THE

Reunion in Resort Area"Why Hyannis" - We often talked about how wonderful it would be to

hold our reunion in a resort area. When the New England Chapter wasgiven the privilege of being host to the '81 reunion this was no longer anidea but has become a reality.

THE IIIfTH IIFAITRY DI'ISIOI ASSOCIATIOI

:"....;..~

',.,.;._.:.....:_:~

All types of restaurants arenear by - whether one wishes ahamburger, hot dog or waQ.ts tofeast on lobster or sfeak.Directly across the street fromthe hotel is the "Paddock", oneof the finest restaurants on thec.2pe.

Waters of NantucketSound

There is so much one can do.Those who like to fish can godeep sea fishing on theprotected waters of NantucketSound. The vessels are CoastGuard inspected and areequipped with modernnavigational aids and fishlocating sonar. A veryexhil'arating experience is totake a cruise on the calmsparkling waters of Lewis Bayand Hyannis Harbor. There aremany points of interest alongthe way, such as HyannisYacht, the Kennedy Compound,a seaside view of Hyannisport,Dunbar's Point, Squaw Island,Egg Island and Point GammonsLighthouse.

Martha's VineyardOne might want to explore the

two delightful islands of Nan­tucket and Martha's Vineyard.Nantucket is an island ofcolonial charm with its cobbledstreets, long white beaches androlling inland moors. Martha'sVineyard known as theStorybook Island is a shoppersparadise, a blend of past andpresent. Beautiful beaches anddunes, lovely old homes, thegingerbread cottages, and thecolored cliffs of Gay Head rising130 feet above the sea makesyour visit an unforgettableexperience.

These are just a few of themany things fhat can be doneduring your stay in Hyannis.

The committee is stillworking hard on the format ofour reunion. When completedall the details will be publishedin the Octofoil.

So remember the dates. June25. 26, and 27th. The placeDunfey Hyannis in Hyannis onbeautiful Cape Cod.

RONALD V. MURPHY44 Strawberry Ln

Scituate Ma 02066

A~tinn Dues. $5.00 per veer - $1.50will be..merked to pay for the Octofoil

Sept.-Od. 1980

Hub of the CapeAfter much deliberation

Hyannis was chosen, for it isknown as the "Hub of theCape". With its own airport, ithas direct flights from NewYork, or one can fly into LoganAirport in East Boston and takE'the shuttle to Hyannis. If you flyinto Logan, remember you thenwant a direct flight to Hyannis.For those who land at Loganand don't want to use theshuttle, there is, for a re­asonable fee, limousine servicefrom the airport directly to thehotel. The people who aretaveling by bus or car will findthe roads are excellent.Bonanze Bus Lines incooperation with the GreyhoundLines run ten daily trips fromNew York City to Hyannis.From the Danbury, Hartfordarea in Connecticut there arefour daily trips. From Boston abus runs every hour.

Complete ResortYour hotel, Dunfey Hyannis,

is a complete resort withmodern and colorful rooms.There is an indoor and outdoorpool. For those who like theocean, beautiful Craigvillebeach is five minutes away.

Golfers, be sure to bring yourclubs for on the premises is anexcellent par three course witha pro shop and putting green.Tennis lovers will find outdoorcourts. For those on a healthkick there are separate spas formen and women with saunas,exercise rooms, sun rooms andwhirlpool baths. -

Anyone not wishing to leavethe hotel will find a delicious hotor cold buffet lunch served fromnoon to two thirty P.M., or youcan order a sandwich at fan­tastic Tingleys. The Silver Shellwith its famous Cape Codrecipes is well worth a visit.

Seacoast TownHyannis is a lovely seascoast

town. Within walking distanceof the hotel, you will find alltypes of shops and stores. Asyou walk along, one of thepretty sights is to watch theartists with their easels andbrushes painting portraits ofpeople.

Aerial view of Hyannis In'ner''Haroor-site for the 1981 reunion. .

June 25-27

Dates for 81Reunion

Sincerely yours,Rev. Edward T. Connors

September, 1980P.S. Even though I am officiallyretired, I am living in a rectory- and still domg parish work ­they can't get rid of me!!

St. Joseph's RectoryBarre, Mass. 01005

Boardman (Woody) Lockwooda member of th.2 !"'ort BraggMemorial Marker Committeesends a generous donation tothis fund. Shortly after theWashington reunion he wrote"Returned here without in­cident and have just now gottento the "minutes" of our ac­tivities as a committee whichare enclosed for your in­formation, submission to theBoard of Governors and noticein the Octofoil. I have sentcopies to Past President Bob ­DeSandy as he appointed us. Ialso enclose my contribution soyou can establish a "MarkerFund".

I enjoyed the reuniontremendously and look forwardto "81" and "82" (where we willdedicate the marker, I hope)and I hope to see you in Wor­cester. I thought everything atthe reunion was great.

Sincerely,Boardman F. Lockwood

72 Glenwood RoadWest Hartford,

Conn. 06107

Editors note:We realize that many of our

members will not receive thisissue of the Octofoil until longafter the 36th Memorial Massand Service but nevertheless wewanted to print Father Connorsletter that he has sent to the"troops" these past 36 years.Our last issue of the Octofoil(July-Aug) covered this storyand hopefully reached our _membership in time for them tomake plans to attend.

Place in MemorialAt the Memorial Service in

Worcester I intend to place in)ur Memorial a microfilm of thenames of those 9th Division menwho died in Vietnam. In thisway we of the old 9th will giveevidence of our high regard forthe men of the new 9th - notonly those who fought and died,but those who came home. Isuppose REAL army men willnot approve of my terminology- the "old" 9th and the "new"9th. But I use these wordsrespectfully - and withgratitude. By this ceremony ­your generation - World War IImen - will show your regardand gratitude for this youngergeneration - the Vietnamveteran. Different generations,but under the same banner,wearing the same patch - and,I believe, with the same spirit ­to work and suffer for a just andlasting peace.

God bless themAs usual, Franny Maher will

take care of your room reser­vations. Very few know howmany hours Franny has workedfor you so that you might haveproper room reservations.Franny and some of the other Kicks Off Fund Drive for Fort9th Division men are addressing Bragg Memorial Markerthese letters for me. Some of themen in this area - in the Bostonarea - meet with me frequentlydnd are a tremendous help tome, in order that we may makeproper preparations - Godbless them.

Father Connors CenterFor many years we have had

a happy get together at ConnorsCoffee Shop, at the ImmaculateConception Center on Saturdaynight. However, I don't thinkthat I can arrange anythingspecial for Saturday night. Bythe way - do you know whatthey now call the ImmaculateConception Center? "THEFATHER CONNOR~ CEN­TER." How about that? But youknow what they say - buildingsare named after you only whenyou are all done!! If I can doanything for Saturday, I shallsend another notice. But at theSheraton Inn I shQ.ll have alarge suite - very large suite ­and in the suite there will be anopen bar - so we shall have agood place to gather Saturdayafternoon and evening.

Pray togetherPlease return the enclosed

card - with your address -corrected if necessary. Get the CONGRATULATIONS TOword around. Already Franny OUR NEW PRESIDENT, BILLhas received many requests for BONGIORNOroom reservations - longbefore I got out the official wordthat we are continuing theMemorial Service. You are agreat gang - most respectful.Our 4581 comrades went off tomeet God 35 years ago andmore - and you still remem­ber. God bless you. Come along,Gang, pray together - for ourDeceased, for our Country, for ajust and lasting Peace - pleaseGod, no more wars - and prayfor one another. Every day ­every day - I remember in myprayers the men of the 9th ­and their families - theDeceased and the Living. Andpray for Old Man Connors ­officially retired - retardedand discarded. Actually, I amvery happy and grateful. Andmay all of you have the joy andpeace that God alone can give.

Volu~~_XXXV Numb~~5

4t2 G,..,orv Aw. WeehMken. N. J. 07081

36th ANNUAL MEMORIALMASS AND SERVICE

Dear Friend,

Last year on the occasion ofthe 35th Annual Memorial Massand Service I told the gang thatin 1980 there would be noMemorial Service in Worcester,because I would reach thecompulsory retirement age of75 in June, 1980, and I wouldhave no parish. However, at thesummer annual Conventionmany spoke to me about con­tinuing the Memorial Service ­they in fact implored me. So-o­0, at the banquet on Saturdaynight I made the announcementthat in some way I wouldarrange to continue theMemorial Service thisNovember. My successor at theImmaculate Conception Parish,Father McKiernan, graciouslyinsisted that I have the Massand Service in the parish church- where we have prayedtogether for many, many yearsfor our Beloved Deceased ­and prayed for a just andlasting peace. The Mass will beon Sunday, November 9, 1980, at10:00 a.m. the usualMemorial Service after theMass - and dinner at 12: 30 p.m.at the Sheraton-Lincoln Inn. Ihave sent this information toour dedicated secretary, DanQuinn. May I say this for therecord - I DID NOT WISHTHIS IMPRESSIVEMEMORIAL SERVICE TOEND - BUT I DID NOT KNOWHOW IT COULD BE DONE.For like many of you, I look onthis gathering each Novemberas a "pilgrimage" . And I was sothrilled that so many of you men- of all Faiths - are so anxiousto keep this pilgrimage alive.

All are invitedSince I had announced last

year that I would be unable tohave this Memorial Service in1980, many of the gang wouldnot expect this to continue, so­Please get the word around.Perhaps, the presidents of thevarious chapters will spread theword and also members of theBoard. - Again, all are invited- all the men of the Ninth In­fantry Division and theirfamilies - men of all Faiths ­infantry, artillery, medics,engineers, special troops ­generals and privates, men ofall rank, and no rank. Usuallymore than 500 9th Divisionpeople attend. Last year at thebanquet we had over 550 9thDivision people.

Great crowdat Washington

A great crowd at theWashington Convention - andcongratulations to theWashington Chapter com­mittees. We were honored to bepresent when Matt Urbanreceived his high award fromPresident Carter. Matt made usall proud that we served in thesame Division with this trulycourageous soldier. What a joyto have General Craig with us­this great and humble man ­and, of course, to have ourfriend, General Westmoreland,address us and inspire us. Nextyear, 1981, the New EnglandChapter will be the host. Theleaders of the New EnglandChapter are already makingpreparations for an outstandingConvention, which will be held,I believe, in Hyannis at CapeCod.

THE OCTOFOIL

1981 Reunion in Hyannis

Volume XXXV Number 5 Sept.-Oct. 1!}811

Publication No. 402X20

THE MEMORIAL FUND OF"THE 9TH IN FANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION

Scholarship Information

THE OCTOFOILForm 3579 should be sent to

412 Gregory Av.enue, Weehawken, N.J. 07087Octofoil Associated Editors

Walter-O'Keeffe and,Daniel Quinn

r,L

o

L]

4ith Inf. 2nd BD.JEROME SHAPIRO739 W. 186th StreetNew York. New York 10033

On August 28th, Mr. & Mrs.Jerome Shapiro (the Mr. wasformerly a member of the 47thInfantry for 41/2 years) becamethe proud grandparents of apretty little girL JACLYNNAMY, 8 lbs. and 20 inches long.

Hope you and yours are welland happy.

Please credit the following chapter:Philly-Delaware Valley 0 Greater New YorkIllinois 0 Washington, D.C.New England 0 MichiganOhio [J Fayetteville-

Fort Bragg, N.C.

* * *

Name - Serial No ..

Street Address .

City Zone State .

I was a member of:

Battery ; Company ; Regiment ; 9th Div

I wish to sign up for the following:

Regular Member, per year _ $5.00 CDonation Memorial Scholarship Fund , ., CTHREE-YEAR MEMBER $13.00 CLife Membership __ $50.00 []Octofoil Automobile License Disc .. : _ $ .50Decals $ .50Ladies' Auxiliary Member '" . '" .. '." .- $ 2.00 [J

Combat Route Map , : -.' $ .50.[J60th Infantry History., }jiUS p<>stag~ OOf) :. : $ .50 [J

Averale No. Copies SingJe IuueEach Iuue Dur1n& Nearest to

Precedinl12 Filing DateMonths

I certify that the statements made by me above are correct.DANIEL QUINN, Editor and Publisher. The octofoil.

(Act of OCtober 21. 1M2; section 4388, ntle 39. United States Code)1. Date filed: '9/29/80 2. Tille of Publication: THE OCTOFOIL. 3.Frequeney of luue: tii-maDtbly. 4. Location of knewn office ofpublication: 412 Grepry Ave., Weehawken, N.J. - Hudson County.5. Location of headquarters or General Buaineu Offices of thePublisher: 412GI'etlory Ave., Weehawken, N.J.· Hudaon County. a.Name and addr.. of the PubUIber and Editor: Daniel Quinn, 412Grelory Avenue, Weehawken, N.J.

1. Owner (if owned by a corporation, its name and addreu mustbe stated and also immediately 1heNU~ the namea and ad­dresses of stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of totalamount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, the namea andaddreuea of the individual owners must be aiven. U owned by apartnership or other lD'lincorporated form, ita name and address,as weD as that of each individual must be given. )

Name and address: None.8. Known bondholders, mortgalees, and other security holders

owninl or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of Bonda,Mortlales or other secmities (if there are none, 10 state):

Name and addreu: None.9. FOR OPTIONAL COMPLETION BY PUBLISHERS MAILING

AT THE REGULAR RATES (Section 132.121. Poetal ServiceManual) 39 U.S.C. 362S provides in pertinent pan: "No person whowould have been entitled to mail matter under former section 4359of this title shall mailluch matter at the rates provided under thissubsection unless he mea annually with the Poatal Service a writtenrequest for permiuion to mail matter at such rates."

In accordance with the provisions of this statute, I hereby requestpenniuion to mail the publication named in Item 1 at the reducedpostage ratea preaently authorized by 3G U.S.C. 3I2e.

10. FOR COMPLETION BY NONPROFIT ORGANIZAnONS AUTHORIZED TO MAIL AT SPECIAL RATES(section 132.122. PoauJ Manual)

The purpoae, flmetion, and nonprofit statu. of this oraanizationand the exempt status for Federal income tax purpo..

(Check ODe)

Have not changed during precedin•. 12 monthsHave changed dwinI precedin. 12 months(If changes, publisher muat aubmit explanation 01 change WIth

thia statement.)

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENTAND CIRCULATION

Dan Quinll, National Secretary, 9th Infantry Division Assn.412 Gregory Ave., Weehawken, New Jersey 07087

Enclosed please find' dVes for:

MRS. GEORGE W. SMYTHE6200 Oregon Ave., NW No. 278Washington, D.C. 20015

Written one other thank younote (with check) but I feel Imust tell you of my ap­preciation for last weekendespecially Saturday (morning,noon and night).

Major and Mrs. Alley tookgood care of me. It was verythrilling - We had good writeups in the Washington Star. It isalways good to review a little - .husband with the Ninth inEurope - son "Vietnam". I'mjust an also ran

NINTH INFANTRY DIVrSION ASSOCIATIONMEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

A. TOTAL NO. COPIES PRINTED (Net Press Run) 1500 1500

B. PAID CIRCULATION1. SALES THROUGH DEALERS AND CARRIERS, STREET

None NoneVENDORS AND COUNTER SALES

2. MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS 1346 1341

C. TOTAL PAID CIRCULATION (Sum of 1081 and 1082) 1346 1341

D. FREE DISTRiBUTION BY MAIL, CARRIER OR OTHER MEANS110 100SAMPLES. COMPLIMENTARY, AND OTHER FREE COPIES

E. TOTAL DISTRIBUTION (Sum of C and OJ 1456 1441

F. COPIES NOT DISTRIBUTED1. OFFICE USE, LEFT OVER. UNACCOUNTED, SPOILED 44 59

AFTER PRINTING

2. RETURNS FROM NEWS AGENTS None None

G. TOTAL (Sum of E. F1 and 2 - should equal net press run shown1500 1~inA)

My Heartis Comforted

Life is a road that windsamong the hills of time. Withevery trun in the road and oldview vanishes, a new one ap­pears. Life is a pilgrimage, apassage thru eternity, a journeyinto the unknown. People are astravelers on a journey.

Some pass quickly beyond thebend in the road that hides themfrom our view. Some walkbeside us all the way. Someseem to creep along and somepass swiftly as a runner. But lifecannot be measured in terms oftime, only in terms of living.

There is a unity beyond theunities of time and place - aunity that links us as one, just asall the waves are one sea and allthe Islands one earth. Does notlove link us with our friendsthough they be on the other sideof the earth. So those we lovemay pass beyond the reach ofhands, but not outside theheart.

Pete Harns26th F.A.

From theDaily Word

(Submitted byGeorge Bako)

Frank C. Proper47th Inf

May they rest in peace.To their loved ones we extendour deepest sympathy.

The many friends of FrankDuffy were shocked to learn ofhis death.

Frank attended theWashington, D.C. reunion eventhough he was not feeling well.He was an active member of theassociation and he attended thereunions and the Memorial inWorcester year after year. Hewas always at the New YorkChapter meetings and traveleda good distance every month ­good weather and bad, to bewith his pals.

Msgr. Anthon~ DeLauraformer Chaplain of the 47thInfantry cOllducted 'the funeralservices for Frank. VinceGuglielmino, George Apar,Edward Egan, Dave Gelman,Irv Greenberg, Jim Hays, BillKlauz, Matt McCormack, JohnMorris, Jim Mullens, NickPalega, John Shriffen, Art Sch­midt and Adolph Wadalavage'paid their last respects.

We shall miss him.

Tip Of The HatRemembering the Memorial

Fund and their departed bud­dies we thank the followingmembers and friends:Frank GonzolMarjone WLsmewskLMrs. George SmytheFred DLck

Marjorie Wisniewski was arecipient of a scholarship awardand wanted to show hergratitude now that she is in thefield of business. Mrs. Smythewas thrilled at the Washington,D.C. reunion to be with the "oldgang" and expressed herfeelings by writing to "MailCall" . We thank her for herextra generous contribution.

The association salutes you.

Norman DeanDLV. Hqs

***Tap.s Sounded"Somewhere afar,Some white, tremendousdaybreak and the light,Returning, shall give back

the golden hours."

With sadden heart it is ourduty to announce the passing ofthese Old Reliables.

FranCIS DuffyCo E 47th Inf

Maj. Gen. LouisA. Craig (Ret.

Rev. Edward Connors

Board of Governors1981Michael DereshPinellas Park, Fla.William BongiornoBeford, Mass.Robert DeSandySt. Clairshores, Mi.elias HopkinsFeasterville, Pa.William RobeyOxon Hill, Md.1982John ClouserCrystal River, Fla.William KlauzNew York, N.Y.Fred D'AmoreEast Boston, Mass.Martin KrasovetzGibbsboro, N.J.1983Emil LangerMorris Plains, N.J.Charles TingleySt. Leonard, Md.Edwin WisniewskiRichmond, Mich.Joseph WilliamsJacksonville, Fla.Gordon AndersonDes Plaines, III.

Board Member Emeritus

Daniel Quinn, Secretary412 Gregory AvenueWeehawken, N.J. 07087

Thomas Boyle, Treasurer39 Hall AvenueSomerville, Mass. 02144

Elmer Wagner, 2nd V.P.2833 Hotchkiss RoadBay City, Mi. 48706

Harrison DayshJudge Advocate4303 Carriage CourtK insington, Md. 20795

Nationa I OfficersPresidentWilliam Bongiorno3 Cedar Ridge TerraceBeford, Mass. 01730

Vincent Guglielmino, 1st V.P.114 Charles StreetFloral Park, N.Y. 11001

Michael Belmonte, 3rd V.P.1161 So. Lombard Ave.Oak Park, III. 60304

The Memorial Fund of the Ninth Infantry Division Associationwas established by the members of the association to commemoratethe memory of their comrades who paid the supreme sacrifice inbattle. As a part of this fund the association established a scholarshipprogram. Scholarships are awarded each year to relatives of men whoserved in The Ninth Infantry Division. Each scholarship is for oneyear.

ELIGIBILITY FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONA person who wishes to apply for a scholarship must be related to

a man who served with The Ninth Infantry Division. Children offormer members of the division will be given first consideration, butchildren of men killed in combat given first preference. Applicantswho are not children of former members of the division will not beconsidered unless no child of a former member qualifies.

APPLICAnON PROCEDUREThe following procedures must be followed by those wishing to

apply for the scholarships:1. Send a letter of application, written in expository form, to the

chairman of the scholarship committee stating the following:name, address, age, and sex of the applicant; n'ame, address, andoccupation of the applicant's parents or guardians; the name andaddress of the secondary school the applicant is attending or hasattended and graduated; the name and address of the college theapplicant expects to attend; the vocational goal of the applicant;and the name of and degree of relationship to a former member ofthe division. The unit and dates of service in the division of theformer member must be included.

2. A transcript of the applicant's high school record must be includedwith the letter of application. The transcript must include at leastthe first seven semesters of the applicant's record.

3. The applicant must have a counselor or principal of the highschool, he or she is attending write a letter of recommendation tothe chairman of the scholarship committee.

4. The applicant must take the PSAT which is given every October.The applicant must see that the results of the PSAT are sent to thechairman of the scholarship committee. These results may beincluded with the high school transcript or sent to the chairmanfrom the College Entrance Examination Board. The SAT of theCEEB may be submitted in lieu of the PSAT.

5. THE APPLICATION MUST BE SENT TO THE CHAIRMAN OFTHE SCHOLARSHIP COMMITIEE BY MARCH 15. Applicationsreceived after March 15 will not be considered.

6. All applicants must accept the decision of the ScholarshipCommittee as final.

7. Information to determine financial need will be requested by theScholarship Committee after the applications have been con­sidered.

8. Recipients of the scholarships may apply for renewal of the:scholarship each year. A copy of the student's college grades, a .financial statement, and a letter requesting renewal of thescholarship should be sent to the chairman by March 15.

9. All applications must be sent to: John J. Clouser, ScholarshipChairman, Ninth Infantry Division Association, P.O. Box 807Crystal River, FI. 32629.

Honorary Member Emeritus

The official publication of the Ninth Infantry Division Association. ­Single copy price is 25 cents per issue or by mail $1.50 per year payable inadvance when dues are paid. Dues are $5.00 per year with $1.50 of the$5.00 earmarked for six issues of The Octofoil. Members should notify theNational Secretary, Daniel Quinn, 412 Gregory Ave., Weehawken, N.J., ofany change in address.

Published six times yearly, July-August, September-October,November·December, January-February, March-April, May-June byand for the members of the Ninth Infantry Division Association. Newsitems, feature stories, photographs and art material from members willbe appreciated. Every effort will be made to return photographs and artwork in good condition.

An extract from the certificate of incorporation of the 9th InfantryDivision Association reads: "This Association is formed by the officersand men of the 9th Infantry Division in order to perpetuate the memory ofour fallen comrades, to preserve the esprit d$ Corps of the division, toassist in promoting an everlasting world peace exclusively by means ofeducational activities and to serve as an information bureau to formermembers of the 9th Infantry Division."

Copy must be received on or before the 15th of each month to guaranteepublication on the 20th.

Second-Class Postage paid at Union City, N.J. Authorized as of O~tober1, 1967.

Reunion Hi-lites

Table 41 - Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Adowski, Mr. & Mrs. Pat Morano,Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Harvilla, Mr. & Mrs. Joe Cichocki and Mr. &Mrs. Art Stenzel - all former members of Company B 47th Inf.

:1~ ..Table 30-1-r.: Mr. & Mrs. John Morris, Mr. & Mrs. WoodyCanter, Rev. & Mrs. Ralton Speers and Mr. & Mrs. Paul Clark.All from the 60th Inf.

~ " .Part of the group at the French Embassy where Matt Urban waspresented with the French Croix de Guerre.

Dates tor 81 Reunion June 25-27

Table 9 - Company F 47th Inf. -l-r.: Mr. & Mrs. Felton Jones,Frank Gonzales, Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Anderson (9th Recn.), Mr.& Mrs. Bill Hennemuth (60th Inf,) , Frank Gonzol and Mr. & Mrs.Larry Ghere.

Table 36-Company K 47th Inf. -l-r.: Herman Seibel, JohnMrugala, Mr. & Mrs. Bill Canales, Mrs. Seibel, Mrs. Glenn Hess,Mr. & Mrs. Evan Thompson and Glenn Hess.

\ '.. ....Table 39-1-r.: Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Crowder, Mr. & Mrs. JosephPodany, Mr. & Mrs. John Compagnone, Mr. & Mrs. JackDisanto and Mr. & Mrs. Ed Sarnocinski - all members ofCom an B 47th Inf.

SERVICE BATTERY26 FIELD ARTILLERY

BATTALIONIn MemoriamPete N. Harris

Thirty-Sixth Annual MemorialMass

Immaculate ConceptionChurch, 353 Grove Street,Worcester, Mass. Sunday,November 9, 1980 at 10:00 a.m.

It Is AFactIt is a fact. What we have

been anticipating has un­fortunately happened. FatherConnors has been relieved of hisduties at Immaculate becauseof advanced age. He was 75years young this past June. Thelaws of the Diocese clearly statethat a priest reaching the age of75 must retire.

There are many people who,upon retirement, retreat to therocking chair. Some pick upstakes and retire to warmerclimate. Some, who have strongties to relatives or friends inforeign lands, say good-bye tothis country.

VolunteeredFather Connors did none of

these. A very good, long timefriend of his and who is thepastor of St. Joseph's Parish,Barre, Mass. has asked FatherConnors for assistance. About10 miles from Barre, out in thefarm country, is the town ofHubbardston. The Church is amission of St. Joseph's. FatherConnors has volunteered to bethe spiritual advisor and con­fessor to the 600 parishioners inHubbardston. Father's newaddress is: Rev. Edward T.Connors, S1. Joseph's Rectory,Common Street, Barre, Mass.

The new Pastor at Im­maculate has graciously of­fered Father Connors the Im­maculate Conception Church sothat he can celebrate our thirty­sixth Annual Memorial Mass.Due to unusual circumstances,the Center will not be availablefor Saturday night.

Here-N-ThereLast New Year's Eve I

received a phone call fromChicago from Alexander HenryWilcoplski. I saw him in ­Washington this summer. Thereis no change in his life style.Manny Effron was hospitalizedlast January for a triple by-passoperation. He is not well enoughto travel a great distance. Mrs.Leeta Huber, widow of ourHarold, died of cancer in April.Harold Wallace saw Bill An­drews in Michigan and I sawBill in Washington, both thissummer. Bill has had medicalproblems and is not qwte sowell as he would like to be but isvery active.

Paul Fribush is now partowner of the store that has beenhis livelihood since school days.Pergi and retirement did notagree so he went back to work.Jim Boyle is retiring from thesteel mill at age 62. Harry Fryquit the mill 5 years ago. KesonNosek, 14522 Dennis Lane,Farmers Branch, Texas,received a phone call from DickHill. Dick was to visit Kesonthen send a note to me of theirmeeting, but Dick nevershowed. Elbert Turner is nowliving at 2607 Cheyenne Drive,Big Spring, Texas. Paul Grif­fin's family is now down to oneboy. He graduated from KentState this past June. Hisdaughter married last year andis living in Kansas City.

Waiting For YouYes - in 1981 Hyannis on

Cape Cod is waiting for you. It isnot too early for you to see yourtravel cHlent.

Joe McKenzIeService Battery

26FABnEditors note: Healizing that thisissue of the Octofoil will reachmost our members after theMemorial Mass and Service is •over we never the less' wanted toprint Joe's letter.

THE 0 C TO F 0 I l------------------------------------~·~l-----...

The bus ride from BayCity-Saginar to WashingtonD.C. as seen through theeyes of a passenger.

"Reliable" as always thirteenmembers of the MichiganChapter loaded aboard an In­dian Trails Bus at Bay City,Michigan on July 16,1980 at 1745hours. With the careful drivingof Ken Frolick we arrived at theDetroit, Michigan stop off topick up twenty-five stalwartsfrom the Detroit vicinity. Afterloading the "Red Pop" andother goodies the troops gotaboard and still under thetrained hands and alert eyes ofKen, our driver, we arrived inToldeo, Ohio where ourChaplain and his wife boarded.

Now with a full crew of 40,Ken, knowing he couldn't standthe usual quietness and staiddecorum that is the mark ofthose members of the MichiganChapter, turned the drivingover to Clarence Baber.

Heading EastWith Clarence at the wheel

and John "AI" Young and EdWisnewski in the navigator'sseat we finally found ourselvesheading East. With things goingwell and Clarence ignoring us,(had his back to us the wholetrip), things started to liven up.Don Lewis blew the pitch pipeand the singing started. Storiesflew and John Bonkowski hadhis tapes of Polish music.

Hit By StormA pit stop then back on the

highway, Clarence, calm,collected and in control of thewheel, then the storm hit. Astorm even the movies couldn'treproduce. Lightening flashing,thunder rolling and hail peltingthe bus had us all awal{e and onthe edge of our seats. I noticedClarence calm and collected atthe wheel and found, when Ilooked, he was fast asleep.Which is probably the ideal in astonn while going down acurving seven mile decent. Wearrived safe at Breesewood, Pa.for gasoline and breakfast.After stretching our legs it wasback on the bus for the finalsprint to Washington, D.C.Somehow Don Lewis lostcontrol and many of us fellasleep so that we'd be alert atcheck in time. Washington, D.C.the Michigan Chapter travellingby bus had arrived.

I a m sure there are othersmore capable then I who will bewriting about the everlts of thereunjon.

Now for the trip homeA 0700 hour deparh.:re got an

of us out of bed at an early hour,Clarence had the bus cleanedand ready for our departure. Onboarding we found he had icedall the "Red Pop" ready for usto sample. 0700 hours was toclose to the end of some ofSaturday nights parties so the"Red Pop" continued to getcold.

Picture TakingAstop at Breesewood, Pa. for

breakfast got us all together inthe bright dining room ofHoliday Inn. After a bus sidepicture taking session it was allaboard once more.

I don't know if it was theprayers said by Floyd Hen­nessey, our Chaplain, or not butthe trip back seemed not toinclude the same people thatwent to Washington. They allpreferred to sleep, read or talkin soft voices.

Whoop it upWhen we reached Toledo,

Ohio our Chaplain and his wifegot off. I thought then, with theChaplain gone we'd whoop it up.Then Floyd pulled a dirty trickon us. He appointed Don LewisAssistant Chaplain and put himin charge.

B.ODGER E. ALSGAARD.President

Michigan Chapter8162 Green Valley Drive

Grand Blanc, Mich. 48439

.H.aiders. Swinging southwardafter the capture of Wollseifen,the 47th seized this massivereservoir, first of the Roerdams to fall. The stage was setfor final assault upon the Riveritself.

Mortar fires on German Positions East of Hofen, GermanyL.R,-Lyman, F. Brunk and Roger H. Freimark both of the 39thInfantry. (Dated Feb. 4, 1945)

Tom Egan sends this photo taKen at Camp Elsenborn,November 1944. L to R: Capt.. J.D. O'Rourke C.O. Hqs Co'9thDiv., Capt Tom Egan ADJ Special Trps., Sgt Frank Vives, 1stSgt. Hq Co Div. Hq. young leaders, who were to ruleRED-LETTER DAY his conquered world, doughboys

To the north, the 47th Infantry set up machine guns and firedadded towards making at retreating Nazis across theFebruary 4th a red letter day in UrftRiver. Fitting, indeed, wasNinth History. Much sought the end of this tyranical symbolUrftlesperre Dam, objective of - destroyed by freedom-lovingtwo Corps during four bloody Americans.months of fighting, feU to the COIli.:nued next issue

This turreted old pile stands ona bluff 700 feet high just east ofDreiborn, seven and a halfmiles east of Monschau, and itdominates a highway runningnortheast from Dreiborn.

- Harold Denny­Times)

Charles Dusky, Company B 60th Infantry sends this picture ofhis squad "somewhere in Germany". He writes "The photo wastaken and given to me by my buddy "Doc" Combat medic of B

Co." Last week no superman struttedLONG COATED PRISONERS in Burg Vogelsang. The castle'sGrena de-wearing GI' s 4-ft. walls echoed only the

escorted caravans of long- snores of weary G.I.s and thecoated Jerry prisoners over the clatter of the U.S. 9th InfantryWeasel-tracked roads leading Division's mess kits.out of Dreiborn. In the opposite - TIMEdirection, the Ninth pushed Rising out of the iced, blackeastward over the slushy road. waters of the Urftstalsee are

An armored threat against steep, ball-topped mountains.the 39th Infantry, 'South of 'Midst the floating layers ofHerhahn, was brokenup by 9th stringed-fog, A. Hitler built hisand 2nd Divartys within range. Ordensberg... School forThe AAA-o repulsed a counter- Fuehrers.attack a bit later, using The first of a series of Leaderbazookas, anti-tank guns, and Schools, Ordensberg Vogelsangagain calling for artillery. had a strange, mythologicalFollowing up their success, they atmosphere, characteristic ofchased the Heinies out of Wagnerian music.Morsbach, at the base of the Climaxing a magnificent day,Urft River, turntng the German Raiders beat their way intocounter into a German rout! Vogelsang, capturing an enemy

As the Nazis tried to escape regimental command post inthe 39th Combat' Team's L opef-ation, complete with ad-Company, riflemen took up jutant and sergeant major.positions on high ground and Pressing upward to the citadelfired everything in the book at of Naziism, the regimentthe retreating Germans. Scenes grabbed famous Ordensbergreminiscent of shooting gallery Vogelsang.days occurred as the enemy On the very balcon~ w~eretried to withdraw over the river. Hitler had addressed InspIred

••~H"£;

Traveling down road ofhistoryto the tront ana uanKS toas'certain enemy dispositionsand strength. Preparationswere instituted for futureoperations.

REGROUPFORAN ATTACK

The Ninth had found defense anew sensation, as it wasgenerally considered an assaultdivision. Finally, on 29 January,from the Division C.P., vicinityof Kalterherberg, Germany,came orders to regroup theNinth .. , for an ATTACK! TheAllies were going to give vonRundstedt a lesson on how toreally breakthrough!

ROER-TO-RHINEThree more First Armydivisions - the Ninth ,99THand Second - jumped into theassault on the Siegfried linetoday and made advances up tofour miles in bitter cold anddeep drifted snow. By nightfallthe fixed Siegfried fortificationswere only about three miles.

- Stars and StripesThe Ninth Division pushed oninside Germany to Widdau, onthe Roer east of Monschau.

- Austin Bealmear - APElements of the U.S. Nintt.Division were converging fromthe northwest on the roadjunction of Wahlerscheid, fivemiles southeast of Monschau,which the Americans won in abitter fight last December, justbefore the opening of theGerman Drive.

-Boyd D. Lewis-UPThe time had come. With the

defeat of the German counter­offensive, American mightfixed its sights upon the Rhine.Tremendous obstacles, such asthe Roer Dams, stood in tway. Snow was upon theground, and when it melted, thediscovery of debris andshrapnel rising out of the roads,caused a serious tire problem.It wasn't going to be easy ... butwhat infantryman has it easy?

When 30 January rolledaround, the Ninth attacked,advancing towards Rohren,with the 60th Combat Teamleading. The Wehrmachtcounter-attacked, but tanks andTDs broke-up the enemyassault, and the first town of thenew drive was taken.

January ended as E Companyof the 60th captured Widdau andthe Raiders cleaned out fixedfortific,ations - a specialty oftheirs.

RELENTLESSLY PUSHINGIt was the beginning of

February, but the doughs upfront weren't bothering aboutthe date! Relentlessly pushingto the east, Ninth infantrymencaptured the key road junctionat Wahlerscheid and the highground to the north. Despitedeep snow, enemy minefields,and severe hand-to-handfighting, the 39th reduced 12pillboxes and 20 log bunkers;while the 60th Infantry clearedout a wooded area on theDivision left flank. Then the47th breezed onto the highground east of the main Hofen­Wahlerscheid road.

The Wahlerscheid roadjunction being cleared, the 2ndInfantry Division was able tomove north and attack east­ward, abreast of the Ninth, on 2February.

Drifted snow added wearinessto the limbs of the Ninth as itnavigated dark MonschauForest and engulfed Dreiborn.Excellent coordination of theDivision's combat teams led tothe swift capture of Dreiborn,Einruhr, and the importantcrossroads at Herhahn.Troops of our Ninth InfantryDivision waded the icy watersof medieval moats today andinto a fourteenth-century castleto trap a German garrisontrying to block their progressthrough the Siegfried Line ...

part fourThe Final ThrustThe story of the

Ninth Infantry DivisionContinued

Meanwhile, the much-travelled 60th Combat Teamwas ordered to join the 2ndArmored Division. In the coldDecember weather, travel wasdifficult. Snarling of traffichalted the Go-Devils, and in­stead, Col. Van Houten's menrejoined the Ninth on 23December.

With the return of the 60th, thedivision was regrouped. The Go­Devils assumed control of anarea at the road center north ofMonschau.

THIRD CHRISTMASOVERSEAS

There was little activity in thedivision sector on ChristmasDay, but patrols were activeand positions improved.Thoughts winged their wayhomeward - of warm fires, thefolks, the little woman, the kids.In miserable holes, chopped outof the frozen ground, the Ninthwas spending its THIRDCHRISTMAS OVERSEAS.

For the remainder of 1944, theenemy sent over harassing andinterdictory fire. He droppedbombs on the 60th, but hisstrength was waning frombattering against the Ninth'sstonewall.

January blew in, with theNinth Infantry Division holdinga line from the road centernorth of Konzen to the highground east of Elsenborn. NewYear's Eve had been spentunder scattered enemy artilleryand mortar fire.During the month of Januarythe outstanding problems ofsupply and evacuation were dueto deep snow and freezingtemperature. The non­availability of winterizingequipment made improvisionnecessary. Snow plows,toboggans, felt innersoles andcamouflage snow suits weremade by service elements of thedivision. Charcoal was obtainedfor front-line troops to burn inimprovised stoves. Raw woolfound in local felt manufac­turing plants was used to linefoxholes.

-Ninth DivisionReport of Operations

AMERICAN INGENUITYYes, American ingenuity was

at work! The 709th Ordnancerushed to fabricate snow plowsand tractor grousers and issuedPrestone. In addition to theirother duties, the 15th Engineersopened and operated a car­pentry shop and a dressmakingshop, turning out toboggans forlitters, cargo and machine­guns; and snow suits for theinfantry. And, in the midst of allthat snow, 603,700 gallons ofwater were distributed to themen of the Ninth!

A diversionary attack againstthe town of Konzen was madeby the 60th Infantry on 3January 1945, and 60th at­tachments laid 1000 mines infront of the 38th CavalrySquadron. At the same time,while-clad patrols of the 39thand 47th Regiments kept theGermans notified that the Ninthwas still very much there.

As the patrolling continued,Kalterherberg, Monschau,Konzen, Imgenbroich, Hofen,Heisterhaus, Hohe Mark, andMenzerath shivered in the deepsnow. In the foxholes and im­provised shelters, the Ninthheld out against blizzards,trench foot, frostbite, and burstof Jerry artillery.

In the terrific blizzard thatpersisted on January 19th,reports came of the enemy'sretreating to the east. Next day,patrollin~ vigorously increased

THE OCTOFOIL

Sincerely,Fred M. Josey Secy.

8162 Green Valley Dr.Grand Blanc, Mich.

48439313-694-6108

TO "B" (47th)OR NOT TO "B"

Alright, all you "no show"BECO members who didn'tattend the Washington, D.C.Reunion - you're forgiven ­after all, not being with us waspunishment enough!

The official count of BECO47th members who did attend ­totaled 17 among the highestunit representations at the 9thDivision Reunion. They were

Nick and Olga Palega ~Queens Village, N.J., Stan andFlorence Adowski - BuffaloN.J. Jack and Kay DiSanto ~Burlington, Vermont, Ernie andNina Crowder - Raleigh, No.Car., McAdoo White - StateRoad, No. Car., Pat and AnnMorano - Chambersburg, Pa.,Dennis E. Canedy - NewBritain, Ct., Joe and EdithPodany - Minneapolis, Minn.,Bill Klauz - New York City,N.Y., Joe and Stella Cichocki­Philadelphia, Pa., Orion andEleanor Shockley - Bellevue,Wash., Ed and Helen Sarno­cinski - Chester, Pa., John andKathy Compagnone- Netcong,N.J., Joe and Rose Harvilla ­Cardale, Pa., Art and GraceStenzel - Westbury, N.Y.

"BRAVE MEN"Now, do the names of the

-"BECO" Men "ring a bell"? ­they should as they appear inErnie Pyle's famed book"Brave Men". '

Lawrence McLaughlin,Boston, Mass. OrionShockley, then of JeffersonCity, Mo. - Joe Palajsa, Pitts­burgh, Pa. - Arthur GreenAuburn, Mass. - Dick Medici:Detroit, Mich. - James GilesAthens, Tenn. - Art Slageter:Cincinnati, Ohio - Bob EdieNew Philadelphia, Pa. - Be~Rienzi, New York City - BobHamilton, Philadelphia, Pa.and Joe Metscavage,Shenandoah, Pa. - After catch­ing the replaying of "G.I.Diary" which depicted life ofthe infantrymen, personallyexperienced by CorrespondentErnie Pyle, I secured thefamous book from my library ­the men mentioned named inthe chapter on "StreetFighting" (pg. 399-403) LaterLt. Giles was killed and BobHamilton "passed on"stateside.

HUH? HUH?How's about an update on the

rest of you men - Huh? - Huh?- Huh?

Mail CallMail call brought a note from

George and Jane Bentleyregretting they couldn't attendthe Reunion, and, oddly enough,telling of their recent pursuit inlocating Slageter and Edie.- Another letter arrived fromHarry "Red" Browne, down inMechanisburg, Pa. "Red"retired some 5 years ago and isa strong advocate of his newway of life.- A recent letter from Pete andNettie Mastrangelo broughtabout a long overdue visit to ourgood buddy on Oct. 8th - BigNick and Olga Palega andGrace and I spent a most en­joyable day with our hosts - Wemen reminisced happeningsfrom Ft. Bragg till our returnhome so if your ears wereringing it's because we men­tioned your names in our talk­fest.- Pete never allowed ourglasses to empty and Nettiespoiled us with a most deliciousItalian dinner, a culinarymasterpiece and a caloricdisaster - 'er, calories? ­what's a calorie? Bella! Bella!Nettie.-Pete was a Sergeant in our fo­urth platoon mortar squad ­now retired some 8 years after31 years with the Post Office.The "Mastrangelo's" reside at2465 Tratman Avenue, Bronx,N.Y. 10461.

- Again, Pat did a superb jobwith his coverage of the"BECO" family at theWashington, D.C. Reunion. Iknow Pat and Ann will bemaking the annual WorcesterMemorial Mass and, hopefully,many other "BECO" coupleswill be able to attend. Un­fortunately, Grace and I will notbe able to be with you as we'vesold our house - again! Andshould be in the process of ourmove to Florida at that time.

Holiday Season- I find it hard to believe we'reentering the holiday season of1980 alr~ady.

- So to all our "BECO" menand their wives and familiesand to all the "Octofoil" readerswe wish all a very MerryChristmas and a happy andhealthy New Year!

Art Stenzel179 Salem Rd.

Westbury,N.Y.11590Michigan Happenings

The Michigan Chapter heldtheir regular meeting on August23, 1980 at the home of Ed andMargaret Wisniewski at Rich­mond, Michigan. There were 36members, wives and guests inattendance. The past issue ofthe Octofoil covered all aspectsof the Reunion in Wash. D.C.and the members of theMichigan Chapter were wellpleased with the overall resultsof this Reunion and are lookingforwar'd to Father ConnorsMemorial Service on SundayNov. 10, 1980 and also the up­coming gathering of the Illinoisand Michigan Chapter's atAngola, Indiana hosted by theIllinois Chapter. Chuck Koskiehas made all the arrangementsfor this gala affair and a verylarge turn-out is being expectedfrom both Chapters and alsosurrounding members of the 9thDiv. from Ohio and Indiana.

Nominate OfficersAt this August meeting the

nominating committeepresented the following list ofnames for the officers for thecoming year 1981 of theMichigan Chapter - PresidentCharles Williams, 1st V.P. BillieMartin, 2nd V.P. Tom Saun­ders, Leonard DeBell, ErwinSchmidt, Secretary RodgerAlsgaard, Treasurer ElmerWagner, Chaplain FloydHennessey, Rodger Alsgaard,Historian Floyd Hennessey, andAdjutant Don Lewis. Thenominations are still open andwill be until voted upon at theDecember meeting.

Charlie Fox reported that theChristmas Party would beSaturday Dec. 13th, 1980 at theAlger-Hoffman V.F.W. Post No.393, 11350 E. McNichols (6 MileRoad) Detroit, Mich. Any 9thInf. Div. Members who may bein our Area at that time arewelcome to come and partywith us.

The Bottle Raffle was won byAudrey Bruner and she donatedit right back to the chapter.

Pot Luck DinnerThe wives all pitched in and

brought a pot luck dinner whichwas enjoyed by all. A nice socialtime together followed.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY­It is never the wrong time to dothe right thing.

7090rd.RAY KENNEDY413 Stratton Lane,Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206

Just a note to say Hello. Imust say that I have never seenan affair to compare to theMemorial Mass. John Kowalskiand I attended for the first time.Where were all the guys fromthe 709th Ordnance? There wasalways a gang from the Bostonarea. I hope to make the nextone which I hear they are goingto have.

ILLINOIS CHAPTER NEWSFourth Outing

As we prepare thisnewsletter, the Illinois andMichigan Chapters are lookingforward to our outstategathering in Angola on October17-18. It should be a successfulreunion as we already haveforty room reservations andthere may be more which weremade direct to the Holiday Inn.This will be our fourth annualouting. We will give a full reportin the next issue.

We will be minus one of ourmembers this weekend. Bill andPeggy Hennemuth will begiving their daughter, Martha,away in marriage on thatSaturday only three monthsafter their first daughter tiedthe knot. We wish the happycouple all the luck in the world.Sorry we can't be with them tocelebrate.

We also heard from Doris andRoger Elmer who will be goingto Texas to visit one of theirsons and his family. They sendtheir good wishes for a happyand successful get together. Weheard from Cecil Lacic, thewidow of Joe Lacic, and shesends her best to the gang butregrets that she cannot join us.

Sad NewsWe received some sad news

from Mrs: Proper. She in­formed us that her husbandCorp. Frank Proper, 47th ~Infantry, passed away at a VAhospital in August. He was 65years young and was a victim ofcancer. Our deepest sympathyto the Proper family.

Best WishesOur best wishes to John

Clouser for a speedy recoveryafter surgery a short time ago.We hear he is doing fine andplans to be in Angola.

Beautiful TraditionWe are happy Father Connors

will have his Memorial Massagain this year but at thiswriting do not know who will begoing to Worcester from theIllinois Chapter. We have heardthat the Lew Gray's plan to go.God Bless you Father Connorsfor continuing this beautifultradition. You are always in ourprayers.

Happy Thanksgiving to alland as soon as our outstategathering is over, we will beginplans for our Christmas Party.

Respectfully submitted,Michael and Ann Belmonte

1161 Squth Lombard AvenueOak Park, Illinois 60304

mail callContinued from page 6

Anti-Tank 47th Inf.ROGER J. GARTLAND255 Charles StreetWatertown, New York

Enclosed is the amount formy 1981 dues. It is good to knowthat several retirees are joiningthe association for first time.

The Washington reunions wasan enjoyable event for both ofus. To meet several of thosefellows from the Anti-Tanksection of the 47th was a joy. Iwas their Medic fromDecember 44' to May 45'.

Dan, please send Octofoilafter November 1st to 706 LakeMarianna Road, AuburndaleFlorida 33823. '

26th F.A.BEN A. ATKINSON5401 Pineland RdRichmond, Va. 23234Enclosed is my membershipdues. I was in Washington, D.C.in July on Saturday. I saw acouple of men from the 26thF .A. I've lost contact with someof them, would like to hear fromthem! Would like to get incontact with Chester Fairchilddo you have his ad<hess? 'I enjoy the paper vzry much.Editors note: The secretary'soffice does not have Chester'saddress perhaps a member canhelp Ben.

Co. L, 47th Inf.CARLTON T. HALEYRt. 9, Box 134R,Reidsville, N.C. 27320

Just a word or two to say Icould not attend the reunion inWashington. I am almost housebound from service connectedconditions. To all the disabledveterans of the Vietnam war Iam glad they have Mr. StanPealer to help them get someoverdue benefits that are duethem. I just cried when I sawthe President give Matt Urbanthe medal of honor he so muchdeserved. If you put this in theOctofoil, to all the remainingvets that were in the 47th Inf.tent city at Ft. Bragg 1940-1941 Iwould like a letter or card fromthem. I only live about 85 milesfrom Ft. Bragg and I had acouple of good buddies fromDanville, Va. my home town,who never made it back. But Idid talk to one of the wives inDanville. Her husband is buriedin France. Here in Reidsvillethere is a chapter of the 5th Inf.who helped out the 9th inEurope. I have talked to Col.Randall Bryant, Ret., in Miami,Fla. by phone two or three timesplus a couple of letters fromhim. When I came back fromEurope in Dec. 1944 on theQueen Mary and saw the Statueof Liberty I cried with joy to beback on the soil of the UnitedStates. I have been in the V.A.Hospital over 8 yrs. since then. Ihave been treated real nice,good, fair and very poorly overthe stays. I am 100 per centservice connected and the V.A.has been real good to me. Mywife and with what help I couldgive have raised 4 children, 3boys and 1 girl. My oldest son isa chief Petty Officer in theNavy. He has 12 years of ser­vice. One of my sons is in theMarines and is about to com­plete 3 yrs. He says he has hadenough. The girl and other boyare doing real well in life.Enclosed is check for dues andother items, also something forthe Memorial ScholarshipFund. In closing, to allveterans, please vote for theperson that will help allveterans for benefits theydeserve, and say a prayer for alonesome person - me. I pray forall the nations everyday to haveand make peace so we will notbe maimed again.

Co. B 60th Inf.THOMAS J. LORELLO753 Rockaway Ave.Valley Stream, N.Y. 11581

I am sorry for the delay inforwarding my membershipdues. I was hospitalized withback trouble which also can­celed my visit to Washington,D.C. and the reunion with mybuddy George Cyphers fromCleveland, Ohio who was one ofmy men in the 1st Squad. I hopeto be able to make other reu­nions - If not, at least I canread about them in the Octofoil.

Co. F. 47th Inf.STANLEY PUTI'199 Quincy Ave., 'Kearnt, N.J. 07032

Everything is fine with ourfamily - all enjoying goodhea~th. Thank God. I -fionallydeCIded to retire the first of theyear. Worked for 35 years forthe Sherwin - Williams Co. so Ithought that was long enough.Plan on taking life "easy", dosome fishing and gardening.Say hello to all for me and givemy best toMarie.P.S. Hello fromGloria.60th Inf.MERTON BEEBE176 East Robbins Ave.,Newington, Conn. 06111Dear Dan

I'm late again in sending inmy dues for the coming year soI am enclosing my check. I havebeen ailing a bit with my healthand am recovering from acataract operation to one of myeyes. However I am feeling a bitbetter as of late.

Co. K, 47th Inf.GEORGE NICKLIN, M.D.6 Butler PlaceGarden City, L.I.,N.Y. (11530)

It was a great pleasure to seethe award of the CongressionalMedal of Honor to Matt Urbanin the most recent issue. I amsure he more than earned it.

As a medic with the Forty­seventh Infantry Regimentfrom October, 1944 throughFebruary, 1945, during all thefighting around SchevenhutteLangerwehe, the Battle of th~Bulge, and, after that, on theRoer Dams and at HurtgenForest, I was always impressedby the routine way in whichNinth Infantry Division men did?rave and courageous fightingm combat for which no medalswere ever awarded. It seemedto be standard operatingprocedure and was order of the?ay. During that time, one manm my company received theCongressional Medal of Honor(Carl V. Sheridan), but he waskilled doing it at FrenzenbergCastle, so I was especiallypleased to see Matt Urbanreceive his well deservedmedal.

Co. G 47th & FinanceMARTIN J. GILL2401 Pennington RoadTrenton, New Jersey 08628

On behalf of Leonard Skaalenof Harmony, Minnesota, I ampleased to forward the enclosedcheck for a three year mem­bership dues payment in theNinth Infantry DivisionAssociation.

Len, like myself, was with GCompany, 47th Infantry, andthen later transferred to theFinance Section, DivisionHeadquarters.

Peg and I had the pleasure ofspending the past weekend withRachel and Len Skaalen andMargaret and Kenneth Carrollin Minneapolis. The weatherwasn't the best but we still had awonderful time in an im­pressively beautiful revitalizedcity. Carroll is also a formermember of the Finance SectionDivision Headquarters and no~lives in Annandale, Virginia.The Skaalens are the owners ofthe Harmony State Bank inHarmony.

Kindest regards to Marie and.yourself.

Co. F. 60th InI.ALAN M. JOHNSONVista Del Mar2333 Costa Verde Blvd., Unit 202Jacksonville Beach Florida32250 '

I became a member a yearago, but have moved twice inthe ensueing 15 months. Theaddress above is my currentone.

I was Company Commanderof company F, 60th infantryfrom about August 8, 1944 toFebruary 16, 1945.

The last Octofoil I receivedwas May-June '80. If I havemissed any, and you have anyplease send me what I hav~missed in all this moving!

F Co. 60th InI.PHILIP BERMAN1620 Anniston Ave.Holly Hill, Fla. 32017

Am sending along somenewspaper clippings of MattUrban's Medal of Honorawards. Thought you may wantthem or if Matt wants themsend them along to him. '

Sorry I di.dn't get toWashington, D.C. for the l(:.streunion. My car broke downfive miles outside of town, andmy vacation came to a skiddinghalt. Perhaps next year, at thenext convention. Maybe theFlorida delegation will hire abus which seems to be thesensible way to go.

Till we meet again - regardsto all.

ReunionJune 25-27

The deadline for copy of the next Issue of theOctofoD wW be December 20th.

L Co., 39th Inf.C. E. (BUCK) MILLER216 Bissell Ave.Oil City, Pa. 16301

Recently I re-enrolled in theA.ssociation and mightly glad IdId. I am sorry I missed the 1980con~ention in D.C. but otherbusmess prevented this trip. I~eep reading and re-readingIs~ues of the Octofoil hoping IWIll see a familiar name but todate No Luck. Served withCompany L, 39th AAA-O, as aplatoon sergeant. Joined theFalcons in Africa near Algiersat a time when "BedtimeCharley" was our onlyreminder that a war was beingwaged. Saw action in Sicilythe? . back to England andtrammg at Andorf, and thenthrough Europe to the bitterend. Married and the father ofthree children, grandfather oftwo. beautiful girls, I amASSIstant Advertising Managerfor Quak~r State Oil RefiningC?rp. at ItS home office in OilCIty, Pa. I am active in theAmerican L:egion, havings~rv~d in all local, county anddlstr.lCt offices, Past FaithfulNaVIgator of the FourthDegree, Knights of Columbus'usher, commentator, treasurer:m~mber of executive com­mItte~, member of parishcouncIl, fund raising directorpresident of Holy Name Societyf~r St. Joseph's church in OilCIty; daubled slightly in politicsa~d member of the City of OilCI~y Building Appeals Com­mIttee; and belong to a number~f other organizations. WouldlIke to hear from all formerbUdd~es in Company L. IpromIse to write and if possiblearrange for a reunion.C.O. 2nd Bn 47th Inf.LOU GERSHENO:WI3200 Morlock LnBowie, Md. 20715

Thanks so much for helping tomake our reunion sopleasureable as well asmemorable. It certainly was forme. I shall never forget; for itwas the first time since I wasc~ptured - 37 years ago ­sm~e I saw our men and to meettheI: lovely wives, to exchangestones, to mingle with them andto enjoy the camaraderie - andlast but not least to be adopted'by. "F" com~ny47th Infantry!

Enclosed IS my applicationand contribution to thescholarship fund.

Marie thanks so much foryour help.

Till we meet again -P.S. About whether theassociation expands or not - I~nclos~ a copy of AUSA News10 which reunions are notedYou will note that there is a 23rdInfantry Korean War Branch ofthe 2nd Div. Assn. - this is whatt?e group can do if they don'tlIke what we have now - starttheir own.

Co. L. 60th In£.JOHN E. KNIGHTLY12 Eden StreetLudlow, Mass. 01056

Sending my check for my 1981membership dues.- I amheading for Florida the last ofOctober for the winter. My wifedied July 18th. She had cancer.

Sorry I won't see you at theMemorial Mass in Worcester.

God bless you all.

THE 0 C T 0 F 0 I L Publication No.

412 GreCP'Y Ave Weehawke". N. J. 07081. 402~20Second·Class Postage paid I u· C"a noon Ily. N. J. Authorized as of October 1. 1967.

CoDtiDaed. p... 5

Wbea was the last time you wrote a letter to ourMaD Call Column?

60th InfBONNIE L. SEBOCK(AL SEBOCK)14211 S. MackinawBurnham, Ill. 60633

The Washington Chapter hasno claim to fame for the bigturnout of the 9th DivisionConvention. Let's give creditwhere it is due.

Matt Urban was the bigdrawing card and the one andonly reason for the largestconvention ever. It could havebeen anywhere and it would ­have been big because of MattUrban.

I thought the banquet was an~trocious affair. Never in my~Ife have I witnessed such pettyJealousy as the WashingtonChapter showed by their shabbysnobbishness to the greatestHero in the United States.President Carter awarded Mattthis greatest honor and he wasproud of him. But not the men ofthe Washington Chapter. Mattshould have have been the mainattraction at the speakers'platform. For He was the oneeveryone came to see and ad­mire. If we the people of the sixfront row tables had known theoutcome of this farce we wouldhave gotten up en-masse andmarched out of there.

Their treatment of Matt wasinexcusable and never to beforgotten or forgiven.

We love and honor Matt andare proud to be his friends.

Why? Anyone would want tos~op Walter Victor from takingpIctures at the banquet isbeyond belief. Everyone will besadly disappointed not toreceive the beautiful pictures heso graciously took the time andeffort to send to people. Wer~ally enjoyed getting thosepIctures so we could have fondmemories of good times past.Hope our good ole picture~napper will be able to operatem Mass. in 1981.

Let's hear it for Walter.

A Battery 84th F .A.ANTHONY G. KREMKA407 W. Marion StreetPortage, Wi. 53901

When the 9th DivisionAssociation was organized Ibecame a member through theNew York Chapter. After a fewyears I dropped out, and lostcontact with some of my fellow"Adams Apples". I do see Ray(Snaggle) Knerr when I go Eastto see my children, and it wasthrough Cal Polivy sending mea copy of the Octofoil that Idecided to renew my mem­bership, and to have one sent toRay Knerr too. As I now live inWisconsin and Ray lives inPenndylvania, I don't think thatwe can credit any of the localchapters. We would both bevery satisfied with geeting onthe Octofoil mailing list and~aybe getting some decals andlIcense discs. Here are theaddresses to send the paper to:Anthony G. Kremka (Curly)4O! W.. Marion St., Portage:Wlsconsm 53901 and RaymondKnerr (Snag-gle), 1227 WestRosemont Drive, Bethlehem,Pa. 18018. Both of us are formermembers of A. Battery, 84thF.A.

THE OCTO'OlL

A Co. 15th Engrs.HENRY SANTOS9701 N 48th St.·Tampa, Fl. 33617

Hope this finds you and yoursin the best of health. My wifeand I are just getting to thepoint where we can start catch­ing up on correspondence etc.The addresses you gave mebore fruit in three cases one ofwhich. was at the con~ention.Bob "DOC" Hughes movedfrom the address you had 21 yrs.ago, but a brother letter carrierin Louisville went beyond thecall of duty to bring us together.Bob is very proud of Kentuckyhe and Lois gave us a grand to~of the area, a lovely weekend.Ray "KOKOMO" Ulerich wasanother story. I found him aftersev~ral p.hone calls. He is cityengmeer m Kokomo, Ind., cameacross town and we were able tochat quite a while. I gave himall the info on the conventionand thought sure he'd be there.I'll have to follow up on Ray.

We traveled thru 19 statesbefore the convention and 14 onthe 2nd phase with a great big<?CTOFOIL pointed on the sparetire cover on my trailer. Only 1fellow from N.Y. noticed itoutside of D.C.

The convention was great tillSunday morning when Idiscovered a raid had beenmade on my wagon in the hotelgarage. I was under the im­pression there was a 24 hr.security. Oh well c'est Ieguerre.T~e enclosed photo might be

of mterest and bring backmemories of Mctadden's pondat Bragg. The Lord cablewaytaken in early 1942.

Part TwoQuite a few feathers were

ruffled at the general meetingconcerning 9th Div. men whoserved after 1945 who for somereason want to join ourassociation. As you know it gotto be quite a "HOT POTATO"and is sure to raise it's uglyhead again. Had FrannyMaher's motion to amend thename carried it might havesaved a lot of hassle. I'm all infavor of the post WW2 9thhaving an association as we dobut to join with us old fogieslet's ask a few questions.

What do we ha"e in common?Most of us are at least 10 yearsolder than the men who servedin the Korean War.

The Vietnam Vets? Few wereeven born when we had our fouror more years in the service.

Were our enemies orstrategies or terrins the same?Etc., Etc.

Would these fellows reallyhave enjoyed the Saturdaynight music of Glenn MillerArtie Shaw, Benny Goodma~etc.?

I doubt we could get a trulyaffirmative answer to thesequestions, there must be anulterior motive most of us aretoo dense to see.

I'm sure I'm not alone inhaving the greatest respect andadmiration for GeneralWestmoreland who did not hidehis feelings in the matter. I feelthat if he wants to championtheir cause he should take penin hand before the next con­vention and perhaps show uswho oppose why we shouldchange our minds.

I have no objection to havinganyone who fought under theOCTOFOIL or for it, whateverto join us as associate mem~bers, swap tails etc. if they wantto but no voting rights.

Let's face it, we're older andset in our ways.

I've said my piece, now let'shear from others.

Hopefully we'll see you inWorcester in November.

The Lord's peace be with youand yours.

THE CAPE CODVACA.T~<?NER - A Directoryof actiVIties and attractions forthe years 1980 - 1981 has beenpublished by the CHAMBER OFCOMMERCE.. For those of us intending to bem Hyannis next summer, itwould be beneficial to knowsomething about Hyannis andCAPE COD before you arrive.

For those who will be unableto be on the CAPE next summerwhy not write for a DIREC­TORY. You will be amazed tofind so much about a smallplace. You might even changeyour mind.

To obtain this DIRECTORYwrite to:

THE CAPE COD CHAMBEROF COMMERCE

Routes 6 and 132Hyannis, Mass., 02601

and ask for a copy of the CAPECOD VACATIONER for 1980­1981.. Write now while this is freshm your mind.

Co. I, 60th In£.ALBERT M. HODGE5818 White Bluff Rd.Savannah, Ga. 31405Dear Dan:Just received the latest issue ofthe Octofoil yesterday. My re­ason for writing is to state that Imade a colossal blunder in myletter wherein I failed tomention the names of Mike &Nina Deresh as very closeassociates.The fact that they sat withanother group when I wrote thenames was largely attributableto the oversight.In conclusion let me make itabundantly clear that we wouldhave to rate Mike, and hislovely Wife - Nina as Tops aswell as cherish the fondmem?ri.es of our pastaSSOCIatIOn and certainly lookforward to perpetuation of thesame cordial relations in thefuture.~ike has demonstrably shownhIS unswerving loyalty andd~d~c~tion to the 9th InfantryDIVISIon Association at the localChapter as well as in his presentstatus on the Board of Gover­nors. He along with manyothers including You Mr. DanQuinn for having performed insuch an outstanding manner.PS Sat hello to Your LovelyWife.

FRED G. DICK3600 3rd Avenue N.St. Petersburg, Fla 33713

Washington was my firstreunion and from start to finishit was a beautiful and excitingone. Five members of myCompany attended which was agood representation andneedless to say we had awonderful time together.

Matt Urban helped all of usrecapture the spirit of the "OldReliables". Gosh he even mademe feel a bit like a hero justbeing a part of that greatdivision.

Enclosed are my dues for thenext three years and a smalldonation for the MemorialScholarship Fund.

It was wonderful to finallymeet ~ou Dan. My onlysuggestIOn for Hyannis Port isthat there should be four or fiveDan Quinns at this reunion sot?at everyone can spend moretime chatting with "one ofthem".

A - T- 47th In£.GEORGE REMALEYBox 437-A Rd. 1Nathona Hgts., Pa. 15065

I read your letter in the Oc­tofoil about the Drama Criticand she just doesn't know herjob. They should replace her.The First Division is really apart of the 9th Division also. Wehad a man who was a Captain inthe 16th Infantry I believe fromAnti-Tank Co. 47th Frank J.O'Donnell Jr. We met him inPhiladelphia and it was nice tohear from him and we got to seehim again after so long.

We hope to see him and theother up in Massachusetts nextyear.

26th F.A. & Div. ArtyARTHUR CROWE201 Cherokee St.Marietta, Ga. 30060

I came into the Ninth InfantryDivision as a replacement in thefall of 1943. I was briefly in the26th Field Artillery and then inDivision Artillery Headquar­ters. We were, of course,stationed at Camp BartonStacey until the invasion.

I have just returned from amotor trip through the BritishIsles and visited Camp BartonStacey. It is still there and stillused as an Army post for theRoyal Engineers with about twohundred troops stationed there.The Nisson huts that we werequartered in are gone, but to thebest of my recollection, the rest~f th~ camp looks pretty muchlIke It did then and the pub inLon.g Parish is still open forbusmess every night just as itwas then. That's where ClydeBertram spent most of his time.

I took several pictures aroundthe c.amp a~d would be happy tofurmsh COpIes to any of the guysthat may want them. I wouldalso like to hear from anybodywho may have pictures of thecamp as it was when we werethere or later. Would also like toh~a.r. from anybody fromDIVISIOn Artillery Headquar­ters.

Co G 47th Inf.GEORGE BAKO5275 Monroe Ave., Apt. 7San Diego, Ca 92115Morning coffee, thoughts ofhome and of good friends. I hopethese few lines finds you andyour family in good health. Mayit be ever so with God'sblessing. Paula and I are in goodhealth at the moment. We keeptalking of the nice time we hadin Washington, D.C., and ofmeeting old friends and makingnew ones. With the help of thegood Lord and a few bucks wewill be at the Cape with all ofyou, next year.I was shocked to hear of ourbuddy, Frank Duffy's death.Paula and I had breakfast withhim on Sunday morning afterthe convention. He was not up topar but I never expected him togo so soon.He was a good "Joe,"may he rest in peace with theothers who have gone to theirreward in heaven.When you go to the New YorkChapter meeting please givemy best regards to all the boys.Sure miss all of you (since wemoved from New York toCalifornia). God's blessing onyou all.P.S. Walter Kraft sends his bestwishes to you all from Alaska.