Mills County, Iowa

WILMA WILLIAMS FUCHS SCRAPBOOK
World War II Era Articles
These beautiful articles were generously donated by Wilma Fuchs in 1999.

Page 61

GARRETT WRITES FROM ITALIAN PRISON CAMP

Mr. and Mrs. M.I. Garrett of this city, are in receipt of a card from their son, Ross, who is a prisoner of the Italian government.  The card is printed in English and the Italian translation is beneath each word.

The card had been filled in and signed, and Mr. and Mrs. Garrett identified the signature as Ross's.

By a process of elimination of phrases from the card, Ross sent the following message:  "I am all right.  I have not been wounded.  I am a prisoner of the Italians and I am being treated well.

"Shortly I shall be transferred to a prisoners' camp and I will let you have my new address.

"Only then will I be able to receive letters from you and to reply."

Even though the message is not Ross's own personal message, yet evidently he is not wounded as he was given a choice of saying if he was not and there is strong home that he may be able to write more later.  This is the first word received from him directly since he was taken prisoner.

BELIEVE GODSEY TO BE IN ITALIAN PRISON CAMP

Mrs. Francis K. Godsey of Pacific Junction, wife of Carn Godsey, has received word from Adj. Gen. Ulio of Washington her husband is believed to be an Italian prison of war.

Mr. Godsey left Council Bluffs as First Sergeant of a local National Guard Company, although when original dispatches were received here of Godsey's loss in action he was reported as a second Lieutenant.

"SULLY" HONIG IS ITALIAN PRISONER

Mrs. Robert Honig received official word Saturday from the United States government that her husband, "Sully" Honig, is a prisoner of war of the Italian government.  This word confirms Mrs. Honig's belief that he was a prisoner of war.

ROSS BOYCE WRITES FROM ITALIAN PRISON CAMP

Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Boyce of this city are in receipt of a letter from their son, Ross, who is in an Italian prison camp in which he says, "Am a prisoner.  Lester (Haynie) is with me.  We are well and treated good.  Send a five pound box through the Red Cross.  Trust in God. We are."

He also asked that they check with the Red Cross in regard to sending mail and indicated that he would like to have gum and candy sent to him.

A similar card was also received by Glenwood relatives from Lester Haynie, whom he refers to in his message.

SEND MESSAGE FROM ITALIAN PRISON CAMP

Mrs. Minnie Edmonds of this city this week received a letter from her son, Bill, who is a prisoner of the Italian government, in which he says he is safe and sound in a transit camp in Italy.  He said that he was being transferred to Germany and that further work would follow soon.

LETTER RECEIVED FROM CPL. GALLIHER

Cpl. Paul Galliher of Malvern, a member of the Red Oak coming who was reported as missing after Faid pass, is a prisoner of the German government, according to word received Friday in Red Oak.

His parents received a letter from him on May 3rd, informing them that he is well.

Cpl. Galliher is the fourth Malvern soldier listed as missing reported to be a prisoner.

SERGEANT GODSEY IN STALAG 3-B CAMP

Interesting letter comes from Carn Godsey telling of wonderful work of the Red Cross among prisoners held in German camps.

Another Mills County man, who is in a German prison camp, was heard from recently when Mrs. Frances Godsey  of Route No. 1, Pacific Junction received a letter from her husband, Sergeant Carn A. Godsey, who was taken prisoner in the Tunisian Campaign where he was serving with a Council Bluffs unit of the National Guard.

Sergeant Godsey, who is in Stalag 3-B camp writes as follows; 16th April, 1943

Dearest Frances and all;

Greetings everyone.  Am now in a new camp in ---.  Am O.K. and well treated and that is not propaganda.  Want to say that the Red Cross is the most wonderful society mankind has ever organized.  We act like kids at Christmas time as we receive our parcels each week.  Yesterday we also got toilet kits and did my beard come off quick.  My second shave in 3 months.  Do not worry about us in the least.  I am allowed to write two letters and 4 cards each month.  Hope to hear from you before long.  Keep well.  My love for you all at High Tide always.

Carn

ED HAYES HEARS FROM SON BLAINE IN GERMANY

Dear Mother and all:

Isn't this a pretty kettle of fish?  I know there is no sense of my telling you not to worry but look at it this way.  I'm a hundred times safer here than I was on the front.  The Red Cross has probably told you by this time just what you can send me.  They say it takes five months to get the first package through.  Here are a few things I need.  Ross ruined his letter form so will not be able to write this time so get in touch with his folks and have them send him the same as you send me.

Our toilet articles now amount to a comb and a piece of soap.  We need everything in that line including towels and wash cloths, hankies, T-shirts, shorts, heavy work sox, 8 inch boots with heavy composition, 9 1/2 B for me and 7D for Ross, warm husking gloves, stocking cap, extra shoe laces, 1 wheel can opener.  You will only be able to send so many pounds but send the limit.  We get enough to eat but you can send chocolate.  It will be cold here when this gets through so let no grass grow under  your feet.  I'll write as often as possible and you do the same.  Love to all, Blaine.

EARL KRECKLOW AND KEN MYERS TOGETHER IN CAMP

In a letter to his family, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Krecklow, Earl tells of being with Kenneth Myers since they were captured Feb. 17.

3-17-43

Dear Mother and Dad:

I hope this finds everyone well back there.  We are both feeling fine except for a slight cold.  We were captured Feb. 17 in Tunisia, and then were brought to Germany.  We are in a camp and it isn't bad at all.  We get a Red Cross box every week besides what the Germans feed us.  So we have plenty to eat.  The Non-Commissioned officers don't have anything to do except eat, sleep, read and have games for exercises.  We have stoves in our barracks to cook on.   We have a lot of fun fixing our meals.  I think I'll take up cooking when I get home.  Sgt. Kenneth Myers and I have stayed together all the time.  Orville is in another barracks.  We get to send four cards and 2 letters a month.  You can write as often as you like.  Send packages.  You can get the information from the Red Cross.  Send me a tooth brush and razor. I lost everything except what I have on.  Tell everyone hello and don't worry about us for we are O.K.  Until next time.  All my love.  Earl.

ABE THOMAS WRITES FOLKS FROM PRISON CAMP

Dear Folks:

A few lines to let you know I'm I.K.  They've moved me to a German camp and it's really swell to what we had to put up with when we were first captured.  This is sure a pretty country here but I think I'd rather be back in the States.  There isn't much that I can say in a letter like this but I can let you know how I'm getting along.  We get a Red Cross box every week and they're really swell.  They have quite a bit of stuff to eat, with two packs of cigarettes and a package of pipe tobacco.  I can make out pretty good on everything right now, so don't worry about me.  I've got my prison number now and I think I'll be able to receive some mail now if it can ever catch up with me.  This is about all for now.  So Long everyone.

Love, Abe and Red

VERRIS HUBBELL WRITES FROM OFLAG CAMP

Mrs. Verris Hubbell received a letter from Verris Hubbel who is in Oflag 9AZ Camp in Germany.  He tells about getting books from the Library and about making himself a swimming suit from an old sweater, and that he hopes to receive some mail next month.

BOYS HEARD FROM IN PRISON CAMP

Parents who have been gladdened this week by word from their sons in German prison camps are Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Marshall, who heard from Walter, and Mr. and Mrs. Shirley Mayberry, who heard from Duane and Glen, Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Stone, Mrs. Howard Mintle, from Staff Sgt. Howard Mintle and Mr. and Mrs. Ed Hayes from Sgt. Blaine Hayes.

The communications were dated the last of March.  In all instances, the boys stated they were well and urged their families not to worry about them.

ROSS BOYCE WRITES FROM PRISON CAMP

April 16, 1943

Dearest ones All,

Lester and I are both well and getting along fine.  We had a nice trip on the way to Germany.  There was a lot of interesting sights to see on the way.  Duck Surber and Sully are both well too.  We are eating good.  We get Red Cross packages in addition to our regular meals.  In a few days we will get some new clothes.  When we get settled I will be allowed to write two cards and two letters per week I am told.  Today drew a library book.  It seems to be quite interesting.  It is a Detective story.  This morning after using my new issue of toilet articles to a good advantage, a few of the boys done some boxing, it was quite interesting to watch.  My address of my camp and new serial number is P.F.C. Ross E. Boyce, American P.O.W. No. 111602, Stalag 7 A, Germany, via New York, N.Y. Take care of yourselves.  See you in the future.

Ross Boyce


Page 62
 

1ST LIEUT. WALKER WRITES CHANGE OF ADDRESS

An interesting letter came to our desk from 1st Lieut. Lewis E. Walker sending his new address for his paper, in which he writes "I am with a new outfit and have a new duty, that of Registrar and for the first time in my army life have more than enough to do.  It might be interesting to you to know that I have met Dr. Ward DeYoung over here, Capt. DeYoung he is now.  He is looking great.  Has lost his office pallor and is as tanned as a boy.

We have a terrific amount of military power over here and the Jerry's know it.  We will all be glad when we begin the much awaited push.  The English are quite confident of an early victory, and we Americans are but a couple of months behind them in our predictions.  It only remains for us to convince Jerry.  All you have heard about the British is true.  Their courage is unsurpassed but their weather is awful.  They make excellent hosts and have done a lot to ease our naturally awkward position here.

All in all I have no complaint, except at being so far from home.  I only found time to write this letter because I am a patient in our own Installation, recovering from a touch of the flu, nothing serious but an in bed.  Hoping my next change of address will be North Hazel St. Glenwood, I remain,

Lewis E. Walker

1st Lieut. M.A.C.

3rd Station Hosp.

APO 505 % Postmaster

New York City, N.Y.

CAPT. JAMES KIRKENDALL

Capt. James Kirkendall visited an Allied Officers' Club, somewhere in Italy, on the evening of Dec. 15, saw a second lieutenant pass by and thought he looked familiar.  He walked over to him and said, "How are you, Dick?"  Sure enough, it was Dick Honig, proving as Capt. Kirkendall says, "for the umpteenth time what a small world it is."  Dick's outfit had been in the thick of the conflict and he was back for a long talk and exchanged news and views.

1ST LT. KEITH HOPP'S AIR MEDAL PRESENTED TO FATHER

An air medal, conferred upon a flier upon completion of five raids over enemy territory, and an oakleaf cluster, which is given at the completion of each additional five raids, have been granted to 1st. Lt. Keith Hopp, taken a prisoner of war while making his thirteenth mission over Germany.  They were presented to his father, Leo D. Hopp, on Saturday afternoon at formal exercises at Creighton University Stadium in Omaha.  Participating in the ceremony were a bugle corps and four companies of Army Air Corps Cadets.  Members of Lt. Hopp's family who attended were his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leo D. Hopp, his wife, Mrs. Keith Hopp, his brother, Robert Hopp, and his sister, Mrs. Marion Shook, and Mr. Shook, all of Glenwood.  Joining the Hopp family in Omaha were Miss Harriet Marshall of Kansas City and Sgt. Donald Nielsen of  Ft. Crook.

 
CADET HARRY J. WIDOWS TRANSFERRED TO N. MEXICO

Aviation Cadet Harry James Widows, 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. Widows of Glenwood, Iowa, has completed basic pilot training in the Army Air Forces at Chico Calif., Army Air Field.

Cadet Widows has been transferred to Ft. Summer, New Mexico, for advanced pilot training.  Upon completion of advanced training he will receive his wings.

SEAMAN JOHN ANDERSON ILL WITH MENINGITIS IN VA.

Seaman John R. Anderson is ill in isolation for cerebral spinal meningitis at Camp Perry, Va., according to a message received by Mrs. Anderson on Monday.  Through the Red Cross, a confirmatory message came to Dr. D.W. Harman, stating that his condition was serious.  Seaman Anderson tried to call his wife by phone from Richmond, Va., on Sunday afternoon but the call could not be completed.  She, therefore, assumes that he did not become ill until after that time.  Since he is now isolated, she will not make the trip to Virginia, as she would not be privileged to see him.

AVIATION CADET TED E. LEE COMPLETES BASIC FLYING

Aviation Cadet Theodore E. Lee has just completed his basic flying training at the Merced Army Air Field, California.  He will now proceed to an Army Advanced flying school at Douglas, Ariz., where he will take the final steps toward attainment of his silver pilot wings.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Lee, San Luis Obispo, Calif., former residents of Glenwood.

 PFC CHAS. SANDERS WANTS TO HEAR FROM HOME FOLKS

Pfc. Chas. H. Sanders, who is somewhere in North Africa writes requesting the home town paper be sent to him.  He had been receiving it for a time but for some cause had lost out on it for a time.  He says in part, "I sure enjoy the paper and hearing from home.  I would like to hear from all my friends in and around Silver City and also in Glenwood.  Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  His address is Pfc. Charles H. Sanders 37036793, Co. G. 133rd, Inf. 2nd Bn. APO 512 % Postmaster, New York City, N.Y.

SGT FRED SCHOENING WRITES FROM AFRICA

Says "You are doing grand job fighting hard war against taxes and OPA.  Keep your chin up and have a chicken broiling."

December 23, 1943

North Africa

Dear Editor;

We have been hearing some great reports from you folks in a great upheaval.  Factories which have been shut down for a long time are now opening and factories which have been open for a long time are now shutting down.

The ration has hit us hard out this way.  Such things as fresh milk, scotch and soda, bananas and filet mignon are things we only dream about.  But as long as we know that you are getting your share of these things we'll be thankful, because there are plenty of other things we can eat out here--spam, salmon, vienna sausages and so forth, just to mention a few.

Things in the police department are as busy as ever and the police blotter is getting more blotted each night.  The other day the MP's picked up a lot of perfectly respectable, drunken soldiers.

Cary Grant, Ethel Barrymore, Hedy Lamaar, Eddie Cantor, Bing Crosby, and Benny Goodman's orchestra are few of the celebrities we have never seen.

Thieves broke into an Arab's grocery store the other night and made off with two dozen oranges.

Politics have dropped way off. The boys have been so busy that they haven't had time to hold any recent elections, so it looks very much as if Gen. Eisenhower is in for another term.

You are probably wondering what we are driving, what we are wearing, what we are saying.  Very often we wonder the same things.

There are many styles of vehicles in this part of the world.  We realize that we are not setting the style at the moment.  The most popular type of conveyance is the country truck, weight two and one-half tons.  Most army families prefer this luxury liner, with its air-cushioned tires and oil-fed lubrication to smaller models, primarily because we can be packed in so closely.  There is a lower prices automobile, the four cylinder, one quarter ton "Jeep."  This is a very popular model with the officers.  Enlisted men are sometimes rewarded for good behavior by assigning them as drivers of this model.

Clothing strikes rather a smart note in the Arabic surroundings.  Everyone, it seems, has switched towards the military lines in dress.  Plain, ordinary overalls have been streamlined, greened up and given a new title of "Fatigues."  Tuxedos and tails have disappeared from the night clubs and night clubs, too, have disappeared.  You might care to know that heck-tie knots are currently being pulled into small, dirty balls.

The boys are saying that this war can't last forever and perhaps a bit longer.  Anyway, don't you think we've got a lot of spirit and plenty of gumption when we look into each other's bloodshot eyes and say, "Wot de hell, de war can't last forever."

We have no complaints about the climate, after all, it isn't anybody's fault if the rotten rain never stops, if the sun comes out only when we've gone in, if it gets so damn cold in the gloomy morning that we fall in line wearing our blankets.

Other than that, we manage to keep pace with army regulations, which seems to be our primary objective at the moment.  Meanwhile you are doing a grand job and we are really fighting a hard war against taxes, prices and the OPA.

Keep your chin up and have a chicken broiling in the oven for the time when we will be seeing you again.

Very sincerely yours,

Sgt. Fred J. Schoening

37260131

Co. C. 561., Sig. AW Bn.

APO 525 % P.M.

New York, N.Y.

Page 63

June 12, 1945

(Note)  There is quite a lapse of time between the last additions and these.  This was due the fact papers were destroyed.  Here after closer observation will be needed on my part.  These new additions are taken from April to July of 1944, and from June 1945  on.

SEVEN BOYS FROM GREAT LAKES ALL HOME ON FURLOUGH

Ten young Mills County men have the unusual record of having gone to the Navy together on March 23, having been sent to Great Lakes Naval Training School on March 23, where they were all assigned to Co. 646, and now all are at home on identical furloughs.  Seven Glenwood boys are Coe Peppers Jr., Luke Case, Russell Hughes, Ernest Mullenax, Elvin Culley, Walter Leick and Lawrence Sell.  Completing the group are Raymond McDowell and Kenneth Winters of Emerson and Jess Taylor of Malvern.  They arrived in Mills County Sunday for a stay of a week.  They have finished boot training at Great Lakes.

ALBERT HOLIDAY TELLS PARENTS HE IS SOON TO GO ACROSS

Mr. and Mrs. A.S. Holiday received a letter from their son, Sgt. Albert Holiday which reads in part.

March 28, 1944

Dear Mother and Dad:

Keep your chin up Mom and carry it proudly because I am going to make you and Dad both just as proud of your son as I possibly can.

By this time you should know that my time for going over it very close.  This will be the last letter from me from the States.  It will probably be a week or two, maybe a month before you hear from me again.  I will write just as soon and often as possible.  It will take the letter quite a bit longer to reach you from now on because they will be delayed.  So if it is a long time before you hear from me Mom don't worry, I'm in good hands, the Navy and God above and none could be better.  I am writing this letter from the Y.M.C.A. here on the Post.  They have been playing the piano and singing ever since I've been in here tonight.  It reminds me of the time there at home when all of us kids use to gather around the piano and sing.  Those days will come again Mom and I have a feeling it will be soon.

Your loving son, Albert

MILES REAZER JR. RETURNED TO GLENWOOD FRIDAY

Miles Reazer Jr. arrived in Glenwood last Friday, having received his medical discharge from the Army.  Miles sustained a serious leg injury while operating with the British Commandos in North Africa, for which he was hospitalized.  Later he developed a stomach ailment from which he is still suffering.

LEROY BYERS F.C. 3/C IS ON FURLOUGH HERE

Leroy Byers, Fire-Controlman 3/c of the Navy, came in last Tuesday for a furlough with his wife, parents and other relatives in Glenwood.  This is his first visit home in two years.  He has been on a cruiser in the South Pacific the past 18 months, and wears stars to indicate that he has participated in four major battles.  Roy has lost considerable weight while he has been away.  He describes the weather in the South Pacific as rather similar to what he finds in Glenwood now, that is, plenty of rain.  When the sun shines, however, it is scorchingly hot.  Officer Byers has orders to report in San Francisco on May 19.

PVT. PERRY E. BISHOP IS WOUNDED IN ACTION

Mr. and Mrs. Perry Bishop of this city received word that Pvt. Perry E. Bishop was wounded in action, April 13 and is in the hospital.  It will be remembered that Jerry joined the Canadian Army, playing with the Regimental Band.  He has been over seas for two years.  His wife and daughter live at Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.  His little daughter will soon be two years old and she has never seen her father.  Pvt. Perry is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Perry Bishop of this city, he graduated with the class of 1940 from the Glenwood High School.  His address now is Pvt. Perry E. Bishop K 48035 in Hospital, Westminter Regt., Canadian Army, C.A.C.M.F.

LIEUT MAX MYERS VISITED HERE

Lieut. Max Myers of Palm Springs, Calif., arrived in Glenwood for a few hours visit with his grandmother, Mrs. A.P. Myers and other friends Monday.  He had flown a bomber to the Glenn L. Martin plant and returned by air the same evening.  He formerly lived in Glenwood and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. G.W. Myers of Sacramento, Calif.

A.R. Vilas, ARCT, and wife and son William of the naval base near Norfolk, Va., are visiting the parental Ray Wiles home.  The party arrived Wednesday morning and will remain until the latter part of the week.  Chief Vilas, a resident of California has served about two years in the naval service.

1ST LIEUT. HOPP WRITES FROM PRISON CAMP

November 22, 1943

Dear Mom and All:

I am a prisoner of the Germans, I was shot down in November over Holland.  Quite an experience, I am being treated quite well by the Germans.  I am in a camp somewhere in Germany.  Getting plenty of food.  Thanks to the Red Cross, Give and do all you can for it, as it is wonderful for us prisoners.  I am staying in a large barracks divided into rooms.  Not a bad stall except the barbwire around here.

This is a camp for air force only, so I will see none of the fellows from home.  Sure hope you have heard I am alright by now.   Can sure see how much you all were worried.  Mom be sure dad has got $100 from Polly to give to Murphy's for a deposit on a new car.  My allotment will keep going to Polly and the rest will pile up till I get back home to collect.   I made 2 more trips than the last number I told you.  You can send me all the letters you want to, and other stuff through the Red Cross.  Sure want the papers, Opinion and World Herald, also Games.

Well, don't worry about me, I am uninjured and well.  Food is ok and will be home soon we hope, Merry Christmas. Love,

Keith

First Lieut. Donald K. Hopp.

S SGT. AND MRS. MARION EVANS HERE ON FURLOUGH

S. Sgt. and Mrs. Marion Evans of San Diego, Calif., are here on a 15 day furlough which they are spending with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.C. Evans, and his sister and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Hiley.  Sgt. Evans is of the Marines.  Accompanying them here are Mrs. Frank Mittlestadt of Storm Lake, who have been in California for the winter.

 MAJOR AND MRS. SEITZ LEFT MONDAY FOR TEXAS

Major and Mrs. Chas. R. Seitz, Mrs. Marvin Seitz and infant son left Monday to motor to Houston, Texas, where Lt. Marvin Seitz is stationed.  This will be his first introduction to his little son, who was born at the Jennie Edmundson hospital.  Maj. Seitz plans to remain in Houston two days after which he will continue to Miami Beach, Fla., where he is to report May 2.  On his way, he will visit a retired army officer at Gulfport, Miss., who was his close friend when they were in the regular army.  Mrs. Charles Seitz will return to Glenwood to stay until the end of the school year.

Major Seitz has been in England recently inspecting U.S. Army Air Fields.  He commends the precision of every detail in preparation for the forthcoming invasion and foresees a successful, if costly, operation.  Speaking of the scarcity of everything of a luxurious nature in the English shops and the absence of fruit, almost entirely, Maj. Seitz finds the United States a different world altogether with no blackout and an abundance of food, comparatively speaking.

Through his army career, Maj. Seitz has seen a great part of the world.  After being stationed at several places in the U.S.A., he has completed two trips to Europe.  Earlier in his army life, he was stationed in the Hawaiians and the Philippines.  The Major has no idea where his next orders will take him, but intimated that he would not be a verse at all to being sent to Australia or the Caribbean area.

IN THE PACIFIC

James A. Hafer, Petty Officer 3/c Fire Controlman, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Hafer of Silver City, graduated from the Silver City High School with the class of 1939.  He was a Linotype operator for the Silver City Times since his graduation to his enlistment into the Navy in 1942.  He received his boot training at the Great Lakes, and received training as Fire Controlman at San Diego, Calif.  In 1943 he was assigned to a destroyer and is now somewhere in the South Pacific.

SERVED ON HORNET

Willard G. Jones, V-12 Unit, Doane College Crete, Nebr.  Willard graduated from the Silver City high school with the class of 41.  He enlisted in the Navy in August of the same year taking his boot training at the Great Lakes training station.  After 6 weeks he was given 10 days leave home, going back to the Great Lakes he was sent to Norfolk, Virginia, where he was stationed on the Aircraft carrier the USS Hornet.  The next word from him came after the Hornet was sent to the Pacific.  He was on look out duty when the Japs attacked the Hornet after Doolittle and his men had bombed Tokio.  After the sinking of the Hornet he was picked up and taken to survivors camp, from there he was sent to the U.S.S. Crescent, where he served as Coxswain.  He and 4 other boys were sent back to the United States for officers college arriving here about 6 weeks ago.

LIEUT. JACK ROLL FLYING INSTRUCTOR AT PERRIN FIELD, TEXAS

Lieutenant Jack P. Roll, 25, son of Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Roll, Glenwood, has reported to this AAF Training Command basic flying school for assignment as a flying instructor.

Formerly stationed at Perrin as an aviation cadet, Lt. Roll took his advanced flight training at Eagle Pass, Tex., then completed a course at Central Instructors school, Randolph Field, prior to being returned here.

Page 64

RICHARD LEET GRADUATES FROM TORPEDOMAN COURSE

Among those graduating from an intensive course of Torpedoman training at recent Service School exercises here was Richard L. Leet, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Leet, Glenwood.

This Bluejacket was selected for his specialized training on the basis of his recruit training aptitude test scores.  Graduates from the twenty specialized courses taught here at the Service School are sent to sea, to shore stations, or to advanced schools, for active duty or further training.

SELL YOUTHS ARE TRANSFERRED

A/S Vern Sell has been sent from  Sheppard Field, Texas, to Randolph Field, Texas, for further training in the Air Corps.  His brother Pvt. Ercell Sell is now stationed at a German Prisoner of War Camp at Camp White, Oregon.

FREDERICK BISHOP COMPLETES BASIC FLYING TRAINING

Aviation Cadet Frederick E. Bishop, son of Mr. and Mrs. Perry E. Bishop, 702 Hazel St., Glenwood, Iowa, has successfully completed his basic flying training at the Lemoore Army Air Field and now takes his final hurdle at an Army Air Forces Advanced Flying Training School before receiving his silver wings.

CAPT. HARRY HOFMANN WRITES RODABAUGH FAMILY

Air Mail

May 1, 1944

Dear Bill;

Shoving off on one of those things, My luck can't last forever.  I hope it doesn't run out on this one, 27 months overseas, purple heart, silver Star, one of the three men to come out of Faid pass.  I've killed so dam many Jerries I dream about them.  I am punchy like a sack.

Anyhow, Bill, I'll always appreciate you and Helen and Ken.  Good luck and cherrio.

A/C JACK BUFFINGTON COMPLETED BASIC TRAINING

Aviation Cadet Jack M. Buffington, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Buffington, R 3, Glenwood, Iowa, has successfully completed his basic flying training at the Lemoore Army Air Field and now takes his final hurdle at an Army Air Forces Advanced Flying Training School before receiving his silver wings.

Before entering the service Cadet Buffington was a student at the Iowa State College, and a member of Beta Theta Pi.

SISTER IN BLUFFS RECEIVES PURPLE HEART FOR BROTHER

Mrs. Bonnie Stranathan Riggins, of Council Bluffs, recently received the Purple Heart for her brother Chief Machinest Mate Dale Chester Stranathan, who was on the Destroyer Peary when it was bombed and sunk in February 1942.  Dale Chester is a son of Roy Stranathan and a nephew of Mrs. Carl Morgan of this city.

S.W. KIER (PETE) IN SEATTLE FOR TREATMENT

Mrs. Nora Kier received word from her son S.W. (Pete) Kier that he is in Seattle, Wash., where he will be in the hospital for treatment for a few months, he states that he has never been in a hospital in Calif., he arrived there April 9, stayed a few days, and was sent to Seattle, Wash., and he has not been wounded.  His address is S.W. Kier, Bkr. 1/c, USN Hospital Ward 4, Seatttle, Wash.  He would like to hear from his friends, he has not seen anyone he knew for two years, and (Incomplete).

HEAR FROM SON THROUGH BROADCAST

Dear Mrs. Gertrude Johnson,

While listening to a Tokyo radio broadcast last night, we heard messages read that were written by boys who are war prisoners in Germany.  There was a message for you from your son, Verle Johnson.  He said he is well and he hopes you are too, tell everyone hello and write often.  He said not to worry and he sent his love.

The messages were all very short but you will be happy to hear from him.

Please write to me.

Sincerely,

Reval Bond

PVT CHARLES HUNT QUALIFIED AS ARMY'S M-I RIFLE MARKSMAN

Private Charles W. Hunt, trainee of "A" Company, 174th Infantry Replacement Training Battalion, Camp Hood, Texas, qualified as Marksman with the Army's M-I Rifle, according to Lieutenant Colonel Earl W. Hunting, Battalion Commander.  The course consisted of firing at 200, 300, and 500 yards in both slow and sustained fire.

Private Hunt, who is now in his tenth week of basic training has also fired familiarization courses with the 50 Caliber Machine gun, 30 Caliber Carbine, Landscape Firing, Towed Target Firing, Aerial Target Firing, and Transition Range Firing.  Later in his training he will undergo a course in Field Target Firing.

Pvt. Hunts' family resides at 412 North Locust St., this city.

MAJOR SEITZ STATIONED AT MIAMI BEACH, FLA.

Maj. Charles R. Seitz, recently returned from service outside the continental United States, now is being processed through the Army Air Forces Redistribution Station No. 2 in Miami Beach, where his next assignment will be recommended.

This is one of the Redistribution Stations within the command of the AAF Redistribution Center.  At an AAF Redistribution Station, AAF returns from theaters of operation are examined by specially selected medical and classification officers whose joint findings are used in determining new assignments.  Theme of the AAF Redistribution program is destination of each man to duty for which he is best fitted.  Returnees live at a Redistribution Station under conditions that encourage natural response to processing, a majority of their two-week stay being devoted to rest and recreation.

AAF personnel, including enlisted men and officers alike, are assigned to a Redistribution Station upon their return to the United States, but do no report to the Station until completing a furlough or leave of approximately three weeks.

Major Seitz served ten months in England as Group Technical Supply Officer and Base Defense Officer and as a Commanding Officer of an Air Depot Group.  He was hospitalized for one month on his return to the U.S.  The Major was overseas twice; Nov. 10, 1942 to April 1, 1943, and from Oct. 8, 1943 to March 6, 1944.

The 52 year old Major is the husband of Mrs. Ella W. Seitz of Glenwood, Iowa.

MRS. PERRY BISHOP

Mrs. Perry Bishop reports receiving a letter from her son, Perry Bishop, Jr., who was with the Canadian army and was wounded April 13, in the shoulder.  He has been in the hospital since.  He states he is much improved and feeling fine but is still in the hospital.

PETTY OFFICER LESLIE KEENE

Petty Officer S 2/c Leslie Keene who is stationed in Seattle, Wash., left Thursday after spending a few days here.

PFC ROBERT HUNT AT BOCA RATON FIELD, FLA.

Pfc. Robert V. Hunt, of Glenwood, who is now stationed at Boca Raton Field, a technical school of the AAF Training Command, has been promoted to the grade of Corporal.  He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Hunt, 402 North Walnut St., Glenwood, Ia.

GLENWOOD SOLDIERS MEET IN ENGLAND

Sgt. Neils Lawson, with a Headquarters Company at an Air Base somewhere in England, writes to his sister, Mrs. Edwin Fleer, that he has seen the first person from home since his arrival in England last October.  Louis Jens Jr., was recently assigned to some construction work as a compressor on a runway at the Base where Neils is located and the boys had many fine visits together.  Now, Sgt. Lawson has learned that Flight Officer Stewart L. Wilcox, who arrived overseas not long ago, is also to be assigned to the same base.

OAK CLUSTER AWARDED S. SGT. ESTES OF EMERSON

HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES ARMY FORCES IN S. PACIFIC

By the direction of the President, the Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of an additional Air Medal was awarded by Lieutenant General Millard F. Harmon, Commanding United States Army (correct) Forces in the South Pacific Area on June 1, 1944 to Staff Sergeant Clarence R. Estes of Emerson, as armored gunner from March 13 to March 25, 1944.

A bronze Oak-Leaf Cluster is awarded for meritorious achievement while participating in sustained combat operational missions of a hazardous nature during which enemy opposition is met, or during which an area is traversed where enemy antiaircraft fire is effective or where enemy fighter patrols are habitually encountered.  The missions for which the award was given were with the 13th AAF.

JORGENSEN'S RECEIVE CALL FROM SON IN HAWAII

Mr. and Mrs. Geo E. Jorgensen of Pacific Junction received a trans-oceanic telephone call from their son Jesse S.K. 2/c U.S. Navy from the Hawaiian Islands, for Mother's and Father's Day.  The San Francisco operator called at 5:30 saying we would get the call at 7:30, the same day.

KEITH HAYNIE GRADUATE FROM RADIO SCHOOL

Keith Haynie, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas L. Haynie of near Pacific Junction, graduated from Radio school at Oceanside, Calif., and now has the rating of R.M. 3/c and now has overseas address, Chas. Keith Haynie, R.M. 3/c U.S.S. Mountrail APO 213 % Fleet Postoffice, San Francisco, California.

PVT DREXEL DECKER NOW IN HOLLAND

Mr. and Mrs. Harold Decker have received word from their son, Pvt. Drexel Decker, U.S. Infantry that he is now in Holland.  Since going overseas, Oct. 3rd, he has been in England, France, and Belgium.  He has visited London and Paris, and has seen much wonderful scenery.

"G.K. HOD" IN THE INVASION

From Sgt. Neils Lawson comes a copy of the Stars and Stripes (overseas newspaper of the U.S. Armed Forces) for June 16, in which appears an article on the front page by G.K. Hodenfield.  "Hod," so the preface of the article stated, had just returned to London to pick up "a typewriter, an extra shirt and a couple of pairs of sox" to replace those lost on D-Day.  Before leaving to rejoin the forces in Normandy, he had dashed off the story which compared the beauties of England and France and gave us an amusing experience or two which he has had with the French peasants.

 PVT. ERVIN KAY HOST AT PARTY

Pvt. Ervin Kay, who has returned to Camp after spending a short furlough with his family and friends was host to a party given in his honor by Virginia Kahl and Darlene Hansen at the latter's home.

The evening was spent playing games, prizes going to Delores Jurgens, Ellen Kay, Otto Kay and Gerald Jurgens.

Refreshments were served and the patriotic decorations were carried out during the evening.

Those including the celebration are as follows:

Darlene Hansen, Virginia and Bernice Kahl, Ellen, Elsie and Otto Kay, Leo and Wallace Hansen, Bud Everett and Claude Reid, Elmer, Alice and Emma Roenfeld, Betty and Fern Roenfeld, June and Ray Kahl, Joe Krabbenhoft, Deryl Wilkins, Delores Jurgens, Gerald Jurgens and the honored guests.

LT. AND MRS. ARNO MILLER VISITED PARENTS AT HASTINGS

Lt. and Mrs. Arno N. Miller have enjoyed a 12 day delay-enroute with their parents Mr. and Mrs. Lew Miller of Hastings, Ia., and Mr. and Mrs. F.E. Benedict of Davis City, Ia.

Lt. Miller has just completed his transition training in a B-17 at Roswell, New Mexico.  He reported to Lincoln, Nebr., November 22nd, where he will receive further training.

CHIEF GUNNER'S MATE LAVERNE ROUNDS

Chief Gunner's Mate LaVerne Rounds has returned to his station at Charleston, S.C., after spending a 20 day leave with his sister, Mrs. Gerald Buffington, and other relatives.  Coast Guard Rounds has been in England, France and Scotland recently and in the last-named country spent 2 1/2 months at a base.  Earlier in his military career, he was located in Greenland.  He now expects to be sent to the south Pacific.

LLOYD GAYLORD IS COMMISSIONED

Ensign Lloyd Warren Gaylord, USNR, who has been attending Midshipman's School, at Northwestern University in Chicago, received his commission on the 22d of November.  He arrived on Thanksgiving day for a 21 day leave at the home of his parents Mr. and Mrs. Warren Gaylord.  Ensign Gaylord entered Midshipman's School on the 25th of July for general line officer's training and on completion of his leave will report at Miami, Fla., for a short period of further training.

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CHARLES GOODMAN OVERSEAS A YEAR

AN VIII AIR FORCE SERVICE COMMAND STATION, ENG.

Corporal Charles H. Goodman of Glenwood, chief mail clerk at this large fighter repair base in England, having completed a year of service in the European Theatre of Operations, is qualified to wear the appropriate overseas chevrons, two gold bars on the left sleeve.  In the case of Corporal Goodman, these gold insignia connote more than the length of his service in this theatre.   They also represent his participation in the VIII Air Force drive of the past year to repair and return to combat battle-damaged American pursuit ships.

The son of Mrs. Anna L. Goodman of Netawaka, Kansas, Corporal Goodman entered the service in September 1942.  He received his basic training at St. Petersburg, Florida, and was later stationed at Buckley Field, Colorado, before transferring, in November, 1943, to England.

Prior to entering the armed forces, Corporal Goodman was employed as a construction foreman at Fort Crook, Nebraska.  Corporal Goodman has three brothers in the service; Captain James Goodman, serving in the Southwest Pacific under Mac Arthur; Captain Clay Goodman, in England; and Staff Sergeant Scott Goodman, stationed overseas at an unknown location.

CAMP WOLTERS, TEX.

Pvt. Lacille L. Killmon, husband of Mrs. Mary Killmon of Glenwood, has arrived at this Infantry Replacement Training Center to begin his basic training as an Infantryman.  He has been assigned to a battalion stressing rifle.

T/5 ORA L. BENEDICT WOUNDED IN FRANCE

Mr. and Mrs. L.S. Benedict received a letter from their son T/5 Ora L. Benedict.  He has been wounded in France and sent back to a hospital in England.

Dear Mother and Dad,

Just a few lines to let you know I'm okay.  I am in a hospital as I wrote and told you before, and I imagine you have heard from me before this.  I'm sorry I can't write like I use to but it won't   be long now till I can do that.  Now don't worry for I am getting along fine.  I'm just lying around taking a rest, which is one way of keeping from being in a foxhole.

I haven't had any word from home since I was burned but hope to hear soon.  Give all my love to the kids and tell them I will write when I am able.  So until next time, I will say bye bye.  With all my love and prayers.

Your son, Ora Benedict.

 

S. SGT. WAYNE STRANATHAN TAKING PHYSICAL TRAINING

S. Sgt. Wayne Stranathan, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Stranathan, former residents here, now of Lincoln, Nebr., is now going to a physical training Instruction school, which is an 8 weeks course.  He will then be placed in some rehabilitation center to help build wounded boys back into condition.

Wayne also was awarded the Purple Heart and the Infantry Combat Badge.

It will be remembered Wayne was wounded in the arm the 24th day of Dec. 1944 in Germany, with Patton's Army.  He was sent to a hospital in England and it is there he is taking his training.

LT. CHEYNEY AT SPRINGFIELD, MO.

Lt. Russell Cheyney, arrived in Springfield, Missouri last Thursday morning from England, where he had been hospitalized for the past four months.

In telephone conversation with Glenwood relatives, Lt. Cheyney stated that another operation was to be performed on his arm and he didn't know at that time whether he would get a leave before the operation or not.  This will make the fifth such operation on his right arm since he was struck by a sniper's bullet in Luxembourg, January 5.

RANDALL SAWYERS AT CAMP WOLTERS, TEXAS

CAMP WOLTERS, TEX.

Pvt. Randall Sawyers, 20, son of Mrs. Mary Sawyers of Glenwood, has arrived at this Infantry Replacement Training Center to begin his basic training as an infantryman.  He has been assigned to a battalion stressing specialist training.

CHARLES TUTER AT CAMP WOLTERS, TEXAS

CAMP WOLTERS, TEXAS

Pvt. Charles William Tuter, 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Tuter of Glenwood, has arrived at this Infantry Replacement Training Center to begin his basic training as an Infantryman.  He has been assigned to a battalion stressing specialist training.

S. SGT. VIRGIL PARKS AT HOT SPRINGS, ARK.

S. Sgt. Virgil W. Parks, Glenwood, awarded the Purple Heart while 35 months overseas in Europe, has arrived at the Army Ground and Service Forces Redistribution Station in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

One of the installations of the Army Service Forces set up by the 8th Service Command, the main function of the Station is to reassign service men and women, returned from the fighting fronts to the United States under the rotation program.  The reassignments are made after careful interviews with the returnees by specially trained interviewers, many of them overseas veterans themselves, who strive to place the returnees, where their combat experiences will give the Army the greatest benefits.

 

R.B. DEACON S. 1/C ON NEW SHIP; TO FIGHT JAPS

R.B. Deacon, 20, seamen, first class, Glenwood, son of Mr. and Mrs. L.D. Deacon with other members of the crew of this sleek, new ship, is now ready to come to grips with the Japs.

Namesake of a ship sunk off Guadalcanal, this vessel is faster, larger and carries more firepower than its predecessor.  During its shakedown cruise, it won high honors for gunnery and ability to meet emergency situations.

Though preliminaries are over, drills on the ship are continued and training has been intensified.  Gunners keep their eyes sharp by daily firing the ship's bristling armor- five inches, .40 and .20 millimeter anti-aircraft batteries, and .50 caliber machine guns.

S 1/C HAROLD HAMMERS LEFT THURSDAY

S. 1/c Harold Roy Hammer left Thursday after having a 21 day furlough at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Herb Hammer.  This is Roy's first visit at home since he entered the Navy on November 11, 1943.  He has been at sea most of the time, in fact has been off his ship only three times in that long period.  The mileage which he has covered would amount to six trips around the world.

Seaman Hammer has been stationed on a destroyer which took part in the first beach bombardments of invasions.  He has been in nine invasions and two major sea battles.  His boat also encountered the typhoon last October in which four destroyers were lost.  His travels have taken him within 64 miles of Tokyo.  Roy wears a bracelet bearing the names of the 15 places of combat in which he has participated.

He has become quite interested in radio since entering the Nay, and upon his return to duty from their furlough, he may be sent to Radio School either at Treasure Island or Pearl Harbor.

FRANK FITZPATRICK ACTING SQUAD LEADER

CAMP FANNIN, TEXAS

Frank Fitzpatrick, whose home address is 409 S. Hazel St., Glenwood, has been made an Acting Squad Leader at the Infantry Replacement Training Center here.

A member of Company C. 84th Battalion, 15th Training Regiment, Private Fitzpatrick's leadership ability won quick recognition in his basic training cycle and he now leads the 12 men in his squad during field maneuvers.

He is the husband of Vicky E. Fitzpatrick.

 

JACK DUNN IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL

Jack W. Dunn, son of Glenn Dunn of Denver and grandson of A.J. Dunn of this city, was injured on Iwo Jima Feb. 1945, his arm is in splints had a cast from his waist down.  He was injured from shrapnel in cross fire from our Navy guns and Japs.  He is in a government hospital in Long Beach, Calif.  His wife, Virginia, works in the Receiving Office at Lockheed Airplane plant in Burbank, Calif.  She recently received an award check of $500 for an idea for taking care of packages in the receiving dept.  So far there has been only 5 to have received $500, she being the only girl.

ENTERTAINED FOR SON HOME FROM PRISON CAMP

Mr. W.C. Marshall and her daughter, Mrs. Keith Hopp, entertained at their home last Thursday evening for Walter Marshall, who has recently returned from a German prison camp.  Twenty-five guests enjoyed a pleasant social evening, during which there was music and a display of souvenirs which Walter had brought home.  Others from the armed forces who were present besides the honor guest were Howard Mintle and LaVerne Anderson.  A delicious lunch was served from a refreshment table appointed in patriotic colors.

PFC ROBERT BARKUS AWARDED BRONZE STAR

Pfc. Robert L. Barkus, Infantry, United States Army, was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the Japanese forces at San Manuel, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on Jan. 25, 1945, Pfc Barkus, serving as a cannoneer on an M-7 mount, displayed outstanding courage and coolness in the face of grave danger by efficiently assisting in operating and firing the mounts 105MM howitzer.  During two and three-quarter hours of assault against a well emplaced fortress, he was subjected to deliberately aimed sniper and mortar force, but through his devotion to duty and disregard for personal safety he continued to deal punishing blows to the enemy which contributed materially in destroying three enemy tanks, a field piece and the determined enemy garrison at San Manuel.  Pfc. Barkus' act greatly inspired the assaulting infantry and was a credit to the military service.  He is the son of Jennie Barkus of this city.

KENNETH MADDEN ARRIVED HOME WED.

Pvt. Kenneth Madden arrived in Glenwood on an early train Wednesday morning, just four days after he landed in the States.  In that brief period, Pvt. Madden had reported at a camp in New Jersey and at Jefferson Barracks in St. Louis.  He and Mrs. Madden were visitors in Omaha until Friday evening.

Mrs. Leota Stempel of Macedonia has been at the Madden home for some weeks caring for the older children while Mrs. Madden and youngest child, Kenneth George, were at a Council Bluffs hospital where the little boy had a hernia operation.  He has recovered and is at home again.

CONCERNING THOSE NOW IN SERVICE

WILLIAM DUNSDON WITH 33RD DIV IN PHILIPPINES

Pfc. William K. Dunsdon of Tabor, is with the Clearing Company, 108th Med. Bn. which is part of the tough veteran 33rd Infantry Division now fighting the Japs in the Philippines.

Bill is the son of Mr. and Mrs. George T. Dunsdon of Tabor.  Before entering the Armed Forces he was employed as a butcher for the safeway stores in Glenwood.  He is a graduate of Tabor High School.

Overseas for almost 2 years, he is a Surgical Technician and has charge of his own ward.  He was a Dental Assistant and assisted in the Dental Lab.

He received his basic training at Camp Robinson, Ark., from there to Camp Forrest, Tenn., and on to Fort Lewis, Wash., and the Deserts of Southern California, where his unit was polished for combat.  He has participated in two major campaigns and has seen service in the Hawaiian Islands, New Quinea, The Netherlands East Indies, and now the Philippines.  Bill wears the Good conduct ribbon, the Asiatic Pacific theatre ribbon with one bronze star for the New Guinea Campaign and the Philippine Liberation ribbon with one bronze star for combat duty.

15TH AAF IN ITALY

Cpl. Marion A. Boyer, Glenwood, Ia., has been authorized to wear a second bronze cluster with his Distinguished Unit Badge as a ground member of the veteran 451st Bombardment Group.

Boyer arrived in the Mediterranean theater in December, 1943 a member of his present B-24 Liberator group which is now commanded by Col. Leroy L. Stefonowicz, Wildrose, N.D.

FOUR GLENWOOD BOYS MET OFF MARIANAS IS.

When Cecil Ray's boat docked briefly at the Marianas one evening in mid-April; he went ashore and contacted Lts. Harry Widows and O.V. Byers, Jr., the former of whom he had to awake from a sound sleep.  The three set out to look up Sgt. Ellison Van Pelt and a real Glenwood reunion ensued until it was time for Cecil to continue his voyage.

 

Page 66

34TH DIVISION ON ITS 500TH DAY IN COMBAT

Jimmie Trimmer, son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Trimmer of this city sends clipping from Stars and Stripes written by Sgt. Jack Foisie telling of the 5th army which he is with.  It reads in part.

With the 5th Army, April 16--Even on its 500th day of combat, today, Monday, history is running true to form for the 34th Infantry Division.  They reach that half-thousandth milestone with a record unequaled by any other U.S. combat division in this war.

Will they celebrate, commemorate, or listen to a speech from their husky boss, Maj. Gen. Chas. L. Bolte?  No, they'll just go on fighting, as they've always done since D-day in North Africa.

But the men who wear the red bull patch aren't forgetting about those 500 days in the line.

"We used to gripe about how long we've been in this war," said one of the "originals."  He added:  "Five years in service for many of us.  Now it's reached the point where we're going to start boasting about it."

Death, wounds, sickness, rotation and routine transfers, have left only 20 percent of the "originals."  An "original" is a man who landed in North Ireland six overseas stripes ago, the first contingent of U.S. fighting men to reach Europe in World War II.

By the 500th day of combat, the 34th means that it has commanded a sector, with component units committed to action, for a length of time covering that many days.  No other division can make that claim.  The 3rd and the 45th Infantry Divisions come nearest.  Due to the type of fighting in the Pacific, where there are lay-overs between island invasions, even the veteran troops in that region can't claim first place.

By this reckoning, the 34th has had more days in the line than the famed 1st and 3rd Marine Divisions both put together, according to figures released by Marine Public Relations in New York.

Actual battle time of 34th Division regiments has never been figured out exactly.  Fighting outfits don't have any inclination to keep track of combat time.  But they all have around or over the 500 mark.  And the division artillery and engineers have as many as 600 days of rugged, front area living in some 40 months overseas, but, being 34th men, these supporting troops don't boast about their combat time.

As to the over-all ravages of war, last November the 135th Regiment as a whole had about 700 left of the original more than 3,000.  The 168th had only 437 left; they lost more than half a regiment at Faid Pass alone.  The 133rd, one battalion of which served until Anzio as the "palace guards" for General Dwight D. Eisenhower's headquarters in Algiers, has 1,100 originals.

SILVER CITY BOY IS DECORATED

Coxswain Cecil W. Hunt, U.S. Navy of Silver City, was presented the Purple Heart this week at the U.S. Naval hospital, Great Lakes, Ill., by Captain Ceres, MC-USN,  for wounds received off Formosa.

He entered the Navy on August 15, 1943 and during the 13 months he has served at sea or overseas he has seen action in the Marshall and Marianas Islands, Palau, the Philippine invasion and Formosa.

He wears the American Theatre, and Asiatic-Pacific Theatre (2 stars) ribbons, as well as the Purple Heart.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Hunt of Silver City.

ERNEST JAMES OF EMERSON PROMOTED TO S-T, 4 GRADE

Ernest James, RFD No. 2, Emerson, Iowa, has been promoted from Corporal-Technician Fifth Grade to Sgt-Technician Fourth Grade, it is announced by Headquarters of the Military Railway Service, Transportation Corps.

In civilian life Sergeant James was employed by the Union Pacific Railroad.  He is now serving in the Stores Department of Military Railway Service Headquarters, somewhere in Italy.

 

WALLY ELIZONDO HOME AFTER 4 YEARS

Pfc. Wally Elizondo reached Glenwood late last week, less than a month after his liberation from a German prison camp.  Wally looks quite pale and then and says he still can not eat much.  He seems to have lost his capacity for a big meal.  His brother, Daniel Elizondo and wife received a 3-day pass from Camp Gruber, Oklahoma and came to Glenwood at once for the first reunion with Wally in more than four years.

DALE CHISMORE WRITES FRIENDS FROM ENGLAND

Dr. and Mrs. A. Homer Whitney are in receipt of a letter from Dale Chismore, somewhere in England who was Principal of Junior High here a few years ago.  The letter reads in part.

Somewhere in England

March 10, 1944

Dear Doc's:

I often think of you folks and Glenwood, so often on days off I do laundry or mending, etc. Outside of tattle-tale gray, I do pretty good job of laundering.

They're keeping us pretty busy and I alternate working days and night.  However both shifts have their advantages and don't mind.

Soon I'll have five months over seas duty behind me.  I like it here in England outside of the weather.  People have treated me very nicely and have been very helpful to me in seeing some of the nice sights I have seen.  I have attended English church services several times and have been in some ancient churches, some ones 700 years old.

I have seen some nasty scars left by the Jerries here, and can well understand why these people are so determined to win.  Right now they are sacrificing plenty.  I have taken up the hobby of coin collecting and have a pretty nice collection.

I hope to get a 7 or 8 day furlough later to take a 7 day course in British Parliamentary Procedure.  Am also going to work through channels and try to get a permit to attend Parliament one of these days.  I want to go to  Oxford or Cambridge for the course in Government.

Sincerely,

S/Sgt. W.D. Chismore, ASN 37423045, 21st A.D.G.,

Sup. Div. APO 635 % P.M.

New York, N.Y.

DAVIS-KIER NUPTUALS IN SEATTLE, MAY 10

Surprising their many Glenwood friends, Miss Beryl Davis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S.C. Davis, and S.W. Kier of the U.S. Navy, son of Mrs. Nora Kier, were married Wednesday evening, May 10, at eight o'clock at the Fremont Baptist Church of Seattle, Wash.  This popular young sailor, who is called Pete by all Glenwood acquaintances, traveled the world over only to discover the girl of his dreams was a life-time friend and schoolmate with whom he resumed friendship a few weeks ago when he was sent to a Navy hospital in Seattle.  According to Pete's own testimony, it does seem odd that this couple was destined to be classmates.

Page 67

RECEPTION HELD

A reception in honor of their son-in-law and daughter, Baker 1/c and Mrs. S.W. Kier, was given by Mr. and Mrs. S.C. Davis last Thursday evening.  A general invitation had been extended through the press to friends inviting them to call from eight o'clock throughout the evening.  A large group responded to this opportunity to offer congratulations and best wishes to this popular bridal couple.

For the reception, Mrs. Kier wore her wedding suit of pink, in contrast to the naval uniform of the groom.  In the receiving line with them were parents, Mr. and Mrs. S.C. Davis, and the groom's mother, Mrs. Nora Kier.

Beautiful bouquets of flowers, which had been sent by relatives and friends, decorated the apartment.  Mrs. Orton Kier served as hostess at the door, and Mrs. Robert Davis was in charge of the gift display.

Refreshments of punch and wafers were served buffet-style from a beautiful table appointed in red, white and blue, which had been arranged by Mrs. L.A. Hollingshead.  In the center was a bouquet of red rosebuds, blue delphinium and white daisies, with tall red, white and blue tapers on either side.  Assisting hostesses who supervised the serving and the guest book were Mrs. Stanley Davis, Mrs. John W. Wright and Mrs. W.B. Eaton.

Mr. and Mrs. Burdette Anderson of Seattle, cousins of the bride, who had attended the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Kier, arrived in time for the reception.

Page 68

"HOD" DREAMS OF HOME

England, April 2

Dear Friends:

I had the goofiest dream the other night.  I dreamed I was back in Glenwood and that I was supposed to make a speech at the armory.  The place was packed (that's probably a lot of wishful thinking) and I was upon the stage ready to start talking.  It because the only times I've been on the stage at the armory have had nothing at all to do with making speeches.  Anyway, I was in trouble, which is reasonable, since I have never made a speech in my life.  I kept saying, "Well, it's this way." And that's as far as I got.

The next day I got thinking it all over.  I wondered what in the world I would have said had I been called on for a speech.  I think I probably would have had a lot of things to say about England and the people over here.  My admiration for this country and the people in it are sort of an obsession now, even to the point of knocking off for tea every afternoon at 4 o'clock.

I couldn't help thinking of the talks I used to have with Wayne up in his little room over the square, and the arguments I used to have with Howard Mintle, all on the subject of England.  I used to hate this country when I was a long way away from it.  And I wonder now just how many people feel the way I use to.

For instance, this business of England fighting to the last Frenchman or American.  Tell that to the first Englishman you see in Hyde Park, and he'll tell you about the son he lost in the Battle of Britian, and the daughter now serving in an anti-craft outfit.   And maybe his wife, whom he lost in the Blitz.  And the family down the street who were completely wiped out by a land mine.  The worse is a personal tragedy to almost any Englishman you meet anywhere, whether at a dance, a club, in a cafe or on a train.  Now wonder they resent this business of "fighting to the last Frenchman or American."

Personally, and all these are my own personal thoughts and are not influenced by anything Col. McCormick of the Chicago Tribune has to say about the Stars and Stripes.  I think Lend-Lease is one of the greatest weapons of warfare ever invented.  You've heard many times, probably, that it works both ways.  You have to be here and see it in action to really appreciate it.

There are many things that could be said along those lines.  But those are just facts, and you can prove anything with facts.  The important thing is what people think.

First, let's forget any impo-- of the British people you hear from the movies.  All Americans aren't gangsters, millionaires, cowboys, and all Englishmen --butlers, Col. Blimps, or Oxford graduates.  There are a few of 'little people' in this country and the 'little people' are always the important ones.

Now the British are reserved, and stand-offish.  That's what it says in all the guide books.  They don't warm up to people.  They don't like to mix with people, and they feel very superior.  Those are some of the things that are repeated so many times they are accepted as primary truths.  But let me tell you of something that happened to me not too long ago.  I was on the train, headed for a little English village on the coast.  I missed the right connections and therefore missed the party I was suppose to contact.  When I arrived at the village it was late at night, and in the blackout (Incomplete).

Page 69

 DORIS WILLIAMS NOW STATIONED IN CHICAGO

Doris Williams, who recently joined the WAVES, and who has been stationed at Hunter college, Bronx, New York, has been promoted to Hospital Apprentice 2/c and is now stationed at the U.S. Naval hospital, Great Lakes, Ill.

In telling of her trip from New York to Chicago, Doris says she saw New Jersey, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Niagara Falls, Hamilton Bay, Lake Ontario and many other points in Canada.

She says in her letter, "There were a draft of 49 girls sent from Hunter to the hospital.  We will be here just a few weeks to take special training in the field we were assigned.  My title of Hospital Apprentice 2/c I received upon completion of boat training.

"We left Hunter Saturday night and arrived here Sunday night about midnight.  We took a train that didn't come direct through and of course that took longer, but we got to see lots of country.  Part of the route was through Canada so you can imagine how interesting it was.

"We live in regular barracks here which are quite new and have modern conveniences.  There are very few WAVES here yet."

Her new address is Doris G. Williams, HA 2/c V-10, WAVES Barracks, U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, Illinois.

DORIS WILLIAMS IS WAVE SUPPLY CLERK

Doris Williams, who left Glenwood April 17 to enter training in the WAVES, writes the home folks that she arrived at her destination on Monday morning of last week and that she was immediately appointed supply clerk and began her new duties the following day.

Doris' new address is AS, W.R., USNTS Reg. 4, Bldg. G., Apt. 1-B. Bronx, New York, and although she doesn't have much time to write letters herself, she would appreciate very much hearing from Glenwood friends.

ANOTHER MILLS COUNTY GIRL JOINS WAACS

Miss Doris Snyder, who for the past 18 months has been employed at the State School in Glenwood, has resigned her position there and left Tuesday to become a WAAC.

She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Snyder of Percival.

JUNE EDMONDS RECEIVES CALL TO WAACS

Miss June Edmonds, who has been employed at the Glenwood State School, and who was sworn into the WAACS on April 24, has received her call and left for the Des Moines training station Thursday morning.  She will receive her basic training there and expects to be then transferred to some other station for further training.

She is the daughter of Mrs. Minnie Edmonds of this city and has received all of her schooling here except one year when she went to Atlantic, graduating from there with the high school class of 1940.

Miss Edmonds has three brothers in service.

SECOND GLENWOOD GIRL TO JOIN THE WAVES

Dorris Arlene Day, who has been employed at the Glenwood State school, was sworn in as a WAVE on Thursday of last week at Des Moines.

She is awaiting her call and will enter training at one of a number of college campuses throughout the country where the Navy Department has established special schools for these young women now serving their country at naval shore stations within continental United States.

MIRIAM PARKER NOW IN FORT DEVENS, MAS.

Cpl. Miriam Parker of the WAAC, who has been stationed at Camp Polk, Louisiana, has been transferred to Fort Devens, Massachusetts.  Her new address is Cpl. Miriam Parker, 161st WAAC Headquarters Company, 4th WAAC Training Center, Fort Devens, Massachusetts.

SERVICE MAN'S WIFE DIED LAST SUNDAY

Dorothy Marie Mayberry, wife of Glen Mayberry, who is prisoner of war in Germany, died, while on way to Bluffs hospital.

Mrs. Dorothy Marie Mayberry, 21, wife of Pfc. Glen Mayberry of Glenwood, passed away Sunday when en route to a Council Bluffs hospital.  She made her home at 1001 Harrison St. in Council Bluffs while her husband is in service.  He has been a German prisoner since the battle of Tunis in February.

Mrs. Mayberry had pneumonia last February from which she never seemed to recover fully.  She had lately developed asthma.  Her death was attributed by physicians to a heart ailment.

Survivors besides her husband are her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin C. Aita of Council Bluffs, three sisters, Mrs. Arline Knudson, Clinton, Okla., Margaret and Joan Aita of Council Bluffs; one brother Paul E. Aita of the W.S. Navy somewhere in the South Pacific.

The funeral, in charge of Beem-Belford, was held Wednesday in Council Bluffs.  Members of Pfc. Mayberry's family who were in attendance with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Shirley Mayberry, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Mayberry, Mr. and Mrs. Warren Sawyers, Mrs. Louis Mayberry and Mrs. Marvin Pierce of Glenwood, Miss Mary Catherine Mayberry, Mrs. Harold Scott and Mrs. Florence Potter of Omaha.  Among the pallbearers were two of Pfc. Mayberry's brothers and his brother-in-law, namely, Ralph Donald Mayberry of Glenwood, Clifford Mayberry and Earl Hunter of Council Bluffs.