www.10thmtndivassoc.org/founda- Pass in Colorado for memorializing the tion.html or Tenth Mountain Division 10th Mountain soldiers who gave their Foundation, Inc., 133 South Van Gordon lives for our country in WWII. Complet- Street, Suite 200, Lakewood, CO 8022. ing the project with a surplus in funds led Telephone: (303) 756-8486; Fax: 303- to a change in the identity of the War 987-9489; E-mail: [email protected] Memorial Foundation to the Tenth Moun- tain Division Foundation, Inc. In 1966, National Association of the 10th the Foundation established a College As- Mountain Division sistance Scholarship Fund, initially de- In the closing days of WWII, the Bliz- signed to provide financial aid to needy zard editorial staff drafted and published children of WWII 10th soldiers; however, preliminary bylaws for a postwar “alumni in 2010 the Foundation Board extended association” in the June 24, 1945, issue. assistance to direct and legally adopted Within a year of the war’s end, regional descendants of 10th Mtn Div WWII sol- clusters sprang up across the country. In Colorado in Aug, 1971, to foster friend- ties to bring this vision into focus was attor- diers, subject to the availability of funds 1946, Eastern veterans packed into a high ship, assist needy members, promote win- ney Martha Hays, granddaughter of Major Carrying out their mission each school auditorium on East 42nd St. in ter sports and encourage mountain and General George P. Hays and daughter of Memorial Day, the Foundation provides New York City and registered in the State winter warfare training within the Armed Lieutenant George J. Hays (87-B). As a re- funds for placement of flowers at each of of New York as the 10th Mountain Divi- Forces of the United States. The Associa- sult, the 10th Mountain Division Descen- the 326 graves of 10th Mountain soldiers sion Alumni Association. This was the tion also published the Blizzard newslet- dants, Inc., was officially acknowledged at who remain interred in the Florence forerunner of the National Association of ter, supported the Tenth Mountain Foun- the 1998 Fort Drum Reunion in Watertown, American Military Cemetery in Italy. The the 10th Mountain Division, Inc., estab- dation, coordinated activities among the NY. They held their first Board of Directors Foundation also arranges for wreaths or lished 25 years later in 1971. Chapters that existed at that time, encour- Meeting in Denver in 1999. Presently the garlands at 10th Memorials in the North- Acting independently of the New York aged the development of new Chapters Descendant Board of Directors consists of ern Apennine hill towns. group, 2,000 miles to the west, Colorado and organized National Reunions and 21 Descendant Chapter Directors, plus 5 formed an outpost, later to be known as the Return-to-Italy trips. At-Large Directors. 10th Mtn Div Resource Center Rocky Mountain Chapter. It had its own The WWII veterans have turned lead- Because 10th Descendants, Inc., is an Located in the Denver Public Library officers and dues, as well as its own pur- ership of the National Association over to Auxiliary of the National Association, de- and the Colorado Historical Society, it is a pose, which was the sharing of camaraderie the 10th Mtn Div (Light Infantry) veter- scendants can serve as Presidents of Na- vast repository of 10th memorabilia with and taking pleasure in the surrounding ans so that current 10th soldiers serving tional Association Chapters, and thus en- more than 1,000 individual preserved col- mountains in which these veterans had their country will carry on the legacy of sure their continuation. Currently nine lections of several thousand photographs, trained and now lived. As foreseen, during the Division. Veterans of the Fort Drum- descendants serve as Presidents of the lo- records, documents, maps and personal this same period in other parts of the coun- based Division in Northern New York will cal Chapters, coordinating activities with- papers as well as three-dimensional arti- try —Washington D.C. (1955), Portland, continue the National Association as a in their chapters. In addition, descendants facts, all of which 10th Mountain veter- OR (1960), and New England (1967)— successful operation. Additional infor- hold positions on the Executive Commit- ans and their families have donated. One many veterans began to gather informally mation concerning the National Associa- tee of the National Association, as well as extremely valuable resource housed in the to share the common background of their tion, Chapters and Projects is on the web- the Executive Committee and Board of Resource Room is a unique database, wartime episodes. The growth of these re- site: www.10thmtndivassoc.org. Directors of the Tenth Mountain Founda- completed by John Imbrie (85-C) and his gional groups has resulted in the 21 Chap- tion. In 2009, 10th Descendants, Inc., or- committee, which lists some 33,000 sol- ters that presently exist. 10th Mountain Division ganized and ran the 2009 Sempre Italia - diers who served with the Tenth from The National Association of the 10th Descendants, Inc – 1998 Return to Italy Trip. Nov, 1941-Nov, 1945. History of a specif- Mountain Division, Inc. was formed in From the very beginning of the National Besides supporting undertakings of re- Association and Tenth Foundation, veterans gional Chapters, the National Associa- of the WWII 10th Mtn Div included their tion, and the Tenth Mountain Foundation, children in functions, meetings, return trips descendants have embarked on meaning- to Italy and National Reunions, and this ful projects of their own. Five main areas formed the basis for descendant interest. In are: 1) Support: On Belay Project; (2) 1987, a movement, Spirit of the Tenth, Preserving History: Oral History Project; called for the involvement of descendants (3) Education: Descendant Essay within the National Association. Five years Contest; (4) Support: 10th Mtn Div De- later, finding that many descendants wanted scendant Scholarships; and (5) Support: to become members of the National Associ- Gold Star Project. ation, they reintroduced a new effort to en- Descendants are encouraged to become courage descendant membership; however, dues-paying members of 10th Mtn Descen- an IRS regulation severely limited inclusion dants, Inc., to ensure the preservation of the of descendants in the National Association. legacy of the 10th and to provide support To overcome that regulation, in 1997 the for veterans, their wives and widows of the National Association organized an ex- National Association. For more informa- ploratory committee of veterans to work tion on Descendants, their mission and with the descendants in the formation of a projects, visit: http://groups.google.com/ 501(C) “Auxiliary” to the National Associ- group/10-mtn-descendants, as well as ation. Vigorously spearheading the legali- http://10thmtndivdesc.org. 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 9

Above: briefing at The Commons restaurant complex began the Ft. Drum day. LTC Mike Thomas, H&H Bn, standing left, gave an introduction to current Division operations, while Coordinator Gil Pearsall (Ret., 10th Mtn Div LI) kept the group moving through a full day.

Right: Creative lobby of Heritage Center hangs over Jay (85-C) and Minna Charles and others. ERNIE PYLE MUSEUM RUNS AFOUL OF ECONOMY Mike Harden, Retired Columnist, “Cincinnati Enquirer,” Sunday, May 30, 2010 The crumpled body of the little guy in jerks before the war.” the ditch by the side of the trail would Before they put Pyle in the ground on have looked - from a distance - like any of the South Pacific island of Ie Shima, sol- the other soldiers the Army’s 77th Infantry diers found in his pocket the notes he had Division had been burying half a world made for a column exposing the soul- away from home. killing struggle he had chronicled. “Dead To the Japanese sniper who caught him men by mass production, in one country with a clean shot in the left temple, he was after another, month after month and year just another enemy soldier. But the G.I.s after year,” he had written. “Dead men in who retrieved his body, and fashioned a winter and dead men in summer; dead casket for him from rough lumber, knew men in such familiar promiscuity that better. they become monotonous.” War correspondent Ernie Pyle never What Ernie Pyle didn’t know was that made it back from the front lines to the he was writing not only about the G.I.s in front porch of the farm in Dana, Ind., World War II but also about the soldiers of where he once had looked after chickens every war we have fought since. in the company of his dog Shep and lay If you are wondering why, this Memor- under the canopy of the huge maple trees ial Day weekend, I am writing about in his front yard dreaming of whatever Ernie, it is because the museum and birth- Midwestern farm boys dreamed when place honoring his life and work is now they weren’t stacking the barn with new- padlocked. Indiana says it can’t afford the mown hay. $6,000 a year it costs (after revenues are Condolences over Pyle’s death were is- deducted) to operate the site in Dana. sued from the White House, but all of the A group of farmers and shopkeepers conjured sympathy from Washington, from Ernie’s native soil is fighting to keep D.C., would have meant less to him than the place open. One of them told me, the lone whispered prayer of one of the “Ernie painted dozens of pictures of war, grunts he most often wrote about. but I can’t describe even one of them to a “Ernie wrote about the men in the fox- stranger without choking up.” holes,” Pyle’s Indiana neighbor Evelyn I’ve got a little money in my pocket Hobson said Friday. “He didn’t write this Sunday morning that I could spend on Boyhood home of WWII correspondent Ernie Pyle. The grounds include about the generals or the pins on the big flowers to place at the grave of a veteran, Quonset huts with extensive memorabilia, but it won’t be open to the campaign map. He wrote about the foot but I’m thinking about those Indiana farm public any more unless there’s some immediate financial help. soldiers, and he wrote about them from folks who are trying to keep Ernie’s mem- the foxholes he shared with them. He ory alive. If you’ve got a buck you can Studs Terkel, writing the foreword for a poorest in memory.” wanted to tell America where these 18- spare, please send it to The Friends of book of Pyle’s wartime correspondence, Retired columnist Mike Harden writes and 19-year-old kids had come from - Ernie Pyle, P.O. Box 338, Dana, Ind. said it best: “We may be the richest coun- Wednesday and Sunday Metro columns. where they had pumped gas or been soda 47847. try in material things and possibly the [email protected] PAGE 10 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2

NORTHWEST Frank Chuk (85-Med-2) On Sunday, March 21, a very enjoyable Italian spaghetti feast was hosted by Marney Roddick (Desc 85-K), President of Northwest Chapter 10th Mt Div Descendents, at her home on beautiful Croisan Creek Road in Salem, OR. In attendance were Jim Bray (87-K) & Lorraine Youngs, Frank Chuk (85-MED-2) & daughter Cindy Martin, grandsons Caleb, Peter Martin & Tyler Lindsey, granddaugh- ters Gabe Martin & Liz Lindsey, Bob Cornell (86-HQ-1), Warren Craig (86-HQ) & Anne, Bob Emerson (604-HQ) & Bobbie, Kam Glaser (10th Mtn Div LI) & Brenda, daughter Mikhayla, Mike Myers (HON) & Connie, Dick Updegraff (10-AT-A) & Anna Marie, Harvey Wieprecht (86-F) & Betty Anderson, Eugene Winters (87-C, G), Ben Yett (10th Recon, 85-G) & Bev, daughter Polly, son-in-law Bob & grandson Chris Youn- gren, Paul & Ann Zitylberger, son-in-law & daughter of Warren Elmer (10-HQ). Outstanding food and many new faces made for an excellent get-together, while Southern California Chapter members spent a day covering the grounds Marney’s son Sol and daughter Lena did living histories. of Rubel’s Castle in Glendora, and hope for a return visit to On March 31, CWO2 Devin Wickenhagen (10th Mtn Div LI), now serving with the see the extensive features. C/7-158th Aviation, Aero Medical Evacuation & Patient Transportation, of the Oregon National Guard, spoke. He gave those attending the monthly luncheon a most splendid informative and entertaining presentation of his last tour of duty in support of Opera- SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA tion Iraqi Freedom. His cultivation of a grass lawn was certainly unique. We are grate- Bruce Campbell (86-I, M) ful to have you back, Devin. Bill Hamilton (86-F) and Hazel Mary Harrison were married April 17 at the First A tour of Rubel’s Castle, Glendora, was hosted by Warren Asa (86-G) on April 10, United Methodist Church of Newberg, OR, to a overflow house. Reception followed 2010. Warren and I were the only vets in attendance, but I brought a couple of members ceremony., and many Chapter members were in attendance. of our Grindelwald Ski Club as well. In addition, Kathleen and John Jones joined us, On Saturday, May 1, Chapter president Jim Bray (87-K) led a group of 12 at the along with about 25 others —relatives, friends and neighbors of Warren’s. (Continued on next page) After spending over 20 years working in and around the premises, Warren is an ex- cellent guide throughout the castle. His knowledge of the background and history is well worth a two-hour visit to a unique and exciting Glendora landmark. At some future date we hope for more participation for another visit for our Chapter with, primarily, Descendants. This was my fourth trip, and I’d still be up for another, since it’s impossible to see and appreciate the unusual features in this structure. SOUTHEAST Jo Ann Shahan (Desc, 86-L) The business meeting of the Chapter was called to order April 17 by President Ed Van Romer ( 87-I) at Embassy Suites, Greenville, SC. Eleven veterans attending were Ed Van Romer, Wally Moore (86-H), Clarence “Dick” Hawkins (85-L), Paul Gunderman (605-MED) & Delores, Bill Weber (616- HQ) & Mary, George DeSalvio (85-E) & Gerd, George Baroff (86-HQ-3, K), Stan Young (86-F) & Barbara, Mogens Hallgren (85-C) & Joe Anne, Harry Coleman (86- B), and John Delony & Teddie. Also present were Bernice Detwiler, Jo Ann Shahan and Conness Gillespie. Secretary Cindy Partridge (86-A, W) was unable to attend and so Jo Ann Shahan filled the position. Harry Coleman reported that the Chapter supported the Greenville Upstate Chapter of Blue Star Mothers with $1,000. after our Spring meeting. Through the Adopt-a- Platoon program our money supplied a 10th Mountain Platoon with some much- appreciated wants and needs. Jane Davis will speak to our group at the Banquet about A calendar featuring members of the Upper Peninsula Chapter their efforts. was a surprise at a Spring meeting of the Michigan group. Dick Hawkins requested that veterans and family please give him directions about to whom memorial plaques should be sent. There has been difficulty in delivering UPPER PENINSULA some of these. Ed Van Romer has been contacted by a member of the Greenville post of the Nation- Walter R. Cook (10-HQ) al Ski Patrol. Russ Lindsey contacted him after seeing notice of our meeting. He and a At our Feb. 19, 2010, meeting, members were presented with calendars with 10th friend, Natalie Amick, a professional photographer and fellow skier, attended as guests. Mountain people from the Chapter featured each month. It was a very impressive and The Chapter spent $82. for a wreath to be placed at Tennessee Pass. appreciated surprise, prepared and presented by the John F. Koski family in memory of We are considering ways to remember our wounded in the hospitals. At the same John Koski, who was killed in action on April 15, 1945, at Mount della Spe. time, we note the loss of Carol Rae Zelina on April 24, 2010. She was a loyal support- Joe Perrault (126-D) and Gene Keskimaki (87-H, M) are on the sick list, and any er of husband Ray (605-A), Chapter member and former Blizzard editor, who died in cards or correspondence to them would be appreciated. December. Both are missed by family and 10th friends. Our Fall meeting will be in Escanaba, MI, at a date to be announced. Please note date change by the Embassy, to Oct. 15-17, 2010. 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 11

MT. RAINIER Dale Smith (10th MP) Thanks to efforts of program chairman Ed Gibson (M&CWTC), our programs con- tinue to be informative and interesting. For Feb. 9, Lynn Phillips showed skiing films that her father, Dan (86-F) made dur- ing training at various sites during WWII. She had the films transferred to a DVD, and while they weren’t up to today’s technical standards, they showed a bit of history that is unforgettable, especially to those who participated in it. Dan was a member of a detachment that was sent to the Columbia Ice Fields near Big Sky vets presented Linda Armstrong (center) and family with a 10th Banff in Alberta, Canada, in 1943 to test the performance of vehicles in rugged, icy Mountain Memorial Plaque in honor of her father, Frank Whitmoyer. From left, conditions. He showed the problems in controlling trucks, with many of their tests re- Barney Ilertsen, Ray Johnson, Linda, Joe Devlin and Orville Bjorge. sulting in accidents. This was the group the that tested the Snow Weasel manufactured by the Studebaker Company. The last scenes shown were from a team competition held at Roche Run at Aspen, BIG SKY CHAPTER CO. The team from the 10th was competing against a team assembled by Averill Harri- Suz Rittenhouse (Desc 87-HQ-2) man consisting of five men and five women. There were shots of the downhill compe- tition as well as jumping. Individuals could not be identified, but Karl Stingl (87-HQ- The Chapter had a great turnout for the 1) remembers that he competed in this contest. The Harriman team won, probably be- Belvedere Day lunch in Missoula, MT, on cause they were practicing on the site for days beforehand. Feb. 20, 2010. At our March meeting, Dan Fowler gave an excellent slide presentation on his 2003 Four veterans and their families at- expedition to Nepal and the Mt. Everest base camp. Dan first entered Nepal at Kath- tended, including Barney Ilertsen (616- mandu and showed some interesting temples and pictures of the people in the sur- FA-HQ), Joe (87-B) & Kay Devlin, rounding area. The whole trip took four weeks to complete. Orville Bjorge (86-C), and Ray (85-G) & Our April 11 meeting was held in the wardroom of the Seattle Yacht Club, a delight- Vickie Johnson and their daughter Don- ful room with an expansive view of Portage Bay and the many yachts that are moored na., JoAnne Manchester (87-K), Shirley there. The Fireside Room that we usually occupy was being prepared for an event to Marshall (86-F), Jim Walsh (Desc 10- celebrate and display of the America’s Cup by Larry Ellison later in the day. Some of MED-B) & Sharon Zirschky, Larry Wil- those attending our meeting stayed to see the cup. Also, Ann Bray, Royce Ward’s (10th son (Desc 87-HQ-1), and Frank Whit- INF) daughter, was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. moyer’s (87-HQ-1) daughter Linda Arm- Our speaker was Morton Wood, whose story on how he came to develop the facility strong & granddaughters Christina Hoyt at Camp Denali near Mt. McKinley is interesting and unusual. Woody’s wife taught & Carolyn Rigg & husband Donato. him to fly, and they flew their plane to Alaska, where Woody got a job with the Nation- Jerry Reed, past Chapter president, presented Linda Armstrong and family a al Park Service. He was quite impressed by the recreational potential of the area around th Mt. McKinley, and observed how difficult it was for people to get there. The best way 10 Mountain Memorial Plaque in honor to get there was by railroad, and Railroad Hotel was 90 miles from Mt. McKinley. He of her father, Frank Whitmoyer. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship and thought why not build a simple place with housekeeping facilities for people who th wanted to stay in the park. On a hiking trip they came upon Wonder Lake and decided tales that make the 10 such a special it was a great location for their camp. At the time, 1952, anyone could homestead up to group! 80 acres, and get the land for free, so they did just that. A road to Mt. McKinley was fi- Jim Walsh also attended the Belvedere What if they gave a party, and…? nally constructed in the 1970’s. Day lunch in Billings, MT, on Feb. 21, Big Sky Chapter President Suz Rit- On May 11 we met at the Inn at Gig Harbor, WA, and it was a delightful event, due which had a pretty good turnout. Three tenhouse was ready with a cake to in no small part to our visitors from the Northwest Chapter led by President Jim Bray vets were able to go: Bob (87-B) & celebrate Mount Belvedere day, but (87-K). Dee Molenaar (M&CWTC) introduced the program, which was a DVD of the Eleanor Coop with daughter Nancy, Tom when no 10th vets showed up, she 1938 exploratory expedition and the 1953 effort led by Dr Charles Huston, to summit & Ginny Helmer and Chuck (85-HQ-3d shared it with two appreciative Na- K-2, the second highest mountain on earth after Mt. Everest. Dee was a member of the BN) & Ann Hauptman. Also in atten- tional Guardsmen instead. second expedition, and took his watercolors along to record scenes from the trip, which dance were Sharon Zirkosky, Cora Gra- he displayed at our meeting. Although they failed to summit K-2, this climb is consid- ham (85-SERV) & her grandchildren. ered a trailblazing effort. Suz Rittenhouse (Desc 87-HQ-2), Chapter President, held the first Belvedere Day luncheon in Boise, ID, with just Suz and her husband in attendance! Two Idaho Na- NORTHWEST tional Guard members eating lunch at a nearby table were happy recipients of the (Continued from previous page) Belvedere Day cake that Suz brought. So Suz considered it a successful celebration! 10th Mtn Memorial Grove in policing trash and planting a Douglas Fir in remembrance of Garrett Gast (86-HQ-1). This brings the number of trees in the Grove to 70. The next MONUMENT DEDICATED TO MOH RECIPIENT gatherings will be July 17 and Oct. 30, on Hwy 26, mile marker 27, just east of the (Continued from Page 13) strength to the full height of that Banks exit, 9:00 a.m. The Grove will be dedicated as an official Heritage location Oct. times in the face of withering RPG and Gawardesh mountain and found the pres- 2. This promises to be a World Class event. rapid gun fire to recover a wounded sol- ence of GOD. The annual Timberline get-together with the Northwest Chapter will be Aug. 18 at dier 10 meters to his front, underscores “Our Nation’s Medal of Honor Recipi- the beautiful Multnomah Falls State Park, historical dining room, on I-84 South of the extraordinary courage, bravery, and ent, SFC Jared C Monti - as a 10th Moun- Trouthdale, OR, 11:45 a.m. love for his fellow subordinate soldiers, in tain soldier - truly Climbed to Glory. His Monthly luncheon meetings are held the last Wednesday of each month at the Elk’s particular PFC Brian J. Bradbury — to ultimate sacrifice protects our freedoms Lodge, 13121 SE McLoughlin Blvd, Millwakie. OR, 11:45 a.m., unless announced not leave a wounded mountain soldier and serves as an inspirational beacon for otherwise, i.e. Nov. 17 and Dec. 14. Please attend when in the region. behind. our youth, and for the generations of Never Stop Exploring, and Enjoy the Journey. “Sergeant Jared C. Monti measured his Americans to come.” PAGE 12 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2 ARMADILLO Phebe Davol (Desc 86-L, HQ) On April 24, 2010, three veterans, one wife, two descendants and one husband of a descendant met in San Antonio, TX, at Crumpets Restaurant for lunch. They included Jack Davis (10-RECON, 87-I), Allen Stewart (86-C), Dillon (86-L) and Becky Snell, Heidi Brendemihl (Desc10-HQ) and Jeannie (Desc 710-ORD-HQ) and her husband Dean Geuras. Allen Stewart (86-C) told the following story, much to the delight of everyone there (one of the veterans had said something to the effect that in WWII, members of the Di- vision were all volunteers): “I interjected a comment to the effect that some of us had not volunteered but were drafted as recruits in the mid-1940’s. This evoked my tale of how I got into the “ski troops” after a long train ride from Camp Fannin, Texas. Remember, this happened over 65 years ago. The lengthy trip ended, with appropriate military orders, in my being deposited at a whistle stop train station known as Pando, CO. This was a small building through which new members of the 10th would be received, dispatched from the train, and told to go to their respective unit assignments at Camp Hale. It was said that the Division was based on what had once been the floor of an old lake before it was converted into a military camp site. I remember getting off the train about 8:00 in the evening, dark, cold, and a snowstorm in progress. Querying the stationmaster as to where Company C of the 86th Infantry Regiment might be located, he replied that it was at the other end Enjoying Spring picnic of Washington, D.C. Chapter, front row left, Hassell of the camp. I asked how far it was, and he said “About 25 blocks in the opposite direc- Vass (10 AT-A), Carl Lindh (88-H); back row George Welch (86-E), Ernest tion from the station.” Hunsberger (85-H), Arnold Holeywell (86 I, R). My next question, “How do I get there?” brought the answer, “You walk, Soldier.” The Division was out in the surrounding mountain on a training problem becoming ha- bituated to the climate of that mountainous area. Wearing khakis and bracing against WASHINGTON, D.C. the driving snow, I took off in the direction of the 86th (I hoped). Not having been told Kim Hudyma (Desc, 86-SVC) anything about the altitude at Hale, I was literally hurting with each breath and carry- ing the traditional “A” and “B” bags tied together with rope and slung over the shoul- The Chapter met on Feb. 27 in Linthicum, MD, at the Sleep Inn for a luncheon. der. Oh yes, my shoes, low quarter oxfords, were soon soaking wet with snow and ice, Twenty-four hardy members and three guests made it —the Mid-Atlantic States had as usual with the winter weather conditions. just recovered from a record 80 inches of snow— to find our speaker, Mike Plummer, After much fatigue and labored breath, I made it to the area of the unit. Yes, the Di- had to abort his trip because of a storm in Upstate New York. vision was “Out in the mountains” as mentioned earlier. With some ingenuity, and a A distinguished service award was presented to George Welch (86-E) in recognition little help from a soldier on guard duty, I found an empty barracks in what turned out to of his many years as our as our Chapter treasurer. be C Company. A fitful, cold, night followed with some word from someone to the ef- Articles were collected for our platoon in Afghanistan. 1st PLT, C Co, is at Camp fect that I should report to the Battalion Personnel building the next morning. Truly, I Alamo outside of Kabul at a military training center. They are paired with an Afghan do not remember how or what directed me to the correct office. Reporting in very ear- National Army basic training battalion. Abbie Kealy (Desc, 86-L) sends a care package ly the next morning, I was directed by a corporal to take a chair and wait. A number of to them every month. soldier clerks/typists were pounding their typewriters around me. On June 12 the Chapter held our annual Flag Day picnic at Arnold Holywell’s (86-I, The corporal’s first request was: “Let me see your three letters of recommendation R) home in beautiful rural Warrenton, VA. Five veterans attending were Ernest Huns- from the National Ski Association.” My answer surely was not what he expected. I berger (85-H), Hassell Vass (10-AT-A), Arnold Holeywell (86 I, R), Carl Lindh (86-H), said, “I have never heard of the National Ski Association.’’ and George Welch (86-E) and Mary Nencioni (85-I, W) came with their families. The second question: “Can you get someone to attest to your ability to ski?” The We were happy to see Arnold’s daughter, Ann, back in Virginia with her miniature second surprised response from me was: “I don’t know anybody who knows how to horses. We enjoyed our traditional steak cooked by Gene Hudyma. Other members ski.” By this time most of the typewriters had gone silent and I was aware that another brought lots of other salads and desserts to share. We presented our host with a fine soldier, in fatigues, was leaning against a door jam not far from the corporal, and he ap- bottle of wine from the Thousand Islands Winery. peared to be rather interested in the interrogation of one bewildered soldier at the cor- poral’s elbow. LOWER MICHIGAN The third question: “Soldier, can you demonstrate an ability to ski?” My continued Roy Puckett (87-G) bewildered reply was “Corporal, I have never seen a pair of skis. What kind of outfit is this?” The soldier at the door jam —who turned out to be the Battalion Commander— All the men —13 veterans and six descendants— and their families met in Franken- said: “Corporal, where did this soldier come from?” muth, MI, at the Michigan’s Own Military and Space Museum, off Main St. This mu- The reply: “Out of Texas, Colonel. He has orders, sir.” I still remember the seum, founded and run by Stan Bozich, has many medals and the uniforms on which Colonel’s comment: “Well, take him up on a mountain and push him.” they were displayed. One of our own soldiers has his story told (as well as displaying Thus this concludes this native Mississippian’s introduction to the Army’s only Ski his uniform) — the late Bill Seaman, 126th ENG, whose family was also in attendance. Troop Division. C’est la Guerre. In addition to family members and friends, the son of Chapter president Bob Lafean (Desc, 86-K) of the Michigan National Guard, was also present, having just returned from his second tour of Iraq. BLIZZARD SCHEDULE 2010 Gord Dibler was guest speaker. His stepson, the late Brain Fouty of the 10th Mtn Div (LI), was captured in Afghanistan in 2007; his remains were recovered in 2008. Issue No. Period covered Articles Deadline Harry Coleman (86-B) spoke about the care packages he has sent to deployed 10th 1 January - April February 15 Mountain soldiers and urged others to do likewise. Condolences were given to Art Schwartz (86-H), on the recent death of his wife Dolores. 2 May - August June 15 Close to 50 people then attended lunch in the Swiss Room of the Bavarian Inn. Bill 3 September - December October 15 Seaman’s niece Donna Cole brought pictures her uncle had taken of past Lower Michi- gan chapter events and shared them with everyone. Museum head Stan Bozich gave a SEND MATERIALS TO: brief update on the happenings in the museum. Finally, a 10th Mountain carrot cake was Felicity Hallanan, 95 Zahler Tract, Sandy Creek, NY 13145, [email protected] enjoyed by everyone and the word went out, “See you at Fort Drum!” 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 13 MEMORIAL DEDICATION SERVICE RECOGNIZES MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT The following remarks were delivered heavy fighting the German mountain de- mer members of the 10th Mountain Divi- Cavalry, 3rd Brigade Combat Team. at a dedication ceremony at Veterans fensive lines in Northern Italy. sion can attest to – but none more so than “Courage, exceptional courage, self- Memorial Park, Barnwell, South Caroli- “It was the dramatic close combat roles the demands on its Non-Commissioned less acts of heroism, and uncommon valor na, on April 10, 2010. Guest speaker at in the Italian mountains by the Non- Officers. Sergeant Monti met those de- marked Sergeant Monti’s final hour on the event remembering Medal of Honor Commissioned Officers, at the squad and mands — and inspired those around him. top of a 9,000 foot mountain with a supe- recipient SFC Jared C. Monti was COL platoon level, which spelled success in “SFC Jared C. Monti’s persona, relent- rior 60-man Taliban force pouring plung- (USA, Ret.) Wolf D. Kutter, former Com- those breakthroughs. less focus on fire-support training, excep- ing fire and attempting to overrun his 16 mander of Task Force Mountain Warrior. “Today, the 10th Mountain combat tional caring, and superb leadership skills man patrol’s position. 1st Brigade, 10th Mtn Div (LI). teams, trained to operate in the harshest marked him as a premier professional —a “His actions of directing the defense, mountain conditions and terrible weather, well honed fire support Non- organizing the perimeter, calling for “SFC Jared C. Monti is more than an have served around the globe, most no- Commissioned Officer —and an es- DANGER CLOSE fires, holding off a inspirational beacon, he is indeed a light- tably in Somalia, Haiti, Balkans, Iraq and teemed figure amongst the mountain sol- flanking attack that closed within 50 me- house – not only for our youth and citi- in Afghanistan. diers that he led on June 21, 2006, from ters of his position and attempting three zenry, but also for the standout, historic “10th Mountain soldiers are a special the HQs Troop of the 3rd Squadron, 71st (Continued on Page 11) achievements of the 10th Mountain Divi- breed whose tenacity, physical fitness, fo- sion “CLIMB TO GLORY” soldiers —- cus on mission accomplishment, and live and those yet to come. fire acumen – day and night and under ad- “The 10th Mountain Division, born in verse conditions - is legendary within the the crucible of World War II, trained ex- XVIII Airborne Corps and the Army. clusively in the mountains and became a “Much is demanded of the mountain strategic force in Italy when it unhinged in soldier, as some 200,000 serving and for-

Bronze plaques remembering soldiers killed in “the Army’s most-deployed division” ring the Mountaineer statue memorial area at Fort Drum. WOUNDED WARRIOR SCHOLARSHIP FUND DONORS FUND DONORS Borsting, Herbert S. & Doris Dichario, Col Joseph Campbell, Bruce th Church, Betty Ft. Drum Chapter, 10 Mtn Div Assn Ft. Drum Chapter, 10th Mtn Div Assn Hopper, John North Country Goes Green Irish Festival, Romig, Gary Inc. Smith, Steven Schaefer, Col. Richard Seattle Mountain Rescue Thompson, James Summit at Snoqualmie Washington State Parks Rangers Tirtakioglu, Thea P. Willis, Lester CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Date Chapter Event/Location July 17, 2010 Northwest 10th Mtn Div Memorial Grove, 9 a.m. July 24 Rocky Mountain Summer Picnic Aug. 6 Armadillo Luncheon, Houston Aug. 20-22 Rocky Mountain Steamboat Springs, CO Sept. 2-6 Midwest Reunion, Holiday Inn, Carol Stream, IL Sept. 17-19 Big Sky Annual Meeting, Bozeman, MT Oct. 15-17 Southeast Embassy Suites, Greenville, SC Medal of Honor recipient SFC Jared Monti is now remembered on a monu- Nov. 13 Washington, D.C. Veterans Day Meeting ment dedicated in April in the Veterans Memorial Park, Barnwell, South Car- Nov.17 Northwest Luncheon, Elk’s Lodge, Millwakie, OR olina. The monument was donated by an anonymous Vietnam veteran whose TBA Upper Peninsula Escanaba, MI son is a career soldier who has served in Iraq, Afghanistan and on the Honor Dec. 14 Northwest Luncheon, Elk’s Lodge, Millwakie, OR Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. PAGE 14 BLIZZARD 2010 NUMBER 2

and traveling. survived by 2 daughters and a son, a sister Cabacoy, SSGT Christopher F. (1st & 8 grandchildren, and predeceased by Sqdn, 71st Cav Rgt, 1st BCT), 30, July 5, his wife Evelyn (Wilson) and one son. An 2010, Kandahar, Afghanistan. He is sur- attorney, he worked with U.S. Rubber and vived by his wife Tami, son Aidan and a Wilson Manufacturing, and later raised brother. A native of Virginia Beach, VA, black angus cattle on his ranch. He was a he joined the Army in 2000, and had member of the National Oil/Equipment served one tour in Iraq. He and PFC Ed- Society, Church of the Good Shepherd win C. Wood were killed when an impro- Episcopal Church and on the board of vised explosive device (IED) detonated First Wichita National Bank. Farewell To near their vehicle. American Patriots Curry, Ora J, Sr. (126-HQ), 85, April Elkind, Stuart (86-K), 84, June 30, 8, 2010, Torrington, CT. He is survived by 2010, Sarasota, FL. He is survived by his 2 sons, 2 daughters, 5 grand- and 3 great- wife Barbara, a son and 2 grandchildren. Ainsworth, SSGT Jesse W. (1st Sqdn, preparing for deployment of Division grandchildren, and predeceased by his 71st Cav Rgt, 1st BCT), 24, July 10, 2010, headquarters later this year. He was one wife Patricia (Medlar). He operated Cur- Embree, Harry Val (87-Vet) 87, June Walakan, Afghanistan. He is survived by of 18 allied soldiers killed by a vehicle- ry Chevrolet and owned Torrington Hon- 10, 2010, Madison Co, MO. He is sur- his wife Sarah, 2 daughters, mother & a sis- borne improvised explosive device (IED). da. He was a golfer, enjoyed mowing and vived by his wife Ellen (Young), 4 sons, 7 ter. He enlisted in 2005, had served two Like LTC Thomas Belkofer, who was plowing, and attended many Association daughters, 13 grand-, 21 great- and 2 tours in Iraq, ad was a team leader when in- killed in the same incident, Bartz and his reunions. great-great grandchildren. He retired as surgents attacked his unit; he was killed by wife had met while in ROTC in college. supervisor from Ford Motor Company. an IED. Ainsworth enjoyed hunting & fish- Damiani, Arthur E. (87-E), 84, July He was a member of Christian Church in ing near his home near Dayton, TX. He had Belkofer, LTC Thomas P. (HQ, 10th 11, 2010, Farmington Hills, MI. He is Missouri, and was a life member of the wanted to make the Army a career. Mtn Div LI), 44, May 18, 2010, Kabul, survived by 3 sons, a daughter, 6 grand- VFW and UPHA. Afghanistan. He is survived by his wife children, a brother, sister and many nieces Anderson, SPC Brian “Bucky” Margaret “Margo” (Maness), 2 daughters, & nephews, and was predeceased by his Feltmeyer, Russell V. (10-AT-B), 85, Michael (1st BN, 87th INF,10th Mtn Div his parents, 2 brothers who have also wife Virginia Ann (Cullen) and 3 siblings. June 18, 2010, Gaines Township, MI. He LI), 24, June 12, 2010, Za Khel, served in the military. A native of Ohio, He retired from a 35-year career with the is survived by his wife Sybil, 2 daughters, Afghanistan from wounds sustained in an he served in the National Guard, then IRS, but continued to work until this past 4 sons & several grandchildren. He was a IED attack. He is survived by his mother, ROTC, finally for 18 years in the Army, spring. He enjoyed traveling, cooking, member of the 10th Mtn Div Assn, Ameri- father, brother, sister, a grandmother & stationed in Italy, Ft. Meade, MD, The golf and gardening. can Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. aunts & uncles. A native of Broadway, Pentagon, and one tour in Afghanistan. VA, he was a 4-year starter on the He was one of five U.S. officers, a Cana- Davis, Leslie B. (86-HQ), 90, May 5, wrestling team, 3-year starter on the foot- dian colonel and 12 Afghan civilians 2010, Ft. Myers, FL. He is survived by a Grider, Randall M. (85-MED), 90, ball team, and an All-American wrestler. killed when an IED blew up near their son, nephew, niece, great-nephews and - January 18, 2010, Tompkinsville, KY. He He joined the Army in 2008 and was as- convoy. niece. He was a lifelong printer, develop- is survived by his wife, Jennie Mae, one signed to the 1st Brigade Combat Team ing numerous calendars for businesses son, one daughter, 5 grand- & 6 great- (BCT) at Ft Drum. Belus, Cyril “Cy” B. (87-M), 89, and producing materials for leading mu- grandchildren and a great-great- April 5, 2010, Sheridan, WY. He is sur- sic firms in the Chicago area. He was in- grandchild. He spent six years teaching Archard, Merrill (Mel) Hamilton vived by his wife Barbara (Obert). He volved in Association activities, could vocational agriculture, 29 years as princi- (86-L), 88, February 19, 2010, served in both the Europe and Pacific build anything and helped others with pal of Tompkinsville HS, and served two Gainesville, FL. He is survived by his Theaters during WWII, then spent his life many projects. years as assistant superintendent and wife Bette Lindsey, 3 daughters, a son, 17 as a rancher in Wyoming and Montana. transportation director of the Monroe grand- and 6 great-grandchildren. He He was known as a livestock handler and Dikcis, SPC Alan N. (630 Engr Co, County School District. He later farmed served in a number of positions as profes- specialist in the quarter horse, and a 7th Engr Bn, 20th Engr Bde, 10th Mtn Div and raised Shorthorn cattle, and served as sor of education on the faculty of State member of Holy Name Roman Catholic LI), 21, March 5, 2010, Kandahar, deacon and elder at Tompkinsville University of NY (SUNY) New Paltz. In Church. Afghanistan. He is survived by his 3- Church of Christ. 1950 he started children’s Camp Laurel, year-old daughter, his father, and 5 broth- which was later moved to Readfield, ME, Bunzey, Robert “Bob” Sinclair Sr. ers, one of whom was injured in Hoelscher, Lewis A. (86-B), 86, July and later operated by his daughter and (86-D), 79, May 26, 2010, Denver, NC. Afghanistan last year. He was serving as 3, 2009, Bell County, TX. He is survived son-in-law. He participated in all phases He is survived by 3 sons, a daughter, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 630 by his wife LaVerne (Girndt), 5 sons, of camp life and is remembered by thou- sister and many grandchildren, and prede- Clearance Co when an improvised explo- brothers & sisters, 12 grand- and a great- sands of campers. ceased by his wife Elizabeth (Osborne) sive device (IED) struck his vehicle while grandchild. He retired from banking as a and a daughter. He was economics pro- he was retrieving a vehicle already hit. A vice president after 38 years. He was a Bailey, Conrad L. (126-HQ), 87, Jan- fessor at Lafayette College, and retired as native of Niagara Falls, NY, he joined the member of St. Luke Roman Catholic uary 20, 2010, Louisville, KY. He is sur- vice president of Collins & Aikman Corp. Army in 2007. He deployed for the first Church, Knights of Columbus, and vived by 2 sons, 7 grand- and 6 great- He enjoyed winter and summer sports, time in July, 2009. played piano in several bands over many grandchildren, and predeceased by his gardening, Big Band music, his church years. wife Beverly and 2 sons. Originally from and his family. Edgerton, SGT Donald R. (1st Sqdn, Columbus, OH, he was a carpenter and a 71st Cav Rgt, 1st BCT), 33, July 10, 2010, Jameson, Alton T. (85-C), 84, April 3, member of the VFW, Lakeside Baptist Burr, Robert O. (86-A), 84, May 3, Charadarre, Afghanistan. He is survived 2010, Durango, TX. He is survived by his Church, and the 10th Mtn Div Assn, and 2010, Lancaster, WI. He is survived by by his wife, daughter and parents Patsy & wife Ruth Jameson, 2 sons, a daughter, 6 remembered for his stories and quick wit. his wife Goldie Ann (Brandemuehl), 3 Don of Murphy, NC. He joined the Army grand- and 11 great-grandchildren and a sons, a grand- and 3 step-grandsons and in 2007, had served in Iraq, and was a sister. For 33 years he installed PBX sys- Bartz, LTC Paul R. (HQ, 10th Mtn others. He worked for several years in the senior sniper when he was stepped on a tems, internal business phone systems with Div LI), 43, May 18, 2010, Kabul, Orange Crush pop factory owned by his land mine during an attack. He is remem- outside lines, for Mountain Bell Telephone Afghanistan. He is survived by his wife parents and later for John Deere Dubuque bered by his family as a funny, loving man Co. When he was 76, he received his high Michelle, a son, his parents, a brother, 2 Works. He was a member of the United who never met a stranger. school diploma in a special ceremony at the sisters and several nieces and nephews. A Methodist Church, Masons, VFW and school, 59 years after he left Bayfield HS to native of Waterloo, WI, he was part of a American Legion Post 109. He and his Egan, Robert Knox (85-D, C), 84, enlist. He enjoyed skiing, snowmobiling team conducting key leader training and wife enjoyed singing, gardening, camping August 18, 2008, Wichita Falls, TX. He is (Continued on next page) 2010 NUMBER 2 BLIZZARD PAGE 15

Crystal Mountain ski area, and was a con- other soldier was killed and 3 injured. He servationist, widely-traveled adventurer, was involved in Junior ROTC, Boy and family man. Scouts, drama club, and soldier reenact- ments with his father, and worked at a Wiedorn, Albert A. (85-F), Holmes YMCA camp in summers. Beach, FL. He is survived by his wife Clarice. Wright, Herbert M. (85-C), 96, Octo- ber 15, 2009, Grand Junction, CO. He is Wood, PFC Edwin “Eddie” C. (1st survived by 2 sons and a daughter, and Sqdn, 71st Cav Rgt, 1st BCT), 18, July 5, predeceased by his wife Maxine. The two 2010, Kandahar, Afghanistan. He is sur- met when Wright went to Pocatello, ID, to vived by his parents Janis Boehmer & offer sympathies to the widow of Sgt Tom Wood, of Omaha, NE, a brother and Arthur Scott, who saved his life in Italy in a sister. He enlisted in 2009, arrived at Ft. 1945; they married in 1947. He was own- Drum April, 2010, to join the 10th Mtn er of a number of enterprises and served Div, and had just returned from home on Grand Junction City Council and as leave when an IED was detonated near the mayor. He often sang in his church, and truck he was driving, one day later. One enjoyed the out-of-doors. BACK TO ITALY Fellow soldiers move the caisson of SPC Brian “Bucky” Anderson, 1st BCT, (Continued fromPage 6) men were housed. We never found it (a lot killed in Afghanistan June 12, 2010. virtual silence, pretty exhausted. changes in 60 years), but the mayor’s Two days later, we drove to Cutigliano mother (age 90) later told him that she Renner, Robert (126-A), 89, April 30, at the appointed hour, where we were met recognized Fred from his WWII picture in 2010, Vancouver, WA. He is survived by 2 by the mayor, by Paolo (involved in the his book and knew where the house was. sons, 2 grand- and 4 great-grandchildren, a local group devoted to the study of the He called Michael with this good news niece, nephew and several grand-nieces & partisans), and by maybe 15 others, in- and an invitation to come back the next cluding a couple of journalists. We had a day, but it was too late. We were off to Mi- (Continued from previous page) nephews; he was predeceased by his wife Ruth (Matheson) and a son. He was a ca- fairly formal welcome at the City Hall, lan and our return home. and snowshoeing, as well as farming, riding reer log scaler and log and timber buyer, re- complete with speeches, the presentation I hope this trip meant as much to Fred horses and four-wheeling. He was a mem- tiring from RSG Forest Products. He trav- of gifts to Fred and me, and Fred’s presen- as it meant to me. It was not only a fun ber of the Colorado Mounted Rangers for eled extensively, was an expert woodsman, tation of Desert Days to the people of the and interesting vacation in Tuscany, but more than 30 years, and of the Durango a member of the VFW, and participated fre- village. We had a delightful, very long also a satisfying way to see with our own Seventh-day Adventist Church. quently in Association events. lunch, and Fred participated in another eyes the places that had such an impact on television interview. Fred when he was 20 years old. We are so King, Burl (87-HQ), 92, October 5, Then we spent a frustrating hour look- grateful to everyone who helped us. It was 2007, Harrison, AR. He is survived by a Rieckhoff, SPC Robert M. (2nd Bn, th ing for the exact house where Fred and his the trip of a lifetime. daughter, 9 grand-, 15 great- & 6 great- 15th Fld Arty Regt, 2nd BCT, 10 Mtn great-grandchildren, and was predeceased Div LI), 26, March 18, 2010, Baghdad, by his wife Versal (Yocham), a son & Iraq. He is survived by his two children, daughter. He was Marion Co. judge, and mother, stepfather, father, 2 sisters, grand- parents and many other relatives. A native MAIL CALL No o MAIL CALL atal ofh e in worked for the US Postal Service. He was thM A 0n 20 sso IMB TO 10t Dt L G C 1R L 0eu ci O F iat n R

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moron R ion D iona Y . ivn Nssat 1s0th Mt n tacked his unit with rocket-propelled son i i he i or Klockman, Raymond Charles (87- so ati ft un o wok o Y In. al s ci ontn. i si Inc Re i NYk RJW 4/09 atAhM vi on 2010 r,ew . Nione10t on r rt Dum otf hDYo k Fo ,New 2010 Reunirmu G), 93, January 19, 2010, Ada, MN. grenade fire. He was a member of VFW Fort D Posts 1865 & 7448, and had served 2 Muehleip, Delbert W. (604-C), 88, tours in Iraq, one in Kuwait, and just reen- To the Editor: April 16, 2010, Galena, IL. He is survived listed for 5 years. by 2 daughters, a son, 5 grandchildren and As a WWII vet, I had the opportunity to go to Washington, DC, and see the Memo- siblings, and was preceded in death by his Sullivan, J. Robert (86-I), 86, June rial. It was such an awesome sight. wife Margaret Ann (Fowler). He owned 10, 2010, Cincinnati, OH. He is survived When we got to the airport in Appleton, WI, in a big snowstorm, we were welcomed and operated Muehleip’s Home Furnish- by his wife, Phyllis (McKenna), 17 by so many people thanking us for our service. When we got to Washington, DC, it was ing, served as Galena State bank director, nieces and nephews, 11 great nieces and about 80 degrees. Again, we were welcomed at Dulles Airport by so many people and was active in City Council, Chamber nephews and his beloved dog, Oh Nell. thanking us for our service. of Commerce, VFW, Elks, Ducks Unlim- He had a career in the auto sales busi- Three buses were waiting for us, and there were girls standing on the sidewalk wav- ited and a member of Friends in Christ. ness, and the couple enjoyed attending ing flags and throwing kisses. As the bus left, there were men in uniform and they all He enjoyed trap shooting, hunting, fish- 10th Mtn Div Assn events around the stood at attention and saluted us. What an awesome welcome. ing and trapping. country. We got to see all the memorials, and the changing of the Guard at Arlington Nation- al Cemetery. On the way home we had Mail Call and got letters from our sponsors, kids Quijada, Manuel M. (604-FA), 85, Watson, R. Duke III, 94, April 22, and grandkids. January 21, 2010, Yuma, AZ. He is sur- 2010, Seattle, WA. He is survived by his When we got back to Appleton, we were welcomed by so many people again, again vived by his wife Catalina (Ybarra), 2 wife Marilyn (Black), 3 sons & 2 grand- thanking us for our service. We also had most of our kids there, and one granddaughter daughters, 4 sons, his sister, 20 grand-, sons. Combat in Italy ended when he was and daughter made signs “Welcome Grandpa & Dad” and thanking me for my service. 26- great- & one great- great grandchild. severely wounded, but only after leading Larry Eckstein (85-M) He contributed to Yuma’s agricultural his battalion to the summit of Mt. Della 6635 Hilltop Rd., Oshkosh, WI 54904-9738 economy as a self-employed hay loader, Torracia. After nearly six years of service and enjoyed sharing his interest in work- he retired as a major and re-entered the (Ed. Note: The Honor Flights treating participants to a trip to visit the WWII Memo- ing with old cars and machinery with his timber industry. He was known as a pio- rial and others in the nation’s capitol have been featured in earlier “Blizzards,” and are children and grandchildren. neer climber and skier, helping found the continuing as a grateful nation thanks its veterans.) National Association of the 10th Mountain Division, Inc. PRST FIRST CLASS U.S. POSTAGE PAID P.O. Box 150 PERMIT #184 Carthage, NY 13619 WATERTOWN, NY Return Service Requested 13601

National Reunion coverage in this edition is a sampler – more to come in the Fall!

Helicopters of the 10th Mtn Div Aviation Brigade prepared for the terrain they will find in Afghanistan in the Fall. Whiteface Mountain at Lake Placid, NY, is a short flight from Ft. Drum and provides a scene familiar to WWII vets and now familiar to today’s Mountain soldiers as well. Photographer PFC Michael Syner caught this breathtaking sight of a UH-60 Blackhawk approaching the peak. The Aviation Brigade has since been preparing further in Colorado Springs, CO –more country known to WWII vets. Story on Page 5.

IN MEMORY OF TENTH MOUNTAIN Memorial donations received with thanks The Mountaineer statue at Fort Drum was the focus of a moving DIVISION from 02/18/10 through 6/22/10 Memorial Ceremony at the recent National Reunion. FOUNDATION, INC. Mailing Address: Edmund D. Bennett: Nelson Bennett 133 South Van Gordon Street Norman Broderick: Mark N. Broderick, Suite 200 Patricia Broderick, Shirley B. Burford, Lakewood, CO 80228 Ruth & Harold Heil, Zandra Knotts, #303.756.8486 e-mail: [email protected] Shelley Knutson, Dale L. Kurtz, DVM, Keeley M. Rincon Thomas Hames, Chairman of the Board Verna J. Hames: Travelers Foundation Gary Burton, President Steve Wilmot, Executive Vice President Robert G. Irwin: Joseph Berry Jennifer Neville, Secretary Alton T. Jameson: Joseph Berry Thomas Thompson, Treasurer James Leslie: Dr. Larry W. Fields ADVISORY BOARD: Delbert Muehleip: Peggy & Don Giffels, All Chapter Presidents Marian Siatczynski BOARD OF DIRECTORS Maurice Murphy: Joseph Berry Officers of the Foundation plus: Albert N. Nencioni: Abbie Kealy Bjorn Dahl Ruso Donald Perkins William E. Osgood: H. Newcomb Trux Dole Denise Taylor Eldredge Patricia Finn Thornton Flint Whitlock Scollay C. Parker: Joseph Berry Robbi L. Farrow John P. Wright David D. Reed: Constance R. McClellan Sue Hagerman Mike Plummer, National Abbie Kealy Assn. President Frank P. Roccaforte: Family of Frank P. John Litchfield Val Rios, Descendants Roccaforte David Little President Robert W. Smith: Andre E. Benoit Few words are needed to explain a homecoming, except to say that Robert Sullivan: Betty & Anthony HONORARY BOARD: physician’s assistant Capt. Karen Fish, 3d Brigade Special Troops Bn, is Stuart Dodge Kreiner, Pat & John O’Neill, Richard D. surrounded by her family in a familiar scene at Magrath Gymnasium, Ft. Hugh Evans Soutar, Blanche & Tim Sullivan, Joan C. Drum, Dec.10, 2009, as the unit began returning from Afghanistan. Ralph Nanninga Walson –Photo by PFC Melissa Stewart. Frank Romano Bob Woody: H. Newcomb Eldredge