Our Veterans and Soldiers
(Last
names beginning with the letters A thru G)
"We often take for granted the very things that
most deserve our gratitude" - Cynthia Ozick
We are looking for photos of people and/or places from around Kinmundy & Alma.
Can you help?
Or maybe you have
stories or memories from the "Good Old Days"? What do YOU remember?
The Kinmundy Historical Society would be honored to preserve your memories and
stories. We also have the
equipment to scan (or copy) your photos so that
they may be enjoyed now as well as for generations yet to come!
We
would love to hear from you! For more information, please contact:
Dolores (Ford) Mobley –
Dolores@ford-mobley.com
208 Joan Dr.; Divernon, IL 62530;
(217) 625-7527
or
Gladys (Corrie) See –
gsee49@yahoo.com
408 S. Washington
St.; Kinmundy, IL 62854; (618) 547-7731
Click to return to
Bradley D.
Abbott
"The Kinmundy Express” – Oct. 2, 1997 - "Army National Guard Pvt. Bradley D.
ABBOTT has graduated from One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at Fort Sill, Lawton,
Oklahoma. The training included
completion of basic training and advanced individual training (AIT). Basic
trainees received instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons,
map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, first aid, and Army
history and traditions. During AIT, soldiers completed the field artillery
cannon crew member advanced individual training course. Trainees learned
to maintain, prepare and load ammunition for firing; operate and perform
operators maintenance on prime movers, self-propelled, howitzers, and ammunition
vehicles; and perform crew maintenance and participate in organizational
maintenance of weapons and related equipment. They also learned to
establish and maintain radio and wire communications. ABBOTT is the son of Vickie J. and Scott P.
GREEN of 101 Case St., Kinmundy."
Don Adams
“The Kinmundy Express” - Feb. 12, 1953 - "Sammy LOWE, Don ADAMS, and Jim WILLIAMS left Friday to
report for duty in the Armed Services."
Archie R. "Ray" Albert
“The Kinmundy Express” – July 6, 1961 - “Army Pvt. Archie R. ALBERT, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Loren O. Albert, Alma, recently arrived on Okinawa and is now a member
of the 30th Artillery Brigade at Fort Buckner. ALBERT, a personnel
specialist in the brigade’s Headquarters Battery, entered the army last November
and completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. The 18 year old soldier
attended Kinmundy High School. Before entering the Army, he was employed by the
C.A. Glore Lumber Co. at Alma.”
Carl E. Albert
“The Kinmundy Express”
-
May 10, 1973 – “Returns to Home Base: Navy Airman, Carl E. ALBERT, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Paul L. ALBERT of Alma, Ill., has returned to his homebase at the Cecil
Field Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, Florida, after a deployment in the
Western Pacific with Attack Squadron 82 aboard the aircraft carrier USS
America. He joined the Navy in August, 1969.”
Leland B. Alderson
“The Kinmundy Express”:
July 29, 1943 - "Leland
ALDERSON is enjoying a 6 day leave from Chanute Field in the home of his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.R. ALDERSON."
Nov. 11, 1943 - "Leland B. ALDERSON was sworn in the army on October 20 and
released from active service to be transferred to the Enlisted Reserve Corps
until November 10. On this date he reported at Fort Sheridan to be
assigned to active duty in the army."
Feb. 17, 1944 - "Here's one from Pvt. Leland ALDERSON, who
is stationed in New Mexico. He says: ' On my recent delayed route, I had
the opportunity to be home. That is what all the men in the service enjoy
most. I also tried to see you, my chief reason being to thank you for
sending the Kinmundy Express. But the editor of a paper whether in the
movies or in Kinmundy is a hard man to find, so on more than one attempt I
failed. Since I am writing I would like to tell you something of the type
of training that the Army offers. We all like to know what is ahead for
us, so for all the boys yet to be inducted maybe I can ease your minds a bit.
I went through what I now realize was a very efficient Basic Training schedule
as compared with the training some or most of the boys have received. At
the time it was plenty of rough and rugged. Even the words Jefferson
Barracks brings a moan from most G.I's. Our first two weeks were spent in
P.T. (physical training) close order drill, to the right flank, to left flank,
to rear march until you became so weary you wished the drill sergeant would pass
out instead of you. But it was new and we all tried hard. The next
couple of weeks we began to get lectures, map reading, extended order drill tent
pitching, sanitation and rolling a pack. Each day at 5 o'clock the day
started for us and we witnessed great difficulty attempting to crawl from our
warm beds into the cold air that the tent had let sneak in all night. We
had a small stove in each tent but as a rule it was out before morning and the
fire pail had a little ice on it. By this time we were ready for the use
of the piece of rifle, manual of arms and day firing. Then came the day to
fire for record. They day we left with full pack and carbine, was about
five below zero and ___ mile march to Moss Hollow. We fired both
Thompson Sub Machine gun and carbine. I surprised even myself with a score
of 173 firing with our gloves on the temperature that morning being even colder
than the day we left. On the third day we returned to Jefferson Barracks.
Then came the parades before the Colonel, soldiers and more soldiers. The
next phase of our training was the most interesting, camoflage. Our first
instruction was "Without Camouflage a soldier's piece is of no value for he
never will get the chance to use it." We were demonstrated special painted
uniforms, also those the boys made from torn sacks. They really worked but
one would have to see the actual results to appreciate it. then we all
assembled around a quiet little farm and farmyard. The farmer was chopping
wood, his wife feeding the chickens then over the loud speaker came the roar of
the plane, an enemy plane, the farmer and his wife turned into two Sergeants.
The farmer hopped onto the woodpile and was instantly at the trigger of a 50
caliber machine gun everyone ducked. The wife was flying across the
chicken house. The whole chick house flew apart and an anti aircraft gun
immediately was screaming out terrific blast. Out of a haystack located in
the farmyard, came a speeding jeep loaded with G.I.'s firing a mounted machine
gun, the whole farmyard bursting into the unexpected yet so very practical.
Then came our bivouac actually practicing extended order and scouting.
Also a few battles with blanks. The last was the gas chamber and
incendiary bombs. Gas I think speaks for itself, no way to fight back, you
only protect yourself as rapidly as possible the best way you can.
Incendiary bombs tons of them, and each developing 4,300 degrees Fahrenheit of
heat when they go off are being dropped daily by the Allies. Steel melts
at about 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. That may give one a comparative
imagination of the damaging power they possess. We then went before the
Colonel for inspection and questioning. Receiving a passing rating, we
then turned casuals. Some for a very short time because they were listed
for shipment and hence moved out before the others (I was one.) It is time
for lights out so thanks again for the paper."
June 15, 1944 – “PFC
Leland ALDERSON of New Mexico is here for a 2 weeks furlough."
May 17, 1945 - "Mrs. C.R. ALDERSON received a
cablegram Sunday from her son, PFC Leland B. ALDERSON, Somewhere in Belgium."
June 28, 1945 – “Here’s one from PFC Leland ALDERSON dated 1 June, Leige,
Belgium. He says: My time over here has passed very rapid, that I can be
thankful for. I have received the Kinmundy Express and I wished to let you know
that it is arriving. I made my entrance in this area just about 30 days after
the excitement, and only about a week after the buzz bombs ceased. This was the
city that seemed to be the main objective in the ‘bulge’, it is also the city
that Hitler stated he would blow off the map, he did attempt to do just that
with some 2,000 buzz bombs. The personnel of this hospital and the surrounding
General Hospitals located in this vicinity, have certainly recovered splendidly
from those buzz bombs and strafing attacks, which they were compelled to sweat
out. Today we were notified we were to move. This will be this unit’s third
time to move, it will be my first with them. It is a tremendous task to prepare
a General Hospital to move, and be moved in we might say less than 10 days.
Many of the patients that I have had the opportunity to talk with, well remember
this section, in fact, so well that they can even point out the houses and hedge
rows that they used as what little protection they might give them. About 2
weeks ago I had the opportunity to visit Aachen,
Cologne, and Ulich,
Germany. The poppy flowers were
in bloom, but the beautiful fields of blossoms did not hide the battle scars.
The German 88's were still resting where they were suddenly left by the rapidly
retreating Nazi, rusting in the weather, tanks were still along the roads, the
bombed out bridges on the roads were gaping holes, what had been concrete
reinforced steel pill boxes. At one place we observed a bombed out underground
factory. All of this was in the rolling agricultural land of the Ruhr valley,
with the oxen in the field driven by a Kraut, not yet out of uniform. We
visited Aachen first, then Duren, Cologne, and last Ulich. My
vocabulary is far limited to express on paper the complete destruction of the
cities I saw. The people of Germany in these areas will not be able to forget
for a long time, but how about the areas that were more fortunate. In Cologne
we visited the Cathedral which took some 400 years to build, it is ruined on the
inside from the vibration of high explosives in the surrounding area, but from
the outside stands as erect as ever. My equipment must be in order, so this
will be all for now.”
Oct. 11, 1945 – “PFC
Leland ALDERSON Home: Mr. and Mrs. C.R. ALDERSON left Tuesday for Chicago to spend a
few days with their son, PFC Leland ALDERSON and wife. PFC Leland is enjoying a
30 day furlough after serving in France the past 7 months. After his furlough
has expired, he will report for duty in Birmingham, Ala.”
Cecil Aldrich
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 30, 1942 - "In the Service: Cecil ALDRICH"
Apr. 13, 1944 - "Cecil ALDRICH is spending a 15 day
furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jess ALDRICH and other relatives."
Jackie Aldrich
“The Kinmundy Express” - Nov. 9, 1967 - "Mr. and
Mrs. Jackie ALDRICH are visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil ALDRICH and
brother, Randy. He has been in the U.S. Army for 2 years and has been
discharged having served his time. He came here from Homestead, Fla."
James Alexander
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 4, 1957 - "In
Fort Lewis: James ALEXANDER, who was inducted in the
army two weeks ago, was sent to Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. From there he went
to Fort Dodge, Kan., and is now stationed at Ft. Lewis, Wash."
July 11, 1957 – “Pvt. Dwight James ALEXANDER of
Ft. Lewis,
Washington arrived home Saturday evening to spend a few days furlough with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. D.J. ALEXANDER, and other relatives and friends.”
March 20, 1958 – “Cpl. Jimmie ALEXANDER of
Fort Lewis,
Wash., arrived Sunday night to spend a few days furlough with his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. D.J. ALEXANDER and other relatives.”
Apr. 2, 1959 – “Jim ALEXANDER received his discharge from
the army at Fort Lewis, Wash., March 24, and arrived home Monday.
Xon L. Alexander
"The Kinmundy Express”:
July 6, 1944 - “Mr. and Mrs.
F.G. ALEXANDER returned Wednesday night from Plainview, Texas, where they
visited with Mr. and Mrs. O.B. JACKSON. Enroute home they stopped in
Missouri and visited their youngest son, Pvt. Xon ALEXANDER. They were
accompanied from St. Louis by their son, Francis, of Circleville, Ohio."
Dec. 7, 1944 - “Mr. and Mrs. F.G.
ALEXANDER are visiting in Newton, Ia., with their children, Mr. and Mrs. Wm.
HUMPHREY and family and Cpl. Xon ALEXANDER."
March 29, 1945
- “Here’s a nice letter from Tec 3 Xon L. ALEXANDER, who is somewhere in India,
Province of Assam. He says: Dumfounded, I suppose hearing from me. But for the
first time since starting the long trip over here, I have found some time to
catch up on my writing. While in the states I received your paper regularly and
enjoyed it every line. Many of the fellows here have read it and also enjoyed
it. Especially Zatso. It is the only column of its kind I have run across in
any paper. So if for nothing else, you should be commended for your
originality. I also enjoyed the letters from men in service. I read Rex
GAMMON’s description of India, while I was still in training; never dreaming,
was to wind up here. If Rex is still here could you send me his address? I
will sure try to contact him. I have never run across any of the boys from
home, but I’m still looking for someone. All for now and thanks very much for
the paper.”
May 3, 1945 - "Meet in India: Sgt. Rex
GAMMON and T3 Xon ALEXANDER are both stationed in India. After receiving
one another's address from homefolks, they looked each other up and found that
they were stationed only eight miles apart. Now their ball teams are
playing each other. We can just imagine these are happy occasions for Rex
and Xon."
Sept. 18, 1948 - "T Sgt. Xon ALEXANDER
of Kansas City, Kas., came Saturday and visited his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.G.
ALEXANDER, and brother, D.J. ALEXANDER and family. Darla Jean and Billy
Xon returned home with him and will attend school in Kansas City."
James Alois Allegret
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Sept. 25, 2003 - (From his obituary): James Alois ALLEGRET,
88, of Alma died at 4:35 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, 2003, at Salem Twp. Hospital in
Salem He was born on Dec. 31, 1914 in Salem, son of Joseph and Bridget
(MAINO) ALLEGRET. .... He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and a
recipient of the Purple Heart....."
Bryan Allen
“The Kinmundy Express”:
March 21, 2002
–“Mrs. Linda WOODEN attended an Awards Banquet at Scott Air Force Base on Feb.
8th. Her son, Master Sgt. Bryan ALLEN, was one of the recipeints of an
award. Linda stayed overnight with her son and family and returned home
the next day."
Vernon Lee Roy Allen
“The Kinmundy Express”:
June 10, 1965 –“Lee Roy ALLEN and Lester LOGUE have
been inducted into the U.S. Army and left Monday from Centralia for Fort Leonard
Wood, Mo.”
Nov. 25, 1965 –“Pvt. Vernon LeeRoy ALLEN is now
stationed in Germany.”
May 26, 1966 – “PFC LeeRoy ALLEN arrived Wednesday from
Germany, where he had been stationed for the past 8 months. He will enjoy a 20
day leave here with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Allen and other
relatives. Upon completion of his leave, he will report to
Ft. Eustis,
Va., for his next assignment.”
Sept. 8, 1966 – “Pfc Vernon L. ALLEN left the states
Aug. 9th for Okinawa, where he is receiving training.”
Jan. 12, 1967 – “SP/4 Vernon L. ALLEN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Vernon Allen of Salem, is now stationed near Siagon, Vietnam.”
Robert D. "Buddy" Allison
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Jan. 8, 1981 - “Navy Seaman Recruit, Robert D. ALLISON, son of Billie J.
ALLISON of Box 66 Kinmundy, IL, has completed recruit training at the Naval
Training Center, Orlando, Fla. During the 8 week training cycle, trainees
studies general military subjects designed to prepare them for further academic
and on-the-job training in one of the Navy’s 85 basic occupational fields.
Included in their studies were seamanship, close order drill, Naval history and
first aid. A 1980 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, he joined the Navy in
Feb. 1980.”
May 14, 1981 –
“Navy Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Robert D. ALLISON, son of Mrs.
Billie J. ALLISON of Kinmundy, IL, has completed the Basic Machinist’s Mate
Course. During the course at the Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, students
received instruction on the use of hand tools and machine shop equipment. In
addition, they studied the basic operation, maintenance and repair of ships’
propulsion equipment, evaporators and generators. The students were also
introduced to the types of duty watches that Machinist’s Mates stand aboard
ships.”
(V-60) Harvey Allphin
“The
Kinmundy Express”
May 9, 1957 – “Army Privates Harvey D. ALLPHIN, 18, and
Farrol E.
ARMSTRONG,
17, of Kinmundy, recently began 6 months of active military training under the
Reserve Forces Act program at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. They are receiving 8 weeks
of basic combat training. After completion of the 6 months tour of active duty,
they will spend the remainder of their military service in a local Army Reserve
of the National Guard unit. ALLPHIN, son of Mrs. Inez Nelie HANKS, Kinmundy, is
a former employee of the International Shoe Co. in Flora. ARMSTRONG, a former
student at Kinmundy-Alma High School is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth
ARMSTRONG of Kinmundy.”
June 13, 1957 - "Home of Furlough: Pvt. Farrol ARMSTRONG, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Kenneth ARMSTRONG and Pvt. Harvey ALLPHIN, son of Mrs. Inez HANKS, arrived
home Saturday from Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and are enjoying a 13 day furlough."
July 25, 1957 - "Pvt. Harvey D. ALLPHIN and Pvt. Donald L. BURCHAM of
Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., spent the week end with Mr. and Mrs. Lewis HANKS."
Oct. 10, 1957 - "Farrol ARMSTRONG and Harvey ALLPHIN
returned Friday after completing six month training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo."
Darrel E. Anderson
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Nov. 5, 1959 - "Darrell ANDERSON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Forest
ANDERSON, enlisted in the army and left Oct. 24 for Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.,
where he is stationed."
Jan. 7, 1960 - "Pvt. Darrel ANDERSON left Saturday to
return to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., after enjoying a 14 day furlough with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest ANDERSON and Donald."
Dec. 8, 1960 - "Mr. and Mrs. Forrest ANDERSON have received word
from his son, Darrel, who is a typist clerk in an ammunition depot at Miesau,
Germany, that his address has been changed. Darrel is in the U.S. Army and
has been overseas about 3 months. (His address thru New York was
included.)
March 30, 1961 - “Darrel E. ANDERSON, 19, son of Mrs.
Forrest P. Anderson, Kinmundy, recently was promoted to specialist 4 in
Germany
where he is a member of Headquarters Detachment, U.S. Army Ammunition Depot.
Specialist Anderson, a clerk in the detachment in Miesau, entered the Army in
Oct. 1959 and received basic training at Fort Leonard Wood,
Mo.
He arrived overseas in Aug. 1960. He is a 1959 graduate of Kinmundy Public High
School.”
Oct. 18, 1962 - "Darrel ANDERSON, son of Mrs. Eugene
REESE returned home Sunday, Darrel has served three years in the Army.
Twenty-six months of this time was spent in Germany. He arrived in the
United States Saturday morning, Oct. 13, received his discharge Saturday
afternoon in Franklin, N.Y., and arrived home Sunday evening. Darrel is
enjoying a well earned rest in the home of his parents for awhile."
George Herman Anna
"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill. -
May 30, 1918
"News has been received here of the safe arrival overseas
of Herman ANNA, Eugene CRAIG, Bryan ROBB, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, Abe & Alva
BAYLIS, Chas. HOYT. The many Kinmundy relatives and friends are glad
to know of their safe arrival."
"Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – July 18, 1918;
Co. A 54 Inf.
Reg. No. 418, 377 A.E.F.
Dear Folks,
I
think by now you may be wondering why I don’t write but all the rest of the
people I write to are just as bad off as you in that respect for this is the
first letter I have written since we landed over here. I have started to write
several times and really sent one letter at the port where we landed to you
folks but it was returned as I had too much on the outside of the envelope. I
am wiser now, though so I think this will pass the censor all right.
I have
seen a large part of northern France and I am pleased in some ways with it and
in other ways I am slightly disappointed. It is a beautiful country and seems
to be pretty rich soil but the fields are not much larger than our new orchard
and many of them smaller. The methods of farming seem very crude to me but the
crops seem to grow good in spite of that. I saw some of the finest rye here I
believe I ever saw and the clover grows very nice but I sure miss the fields of
corn. I haven’t seen a stalk of corn since I have been here and only two hogs
and they appeared to be the old hazel splitter variety; big, high-backed animals
with hair on them like a curry brush. There are some fine cattle.
We
have been in several different towns so far and each looks pretty much like the
other. You may write to me at the same company and regiment but add American
E.F. via New York. All the towns have the same narrow streets, the same plaster
and brick houses, the same bunch of jabbering people. I suppose though if we
could get their opinion of our talk, it would be the same that I have of
theirs. I can’t talk to the people any yet except to ask for a few things such
as milk, bread, butter, water, wine and cigarettes. I can speak a few works and
understand more than I can say but not enough to carry on an intelligent
conversation with any of the people here.
Well I
must close for this time hoping to hear from you soon, and I will try to write
more next time.
Yours as ever - George H. ANNA
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Dec. 5, 1918 - "According to a
message received from the War Department at Washington on Monday by Miss Clara
SEE, residing south of town, her nephew, Herman ANNA, was severally wounded in
battle on Nov. 10, the last day before the signing of the armistice. He
was a member of Co. G 9th Illinois Infantry, a regiment of Federalized National
Guardsmen. In the same Company with him were Abe and Alva BAYLIS, Eugene
CRAIG, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, and Frank HOYT. These boys have been in
France since last summer and have seen considerable hard fighting. It is
with much regret that his many friends learn of Herman's serious injury on the
last day of the great world struggle. Further word received from these
boys states that Abe BAYLIS is in the hospital with a twisted ankle and Avery
BOUGHERS had been slightly gassed. From the number of Illinois boys in the
recent casualty lists, it is very apparent that our boys were just beginning to
get into the fighting."
June 5, 1919 - "Kinmundy 'Prairie Dogs' Return
Home: Members of Company G Return Home Sunday Evening. Three Wear Wound
Stripes and Three others Win Promotion: The people of Kinmundy were pleased to
welcome home, last Sunday evening several of her very own "Prairie Dogs",
members of the famous 33rd Division and more notably of Company G, of Effingham.
Perhaps more than the usual significance attaches to the return of these boys,
because they constituted the largest number from Kinmundy to be in the same
company and regiment throughout the war. Those from this city who enlisted
in this company were: Alvah BAYLIS, Abe BAYLIS, Charles HOYT, Eugene CRAIG,
Avery BOUGHERS, Wm. LEMAY, Bryan ROBB, and Herman ANNA. Of these, the
latter will never return, for he now sleeps beneath the soil of France, made
sacred by the blood of thousands of his comrades in arms. Of the others, three, Chas.
HOYT, Avery BOUGHERS and William LEMAY, wear wound stripes; Abe BAYLIS rose to
the rank of sergeant, and Avery BOUGHERS and Wm. LEMAY to that of corporal.
These boys enlisted in Company G of the Fourth Illinois Infantry. I.N.G., which
became the 130th Infantry upon its federalization on July 25, 1917. They
were then sent to Camp Logan, Texas, whence they sailed for France May 16th,
1918, landing at Brest May 24. They were soon transferred to the English
sector on the Albert and Hamel fronts, where they were the first of the American
troops to fight under an English Flag. Here they participated in several
battles on July 3rd and 4th, and _________________________________ and here
again they were the first of the American soldiers to fight under the French
flag. On Sept. 26 they went into the lines with the American forces, and
remained under fire continuously until the signing of the armistice. Their
hardest fighting came on Nov. 10 in the battle of Marcheville, in which one of
our own boys gave his life. For his work on this day he was
recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross. After the signing of the
armistice they retired to Tillet, France, where after a week's rest, they
matched to Diekireh, Luxembourg, where they remained as a part of the Army of
Occupation until Apr. 24, when they set out on their return to the U.S.A., home
and loved ones. They arrived at Hoboken, N.J., on May 20th, and were sent
to Camp Grant for demobilization, stopping enroute at Chicago to participate in
a great "homecoming" parade. Their regiment and division return with
an enviable record - one of which this company may well be proud. They are
truly entitled to every honor and the glory which they nobly share with others
of our industrious sons who went out to do battle for us."
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Feb. 27, 1919
The following letter was
received by Miss Clara SEE in answer to a letter of inquiry concerning her
nephew, Herman ANNA, who has at various times been reported dead. While this
letter in itself does not throw much light on this question, a previous letter
from a nurse in one of the hospitals in
France
told of his death and burial. Relatives here have virtually giving up hope of
ever seeing him again, and thus it seems that we shall be compelled to place
another golden star on our service flag, a star changed from the blue by the
transforming power of man’s greatest service to mankind, his life for his fellow
man.
That Herman
ANNA gave an excellent account of himself, is very apparent from the words of
his Major in the following letter. Truly, as he has said, his relatives and
friends may be proud of him.
Mostroff, Luxemborg, Jan.
24, 1919
Miss Clara SEE – Kinmundy,
Ill.
Dear Madam – Your letter
of January 3rd, regarding your nephew, Herman ANNA, received and
noted. To the best of my knowledge, he was injured on Nov. 10th in
the battle of Marchville and taken to the hospital in a serious condition. I
have been able to get but one report concerning him and that was that one of the
members of his company had seen him in the hospital. However this was very
uncertain as it came to me from other parties.
Whether dead or
alive, you and his friends and relatives can well be proud of him, as he fought
like a demon on the day he was injured. He was attacked by three Germans who
concentrated their fire on him. He got two of them, but the third one got him.
The boys all say his fighting was wonderful.
I trust by this
time you will have received some good news concerning him.
Yours truly,
Albert H. Gravenhorst –
Major 130th Infantry
"The Marion County Express"; Kinmundy, Ill.;
May
22, 1919 - "A Tribute to Ours Boys of the Blue, Silver and Gold Stars; the
Alumni meeting of 1919 would fail in one of its most vital points of interest,
did we forget do honor to the boys from our roll of membership who have given
their services to their country in her hour of great need, and whose names with
henceforth be written in shining stars of blue, silver and gold, on the memory
of every loyal man and woman, boy and girl of Kinmundy of this Association and
of this great nation of which we are a part ..... (Class of 1911) Herman
ANNA enlisted Sept. 18, 1917, with the Illinois National Guard, Co. G. 130th
Infantry, 33d (Prairie) Division, at Effingham, and went to Camp Logan, Houston,
Texas, May 24, 1918, arrived at Brest, fought under 3 flags: Australian,
British, and French. The chaplain of the 130th Infantry writes of the
movements of this 33d division from the time they steamed into Brest, May 24,
until the order came to cease firing at 11:00 a.m., Nov. 11, 1918. Herman
was mortally wounded Nov. 10, at Marchville, France, died Nov. 13, and was
buried at Conimercy, France. Thus reads the story of continuous fighting
in which one of our won boys was engaged and the blue star was turned to gold.
The body sleeps beneath the poppys of France. I.D. McCall has beautifully
written:
In
Flanders' fields the poppies grow,
Between
the crosses, row on row,
That
mark our place ....."
"The Kinmundy Express" - Kinmundy, IL - July 28, 1921;
" Kinmundy Boy Who was Killed in
France Buried in Galena, Illinois"
"George Herman Anna, 1st Class Private, Co. G, 130th Inf. 33rd Div. the only
child of Geo. W. and Cornelia Anna, was born Oct. 28th, 1893 in Chicago.
His mother dying when he was 8 years of age, he made
his home with his grandparents at Kinmundy, Ill. He graduated from the Kinmundy
High School at the age of 16. A year later, he entered the Wesleyan University
at Bloomington, Ill., and completed a four year law course in three years,
graduating from the Wesleyan at the age of 20.
He was a volunteer in the Great War, enlisting in June 1917.
Being at first rejected on account of light weight, a month later he again
enlisted and was accepted. He was mustered into service at Effingham, Ill., July
25th, 1917.
He was sent to Camp Logan, Houston, Tex., in Sept. 1917. Here
on account of his proficiency in the use of the rifle, he was made instructor in
trench guns and automatic rifles. The Department wished to retain him at Camp
Logan as instructor, his division was ordered overseas, but he was finally
granted permission to accompany his Division, still retaining his position as
instructor.
He had attained his great ambition which was to become a 1st
Class Private.
He landed in France in May, 1918. In the early part of June
1918, his Division was ordered to the front, where he served continuously in the
great battles of the last four months of the war. After fighting in the battle
of the Argonne for 36 days, he fell before Marcheville, mortally wounded by gun
shot and high explosives at one o'clock in the morning of Nov. 10, 1918. The day
before, the Armistice, he was carried cheering his comrades on to victory, to
base Hospital No. 13, Commercy, France, where he died Nov. 13th at 4 a.m.
He was borne to his last resting place on the same day, just
as the sun sank behind the hills, by his own comrades, and the flag that he died
for, covered him.
At the request of
his father, the Government of the U.S.A. has brought from overseas the mortal
remains of the soldier boy, George Herman Anna.
From his grave in
France, which his life's blood had consecrated, his ashes have been borne, that
they may find a resting place in his native land, for which he died.
The funeral was
held from the family residence at Galena, Ill., at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 2nd,
1921. Rev. Jerome MacGlade, Pastor So. Pres. Church officiating. The
burial was made with full military honors, under the direction of Herman
Fickbohm Post 193, American Legion. Interment was made in Greenwood
Cemetery."
Michael J.
Applegate
“The Kinmundy Express” – Dec. 19, 1996 - "Marine Pvt. Michael J. APPLEGATE, son
of Karen S. APPLEGATE of 9263 Kinlou Rd., Kinmundy, IL, recently completed basic
training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif. APPLEGATE
successfully completed 11 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine
recruits both physically and mentally. APPLEGATE and fellow recruits began
their training at 5 a.m. by running three miles and performing calisthenics.
In addition to the physical conditioning program, APPLEGATE spent numerous hours
in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform
regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and
assorted weapons training. APPLEGATE and fellow recruits worked as a team
to solve a number of tactical problems during the program. They performed close
order drill and operated as a Marine small infantry unit in the field.
APPLEGATE and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps' core
values - honor, courage, and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding
personal and professional conduct. APPLEGATE joins 41,000 men and women
who will enter the Marine Corps this year from all over the country. He is a 1996
graduate of South Central High School of Farina, Ill."
(V-125) Farrol Armstrong
“The
Kinmundy Express”:
May 9, 1957 – “Army Privates Harvey D. ALLPHIN, 18, and
Farrol E.
ARMSTRONG,
17, of Kinmundy, recently began 6 months of active military training under the
Reserve Forces Act program at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. They are receiving 8 weeks
of basic combat training. After completion of the 6 months tour of active duty,
they will spend the remainder of their military service in a local Army Reserve
of the National Guard unit. ALLPHIN, son of Mrs. Inez Nelie HANKS, Kinmundy, is
a former employee of the International Shoe Co. in Flora. ARMSTRONG, a former
student at Kinmundy-Alma High School is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth
ARMSTRONG of Kinmundy.”
June 13, 1957 - "Home of Furlough: Pvt. Farrol ARMSTRONG, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Kenneth ARMSTRONG and Pvt. Harvey ALLPHIN, son of Mrs. Inez HANKS, arrived
home Saturday from Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and are enjoying a 13 day furlough."
July 25, 1957 – “Pvt. Farrol E. ARMSTRONG, son of Mr. and
Mrs. William K. ARMSTRONG of Kinmundy recently began the second phase of 6
months of active duty under the Reserve Forces Act at Fort Leonard Wood. The 17
year old soldier attended
Kinmundy
High School.”
Oct. 10, 1957 - "Farrol ARMSTRONG and Harvey ALLPHIN
returned Friday after completing six month training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo."
Ancel H. Arnold
“The Kinmundy Express”:
June 3, 1943 - "East
Zion: Pfc Ancel ARNOLD of Oklahoma is spending a 15 day furlough with his
parents."
Jan. 4, 1945 - "Lieut. Ancel ARNOLD of Camp Lubbock,
Texas, is spending a furlough with home folks. He will return to Denver,
Colo., Jan. 4."
March 8, 1945 - "East Zion (from last week): Lieut.
Ancel H. ARNOLD of the Air Force from Colorado is spending a 15 day furlough
here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.H. ARNOLD. He will return to a camp
in Texas."
April 19, 1945 - "East Zion (from last week): Lt.
Ancel ARNOLD of the Air Force came to Scott Field by plane Sunday and spent
Sunday night and Monday with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hobart ARNOLD."
Nov. 15, 1945 - "East Zion: Lt. Ancel ARNOLD spent over the
weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hobart ARNOLD."
Dec. 5, 2002 - (From his obituary): "... On May 3,
1921, he was born to James Hobart and Eunice QUAYLE ARNOLD in Alma. On
June 30, 1946, he married Fleta L. WILLIAMS.....From 1942-1945, he was in the
United States Air Force and rose to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant Pilot....."
(V-383)
Daniel A. Arnold
“The Kinmundy Express”:
June 19, 1941 - "Leave for Camp: Xon SCHOOLEY, Merle HAMMER, D.A. ARNOLD,
and Frank BOYD left Tuesday evening for Chicago where they will be inducted into
selective service."
July 3,
1941 - "Daniel A. ARNOLD, who was called into the selective service week before
last, writes us a short note. He is stationed at Camp Polk, Cl., and is a
member of the 3rd Armored Division, being assigned to Co. E, 36th Inf.
He writes: "Camp Polk is a new camp and almost finished. It is fine down
here. The meals are good and we have a good place to sleep. The
fellows here seem to be nice fellows and all seem to like army life. I
like it better every day now that I've got settled." And we're glad you're
liking it, D.A., and we sincerely hope that camp will be as far as you will need
to go."
Dec. 18,
1941 - "Pvt. D.A.
ARNOLD, who is stationed in Louisiana, arrived home Friday for a 15 day furlough
during the holidays."
Jan. 15, 1942 - "Boys Leave for Camp: Carl and Roy
DOOLEN, Bill GARRETT, Marvin BASSETT, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Willard WILEY, and Merle
SCHNEIDER, left Tuesday night for camp. D.A. ARNOLD, who was released a
few weeks ago on account of being over 28, was recalled and left Sunday night.
Arthur BOYD, Charles KLINE, Paul WRIGHT and Louie Soutier are in St. Louis today
where they are receiving their final physical examinations."
March 12, 1942 -
"P.F.C. Daniel A. ARNOLD of Co. E, 36th Armored Infantry Regiment of the 3rd
Armored Division stationed at Camp Polk, La., has been promoted to Sergeant,
according to information received from Col. W.L. Roberts, commanding the 36th
Armored Infantry Regiment. Sgt. ARNOLD is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dan
ARNOLD of this city."
Feb. 18, 1943 - "Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD is spending his
furlough with his mother and sisters Ruby and Grace."
Feb. 25,
1943 - "Sgt. Carl PURCELL of Penn. spent Thursday evening with Sgt. D.A.
ARNOLD."
Feb. 25, 1943 - "Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD was a supper
guest in the Dwight PURCELL home in Alma Saturday evening."
Feb. 3,
1944 - "We have received word from Ft. Banning, Ga., that Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD
has been promoted to Staff Sergeant. He is serving in the Armored Infantry
Battalion there. S/Sgt. ARNOLD is the son of Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD of this
city. Congratulations, D.A."
March 9, 1944 - "Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield,
Ill. and S. Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD of Georgia are here visiting with their mother,
Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Ruby."
Nov. 23, 1944 - "Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD received a message
Sunday from the War Dept., stating that her son, S. Sgt, D.A. ARNOLD, had been
wounded in action in Holland, Nov. 1."
Dec. 28, 1944 - "Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD Wounded in Germany: Staff
Sergeant Daniel A. ARNOLD, 32, of this city, wounded by a German mine while
serving with his armored infantry division in Germany, is now recovering at the
159th General Hospital, in England. He has been awarded the Purple Heart. "We
were expecting a counter attack", Sgt. ARNOLD, a mortar squad leader, related,
"and I was placing my squad in position at an outpost. Only spasmodic artillery
fire was coming over at the time. I stepped on a mine on an embankment near a
road. I was stunned for a few moments, and when I came to I was lying in the
road. I was wounded in the right ankle, in both thighs, and in both legs. First
aid was administered immediately and I was later flown to England." His ward
surgeon, First Lieutenant Marvin S. SIEGEL of Brooklyn, N.Y., said, "Sgt. ARNOLD
is showing steady improvement, and will be able to return to duty within a few
weeks." Sgt. ARNOLD’s mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD, resides in this city. A sister,
Second Lieutenant Grace M. ARNOLD, is a nurse in a general hospital in France. A
brother, Seaman Third Class Frank G. ARNOLD, is with the Seabees in the South
Pacific area."
May
24, 1945 – “Frank ARNOLD, SSMB2 c, arrived Saturday for a leave with his mother,
Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby. Enroute he visited with his sister, Lt. Grace
ARNOLD, in the Fitzsimmons Hospital in Denver, Colo. Mrs.
Agnes ARNOLD received word Sunday from her son, S. Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD, that he has
arrived in the States from Europe.”
June 28, 1945 – “S. Sgt. Daniel ARNOLD, Wounded in Holland, Now Enjoying
Furlough With Home Folks: S. Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD arrived here June 18th to
spend a 30 day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and other relatives.
He entered the service June 18, 1941, but was not shipped overseas until June 6,
1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, then to Belgium,
Luxembourg, Germany and Holland. On Nov. 1, 1944, near Venlo,
Holland, he was wounded by a
land mine, injuring both legs. He was taken to the hospital at Leige, Belgium,
then to Paris, France, and then to England. He started back to the states of
May 8th landing May 20th. After reaching the states, he was assigned to the
Fitzsimmon German Hospital, Denver, Colo., as a patient.
Needless to say that he is enjoying his furlough here with relatives and friends
very much. He has a brother, Frank, in the navy, who recently returned from
overseas and is now stationed at Camp Wescott, Davisville, R.I. He also has a
sister, 1st Lt. Grace, an army nurse, who recently returned from oversea duty
and is now a patient in the Fitzsimmon General Hospital,
Denver, Colo. D.A. reports her,
as being much improved but not able to make a visit home for 2 or 3 months yet.
Sgt. D.A. was a member of the 7th Armored Division and wears the Combat
Infantryman’s Badge, the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, the
Purple Heart and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars,
representing the battles of France, German and Belgium-Holland.”
(V-387) Donna Bernice (Arnold) Jacobson
"The Kinmundy Express":
Apr. 20,
1944 - "In the WAC: Miss Donna Berneice ARNOLD, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ora
ARNOLD, of North Fork Community, was inducted into the W.A.C. in St. Louis, Mo.,
on April 7th. Pvt. ARNOLD will be in the Air Corps and is now in Des
Moines, Ia., for her basic training. The ARNOLDS now have a son and a
daughter in the Army."
Dec. 21, 1944
- "Pvt. Donna ARNOLD of California, is enjoying her furlough with her parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Ora ARNOLD, in North Fork neighborhood."
Aug. 23, 1944
- "PFC Donna ARNOLD, of Calif., is enjoying a furlough with her parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Ora ARNOLD, of the Arnold Chapel neighborhood."
Dec. 27, 1945 – “PFC Donna ARNOLD, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ora ARNOLD of the
Arnold Chapel neighborhood, arrived home Dec. 4, after receiving her discharge
at Ft. Sheridan the day previous. Donna enlisted in the WAC April 7, 1944 and
was sent to Palm Springs, Calif., for 16 months, after which she was stationed
at Stockton Field, Calif. She was assigned to the Training Aids Dept., as a
draftsman. PFC ARNOLD wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense
Ribbon, and the Victory Medal.”
Jan. 3, 1946 –“A picture was printed of PFC Donna ARNOLD, daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Orie ARNOLD, who arrived home Dec. 4 after receiving her discharge
the day previous. She was stationed in California.”
Earl Arnold
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 23, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men - In
Training Camps - Earl ARNOLD
Feb. 27, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Earl ARNOLD
Frank Arnold
"The Kinmundy Express":
Dec. 3, 1942 - "Sgt.
Dan ARNOLD of La., Frank ARNOLD of Mich., Forrest ARNOLD of Texas, Lt. Grace
ARNOLD of Kinmundy, Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield, and Mrs. Emma BECKELHEIMER
of Iowa are here to be with their father who suffered a stroke last week and has
been in very serious condition."
July 29,
1943 - "S1/c Frank ARNOLD of R.I. and Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield,
Ill., spent the weekend with their mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby."
Apr. 27,
1944 (from last week): "Frank ARNOLD, who has been overseas, is home on
furlough."
May
24, 1945 – “Frank ARNOLD, SSMB2 c, arrived Saturday for a leave with his mother,
Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby. Enroute he visited with his sister, Lt. Grace
ARNOLD in the Fitzsimmons Hospital in Denver, Colo. Mrs.
Agnes ARNOLD received word Sunday from her son, S. Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD, that he has
arrived in the States from Europe.”
May
31, 1945 – “Frank ARNOLD, SSMB2c, arrived here on May 18th after spending the
past year in the Marshall Islands. Needless to say that he was mighty glad to
get home and see his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and family as well as his many
friends. Frank enlisted in the C.B.s on Nov. 24, 1942. And after training at
various stations, shipped overseas on May 6, 1944, landing in the Marshall
Islands. The island on which he was stationed consisted of nothing but rock, no
vegetation, no flies, no mosquitoes, and the best all, no fighting. They were
just there guarding the island. Consequently, life was pretty dull. Frank
developed a little trouble in one limb and was sent back to the states, landing
on April 16th. He was sent to the hospital at San Diego for a few days and then
dismissed and given a 30 day leave. Enroute here, he stopped in Denver, Colo.,
and visited a short time with his sister, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, who is a patient in
the Fitzsimmons General Hospital there. Frank will report back to duty in
Detroit, Mich., on June 11, and
then will be reassigned from there. He has one brother, Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD,
who is in the service and has just recently returned to the states from the
Western Front where he was wounded. Saturday the mother received word that he
was now a patient in the Fitzsimmons General Hospital,
Denver, Colo., the same hospital
in which his sister, Lt. Grace, is a patient. Frank wears the Asiatic-Pacific
Ribbon.”
George D. Arnold
“The Kinmundy Express” – July 26, 1962 - “George D. ARNOLD, son of Mr. and Mrs.
George W. Arnold, Kinmundy, recently was promoted to Private first class in
Germany where he is a member of the 26th Artillery. Arnold, assigned
to the artillery’s Battery A, entered the Army in Oct. 1959, completed basic
training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., and arrived overseas in April 1960. The 20
year old soldier attended Kinmundy High School.”
(V-306) Grace Arnold
"The Kinmundy Express":
March 5, 1942 - "Enlists in Army as Red Cross Nurse: Miss Grace ARNOLD of Cincinnati,
Ohio, came Sunday to visit with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel A. ARNOLD and
family. Miss ARNOLD has enrolled in the Base Hospital Unit No. 25, now
under the organization by the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.
She will be in one of the U.S. Army camps for military training before leaving
for the Base Unit for foreign duties in a 1000 Bed Base Hospital. Here
rank in the Army will be Second Lieutenant."
Dec. 3, 1942 - "Sgt.
Dan ARNOLD of La., Frank ARNOLD of Mich., Forrest ARNOLD of Texas, Lt. Grace
ARNOLD of Kinmundy, Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield, and Mrs. Emma BECKELHEIMER
of Iowa are here to be with their father who suffered a stroke last week and has
been in very serious condition."
June 4,
1943 - "Lt. Grace ARNOLD returned to Kentucky, Monday after spending a ten day
furlough here with her mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and daughters."
Dec. 2,
1943 - "Lt. Grace ARNOLD of Kentucky is here on furlough with her mother, Mrs.
Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby."
Dec. 30, 1943 - "Another personal greeting is from Lt. Grace ARNOLD who was in
this country when she sent us the greeting, but from the looks of her new
address, she will soon be taking a ride across the briny deep. She says.
"Hello folks. Sorry I did not get to see you while I was home.
Thanks again for the paper. I surely enjoy the news from home. May
God bless you and your family always."
Jan. 25, 1945 - "Relatives have received word here
stating the Pvt. Charles DISS was permitted to spend a 3 day pass the last 3
days in the old year, with his aunt, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, who is stationed in a
Base Hospital in Belgium."
April 5, 1945 - “Lt. Grace ARNOLD Lands Back in States: Mrs.
Agnes ARNOLD received word that her daughter, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, landed back in
the States after serving overseas. Naturally, they are expecting her home
in the near future. Lt. ARNOLD was among the first nurses to be sent to
the Western Front. She was returned to the states on account of ill
health, and was in South Carolina when she notified her mother of her arrival.
We are all very anxious to see Lt. Grace home again.”
May
24, 1945 – “Frank ARNOLD, SSMB2 c, arrived Saturday for a leave with his mother,
Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby. Enroute he visited with his sister, Lt. Grace
ARNOLD, in the Fitzsimmons Hospital in Denver, Colo. Mrs.
Agnes ARNOLD received word Sunday from her son, S. Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD, that he has
arrived in the States from Europe.”
Feb. 7, 1946 –“1st Lt. Grace ARNOLD, daughter of Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD, of this
city, who was discharged Dec. 31st and is now a patient in the Dunham Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio. Lt. ARNOLD
entered the service as a nurse in Aug. 1942 and shipped overseas in Dec. 1943.
Her work was mostly in a Field Hospital in Belgium. She was returned to the
states in April 1945 and sent to the Fitzsimmons General Hospital,
Denver, Colo., as a patient.
She is reported as being some improved in health but it will be some time yet
before she is completely well again.”
June 20, 1946 –“Miss Grace ARNOLD, daughter of Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD, arrived home
last week, and we are very happy to report, has regained her health to such an
extent that she really looks hale and hearty, but realizes she must go slow for
awhile. Miss ARNOLD entered the service as a nurse and was given the commission
of Lieutenant in Aug. 1942. She went overseas in Dec. 1943 and served with a
Field Hospital Unit in Belgium. The untiring service she gave our wounded lads,
and the exposure to the elements of the weather proved too much for her health.
She returned to the states in April 1945 and was sent to the Fitzsimmons General
Hospital, Denver, Colo., as a patient.
Here she remained until she was discharged on Dec. 31st last. After her
discharge, she entered the Dunham Hospital,
Cincinatti, Ohio as a patient.
She had trained in this hospital and had great faith in it and the doctors. She
remained there until her return home. And it looks as though her faith was well
founded. We sincerely hope that Grace will soon be strong enough to soon carry
on with her chosen profession.”
Mark L.
Arnold
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Dec. 9, 1943 - "Greetings: Mark L. ARNOLD and Fred
BOYD have received 'greetings' and will report for induction next week along
with 53 other boys from this county under the jurisdiction of the Salem
Selective Board."
June 1, 1944 - "PFC Mark ARNOLD of Michigan, is
enjoying his furlough with his wife and daughter and other relatives."
March 8, 1945 - "Mark ARNOLD of the U.S. Army, spent
from Friday until Sunday night with his wife and daughter."
Aug. 23, 1945 - "PFC Mark ARNOLD M.P., arrived Tuesday
night for a 3 day pass with his family."
Mark Arnold
(V-365) Merle L.
Arnold
"The Kinmundy Express":
Feb. 14, 1963 – “Farewell Party: A group of young friends and their
parents held a farewell party for Merle ARNOLD, who enlisted in the Air Force in
the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert ELSTON and family last Tuesday night. Merle is
the son of Mr. and Mrs. D.A. ARNOLD. He reported in St. Louis, MO.”
Feb. 21, 1963 - "AB
Merle L. ARNOLD recently entered the U.S. Air Force and left Feb. 7th for
(Lackland AFB), Texas."
May 2, 1963 - “Airman Third Class Merle L. ARNOLD of
Kinmundy is being reassigned to Schilling AFB, Kans for training and duty as an
air policeman. Airman Arnold recently completed U.S. Air Force basic military
at Lackland AFB, Texas. The airman, son of Mr. and Mrs. D.A. Arnold of
Kinmundy, attended
Kinmundy-Alma
High School”
Stanley D. Arnold
and
Steven L. Arnold
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Sept. 14, 1967 – “Two Sons Wounded in Action” – Mr. and
Mrs. Dean Arnold, formerly of the Arnold Chapel community received word that 2
of their sons were wounded in Vietnam, Capt. Stanley D. ARNOLD, a helicopter
pilot, was shot down and wounded in the arm as a bullet came thru the
windshield. His gunner was killed. Capt. Steven L. ARNOLD received injuries of the face and eyes after
a mortar shell was dropped in a group, killing one and injuring fifteen. They
are nephews of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Ballance of this city.”
Dec. 7, 1972 - "Unusual Happenings: Maj. Stanley D.
ARNOLD of Ft. RUCKER, Alabama, and his brother, Major Stephen L. ARNOLD of
Clarksville, Tennessee, will have enviable stories to tell their grandchildren.
Both brothers were wounded in 1968, and each has received numerous decorations.
These native Illinoisans found 1968 a year to remember in more ways than one,
when they came face to face on the other side of the world in Ving Long,
Vietnam. The chances of this happening once is rare enough indeed, but in
October of 1972, again the brothers met at the same place in Vietnam. Both
are married. Stanley has four children, Stephen, two. They are the
sons of Mr. and Mrs. Dean ARNOLD of Decatur, formerly of the Arnold Chapel
community, and nephews of Mr. and Mrs. Dale BALLANCE, Kinmundy."
Sept. 4, 1975 - "Major
ARNOLD Receives Award: Maj. Stanley D. ARNOLD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dean ARNOLD,
Decatur, formerly of the Arnold Chapel community, recently received a Broken
Wing award at Ft. Ruck, Ala., for exceptional flying skill during an in-flight
emergency. An aerospace engineer with the Army Aviation Test Board, he was
cited for his expertise in bringing a JOH-6 helicopter safely to the ground
after a complete engine failure at an altitude of 1000 feet. Major ARNOLD
entered the Army in April 1959. He served in Vietnam in 1963-1965,
1967-1968, and 1972-1973. Among his awards and decorations are the Silver
Star, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Purple Heart. Maj.
ARNOLD is also a nephew of Mr. and Mrs. Dale BALLANCE of Kinmundy."
Theron Arnold
“The Kinmundy Express”:
July 13, 1989 - "Airman
Theron D. ARNOLD has graduated from Air Force basic training at Lackland Air
Force Base, Texas. During the six weeks of training, the airman studied
the Air Force mission, organization and customs and received special training in
human relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn
credits toward an associate degree through community college of the Air Force.
ARNOLD is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ted ARNOLD of Alma, Ill. He is a 1988
graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, Kinmundy."
Aug. 31, 1989 – “Airman Theron D. ARNOLD has graduated from the U.S. Air
Force aircraft maintenance course at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. During the
course, students were taught aircraft maintenance fundamentals to repair and
service one and two-engine jet aircraft. Maintenance management and
documentation was also taught to assess aircraft readiness capability.
Graduates of the course earned credit toward an associate degree through the
Community College of the Air Force. Arnold is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ted
ARNOLD of Alma, IL. He is a 1988 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School.”
Dec. 14, 1989 – “Air Force Airman Theron D. ARNOLD has arrived for duty
at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. ARNOLD is a crew chief with
the 4th Aircraft Generation Squadron. He is the son of Ted and
Brenda ARNOLD of Alma, IL. The airman is a 1988 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High
School.”
Jan. 3, 1991 - "ARNOLD
is the son of Ted and Brenda ARNOLD of Alma, Ill. He too would appreciate
hearing from family and friends, or even our subscribers."
Jan. 24, 1991 – “As Operation Desert Shield escalated to Desert Storm
last Wednesday evening, Jan. 16th, our thoughts and prayers were with
local servicemen stationed in the Middle East. We’re sure they would appreciate
words of encouragement from home. Here are the addresses of some who we know
are involved in the operation …. A1C Theron D. ARNOLD, 4TFW 336AMU Deployed. ….”
May 30, 1991 - "Welcome Home Theron ARNOLD: The Marion County Desert
Storm Committee will be in Kinmundy this Saturday, June 1st at the City Park to
welcome home, Theron ARNOLD. Friends and family will be gathering at the
Park at 3:00 p.m."
June 27, 1991 - "Area Servicemen Welcomed Home from Desert Storm"
Apr. 30, 1992 - "Mr.
and Mrs. Ted FRINK of Goldsboro, North Carolina are pleased to announce the
engagement of their daughter, Anna Marie, to Theron D. ARNOLD, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Ted ARNOLD of Alma, IL. Anna will graduate from Eastern Wayne Senior High
School in June. Theron is a senior airman at Seymour-Johnson Air Force Base,
North Carolina. A wedding is planned for Aug. 8, 1992 at Alma United Methodist
Church.”
R. Raymond Atkins
"The Kinmundy Express"
June 25, 1942 -
"Leaves for Army: Raymond ATKINS and Earl OUTHOUSE left Tuesday morning for St.
Louis where they were inducted into the service. Raymond entered the
induction quarters at Scott Field while Earl came home on a 10-day furlough."
Jan. 21, 1943 -
"Promoted: Raymond ATKINS received his bars last Thursday, making him a Second
Lieutenant. He is enjoying a few days visit here with his mother, Mrs.
Elizabeth ATKINS, and friends, while enroute from Oklahoma to Oregon."
June 24, 1943 - "Mrs.
Elizabeth ATKINS has been entertaining her children the past week, Mrs. Ruth
BACKENSTO and daughters, Donna and Shirley of Hartford, Ill., and Lt. Raymond
ATKINS of Oregon. Lt. ATKINS returned Wednesday to army duty."
July 15, 1943 - "We
have received word that Raymond ATKINS, son of Mrs. Elizabeth and late Dick
ATKINS, has been promoted from second to first Lieutenant on June 14.
Congratulations, Red."
Jan. 13, 1944 - "Mr.
and Mrs. Leland BRASEL spent Sunday in Kinmundy with Mrs. Lizzie ATKINS and son,
Lt. Raymond ATKINS."
Feb. 17, 1944 -"I
want to thank each and every one of you for the nice cards and letters that you
sent on my birthday. Lt. Raymond ATKINS."
May 4, 1944 - "Mrs.
Elizabeth ATKINS has received a cablegram from her son, Lt. Raymond ATKINS
stating he has landed safely overseas."
Sept. 14, 1944 -
"First Lieutenant Richard R. ATKINS of this
city has been awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in action on the
Fifty Army front in Italy. Presentation of the award was made by Major General
William G. LIVESAY, commander of the 91st Infantry Division at a ceremony held
near the front lines. While directing fire from an artillery battery during the
drive to the Arno River, an enemy shell landed 10 yards from ATKINS and set
ammunition afire. Ignoring the enemy shelling and the exploding ammunition
behind him, ATKINS cooly continued to direct fire at the enemy. He also directed
the extinguishing of the burning ammunition and administering of first aid to
his men. The 35 year old officer entered the army June 23, 1942 and was
commissioned at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Jan. 14, 1943."
Aug. 2, 1945 – “Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS received a telegram yesterday morning
stating that her son, Capt. Raymond ATKINS, had landed safely back in the U.S.A.
from Italy where he had been stationed.”
Aug. 9, 1945 – “1st Lt. Raymond ATKINS arrived here Saturday night to spend a 30
day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS, after spending the past 16
months in sunny Italy. Lt. ATKINS entered the service June 23, 1942, and was
commissioned Jan. 14, 1943. The following June, he was advanced to the rank of
1st Lieut. He shipped overseas in March 1944, landing in Oran, Africa. From
there he went to Italy where he remained until Aug. 1, when he sailed for home.
He was a member of the 361st Combat Team, a part of the 91st Division. He
wears the Middle European and Eastern Theater Ribbon, with 3 stars, representing
the battles of Rome-Arno, Northern Appenines and Po Valley. After his leave has
expired, he will report to Ft. Sills, Okla. for further
instructions.”
Dec. 13, 1945 – “Lt. Raymond ATKINS, son of Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS, arrived home
Dec. 11 after receiving his discharge at Fort Sills, Okla., on Dec. 9th. Lt.
ATKINS entered the service June 23, 1942, and was commissioned Jan. 14, 1943.
The following June, he was advanced to the rank of 1st Lieut. He shipped
overseas in March 1944, landing in Oran, Africa. From there, he went to Italy
where he was stationed until August 1st, when he sailed for home. Upon his
arrival in the states, he was granted a 30 day leave which was spent here with
his mother. After his leave expired, he reported for duty at Ft. Sills, Okla.,
where he was stationed until receiving his discharge. Lt. ATKINS was a member
of the 361st Combat Team, a part of the 91st Division. He wears the Middle
European and Eastern Theater Ribbon with 3 stars representing the Rome-Arno,
Northern Apennines and Po Valley Campaigns, the American Theater Ribbon, and the
Victory Ribbon.”
Feb. 7, 1946 –“1st Lt. Raymond ATKINS, who is on terminal leave, received word a
few days ago that he had been promoted to the rank of Captain. His leave will
expire in about a month, after which, he says he will be a civilian again.”
Lewis Atteberry
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Oct. 25, 1945 – “Shriver School: A family gathering was held at the home of Mr.
and Mrs. Edd ATTERBURY. Their son, Lewis, has recently returned from overseas.”
Edward Aumiller
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 16, 1919
Private Edward
AUMILLER of Co. E, 320th Inf. American E.F. writes the following letter from
France:
Dear Friend: I will try once more to write you a few lines. I am all ok. Hope
these few lines will and you the same. I am in France yet still drilling quails
right and left. We are practicing for Parade Work over here and I expect in the
U.S.A. But I don’t know when it will be. I don’t know where Ernest Black of
Odin is. I haven’t heard from him since our division was divided up. I haven’t
heard from any of the boys since then I would like to know where they are. I
was up at the lines once since I have been here. I never got hurt at all it
wasn’t as safe a time as I have seen and I never saw the worst of it. Tell the
other girls I haven’t time to write to them. Will write soon. I haven’t been
where I could write or I would have written before. Don’t think I have
forgotten you or didn’t want to write it was because I was where I couldn’t
write. I haven’t received any letters from anyone since October. Sometimes I
think my friends have lost me and don’t know where I am. I must close with Best
Wishes for a Merry Xmas and A Happy New Year.
Private AUMILLER was in training at Camp Taylor later Camp Sherman and then Camp
Mills. At this time he was a member of Co. I 335 Infantry 84th
Division but has been transferred to the
Co.
given above.
Kreighton "Kraig" Austin
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Oct. 21, 1982 – (From his obituary) “Kreighton "Kraig" AUSTIN, 19, of
Guymon, Oklahoma, formerly of Alma, died Sunday, Oct. 17, 1982 from injuries in
a car-pedestrian accident. He was born in Kansas on March 28, 1963.
He was a Navy veteran and presently employed as a welder in the oil fields in
Oklahoma. Surviving is his mother, Juanita (JOHNSON) AUSTIN, Guymon, OK; 1
brother, Tarrel AUSTIN, Guymon, OK; a sister, Jitona (Austin) Stone of Alma, and
his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Bill JOHNSON of Alma......"
R.D. Austin
“The Kinmundy
Express” - Feb. 17, 1944 - "S/Sgt. R.D. AUSTIN arrived last
Thursday morning at the home of Mr. and Mrs. D.T. UNDERWOOD from a camp in New
River, North Carolina. This is Sgt. AUSTIN's first trip home since he
joined the Marines four years ago. He made his home with the UNDERWOODs
before going into the service. He is a nephew of Mrs. UNDERWOOD."
Juanita "Johnnie" (Johnson) Austin
Served from August 1974 to August 1988.
Military Police, She worked under cover for Behavioral Services With Provost
Marshall's Office.
She was stationed Ft Sheridan, Illinois and transferred to Ft. Carson, Colorado
...among other places.
Fort Morgan Newspaper – Aug. 27, 1974 - “3 Children But
She’s Set for Army Duty”: “A former Fort Morgan woman, who attended schools, was
married and had three children while living here, has been accepted for
enlistment in the Army. She is Juanita AUSTIN, now of California, who was sworn
in Aug. 2 to the reserve on the delayed program and will be sworn in for active
duty Oct. 7. She will be in basic training for two months in Jackson, S.C., and
then will go to the Military Police Academy in Georgia for two months before she
is assigned to a permanent base. Mrs. AUSTIN passed her tests with high grades
and her physical but had to wait for acceptance after submitting a waiver
because of her age, 33, and as she has three children: Jitona, 18, Tarrel, 16,
and Kraig, 11. She was the only applicant with more than one minor at home who
was accepted by the Army. A brother, Bill JOHNSON, Jr., is a police officer at
Sterling and her parents are Mr. and Mrs. William F. JOHNSON of Alma, Ill. An
aunt and uncle are Mr. and Mrs. J.B. JOHNSON of Fort Morgan and Barbara JOHNSON
FRIEHAUF of Wiggins are cousins. Sisters are Bette HARDIN and Karlyn RIPPY.”
“Salem Times-Commoner” Salem, IL – “Army Enlistee: An Alma native,
the 33-year-old mother of three, Juanita JOHNSON AUSTIN, who enlisted in the
United States Army last August, has completed basic training in Alabama and
military police training at Ft. Gordon, Georgia. She was the only applicant
with more than one minor child living in her home who has been accepted. Her
children are Jitona 18, Tarrel 16, and Kraig 11. She is the daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. William F. JOHNSON of Alma. Her mother is employed at Salem Memorial
Hospital as an LPN. Mrs. AUSTIN has recently been transferred to Fort Carson,
Colorado from Fort Sheridan.”
Eugene Baker
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Feb. 3, 1949 – “Omega: Eugene BAKER enlisted in the
army and left for Camp Breckinridge Monday.”
June 2, 1949 – “Omega: Mr. and Mrs. J.R. BAKER received
word Saturday that their son, Eugene, who is in the army in Alabama, had been
injured in an auto accident and was in the hospital in Chattanooga, Tenn.”
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. These can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F. MOTCH -
Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M. Co, Camp
Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F. HOYT -
545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Infantry
Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc. Paul WEST -
U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T. Sgt. Marion M.
HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord. MAM Co.;
Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
March 6, 1952 - Corp. Eugene BAKER arrived from Korea
for a thirty day furlough last week."
June 26, 1952 – “Omega: Gene BAKER, son of Mr. and Mrs.
J.R. BAKER received his discharge from the army and is now at home.”
Bernie Bailey
“The Kinmundy Express” – May 23, 1918 -"Bernie BAILEY who left home recently for
Camp THOMAS in Kentucky has been stationed at Camp WADSWORTH, S.C. for the
present."
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – July 18, 1918;
Camp Mills,
N.Y.; June 30, 1918
Dear
Folks,
I
arrived here yesterday about 4 o’clock and it is sure a fine camp what I have
seen of it. We were 52 hours on the road from Camp Wadsworth. We came through
Philadelphia.
The Red Cross was there and gave us lunch, iced tea, and cigarettes. The Red
Cross sure treats us fine at all the stops we have made. We were in Washington
D.C. two hours, and were served to lunch by President Wilson’s wife.
She
also gave each soldier a checkerboard and dominoes. We went from there to
Baltimore, Md., and then to New York City where we took a boat to Brooklyn. We
were on the boat three hours and then took a Pennsylvania train for camp which is
20 miles from New York. This is a fine looking country. We had a fine bed on
the train Pullman
sleeper; we were on there two nights. I haven’t heard from anyone except Lewis
ROBB and Walter MILLER. Walter is at Camp Sherman in Ohio. Our mail will be
sent from Camp Wadworth to here. We haven’t had any pay yet and haven’t drilled
any for three weeks but won’t drill any here. I think we will stay here about
two weeks and then ______. Air ___ are making so much noise I can’t think of any
thing to write. I saw the largest building in the U.S.A. and Wall Street and
other things. How is everything and everybody? I am fine and dandy. There
were 45,000 ___ this camp last week going across the water. We were not allowed
to tell anything about where we were going while we were on the train. Good
bye.
Bernie BAILEY
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 9, 1919
Nov. 28, 1918
Dear Folks,
I
will now try and write a few lines as today is Thanksgiving and a little bit
chilly, but Private BAILEY is fine and dandy. I have not received any mail for
nearly two months. I left my Co. the first of Nov. and went to the hospital. I
had that disease you call Spanish Influenza. I was well by the time they got me
to the hospital. I was there about a week and have been all the rest of the
time getting back to my Co. and I am not back yet and might not get back but I
hope I will for I know I have lots of mail there. I don’t know when we will get
back to the States, but I hope we get there before long. I was on the Verdun
front when I left the Co. I am close to Bordeaux, that is a large city in
France. I was in the hospital when the Armistice was signed; the boys liked to
tore down that place. We made the Huns say enough and I was one of the guys and
I am still one of the guys. I wish all the boys could say that but of course
there never was a war but what there was some one killed. We are waiting for
them to say “Gang Plank Formation” which means All aboard for U.S.A. and when we
see that Statue of Liberty in N.Y. we will be a happy bunch. We sure have some
frost here. We slept on the ground for a few nights. We would wake up in the
morning and have frost all over our blankets and sometimes our heads would stick out and
catch a little of it. Don’t write to me any more for I won’t get your mail.
With Love, Bernie BAILEY
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Feb. 6, 1919
“Somewhere in
France”; Dec. 26
Dear Father and
all,
Received a letter today dated October 17. You was saying you had not been
getting letters from me. Of course I can’t write as often as you can but I
write when I get an opportunity and of course that is not every day and you
might say not every week, but I do my best and of course, you know that is good.
Christmas is over and I guess I was thought of by homefolks, but listen, don’t
worry about Private BAILEY, for when I do get back we will sit down and have a
good chat all about the war. We were treated fine Christmas and had the best of
eats, pie, cake roast pork, candy and everything and I am sure capable of doing
justice to anything like that. I got a letter from Bert and also Frank, the
latter was wounded, but I guess Bert never got to the front. I wish you
all a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year and when you think of me, think that I am
in a palace of gold and protected by the best of artillery. I believe I told
you not to write when I was in the hospital but now I am with the
Co.,
so keep on writing.
Bernie BAILEY
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – March 13, 1919
France, Jan. 13, 1919
Dear Sister, Brother,
Father and Mother,
Just received a
letter from you dated Nov. 29 so you see I was a long time in getting it
although it was good when it did come. Just think this is the first mail I have
had in a month, but don’t worry about me for I am fine and dandy.
I was called
over to the Orderly room the other day and to my surprise there was a letter to
the Company Commander from home, saying you were not receiving any mail from
me. I sure wrote so don’t put the blame on me. We are billeted in a French
town and drill 5 hours a day. We have football games the rest of the day. The
weather at the present is very good only we have lots of rain. Frank wrote and
told me he wounded, but not so bad. I don’t know when we will sail for the
U.S.A. but I think before long. When I do get there, we will have a big old
time, so just wait patiently and I will land all O.K.
Love to all, Bernie BAILEY
Bert Bailey
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 9, 1919
Somewhere in
France – Dec. 1, 1918
Dear Folks,
It has been some time since I have written you, but I have scarcely had time to
write or do anything else but work. I have been pretty busy night and day but
we are getting things pretty well cleaned up now. Today is the first Sunday I
have had off in France. I am willing to put in double working if it will only
help to get us home sooner. There was some talk of getting us home by Christmas
but we will be in luck if we get to go that soon, considering the time we have
been over here. They have put our company in the First Army and if they do
not change it, we can expect to be on our way before many more weeks.
I
have not had any letters from any of you except Hazel. There were a few letters
forwarded from the states but none direct. I wrote Bernie but did not hear from
him. I hope he did not get in that last drive. If I only knew what division he
was in, I would know about where he is. I know he was in Co. A, 54 Infantry,
but he never said what division. Some of the boys of my Company have ran across
relatives and friends but I have never seen a familiar face among the thousands
of soldiers I’ve seen. We spent some Thanksgiving over here. It rained all day
long. We celebrated by working.
I
was glad to get off today as it gave me a change to get out and explore some of
the country. My pal and I took about a fifteen mile hike. This part of the
country is not so pretty as where we were before. They are still censoring our
mail so we can’t write what we want to, but I don’t think it will be long until
I can tell it all personally. I guess Hazel expected I would come home as soon
as she heard the war was over. I hope she does not have to wait much longer.
It sure has seemed a long time to me but it has been an experience worth the
time. I must close now hoping to see you all soon.
Your son, Bert BAILEY
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Feb. 6, 1919
Coblenz, Germany;
Jan. 12, 1919
Dear Folks,
Well today is Sunday and a work day for us too, but I managed to slip away and
will write a letter. I have had no chance to write the past week as we have
been on the road all the time. We have been placed in the Third army and were
sent up here to occupy this portion of Germany. We have no idea when we will be
home. There is plenty of work here at Coblenz for us for quite awhile, and
unless the Second Army relieves us this spring, we will not get home for some
time yet. We have charge of the clothing ware houses for the Third Army. We
have been doing this same kind of work in France, and hoped to be sent home when
we finished there, but no such luck. I like it fine here though, it is sure a
pretty country. We have not had any cold weather so far. We have good quarters
and plenty to eat and wear so I suppose if we have plenty of patience they will
send us they will send us home in due time. You know it kinda hurts when some
of the boys are going home and you can’t go. They are giving us a chance to see
a little of the world anyway, but they don’t forget to mix quite a little work
along with it.
Coblenz is quite a large place and is on the Rhine river. We get quite a lot of
freedom and have a chance to get out and see some of the city. I guess it will
be some time before I get any mail, as a move always means a wait for mail. I
left Fluery, France, just a week ago today. George MILLER was down to see me
as we were getting on the train to leave. I think they will be kept there for
some time. I outfitted him with boots, shoes, and a leather coat before I
left. His company had not been able to get the many new clothes. I have not
heard any more about the 6th Division so I don’t know whether Bernie
has arrived home yet. I suppose most all the drafted men have returned from the
camps by this time. As it is getting close to supper time will have to close.
Write often and address me the same as usual. Love to all.
Your son,
Bert Bailey
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – March 13, 1919
Coblenz, Germany – Feb. 9,
1919
Dear Folks,
Well I have received a
letter from you at last, it was written Dec. 2, over two months old, but welcome
at that. There is not much to write from here. We never hear anything about
going home and that is the news I wish I could write. It is the same old thing
day after day and it gets tired some. I consider myself lucky tho as long as
can keep well. There is an awful lot of sickness and many of them are dying. I
have not had a sick day since I have been here. I am anxious to hear from
Bernie again. He is with the 6th Division and I wondered if they
were scheduled to return anyways soon. I was reading in the paper not long ago
that they were drilling down in France. They always drill the troops before
sending them home. I am still working at the same old job. The soldiers have
it fine here, they all have to work but the conditions are much better than they
had it in France. Today is Sunday and we had to work a half day but we got the
afternoon off. We don’t have to go work till 8 o’clock in the morning and quit
at 1:15 for dinner, and 4:15 at night.
We have been
having some real winter the past few days but we have plenty of warm clothes. I
went to the Red Cross last week and got sox and a new sweater. We have five
blankets to sleep under so there is no use for us to get cold.
There is sure a
lot of soldiers in Germany now, more Americans than anyone else. They seem to
get along pretty well with the Dutch for some of the fellows even have Dutch
girls. I hope to hear from you soon.
Love to all, Bert BAILEY
“The Kinmundy Express” – Aug. 21, 1919 - "Home from the Service: Ted MILLER and
Bert BAILEY have just arrived home, having received their honorable discharge
from the service. Ted MILLER served with the U.S. Troops on the Mexican
border and Bert Bailey was with the army overseas. Both boys seem very
glad to get home, but no more so than their friends are to see them home again."
Gene Bailey
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Feb. 18, 1954 – “Gene BAILEY arrived at Lackland Air
Force Base,
San Antonio,
Texas, last week for basic training.”
May 20, 1954 – “Pfc. Gene BAILEY of Scott Field spent
the weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.E. BAILEY.”
July 1, 1954 - "Pfc. Gene BAILEY and friend of Scott Field, were
weekend guests at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.E. BAILEY."
Sept. 23, 1954 - "PFC Gene BAILEY, Darrell LUNDER, and Kay ORD,
of Scott Air Force Base, were weekend guests of the former's parents, Mr. and
Mrs. C.E. BAILEY."
March 10, 1955 - "Pfc. Gene BAILEY of Scott Field, and Miss Shirley
BAILEY, of Champaign, spent the weekend with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.E.
BAILEY."
Lloyd Bailey
(V-226b) Lloyd Bailey with his parents, Cecil &
Irene Bailey
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Dec. 17, 1942 -
"Lloyd BAILEY and Donald MILLER left Monday morning for Ft. Sheridan, Ill."
April 1, 1943 - "Pvt.
Lloyd BAILEY returned to Nebraska after a visit here with his parents Mr. and
Mrs. Cecil BAILEY."
Dec. 23, 1943 - "Pvt. Lloyd BAILEY of North Carolina
arrived Saturday for a few days visited with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil
BAILEY and family."
Aug. 17, 1944 -
"Wounded in Action: Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY have received word from their son,
Pvt. Lloyd BAILEY stating that he is in a hospital recovering from a wound
received in action in France. He says he is doing alright and for them
not to worry about him."
Oct. 12, 1944 - "Word
has been received from Sgt. Lloyd BAILEY stating that he has again been slightly
wounded and is now in an English hospital."
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Mr.
and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY received a telephone call from their son, PFC Lloyd BAILEY
from somewhere in Massachusetts Sunday morning stating that he had arrived
safely on this side and was being sent to an Army General Hospital and as soon
as he was located, they would hear from him. PFC Lloyd suffered wounds in
action in France and has been in England."
May
3, 1945 – “S. Sgt. Lloyd BAILEY arrived here Saturday from Washington, D.C. to
spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY and family.
It was a happy reunion of this good family, especially the following day when
all the children were home again, a day looked forward to for the past 2
years. Sgt. BAILEY entered the service Dec. 1, 1942. After training in
various camps in the United States, he shipped overseas in May 1943, as a
paratrooper. He landed in England where he received further training. His
outfit crossed into France on D-Day. Near St. Lo, France on July 31, 1944, he
was wounded by machine gun battles piercing his leg. He was then sent back to a
hospital in England where he recovered. The monotony of this hospital was too
much for him after he was well again. And on Aug. 29, he “went over the hill”,
hitch-hiked a ride across the Channel into France and joined his old outfit in
Belgium. On Sept. 25, near Aachean, Germany, he was wounded again by
a machine gun bullet entering his right wrist, rendering his army useless. He
was again returned to a hospital in England where he received treatment. He
landed back in the States Feb. 2, and entered the Walter Reed Hospital in
Washington, D.C., Feb. 5, where he remained
until coming home. We are happy to report Sgt. BAILEY thinks that in time, with
the great medical skill in the army, he will regain the use of his hand. And we
sure wish him the best of luck with it. He wears the following decorations:
Good Conduct Ribbon, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the European
Theater of Operations Badge with 3 stars, representing the Battles of Normandy,
Southern France and Germany. Sgt. BAILEY says he did not receive our paper
regularly after crossing into France as he was on the move too much. But he did
receive several, mostly in bunches, which sure looked mighty good to him.”
July 5, 1945 – “S. Sgt. Lloyd BAILEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY, arrived
here Thursday evening after spending a few days in Kankakee with this sister,
Miss Juanita BAILEY. He received his discharge papers from the Walter Reed General Hospital in
Washington, D.C., on June 19th on account
of disability. Sgt. BAILEY entered the service on Dec. 1942, and shipped
overseas in May 1943 as a paratrooper. Near St. Lo, France, on July 31, 1944,
he was wounded by machine gun bullets piercing his leg. After recuperating from
these wounds, he was again in the front line. On Sept. 25, 1944, near Aachen,
Germany, he again was wounded by machine gun fire, the bullets penetrating his
right wrist, rendering his hand useless. He landed back in the States on Feb.
2, and was sent to the Walter Reed Hospital, where he has since been a patient.
In May, he was permitted to spend a 30 day furlough here with homefolks. Lloyd
wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the
European Theater of Operation with 3 stars, representing the battles of
Normandy, Southern France and Germany.”
(V-349) Ray Bailey
"The Kinmundy Express":
Feb. 10, 1944 - "Misses Marjorie and Thelma BAILEY
came Saturday night from Dayton, Ohio, Pvt. Ray BAILEY of New Mexico came
Saturday afternoon, Richard and Russell and their father, Bert Bailey, of
Kankakee, Ill., joined the family here Sunday for a weekend visit with Mrs.
Victoria JANCKSON and son, Grover."
July 13, 1944 -
"Here’s one from Cpl. Ray BAILEY, who doesn’t say just where he is located at
the present time. However, we do know that he is overseas some where. He says:
Just a few lines to let you know my new address and to thank you for the paper.
I have been receiving the paper regularly up until a few weeks ago. I guess the
mail will get straightened out soon. The paper really means a lot to us boys
away from home. A lot of the boys from other parts of the country enjoy reading
our hometown paper, too. I know mine is passed around to a lot of the boys. I
wish it was possible to find some of the boys from home, who are in the same are
as I, but it is rather difficult. We are not allowed to tell where we are, but I
like it very much. In closing I wish to thank you again for the paper, and I
hope all the boys are home soon to thank you personally."
Nov. 2, 1944 -
"Here’s a short note from Cpl. Ray BAILEY, who is now in Belgium. He says: I
have only time to write a few lines tonight. I received 5 papers in the past
week, the first since I left England. I wish to thank you very much, as the
hometown paper really means a lot to us over here. I like it better here in
Belgium than I did in France. It is much colder here, but not so damp as in
France. There are a lot of things I would like to tell you about, but I cannot,
as yet. My time and paper are nearly gone so I will close for this time."
Nov. 30, 1944 - "Miss Marjorie Dee BAILEY, daughter of
Bert BAILEY of Kankakee, has accepted a position as clerk in the Office Services
Branch of the Radio and Radar Section, Engineering Division; Air Technical
Service Command, Wright Field. A graduate of Kinmundy H.S. in 1939, Miss BAILEY
held a position as clerk in the post office here for about 2 years after her
graduation. She has 1 brother in the armed forces, Cpl. Ray BAILEY, some where
in Belgium. Miss BAILEY resides in Dayton, Ohio."
Feb. 15, 1945 - "Here’s a short note from Cpl. Ray
BAILEY, who is now in Belgium with a Railway Operations Battalion. The letter
was dated Jan. 7th and was mainly to let us know that his address had changed a
little. Here is what he says: I only have time to write a few lines to thank
you for the paper I have been receiving regularly since I have been overseas.
It is raining today on a foot of snow, it makes it very difficult. There are
several of the home town boys in the same sector as I, but it is very hard to
get together as we are always busy. I am looking forward to the day when we can
all be home and thank you personally for your thoughtfulness."
Jan. 31, 1946 –“Cpl. Ray BAILEY, son of Bert BAILEY, of Kankakee, spent the
first of last week here with his grandmother, Mrs. Victoria BAILEY. He was
discharged at Camp Grant, Jan. 17. Cpl. BAILEY entered the service in Sept.
1943 and shipped overseas in June 1944, landing in England. From there he went
to France, Belgium, Holland and Germany with the
First Army. He sailed from Marseilles,
France for home, Jan. 1, landing in New
York, Jan. 1th. Cpl. BAILEY wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon,
and the European Theater Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the campaigns of
Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes and the Rhineland. As to his
future, Ray says he is undecided at the present.”
Robert "Bob" Bailey
"The
Kinmundy Express"
Sept. 16, 1948 – “In the Army” – “Joe BARGH, Floyd GARRETT, Chuck GARDEN,
Bob BAILEY, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS, of Alma, left Friday for Ft. Knox, Ky. PFC
Jack HOYT and PFC Vernon JEZEK will report to Chanute Field at Rantoul, Ill.,
Wednesday.”
Feb. 17, 1949 - "Robert BAILEY arrived Saturday from
Ft. Devens, Mass., to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY. Robert
recently received his discharge from the army."
(V-140) Dale Baker
Frank Baker
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Jan. 24, 1946 –“Omega: Frank BAKER, who was recently discharged from the army,
spent a few days of last week with his mother, Mrs. Maye BAKER.”
(V-141 & V-406) Curt Ballance
"The Kinmundy Express"
March 18, 1993 – “PV2 Curtis S. BALLANCE has been awarded the award of
Army Achievement Medal (AAM). The medal was awarded for meritorious achievement
while assigned as RTO for 2nd Platoon, C Company, 3/21 Inf. 25th
I D (L). His performance reflects great credit upon himself, Charlie Company
3/21 Infantry and the U.S. Army. BALLANCE is the son of Jerry and Rita BALLANCE
of Kinmundy. He is a 1989 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School and joined the
U.S. Army in May of 1992. He has been stationed at Schofield Barracks, HI since
Oct. 1992, spending the last month at Camp Koncheu in Japan. He is married to
the former Lisa THOMS of Salem. Lisa is employed with C. Lloyd Johnson Co. in
Waipahu, HI. They reside at 98-402 Koauka Loop, Apt. #406, Aiea, HI 96701.”
March 24, 1994 - "Robbie JONES left the St. Louis
Municipal Airport last Thursday for a 10 day trip to Hawaii to visit Curt
BALLANCE, who is stationed there during military service."
Oct. 31, 1996 - "(Sandy Branch West column): My
feature story this week is about a bunch of GI's serving in the Army in the
Middle-East in Saudi Arabia, who read our column and gives us a high mark for
form and substance. Wow. I'm honored and humbly thank you guys for
your kind remarks. Two generations back, I too served in Europe and we
also shared hometown newspapers. "The Kinmundy Express" was special those
days also as we kept up on who was visiting Aunt Mary. Mrs. Freda BALLANCE
of Kinmundy North called to give me the information received from grandson, Curt
BALLANCE, and soldier buddies who are enduring the heat and that disgusting sand
that stays the same the year around. We former soldiers especially
appreciate and are proud of the service to the USA you guys are performing.
Curt is the son of Jerry and Rita BALLANCE of Shepherds Lane, Kinmundy."
Apr. 15, 1999 - "Curt BALLANCE
Completes 61 Day Ranger Training: Army Sergeant Curtis S. BALLANCE has graduated
from the 61-day Ranger training course at the U.S. Army Ranger School, Fort
Benning, Columbus, Georgia. The training phases are conducted at Fort
Benning, in the mountains of northern Georgia, and in the Florida swamps of
Eglin Air Force Base, Valparaiso, Florida. The course is designed to
develop confident and capable small-unit leaders. Additional emphasis is
placed on developing combat functional skills for planning and conducting
ground, airmobile, airborne, and waterborne patrolling operations. The
trainees perform individual and collective tasks and missions in tactically
realistic environments under mental and physical stresses experienced during
combat conditions. BALLANCE, the rifle company team leader, is assigned
to Alpha Company, 172nd Brigade, Fort Wainwright, Fairbanks, Alaska. Curt
resides at 1701 Violin Circle, Fairbanks, with his wife, the former Lisa THOMS
of Salem, and their daughter, Kimberly. Lisa is a sales rep with Steve
Neumuth Advertising Co. and Kimberly attends Ft. Wainwright Child Development
School. Curt is the son of Jerry and Rita BALLANCE, Kinmundy, and grandson
of Freda BALLANCE and the late Dale BALLANCE, and T.R. and Ruby SULLENS.
The sergeant is a 1989 graduate of the Kinmundy-Alma High School. Jerry
and Rita attended the Ranger Graduation at Ft. Benning, Georgina on Jan. 29,
1999 and enjoyed visiting with Curt for a few days before his return to Alaska."
(V-307c) Calvin L. Barbee
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Nov. 30, 1944 - "Calvin BARBEE left Monday for the
Navy."
March 1, 1945- "Junior GARRETT, S2/c and Calvin
BARBEE, S2/c, of Great Lakes, and Lyle SWIFT, EM3/c, of Washington, D.C., are
here visiting with home folks."
March 8, 1945 – “School Notes: - “A dance was held in honor of the
service boys now home on leave, last Wednesday night. The sailors who were
there were: Calvin BARBEE, Junior GARRETT, John MIDDLETON, Lyle SWIFT, and
Dwight GARNER. Yes the fleet was in.”
Jan. 10, 1946 –“Calvin L. BARBEE, QM3c, son of Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE, arrived
home last Monday to spend a leave with relatives and friends. Calvin entered
service in Nov. 1944. He took his boot training at Great Lakes. From there he was dispatched to
Schomaker, Calif., where he was assigned to the
USS Wm. C. Miller, a destroyer escort. Calvin did quite a bit of globe trotting
with a special task force of the Third Fleet, during the 8 months he was
overseas. This group led the attacks of the Gilbert and Marshall Islands, Guam,
Saipan, and Tokyo Bay. This unit was one of the
first to enter Tokyo Bay. Calvin is authorized to
wear the American Theater Ribbon and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 1 Bronze
Star for the Third Fleet’s participation in the operations against Japan.
Calvin arrived back in the States Oct. 17 at the Kaiser Ship Yards, where his
ship was decommissioned. After his leave is up, he reports back to St Louis for
reassignment.”
July 4, 1946 –“Calvin L. BARBEE, QM 3c, son of Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE, who
received his discharge at Great Lakes, June 19th. Calvin was a recent visitor
to Pearl Harbor, Marshall Islands, Carolina
Islands, Guam, Saipan and Tokyo, aboard the Destroyer Escort 59.”
Clarence Barbee
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
Clarence BARBEE
May 29, 1919 - "More Boys Home: In a steady stream,
as rapidly as the transports can ply the ocean, our soldier boys are returning
to their homes and loved ones and among the recent arrivals have been quite a
number of our own boys. The most recent arrivals are: Luzon JOHNSON,
Clarence BARBEE, Clyde FOSTER, Hubert FISHER, Melbourn JONES, Cecil BOUSEMAN,
Francis ROGER, and Eugene BLACK - the two latter being from Patoka and Tonti
respectively. These boys had all seen considerable service on French Lonts
but seem to be little the worse for having passed through the great experience.
With their relatives and friends, the Express joins in extending to them welcome
and wishing for them success in future years Wm. GREEN also returned."
John Barbee
"The Kinmundy Express"
Sept. 6, 1917 - "Off for their Training Camp; Seven
Kinmundy Men in First Five per Cent. Departed For Training Camp Wednesday
- More to Follow Later": At last after what seemed interminable waiting,
marching orders have come for 5% of Marion County's first call quote to the new
Liberty Army. Notices were received late received late Tuesday
evening to report at Salem early Wednesday morning prepared to proceed at once
to the training camp at Louisville, Ky. The instructions to these men are
to bring with them in addition to the clothes they wear, one suit of underwear,
and a toilet and shaving outfit. They will provide their own
transportation to Salem from which point their transportation and meals will be
furnished by the government. Upon arriving at Louisville they will be put
through another examination and if turned down return fare will also be
provided. This summons includes only 5% of the first call in the county
and numbers 15, out of which 7 are called from Kinmundy. Following
is a list of Kinmundy's honor roll: John BARBEE, S.E. LOWE, Fred E. HANKINS,
S.E. ROBB, R.W. SOLDNER, L.E. KLINE and E.O. ZIMMER."
"The Marion County Express"; Kinmundy, Ill.;
May 9, 1918 - "John BARBEE of Camp Taylor is spending furlough here with
his parents, Jeff BARBEE and family."
June 6, 1918 – “John BARBEE, Raymond SOLDNER,
and Clyde PERRY have returned to Camp Taylor after spending several days at home
working on the farm.”
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
John BARBEE
(V-227b) Lyle E. Barbee
“The Kinmundy Express”:
June 28, 1945 – “With the 32nd Division in Northern Luzon, P.I. - Staff
Sergeant, Lyle E. BARBEE of Kinmundy, Ill. has been promoted to his
present rank from that of Corporal. Entering the army in Jan. 1943, he has been
in the SWPA for 24 months. He saw his first combat with the 126th Infantry of
the famed (Red Arrow) Division at Saidor, after which he fought at Aitape,
Morotai and Leyte. Recently he completed 119 consecutive days of action in the
mountainous Lilla Verde-Santa Fe area in northern Luzon. His parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Guy BARBEE and wife, Sarah Olipe, lived in Kinmundy.”
Aug. 9, 1945 – “With the 32nd Division in Northern Luzon, P.I. - Staff Sergeant
Lyle E. BARBEE, who lives in Kinmundy, Ill., has been awarded the
Combat Infantry Badge for exemplary conduct under enemy fire. Entering the army
in Jan. 1945, he has been with the 126th Infantry of the famed 32nd (Red Arrow)
Division in the SWPA for 25 months. He is a veteran of Saidor, Aitape, Morotai,
and Leyte operations, and saw action in the Villa Verde-Santa Fe area in
northern Luzon, where the 32 killed more than 9,000 Japanese during it’s 119 day
drive up the tortuous Villa Verde Trail in the Caraballo Mountains. His wife,
Sarah Olive, lives in Kinmundy.”
Oct. 25, 1945 – “S. Sgt. Lyle E. BARBEE arrived home on Oct. 17th with his
discharge from the army. His wife, Sarah, and 2 children and his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Guy BARBEE reside in Kinmundy. Lyle entered the army on Jan. 12,
1943, and shipped overseas on May 15, 1943 landing in Australia. He was then in
the beach landing on Saidor, and was also in the Aitap, Morati, Leyte, and Luzon
campaigns. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, Asia-Pacific Theater Campaign
Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, awarded 3 bronze stars for the New Guinea,
Leyte, and Luzon Campaigns, and 5 overseas bars. Lyle arrived in Seattle, Wash. on Oct. 7, and was sent
to Jefferson Barracks where he received his discharge. His plans for the future
are undecided, as he wants to catch up on visiting with his daughter, as this
was their first meeting.”
Nov. 1, 1945 – “A picture was printed of S. Sgt. Lyle BARBEE, who arrived home
Oct. 17th after receiving his discharge. He is a veteran of the Asiatic-Pacific
Theater.”
(V-228b)William J. Barbee
"The Kinmundy Express":
Sept. 24, 1942 - "In Pensacola: William J. BARBEE, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. BARBEE of Kinmundy, who recently enlisted in the Naval
service, has been transferred to the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida,
the "Annapolis of the Air," according to an announcement from the public
relations office of that station. He enlisted at the local (St. Louis)
recruiting office in July as an apprentice seaman and was sent to the Great
Lakes Naval Training Station for preliminary training. BARBEE is one of
the many men in the Navy today who have voluntarily joined their country's
fighting forces for service wherever they may be needed, and at the same time,
have the opportunity of building their futures in profitable, established
trades."
Jan. 27, 1944
- "Here’s one from Bill BARBEE, S2 c, who is
sailing the seven seas. He says: Just a few lines to thank you for the paper. I
am getting it almost every week now and enjoy it very much, even the other boys
read it and ask who is this and did you know them. They read the letters from
some of the boys and laugh and say I wish I could write him a letter. I believe
they would stop talking about being on maneuvers and how rugged it was.
Maneuvers are just a small part of what most of them will probably go thru with
before it is over, but let’s hope not. It is good to know what a soldier goes
thru before he goes overseas. But as for sleeping on rocks, I believe they
usually can find a smooth place to lay. My address has changed a little as you
will see from the last one. I can’t write much as you would like to know, but
maybe some day I can write more freely and give you the low down on things.
Thanks again for the paper and tell everyone I said ‘hello’."
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Home from the Aleutians - William BARBEE,
Cox., arrived here last week to spend a 20 day leave with his mother, Mrs. Maude
BARBEE. Coxswain BARBEE has been stationed in the Aleutians Islands for
the past 18 months and can tell some mighty interesting experiences while there.
He landed back in the States on Jan. 5th, and he was mighty glad to set foot on
American soil once more. He is enjoying his leave here with his mother
and other relatives but says he misses a great many of his old chums. He
will leave here next week for Jacksonville, Fla., where he will be stationed for
awhile."
Nov. 1, 1945 – “William J. BARBEE, Coxswain, son of Mrs. Maude BARBEE, arrived
home Oct. 25, after receiving his discharge from the Navy at Great Lakes, Ill.,
the day previous. William entered the service
July 17, 1942, and received his
boot training at Great Lakes, Ill. After boot training, he reported to
Pensacola, Fla., and from there
to Seattle, Wash. He left Seattle July 22,
1943 for the Aleutian Islands where he saw
some action and was stationed there until his return to the states,
January 5, 1945. At that time,
he was granted a 30 day leave, which was spent here with his mother. After his
leave expired he reported for duty at Jacksonville, Fla., where he remained
until being sent to Great Lakes for his discharge. William wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon.”
Nov. 8, 1945 – “A picture was printed of William J. BARBEE, Coxswain, son of
Mrs. Maude BARBEE, who received his discharge from the Navy, Oct. 24th. He
spent 18 months in the Aleutian Islands.”
George H. Bargh
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 20, 1917 - George BARGH Writes of Life at Camp
Custer. More News to Follow: Once scarcely knows what to say concerning
life at Camp Custer that will be of general interest. There is much to
describe, much not to say, and one runs the danger of narrating incidents that
at the time of their happening seem full of color, but in the telling may appear
drab or commonplace. As one visitor (and there are many of them now) said
after passing through, 'We saw piles of onions that would make you weep, we saw
motor trucks carrying everything from steam radiators to loaves of bread, we saw
a man standing outside before a little mirror shaving, we saw an open air
machine shop, we saw thousands of laborers standing in line for their meal -
this we saw and much more. Camp Custer is located 6 miles nearly west of
Battle Creek, which city is approximately midway between Detroit and Chicago.
The buildings range in cresent shape and mount up and down the hills in a truly
picturesque manner. Something over half of the 2000 buildings are now
completed. The immensity of the camp cannot be realized unless one ploughs
through the sand from one of it to the other, or climbs one of the distant
hills, or better still, one of the observation signal towers and looks at the
long parallel rows of buildings with ever and ever new ones springing from the
ground. Battle Creek is called a city of 35,000 yet the wooden barracks of
the camp will be November 1 house considerably more people than can be found in
Battle Creek. To take care of the thousands of men who are coming,
trainloads of provisions are arriving daily, a post bakery has already been
built and an ice factory is practically completed and a modern laundry has been
commenced. There are about 1000 men and officers in camp and they
represent almost every branch of the service, even a base hospital unit and
bakers and a cooks school. Four companies of Michigan militia, now
federalized, are doing guard doing temporarily. Most of the national army
men will be formed into infantry, but there will also be some formed into
artillery, lumbering and sapping and mining units. There is some
indication that special emphasis will be placed at this camp on motor
transportation companies. The national army men are coming in a few
hundred a day until Sept. 19 when 14,000 will arrive. They come from both
Wisconsin and Michigan. They are a good looking bunch of fellows and for
the most part are entering into their training with the right kind of spirit.
Last night I passed one of their barracks and saw 8 of them going through the
elementary squad movement under the more or less uncertain commands of another
in their number. At another place a group was eagerly clustered around a
captain listening to some first hand pointers. Many of the men carried
flags with them when they arrived at camp and these flags are now in their
quarters. As to meals, quarters, etc., we cannot complain, as to worn,
that's an every day affair; as to other things, more some other time.
George H. BARGH, Q.M.C.
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 9, 1918 - "Quartermaster Sargent George H.
BARGH, who is stationed at Camp Custer, Mich., came home Wednesday morning to
spend a 10 day furlough with his parents, E.C. BARGH and family."
Sept. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France - Q.
M. Sarg. George BARGH
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
Lieut. George BARGH
George H. "Junior" Bargh
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 17, 1945 – “Leaves for Army: Junior BARGH, son of Mrs. Mildred BARGH,
left Tuesday evening for Chicago to be inducted into the armed forces.
Junior has been attending the University of Illinois. He gave up his
studies Friday that he might spend a few days at home before induction."
July 19, 1945 - "Pvt. George BARGH, Jr., is enjoying a furlough
here with his family and friends. Jr. has just completed his basic training in
Texas."
Jan. 24, 1946 - "PFC George Junior BARGH has returned to Kearns,
Utah after enjoying furlough here with his mother, Mrs. Mildred BARGH, and
brother, Joe."
March 21, 1946 - "Promoted: George Jr. BARGH has been
promoted to the rank of Corporal. Cpl. BARGH is stationed at Kearns,
Utah."
Sept. 5, 1946 - "Home: Sgt. George BARGH returned home
last Friday after serving 16 months in the army. Sgt. BARGH was stationed
in Kearns, Utah. After his discharge next Monday, Sept. 9, George will
return to his studies at U. of I., Champaign."
Joseph "Joe" Bargh
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 6, 1948 – “In the Army” – “Joe BARGH, Floyd GARRETT, Chuck GARDEN,
Bob BAILEY, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS, of Alma, left Friday for Ft. Knox, Ky. PFC
Jack HOYT and PFC Vernon JEZEK will report to Chanute Field at Rantoul, Ill.,
Wednesday.”
Dec. 30, 1948 - "Joe BARGH of
Ft. Dix, N.J., Floyd GARRETT, Chuck GARDEN, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS stationed at
Fort Devens, Mass., spent Christmas with home folks."
Feb. 10, 1949 – “Recruit Joseph BARGH, son of Mrs.
Mildred R. BARGH of Kinmundy, has completed a course of study for Army Clerks
with the 47th Specialist Training Regiment of the 9th
Infantry Division, Fort Dix, N.J”
Sept. 7, 1950 - "Pfc Joe BARGH left Monday for Sandy
Hook, N.J., after spending the weekend here with his mother, Mrs. Mildred
BARGH."
Aug. 30, 1951 – “Sgt. Joe BARGH, son of Mrs. Mildred
BARGH, arrived home Friday night after a year in Japan and Korea. He is on
furlough and will be discharged upon his return to camp.”
Don Barksdale
"The Kinmundy Express”:
March 20, 1980 - "Airman Don E. BARKSDALE, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Jackson J. BARKSDALE, rural Kinmundy, has been assigned to Chanute Air
Force Base, Illinois, after completing Air Force basic training. During
the six weeks at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, the airman studied
the Air Force mission, organization and customs and received special training in
human relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn
credits toward an associate degree in applied science through the Community
College of the Air Force. The
airman will receive specialized instruction in the missile maintenance field.
Airman BARKSDALE is a 1976 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School."
June 12, 1980 - Airman Don E. BARKSDALE, son of Mr.
and Mrs. John J. BARKSDALE of Rural Route 1, Kinmundy, Ill., has graduated from
the U.S. Air Force missile mechanic course conducted at Chanute Air Force Base,
Rantoul, Ill. Graduates of the course studied maintenance of missiles and
related support equipment and earned credits towards an associated degree in
applied science through the Community College of the Air Force. Airman
BARKSDALE will now serve at Minot Air Force Base, N.D. The airman is a
1976 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School."
(V-407) John Jackson "Jack" Barksdale
“The Kinmundy Express”:
May 14, 1953 - "Pvt. Jack J. BARKSDALE spent the weekend with his
wife, Paula, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.J. BARKSDALE."
Oct. 8, 1953 - "Pvt. Jack BARKSDALE left last Monday, after a
furlough here with relatives and friends for Washington where he will receive a
new assignment."
Sept. 9, 1954 – “Pfc. Jackson BARKSDALE, whose wife,
Paula, lives on Rt. 2, Alma, is now serving in Korea with the 3rd
Infantry Division. The “Rock of Marne” division which saw bitter fighting in
the Iron Triangle and at Outpost Harry, is now training as part of the U.S.
security force on the peninsula. Son of H.J. BARKSDALE, Salem, and is a
member of Battery B of the 3rd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion. He
entered the army in Apr. 1953, and has been in Korea since last November.”
April 7, 1955 – “Mr. and Mrs. H.J. BARKSDALE were hosts
Sunday at a dinner honoring their son, Cpl. Jack BARKSDALE, who was home for the
weekend before reporting to Ft. Sheridan for separation from the Armed Forces.
Cpl. BARKSDALE has just finished 18 months service in Korea. The dinner was
also a delayed birthday celebration for Cpl. BARKSDALE and his sister, Janet.
Five generations were represented. Guests included: Mr. and Mrs. Clarence
BARKSDALE, Mr. Will COX, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. LONG, Mrs. Etta BARKSDALE, Cpl. and
Mrs. Jack BARKSDALE, and daughter, Judy.”
Joseph B. Barr
"The Kinmundy Express” –
May
30, 1968 - "Visit Wounded Grandson: Mr. and Mrs. Carroll JONES of Bismarck, Mo.,
were visiting in and around Kinmundy Saturday. They reported that they
were leaving Monday to visit their grandson, Cpl. Joseph B. BARR, U.S.M.C. at
Great Lakes Naval Hospital, who is recuperating from shrapnel wounds and the
loss of his left eye while in Viet Nam. Cpl. BARR received the Purple
Heart, Bronze Star, his wings, and Air Medals from over 240 missions on
Helicopter Rescue Missions. He is the 2nd son of the former Jeanette
JONES."
(V-479) Lester Basom and his
wife, Marie (Embser) Basom
"The Kinmundy Express":
Dec. 9, 1943 - "Mr. and Mrs. Frank EMBSER and
daughter, Mrs. Lester BASOM, spent Thanksgiving with Mrs. BASOM's husband, who
is stationed in Texas."
Jan. 13, 1944 - "Lester BASOM of the armed forces is
spending a furlough here with his wife and other relatives."
Everett D. Bass
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Apr. 20, 1944 - "And here's one from Pvt. Everett
BASS, a brother to Robert. He is also in England and says: "I want to say
hello and to let you know I am getting along fine. I often wish I could
come in and visit you and all of my friends in your vicinity. But that
will have to wait until I come back home. I have been in the service 18
months. There are 3 of us brothers overseas and one somewhere in the South
Pacific. The people here are just common people who have been under the
burden of this war, but their spirits are really high in such conditions.
The scenery is really beautiful. They are not as modern here as they are
in the States, but it can't be helped. The conditions are not too bad
here. The American Red Cross is doing a wonderful job for our boys in the
hospitals. They couldn't ask to be treated any better. I have spent
a few months in the hospital with a bad knee, but my knee is like new again. I
haven't received the Kinmundy Express yet but expect to soon. I sent
regards to those especially the ones around Meadow Branch School. I have
several school pals there who I often think of. Many of them are married
and several are in the service. I wish that we could have an old school
picnic after we get home and talk about our school days. Marshall and bob
are also near me. I have seen Bob and hope to see Marshall soon. I
am following the same trade that my father followed for several years and hope
to continue when I get back home."
March 8, 1945 - "Here's a letter from Pvt. Everett
D. BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, of Rock Falls, Ill, but formerly of this
city. The letter was dated 14 February, Somewhere in France, and says:
"Thought I would drop you a few lines to let you know that I have not forgotten
my friends from my hometown. I was wondering why I was not getting the
paper, but it is coming O.K. now. I was noticing the last paper I received
which had the list of all the boys from Kinmundy; my youngest brother, Pearl E.
BASS, was missing from the list. He has been in the service since Sept.
1943. He is now in Manila. Robert is in Belgium, and Marshall in
France. They are all well. Pearl received a slight bullet wound in
his arm but is going strong again. I have had a lot of experience with the
enemy indirect, but I am sure lucky. I will never forget one time when I
was under mortar and artillery fire for 6 or 7 hours. It was nerve
racking. I was in on the German Bulge in Luxembourg, also experienced the
liberation of Colmar. I have been in all 4 countries and I think
Luxembourg has the best scenery. It was a tourist country before the war.
It is a quiet cool place in the summer time. I met one fellow from Boston,
Mass., who was in the last war. He was discharged in 1918 and he went back
to Luxembourg and married. He said he was going back to Boston when this
war is over. Well, I must close this time. Good-by and good luck to
all my old friends and neighbors on the homefront."
April 5, 1945 -
“Here’s one from Pvt. Everett BASS, now Somewhere in Germany. Everett is the
son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, former residents of this city. He says: Just a
few lines to let you know that I am receiving the paper O.K. I look forward for
each issue. I have been in combat several months and I have been in some tough
spots. I met one of the boys from near Kinmundy. His name is S. Sgt. Hillard
MORRIS. I just had time to talk with him for a few minutes, but we enjoyed our
visit very much. He has a mortar squad. I had word from my brother, who was
slightly wounded in Manila. He was hit by a sniper’s bullet in the arm, but is
still going strong. It will be nice when all of us can come home to our loved
ones.”
April 19, 1945 – “Here’s one from Pvt. Everett BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe
BASS, former residents of this city. His letter is dated 4 April in Germany,
and says: Just a few lines to let you know that I am still receiving the
Kinmundy Express and enjoy it very much. I am Somewhere in Germany. We are
forbidden to fraternize with the civilians, but otherwise conditions are not so
bad. The scenery is certainly beautiful. The rolling hills, green grass, trees
budding, etc. They have small patches of soil plowed here and there and it
makes a pattern like quiltwork. Easter has come and gone and I hope by next
Easter that all of us can be home with our loved ones. I met Sgt. Hillard
MORRIS a few days ago and had a short talk with him. He is looking fine and
healthy. It looks as though this war may be over and it sure can’t be too
soon. Well, I must say Cheerio to everyone.
Aug. 16, 1945 – “With the 28th Infantry Division in Assembly Area Command - PFC
Everett D. BASS is enroute home from the European Theater of Operations with the
veteran “Bloody Division”, which in 8 months saw vicious combat action from
Normandy’s hedge rows to the heart of the Reich. The 28th quits its
occupational duties in Germany July 5th and moved to Camp Pittsburgh, one of Assembly Area
Command’s 17 redeployment camps near Reims. Entering action July 30, 1944, at
St. Lo, the “Bloody Bucket” men battled across Normandy, paraded through Paris,
proceeded east through Belgium and Luxembourg, and smashed into the Sigfried
Line Sept. 11th - the first troops to enter Germany in strength. After its
November fight in Hurtgen Forest, the 28th moved to the “quiet” Luxembourg
sector. On Dec. 16, it caught full force of Von Rundstedt’s Ardnesses
offensive. Quickly recuperating, the 28th moved south to help liberate Colmar
in Alsace and drive to the Rhine. Within a month, it was again at the Rhine
near Coblenz. PFC BASS is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, R.R. 2, Rock Falls, Ill., formerly of this city.”
Dec. 27, 1945 - "BASS Family Reunion: The family of
Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, formerly of this city, enjoyed the gathering of their
family at their home in Rock Falls, Ill., on Sunday, Dec. 16. All were
present except two, who were unable to come, their son, Elwin BASS and family of
Centralia, and daughter and family, Mrs. Malcom RICE of Hot Springs, Ark.
The day was spent visiting and taking pictures. Mr. and Mrs. BASS enjoyed
having their four sons with them, who saw action overseas, three of whom are
discharged. Their son, Pearl E., is at Schicks General Hospital in
Clinton, Ia., and expects to be discharged in about 4 months. Also as a
special guest was the fiance of their son, Everett, Miss Roberta RAYMOND.
This was the first time in four years that their four soldier sons were together
and it will be a day that will be long remembered."
Marshall Bass
“The Kinmundy Express”:
March 8, 1945 - "Here's a letter from Pvt. Everett
D. BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, of Rock Falls, Ill, but formerly of this
city. The letter was dated 14 February, Somewhere in France, and says:
".....I was noticing the last paper I received which had the list of all the
boys from Kinmundy; my youngest brother, Pearl E. BASS, was missing from the
list. He has been in the service since Sept. 1943. He is now in
Manila. Robert is in Belgium, and Marshall in France. They are all
well. Pearl received a slight bullet wound in his arm but is going strong
again..."
Dec. 27, 1945 - "BASS Family Reunion: The family of
Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, formerly of this city, enjoyed the gathering of their
family at their home in Rock Falls, Ill., on Sunday, Dec. 16. all were
present except two, who were unable to come, their son, Elwin BASS and family of
Centralia, and daughter and family, Mrs. Malcom RICE of Hot Springs, Ark.
The day was spent visiting and taking pictures. Mr. and Mrs. BASS enjoyed
having their four sons with them, who saw action overseas, three of whom are
discharged. Their son, Pearl E., is at Schicks General Hospital in
Clinton, Ia., and expects to be discharged in about 4 months. Also as a
special guest was the fiance of their son, Everett, Miss Roberta RAYMOND.
This was the first time in four years that their four soldier sons were together
and it will be a day that will be long remembered."
Michael L. Bass
“The
Kinmundy Express”
May 31, 1990 - "Pvt. 1st Class Michael L. BASS has completed
basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. During the training, students
received instruction in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics,
military courtesy, military justice, first aid, and Army history and traditions. He is the son of Carol S.
and Roy L. BASS of Salem, Ill. The private graduate in 1985 from
Salem Community High School, and received an associate degree in 1989 from
Kaskaskia College, Centralia, Ill."
Jan. 7, 1993 - "Completes Leadership Course: Spec.
Michael L. BASS has completed a U.S. Army primary leadership course from
Campbell Barracks, Heidelberg, Germany. Students received training in
supervisory skills, leadership principles, and small unit training techniques
essential to a first-line supervisor in a technical or administrative
environment. BASS, a graphics documentation technician, is the son of Roy
L. and Carol BASS of 539 E. Boone, Salem. His wife, Nicole, is the
daughter of Bill and Audie Cowie of Centralia. The specialist graduated in
1985 from Salem Community High School, and received an associate degree in 1988
from Kaskaskia Community College, Centralia."
Oliver M. Bass
“The
Kinmundy Express”
May 11, 1944 - "Here’s one from Pvt.
Oliver BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, who used to live here. He is at
present in England and says: I am alright. Bob and Everett and myself are
somewhere in England. They have met each other, but I haven’t met them yet. My
youngest, brother Pearl Eugene, is in the cavalry somewhere in the Pacific. He
was 18 last August. I have received the paper and saw the names of many of my
old school chums in the service list. I believe Roy DOOLEN, if he is Cleve
DOOLEN’s boy, I went to school with him at Swift School. Rex GAMMON, Joe and
Anne SLOVICK and many of the boys of hat age I went to school with are now in
the service. I am in a gun battalion while Bob is in the Medical Detail of
Engineers, and Everett is in the Engineers."
Dec. 27, 1945 - "BASS Family Reunion: The family of Mr. and Mrs. Joe
BASS, formerly of this city, enjoyed the gathering of their family at their home
in Rock Falls, Ill., on Sunday, Dec. 16. all were present except two, who
were unable to come, their son, Elwin BASS and family of Centralia, and daughter
and family, Mrs. Malcom RICE of Hot Springs, Ark. The day was spent
visiting and taking pictures. Mr. and Mrs. BASS enjoyed having their four
sons with them, who saw action overseas, three of whom are discharged.
Their son, Pearl E., is at Schicks General Hospital in Clinton, Ia., and expects
to be discharged in about 4 months. Also as a special guest was the fiance
of their son, Everett, Miss Roberta RAYMOND. This was the first time in
four years that their four soldier sons were together and it will be a day that
will be long remembered."
Pearl E. Bass
“The Kinmundy Express”:
March 8, 1945 - "Here's a letter from Pvt. Everett
D. BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, of Rock Falls, Ill, but formerly of this
city. The letter was dated 14 February, Somewhere in France, and says:
".....I was noticing the last paper I received which had the list of all the
boys from Kinmundy; my youngest brother, Pearl E. BASS, was missing from the
list. He has been in the service since Sept. 1943. He is now in
Manila. Robert is in Belgium, and Marshall in France. They are all
well. Pearl received a slight bullet wound in his arm but is going strong
again..."
Aug. 23, 1945 – “Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS of Rock Falls, former residents of
Kinmundy, have received word from their son, Sgt. Pearl E. BASS, telling them he
has been suffering with a broken leg. He was injured by a falling coconut
tree. Another son of theirs, Everett D., is home after serving 22 months in the
E.T.O. He served in Normandy, Northern France, Germany and Central Europe. He
is authorized to wear 5 bronze campaign stars. He will report Sept. 7 at Camp Grant for reassignment.”
Dec. 27, 1945 - "BASS Family Reunion: The family of
Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, formerly of this city, enjoyed the gathering of their
family at their home in Rock Falls, Ill., on Sunday, Dec. 16. all were
present except two, who were unable to come, their son, Elwin BASS and family of
Centralia, and daughter and family, Mrs. Malcom RICE of Hot Springs, Ark.
The day was spent visiting and taking pictures. Mr. and Mrs. BASS enjoyed
having their four sons with them, who saw action overseas, three of whom are
discharged. Their son, Pearl E., is at Schicks General Hospital in
Clinton, Ia., and expects to be discharged in about 4 months. Also as a
special guest was the fiance of their son, Everett, Miss Roberta RAYMOND.
This was the first time in four years that their four soldier sons were together
and it will be a day that will be long remembered."
Robert L. Bass
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Apr. 20, 1944 –
“Here's a letter from T/4 Robert L. BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, who used
to live here. He is at present in England and says: "I am writing you a
few lines to let you know I have received the Kinmundy Express for the first
time yesterday, and was sure glad to get it. Having spent 20 years of my
life around and in Kinmundy, I sure enjoy getting the hometown news. Altho
a lot of the older generation have moved, I still remember a lot of the names in
the paper. I sure would like to have Lt. DOOLEN's address as I am here in
England too, and have been around quite a bit and can vouch for all the things
he has said about this country and add a few more. The people here as a
whole are very nice to us soldiers, and so we have a pretty good time when we
are not working. I enjoy those letters from the boys overseas that you pit
in the paper. I think all of us boys will have some very good stories to
tell when we get back home. I have seen North Africa. You can guess
the rest. Well, I might as well close for this is about all I can write for this
time. Keep the papers coming as they help to keep up our morale."
July 5, 1945 – “Here’s a nice letter from T4 Robert BASS, dated 10 June,
Eisloben, Germany. He says: Just a few
lines to let you know how much I am enjoying the Kinmundy paper. I like best to
read the nice letters you print in it from the boys of Kinmundy. I sure wish I
could meet some of them. I am now at Eisloben,
Germany. It sure has been a
long road from Normandy Beach. I am sure a lot
of the Kinmundy boys have traveled through the same country I have. I say
traveled, because you see, I wasn’t exactly in the front lines, being in the
medics and with an Engineer Battalion Aid Station. A lot of the boys are in the
front lines building bridges under enemy fire. I consider myself lucky as I
have never heard a bullet sing past my head, but have heard plenty of 88 shells
coming and have had several close calls from bombs at the beaches of St. Lo, and
in Germany. I sure wish I could of visited with Lt. Grace ARNOLD. You see, we
used to live neighbors with them when they lived on the George REESE place, west
of town. I never was able to find out what hospital she worked at. I was sure
glad to hear she was back in the states again. I sure hope when some of the
boys I know write to you again they are able to say what town they are in and
what outfit, so I can be on the lookout for them. Well, Mr. VALLOW, this is
about all I can think of this time, and I thank you again for the paper and so
long for this time.”
Sept. 27, 1945 – “Here’s a nice letter from T4 Robert BASS, who is now on his
way home from France. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS of
Rock Falls, Ill., and former
residents of this community. He says: Just a few lines this time to say Hello
and let you know that I will be on my road home in the near future. So if my
subscription runs out, just stop sending the paper. I will try to renew it when
I get home. The last paper I received was dated Aug. 23rd and I want you to
know, that I have enjoyed your paper very much. I was hoping to see Lt. ATKINS,
but of course, he was in Italy. There has been several boys from Kinmundy over
here but I wasn’t lucky enough to see them. I was sorry that I missed D.A.
ARNOLD and his sister, Lt. Grace. But was sure glad they got home safe. As I
understand it, Lt. Grace is in the hospital in Denver, Colo. I hope she gets
well soon, and while she is there she should try to visit the Garden of the Gods
and Seven Falls. There are a lot of other places there that are very
interesting too. These places are at Colorado Springs, Colo., which is about 30
or 40 miles south of Denver. You see, I spent about a year at
Camp Carson, which is located
about 6 miles south of Colorado Springs. It is about the most beautiful spot I
have ever visited. Well, Mr. VALLOW, news is short so I will close for this
time. Give my best regards to the old-timers around Kinmundy and I hope to make
Kinmundy a visit when I get home. I want to thank you again for the paper. I
have enjoyed it very much.”
Dec. 27, 1945 - "BASS Family Reunion: The family of
Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, formerly of this city, enjoyed the gathering of their
family at their home in Rock Falls, Ill., on Sunday, Dec. 16. all were
present except two, who were unable to come, their son, Elwin BASS and family of
Centralia, and daughter and family, Mrs. Malcom RICE of Hot Springs, Ark.
The day was spent visiting and taking pictures. Mr. and Mrs. BASS enjoyed
having their four sons with them, who saw action overseas, three of whom are
discharged. Their son, Pearl E., is at Schicks General Hospital in
Clinton, Ia., and expects to be discharged in about 4 months. Also as a
special guest was the fiance of their son, Everett, Miss Roberta RAYMOND.
This was the first time in four years that their four soldier sons were together
and it will be a day that will be long remembered."
Roy Bass
Roy served his country for two years, including one year in Germany.
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Aug. 15, 1957 - "Roy BASS in Service: Anyone wishing to write Roy BASS,
who is at present stationed in Missouri, here is his address: Pvt. Roy BASS, Co.
D, 2nd BR, 5th Training Regt., Basic, Fort Leonard Wood, Mo."
Jan. 9, 1958 - "Mr. and Mrs. Roy BASS of Fort Gordon, Ga., visited Mr.
and Mrs. C.E. WILKINSON, Thursday afternoon."
Florence (Doolen) Bassett
"Salem Republican" - "Jan. 26, 1943"
(Editor’s note: The following article was
written at the request of The Salem Republican by Miss Florence Doolen,
Kinmundy, first Marion County girl to become a member of the Women’s Army
Auxiliary Corps (WAACS). Miss Doolen for the past five months has been in
training at Des Moines, Iowa, recently being transferred to the 89th
Headquarters company, 3rd WAAC training center, Fort Oglethorpe, Ga.
She participated last month in the sixth month anniversary of the opening of the
first WAAC training center in Fort Des Moines.)
"County’s First WAAC, Miss Florence Doolen, Writes of Training" by Miss Florence
Doolen, WAAC Officer"
"Special to The Salem Republican";
"FORT OGLETHORPE, Ga., Jan 25 - Basic training
at Fort Des Moines, Iowa, consisted of four strenuous weeks of hut, two, three,
four; column right, march; to the right flank, left flank, about fact; and so
forth, as well as classes and physical training. I was assigned to the Motor
Corps, completed an eight weeks course, and was an assistant instructor until I
was sent to Fort Oglethorpe, Ga., with the Headquarters Company. We left Des
Moines on New Year’s Day. Since then I have been transferred to the
classification office and I am very much interested in my work there. We were
sent here to set up a WAAC training center which is to open February 1st.
They are preparing to house 10,000 WAACs at this post. In my
estimation Fort Oglethorpe is an ideal place for a camp. It is only ten miles
from Chattanooga and is at the foot of the Smokey Mountains. Many are
especially interested in this place because it was the battlefield on which
their grandfathers fought in the Civil War days.
Southern
Hospitality No Myth - We find the southern hospitality no myth. We are welcomed
at every hand. Individuals as well as civic and church organizations have
planned luncheons and socials for our enjoyment. We surely appreciate these
invitations. A WAAC training center can be compared to a small community.
Recruits from almost every walk of civilian life are represented here and they
come from every state in the Union. There are doctors, lawyers, policewomen,
housewives, office workers, teachers, opera stars, drivers, entertainers,
artists, newspaper people, and some have no special training but each find this
her place, and an important place it is, too; all are assembled for the one
great mission to help where and whenever we can to win this war. Now
something about our daily life. We get up a 6 a.m. and stand reveille at 6:30,
make our bunks and clean the barracks, perform any special duties that may be
assigned. We drill three mornings a week, go to work at 8 o’clock and have a
full schedule throughout the day. To me the most impressive part of the whole
army daily routine is the standing of retreat.
No Wishy-Washy Affair - This business of being
a WAAC is no wishy-washy affair. You see no glamour girls in the WAACS. They
are hard-working women in olive-drab uniforms. The days are filled with hard
work, but after those hours and a good evening meal at 5:15 (and WAACS develop a
wonderful appetite), come the hours of relaxation. The girls spend these hours
very much like the men do - in writing letters to the friends and family back
home, going to the Post movies, or by gathering around the piano for a little
music and getting acquainted with other members of the group. Lights are out at
9:30 and bed check at 10:45 p.m., when we must be in bed. There
are some 15,000 WAACS enrolled in the organization now, and a number of
companies have already been sent to various army camps where they replace men
for combat duty. Our ratings, which will compare with army ratings, have
not been published as yet, though in a great many cases a rating has been earned
and the enrollee is fulfilling the duties of that rank. We here have been
promised that the ratings will be announced and awarded soon. On
Wednesday of this week we observed the sixth month anniversary of the opening of
the first WAAC training center at Fort Des Moines. Here at Fort Oglethorpe we
had a special parade and review with film and camera men on hand for some
special release pictures. It was a thrilling day. There is much to
be said
about the WAACs, their aim, their ambitions, as well as our daily life. Our aim
is success in battle and our purpose is to replace men behind the lines so that
they can be used in actual combat duty."
"The Kinmundy Express"
Feb. 11, 1943 - The members of the Rosedale
Rebekah Lodge was honored Friday evening at their regular meeting by a visit
from Miss Florence DOOLEN, a W.A.A.C. from Oglethorpe, Ga. After the business
meeting, a social time was spent in her honor and delicious refreshments were
served."
Feb. 11, 1943 - "Meacham: Aux. Florence DOOLEN
returned to her camp in Georgia after spending the week with her mother and many
friends."
Sept. 9, 1943 - "T 5 Florence DOOLEN of Georgia came
Tuesday for a 10 day furlough with her mother, Mrs. Effie ROBB and other
relatives."
Sept. 16, 1943 - "Florence DOOLEN Entertained:
Rosedale Rebekah Lodge No. 371 enjoyed a very pleasant time Friday evening after
lodge in honor of WAC T4 Florence DOOLEN of Georgia, who was home on a
vacation. The time was spent socially with an account given by Miss DOOLEN of
her work. Games and music were enjoyed and ice cream served. Miss Edith DAY of
Alma, a close friend, was the guest."
Sept. 23, 1943 - "T 4 Florence DOOLEN returned to
her camp in Georgia, after a 10 day furlough here with her mother, Mrs. Effie
ROBB and many other relatives and many friends."
Aug. 3, 1944 - "Corp. Florence DOOLEN, a WAC in the
U.S. Army has moved from North Africa to Italy. Florence is the daughter of
Mrs. Effie ROBB of this city."
Aug. 10, 1944 - "Word has been received that WAC
Florence DOOLEN has been awarded the Good Conduct Medal along with 8 other girls
of the company on July 29. This award was made by Major Bouetell of the WAC
Bat. who was formerly the Company Commander."
Aug. 10, 1944 - "Word has been received that WAC
Florence DOOLEN has been awarded the Good Conduct Medal along with 8 other girls
of the company on July 29. This award was made by Major Bouetell of the WAC
Bat. who was formerly the Company Commander."
Aug. 30, 1944 - "Cpl.
Florence DOOLEN Receives Discharge: Cpl. Florence DOOLEN, daughter of Mrs. Effie
ROBB, arrived home Saturday after making a flying trip home from Italy where she
had spent the past 22 months, there and in Africa with the Allied Force
Headquarters, doing clerical and secretarial work. Cpl. DOOLEN held the
distinction of being the first lady from Marion County to enlist in the Women’s
Army Corps. She entered the service August 20, 1942, and after training at
various places, shipped overseas October 28, 1943, landing in Algiers, Africa.
On July 1, 1944, she went to Italy where she was stationed at Caserta until she
started home on August 17th via plane. From Italy, they flew to Casa
Blanca, where they remained for two nights. And after 26 hours in the air,
arrived in New York. From there, she was handed her discharge papers, August
24, having 56 points to her credit. She wears the European -African Campaign
Ribbon with one star, representing the Rome-Arno Campaign, the WAAC Ribbon, the
Good Conduct Medal, and the Meritorious Service Award. Upon her arrival here,
she found a family reunion awaiting her. Her sister, Mrs. Martha EDMOND and
children, of Great Bend, Kans. and her brother, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest DOOLEN and
children, of South Bend, Ind., happened to be here visiting the mother and other
two sisters, Mrs. Claude HANNA and Mrs. Charles LOWE. This was the first time
in seventeen years all the children had been together. It was, indeed, a happy
reunion. As to her future, Florence says she wants to do some loafing and get
acquainted with her friends before she settles down again. She told us she did
not want her picture but we are giving you a picture of her before she entered
the service. However, she says that she gained 10 lbs. during her trip
abroad." (A picture accompanied this article.)
"The Kinmundy Express" - Aug. 30, 1945 - "Cpl. Florence
Doolen Receives Discharge"
( V-229b) -
James A. Bassett
"The Kinmundy Express":
Oct. 16, 1941 - "Kenneth JACKSON motored to Camp
Forrest, Tenn. Friday. Merle JACKSON, Harold JONES and Floyd and Steven
EAGAN, Eary GENTRY, Dwight WILLIAMS, and James HILL of Sigel accompanied him to
Kinmundy. Others home on furlough are Bob HANNA and James BASSETT."
May 18, 1944
- "Here’s one from Sgt. James A. BASSETT, who
is now in the South Pacific. He says: I have been intending to write, but I just
haven’t done it. I hope you will be kind enough to excuse me for not writing
before. But you know how easy it is to put off writing. I hope this finds
everyone around the old home town is in good health, especially around the
editorial mansion. I still get the paper and I want you to know how much I
appreciate it. I don’t get them as often or as soon as I would like to, but I
get them and that is the main thing. There are a lot of things in the paper that
I wouldn’t know if I didn’t read it there. Maybe you knew, or perhaps you didn’t
that Harold was a buddy of mine. He and I were inducted at the same time and had
always been in the same company until he was sent home. You probably heard Guin
speak of him. I hear from him about once a month. As you know I have been in the
South and Southwest Pacific for the past 2 years and I am getting enough of it.
Did I say getting? I have gotten enough of it a long time ago. I used to think
it would be nice to be where it never snows, but I don’t think so anymore. I
think it would be nice to wallow in a nice deep snow drift. But things could be
a lot worse. We have a movie every other night. So you see we have some
recreation. I will bring this to a close before I bore you with this nonsense."
July 12, 1945 – “Mr. and Mrs. Ernest BASSETT were made extremely happy last
Saturday morning to see their son, Sgt. James A. BASSETT, come home after
spending 41 months overseas. They knew that he was back in the states but they
didn’t know just when he would arrive home. This happy couple feel like they
are sitting on top of the world now as this was the second son to return home
from overseas. Sgt. BASSETT entered the service
March 20, 1941, and shipped
overseas Jan. 23, 1942 landing in Australia. From there he went to new
Caledonia, then to Guadacanal, the Fiji Islands, Bougainville, and
then the Philippines. He landed back here in the states on June 28. Upon his
arrival at Ft. Sheridan, they found that he had 105 points and so they handed
him his discharge papers rather than a furlough. Sgt. BASSETT wears the Combat
Infantryman’s Badge, the Good Conduct Medal, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, the
Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Guadacanal,
Bougainville, and the Philippines. He also wears the Philippine Liberation
Ribbon with 1 star, presented by the Philippine Government. He was a member of
the 132d Infantry Battalion. Sgt. BASSETT has a brother, PFC Lawrence, in the
service who is now stationed at Camp McCoy, Wis., after spending 32 months
in the Southwest Pacific Theater. Sgt. BASSETT says all he wants to do now is
just lie around home and get caught up on his loafing as well as eating his fill
of mother’s fried chicken.”
James Marvin Bassett
“The Kinmundy Express”:
March 20, 1941 - "Leaves for Camp: Leland SHORT, a
Volunteer, James HANKS and Arthur MUEHLHAUSEN of Meacham twp., Roy NORTHCUTT,
who has been managing the farm for Mr. Roy HULSEY, north of this city, and James
BASSETT, of Foster twp., left Salem last night where they will be inducted into
the selective Service this morning in Chicago. H. Merle JACKSON of this
city was scheduled to accompany these boys, but due to a back injury, is in bed
and unable to go."
Jan. 15, 1942 - "Boys Leave for Camp: Carl and Roy
DOOLEN, Bill GARRETT, Marvin BASSETT, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Willard WILEY, and Merle
SCHNEIDER, left Tuesday night for camp. D.A. ARNOLD, who was released a
few weeks ago on account of being over 28, was recalled and left Sunday night.
Arthur BOYD, Charles KLINE, Paul WRIGHT and Louie Soutier are in St. Louis today
where they are receiving their final physical examinations."
Sept. 17, 1942 - "Greenridge:
Pvt. Marvin Bassett spent the past weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jim
Bassett."
Apr. 13, 1943 - "Home on Furlough: PFC Marvin
BASSETT of Texas is spending a 15 day furlough here with his parents."
May 11, 1944
- BELCHER-BASSETT: Miss Nellie Fern
BELCHER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Owen BELCHER, Patoka, and Cpl. James Marvin
BASSETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT were married Thursday, 3 p.m., May 4,
1944, at the Christian Church in Patoka. Rev. Robert Graham performed the
single ring ceremony. Mrs. Evelyn BALLANCE played the wedding march and Mrs.
Alta LOGAN sang “At Dawning” and “I Love You Truly”. The bride was attired in
powder blue with brown accessories and a corsage of white and pink rosebuds.
Her attendant, Mrs. Ruth WILLIAMS, sister of the groom, wore a floral dress with
navy blue accessories and corsage of pink rosebuds. Cpl. Bassett had as his
attendant, Wendell BELCHER, brother of the bride. The immediate family of both
attended the wedding with a supper at the bride’s home following the ceremony.
A charivari and shower extended them in the home of the groom’s parents Saturday
evening. Cpl. BASSETT has been enjoying a 13 day furlough from his camp in
Texas.
Jan. 4, 1945 - "S/Sgt. Marvin BASSETT and wife spent
Thursday at the Harold BELCHER home."
Sept. 20, 1945 – “S. Sgt. Marvin BASSETT is spending a 30 day furlough with his
family in Patoka and with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT of the Zion
neighborhood, after spending the past 6 months abroad. Sgt. BASSETT entered the
service Jan. 14, 1942, and shipped overseas Feb. 10, 1945 landing in France.
From there he went to Germany with an Ordnance Depot Company of the 15th Army.
He started for the Southwest Pacific on Aug. 11th, but the course was changed
while on high seas and his ship docked at Boston on Aug. 20th. He arrived home
on Aug. 27th. After spending his furlough here, he will be sent to Fort Bliss, Texas. Sgt. BASSETT wears the
Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with one star,
representing the battle of the Rhineland. On May 4, 1944, Sgt. BASSETT
and Miss Nellie Fern BELCHER, of Patoka, were married. They now have a 4 months
old daughter, Donna Marlene.”
May 17, 1945 - "A Daughter: Born to S/Sgt. and Mrs.
Marvin BASSETT, a baby daughter, May 14, at the Salem Memorial Hospital.
The little Miss weighs 6 lbs. 5.25 ounces, and is named Donna Marlene.
S/Sgt. BASSETT is serving in the 15th Army somewhere in Germany. Mrs.
BASSETT was formerly Miss Nellie Fern BELCHER of Patoka."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “East Zion: S. Sgt. James Marvin BASSETT left Saturday night for
Camp Grant after spending a 45 day
furlough here with his wife and daughter and parents and sister.”
James O. Bassett
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Jan. 8, 1970 - "Pvt. James BASSETT returned to Fort
Leonard Wood, Mo., after spending the holidays here with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Marvin BASSETT and family and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleve McWHIRTER."
March 5,
1970 - "PFC James Bassett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Bassett is now serving in
Vietnam."
May 7, 1970 – “James O. BASSETT, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Marvin Bassett, Alma, was recently promoted to Army specialist four while
serving with the 27th Transportation Battalion near
Qui Nhon,
Vietnam. Spec. 4 Bassett, a radio operator with the Battalion’s Headquarters
Detachment, entered the Army in August, 1969, completed basic training at Ft.
Campbell, Ky., and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., prior to arriving
overseas. A 1966 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, the 22 year old
specialist received his A.S. degree in 1968. The specialist attended Kaskaskia
Junior College Centralia, Ill., and the Southern Ill. University at Carbondale.”
Oct. 29, 1970 – “James O. BASSETT, son of Mr. and Mrs.
James M. Bassett, Alma, recently was promoted to Army Sergeant while serving
with the 27th Transportation Battalion in
Vietnam.
Sgt. Bassett, a documentation noncommissioned officers with Battalion
Headquarters Detachment, entered the U.S. Army in Aug. 1969 and was last
stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. The 22 year old soldier received his A.S.
Degree from the
Kaskaskia
Junior College at Shattuc, Ill. in1968.”
Jan. 21, 1971 - "Sgt. James O. BASSETT, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Marvin BASSETT left Jan. 12th for Camp Lee, Va., after spending his leave
at home."
Aug. 5, 1971 – “Sgt. James O. BASSETT,
Fort Lee,
Va.,
is spending a 10 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Bassett and
family, rural Alma.”
May 4,
1972 - "Sgt. James O. Bassett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Bassett, rural Alma,
received his discharge Apr. 19th after serving 3 years in the army.
One year being in Vietnam and two years at Fort Lee, W. Va."
(V-230b) - Lawrence Bassett
"The Kinmundy Express":
Nov. 27, 1941 - "Shanghai column: Leaves for Army -
Lawrence BASSETT left Sunday for Chicago where he will be inducted into the
Army. He was accompanied to Salem by John SEE."
Aug. 10, 1944 -
"Here’s a nice letter from PFC Lawrence H.
BASSETT, who has been in the South West Pacific for quite sometime. He says: The
usual thing as usual, I have been intending to write but just put it off. That
is very easy to do as you cannot write everything you would like to. Some things
if you wrote about, they would only be cut out so what is the use of writing in
the first place. Your letter would have looked like the mice got ahold of it. As
I have been getting the paper for some time and have put off writing, hope you
will excuse me this time. Hope this finds everyone in good health, especially
around the mansion. The papers you have been sending have been coming along
alright so far. Only when I was in New Guinea, they were slightly slow, but they
came and that was what counted. There is plenty of news in the home town paper
that I wouldn’t know about if it wasn’t for your thoughtfulness in sending me
and the other boys the home town news. As you know by now, I also have a brother
over here on this side of the Pacific. I have been over here about the same
length of time he has. Been hoping to run into him some time, but that hasn’t
happened yet. I have seen all the Islands of the Pacific I care to see. It will
do me for a mighty long time. It may be nice to some people where it never
snows, but for myself, I would rather see some snow once in a while. Long as I
have been over here, I have only seen ice twice. Still in all, it could have
been lots worse. I have been gone from my old outfit for some time now. Sure
would like to run into some of the boys from there and also some from home. I
have seen the TROUT boy twice since I came over. He is the only one. There are
plenty of others over here, as I get letters from home telling me or see it in
the home town paper. I will bring this bit of chatter to a stop. Good luck to
you all."
Oct. 5, 1944 - "According to a release received from
Headquarters of the Sixth Service Command, PFC Lawrence H. BASSETT, who is now
attached to the detached enlisted men’s list, is returning home from 29 months
overseas in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. He was supposed to
reach Ft. Sheridan, Ill., the reception center, yesterday and in all probability
will arrive here today or tomorrow to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.O.
BASSETT."
Oct. 12, 1944: "On Friday morning, PFC Lawrence
BASSETT, who has spent 29 months in the Southwest Pacific Theater, arrived here
to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.O. BASSETT. Lawrence is looking good
and is in good health. He remarked that Kinmundy sure did look mighty good
to him."
Nov. 2, 1944: "Returns to Service: PFC Lawrence
BASSETT left Friday night for Miami Beach, Fla., after spending 21 days delay
enroute here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest BASSETT, residing north of
town. His departing words were, 'Gee, these were the shortest 21 days I
have ever seen in all my life.' And we don't doubt this boy's word one
bit. You see, PFC BASSETT spent 29 months in the Southwest Pacific Theater
of War and this trip home was certainly a great treat for him. Just what
he will do now or where he will go now, he doesn't know. And he says, 'I'm
still in the Army." Although PFC BASSETT did not display them while here,
he is authorized to wear the American Defense Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct
Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon, 2 Bronze Battle Stars and 4 Overseas
Bars. he can be mighty proud of these marks of distinction and we are
mighty proud that he can wear them. We certainly wish him luck where ever
he goes."
June 28, 1945 – “PFC Lawrence BASSETT and wife returned to Camp McCoy, Wis., Monday after spending a
10 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.O. BASSETT. PFC Lawrence
was here for 22 days last fall after spending 29 months overseas. He entered
the service Nov. 25, 1941, and was sent overseas on April 22, 1942, landing in
Australia. He remained there until Jan. 1943 when he was sent to New Guinea and
then back to Australia in Oct. 1943. There he remained until he started back to
the states on Sept. 14, 1944. He arrived in Kinmundy Oct., there he spent a
very enjoyable 22 days. From here he was sent to a rest camp in Florida for 14
days and then shipped to Camp McCoy, Wis., where he has since been
stationed. It was at this camp where he met Miss Leah JOHNSON of Tomah, Wis.,
and on May 16, they were wed. This was the bride’s first trip to Southern
Illinois and she says that she likes this part of the country fine. We
sincerely hope this good couple will make this community their home after this
war is over. PFC BASSETT wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Pre-Pearl Harbor
Ribbon, and the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of
Papu and New Guinea. He has 1 brother in the service, Cpl. James BASSETT, who
has been in the Southwest Pacific for 3 years.”
Oct. 11, 1945 – “PFC and Mrs. Lawrence BASSETT arrived here last Saturday to
visit their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest BASSETT. And it may be that they will
make their home in this community as Lawrence received his discharge from the
army at Camp McCoy, Wis. on Sept. 27th. Lawrence
spent almost 4 years in the army, 29 months of which was spent in the
Asiatic-Pacific Theater. After his return to the states, he spent a very
enjoyable 30 day furlough here with his parents. He was then sent to Miami,
Fla., and then to Camp McCoy, Wis. On May 16th, he was
married to Miss Leah JOHNSON, of Tomah, Wis. We are truly glad to welcome this
lad and his wife and sincerely hope they will see fit to settle down in this
community.”
Larry Bassett
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Oct. 24, 1968 - "Graduates From Electronics School: Larry BASSETT, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Charles BASSETT, Danville, graduated from Louisville, Ky.,
Electronics School on Sept. 13th, and took his physical exams in Chicago, Oct.
23rd. Larry is a grandson of Mr. and Mrs. C.E. BAILEY and Mr. and Mrs.
J.B. MAXEY and a great-grandson of Mrs. Lewella NEATHERY all of this city."
Jan. 2, 1969 – “Pvt. Larry BASSETT, Danville, and a
former resident of Kinmundy, is receiving his training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
after entering the armed services on Thanksgiving.”
March 6, 1969 - "Pvt. Larry C. BASSETT has completed
his training at Fort Leonard Wood and has been transferred to the following
address: Pvt. Larry C. BASSETT; 7th E.T.C. 1st Plt. Scho. Bde. USA; M.M.C.S.
Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Ala."
Oct. 9, 1969 - " Wednesday supper guests of Mr. and
Mrs. J.B. MAXEY were Cpl. Larry BASSETT, Danville, and Mrs. Lewella NEATHERY.
Cpl. BASSETT was an overnight guest in the MAXEY home and returned on Friday to
Danville and will leave Oct. 11 for 2 years duty in Germany."
Oct. 30, 1969 - "Sp/4 Larry BASSETT arrived in Germany
for duty."
Abe Baylis
Ava Baylis
"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill.
May 9, 1918
"Decatur, Ill.; May 7, 1918
Editor of Marion County Express:
Most likely the readers of your paper and the friends and
relatives would like to hear about some of the Kinmundy soldier boys who are on
their way to France. Corp. Abe and Alva BAYLIS of 130th came through
Decatur yesterday, May 6, at 7:45 p.m. they detrained for a little
exercise and paraded the streets. Miss Lucy BASS talked to Abe BAYLIS and
also saw Alva but did not get to speak to him as it was raining very hard.
Every kaki boy was as happy as if on a coon hunt. They left Camp Logan on
Saturday, May 4. Each soldier boy was in splendid health and show the
appearance that they were going to get the kaiser over there. They said to
tell all hello and when they got over there and Uncle Sam turned them loose they
would show the bulldog face kaiser who was who, and that they would bottle up
old Bill and drive the cork in tight. C.E. BASS"
May 30, 1918 - "News has been received here of the safe arrival overseas
of Herman ANNA, Eugene CRAIG, Bryan ROBB, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, Abe & Alva
BAYLIS, Chas. HOYT. The many Kinmundy relatives and friends are glad
to know of their safe arrival."
Dec. 5, 1918 - "According to a
message received from the War Department at Washington on Monday by Miss Clara
SEE, residing south of town, her nephew, Herman ANNA, was severally wounded in
battle on Nov. 10, the last day before the signing of the armistice. He
was a member of Co. G 9th Illinois Infantry, a regiment of Federalized National
Guardsmen. In the same Company with him were Abe and Alva BAYLIS, Eugene
CRAIG, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, and Frank HOYT. These boys have been in
France since last summer and have seen considerable hard fighting. It is
with much regret that his many friends learn of Herman's serious injury on the
last day of the great world struggle. Further word received from these
boys states that Abe BAYLIS is in the hospital with a twisted ankle and Avery
BOUGHERS had been slightly gassed. From the number of Illinois boys in the
recent casualty lists, it is very apparent that our boys were just beginning to
get into the fighting."
Dec. 12, 1918 - "News from Co. G": "Dear Sister, I will try and write and
let you know I am still alive. Eugene CRAIG and myself are the only
Kinmundy boys left in the company. HOYT was wounded, Bill LEMAY was
gassed, and Herman ANNA was shot in the legs and arms, but he will live alright.
Abe and BOUGHERS were already in the hospital and they can thank their lucky
stars that they were to. Our outfit was shot all to pieces the day before
the war ended. A lot of our boys were killed. They fought right up
to the last minute. If you would of heard the guns at the last, you would
of thought it was just beginning. Two fellows in H. Company were killed
just five minutes of eleven. Well our boys are all worn out as we have
been in this drive since it started in September. It seemed that the only
way we could be relieved was for the war to end. Tell the SEE girls that
the doctor said Herman would make it alright. He laughed as the boys
passed him going after the Hun and said, "Give em Hell boys!", and sat up and
smoked a cigarette. He was certainly nery. That night after they
stopped fighting we sent up flare after flare; it looked like a celebration.
Our boys were happy but they didn't feel like celebrating as we had lift some
good friends behind and right at the last. It certainly seems funny to
have fires everywhere you want to and not be shelled. Tell papa I hope to
be home by Spring. Of course you know we might have to Germany to stop the
riots. That is the talk now. As this is all, I will close.
Alva BAYLIS"
June 5, 1919 - "Kinmundy 'Prairie Dogs' Return
Home: Members of Company G Return Home Sunday Evening. Three Wear Wound
Stripes and Three others Win Promotion: The people of Kinmundy were pleased to
welcome home, last Sunday evening several of her very own "Prairie Dogs",
members of the famous 33rd Division and more notably of Company G, of Effingham.
Perhaps more than the usual significance attaches to the return of these boys,
because they constituted the largest number from Kinmundy to be in the same
company and regiment throughout the war. Those from this city who enlisted
in this company were: Alvah BAYLIS, Abe BAYLIS, Charles HOYT, Eugene CRAIG,
Avery BOUGHERS, Wm. LEMAY, Bryan ROBB, and Herman ANNA. Of these, the latter
will never return, for he now sleeps beneath the soil of France, made sacred by
the blood of thousands of his comrades in arms. Of the others, three, Chas.
HOYT, Avery BOUGHERS and William LEMAY, wear wound stripes; Abe BAYLIS rose to
the rank of sergeant, and Avery BOUGHERS and Wm. LEMAY to that of corporal.
These boys enlisted in Company G of the Fourth Illinois Infantry. I.N.G., which
became the 130th Infantry upon its federalization on July 25, 1917. They
were then sent to Camp Logan, Texas, whence they sailed for France May 16th,
1918, landing at Brest May 24. They were soon transferred to the English
sector on the Albert and Hamel fronts, where they were the first of the American
troops to fight under an English Flag. Here they participated in several
battles on July 3rd and 4th, and _________________________________ and here
again they were the first of the American soldiers to fight under the French
flag. On Sept. 26 they went into the lines with the American forces, and
remained under fire continuously until the signing of the armistice. Their
hardest fighting came on Nov. 10 in the battle of Marcheville, in which one of
our own boys gave his life. For his work on this day he was
recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross. After the signing of the
armistice they retired to Tillet, France, where after a week's rest, they
matched to Diekireh, Luxembourg, where they remained as a part of the Army of
Occupation until Apr. 24, when they set out on their return to the U.S.A., home
and loved ones. They arrived at Hoboken, N.J., on May 20th, and were sent
to Camp Grant for demobilization, stopping enroute at Chicago to participate in
a great "homecoming" parade. Their regiment and division return with
an enviable record - one of which this company may well be proud. They are
truly entitled to every honor and the glory which they nobly share with others
of our industrious sons who went out to do battle for us."
(V-61) Merle Baylis
"The Kinmundy Express":
Jan. 14, 1943 - "East
Meadow Branch: Pvt. Merle BAYLIS is stationed in a camp in Louisiana."
June 17, 1943 - "Pvt. Merle BAYLIS of Louisiana is
enjoying a visit here with his family Mr. and Mrs. A.J. BAYLIS and Harold
HOWELLs."
Dec. 9, 1943: "Pvt. Merle BAYLIS of Texas returned
Sunday to his camp after spending a week here with relatives."
Nov. 2, 1944 -
"Here’s one from Pvt. Merle BAYLIS, who is still taking in the sights of Italy.
He says: Just a few lines to thank you for the paper and I want you to know I am
very glad to get it. And by the paper I get a lot of news I would not know about
if it were not for the paper. I am over here somewhere in Italy, and so far I am
in the same territory from the time I landed here. The place is very attractive
for scenery, mountains on 2 sides of us. I would like to mention more about this
are, but the censor might begin to frown so I better not tell any more about
this place. So far I can say for myself, I have been very luck this far. I have
plenty of good food and a good place to sleep and I am working in the officers
mess. I have also visited Napels several times and 2 different times I took the
Red Cross bus and went to Pompei to see the ruins caused by Mt. Vesuvius which
was uncovered around 2000 years ago, that is some of the city was uncovered. And
it is very interesting to see how, the people lived in those days, and I went to
see Mt. Vesuvius and also I went up to the very top along with some other boys.
It was a hard climb, but it was worth it. Sure is a large crater and still
smoking and I hope to tell you more about it when I see you. I only hope this
war will soon come to a close and I think it will be over with Germany this
year. I am sending in this letter 2 pieces of Italian money to you. One lire is
Allied currency and the other lire is their original lire. The weather here at
present is fine, only hope it continues that way. I suppose this is enough of
this kind of writing, so I will close for this time."
Nov. 22, 1945 – “PFC Merle BAYLIS is here visiting with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Alonzo BAYLIS, after receiving his discharge at Ft. Knox, Kentucky on Nov.
8th. Merle entered the service Nov. 30, 1942, and shipped overseas July 1,
1944, landing in Italy, where he served with the 7th Replacement Depot
Headquarters Co. in Italy, and worked with the 1379th Engineers Pet.
Distributing company in France. Merle wears the Good Conduct Medal, the
American Theater of Operations Ribbon, the European-African-Middles Eastern
Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of
Appennines and Rhineland. After Merle has finished with his visiting, he will return to his old
job in Sterling, Ill.”
Nov. 29, 1945 – “PFC Merle BAYLIS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo BAYLIS, who
received his discharge Nov. 8th, at Fort Knox, Ky.”
Walter Baylis
"The
Marion County Express”
March 28, 1918 - "Mrs. Eli ROBB and daughter, Veda, and Mrs. Walter
BAYLIS went to Louisville, Ky. to remain while their husbands are in training at
Camp Taylor."
June 6, 1918 - "John BRASEL, Walter MILLER, J.O.
COX, Walter BAYLIS, Ener ZIMMER, Eli ROBB of Camp Taylor spent Sunday at home
with their families before leaving for Camp Sherman, Ohio."
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
Walter BAYLIS
William Baylis
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1918 - "Corporal Loren KLINE, who has been stationed for
some time at Camp Pike, Ark., Wm. BAYLISS of Jefferson Barracks, Clifford
JACKSON and Hugh COUGHLIN of Camp Custer, Mich., arrived home last week having
been likewise discharged from the service. The community joins their
relatives in welcoming home these soldiers of democracy and we know that they
will be heartily received into their old positions in the community life."
Arthur M. Beals
“The Kinmundy Express”
April 25, 1945 –
“Pvt. Arthur BEALS Killed in Action: Mrs. Frank HOYT of Salem, but formerly of this city, received word last week,
from the War Dept., announcing her son by a former marriage, Pvt. Arthur M.
BEALS, was killed in action in Germany 3 April. Pvt. BEALS entered the
service July 31, 1944, and was sent overseas in February. He lacked 23
days of attaining his 19th birthday when killed. He was a gunner with the
5th Tank Battalion. We are indeed very sorry to learn of the death of this
lad and our hearts go out to this bereaved family in their hour of sorrow.”
Austin Beard
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 18, 1943 - "(Omega) A Boy: Mr. and Mrs. Austin
BEARD are parents of a baby boy, born Monday at the Fred MULVANEY home.
Mr. BEARD is a soldier in the army."
Dec. 23, 1943 - "Corp. Austin BEARD was here last
week visiting at the Fred MULVANEY home. He is enroute to Massachusetts
where he will receive further training."
Dec. 23, 1943- "Young School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde
MULVANEY and children spent Thursday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Luther
BEARD, who had their Christmas that day in honor of their grandson, Austin
BEARD, who is in the army and had to return Saturday."
Sept. 6, 1945 – “Pleasant Grove (from last week): Cpl. Austin BEARD, who has
been overseas for several months, arrived here Wednesday at the Fred MULVANEY
home for a 30 day furlough with his wife and 22 month old son, whom he has not
seen since he was about 1 month old, and his parents and other relatives.”
Oct. 11, 1945 - "Austin BEARD left for Camp Grant
Monday after a furlough with his wife and parents."
John W. "Bill" Beard
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 3, 1953 – “Donna Mae, wife of Pfc John W. BEARD, received word last
week that Bill had arrive in Asmara, Eritrea, Africa. This city is on the east
coast, and Bill will work as a signal repairman with the army unit stationed
there.”
(V-112) Ronald D. Beard
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Oct. 17, 1963 - "Enters Army: Ronald BEARD, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Robert BEARD, left Monday for St. Louis where he was inducted into the Army."
Oct. 1, 1964 - "Army PFC Ronald D. BEARD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert G.
BEARD, Kinmundy, qualified as expert in firing the M-14 rifle at Fort Clayton,
Canal Zone, Sept. 14. the 23 year old soldier, a radio operator in the
601st Medical Company at Fort Clayton, entered the Army in Oct. 1963. He
completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. BEARD is a 1958
graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School. Before entering the Army, he was
employed by the Illinois Central Railroad, Chicago."
Jan. 2, 1964 – “Pvt. Ronald BEARD who had spent the
holidays with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert BEARD, left St. Louis by plane,
Monday morning for
South Carolina,
from where he will leave for
Panama
to attend a Communication School in the U.S. Army.”
Jan. 9, 1964 - "To Go to Panama: Pvt. Ronald BEARD, who had spent
the holidays with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert BEARD, left ST. Louis by
plane, Monday morning for South Carolina, from where he will leave for Panama to
attend a Communication school in the U.S. Army."
Oct. 1, 1964 –“Army PFC Ronald D. BEARD, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Robert G. Beard, Kinmundy, qualified for expert in firing the M-14 rifle at
Fort Clayton, Canal Zone, Sept. 14. The 23-year-old soldier, a radio operator
in the 601st Medical Company at Fort Clayton, entered the Army in
Oct. 1963. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood,
Mo.
Beard is a 1963 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School. Before entering the
Army, he was employed by the Illinois Central Railroad Co., Chicago.”
Feb. 4, 1965 - "Returns to Panama: PFC Ronald BEARD left Tuesday
for Panama, to return to his duties in the United States Army, after spending a
30 day leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert BEARD."
Sept. 30, 1965 –“Sp/4 Ronald BEARD, having spent 2
years with the U.S. Army, arrived home Wednesday, after receiving his discharge
in Jackson, S.C."
Warren B. Beard
“The Kinmundy Express” – Nov. 23, 2000 - "Air Force Airman Warren B. BEARD has
graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio,
Texas. During the 6 weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force
mission, organization, and customs and received special training in human
relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits
toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force. He is the son of Dallas R. BEARD of 7984 Wilson Rd., Kinmundy,
Ill. BEARD is a 2000 graduate of South Central High School, Farina, Ill."
Charles Michael "Mike"Bee
“The Kinmundy Express” – Oct. 20, 1955 – “Pvt. Charles M. BEE, 21, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Charles O. BEE, Alma, is a member of the 2nd Infantry Division
at
Ft. Lewis,
Wash. Valuable combat experience obtained in Korea by the "Indianhead"
division is utilized in the vigorous training of the unit. BEE, a radio operator in the 2nd Signal Company, entered the
Army in Jan. 1955, and completed basic training at Camp Chaffee, Ark. He is a
former student at the
Univ.
of Illinois.”
Donald Beasley
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Feb. 15, 1979 – “Navy Aviation Electrician’s Mate First Class Donald R.
BEASLEY, son of John W. BEASLEY of Route 1, Kinmundy, Ill., has reported for
duty aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway, operating from Yokosuka, Japan. He
joined the Navy in January 1964.”
Aug. 9, 1979 – “Navy Aviation Electrician’s Mate 1st Class
Donald R. BEASLEY, son of John W. BEASLEY of Route 1, Kinmundy, has been awarded
the Navy Expeditionary Medal. He is a crewmember aboard the aircraft carrier
USS Midway, operating from Yokosuka, Japan. He received the medal for his
participation in cruises in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf in response to the
turmoil in Iran and North Yeman. The Navy Expeditionary Medal is awarded to
personnel of the Navy who have operated under circumstances deemed to merit
special recognition. The medal was first authorized in 1936. BEASLEY joined
the Navy in January 1964.”
John C. Beery
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 14, 1956 – “Army Specialist Third Class John C.
BEERY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Guy L. BEERY, Kinmundy was recently assigned to the 9th
Infantry Division in Germany. Specialist BEERY, a truck driver in the division,
entered the army in June 1953, and completed basic training at
Ft. Riley,
Kansas. He arrived in Europe in Nov. of 1953.”
Dec. 13, 1956 - "HOWELL-BEERY: On Dec. 7, in Glen Ellyn, Ill.,
occurred the marriage of Miss Barbara Anne HOWELL to John BEERY. They were
attended by Mr. and Mrs. Tom BEERY. The bride is the second daughter of
Mrs. Lois and the late Harold HOWELL and is a senior in K.A.H.S. the groom
is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Guy BEERY, residing west of town. He has just
returned from overseas and is now located in Colorado near Colorado Springs. "
June 20, 1957 - "Cpl. and Mrs. John BEERY of Colorado
Springs, Colo. visited her uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Reindl BAYLIS and family Saturday
afternoon."
Oct. 17, 1957 - "Mrs. Lois HOWELL returned Tuesday after visiting
a week with her daughter, Mr. and Mrs. John C. BEERY, of Colorado Springs, Colo.
Mr. and Mrs. BEERY came with her to Kinmundy as Mr. BEERY has just received his
discharge from the service."
Jerome Berner
“The Kinmundy Express”
-
March 4, 1971 – “Staff/Sgt. Jerome BERNER and his wife, Rose Marie, and
sons, Chris and Jerry Jr., of Tampa, Fla., are spending a 30 day leave here with
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. ALLEN. Sgt. BERNER will leave March 19th
enroute to Ching-Chuan-Kang, Taiwan for 16 months duty in the Air Force. Mrs.
BERNER and sons will remain here with his parents and has enrolled Chris in the
local grade school. She is planning a 2 or 3 months visit with her mother in
Trier, Germany, and will return here in the fall to reenter Chris in school.”
Charles Berry
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 22, 1944 - "Mr. Charles BERRY left for Chicago
last Tuesday night to be taken into the Army. His wife will remain at home
until he is located."
Aug. 24, 1944 - "(East Meadow Branch from last
week) Pvt. Charles BERRY of Arkansas is
here for a seven day furlough with his family."
Apr. 19, 1945 - "According to word received here by
his wife, Pvt. Charles BERRY has been promoted to Private First Class and is now
in Germany."
Feb. 21, 1946: Word has been received here of the
promotion of T/5 Charles BERRY to that of T/4. T/4 BERRY is stationed in
Seckenheim, Germany."
June 13, 1946 –“Meadow Branch: Sgt. Charles BERRY returned home from Germany,
Friday morning. He entered the service in June ‘44, and was discharged at Ft. Sheridan, June 6th. He was sent
first to Little Rock, Ark., then to Oklahoma, and Texas and in Feb. ‘46 to
Germany, where he remained 5 months. He and his wife moved up into their own
home in Kinmundy, Monday.”
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John R. Black
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 9, 1972 – “John BLACK enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and left for
his basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas on Monday,
Nov. 6th. John attended schools in Florida and Iowa, and is a 1972
graduate of Union-Whitten High School, Union, Iowa. He has been employed at Kas
Potato Chip Co. of Centralia. John is a son of Mr. and Mrs. George J. BLACK of
Kinmundy.”
Jan. 25, 1973 – “Airman John R. BLACK, son of Mr. and
Mrs. George J. BLACK, of R.R. 2, Kinmundy, Ill., has been assigned to Sheppard
AFB, Tex., after completing Air Force basic training. During his 6 weeks at
the Air Training Command's Lackland AFB, Tex., he studied the Air Force mission,
organization and customs and received instruction in human relations. The airman has been
assigned to the Technical Training Center at Sheppard, for specialized training
as a medical services specialist. Airman Black is a 1972 graduate of
Union-Whitten Community High School, Union, Iowa."
May 24, 1973 - "Surprise Visit - Airman John R. BLACK of Lackland
A.F.B. Texas, son of George and Colleen BLACK surprised his family Monday
afternoon with a visit. John is a medical corpsman at Wilford Hall Medical
Center at Lackland A.F.B. He will return to Texas on Thursday."
Sept. 6, 1973 – “(Alma News) Visitors at the home of Mrs. Lillie
SHREFFLER the past week and during the weekend were John BLACK, who is home on
leave from the Air Force in Texas, visiting his parents in Kinmundy, Mr. and
Mrs. Henry WILLIAMS and son, Doug, Glen Carbon; Mrs. Mona POWELL, Clay City; Mr.
and Mrs. James O. EAGAN and Janet, Kinmundy, and Mr. and Mrs. Harry SHREFFLER.”
May 9, 1974 - " Letter to the Editor, May 2, 1974: Kinmundy
Express, Kinmundy, IL; Dear Sir: We are an Air Force couple from Hill Air Force
Base, Utah, who had to come to Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland Air Force
Base, Texas recently so that I (Major FREZZA)) could have open heart surgery.
While at this outstanding Medical Center in Texas, one of the particularly
noteworthy medical technicians assigned to care for me was Airman 1st Class John
BLACK. As I became better acquainted with him during my surgery and
convalescence it became apparent his hometown was Kinmundy and he told my wife,
Dorothy, and I all about your town. The purpose of my letter is to let you
folks in Kinmundy know what a wonderful citizen and son you have in John BLACK.
He is a bright, hard working young man, and I am very thrilled when I see such a
young man growing in our nation. Warmest Regards, Major and Mrs. John
FREZZA. Editor's note - Airman 1st Class John BLACK is the son of
Mr. and Mrs. George BLACK of this city."
Aug. 7, 1975 - "John R. BLACK of Kinmundy has been promoted to
Sgt. in the U.S. Air Force. Sgt. BLACK is an Emergency Room technician at
Scott A.F.B., Illinois. John is the son of Mr. and Mrs. George J. BLACK of
this city."
Mike Blackburn
“The Kinmundy Express” – Oct. 15, 1970 - "Mike BLACKBURN returned to San Diego,
Calif., after spending three weeks with parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert BLACKBURN
and family. He had just returned after a tour of duty in Vietnam."
Charles H. Blomberg
March 17, 1966 - "Charles BLOMBERG was born May 18,
1893 in Gasconade County, Mo., the son of Edward G. BLOMBERG and Caroline
(FROELKER) BLOMBERG. Of this union 2 sons were born, John and Charles.
John preceded him in death. Mr. BLOMBERG's mother died when he was
age three and he lived with his grandparents for four years. In 1917, he
homesteaded a ranch at Fowler, Colo., but was drafted into the Army before
completing the homestead. He served in France, Luxemburg, and Germany.
Upon his return he got employment with a road machinery firm in Decatur, Ill.,
where he met his wife, Nell (DISS) BLOMBERG. They were married Oct. 15,
1922 in St. Louis To this union 7 children were born: Charles, of Farina;
Mrs. Carl Curtis of Effingham, Mrs. Robert Young of Kinmundy ; Howard of
Kinmundy; Mrs. Howard Voelker of Altamont; Donald at home and an infant who died
May 30, 1925. ....... Mr. and Mrs. BLOMBERG moved from Decatur to a
farm north of Kinmundy in 1927, and have resided in that area for the past 39
years. ....."
Charles F. Blomberg
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Bob Geiler & Charles Blomberg
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Sept. 12, 1946 - "Mrs. Chas. BLOMBERG and Miss Beulah DISS left
Friday for El Paso, Texas, to visit the former's son, Pvt. Charles E. BLOMBERG.
They will return home via Colorado, where they will spend a few days with their
brother, Marlin, and family."
Oct. 17, 1946 - "Warren and Howard SCHAUFELBERGER flew from their
home in Greenville, Ill. last Thursday, and visited with Pvt. Charles E.
BLOMBERG."
Apr. 17, 1947 - "Charles BLOMBERG Home: Charles E. BLOMBERG
arrived home Friday after serving several months in the army in Japan. On
Sunday the following relatives gathered at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
C.H. BLOMBERG, for a 'welcome home' dinner in his honor: Mr. and Mrs. E.G.
BLOMBERG, Mr. and Mrs. J.H. DISS and family, Mr. and Mrs. L.C. DISS and family,
Leroy DISS, Miss Beulah DISS, and Mr. and Mrs. F.W. HAMMER and daughter.
Orville called in the afternoon."
Apr. 17, 1947 - "Miletus: We are rejoicing to know that so many
of our boys are returning from overseas: Lavern YATES arrived home March 24th,
Francis KRUTSINGER, April 5th; Charles BLOMBERG, last week, all from Honshu
Honshu Island, Japan. Douglas GOODWIN arrived home April 7th from
Philippines and Junior BUTTS and Walter BRIMBERRY, April 14 from Hawaii."
Feb. 26, 1953 - Mr. and Mrs. Charles BLOMBERG received a phone call
from their son Pvt. Charles BLOMBERG Tuesday from Korea where he is
stationed."
March 26, 1953 – “Captain Pfc. Darrell DISS, who is stationed in
Yongdongpo, Korea, went to Pusan, Korea, March 17, and ate lunch with Pvt.
Bob GEILER
and Pvt.
Charles BLOMBERG.
This is the first time Pvt. DISS has had the opportunity of seeing a fellow
Kinmundian since being sent overseas although he has talked via telephone to
George LAMBIRD who is stationed at Seoul.”
Apr. 30, 1953 – “Now in Korea: Army Pvt. Charles F. BLOMBERG, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Charles BLOMBERG of Kinmundy, recently arrived in
Korea
for duty with the 44th Engineer Construction Group. He attended
Illinois University before entering the Army a year ago.”
Sept. 17, 1953 – “We have been informed that Pfc.
Charles BLOMBERG will celebrate his birthday on Sept. 30 in Pusan, Korea.
If you care to send him a card, his address is: (His
address was included.)”
Oct. 15, 1953 - "I wish to thank all those who sent me
cards and letters on my birthday. I received 54 cards and five letters.
They were greatly appreciated. Charles BLOMBERG, Pusan, Korea."
Feb. 4, 1954 - "Chas. E. BLOMBERG, stationed in Pusan,
Korea, went to Japan on R & R, while there he met Francis SCHATZ, Farina, Ill.
Charles at the present is back in Pusan."
May 6, 1954 - "Charles E. BLOMBERG landed in Seattle,
Wash., May 1. He has been in Korea for 15 months."
July 1, 1954 - "Charles E. BLOMBERG arrived home Monday
from El Paso, Texas where he received his discharge from the Army having served
the past 19 months in Korea."
Donald L.
Blomberg
“The
Kinmundy Express”:
Nov. 22, 1956 – “Army Pvt. Donald L. BLOMBERG, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Charles BLOMBERG, Kinmundy, recently began six months active duty
training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., under the Reserve Forces Act. He is
receiving 8 weeks basic combat training, which will be followed by advanced
individual and unit training. Men volunteering for the 6 months tour of active
duty are permitted to finish their military obligation in local Army Reserve or
National Guard units. The 18 year old soldier is a 1956 graduate of LaGrove
Community H.S.”
Apr. 11, 1957 - "Pvt. Donald Lee BLOMBERG of Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.,
spent the weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles BLOMBERG."
Howard
Blomberg
“The
Kinmundy Express”
May 17, 1956 – “Howard F. BLOMBERG, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles BLOMBERG,
of Kinmundy, Ill., is scheduled to graduate from recruit training May 12 at the
Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, IL. The 9 weeks of Boot Camp includes drill
and instruction in seamanship, gunnery, life saving, sea survival, boat handling
and the use of small arms. Following two week leave, graduates will be assigned
shipboard duties or service schools depending on the qualifications each has
demonstrated.”
May 31, 1956 – “A basket dinner was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Charles BLOMBERG, Sunday in honor of their son, Howard BLOMBERG, home on leave
from the Navy. Those attending the dinner were: Mrs. Wayne BRANDT and Teresa,
Gilman; Mr. and Mrs. Charles DISS and Karen, Salem; Mr. and Mrs. Carl CURTIS and
son, Charleston; Mr. Howard BELKER, Altamont; Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS; Mr. and
Mrs. Robert YOUNG and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Francis HAMMER and Barbara, and
Mr. and Mrs. J.H. DISS and Johnnie.”
Apr. 11, 1957 – “Howard BLOMBERG Transferred: Charles BLOMBERG left St.
Louis by Delta Air Lines Friday morning for Corpus Christi, Texas, to drive back
by car his son, Howard, who was being transferred to another base.”
(V-308)
Thomas A. Boone
"The Kinmundy Express"
Oct. 7, 1943 - "Accepted for Service: We have been
informed that the following Kinmundy men have been accepted for service and are
now stationed in various camps: Woodrow WILKINSON, Thomas A. BOONE, Harry E.
GRAY Jr., and Manuel WELSH."
Feb. 10, 1944 - "Pvt. Thomas BOONE of Michigan is
here and in Vandalia, Ill., for this week visiting his wife and parents."
June 29, 1944 -
"Here’s a V-Mail from Pvt. Thomas BOONE, who
is some where in New Guinea. He says: I am setting in my tent listening to it
rain. It has rained for the last 48 hours continually. It rains here almost all
of the time, but lets up for an hour or so every day. When the sun does shine it
is really hot and dries the ground up in a few hours. I have been here a little
over 3 weeks. Work almost every day, but the work is not hard. We have a picture
show that we can go to free and they give us the news every night. Cigarettes
are about 40 cents a carton in American money. We can have all the cocoanuts we
want to eat if we want to pick them up. I haven’t received a Kinmundy paper
since I have been here. I believe a March issue was the last. I have been on the
move since February and haven’t been in one place over 6 weeks so they haven’t
had time to catch up with me. I have got to see lots of the world in the last 10
months. But I wouldn’t give one foot of Illinois for it all. I haven’t seen many
white women as the only ones here are Red Cross workers and nurses and there are
only a few of those. Well it is almost bedtime and the wind has blown my candles
out 3 times, so far. So will close for tonight."
Sept. 13, 1945 – “Word has been received from PFC Thomas A. BOONE, that he has
been promoted to the rank of Corporal. He is still stationed in New Guinea,
where he has been for the past 16 months, and says he is hoping to be home by
this time next year.”
Sept. 27, 1945 - "Word has been received from Cpl.
Thomas A. BOONE stating that he has been moved to another base in New Guinea."
Nov. 22, 1945 - "Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE, who has been
stationed with a Signal Service Group in New Guinea for the past 18 months, is
enjoying a furlough with his wife and daughter and parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.A.
BOONE and other relatives. At the expiration of his leave he will report
to a camp in Texas."
Nov. 29, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. Bryan PITTS
entertained the following relatives to dinner Sunday in honor of the birthdays
of Mr. and Mrs. C.A. BOONE and Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE, who is home on furlough:
Mr. and Mrs. Alex HAMILTON, Iuka; Mr. and Mrs. Steve STOKELY and family, Salem;
Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE, wife and daughter, Vandalia; Mrs. Guy PERRY and sons, and
Mr. and Mrs. C.A. BOONE."
Jan. 24, 1946 –“Cpl. Thomas BOONE, son of Mayor and Mrs. Corral A. BOONE,
arrived home last week after receiving his discharge at San Antonio, Jan. 9th,
and is now at home with his wife and daughter in Vandalia. Thomas entered the
service Sept. 7, 1943, and spent 18
months in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines. He wears the Good Conduct
Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Ribbon and the Asiatic-Pacific
Ribbon with 3 stars representing the campaigns of New Guinea, Luzon and Manila.
Thomas will return to his old position as a guard at the State Penal Farm at
Vandalia, the first of the month.”
William Booth
"The Kinmundy Express”
March 9, 1961 - "Mrs. William E. BOOTH and
children, formerly of Belton, Texas, recently arrived to spend awhile with her
mother, Mrs. A.J. JACKSON. Her husband has been transferred to overseas
duty and she and the children will join him at a later date."
April 6, 1961 - “Mrs. William BOOTH was happy to be
able to talk by telephone to her husband in Seoul, Korea, March 30th. SFC Booth
is stationed in Korea for a year. Mrs. Booth, the former Peggy Jackson, and her
children are making their home with her mother, Mrs. A.J. Jackson, at the
present time."
May 4, 1961 - "Sgt. 1/c and Mrs. William E. BOOTH
and children left Thursday for Midwest City, Okla., Mrs. BOOTH has been staying
with her mother for several weeks but will make her home at Midwest City now
while he husband is overseas."
Dec. 5, 1963 - "Sfc and Mrs. William BOOTH and
family of Norman, Okla. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON called on Mr. and Mrs. Ira
WILLIAMS in Salem Thanksgiving evening. They also visited other relatives
who were visiting in the Williams' home."
March 16, 1967 - "Returns from Berlin: M./Sgt. and
Mrs. Wm. BOOTH and family flew from West Berlin, Germany to N.Y. City, March
6th. On arriving they were told their car and household furnishings were
still on a ship 1500 miles from 1500 miles from N.Y. City. They
decided to rent a car as they would not be able to get theirs for a week.
They arrived here Wednesday evening to visit her mother and sister, Mrs. Nelda
JACKSON and Mr. and Mrs. C.R. WILLIAMS. They left Thursday morning for
Midwest City, Okla. to visit his parents. The BOOTHs have been in West
Berlin the past three years. M./Sgt. BOOTH will be sent to Fort Lewis,
Wash., after he returns from New York with his car."
John T. Boring, Jr.
“The Kinmundy
Express”:
Nov. 12, 1942 - "John BORING, Jr., baker third
class, was home this week visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John BORING."
Aug. 5, 1943 - "Mr.
and Mrs. John BORING of this city have received word that their son, John, Jr.
has been promoted from Baker 3 c to Baker 2 c. John is in the Navy."
June 8, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. John BORING have
received word that their 2 sons, Bk 2 c John and Pr 1 c Joe, met on April 12
somewhere in the southwest Pacific. Needless to say they had a good time
together."
June 22, 1944 - "Here’s one from John BORING Bkr 1 c
of the U.S.N., who is at the present in the Southwest from doing so. Am sorry
to say, but I don’t receive the Express as often as I should. Although it is no
fault of yours. It just does not reach me very often and several of them have
never reached me at all. But believe me when I do get one I read it from front
to back. I am on an island in the Southwest Pacific somewhere. But even though
I am in the South Sea Islands, I can assure you it is not the beautiful,
romantical place some pictures show it to be. Although I can’t complain for I
have had very good duty. (A lot better than some of the boys who were farther
north than I am.) I was privileged to see my brother a few weeks ago. The ship
he is on was in here for several days and we got to visit together quite a few
times. Believe me it sure makes a fellow feel good to see someone he knows out
here. That was the first time I had met anyone I even knew since I came in the
Navy. Wish I could tell you where I am. Perhaps you could tell me if some of
the boys from around home are near me. All I can say is that I am somewhere in
the New Hebrides. If you knew of any of the boys that are close to me, I would
sure appreciate it your letting me know. It seems like a lot of the boys are in
England, but England is a large enough place. I expect it is hard enough for
them to get together. Well, I better sign off for now. But before I do, I want
to thank you for the paper and am enclosing a money order. Perhaps it will help
out. I have been intending to do this for a long time but just never did get
around to it. Wishing you the best of luck."
Sept. 7, 1944 -
"John BORING, Bkr. 1 c
arrived Monday after seeing service in the South Pacific for several months."
Sept. 14, 1944 -
"Swift School: Paul
SWIFT and family were in Kinmundy Sunday attending a dinner for Jr. BORING, who
is home from overseas duty at the John BORING home."
Sept. 28, 1944 -
"John BORING, Bkr 1 c
U.S.N.R., son of Mr. and Mrs. John BORING of Salem and Miss Mae CHERRY, daughter
of Rev. and Mrs. Heber CHERRY of Salem were married Sept. 21 at the home of the
bride. Mrs. Wilbert KURRELMEYER, sister of the bride, and James OSBORNE,
midshipman, cousin of the groom, were the attendants. The mother gave a
reception for the guests. Those were: Mr. and Mrs. Paul SWIFT, Mrs. Roy MULVANY
and daughter, Martha, Mrs. Ervin CHERRY and daughter, Lorene, and children, John
BORING and family, and Heber CHERRY and family."
Joseph "Joe" Boring
“The Kinmundy
Express”:
Oct. 29, 1942 - "Thirteen U.S. Navy blue jackets
successfully completed their course of instruction as parachute riggers when
they made free fall parachute jumps from a Navy transport plane at the U.S.
Naval Air Station here today. “Bailing out” from 2000 feet, each man using a
chute he had examined and packed constituted the final examination for the
riggers course. This was the fourth such group of men to complete the intensive
theory and practice course of packing and caring for the highly important
lifesaving equipment, and after making the required jump the men will be
entitled to wear the identifying insignia of their new military rate. Joe
A. BORING of Kinmundy was among those making the jump."
Nov. 12, 1942 - "Mr.
and Mrs. John BORING have received word from their son, Joe, stating that he has
been promoted to instructor in the Parachute Rigging Corps in the U.S. Navy.
Joe is stationed at Corpus Christi, Texas."
Jan. 28, 1943 - "Joe BORING of the U.S.N. is home
from California for a few days visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John
BORING."
Feb. 25, 1943 - "Mr. and Mrs. John BORING have
received word that their son, Joe, has been promoted to parachute rigger 2nd
class. Joe has been in the navy over a year."
June 3, 1943 - "Private
2nd class Joseph BORING and Miss Nell ROBERSON of Kingsville, Texas were married
in the bride’s home in that city. Joe has been in the Navy for more than a year
and is the second son of Mr. and Mrs. John BORING of this city."
June 8, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. John BORING have
received word that their 2 sons, Bk 2 c John and Pr 1 c Joe, met on April 12
somewhere in the southwest Pacific. Needless to say they had a good time
together."
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Discharged: Joe BORING, P.R. 1/c, son of Mr. and Mrs. John
BORING of Salem, formerly of this city, was given a medical discharge from the
U.S. Navy, Jan. 5, 1945, and arrived home with his wife and baby in Kingsville,
Texas, where they will make their home. Joe served on a carrier for eleven
months as a parachute rigger and was in the battles of Guam and Saipan where he
had a few narrow escapes. He was sent to a hospital in San Diego in
September of 1944 where he remained until discharged, having served 3 years in
the Navy, entering the service on Jan. 6, 1942. Joe is going to start work
in the Postal Services."
James R. Boston
“The Kinmundy
Express”:
May 20, 1943 - "PFC James BOSTON of Washington is
spending his furlough with his wife near Louisville, and his parents Robert
BOSTON and wife of this community."
Dec. 20, 1945 – “Miletus: PFC James BOSTON arrived home last week
with an honorable discharge, having served over 3 years with the U.S. Army. He
had been stationed at Ft. Lewis, Wash., and served as a cook."
Marion Boston
“The Kinmundy
Express”:
Service Men listings from May 1943 thru Jan. 1945.
Avery Boughers
"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill. -
Jan. 24, 1918
"Houston, Texas, Dec. 28, 1917
Dearest Mother - Received the box and was so glad to get it
and thank you very much for it. Tell everyone who sent us presents that I
highly appreciate all they sent me and I thank them very much. Thank Bill
too for me for some cigars he sent me. I hope you all had as good a
Christmas as I did. We had a fine dinner but I did not feel like eating.
Say mother, thank the ones who sent the sweater; thank them very much for me for
it sure is fine; I wear it under my shirt and it is nice and warm. I
did some good shooting on the range, made 150 points out of 175 at 200 to 300
yards and on rapid fire. Say the butter you sent me sure tastes good,
seems like old times; if I only got a hot biscuit once in a while. This is
what we had for our Christmas dinner: turkey and dressing, peas, corn, celery,
cranberries, bread, butter, pie, cigars. We called the pie "Jam pie" for
both crusts were jammed together, but it was mince pie. As ever your
loving son.
Avery BOUGHERS; Co. G.; 130 Inf.; Camp Logan; Houston, Texas
"Marion County Express", Kinmundy,
Ill.
May 30, 1918
"News has been received here of the safe arrival overseas
of Herman ANNA, Eugene CRAIG, Bryan ROBB, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, Abe & Alva
BAYLIS, Chas. HOYT. The many Kinmundy relatives and friends are glad
to know of their safe arrival."
Dec. 5, 1918 - "According to a
message received from the War Department at Washington on Monday by Miss Clara
SEE, residing south of town, her nephew, Herman ANNA, was severally wounded in
battle on Nov. 10, the last day before the signing of the armistice. He
was a member of Co. G 9th Illinois Infantry, a regiment of Federalized National
Guardsmen. In the same Company with him were Abe and Alva BAYLIS, Eugene
CRAIG, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, and Frank HOYT. These boys have been in
France since last summer and have seen considerable hard fighting. It is
with much regret that his many friends learn of Herman's serious injury on the
last day of the great world struggle. Further word received from these
boys states that Abe BAYLIS is in the hospital with a twisted ankle and Avery
BOUGHERS had been slightly gassed. From the number of Illinois boys in the
recent casualty lists, it is very apparent that our boys were just beginning to
get into the fighting."
June 5, 1919 - "Kinmundy 'Prairie Dogs' Return
Home: Members of Company G Return Home Sunday Evening. Three Wear Wound
Stripes and Three others Win Promotion: The people of Kinmundy were pleased to
welcome home, last Sunday evening several of her very own "Prairie Dogs",
members of the famous 33rd Division and more notably of Company G, of Effingham.
Perhaps more than the usual significance attaches to the return of these boys,
because they constituted the largest number from Kinmundy to be in the same
company and regiment throughout the war. Those from this city who enlisted
in this company were: Alvah BAYLIS, Abe BAYLIS, Charles HOYT, Eugene CRAIG,
Avery BOUGHERS, Wm. LEMAY, Bryan ROBB, and Herman ANNA. Of these, the latter
will never return, for he now sleeps beneath the soil of France, made sacred by
the blood of thousands of his comrades in arms. Of the others, three, Chas.
HOYT, Avery BOUGHERS and William LEMAY, wear wound stripes; Abe BAYLIS rose to
the rank of sergeant, and Avery BOUGHERS and Wm. LEMAY to that of corporal.
These boys enlisted in Company G of the Fourth Illinois Infantry. I.N.G., which
became the 130th Infantry upon its federalization on July 25, 1917. They
were then sent to Camp Logan, Texas, whence they sailed for France May 16th,
1918, landing at Brest May 24. They were soon transferred to the English
sector on the Albert and Hamel fronts, where they were the first of the American
troops to fight under an English Flag. Here they participated in several
battles on July 3rd and 4th, and _________________________________ and here
again they were the first of the American soldiers to fight under the French
flag. On Sept. 26 they went into the lines with the American forces, and
remained under fire continuously until the signing of the armistice. Their
hardest fighting came on Nov. 10 in the battle of Marcheville, in which one of
our own boys gave his life. For his work on this day he was
recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross. After the signing of the
armistice they retired to Tillet, France, where after a week's rest, they
matched to Diekireh, Luxembourg, where they remained as a part of the Army of
Occupation until Apr. 24, when they set out on their return to the U.S.A., home
and loved ones. They arrived at Hoboken, N.J., on May 20th, and were sent
to Camp Grant for demobilization, stopping enroute at Chicago to participate in
a great "homecoming" parade. Their regiment and division return with
an enviable record - one of which this company may well be proud. They are
truly entitled to every honor and the glory which they nobly share with others
of our industrious sons who went out to do battle for us."
Glenn Boughers
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 23, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In Training
Camps - Corp. Glenn BOUGHERS
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In Training
Camps - Corp. Glenn BOUGHERS
March 27, 1919 - "Corp. Glenn BOUGHERS returned home Sunday night
from Camp Pike, having received his discharge. He left Tuesday for Decatur
to work."
July 3, 1952 - (From his obituary): "Glenn Louis BOUGHERS,
Sr., son of the late James W. and Lula A. BOUGHERS, passed away in Veterans
Hopsital in Big Springs, Texa, on May 23rd....... Most of Glenn's early life was
spent in Kinmundy. He served in the U.S. Army from 1913 to 1920 and after
getting out of the army he lived in Rochester, Minn. for many years. In
1940 he was elected as Alderman of the 3rd ward and served on the City Council
of Rochester. In World War two, Glenn served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to
1944......"
Cecil Bouseman
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 2, 1918 - "Meacham News: Cecil BOUSEMAN spent a
few days last week with homefolks before leaving for the training camp in New
Jersey."
June 20, 1918 - "Camp Dix Quoto Lands in France" -
"Relatives and friends of this city received notice of the safe arrival in
France of the boys, but one, who left here on April 29 for Camp Dix, N.J.
this is the quickest record made by any contigent in getting into foreign
service, but it was predicted at the time these boys left for a camp in the
eastern part of the country that they would soon be seeing service abroad.
Offical government cards mailed in advance announcing the safe arrival of Hubert
M. FISHER, Melbourn JONES and Cecil BOUSEMAN were received Monday morning.
John WILSON who left here for Camp Dix with these boys, has not been moved but
is still at Camp Dix."
Aug. 8, 1918 - "Word received from Hubert M. FISHER from
"over there" says tell everybody hello and that he was enjoying the best of
health. He tells of frequent visits with Harry RICHARDSON, son of Rev.
W.D. RICHARDSON, former pastor of the M.E. Church of this city."
May 29, 1919 - "More Boys Home: In a steady stream,
as rapidly as the transports can ply the ocean, our soldier boys are returning
to their homes and loved ones and among the recent arrivals have been quite a
number of our own boys. The most recent arrivals are: Luzon JOHNSON,
Clarence BARBEE, Clyde FOSTER, Hubert FISHER, Melbourn JONES, Cecil BOUSEMAN,
Francis ROGER, and Eugene BLACK - the two latter being from Patoka and Tonti
respectively. These boys had all seen considerable service on French fronts
but seem to be little the worse for having passed through the great experience.
With their relatives and friends, the Express joins in extending to them welcome
and wishing for them success in future years. Wm. GREEN also returned."
Richard Bousman (WWII)
Son of Cecil Bousman; grandson of John & Molly Bousman
Russell Bouseman
“The Kinmundy
Express”
Oct. 4, 1956 – “Miss Beverly PHILLIPS, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John
PHILLIPS, Jr. of this city, became the bride of FN Russell BOUSEMAN, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Roy SULLIVAN, of Alma, Saturday morning at 11 o’clock in the Kinmundy
Christian Church with Bro. Rufus G.D. Gerkin performing the double ring
ceremony. ……. Mrs. BOUSEMAN is a senior in K.A.H.S. and plans to continue her
studies. FN BOUSEMAN is in the Navy and is stationed at New Port, R.I., where
he will report back to duty, Oct. 9th. The couple left immediately
after the ceremony for a short honeymoon trip to parts unknown, returning home
Monday morning.”
Apr. 10, 1958 – “Mr. Russell L. BOUSEMAN, 21 year old veteran and a
patient at VA Hospital, Outwood, has been named “Patient of the Week” for
excellent progress in the Rehabilitation Program in the hospital. The American
Legion Auxiliary, Dept. of KY sponsors this part of the overall Rehabilitation
Program and it is under the direction of the PM & R Service. Mr. BOUSEMAN was
admitted Sept. 11, 1957 by transfer from U.S. Naval Hospital, St. Albans, N.Y.
He was referred for treatment Feb. 6, 1958 and assigned to the Educational
Therapy Section for educational courses. He has given full cooperation and is
now progressing nicely. He served about 3 ½ years in the Navy and was a
student at the time of entrance into service, and is married. The Manager, the
Legion Auxiliary and the PM&R Service congratulate Mr. BOUSEMAN and wish him
continued success. Mrs. BOUSEMAN is the former Beverly PHILLIPS of this city.”
Norman Bowman
“The Kinmundy
Express”:
Feb. 17, 1944 - "Here’s
one from Norman BOWMAN, APC, who is aboard the ship U.S.S. LeJeune. Norman will
be remembered by several although he has been away from here for quite some
time. He says: This is to inform you of change in address and to thank you for
your kindness in sending the Kinmundy Express to us fellows in the armed
forces. I have been receiving your paper for quite some time now, and though
there are very few people living in Kinmundy I know - not having lived there
since 1919 when I was about 9 years old - I nevertheless appreciate and enjoy
receiving your paper. It is especially interesting to note the large and ever
increasing number in the services from Kinmundy. It seems that Kinmundy is
doing its share in this war with 290 members in the armed forces."
(V-408) W. Arthur
"Art" Boyd
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Jan. 15, 1942 - "Boys Leave for Camp: Carl and Roy DOOLEN,
Bill GARRETT, Marvin BASSETT, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Willard WILEY, and Merle
SCHNEIDER, left Tuesday night for camp. D.A. ARNOLD, who was released a
few weeks ago on account of being over 28, was recalled and left Sunday night.
Arthur BOYD, Charles KLINE, Paul WRIGHT and Louie Soutier are in St. Louis today
where they are receiving their final physical examinations."
May 13, 1943 - "Arthur BOYD of Calif., arrived
Sunday morning to spend his furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD and
Harry."
Jan. 3, 1946 - “Cpl. Arthur BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin BOYD, arrived home, Dec. 31, after receiving his discharge the same day at
Camp Grant. Cpl. BOYD entered the service Feb. 13,
1942, and shipped overseas Oct. 21, 1943, landing in Scotland. From there he
went to England and then to France and Germany. He started home Dec. 13,
landing at Norfolk, Va., Dec. 24. He wears
the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, and the
European Theater Ribbon. He was attached to the 44th Air Depot Group with the
9th Air Force.”
(V-233b) T. Frank Boyd
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 19, 1941 - "Leave for Camp: Xon SCHOOLEY, Merle HAMMER, D.A. ARNOLD,
and Frank BOYD left Tuesday evening for Chicago where they will be inducted into
selective service."
May 7, 1942 - "Pvt. Thos. Frank BOYD has returned to Camp Polk, La.,
after spending a 7 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Melvin BOYD and
family and friends."
Nov. 12, 1942 - "Pvt. Frank BOYD of Camp Campbell, Tenn. is visiting with
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD."
Apr. 23, 1943 - "Sgt. Frank BOYD of Louisiana is here on a furlough
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD and Harry."
July 22, 1943 - "T/4 Frank BOYD came Sunday for a few days visit with his
parents Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD and Harry."
Dec. 2, 1943 - "Sgt. Frank BOYD arrived Saturday for a few days visit
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD."
June 22, 1944 - "Sgt. Frank BOYD of Texas is enjoying a few days here
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD and Harry."
Aug. 16, 1945 – “By
direction of the president, the award of the Silver Star was made to Thomas F.
BOYD, for gallantry in action on 24 April, in the city of
Burgau, Germany. When the patrol of which he was
as member was ambushed, by the enemy, T4 BOYD remaining fully exposed to small arms fire and hand grenades,
distracted the enemy’s attention from the other members of the patrol until they
were in position to withstand the attack. Still under heavy fire, he and his
patrol leader defused two 500 lbs. bombs which were prepared to blow the
bridge. By his courageous action T4 BOYD saved the patrol from many casualties and failure in it’s mission. His
action was an inspiration to the men, resulted in the capture of the bridge, and
opened a route vital to the advance of friendly elements. Thomas Frank
BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin BOYD, entered the service June 17,
1941. He had his basic training in Louisiana. Soon after he was sent to
Kentucky for training as a radio operator, and on to Texas for further
training. He arrived in England and soon after in France, and on into Germany
where the award was presented. Frank is with the 92nd “Charley” Division at the
present time.”
Dec. 13, 1945 – “T4 Frank BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD, arrived home Dec. 10 after receiving his discharge at
Camp Grant the day previous. Frank
entered the service June 18, 1941 and shipped overseas Sept. 20, 1944, landing
in England. From there he went to France, then to Alsace, and then into
Germany. He started home Nov. 21, and landed in New York, Dec. 1. Cpl. Frank
wears the American Defense Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Good Conduct
Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the European Theater Ribbon with 2 stars representing
the campaigns of Central Europe and the Rhineland, and the Silver Star, awarded for meritorious service. We are all
happy to have Frank back with us and he says he is happy to be back and is very
thankful that he reached home in time for the last day of quail season.”
Dec. 20, 1945 – “T4 Frank BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD, who was discharged Dec. 9. He served in the European Theater and
served 14 months overseas. He received the Silver Star for meritorious
service.”
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(V-234b) Fred Boyd
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Dec. 9, 1943 - "Greetings: Mark ARNOLD and Fred BOYD
have received 'greetings' and will report for induction next week along with 53
other boys from this county under the jurisdiction of the Salem Selective
Board."
March 8, 1944 - "Report for Examination: Dwight
ALEXANDER, Fred BOYD, Glen WHITE, Herschel KRUTSINGER, Albert CORRELL and George
BUTTS, of Kinmundy, and Richard GRAY and Roy Otis HINES of Alma, were asked this
week to report for the physical examination, preparatory to entering the armed
forces. In addition to these boys, there are 117 others from the Salem
district making a total of 125 for this area."
Apr. 20, 1944 - "Fred BOYD and George BUTTS left
Sunday night for Chicago to enter the army."
June 22, 1944 - "Pvt. Fred BOYD returned Saturday to
his camp in South Carolina, having been called here due to the accident of their
son, Billie."
Oct. 12, 1944 - "Mrs. Fred BOYD left Tuesday night
to visit with her husband for two weeks in New York."
March 29, 1945 - "PFC Fred BOYD of New York is here
on furlough."
Aug. 23, 1945 - "PFC Fred BOYD returned to his army
duties Saturday after spending a furlough here with his family."
Dec. 13, 1945 – “PFC Fred BOYD arrived home Saturday to again be with his family and his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Mel BOYD. He received his
discharge at Camp Grant the day previous. PFC Fred entered the service April
17, 1944, and was assigned to the Enlisted Transport Command with headquarters
at New York. He made 3 round trips to Europe and back. PFC Fred wears the Good
Conduct Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Ribbon, the European
Theater Ribbon, and the Unit Citation. Mr. and Mrs. BOYD have 4 boys: Jack, 10;
Bill, 8; Richard, 6; and Tom, 3.”
Dec. 20, 1945 – “PFC Fred BOYD, local rural mail carrier, who was discharged Dec. 7th. PFC Boyd was
in the Enlisted Transport Command and made 3 round trips to
Europe.”
Jack Boyd
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Apr. 28, 1955 - "Jack F. BOYD, 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred BOYD,
Kinmundy, Ill. is completing his Air Force basic military training at Lackland
Air Force Base, the "Gateway to the Air Force. His Lackland
training is preparing him for entrance into Air Force Technical training or for
Air Force duty assignment. The course includes a scientific evaluation of
his aptitude and inclination for following a particular career field.
Lackland, situated near San Antonio, is the site of Air Force basic military
training for men and women and home of the USAF Officer Military School, of
which the USAF Officer Candidate School, the USAF Pre-Flight School and Officers
Pre-Flight Group are operating units."
May 5, 1955 - “A 3C Jack BOYD arrived home Saturday
from Lackland Air Base,
San Antonio,
Texas, on a 10 day leave before reporting to Amarillo Air Base, Amarillo,
Texas.”
Aug. 25, 1955 - "A/3C Jack BOYD is spending a 30-day furlough
here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred BOYD enroute from Amarillo Air Force
Base to Liverpool, England."
Oct. 23, 1958 – “A 2c Jack BOYD recently received his
discharge from the Air Force and arrived in Kinmundy on Oct. 17 to visit his
father, Fred
BOYD and family.”
Dec. 12, 1963 - "Jack BOYD, of the U.S. Army and who is stationed in
California, spent from Thursday until Sunday, with Mr. and Mrs. Fred BOYD and
other relatives."
(V-481) William A. "Bill" Boyd
"The Kinmundy Express":
Jan. 11, 1968 - "Inducted Into the
Army: William BOYD, son of Mrs. Marjorie BOYD, was inducted into the army in St.
Louis Monday morning. He will receive his basic training at Fort Leonard
Wood, Mo."
Jan. 18, 1968 - "Pvt. William A.
BOYD is stationed at Fort Leonard Wood for his basic training."
May 23, 1968 - Sp/4 Bill Boyd, Ft.
Sills, Okla., is spending an 18-day furlough at home, after which he will leave
for Ft. Lewis, Wash., enroute to Vietnam. He was met in Joplin, Mo. by his
mother, Mrs. Marge Boyd and fiancee, Miss Anne Lacey."
June 6, 1968 - "SP/4 William A Boyd enjoyed a short leave at home before leaving
Wednesday, June 5th from St. Louis via Tacoma, Wash. for Vietnam.
Visitors in the BOYD home the past week were Mr. and Mrs. H.M. BOYD and son,
Highland, Mr. and Mrs. J.K. HAWKINS, Olney, Mr. and Mrs. David BOYD and son,
Salem, Mrs. Betty ELSTON and son, of Champaign; Mrs. Marge CORRELL, St. Louis,
and her mother, Mrs. Hattie HUDDLESTUN, Mrs. Wayne PIGG and daughter, Karen,
Goodyear, Ariz., Mr. and Mrs. K.V. ALBERSON, Mattoon, and Bruce GRAY of Salem,
Mrs. Joann ALLEN and Shannon, Atwood, Mrs. Fred MISELBROOK and Phillip SCHOOLEY."
July 4, 1968 - "Army Specialist Four William A Boyd, 20, son of Mrs. Marjorie E.
Boyd, Kinmundy, was assigned as an artillery surveyor in Howitzer Battery, 1st
Squadron of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Vietnam, June 15."
Feb. 6, 1969 - "Mrs. Marge Boyd received word from her son, William A. Boyd that
he had been promoted from SP/4 to SP/5 the latter part of January. SP/5 William
A. Boyd is stationed in Vietnam."
June 12, 1969 - "SP/5 Bill Boyd
returned home Sunday evening after spending a year in Vietnam. He will
report for duty at Fort Sill, Okla."
William D. "Bill" Boyd
“The Kinmundy Express”:
June 9, 1955 - "Leave for Military Training: Four
local youths enlisted in the Armed Forces and left for training this week.
Bill BOYD and Larry SULLENS left Monday for Lackland Air Force Base at El Paso,
Texas. Jerry MORRIS and Carl JONES left Tuesday to enter Boot training at
Great Lakes Naval Base."
Sept. 1, 1955 - Home on Leave: A/3c Larry SULLENS
and A/3C Bill BOYD arrived home Friday from Lackland Air Base where they have
finished their basic training. They are spending leave with their parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Lewie SULLENS and Mr. and Mrs. Fred BOYD. Bill will report to
Wichita Falls, Texas, and Larry will be stationed at Chanute Field."
Sept. 29, 1955 – “A 3C William D. BOYD, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Fred BOYD, Kinmundy, has entered the United States Air Force Technical
Training School at Sheppard Air Force Base, located near
Wichita Falls,
Texas. During his specialized training as a student at Sheppard, he will
receive intensive training designed to provide him with the thorough knowledge
and basic skills which he will be required to possess for his work as an
aircraft and engine mechanic. Upon completion of the course, along with the majority of graduates in
his class, he will be assigned to one of the major Air Force Commands for
on-the-job experience, or will enter a course of advanced training. He entered
the Air Force on June 6, 1955.”
Dec. 22, 1955 - "A/3C Bill BOYD of Sheppard Field, San Antonia, Texas,
came Saturday night for an 18-day visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred BOYD
and friends."
Jan. 5, 1956 – “A 3C Bill BOYD left Saturday for
Wichita Falls, Texas after spending furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred
BOYD. He accompanied A 2C Don SAPP, who had been visiting his aunt, Mrs. Marge
CORRELL to Texarkana, Texas enroute to Waco, Texas.”
Jan. 13, 1994 - (From his obituary): "....
Bill was born on June 21, 1937, the son of Fred and Nelda PULLEN BOYD. He
retired from the Illinois Central Railroad after 34 years and served in the
United States Air Force, 1955-59. He married Janet HUDDLESTUN in 1960.
Then he married Rosaan RAMSEY McCASLIN in 1978..... "
(V-142) Joe Bradley
Kevin Bragg
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 9, 1989 -
“Mr. and Mrs. Robert VALBERT of Gooseneck, S.C., and Mr. and Mrs. James BRAGG of
Salem, announce the engagement of their children, Brenda and Kevin. BRAGG, a
1987 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, is a MS 3 in the United States Navy
stationed in Charleston, S.C., Miss VALBERT, a 1987 graduate of Goose Creek
High School is employed at Morrison’s Cafeteria, Charleston. A Nov. 25 wedding
dates is set at the Eternal Father of the Sea Chapel, Charleston, South
Carolina. A local reception will be held December 2 at Alma Christian church at
2 p.m. The public is invited.”
Jan. 24, 1991 – “As Operation Desert Shield escalated to Desert Storm
last Wednesday evening, Jan. 16th, our thoughts and prayers were with
local servicemen stationed in the Middle East. We’re sure they would appreciate
words of encouragement from home. Here are the addresses of some who we know
are involved in the operation …. A1C Kevin BRAGG, Fleet Hospital 5 1MES ….”
Dec. 22, 1994 – “Sandy Branch West: LaVerne HALL reports that their
grandson, Kevin BRAGG, will be home for a short leave from Naval Duty at a
Carribean Naval Station in Cuba. Kevin is visiting his parents who reside at
Louisville, IL and the HALLS will be spending Christmas Day with him.”
Arlie Clifford Branson
“The Kinmundy Express” – Nov. 24, 1955 – “S. Sgt. Arlie C. BRANSON of Kinmundy
and in the 2nd Marine Aircraft wing in Cherry Point, N.C., is taking
part in major amphibious exercises.”
Oggie Branson
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 5, 1939 - "Leroy BRIMBERRY and Oggie BRANSON of
the CCC Camp at Charleston spent the weekend in the Brimberry home."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “Omega: Oggie BRANSON, who has been discharged from the army,
was here Saturday. A dinner was held at his mother’s home in Salem in his
honor.”
Richard Branson
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Apr. 19, 1945 - "Mrs. Richard BRANSON who has been
visiting her husband at a camp in California, returned a few days ago to the
home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emil MEYER and baby daughter."
May 24, 1945 - "Lt. Richard E. BRANSON arrived
Sunday to spend a few days with his wife and daughter, Penny Sue."
March 7, 1946 –“Word has been received by his wife that Lt. Richard BRANSON was
one of the 18 survivors of a C-47 transport plane which crashed on Casiguron
Sound off the East coast of Luzon. The survivors were
rescued and taken to a hospital in Manila for treatment.”
Allen Brasel
"The Kinmundy Express":
Nov. 11, 1943 - "Receives Greetings: According to
the list received from the local Selective Service Board, John Wade BOYD of
Salem, Dean Russell BRUBAKER, Allen Lawrence BRASEL, and Harry Mike DOUDERA, of
Alma, have been ordered to report for induction along with 37 other men from
this county. John BOYD is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD of this city.
Oct. 26, 1944 -
"PFC Allen BRASEL, Alma Lad, Loses Life in
Action in Holland on Oct. 5th: Our neighboring village of Alma received more bad
news yesterday when a telegram from the War Dept., addressed to Mr. and Mrs.
Paul B. BRASEL stating their son PFC Allen Lawrence BRASEL, had been killed in
action on Oct. 5, in Holland. This lad was well known in Meacham twp., also
being the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas NEAL. The family also lived in Meacham
twp. quite some time before moving to Alma. Allen, the eldest of 6 children, son
of Paul B. and Sylvia NEAL BRASEL, was born in Taylorville on Feb. 29, 1924. He
entered the service on Dec. 8, 1943, and received most of his training in South
Carolina. He shipped overseas in June, 1944, landing in England and then on to
France. His last furlough home was on May 5th, being granted 15 days before
shipping overseas. The last letter received by the parents was dated Sept. 27.
He was a member of the Co. E, 120th Infantry Battalion. PFC. Allen was a good boy
and no one has never heard naught about him. He was an ardent church worker and
was a member of the Christian Church in Alma. Our hearts go out to this good
family in their bereavement."
(V-185) Allen Brasel
"The Kinmundy Express":
Nov. 2, 1944 - "Memorial services for PFC Allen
BRASEl, who was killed in action in Holland, Oct. 8, 1944, will be held Sunday,
Nov. 19th at 2 p.m. in the Christian Church in Alma. All friends invited."
Nov. 16, 1944 - "BRASEL Memorial: Memorial Services
will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock in the Alma Christian Church for PFC
Allen L. BRASEL. Song-Quartet; Prayer-Rev. WILSON; Song-Quartet;
Message-Rev. Geo. KELLY; Remarks-Rev. L.E. HARD; Song-Quartet."
Apr. 12, 1945 - "Posthumous Award of Bronze Medal in Alma" - "Posthumous
award of the Bronze Medal by U.S. Army officers to Mr. and Mrs. Paul BRASEL,
whose son, Pfc. Allen BRASEL, was killed in action in Holland last October 5,
will be made at 11 a.m. Sunday, April 15 at the Alma Christian church. The
medal is awarded for gallantry and unusual courage in action against the enemy.
Lieutenants Toliver and Miller from Chicago will present the medal to Mr. and
Mrs. BRASEL at a special service in the Alma church to be conducted by the Rev.
Thomas Wilson, pastor of the Louisville Christian Church. The public is
invited to attend his service."
Oct. 30, 1947 - PFC Allen L. BRASEL & Pvt. Emmett N.
SHOEMAKER to Arrive in Kinmundy Soon: The casketed remains of two Alma men,
World War II deceased members of the Armed Forces returned from overseas for
final burial, will arrive in Kinmundy in the next few weeks, each accompanied by
a uniformed U.S. Army escort from the Chicago Distribution of the American
Graves Registration Division. The body of Private First Class Allen L.
BRASE, who served overseas with the U.S. Army, was interred in the Herni
Chapelle temporary cemetery in Belgium, but has been returned to this country
for final interment at the request of his next of kin, Mr. Paul BRASEL, Alma,
Ill. The body of Private Emmett N. SHOEMAKER, who served overseas with the
U.S. Army, was interred in the Herni Chapelle temporary military cemetery in
Belgium, but has been returned to this country for final interment at the
request of his next of kin, Mrs. Gertie SHOEMAKER, General Delivery, Salem,
Ill."
Allen B. Brasel funeral card
(V-185b) Allen Brasel funeral in
Alma, Illinois
"The Kinmundy Express" -
December 4, 1947 - "A Soldier
Boy Comes Back to His Home in Alma: As one passed through our neighboring
village of Alma this week, you noticed the flag dancing in the breeze at
half-mast. This was a tribute to Alma’s first returned War Dead. Seeing Old
Glory floating at half-mast caused the passerby to stop for a moment and bow his
head in silent prayer. This boy has come home - a hero. After having been away
from his loved ones since May 5, 1944, Private First Class Allen L. BRASEL is
home. As Train 123 came to stop in Kinmundy Monday morning, a tear came to the
eye as the baggage door was opened and the flag-draped casket of PFC BRASEL was
placed in the awaiting hearse. The honor guard of uniformed men stood at
attention and gave a hand salute. One heard the soft cries from the broken
hearts of the family. Then you stopped and thought that this is what our hero
waited and hoped for - to come home. Hardly a day passed in his army life that
he didn’t think about home and of all the swell things that went with it. He had
dreams of what home would be like as he lay in the mud of Holland with the hell
of war around him. On Oct. 5, 1944, in a battle near Kerkrade, Holland, PFC BRASEL met the Supreme Commander. The war and the hard road of life was over for
him. Only 20 years of age - too young we may think, but this was God’s means of
calling him to his Heavenly Home. Yes, PFC BRASEL gave his all for us so that we
could go on with our way of life as free men and enjoy the fruits of our way of
life. We hope that this boy, along with the thousands of other fallen heros, did
not die in vain. We also hope that the leaders of the world powers will remember
the golden rule and will carry it out to the fullest measure. PFC BRASEL entered
the service of his country on Dec. 8, 1943 and received most of his training in
South Carolina. He shipped overseas in June, 1944, landing in England and then
on to France. He was a member of Company E, 120th Infantry Battalion.
The mortal remains of PFC BRASEL were accompanied here from Chicago by Cpl.
George M. DUNCAN, a veteran of World War II. The train was met by members of the
family, friends, and a honor guard of uniformed men from Kinmundy Legion Post
No. 519. The honor guard accompanied the body to the family home in Alma.
Funeral services were held yesterday from the Christian Church in Alma with Rev. WILSON
officiating and Rev. HARD assisting. Interment was made in Alma cemetery under
the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legend. PFC BRASEL was the
eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Paul BRASEL."
Dec. 11, 1947 - "Card of Thanks: We wish to thank
all of our neighbors and friends who helped in any way, for your many kind words
of sympathy and condolence, for the beautiful flowers, the sweet music, Kinmundy
Post 519, American Legion for their beautiful services, and to Mr. LINTON for
his untiring services during the burial of our dear son, PFC Allen L. BRASEL."
(V-409) Benny D. Brasel
“The
Kinmundy Express”:
Jan. 25, 1951 – “Bennie D. BRASEL, seaman recruit, USN, son
of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL of Rt. 1, Kinmundy, is undergoing recruit training
at the Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, Ill. Recruit training is the
sharp break between civilian and Naval life in which the new Navy man learns the
fundamental principles of the Naval service. In the course of his training
the recruit is taught seamanship, Navy customs, terms, basic ordnance, gunnery,
signaling and navigation. Upon completion of his training the recruit is
assigned either to units of the Fleet or to a service school for specialized
training.”
Sept. 27, 1951 - "Bennie BRASEL of the U.S. Navy, is visiting his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL this week."
Apr. 2, 1953 - "Miss Betty Lou MITCHELL, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John
MITCHELL of Farina, and RD2 Benny BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL,
were united in marriage in a quiet single ring ceremony at the home of
Rev. Angus PHILLIPS, Saturday morning, March 28th. They were
attended by Miss Nellie McKINNEY of Louisville, a friend of the bride, and Harry
BRASEL, brother of the groom. The groom was graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in
1948, and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1950. The Bride received her
education at Farina. The bride received her education in Farina. Mr.
BRASEL will leave Saturday for Norfolk, Va. Mrs. BRASEL will remain in Farina
for the present."
June 11, 1953 - "Benny BRASEL of the U.S.N. returned to his ship Tuesday
at Annapolis, Md. after a few days leaves at home."
July 30, 1953 – “Benny D. BRASEL on Training Cruise:
Ships of the 1953 Midshipman Practice Squadron now on their last 4 weeks of
training operations will return to Norfolk, Va. in Aug. Aboard the small
aircraft carrier USS Saipan is Benny D. BRASEL, radarman second class, USN, son
of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL. Before returning, the ships will have visited ports
in
South America and the
West
Indies during the 2 months training cruise.”
Sept. 24, 1953 - "RD2 Benny BRASEL will report to his
ship at Norfolk, Va., the last of this week and will sail for Korea on Sept.
28th."
April 1, 1954 – “Benny D. BRASEL, Radarman second
class, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL, Kinmundy, and husband of the former
Miss Betty L. MITCHELL of Farina, is serving aboard the light aircraft carrier,
USS Saipan here. The Saipan is participating in exercise “Flag Hoist” conducted
at
Iwo Jima
during the latter part of March. She is supplying close air support to
amphibious units of the Pacific Fleet during the simulated attack on the
strategic island. The Saipan is on a tour of duty in the far east with UN
forces and is attached to the Blockading and Escort Task Force 95.”
July 15, 1954 – “Benny D. BRASEL to return to States:
The USS Saipan is scheduled to return here July 20th completing a
round the world cruise and a tour of duty off
Korea.
Serving aboard the light aircraft carrier is Benny D. BRASEL, radarman, second
class, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL of Kinmundy, and husband of Mrs.
Betty L. BRASEL of Effingham. Before arriving at Norfolk, the Saipan
stopped at Mayport, Fla., to transfer Marine Attack Squadron 324 to its home
station at marine Corps Air Base, Miami. the Saipan left Norfolk last
September and transmitted the Panama Canal to arrive at Yokosuka, Japan, on Dec.
1st. Since that date, the Saipan has been alternating as the active
carrier of the UN forces in the Yellow Sea. Besides carrying out her
regular duties, the carrier took part in the prisoner-of-war release from Korea,
delivered aircraft to French forces in Indo-China and participated in Marine
landing exercises in Iwo Jima."
Nov. 7, 1957 – “Benny Dean BRASEL, Rt. 1 Kinmundy reenlisted
in the U.S. Navy for 4 years, Oct. 30, 1957. He will be transferred to
Washington, D.C. for further transfer. He was enlisted as a Radarman 3rd
class.”
May 7, 1959 - "Benny D. BRASEL, radarman second class, USN, son of Mr.
and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL, of Kinmundy, Ill., is serving aboard the attack aircraft
carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt operating with the U.S. Sixth Fleet in the
Mediterranean. The Roosevelt recently 'replenished at sea',
establishing a record in receiving well over 300 gross tons of replenishment
supplies during a one day period. The carrier anchored in Cannes, France,
for 5 days, May 28 for liberty and recreation. The ship is scheduled to
return to Mayport, Fla., during late August or early September."
Sept. 1, 1960 - "RD/1 Benny BRASEL of the U.S. Navy, is spending a leave
with his family in Centralia, and also with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette
BRASEL and other relatives."
April 20, 1961 - “Benny D. BRASEL, radarman second
class, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. Brasel of Rt. 1 Kinmundy, is serving aboard
the attack aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt operating with the Sixth
Fleet in the
Mediterranean.
The
Roosevelt
is scheduled to visit several Mediterranean countries during the 7 month cruise,
and conduct training exercises to maintain its high level of readiness and
efficiency.”
June 22, 1961 - "Aboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt: Serving aboard the
attack aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt with the Sixth Fleet in the
Mediterranean is Benny D. BRASEL, radarman second class, USN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. B.G. BRASEL of Route 1, Kinmundy. The officers and men of the attack
carrier recently visited Athens, Greece, where they received a well deserved
short leave following an extensive training period with the Sixth Fleet.
The Sixth Fleet is a force composed of some 50 ships and more than 25,000 men,
posing a strong deterant to aggression in Europe."
May 10, 1962 – “Benny D. BRASEL, radarman first class, USN, son of Mr.
and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL of Route 1, Kinmundy, IL, is serving aboard the
anti-submarine warfare support aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, a unit taking part
in the first Atlantic Fleet Amphibious Force exercise of the year, to be
climaxed with an assault landing on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico. The
joint Navy-Marine Corps maneuver, scheduled to run from April 9 to 30, includes
more than 40,000 sailors and Marines aboard some 83 Atlantic Fleet ships.”
Jan. 10, 1963 - "Benny D. BRASEL, radarman first class, USN, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL, of Kinmundy, Ill., is serving aboard the
seaplane tender USS Greenwich Bay, scheduled to return to Norfolk, Va., in March
after serving in the Middle East. The Greenwich Bay spent much of the
deployment in the Persian Gulf as the flagship of Commancher, U.S. Naval Middle
East Force. The ship visited ports in Jordan, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Aden,
Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iran."
March 14, 1963 – “Mr. Burdette BRASEL was very happy Sunday morning when
his son, RD1 Bennie, of the U.S. Navy called and talked to him, by ham radio and
telephone connected through Chicago. He was 600 miles off the coast of Cape
Hatteras, and reported the weather there was miserable that day in the form of
heavy rain and wind. Bennie did not get to talk to his mother as she was at
church when he called.”
Feb. 11, 1965 –“Word has been received that Benny D.
BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. Brasel has been promoted from R.D.1 to R.D.C.A.,
Chief Radarman U.S.N., effective Jan. 16th. Chief Petty Officer is
the highest enlisted rank in the Navy. He has had 14 years service, including
Atlantic and Pacific Fleet Aircraft carriers,
submarines and command ships, and various naval schools. He also is a Korean
and Indo-China veteran. His last station was the Command Ship,
U.S.S.
Greenwich Bay out of Norfolk, Va. He is now attached to the Recruit Training
Command, U.S.N.T.C.,
Great Lakes.
His promotion was the result of a Fleet wide competitive examination.”
Jan. 6, 1966 – “BRASEL Selected RTC’s CC of week: Benny D. BRASEL, RDC,
has been selected as Company Commander of the week at Recruit Training Command.
He arrived at RTC in march and has commanded companies 183, 352, 514 and Reserve
Companies AO123, AO129, and AO146. BRASEL enlisted in the Navy in December 1950
and after recruit training here attended Radarman “A” School in Norfolk, Va. He
was then assigned to the battleship USS Wisconsin and later served aboard the
aircraft carrier USS Saipan. In 1954, then a Radarman First Class: he decided
to go back to civilian life, but in 1957 he re-enlisted in the Navy as a
Radarman Third Class. He went to Radarman “B” School in Treasure Island, San
Francisco and upon completion of the school was assigned to the aircraft carrier
USS Franklin D. Roosevelt for 2 years and then reported aboard the aircraft
carrier USS Intrepid. Prior to arriving here, he serviced aboard the USS
Greenwish Bay, Flagship for Commander, Middle East Forces, homeported at Bahrein
in the Persian Gulf. BRASEL is the son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL, Kinmundy,
IL. (Great Lakes Bulletin, Dec. 30, 1965)”
June 27, 1968 – “Benny BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G.
Brasel, Kinmundy, has been promoted, effective June 1st, to Warrant
Officer, Operations Technician, U.S. Navy, from his enlisted rate of Chief
Radarman. He has been assigned for the past 3½ years as Company Commander and
as Special Services Division Officer at Recruit Training Command, N.T.C.,
Great Lakes
and is presently assigned as a Battalion Commander at Recruit Training Command
while awaiting further orders.”
(V-410) Dale W. Brasel (served in the Navy
during World War II in the Pacific Theater)
"The Kinmundy Express":
June 1, 1944 - "Accepted for Army and Navy: The following men
have been accepted for service in the armed forces, Dale BRASEL, Salem; Wm.
BROOM, Raymond DOUDERA and Harold JONES, Alma; Frederick MISELBROO, Ray
BOUGHERS, Jason GOODWIN, Francis KRUTSINGER, and Walter BRIMBERRY, of Kinmundy."
Denton G. Brasel
“The Kinmundy Express”;
Oct. 28, 1948 - "Denton BRASEL, U.A.F., Dallas, Texas, is
visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL."
Dec. 30, 1948 - "Denton BRASEL, a member of the army air corps,
is spending a holiday leave here with his parents."
Jan. 20, 1949 - "Jack HOYT, Denton BRASEL, and Vernon JEZEK, all
members of the Army Air Corps, stationed at Chanute Field, spent the weekend
here with their parents."
Nov. 16, 1950 - "Cpl. Denton G. BRASEL, who has been stationed in
Canal Zone, spent last week here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL.
He was enroute to Selfridge Field, Mich., where he will be stationed."
March 29, 1951 - "Miss Nelly Suarez OVARES, of San Jose, Costa
Rica, and Cpl. Denton BRASEL, of Selfridge Field, Mich., were married in
Brownsville, Texas, on March 16 at the home of a friend, Mrs. Alfred Basler.
After a 5 day honeymoon, the bride returned to her native land and the groom
came to Kinmundy to spend a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL.
After finishing his 30 day furlough here, he will return to Selfridge Field,
where he is stationed and where he will await the coming of his bride. The
bride is a school teacher in her home city. Cpl. BRASEL became acquainted
with her while he was stationed there. Soon after they decided to get
married, they found it was not an easy matter. Of course, he could not go
bac, to the states. And she couldn't come with him in the states of
account of the immigration laws. Finally she entered the United States via
Mexico, on a visitor's visa, and they were married. But now she must
return to Costa Rica and start clearing her way through immigration officials.
Inasmuch as she is now married to an American soldier, she has been told that
her papers will clear in a very short time."
May 10, 1951 - "Cpl. and Mrs. Denton BRASEL left Monday for
Florida where they will make their home."
May 29, 1952 - "S/Sgt. and Mrs. Denton BRASEL and daughter, of
Aglin Field, Fla., left yesterday for their home after a visit here with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL. This is the first time Grandma and
Grandpa Brasel have seen their granddaughter."
June 9, 1955 - "T/Sgt and Mrs. Denton G. BRASEL and daughter left
Thursday for their home at Elgin Air Force Base, Florida, after spending their
vacation here, with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL and other relatives
and friends."
Aug. 25, 1955 – “T/S Denton BRASEL arrived here Friday
with all of his belongings to visit a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Glen BRASEL, before leaving for Greenland where he will be stationed for the
next year. He sent his wife and children back to her native country,
Costa Rica,
where she will remain during his absence. She will teach school there this
year.”
Apr. 12, 1956 - "T/Sgt. Denton BRASEL arrived here from Greenland
Sunday. Sgt. BRASEL will meet his wife and four daughters, who are flying
from Costa Rica, in Miami, Sunday. They will return here and live in their
trailer while Denton returns to his army post in Greenland. He expects to
come home in September."
Sept. 20, 1956 - "T./Sgt. Denton BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL,
arrived Friday from Greenland, where he had spent the past year. He joined
his wife and family, who have been making their home here for the past 6 months.
After his leave, he will be stationed at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas."
Aug. 13, 1959 – “T. Sgt. Denton BRASEL and daughters,
Rosemary and Millie, of Stead Air Base, Nev., arrived Monday for a short visit
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL and other relatives. Denton will
leave soon for Camp Perry, Ohio, where he will still be shooting with the Air
Force Training Command Rifle Team. His daughters will remain here until his
return.”
Dec. 31, 1959 – “Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL are in receipt of
a clipping from the “Flight Times” published at Sparks, Nevada, giving the
picture of their son, T. Sgt. Denton G. BRASEL being awarded the bronze USAF
Excellence in Competition badge for his aptitude with a 45 cal. pistol.
The badge was presented by Lt. Col. Skidmore N. Garrett, Executive officer of
ABGrue. Sergeant BRASEL was given the
award was for his record in the 1959 ATC pistol match. Sgt. BRASEL is stationed
at Stead Air Force Base near Reno, Nevada.”
July 19, 1962 - "T/Sgt. Denton BRASEL of Stead Air Force Base, Reno,
Nevada, spent from Wednesday evening until Sunday evening with his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Glen BRASEL and Linda, and other relatives. He was enroute to
Camp Perry, Ohio, where he is stationed for a few weeks."
Nov. 26, 1964 - "Receives Promotion: T/Sgt. Denton BRASEL of
Lackland Air Base, Texas, has received word of a promotion to M/Sgt., effective
Dec. 1st. He is serving his 16th year in the United States Air Force.
T/Sgt. BRASEL is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL of Kinmundy."
Feb. 4, 1965 - "M/Sgt. Denton G. BRASEl, stationed with the U.S.
Air Force at Lackland AFB, Texas, has been transferred from his job as a
marksmanship Instructor Supervisor to the All Air Force National Rifle Team.
The team consists of the top 20 high power rifle shooters in the Air Force and
represents the Air Force throughout the United States in High Power Rifle
Matches, and at the National Championships at Camp Perry, Ohio, each
August......"
Sept. 21, 1967 - "Master Sgt. Denton G. BRASEL, San Antonio,
Texas, is visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glen BRASEL and Linda. They
all spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Dick DEADMOND and family, El Paso."
July 4, 1968 – “The U.S. Air Force has announced the
coming retirement of Master Sergeant Denton G. BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen
B. Brasel of Kinmundy. Sergeant Brasel, who is scheduled to retire in September
after more than 20 years service, is an instructor at the USAF Marksmanship
School at Lackland AFB, Tex. He is a member of the Air Training Command. A
graduate of Kinmundy High School, the sergeant attended the
Univ. of
Illinois. His wife is the former Nelly Suarez from Central America. Mr. and
Mrs. Brasel and 5 children spent last week here with their parents. They were
enroute to
Reno,
Nevada,
where Mr. Brasel will enter the University and complete his education. Mrs.
Brasel is a school teacher by profession and will teach in
Reno.
The eldest daughter will also enter the university.”
May 28, 1992 – “An Employee Appreciation Dinner was held in the South
Central High School Gymnasium to honor Mr. Denton BRASEL, Mr. Merle E. MAGNUS,
Mrs. Mary Jane LOWE, and Mr. Calvin RUNGE on April 25. Mr. Denton G. BRASEL
will retire this year after 19 years in education. Mr. BRASEL attended Sherman
Grade School and graduated from Kinmundy Community High School. He attended the
U. of I. for one year and graduated from the Univ. of Nevada (Reno). Mr. BRASEL
served in the U.S. Air Force from 1948 until retiring in 1968 as a MSgt. He
served in the Panama Canal Zone as a jet fighter and helicopter mechanic and in
Greenland with the 51st Air Rescue as a helicopter mechanic. Mr.
BRASEL was a small arms instructor from 1958 on and served the last 4 years as a
member of the All Air Force High Power Rifle Team. He won the 1968 All Air
Force High Power Rifle Championship. In 1973 he moved back to Illinois and
taught at Salem High School in the spring of 1973. Mr. BRASEL has taught at
Kinmundy-Alma and then at South Central since fall of 1973. Mr. BRASEL is the
son of Glen BRASEL and the late Dola BRASEL. His wife is Nelly SUAREZ. Mr.
BRASEL has four daughters, Rosemary BRYAN, Millie WASHBURN, Denise NICHOLS, and
Linda SCHADE; and one son, Denton, Jr. Mr. BRASEL has 19 grandchildren. Mr.
BRASEL plans to farm and travel.”
Denton G. Brasel, Jr.
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Nov. 20, 1980 - "Brasel
Completes Basic Training – Navy Fireman Denton G. BRASEL, Jr., son of Denton G.
and Nelly S. BRASEL of Route 2, Kinmundy, has completed recruit training at the
Naval Training Center, Orlando, Fla. During the 8 week training cycle, trainees
studied general military subjects designed to prepare them for further academic
and on-the-job training in one of the Navy’s 85 basic occupational fields.
Included in their studies were seamanship, close order drill, Naval history and
first aid. A 1977 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, and a graduate of
Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL, with an associate of arts degree,
he joined the Navy in June 1980.”
Dec. 18, 1980 – “Denton BRASEL, Jr. flew to Norfolk, Virginia, Dec. 11th,
to board the aircraft carrier, USS Nimitz, following a 15 day leave at the home
of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Denton BRASEL, Sr. He would appreciate hearing
from his friends. His address is: FN Denton G. BRASEL, Jr., USN, Engineering
Dept., Division R., USS Nimitz …..”
May 27, 1982 – “Petty Officer 3rd Class Denton BRASEL, Jr.,
left Sunday evening after spending a 10-day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Denton BRASEL and other relatives. While here he attended the 5th
year class reunion of his high school class at Austin’s Restaurant in Salem.
Denton is stationed on the USS Nimitz Air Craft.”
Harry Brasel
“The Kinmundy Express”:
May 28, 1953 - "Harry BRASEL left last Tuesday for San Diego,
Calif. where he was inducted into the U.S. Navy."
Aug. 20, 1953 - "Harry BRASEL of the U.S.N. will arrive this week
from San Diego to spend a leave with his parents."
May 13, 1954 - "Shriver School (from last week): Harry BRASEL
C.T.S.N. of the U.S. Navy has returned to the west coast after a weeks visit
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL and other relatives and friends.
He will be located on Tokyo Base."
Apr. 14, 1955 - "Reunion in Japan: Harry BRASEL and Xon HANNA,
both serving in the U.S. Navy recently spent a weekend together in Yokosuka,
Japan. They report they are stationed only about 100 miles apart but it is
seldom they get leave at the same time."
June 21, 1956 – “Harry BRASEL, CT2, arrived home
Monday for a 30 day leave after spending the past 2 years in Japan.”
July 12, 1956 – “CT 2 Harry BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Burdette BRASEL, and Miss Alice FRIMEL, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Al FRIMEL, of
Odin, were united in marriage at the Baptist Parsonage in Centralia, July 8 at 3
p.m., Rev. Forrest
WEEMS performed the ceremony. The attendants were Mr. and Mrs. Bud DYER of Odin. CT 2
BRASEL was a graduate of the K.C.H.S. in 1950, and Mrs. BRASEL from the Odin H.S.
in 1952. Ct/2 BRASEL will return to his duties July 15. Mrs. BRASEL will continue to
work as bookkeeper at Montgomery Ward in Centralia.”
July 19, 1956 - "Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL
were Mr. and Mrs. Les McCLAINE and daughters, of Nokomis, Mrs. Betty BRASEL, and
sons of Farina, and Ct/2 and Mrs. Harry BRASEL. Harry left Sunday
afternoon for New York City, N.Y. to report for duty."
Sept. 20, 1956 – “CT 2 Harry BRASEL spent the past week
with Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL and other relatives. He left Monday evening
to report back for duty at Chettenham, Md. He was accompanied by his wife.”
Dec. 20, 1956 - "Ct/2 and Mrs. Harry BRASEL of Washington, D.C. arrived
Saturday to spend his holiday leave with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Al FRIMEL
of Odin and Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL."
May 23, 1957 - "Mr. and Mrs. Harry BRASEL, Jr., of Washington, D.C.
arrived Saturday night after receiving his release from the Navy."
John J. Brasel
"The
Marion County Express” - Kinmundy, Ill.
June 6, 1918 - "John BRASEL, Walter MILLER, J.O.
COX, Walter BAYLIS, Ener ZIMMER, Eli ROBB of Camp Taylor spent Sunday at home
with their families before leaving for Camp Sherman, Ohio."
July 4, 1918;
Camp Sherman,
Chillicothe, Ohio; June 23
Dear Folks at Home,
I
received your letter Saturday night at 9 o’clock. Just got back from a hike at
that time , although was not tired as we rode in trucks. The distance was 18
miles east of Chillicothe out in some of the worst hills I ever saw. The place
we were camped at was at an old Artillery Range. We had 2 big guns while out
there. Nothing killed but snakes and rattlers at that. A fellow killed one
with 11 rattles. I killed one with 6 rattles, a black diamond too.
I have
been promoted to a signalman and am going to school all the time. We have all
kinds of signals, hand flags, flash light, wigwag, telegraph, telephone,
wireless and a ton more and I am trying to learn all of them. We also had
two aeroplanes with us. They were up all day, going back and forth over us and
signaling to us and we would answer by wireless.
Say,
did you ever see a wireless station? Well I have put them up. The kind we use
can be put up in ten minutes and we sure can hear that station in New York and
Arlington, I think it is very plain. I have not tried the wireless yet, don’t
know the code well enough to receive.
Well,
how are you folks at home? I am all right. I do not have to drill near as hard
as I did. Only get one hour of Infantry drill each day now and less than that
some days.
I am
going to try for a pass to come home about the Fourth, but am afraid I will not
get it. One can never tell what he will get in the Army. The P.B.I. (Poor
Bloody Infantry) is getting it good and hard these days and all of us for that
matter. We don’t get any more holidays except Sunday and then we are sometimes
on a hike. We began to wear gas masks last Monday one hour each day. Talk
about torture, I do not believe there could be any worse. It does not make any
difference what we are doing if a soldier in Camp Sherman – we must wear our gas
mask one hour each day. It looks funny to see cooks and kitchen police wearing
their masks at work but let me tell you it don’t feel funny. The officers wear
them just the same as we privates.
Am at
the Y – must close – don’t look for me as it is hard to get off.
P.S.
Say Ma. I don’t suppose you thought when you was a girl in Ohio that your son
would go over the same ground as a soldier. But one never can tell. I never
thought of it before myself until it really happened, but mother, you can be
assured that I will not dishonor the old stomping grounds of your girlhood.
Well Dad, how are you? I hope all right. Don’t worry about me. Just think of
the thousands of other fathers that have two, three, and four boys in the
service. And I think if a fellow is of the right kind of stuff he will learn
something –how to appreciate a home for Camp is a long way from home.
There
are thousands of boys at this minute wishing for home. But we have a duty to
perform and we are going to do it, with all the man we have in us.
John J. BRASEL; Co. I 335 Infantry
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
John BRASEL
(V-144) Neal Brasel
“The Kinmundy Express”:
July 14, 1955 – “RMSM Neil BRASEL, who has been
stationed in Bainbridge, Md., arrived home Saturday for a 10 day leave before
reporting to USS Hyman in New Port, R.I., where he will attend radio school.”
Dec. 15, 1955 – “GARRETT-BRASEL Wed: Miss Wanda GARRETT, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and Neil BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL were
united in marriage, Wed., Dec. 7 at the home of Rev. J.C. Gray in Corinth,
Miss. Rev. Gray performed the ceremony. The couple are both graduates of
Kinmundy-Alma High School. Mr. BRASEL is at present in the U.S. Navy. Mrs.
BRASEL will remain in Kinmundy at the home of her parents for a while.”
Dec. 22, 1955 – “Neil BRASEL, R.M. left Saturday for
his ship in Newport, R.I. after spending a 30 day furlough leave here with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL and wife, Wanda.”
Apr 26, 1956 – “The Navy Department announced the
promotion on Apr. 16 of N.R. BRASEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.G. BRASEL of
Kinmundy, to radioman, third class, USN, while serving aboard the destroyer USS
Hyman with the Atlantic Fleet. The promotion followed successful
completion of a Navy-wide petty officer examination conducted in February.”
Oct. 11, 1956 – “RM3 and Mrs. Neil BRASEL of Newport, R.I.
came last Wednesday for a few days leave and visited their parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Bert GARRETT and Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL, Neil returned aboard ship
Tuesday, while Mrs. BRASEL remained here.”
Dec. 12, 1957 - "RM/2 and Mrs. Neil BRASEL and son left Wednesday for
Corpus Christi, Texas, where Neil will be stationed at a navy base."
Sept. 11, 1958 – “R2c and Mrs. Neil BRASEL and sons, of
Corpus Christi,
Texas came Saturday to spend their vacation with their parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Burdette BRASEL and Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT.”
Feb. 11, 1960 - "Mr. and Mrs. Neal BRASEL and sons, of Effingham, were
Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT. Afternoon visitors were
Mr. and Mrs. Floyd GARRETT and sons and Mr. Jack GARRETT."
June 8, 1961 - "Mr. and Mrs. Neal BRASEL and family of South Roxana, and
Mr. and Mrs. Harry BRASEL and children, of Effingham, visited their parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL and Betty Jo Sunday afternoon."
Apr. 26, 1962 - "Mr. and Mrs. Neal BRASEL and children, of S. Roxana,
spent Saturday night and Sunday with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL
and daughter and Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT."
Feb. 28, 1963 - "Mr. and Mrs. Neal BRASEL and children of Miami, Fla.,
left Tuesday of last week to return to their home after a 2 weeks vacation here
with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette BRASEL and Betty Jo, and Mr. and Mrs.
Bert GARRETT.
June 20, 1968 – “EM-1 and Mrs. Neil BRASEL and family,
Miami,
Fla.,
returned Miss Betty Brasel, who had been visiting with them for a week. They
arrived here Friday night. Neil is a member of the Coast Guard and is enroute
to Guam, and will leave his family here for some time. Neil had his car, a 1966 Chevelle, parked in the yard of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette Brasel and on
Saturday night, it was stolen. After reporting it to the sheriff, it was
reported found by the state police in the rest area south of Alma. The back
seat had been slashed, the hub caps strewn about the area, and a part of the
engine missing. An attaché case containing sealed orders as well as traveling
instructions, had been broken into but none of the papers were missing. Neil
will leave this week end for
San Francisco
and then to Guam.”
June 27, 1968 - "RD/1 Neal R. BRASEL left Monday by plane for San
Francisco, Calif., where he will board another plane for Guam where he will be
stationed. His family plan to join him later."
Dec. 19, 1968 - "RM/1 Neal BRASEL left Friday for Guam after
spending a 30 day leave here with his family and other relatives."
March 20, 1969 - "Neal BRASEL in Accident: RM/1 Neal BRASEL is a
patient in St. Mary's Hospital, Centralia, after suffering injuries in an
automobile accident on Friday afternoon. Mrs. BRASEL nor Mrs. Woodrow
WILKINSON, driver of the other car were not injured although both were shaken up
and received some bruises. The accident happened last Friday afternoon at
the intersection of Rt. 37 and 4th Street. Neal was taken to the hospital
by Linton Ambulance . He suffers with a fracture of the Tibia and a
cracked pelvis. NEAL is stationed in Guam with the Coast Guard and has
been home on leave due to the death of his father. He and his family were
planning to leave soon for Guam. He will be hospitalized for about 3
weeks."
March 27, 1969 - "RM/1 Neal BRASEL was transferred from St.
Mary's Hospital, Centralia, to the Scott Field Hospital near Belleville, on
Thursday."
Apr. 3, 1969 - "Neal BRASEL returned home last week from the
hospital at Scott Field, Belleville."
(V-411) Rich Brasel
"The Kinmundy Express" -
Oct. 4, 2001 – “BRASEL to Command Test Pilot School: Cmdr. Richard BRASEL
assumed command of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, Patuxent River Naval Air
Station, Maryland, Aug. 30th. The U.S. Naval Test Pilot School
trains Navy, Marine Corps and Army pilots to conduct experimental flight tests
on military aircraft and weapons systems. BRASEL is the son of Neal and Wanda
BRASEL of Salem, and grandson of the late Ruby GARRETT of Kinmundy. BRASEL and
his family reside in Leonardtown, Md.”
Monte Bray
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 23, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In Training
Camps - Monte BRAY
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Monte BRAY
March 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Monte BRAY
Richard William Breiman
Served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War from 1952
to 1956.
Earl J. Brewer
"The Kinmundy Express":
May 27, 1948 - "Sgt. BREWER Funeral Sunday
Morning"; "The casketed remains of Sgt. Earl J. BREWER will arrive in Kinmundy
Friday morning on C & E.I. Train No. 123 at 7:31. They will be met by
members of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion and escorted to the home of
the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank BREWER, residing six miles west of Alma.
Funeral services will be held Sunday morning at 10:30 from the Given's Chapel
Church, Rev. Clifton, officiating. Interment will be made in East Lawn
Cemetery, Salem, under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.
Sgt. BREWER entered the army Nov. 1, 1942 and was killed in action in Frances
July 7, 1944. The body was interred in the Blosville temporary cemetery in
France. Besides his parents, he is survived by four brothers, Pvt. Frank
Jr., in Korea, Gene, John, and Roy at home, and seven sisters, Mrs. Roy BROWN
and Mrs. George RAY, Salem, Mrs. Harry KIRGAN, Richview, and Dorothy, Alice,
Shirley, and Mary Jane at home."
(V-235b) Cecil A. Brim
"The Kinmundy Express":
Feb. 13, 1941 - "Boys Leave for Camp: John SHAFFER,
Harold SLANE, and Cecil BRIM were among the 32 boys who left Tuesday night for
the induction station of Chicago. These boys were all volunteers in the
Selective Service. Just where they will be sent from Chicago, providing
they pass the final examination, remains to be seen, although it is supposed the
most of them will go to Camp Grant near Rockford."
Nov. 6, 1941 - "Pvt. Cecil A. BRIM, who is stationed
in Fort Lewis, Wash., was operated for appendicitis in the Station Hospital last
week. He is reported to be getting along in good shape."
Jan. 6, 1944
- "Here’s a V-Mail from PFC Cecil BRIM, who is
now in Italy. It sure gives us great pleasure in knowing that this paper is
getting to the boys in these remote places. His letter was written Dec. 20th.
Here is what he says: I have received the Kinmundy Express in England, Africa,
Sicily, and now in Italy, and it is the only way that I learn the news that is
happening around home. I received 3 of them today and read the letters from the
boys and girls in the service and I sure like to read things like that. The
Zatso is what interests me the most, why don’t you tell the g.m. to do her own
housework and then you go join the army before she declares war on you. Give my
regards to all the folks back at Kinmundy. I still remember them for I was one
of the first three to leave there and have never been back."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “PFC Cecil BRIM arrived here Oct. 9th to spend some time with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. James BRIM and family. He was discharged from Camp McCoy, Wis., the day previous. Cecil
entered the service Feb. 11, 1941, and shipped overseas Aug. 18, 1942, landing
in England. From there he went to Africa, then to Sicily, Italy, France and
Austria. He landed back to the states at New York, on Sept. 30th. He wears the
Good Conduct Medal, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon and the European Theater of
Operations Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the campaigns of Africa, Sicily,
Naples and Rome-Arno. Cecil
hasn’t said just what he intends to do now except get caught up on his loafing
and sleeping.”
Dec. 30, 1954 - "Sgt. Cecil BRIM of Colorado, Mrs.
Eugene SCHAFFER of Waukegan, Sgt. and Mrs. Robert STONECIPHER and son, of
Louisiana, were Christmas dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Jim BRIM.
Afternoon guests were Mr. and Mrs. Charles BRIM of Edwardsville, Mr. and Mrs.
Jimmie HALL and sons, Jim and Joe of Edgewood, Mr. and Mrs. Everett NASH of
Arizona and Mr. and Mrs. Ed HALL and family. Sgt. BRIM is enroute to Japan
with the U.S. Air Force."
June 21, 1956 – “Army Sgt. Cecil A. BRIM, son of Mr.
and Mrs. James A. BRIM, Kinmundy, recently was graduated from the
Non-Commissioned
Officer Academy at Fort Riley, Kansas. Sergeant BRIM completed the
academy's six-week basic course in leadership of units, map reading and other
military subjects. BRIM, a section leader in the 1st
Infantry Division’s 1st Quartermaster Co., entered the Army in 1941.
Sgt. BRIM’s wife, Jeanne, lives in Junction City, Kan.”
Nov. 12, 1959 - "Sgt. Cecil BRIM and family of
Louisiana and Mr. and Mrs. Bill HERRICK are visitors in the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Jim BRIM."
June 2, 1960 - "Sgt. and Mrs. Cecil BRIM of Fort Hood,
Texas, came Monday to spend several days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jim
BRIM. After their visit here, they will soon leave for Germany where he
will be stationed."
June 2, 1960 - "Sgt. and Mrs. Cecil BRIM of Fort
Hood, Texas, came Monday to spend several days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Jim BRIM. After their visit here they will soon leave for Germany where he
will be stationed."
Dec. 21, 1961 - "Christmas Greetings on Record: Mr. and
Mrs. Jim BRIM of our city were very elated Sunday afternoon to hear the voice of
their son, Sgt. Cecil BRIM, on record from Radio station WJBD. Sgt. BRIM
is in West Germany and had made this record for his Christmas Greetings to his
parents. He also stated that he would be with them next Christmas."
May 31, 1962 - “Army Specialist 5 Cecil A. BRIM, son of
Mr. and Mrs. James H. Brim, Kinmundy, recently participated in Grand Salem I, a
5 day Central Army Group exercise in Germany. Grand Slam I involved
headquarter units from the German, French and U.S. Armed Forces which are
assigned to CENTAG, and was designed to test operational plans and procedures of
these forces. CENTAG is a major element of NATO in Europe. Specialist Brim, a light-truck
driver in the 29th Transportation Battalion’s 547th Co.
in Boblingen, Germany, entered the army in 1941 and arrived overseas on this
tour of duty in July 1960. His wife, Jenne, is with him in Germany.”
June 13, 1963 - "Participates in Annual Training Test";
"Army Specialist Five Cecil A. BRIM, formerly of Kinmundy, recently participated
in the 109th Transportation Company's Annual Training Test (ATT) in Germany.
The ATT is the toughest and most complete assessment of a unit's combat
readiness and provides the most grueling, exacting and realistic conditions
possible in peacetime. Specialist BRIM, a heavy-truck driver in the
company in Germany, entered the Army in February 1941. He arrived overseas
on this tour of duty in July 1960. BRIM is a 1932 graduate of Kinmundy
High School. His wife, Jeanie, is with him in Germany."
(V-236b) Charles Brim
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Oct. 25, 1945 – “ PFC Charles BRIM, son of Mr. and Mrs. James BRIM, arrived home
Oct. 16th after receiving his discharge from the army at Camp Grant the day previous. Charles
entered the service Jan. 30, 1943, and shipped overseas Dec. 25, 1943, landing
in Scotland. From there he went to France then to Belgium,
Holland, and Germany. He
started back to the states Sept. 25, landing at New Port News Oct. 3rd. Charles
was with the 573rd Signal Warning Battalion. He wears the Good Conduct Medal,
the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles
of Northern France, Rhineland and Central Germany, and the Belgium Fourragere.
Charles says he doesn’t exactly know what he will do in the future, but for the
present, he will just loaf.”
Garland Brimberry
“The Kinmundy Express” – June 10, 1954 – “Pfc. Garland R. BRIMBERRY, whose wife,
Edna, and parents, live east of Kinmundy, recently arrived in
Korea
for duty with the 25th Infantry Division. Rushed to Korea
during the early days of conflict, the "Tropic Lightening" division took part in
some of the most bitter fighting on the peninsula. It is now
undergoing intensive post-truce training. Private First Class
BRIMBERRY, a medical aidman, entered the Army in March 1953 and completed basic
training at Camp Stewart, Ga.”
(V-36) Joseph Brimberry (1841-1927) , son of John and Margaret
Higgins Brimberry
(V-237b) Joe A. Brimberry
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Oct. 12, 1944 - "Joe BRIMBERRY left Monday night for
his camp in Texas after a 10 day furlough here with his wife and children and
parents."
April 25, 1945 – “PFC Joe A. BRIMBERRY Awarded Combat Decoration for Heroic
Fighting in Italy: With the Fifth Army Italy - PFC Joe A. BRIMBERRY, husband of
Mrs. Minnie A. BRIMBERRY, Kinmundy, has been cited by the 88th Mountain Regiment
of the 10th “Mountaineer” Division and awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge for
actual participation in combat against the enemy of the Fifth Army front in
Italy. Standards for the badge are high. The decoration is award to the
infantry soldier who has proved his fighting ability in combat. The handsome
badge consists of silver rifle set against a background of infantry blue,
enclosed in a silver wreath.”
Sept. 6, 1945 – “Pvt.
Joe A. BRIMBERRY Arrives Home: Pvt. Joe A. BRIMBERRY arrived here Sunday morning to spend a 30
day furlough with his wife and children and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur
BRIMBERRY. Joe entered the Army May 15, 1944, landing at Naples,
Italy on Dec. 23. He remained in Italy
during his sojourn abroad. He started homeward Aug. 18, and landed in New York
Aug. 29. Pvt. BRIMBERRY wears the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the
Mediterranean Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the
Battles of the Appinines and Po Valley. After his furlough has expired, he will
be sent to Camp Polk, La. Pvt. and Mrs.
BRIMBERRY have 2 children, Mary 5, and Everett, 4.”
Sept. 13, 1945 – “Pvt. Joe A. BRIMBERRY, who arrived home from Italy Sept. 2, to
spend a 30 day furlough with his family.”
Keith Brimberry
“The Kinmundy Express” -
Dec. 21, 1995 – “Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Keith D.
BRIMBERRY, son of David W. and Linda L. BRIMBERRY of 206 S. Washington St.,
Kinmundy, IL, recently received a Letter of Commendation while assigned aboard
the submarine USS Grayling, homeported in New London, Conn. BRIMBERRY was
recognized for his superior performance of duty. Displaying remarkable
dedication and initiative, BRIMBERRY consistently performed his demanding duties
in an exemplary and highly professional manner. BRIMBERRY is an essential part
of today’s naval forces as they shift focus away from long-distance war at sea
to handling the challenges of regional conflicts affecting U.S. interests.
Whether helping provide humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief or
projecting power ashore and providing forward presence. Sailors like BRIMBERRY
are making a difference as they work assigned to ships, squadrons or shore
commands around the world. BRIMBERRY is not only improving his knowledge and
skill, but is serving as part of the most highly technical naval force in
history. The 1992 graduate of South Central High School of Farina, IL, joined
the Navy in Oct. 1992.”
Apr. 25, 1996 – “Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class, Keith D.
BRIMBERRY, son of David W. and Linda L. BRIMBERRY, son of David W. and Linda L.
BRIMBERRY of 206 S. Washington St., Kinmundy, IL, recently received the Navy
Good Conduct Medal. The Good Conduct Medal recognizes the service member’s
honest and faithful service during a 3-year period. To earn it, BRIMBERRY
achieved and maintained a satisfactory level of performance and an unblemished
conduct record for the entire period. BRIMBERRY is currently assigned aboard
the submarine USS Grayling, homeported in New London, Conn. The 1992 graduate
of South Central Community High School of Farina, IL, joined the Navy in October
1992.”
Sept. 12, 1996 – “RMZ(SS) Keith D. BRIMBERRY of Kinmundy, IL, has
recently been awarded the Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Petty Officer
BRIMBERRY has been in the Navy for 4 years and is stationed onboard the USS
Grayline (SSN6A6) a Nuclear-Powered Fast Attack Submarine homeported out of
Groton, CT. The ship is currently on a 6 month Mediterranean Deployment. Petty
Officer BRIMBERRY has been trained as a Satellite Communications expert and
Electronics Technician. In the spring of ’97 Petty Officer BRIMBERRY will
transfer to Kings Bay, GA for 10 months of training prior to transfer to one of
the Navy’s new Ballistic Missile Submarines there in GA. Keith is the son of
David and Linda BRIMBERRY of Kinmundy and the grandson of Minnie BRIMBERRY of
Kinmundy. Keith is a 1992 graduate of South Central High School in Farina, IL.
Keith, his wife, Julie, and a daughter, Theresa, currently live in Norwich, CT.”
(V-111) Leroy Brimberry
"The Kinmundy Express" - Oct. 5, 1939
- "Leroy BRIMBERRY and Oggie BRANSON of the CCC Camp at Charleston spent the
weekend in the Brimberry home."
Mark Brimberry
“The Kinmundy Express” - March 31, 1994 -
“Marine Pvt. Mark A. BRIMBERRY of 107 Goodwin St., Kinmundy, IL, recently
completed recruit training. During the training cycle at Marine Corps Recruit
Depot, San Diego, recruits are taught the basics of battlefield survival,
introduced to typical military daily routine, and personal and professional
standards. All recruits participate in an active physical conditioning program
and gain proficiency in a variety of military skills including first aid, rifle
marksmanship and close-order drill. Teamwork and self-discipline are emphasized
throughout the cycle. Although the Marine Corps is scaling back, its investment
in high-quality recruits continues. The Marine Corps has more than 38,000 job
openings this year. He is a 1993 graduate of South Central High School in
Farina, IL.”
(V-37)
Marion
Earl "Buddy" Brimberry on main street in Kinmundy
- 1943 & with Japanese flag (V-38)
Marion Earl "Buddy" Brimberry
"The Kinmundy Express":
Feb. 18, 1943 - "Pvt. Earl BRIMBERRY has returned to
Calif. after a 10 leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Art BRIMBERRY."
Aug. 19, 1943 - "PFC Earl BRIMBERRY of California
arrived here yesterday to spend his furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Arthur BRIMBERRY."
Sept. 30, 1943 - "And here is one from Earl BRIMBERRY, who
is stationed in California, and from the tone of his letter, we would say that
he is about to embark upon a globe trotting career. He says: 'I should
take time out to thank you for your paper. I can assure you I enjoy it
very much now and even more when I get to where I am going. I'm writing
you from here because they tell us we can't send any letters out when we get to
port, which will be a few more days, probably before you receive this letter.
I can't say where I am going because I don't know. But I will say one
thing and that is 'hello' to all my friends and especially the ones in the South
Pacific. Also to the boys at home. Sometimes I wish I were with them
but we can't all be, so what. I can't say I love the army although I'm not
discontented and I like my work here and my outfit too. We've been one of the
Artillery's guinea pigs for quite awhile and have strained out quite a few
things. So I think we'll be somewhat successful in whatever we try.
So I'll say thanks again for the paper and I'll be seeing you again.
You'll get my change of address one of these days and until then it is the
same."
Feb. 17, 1944 - "Here's a nice V-Mail letter from
Pvt. Earl BRIMBERRY who is wandering around in New Guinea. He says: '
Today I received my first 2 copies of your paper since I have been overseas.
It gave me the same feeling as I had the night we sailed into harbor after so
many days in a sardine can. I read Tuffy's letter and I wholly agree with
him on the New Guinea issue. I can't say much about what we're doing, but
I guess you know more about that than I do, as your paper was the first I've
seen for two months. Thanks a million and keep 'em coming.'"
Apr. 20, 1944 - "Here's one from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY, who
is stationed in Australia and sends us some Aussie money to prove it. He
says: "today was payday and I was thinking you might like to have something from
down under, so here is a Aussie 10 shilling or one half pound note, worth about
a dollar sixty. Their currency system is English and very easy to
understand once you get on to it. I get my papers in bunches and at least
two months old, but still they are welcome. I would appreciate it if you
know for sure where the boys are, to give their address to my sister and I'll
look them up, when I get the chance, as air transportation is very fast here.
These Islands are not very romantic or pleasant. I sometimes wonder if
their Chamber of Commerce were in their right minds when they put out all that
stuff. I could name a million things that are unpleasant, but the main one
is the Jap and as long as we exterminate him, I won't mind the rest. The
Aussies are wonderful fighters, but are very ungrateful for the help we have
given them. That's natural though I guess. Well, give my regards to
all the boys and girls. And to Guin and Millie. I hope none of them
has to go thru this. Once again, thanks a million for your trouble and I
hope to be back before too long to do it in person."
May 25, 1944 - "Here's one from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY,
who is stationed in New Guinea. He says: ' Just a few lines to say 'hello'
and to inform you of a change in my APO. It seems the Army has more
post offices than anything else. I trust you all are in the pink of health.
I guess I have been lucky so far. Everything here is as usual and you can
read as much as I could write, if I could write it. I have been getting
the paper in bunches and its quite awhile between bunches too, but they are still
news to me or at least most of it. We are camped on a beautiful hill which
the Aussies fought bitterly for. Its not uncommon to find a dead Jap or
two the boys forgot. You'll have to pardon the writing as we write on most
anything we can find. Well the rain has started again so I'll close and
try to keep myself half dry.'"
Sept. 7, 1944 -
"Here’s one from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY, who is
in the Southwest Pacific Theater and from the tone of his letter, is seeing
plenty of action. He says: We have been in combat for about 2 months now and
haven’t had much time to do much of anything. This was our first time to meet
the Japs and it was very exciting at times and not very funny at others. I am a
radio operator and the only way we could get communications to our forward
observers was by putting a radio in the top of a tree which was about 150 feet
high and man it 24 hours. At night when the wind blew, it swayed as if it was on
a pair of sky hooks. We could see far out into the jungle and at night the
tracers would fly like big lightning bugs. In the front lines it is not quite so
pleasant. The main thing is that the nights are too dark and too long. Of
course, the Japs like to do their damage at those times too, when you can’t see
an inch in front of you eyes. Well, if you have ever seen a million black cats
on a dark night you will have some idea as to what I mean, and you get scared
too, but everyone is scared so nobody is ashamed of it, but scared or not, we
have killed plenty of Japs and now they have quit and are headed into the hills
either to starve or hook in with the natives. The natives are funny here. They
will work for us awhile then go across and work for the Japs, but they are
valuable to lead patrols, carry ammo and wounded out of the jungle. They have
saved a lot of fellows lives. I had the good fortune of spending a few hours
with John McCULLEY and Harold JONES before I came up here and just missed Floyd
EAGAN by the skin of my teeth. We chewed the fat for quite a spell. I haven’t
received the paper for a long time now, but I guess I’ll get a whole sack full
some of these days when things like that get a chance to come up. I was very
sorry to hear of Junior HINKLEY’s death I just missed seeing him by a few days
before they left. Matter of fact, we were supposed to go on the same task force,
but was taken off at the last minute for reasons I can’t discuss. I hope
everyone at home are swell. I can assure you that I am in the pink a far as
health is concerned and I hope to be home by next Christmas. These Japs are not
human though, and our most severe battles are yet to come. It is going to be
very costly, but we can do it. I saw Bob HOPE, Frances LANGFORD, Jerry CALONA,
and a couple more yesterday after sitting in the sun for 6 hours. Their plane
was late. So long."
March 15, 1945: Here's one from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY,
who is now in the Philippines. The letter was dated 12 February and says:
"We're in the wonderful Philippines, but I don't see anything so grand about it,
especially when the Japs start throwing them back at us. This is a very
advanced country though and the people are very intelligent. Almost
everyone speaks English, the American brand too. They have good highways
and all that. We have seen some very rough times here so far, but I think
now we just about have the Japs under control, at least I hope so. Hope
you're all in good health and give my regards to everyone."
May
31, 1945 – “Here’s a short letter from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY, dated 11 May in the
Philippines. He says: Just a line or two to say hello and to let you know of
the change of APO. I’ve had quite a few new ones lately, but now I think we’re
settled for quite awhile at least and I hope so. Our job here in the
Philippines is just about done and I hope to be home this year with Germany done
for. I got down to Manila while we were in those parts, but was so badly torn
up you could not see it’s real beauty. Although it was a very beautiful city at
one time and I can’t blame the Filipinos and bragging about it so much. I saw
JONES the other day for a few moments. What a surprise. Haven’t seen a paper
for many a moon, but I will some day. Say hello to everyone and hold the fort
down.”
Jan. 31, 1946 –“Sgt. Earl BRIMBERRY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur BRIMBERRY,
received his discharge at Jefferson Barracks, Jan. 21, and arrived home the same
day. Sgt. BRIMBERRY entered the service Dec. 2, 1942, and shipped overseas Oct. 27, landing in
Australia. From there he went to Good Nough
Island, then to New Guinea, Philippines, Okinaw and then to Japan. He started
home from Japan on Nov. 15, landing at Tacoma, Wash., Dec. 27. He was held
there for 10 days awaiting transportation and after arriving at Jefferson
Barracks, spent another 10 days in the hospital with malaria. Sgt. BRIMBERRY
wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation
Ribbon with 2 stars representing the campaigns of the Southern Philippines and
Okinawa, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars representing the campaigns
of Southern New Guinea, British New Guinea and Luzon. After resting a bit, Earl
intends to enter a trade school in St. Louis.”
June 16, 1949 – “Sgt. Marion E. BRIMBERRY Now on Isle
of Guam: Sergeant Marion E. BRIMBERRY is now serving with the United States Air
Force on
Guam. Assigned to the 4th
Rescue Squadron at North Guam Air Force Base, as a radio operator, Sergeant
BRIMBERRY participates in search and rescue missions performed by the squadron.
Sergeant BRIMBERRY, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur BRIMBERRY of Kinmundy,
graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in 1941. He entered the service in 1942, and
served in
Australia, New Guinea, the Philippines, and Okinawa.”
Sept. 21, 1950 – “Staff Sergeant Marion E. BRIMBERRY
graduated this week from the Air Force Communications School at Scott Air Force
Base, IL, it was announced by the base commander, Brigadier General John F.
McBlain. Graduating from a course in airborne communications, S. Sgt.
BRIMBERRY will serve in a position in the maintenance of the Air Force's vast
network of radio
hookups. S.Sgt. BRIMBERRY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur BRIMBERRY, Kinmundy,
served in the Asiatic Pacific Theater of Operations during and following WWII.
He was awarded 4 bronze stars for his theater ribbon, one Arrowhead, two stars
for the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, a Presidential Unit Citation and other
decorations. His nephew, Cpl. Bennie GRAY, is also a student at Scott Field Air
Force Base.”
Dec. 28, 1950 – “S. Sgt. Marion E. BRIMBERRY of
Eglin Field,
Fla. is spending the holidays here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Art BRIMBERRY.”
Aug. 21, 1958 - "M/Sgt. and Mrs. Marion E. BRIMBERRY and
daughter, Kathy Jane, of Scott Air Force Base, spent from Friday until Monday
evening in Alma with his mother, Mrs. Daisy BRIMBERRY and other relatives.
Marion will leave in September for French Morocco for a year's service there."
July 21, 1960 - "Mrs. Leota HARRIS has returned home from Myrtle
Beach, S.C. where she had been visiting her daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Earl
BRIMBERRY and Kathy. They brought her home last Saturday. Sergeant
BRIMBERRY returned Monday to Shaw Air Force Base in S.C. His wife and
daughter will remain here for a two weeks visit."
Dec. 28, 1961 - "Mr. and Mrs. Earl BRIMBERRY and Kathy arrived
Wednesday night from Shaw Air Force Base in S.C., to visit Mrs. Leota HARRIS and
other relatives."
May 17, 1962 - "Mr. and Mrs. Bud BRIMBERRY and daughter, Kathy,
have moved here from Shaw Air Force Base, N.C. He will go overseas soon
and she will live in the property of Mrs. SCOWDEN in the south part of town."
June 13, 1963 - "Mrs. Ruth BRIMBERRY and daughter, Kathy, will
leave the 14th for St. Louis and then they will fly to Philadelphia and then go
to McGuire Air Base where they will take a jet plane for England to join her
husband, Earl, a SM/sg in the air force. They expect to be gone two
years."
Oct. 27, 1966 - "Mrs. Leota HARRIS has returned to her home here.
She was accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Earl BRIMBERRY and Kathy, who will remain
here while he is in the service in Germany for a year."
Aug. 31, 1967 - "Mrs. Ruth BRIMBERRY and daughter, Kathy, have
joined her hsuband at Clarck Air Force Base in the Philippines."
Nov. 23, 1967 – “Chief Master Sergeant Marion E.
BRIMBERRY, son of Mrs. Daisy R. Brimberry of Alma, is a member of the 5th
Tactical Control Group at
Clark
AB that has received the coveted U.S. Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.
Sergeant Brimberry, a communications superintendent will wear a distinctive
ribbon decoration to identify his affiliation with the Pacific Air Forces
organization. His group was cited for its execution of 17 major deployments and
six operations in support of combat exercises, and for improvement of tactical
air control systems used throughout the Air Force. The 5th was also
recognized for providing either technical or manning assistance at almost every
major location in
Southeast Asia.
Lieut. Gen. Benjamin O Davis, Jr. commander of the 13th Air Force, in present
the award said, 'The innovations you men have made the communications in
Southeast Asia have undoubtedly contributed to the success of military operations
there.' The sergeant served in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II and
participated in the Dominican Republic Crisis. He is a graduate of Kinmundy
High School. Sergeant Brimberry’s wife, Lillian, is the daughter of Mrs. Leota
Harris of Alma.”
Feb. 1, 1968 - "Recent visitors with Mrs. Leota HARRIS were
Senior Master Marion Earl BRIMBERRY of Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines."
Nov. 28, 1968 - "Mr. and Mrs. Earl BRIMBERRY and daughter, Kathy,
returned after more than a year in the Philippines. They are visiting her
mother, Mrs. Leota HARRIS."
Dec. 18, 1969 - "Mr. and Mrs. Jerry MULVANEY was accompanied by
Mrs. Ruth BRIMBERRY Sunday afternoon to Scott Air Force base where Ruth will
enter the hospital. Her husband, Chief Sr. Master Sgt. Marion BRIMBERRY of
the Air Forces is spending a week in Japan."
(V-99) Walter Brimberry
"The Kinmundy Express":
June 1, 1944 - "Accepted for Army and Navy: The following men
have been accepted for service in the armed forces, Dale BRASEL, Salem; Wm.
BROOM, Raymond DOUDERA and Harold JONES, Alma; Frederick MISELBROOK, Ray
BOUGHERS, Jason GOODWIN, Francis KRUTSINGER, and Walter BRIMBERRY, of Kinmundy."
Apr. 17, 1947 - "Miletus: We are rejoicing to know that so many
of our boys are returning from overseas: Lavern YATES arrived home March 24th,
Francis KRUTSINGER, April 5th; Charles BLOMBERG, last week, all from Honshu
Honshu Island, Japan. Douglas GOODWIN arrived home April 7th from
Philippines and Junior BUTTS and Walter BRIMBERRY, April 14 from Hawaii."
Apr. 24, 1947 - "PFC Junior BUTTS and PFC Walter BRIMBERRY Home:
PFC Junior O. BUTTS was inducted in the U.S. Army Air Force April 25 at Fort
Sheridan, and was sent from there to Amorilla, Texas and received his training
there. July 1st was shipped to Lowry Field, Denver, Colo., and entered
Aeroplane Mechanic School After graduating from school was sent to
Hamilton Field, Calif., and shipped overseas to Hawaiian Islands and arrived
home on April 14, is spending terminal leave with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Orion BUTTS. He will receive his discharge May 2. PFC
Walter BRIMBERRY is also home on terminal leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Roley BRIMBERRY. These two boys entered the service on the same day,
trained together, went to the same school, was shipped overseas and arrived home
the same day."
Jack Brinkley
Charles M. Broom
"The Kinmundy Express":
Nov. 11, 1943 - "Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr., and
daughter Elizabeth, were in Baltimore, Md. last week visiting their son and
brother, Lt. Charles BROOM."
June 29, 1944 - "Lt. C.M. BROOM accompanied by his
wife and son returned Saturday to Baltimore, Md. after spending an 8 day leave
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM and family, in Alma."
May 24, 1945 - "Lt. and Mrs. C.M. BROOM announce the
arrival of Linda Louise, May 15th, at Baltimore, Md. Lt. BROOM, U.S.N.R.
is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. J.R. BROOM, Alma."
Aug. 23, 1945 – “With the 12th Air Force in Italy, Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr.,
Decatur, Ill., son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr. of Alma, Ill., is now on
duty as Executive Officer with the 332nd Air Service Group a unit of the Twelfth
Air Force, servicing Air Corps personnel in the vicinity of Florence, Italy.
Colonel BROOM has gained an enviable reputation with the 12th Air Force
servicing allied war planes throughout the Mediterranean campaign, and servicing
Air Corps personnel in the Florence area. During his 27 months overseas, he has
been awarded 5 bronze stars for services rendered in Naples Foggia, Rome-Arne,
Southern France, North Appenines
and German Campaigns. He also wears the American Theater Ribbon. He is a
graduate of the University of Ill. and was a member of the
following fraternities: The Pharnax, Alpha Tau Sigma, and Pershing Rifles,
graduating with the class of 1932. Col. BROOM’s wife, Mrs. Wilma H. BROOM, and
2 children, John A. BROOM, III, and Robert Dale BROOM, are now residing in
Decatur, Ill. Col. BROOM was
commissioned a 2nd Lieut. in the Infantry Reserves, 8 Sept. 1932, and entered
active duty with the Air Corps on 10 Nov. 1940, being promoted to Lt. Colonel on
17 Nov. 1944. Prior to his military service, he was associated with the
Fruehauf Trailer Co., Detroit, Mich., in the sales dept.
Colonel has 2 brothers now serving in the Armed Forces, Lt. Charles M. BROOM,
United States Naval Reserve, Baltimore Shipyards, Baltimore, Md.; Ensign Ernest V. BROOM,
U.S. Naval Reserve, now serving with a sub-chaser somewhere in the Southwest
Pacific; S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, was recently discharged after serving with the
Air Corps in the India-Burma Theater.”
(V-238b) Dale R. Broom
"The Kinmundy Express":
Jan. 8, 1942 - "Pvt. Dale R. BROOM, son of Mr. and
Mrs. J.A. BROOM of Alma who has been stationed at Chanute Field the past 15
months, has been transferred to the 1st pursuit group, March Field, Calif."
Apr. 16, 1942 - "Stationed in India": "Mr. and Mrs.
John A. BROOM received a letter from their son, Dale, sent from Karachi, India,
stating that he is feeling fine and while in Australia visited with James "Red"
HAMMER from this city. Previous to this letter, Mr. and Mrs. BROOM received
several pictures sent from Melbourne, Australia."
June 10, 1943 - "Promoted: Mr. and Mrs. John BROOM of
alma have received word from their son, Dale, serving overseas that he has been
promoted to Sergeant. Congratulations."
July 20, 1944 -
"Here’s a dandy letter written June 28th from S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, who is
sojourning in China for the present. He says: I have written to you before, but
I guess you didn’t receive the letter. I get the Kinmundy Express quite often.
Yesterday, I received some March and April issues. I enjoy reading the letters
you print in the paper from boys in the Service, also the Zatso column. The
letter that James ELLIS wrote to you was interesting. I would write to him if I
knew his address. I haven’t run on to any of the boys from around home over
here, as yet, although I know there are some boys from around home in India,
maybe some in China that I don’t know about. I hear there is a JASPER boy here
in China, but I don’t know his address and haven’t seen him yet. I have been
overseas since January 1942. I spent 18 months in India and have been in China
for the past 10 months. The Monsoon season is on now (rainy season). It doesn’t
get as hot here during the rainy season as it did in the jungle where I spent
the Monsoon season last year (in the part of China I am in.) There are places in
China where it gets plenty hot during summer months. I went to a Rest Camp about
a month ago. It is a nice place situated up in the mountains on the banks of a
lake. The lake is supplied with water by a spring at the bottom. They have
facilities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The water is almost crystal
clear. The G.I.’s don’t have much luck catching fish but the Chinese have pretty
good luck catching them. The best thing about a rest camp was the good chow.
They have all G. I. rations there, while at camps we’ve all ate Chinese rations
there, get some fresh fruit and vegetables this time of year, such as tomatoes,
beans, and peaches. The peaches are awfully small and don’t have much taste but
still they taste like peaches. Boy! How I would like to bite into a Southern
Illinois peach right now or some of those Yellow Transparent apples that are
ripe about now. We have 3 shows (movies) per week here, most of them are pretty
good show. We get most of the popular magazines such as Life, Esquire, Look and
Saturday Evening Post and others which are supplied by Special Services. I hope
you received that CBI Roundup that I sent you about 2 weeks ago. I hope the
Rotation Policy get to working over here soon. I guess we have it easy here
compared to some of the other theaters of operation. I will close by saying
thanks for sending the paper. It has world wide circulation going the boys
wherever they are stationed. In closing I would like to say ‘hello’ to the other
boys in the service and the hometown folks around Kinmundy and Alma. I noticed
you received a letter from James HAMMER, who is in the Navy. I have wondered if
he was still O.K. I saw him in Australia in Feb. 1942. He accompanied us on a
war ship."
Dec. 7, 1944 - "Home on Furlough: Sgt. Dale BROOM
arrived home last week to spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
John A. BROOM, near Alma. Sgt. Dale has been spending quite some time in
India and China and we know the old home sure looks good to him."
Dec. 28, 1944 -
"S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, is leaving today
after spending a 28 day furlough at home. He served 34 months overseas, serving
in the C.B.I. Theater (China, Burma India). S. Sgt. BROOM was a ground crew
member in a Fighter Squadron in General Chenaults’ 14th Air Force, and has 2
Bronze Stars to his Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon. After his furlough, he will
report to his new assignment station at Santa Ana, Air Base in Santa Ana,
Calif., where he will be reassigned to an outfit somewhere in the United States.
He has 3 brothers in the Service: John, who was recently promoted to Lt. Col.,
who is in the Air Force in Italy, and Charles, who is a Lt. in the Navy at
Baltimore, Md., and Ernest, an ensign in the navy on sea duty in the Pacific."
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Here's a nice letter from Sgt. Dale
BROOM, who is now stationed in Utah after serving several months overseas.
He says: 'I am stationed here at Kearns, Utah, now about 15 miles from Salt Lake
City. This is an Army Air Force, Overseas Replacement Depot. We boys
who have come back from overseas duty are taking the place of the boys who
haven't been overseas. We are permanent party here. We take care of
the boys passing through going overseas. I don't like this camp any
too well, but it is in the United States and that means a lot to me. These
mountains around here are sure pretty. There is a lot of skiing done
around here on the mountains. Salt Lake City is a nice town. It has
wide streets and there are several historical places to see here. The
Mormon Temple and Salt Lake City Tabernacle and sure nice buildings. Only
about half the people in Salt Lake City are Mormons. All the people in
town are really friendly. It is pretty cold here and lots of snow. I
guess you have had plenty of cold weather there in Illinois too. I was
sure sorry to hear about Harold KLEISS being killed in action. It must
have been a shock to the whole community. It will sure be a great day when
the war is over and all the boys come home again. there will be some who
won't be home again, but let us hope those who have died during this war will
not have died in vain. The war looks pretty good now, don't it? The
Germans and Japs are sure getting a taste of their own medicine, now, aren't
they? In closing I want to say hello to the home town boys who are
scattered all over the world. I will close for now.'"
Apr. 19, 1945 - "S/Sgt Dale BROOM of Utah is enjoying
a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. BROOM, of Alma."
July 19, 1945 – “Receives
Discharge: S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, was
honorably discharged from the army at the Separation Center at Ft. Douglas, Utah, on July 9. Sgt. BROOM
was discharged on the point system, having 105 points. Sgt. BROOM enlisted in
the Air Corps at Chanute Field, Ill. on Sept. 20, 1940, and shipped overseas
with the Fighter Squadron on Jan. 12, 1942, spending about 15 days in Australia,
then continuing to India, serving 24 months overseas in China, Burma, and
India. Sgt. BROOM arrived back in the States on Nov. 22, 1944. He was granted
a 30 day furlough, which was spent with his parents, after which he was assigned
to an air base at Kearns, Utah. He remained there
until receiving his discharge. He is enlisted to wear the Good Conduct Medal,
the American Defense Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with 3
bronze stars. Sgt. BROOM has 3 other brothers still in the service: Charles,
who is a Lt. in the Navy, stationed at Baltimore, Md.; John, a Lt. Col., who is
Commanding Officer of an Air Base near Florence,
Italy; and Ernest, an Ensign in the Navy, on sea duty in the Central Pacific.
- “Gosh, it seems good to get back in civilian clothes again.”
May 13, 1982 – “A Bit of Nostalgia by Dale BROOM”: “I remember the
Argentine Navy cruiser, General Belgrano. It was commissioned in 1938 and was
purchased from the U.S. Navy by Argentine in 1951. It was formerly the heavy
cruiser, “Phoenix”. It was at Pearl Harbor, Dec. 7, 1941, when the Japanese
attacked. On Jan. 12, 1942, the Air Force Unit I was in, the “51st
Fighter Group”, along with several other Army and Air Force units (Army Air
Corps at that time) and personnel, left San Francisco in a large convoy. This
convoy was made up of two large troop transports, the “President Coolidge” and
the “Mariposa” plus cargo ships headed across the South Pacific non-stop to
Melbourne, Australia. The heavy cruiser, “Phoenix” was our escort. On the Navy
Ship “Phoenix” was a Kinmundy, IL man, James “Red” HAMMERS. While we were
docked in Melbourne, Australia, we entered a restaurant in Melbourne and there
sat Red HAMMERS from Kinmundy, IL. We were both a long way from home. James
HAMMERS now resides in Decatur, IL. The “Phoenix participated in many of the
naval battles against the Japs in the Pacific area during World War II.”
Nov. 18, 1982 – “China War Memorial Medal: Mr. and Mrs. Dale BROOM of
Kinmundy, attended a banquet in St. Louis Saturday, Nov. 13, at the Henry VIII
Inn. The occasion was the annual installation of officers of the St. Louis
Basha of the China-Burma-India Veterans Association, and the presentation of the
“China War Memorial Medal”. The medal was awarded to Dale R. BROOM in
recognition of his service in China during World War II in the Air Force. The
award was presented to him by Ted Price, National Commander of the C.B.I.V.A.
Mrs. BROOM was presented a pin in commemoration of the occasion and life-time
membership in the ladies auxiliary of the organization. Servicemen who served
in China during World War II are eligible to receive the China Medal, which is
given by the Nationalist Chinese Government (Taiwan Government).
Ernest V. Broom
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%20Ernie%20Broom%20on%20PC1082%20in%201945.jpg)
Ernest V. Broom aboard PC1082 in 1945
"The Kinmundy Express":
June 29, 1944 - "Ensign Ernest V. BROOM, who graduated
from Midshipmen’s School at Columbia University, New York, left Monday to report
for duty at the Sub-Chaser School, Miami, Fla. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs.
John A. BROOM of Alma."
July 6, 1944 - "Ensign Ernest V. BROOM, who graduated
from Midshipmens' School at Columbia University, New York, left Monday to report
to duty at the Sub-Chaser School, Miami, Fla. He is the son of Mr. and
Mrs. John A. BROOM, of Alma."
Aug. 23, 1945 – “With the 12th Air Force in Italy, Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr.,
Decatur, Ill., son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr. of Alma, Ill., is now on
duty as Executive Officer with the 332nd Air Service Group a unit of the Twelfth
Air Force, servicing Air Corps personnel in the vicinity of Florence, Italy.
Colonel BROOM has gained an enviable reputation with the 12th Air Force
servicing allied war planes throughout the Mediterrian campaign, and servicing
Air Corps personnel in the Florence area. During his 27 months overseas, he has
been awarded 5 bronze stars for services rendered in Naples Foggia, Rome-Arne,
Southern France, North Appenines
and German Campaigns. He also wears the American Theater Ribbon. He is a
graduate of the University of Ill. and was a member of the
following fraternities: The Pharnax, Alpha Tau Sigma, and Pershing Rifles,
graduating with the class of 1932. Col. BROOM’s wife, Mrs. Wilma H. BROOM, and
2 children, John A. BROOM, III, and Robert Dale BROOM, are now residing in
Decatur, Ill. Col. BROOM was
commissioned a 2nd Lieut. in the Infantry Reserves, 8 Sept. 1932, and entered
active duty with the Air Corps on 10 Nov. 1940, being promoted to Lt. Colonel on
17 Nov. 1944. Prior to his military service, he was associated with the
Fruehauf Trailer Co., Detroit, Mich., in the sales dept.
Colonel has 2 brothers now serving in the Armed Forces, Lt. Charles M. BROOM,
United States Naval Reserve, Baltimore Shipyards, Baltimore, Md.; Ensign Ernest V. BROOM,
U.S. Naval Reserve, now serving with a sub-chaser somewhere in the Southwest
Pacific; S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, was recently discharged after serving with the
Air Corps in the India-Burma Theater.”
%20Howard%20Broom%20in%20uniform%201946%20or%201947.jpg)
Howard Broom
(In about 1946 or 1947)
(V-239b) John A. Broom
"The Kinmundy Express":
Sept. 30, 1943 - "We have been informed via the
grapevine that Edward JEZEK who is sojourning in North Africa, paid a visit to
Major John BROOM, Jr. after he read the Major's letter in our paper sometime
ago."
Feb. 10, 1944 - "Here’s another dandy letter from Major John
A. BROOM, Jr. who has moved from North Africa into Italy. Just as a souvenir, he
sent us a piece of Italian money, which he says is worth 1 cent in our money.
Here is what he says: Since writing to you last time many things have taken
place. I’ve spent 4 weeks in a Northern African Army Hospital with jaundice,
moved to my new address "Somewhere in Italy" changed assignments, and have met
new and interesting people. My last letter told you something about the Army
Medical Service over here and at that time I had no idea of becoming a patient
of such an institution so soon. My first few days in the hospital were some what
uncomfortable - no appetite whatsoever; being stuck in the arms and fingers
every so often for blood samples; no taste for cigarettes or my pipe; taking an
unnecessary amount of foul tasting medicines; listening to the other patients
talk about the swell food they were having in the dining hall (I was on a soft
diet and couldn’t bear the sight of it); taking an afternoon nap then being
forced to go to sleep at 9 o’clock in the evening. After the first week,
however, I regained my appetite and was permitted to eat in the officer’s mess.
I was hungry all the time. Immediately I started gaining weight. While "resting"
in the hospital, and that’s a true story, I learned to play chess - my first
exposure to that game which before I had considered ‘sissy’ and played only by
wealthy old men - but with hours to wile away we thought nothing of spending 2
or 3 hours on one game. No, none of us were particularly good. I lost my knights
and queen with disgusting regularity, though I did manage to defeat the Ward
Champion, an English Lieutenant, one time. In addition to playing chess all of
the patients spent a great deal of time reading books and magazines furnished by
the American Red Cross. We had recent issues of Time, Newsweek, Life, Collier’s
Saturday Evening Post, and others. Such books as "Oliver Wiswell", "30 Seconds
Over Toyko", "So little time", "Assignment in Brittany, mystery novels and many
others were available to us. Right here I would like to say a good word for the
American Red Cross. They are doing a most commendable job over here in operating
enlisted men’s clubs, Red Cross Officer’s Clubs and other important services.
Many times the only decent place for a man to go for a snack, to write letters,
or just plain loafing, is the Red Cross Club. At these clubs they have good
eats, recreation rooms, writing rooms and lounge rooms. Field service units make
rounds to various organizations serving hot coffee and doughnuts. So far in my
experience overseas I have heard criticism only a very few times of the Red
Cross, but most always one can hear words of praise for their work. This old
world is a small place and seems to get smaller and smaller every day. It seems
to me the farther I get away from home the more people I meet who are from parts
of the country known to me or are former acquaintances or friends. As you
probably know, I lived in Columbia, S.C. for some time and probably know more
people intimately there than in any other part of the States. About 2 months
ago, I saw a little negro boy (small man I should say) in Navy fatigue uniform.
On his left rear pocket he had the name "Dreher" stenciled in white letters.
While living in Columbia, I knew several families by the name of "Dreher". I
approached this fellow and said "Boy, where are you from?" (The conversation
went something like this.) "Ise frum South Carolina, suh". "From Columbia?", I
asked. "No suh, not xactly. Ise frum what dey calls West Columbia." "What part
of West Columbia?" "Ise frum what dey calls Sugahtown, suh", he drawled. "Oh
yes, right over there in the lane by Cayse school?" I asked. "Yassuh." "Does
your Dad work at the brickyard (Guignard Brick Works)?" "Yassuh." "Do you know
Mr. ALBERT and Mr. George HOUGH?" "Y-a-s S-U-H. Suh, is you all frum Columbia?"
he questioned. "Yes, I am from Columbia and I know your old man", replied. When
I started to leave him he extended his hand in real friendship and says, "Majuh,
Suh, I hopes we meet again soon, and I hopes dats in Columbia." He then saluted
and walked away. I am telling you this because this is a typical conversation
between 2 fellows overseas, regardless of color. If they know someone mutually,
or are familiar with the same part of the country. It’s really and truly a grand
reunion. My Illinois acquaintances don’t seem to show up over here, as I haven’t
seen a soul from near Marion county except my former Executive Officer, Michael
J. KING, who was formerly in the oil business during the oil boom. (He’s from
Mt. Vernon.) Censorship regulations prevent me from writing anything in detail
about this country, perhaps I’ll be able to do so at a later date. Afterall
there is a war being fought over here. I’m sure I can say a few things about it,
however. Geographically it is a beautiful country, with mountains (some
snowcapped), vegetable gardens, citrus fruits, apples, etc. The general means of
transportation for the natives are mule, burro, horse, oxen, or human drawn
2-wheeled carts. There are some enormous cats with wheels about 6 or 8 feet in
diameter. These carts are not what we would call factory made, but are hewn by
hand from raw timber in shops such as a blacksmith shop in the States. Driving a
vehicle on the highways is a most difficult task due to the fact that there are
so many of these carts on the road. In addition to this hazard there are always
many people walking on the roads. Have you ever been down South and seen a negro
carrying a watermelon on his head? I’ve seen that many times and have always
marveled at the balance they had, but I think these Italian people have them
beat on that score. They carry tremendous loads on their heads, and much of the
time the bearer may be barefooted, at the best have a pair of wooden sole shoes
with a strap over the top - much the same as a shower shoe. Really, I’ve seen
children and some grownups as well walking in cold mud or water on the streets
or highways barefooted when the temperature was below freezing. It’s pitiful,
especially to see poor innocent children going through such privation. We, of
the good old United States, do not know or realize what it means to be poor, nor
do we know what it means to have a real war come to our country to tear down our
home and our places of business. We can be so thankful and deeply grateful for
this. The end of this war will mean much to every civilized person in the world,
so we must end it soon. We want to get home to our families, and, no doubt, the
people of the invaded countries want to settle down to business again. I’d
better leave such talk to the News Correspondents, don’t you think? I received
the carton of cigarettes from the Chamber of Commerce and want to thank them for
the remembrance. Also, to all the people who have so kindly and thoughtfully
remembered me with greetings, I wish to thank them. Your thoughts of us, your
prayers for our safe return are always requested and graciously received. S’long
until next time."
Nov. 2, 1944 - "Here's a dandy letter from Major John
A. BROOM, Jr., who is still in Italy. He says: Yes I'm in Italy - still
the same place from which you last heard from me, but don't let that fool you.
Since that time, I've seen much of it (Italy I mean) and in addition to that
have seen southern France for a short time. Speaking of the latter, I have
never seen such a contrast of countries in my life. Frances is more like
some parts of the States I've seen. It's clean; it's beautiful; it doesn't
have the scars of war to the extent that Italy has, or at least the parts of
Italy I've seen; the people are clean and cheerful; they are glad to see the
Americans. Really it was like heaven for those few days I spent there.
Say, I think I should claim the championship on weather prophecy noy! I've
been reading that 'Zatso' Column for a long time and I don't think you can beat
this one. Three nights ago a group of we officers were standing out in
front of our tents, after supper, talking about everything in general and
nothing in particular when the subject of weather came up. One of the
fellows said, 'Look at that clear streak over in the west, perhaps we will have
some clear weather tonight and tomorrow.' Understand the clouds hung
heavily overhead. I spoke up and said, 'Well, gentlemen, unless my signs
are wrong, you'd be better 'go home', batten down the hatches, adjust your tent
ropes, for I think we will have some wind very soon, at least before morning.'
An hour later the wind began to blow hard and blew progressively harder all
night. Well, night before last we were in the same position after supper.
The sky was clear and beautiful overhead, the sunset was slightly hazy.
Someone said, 'Well, that's a rainy sky and the sunset in my way of thinking.'
'Ole BROOM' chirps up with his prediction and says 'No gentlemen, we'll have a
cool clear sunrise tomorrow. That yellow tint comes from the spray blown
from the sea or ground.' Sure enough! the night was cool - in fact,
almost cold - the morning dawned cool, clear and exotic - really a perfect day.
It remained beautiful all day - the finest weather we've seen in many moon.
Right again. What next? We were outside last night in our usual
'after supper mood' talking and predicting. There was a beautiful sunset -
red with a few icy looking clouds along the western horizon. Someone said,
'Well, a clear day tomorrow - look at the gorgeous sunset, it's red all along
those clouds as far as you can see.' Surely enough, what's left of this
'Whisk' BROOM, comes up with his usual dissenting opinion. 'Fellows, that
sunset is a wolf in sheep's clothing.' Its rather dirty around the edges
and if you had planned on tightening your tent ropes too much, don't do it, for
I look for rain before morning.' (In case you don't know it, we loosen
tent ropes before or during rain so that when they get wet and shrink they won't
pull the pegs out of the ground.) It seems uncanny and insane that I
should make such a prediction at such a time as this when at the very moment the
new moon was hanging lazily in the western sky, the stars were bright and
beginning to twinkle and the cool autumn air was as crisp as a frozen leaf
of lettuce. As you might expect, though, this morning about 0530 to 6000
hours I was awakened by a gentle 'litter spatter' on my tent roof. Right
again! Well, it has rained off and on all day and looks like a real 'goose
drowner' is coming any minute. (Fact of the matter is, it just started
with wind, lightning and thunder.) Our mail has been spasmodic for the
past 2 months and I am way behind, but one letter filters through now and then.
Your papers are coming thru once in a while, but haven't received any late ones.
Just got a letter from Dale, my kid brother who has been in the Far Eastern
Theater with a Fighter Group since January 1942. He is on his way home and
by the time you receive this he will probably be there. I certainly envy
him, but then I have only about half, little more than half, as much overseas
time in as he has. Hope you have a good Christmas and also that you have
as good luck on your prophesies on the weather as I have this week. The
trouble with me is that I don't have enough faith in my predictions to bet on
them. Give my regards to all."
Nov. 23, 1944 -
"Here’s a short note, a V-Mail from Major J.A. BROOM, Jr., who is somewhere in
Italy. He signed this letter, "Johnny BROOM, sometimes known as Whisk". We have
often wondered if everything was so straight-laced in the army after the boys
reached the other side. But from this remark we take it, they might have a
little fun calling one another nicknames. Here is what he says: This morning I
am wondering what it would be like to be a civilian! Four years ago this morning
I reported for 1 year of active duty with the Air Corps - that’s a long year,
don’t you think? This 4 years of duty has been interesting. There have been
interesting people, interesting places, and interesting experiences. 18½ months
and overseas - riding on ships, seeing interesting places such as Casa Blanca,
Oran, Algiers, Tunis, Bizerte, Naples, Foggia, Rome, Touloran, Marseilles,
Cannes, Nice, Florence, Casino, Anzio, and other places too numerous to mention.
I’ve known and been under the commands of such officers as Lt. General BREHERTON,
General WILLIAMS and others. I’ve ridden jeeps, bicycles, GMC 6 x 6s and 40 and
8s. I’ve flown in PT-18s, PT-14s, B-18s, B-25s, C-47s, Cubs, and A-18s. So, as
you might assume, I’m like the fellow in Arkansas in the filling station
business "The only reason I’m carrying on is to see what the H___ is going to
happen next". Best regards to all."
Dec. 21, 1944 - "We
have received many Christmas greetings from the boys but there is a personal one
for Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., who is still somewhere in Italy. He says: As
Christmas draws nearer, my thoughts are more than ever with the folks at home.
I’m not feeling sorry for myself but so sincerely regret having to be away for
another holiday season. Dale, my brother, who has spent almost 3 years in CBI
theater, is fortunate in getting home at the time, but he certainly deserves it
and I am glad for him. We have so much for which to be thankful for - life,
health, and the privilege of serving our country in one way or another, and at
this time of year it would benefit all of us to say a few extra prayers for our
days to come. My Christmas wish to you is "Merry, Merry Christmas and may you
enjoy 365 happy, prosperous, and successful days in 1945. May you continue
undaunted in your chosen profession and write many more "Zatso" columns. Our
wish to all would add "May we be remembered in your prayers for our safety and
eventual safe return home." "Home Alive in ‘45!"
March 22, 1945 - Here's another one of those
interesting letters from Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., who is still in Italy.
The letter was dated 9th March, sent via air-mail and we received it on the
17th, which speaks very well for this mail service. He says: It seems that
during the past several issues of your paper that sorrow and bereavement
have taken the forefront. With the passing of Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, the
'missing in action' of Carl PURCELL, the death of my beloved aunt, Mae
Schermerhorn, and many others makes me feel very sorry and sympathetic for those
people at home - the relatives, the friends. Sometimes when I read of the
various ones who have been lost in action I feel that perhaps some of us are not
doing our bit, since we aren't getting shot up all the time. Then, of
course, I have to realize that without good air force the life would be much
more miserable for those on the ground. Yes, we all have a part to play
and if someone is lucky enough to be in a safer position than other, I suppose
he should not be criticized for it. The difference in the war now and what
it was two years ago shows what a superior air force means to the dough-foot in
the front lines. While I wasn't there, I have been told of "Messerschmidt
Lane" and "Foch-Wulf Alley" in the days of the life and death struggle for
Tunisa, while today it is a rare thing to see an enemy plane. About a year
or so ago, I was visiting some friends not too far from the front when I saw a
Foch-Wulf 190 strafe a road - and he wasn't too far away. Anytime you
don't think that is a thrilling thing, you are wrong. One doesn't know
which way to run. About two weeks ago I received a letter from
Arthur MUEHLHAUSEN from Alma, and he said ' I don't suppose we are close enough
to ever see one another, but wish we could.' Well, it so happened that I
could tell by his address approximately his location and found that we were not
too far apart. I wrote back and asked him to look me up - I haven't heard
from him since - but I'm slightly farther away than I was when I wrote the
letter. As you can see, I am still in the forgotten theater of war.
Every other battle on the face of the globe is stealing the lime light. This is
not because of the type of fighting here in Italy, nor the terrain, but merely
because other battles are probably more important to the ultimate end. It
is difficult for you folks back there to realize the tough fight which Italy has
represented. You probably think of Italy as having real full-grown
mountains, do you? Actually there are some of the most rugged mountains,
the most violent rivers, and the most unpleasant weather in the world. The
armies have fought these obstacles all the way through Italy in addition to
fighting a very tough enemy. The only reason I bring this up is so that
you folks back there won't discount the soldier who has fought in Italy.
We just had a USO show here, one of the best I have seen yet. It was
D'Artega and his all girl band - some of those lovely American beauties that we
can only dream about. It is so refreshing to see a group of nice, clean,
pretty, talented American girls again - it makes one realize that this is one
thing he is fighting for. One of the girls was from Lebanon, Ill, a very
sweet sax player - it certainly made me homesick to see all of them. Now,
I know you won't believe what I am about to say, for it seems that most people
back there want to hear only of the hardships of war on this side of the pond.
At present time I am living, working, and eating in steam heated buildings.
It is a small locality far away from everything of particular interest, but
is so arranged that every9one can be as comfortable as he would be at home.
Our eats are very good. We wouldn't be ashamed to feed the President in
our mess - chinaware which we have purchased over here, table cloths which we
have purchased. Just a darn good mess. Like the USO girls who ate
with us last night said, 'We were told that we could expect to lose about 10
pounds on this tour and its been the other way around. I've gained 10
pounds already.' That goes for most of us. I, being the skinny
little fellow who formerly haunted those parts, now balance the scales at an
even 190 pounds and am disgustingly healthy. You will probably say that we
are living too well for being in a war, but my counterattack is voiced by a
saying of a prominent military figure in this theater, that 'any d___ fool can
be uncomfortable.' I'm a very busy man at present since I am doing several
jobs. As Group Supply officer Group Administrative Officer, Group Courts
and Boards Officer, and Legal Assistances officer, plus being Chairman of the
board of Governors of our Officer's club, I am kept on the jump. In spite
of all this several of us find time of an evening to play bridge, no gambling
whatsoever. It makes the time go faster. I have almost sworn off
going to picture shows for the simple reason there are about three types of
shows and none suit my present mental set-up. There is the loves story
which makes me homesick for my family; there is the mystery story which makes me
have bad dreams; there is the type where some husband is trying to steal the
other's wife or vice versa which is no interest to me. Well, I must get
along. It might interest you to know that the fruit trees here are in full
bloom, the grass is green and except for an abundance of birds one could easily
feel that its springtime in Illinois. We haven't had but very little rain
since Christmas, some cold, as you think of it there, however. There is
still some frost 'on the pumpkin' some mornings. We are 'sweating out' getting
home in 1945 sometime. The war looks favorable for such an occurrence so
perhaps it will come true. Two years is enough for anyone to spend away
from his family, don't you think? My sympathy goes out to all those who
have been so unfortunate to lose loved ones in this war."
April 25, 1945 - "Here's another one of those nice
letters from Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr. dated 13 April, Somewhere in Italy.
He says: Would it not be proper to dedicate this letter, this Day to our great
Commander-in-Chief, who has passed to the Great Beyond. It is a day of
sadness for me, for all the members of the Armed Forces and I know the same for
the World at large. The shocking news of the death of our President came
to us while at breakfast this morning. Some of the fellows heard the news
over BBC and also American stations during the night last night and was verified
later. Of course, no one could believe that such a thing could have come
about. No one could believe that we could possibly lose our beloved leader
at such a critical time! It just couldn't be! However, in most
everything one can find some consolation, something for which he can be thankful.
This sad event could have occurred before or during the Yalta Conference, for we
know he wasn't at all well during that time. His determination, his
energy, his will to see the World affairs righted to peacetime living, made his
participation in that historic conference possible. His insight into the
future made possible the planning for the San Francisco Conference, which
meeting President Truman has already stated will come off on schedule. I
have heard several fellows express their grief and sympathy today. Some
are saying 'We have two Commanders now - one who has just taken over and one who
will live in spirit and offer a guiding hand even though he has left us.'
Everyone seems to take it as a matter of personal loss. Immediately upon
hearing of the death of the President this morning I ordered the flag lowered to
half mast (I happened to be acting C.O. as I was senior officer in camp.)
When two or more fellows assembled in a group to discuss or mention the news one
could notice deep sorrow. Every now and then you could see a fellow's eyes
moisten and notice his eyes flinch from the salty tears which he was holding
back. Our new President has some 'big shoes to fill', and he can do it, he
must do it, and I'm sure he will do it well. It is difficult to think
about any other news today. Do the people at home feel the same way?
Some people may think this letter that I am a staunch Democrat, well, I'm not.
I like to think that I want to see a good man in office regardless of his party.
Our late President has been somewhat a favorite of mine for a long time
for several reasons - for the things he has did without fear of personal
reprisal, his ability to make friends with our Allies, and because he is, or has
been Our Commander-in-Chief. Getting off that subject for the moment, I
think I remember seeing you stand around on the Station platform there at
Kinmundy time after time watching people get on and off Train No. 23. That
was years ago - yes, from the first time I can remember. I can see you now
- tablet and pencil in hand making notes, and, if I'm not mistaken you were
smoking a pipe. Am I right? Well, based on the belief that you are a
pipe smoker, and the fact that you are smoking a pipe right now that is so
strong it could 'walk home', I have taken the privilege of mailing a good
Italian briar pipe to you. I believe you will find this pipe a good one -
good briar and good workmanship, and if your really love a pipe, you will find
it a good friend. I bought several of these pipes the other day and have
sent one to Dad, Dick, Dale, chuck, Walter, and two of my brothers-in-law.
Needless to say, it wasn't like buying a pocketfull of clay marbles, but you
would have to pay double or even triple for the same pipe back there. The
one you are getting is my favorite style and really intended keeping it for
myself, but thought you would enjoy it. We are playing softball several
nights a week. The league is made up of several teams in this area, and
the one on which I am playing is made up of enlisted men and officers. It
so happens that I am the pitcher of our team. If I only had the pitching
arm of my brother, Dick, I could show these fellows a thing or two. In
three league games I have pitched, however, I have given one base on balls,
allowed 12 hits. That isn't so bad for an old man, for a fellow who didn't
start playing softball until after he was 30 years old, do you think?
There is nothing else to report from this part of the world, except that I'm
doing supply work now as Group Material officer, am also Inspector, Courts and
Boards officer, Legal Assistance Officer, and just on the side am teaching an
Armed Forces Institute course in Advertising two nights a week. As you see
all the time that I have free I can't very well get into any kind of trouble.
My regards to all, my sympathies and condolences to all those who have lost
loved ones in this conflict, and wishes for a sudden and complete finish to
this terrible war."
May 17, 1945 - "Here's another one of those good
letters from Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr. dated 4th May, Somewhere in Italy.
He says: The battle of Italy has ended! After 22 months of bloodshed,
sweat, dust, rain, mud, and mountains, the 5th and 8th Armies have completed
their liberation. They have scoured every foot of Italian soil from the
beaches of Gela and Licata in Sicily to the Swiss and Austrian frontiers.
They have crossed turbulent rivers, high snow-capped mountains, deadly mine
fields, broad coastal plains where every more was registered by the Germans
from their vantage points of the surrounding mountains. The victory is a
great one, indeed, even though so many people discounted the importance of the
campaign in relation to the overall picture and even though there has been much
criticism of the campaign because of long periods of stalemate. The
composition of these two armies is history in itself. The many
nationalities of peoples who have worked, who have fought, and how have died
side by side throughout the rugged campaign, is symbolic of the instinctive
desire for freedom. A few months ago I was present at a review which was
being given for a high ranking officer at which there was a representative of
every nationality fighting in Italy. There were Scottish Bag Pipers,
American White Soldiers, American Negros, Brasilians, Welch, English, Indians,
Canadians, Poles, Italians, Italian Partisians, American born Japanese, French
(including French Colonial Troops). This gives one the idea of the desires
capabilities of freedom loving peoples to stamp out the oppressors. It
displays an attitude of teamwork, fair play and love of principles for which it
is worth dying. The news of the German surrender in Italy came as a
natural course of events, since we had so thoroughly disorganized and
annihilated the remaining German troops here. Instead of a time for
rejoicing, for loud parties, for drinking, and for excitement, most everyone
took the news calmly. There seems to be a sigh of relief, a let-down feeling,
and an inner satisfaction that each one had done his job well and was grateful
for the final victory. We, as a Group (the soldiers), who are living are
grateful to God for sparing our lives. For those who have given their all
in this conflict, we offer our prayers and to their loved ones our sympathies.
We pray that their sacrifice may help pave the way for a better world, a
peaceful world, a world where our sons and daughters may live in freedom from
fear. To some of us, perhaps this Italian victory means that we are closer
home. To others it means only the beginning for there are other
bloody-tougd battles to be fought on the other side of the world. Our
remaining enemy, after the Germans have quit, are even worse, more ruthless, and
inhuman, if such is possible. This last statement, at this time, doubtful
after all we have heard and read about German atrocities in Concentration Camps
and Prisoner of War camps. We hope against hope that we may be allowed to
have a short sojourn with our families at home before going to the Pacific, if
we are destined to go there, but our fate, as in the past, is in the hands of
our leaders who are able to see the broader picture. they have done such
an outstanding job in the past that we are fully confident in their every
action! So many of us have been away from home for such a long time that
we would appreciate the chance to become acquainted with our families again.
At this moment we are waiting - waiting for the final surrender in Europe, which
seems inevitable and in the very near offing. Its a strange felling!
Its a new, yet coveted experience! We know its coming - what will we do
when the news is flashed? Of one thing, we will have a special prayer
service to officer thanks for our victory and ask for courage, strength and
willpower to complete the world wide task of subduing our oppressors. To
the people at home, we hope your thoughts and prayers are the same. We
hope your actions are in keeping with their own. We hope you celebrate -
not too loudly - but sincerely, keeping in mind that we are facing more war and
complete victory is possible only through your continued efforts of production
and sacrifice. You have done such a grand and enormous job at home!
Goodness knows why I have written this letter, except that such new experiences
have brought many thoughts to my mind. You will read about all of what I
have said in the newspapers and hear it over the radio, but perhaps this letter
will be just a little more personal. I think my words are in keeping with
what many others would like to say, or wished to have said. This Italian
was, or has been our own "little" battle for a long time. It has been
pushed to the background in the news many times because of flashy and
outstanding accomplishments elsewhere but there is nothing in the world that can
ever convince us that we haven't played an important role in the final overall
victory. to the 3rd, 36th, 45th and 82nd Airborne Divisions, all of whom
have fought in Italy and who are now helping clean up the Western Front.
We must include in our salute to 'gallant forces' who made our Italian victory
possible. We in the Air Forces claim some credit, but our hats are off to
those ground force fellows who have been taking it day and night for these long
22 months. Why feeble words cannot express my thoughts, so why say more?"
June 21, 1945 - (Letter from Col. John A. BROOM Jr.
in Florence was included in this edition of "The Kinmundy Express")
July 12th, July 19th, Aug. 9th, Aug. 16th, 1945 - "Lt.
Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., of Italy, Writes about Trip through Egypt and
Palestine: We believe that by this time most of your readers are pretty well
acquainted with Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM of
Alma. Col. BROOM is the Commanding Officer of an air field near Florence,
Italy. He has developed into our No. 1 foreign correspondent. His
letters have all been interesting and we have enjoyed reproducing them for you.
This time, Col. BROOM, writes a story on a trip he made into Egypt and
Palestine. It is rather lengthy and so we will give you part of it and the
rest next week so here it is." (The full text is in the editions
listed above.)
Aug. 23, 1945 – “With the 12th Air Force in Italy, Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr.,
Decatur, Ill., son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr. of Alma, Ill., is now on
duty as Executive Officer with the 332nd Air Service Group a unit of the Twelfth
Air Force, servicing Air Corps personnel in the vicinity of Florence, Italy.
Colonel BROOM has gained an enviable reputation with the 12th Air Force
servicing allied war planes throughout the Mediterrnean campaign, and servicing
Air Corps personnel in the Florence area. During his 27 months overseas, he has
been awarded 5 bronze stars for services rendered in Naples Foggia, Rome-Arne,
Southern France, North Appenines
and German Campaigns. He also wears the American Theater Ribbon. He is a
graduate of the University of Ill. and was a member of the
following fraternities: The Pharnax, Alpha Tau Sigma, and Pershing Rifles,
graduating with the class of 1932. Col. BROOM’s wife, Mrs. Wilma H. BROOM, and
2 children, John A. BROOM, III, and Robert Dale BROOM, are now residing in
Decatur, Ill. Col. BROOM was
commissioned a 2nd Lieut. in the Infantry Reserves, 8 Sept. 1932, and entered
active duty with the Air Corps on 10 Nov. 1940, being promoted to Lt. Colonel on
17 Nov. 1944. Prior to his military service, he was associated with the
Fruehauf Trailer Co., Detroit, Mich., in the sales dept.
Colonel has 2 brothers now serving in the Armed Forces, Lt. Charles M. BROOM,
United States Naval Reserve, Baltimore Shipyards, Baltimore, Md.; Ensign Ernest V. BROOM,
U.S. Naval Reserve, now serving with a sub-chaser somewhere in the Southwest
Pacific; S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, was recently discharged after serving with the
Air Corps in the India-Burma Theater.”
Nov. 22, 1945 – “Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., paid our office a visit this past
week and stated that he was enjoying a 45 day leave with his wife and 2 sons,
Johnny Roy, 5, and Bobbie, 3, who have been making their home in Decatur with
her parents, and with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr., of Alma.
Col. BROOM received his commission in the reserve army as a 2nd Lieut., Sept. 8,
1932, following his graduation from the University of
Illinois the June previous. He was promoted to 1st Lieut. Feb. 16, 1936;
Captain, May 29, 1941; Major Oct. 10, 1942; Lieut. Colonel, Nov. 17, 1944. His
first commissions were in the Infantry but he later transferred to the Air
Corps. Col. BROOM was called to active duty
Nov. 10, 1940, and shipped
overseas in 1942, landing in Algeria and was stationed in Oran and Constantine
later going into Tunisia where he was stationed in Bizerte. From there he went
to Italy and was stationed in Naples, Grossetto, Pisa, and Florence. His next
move was into Southern France where he was stationed near Marseilles. He was
Service Group Executive Officer for the 12th Air Force. Col. BROOM wears the
American Theater Ribbon and the African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 5
stars, representing the Naples Foggia Campaign, the Rome-Arno Campaign, Southern
France, Rhineland, and North Apennines. Col. BROOM will report to Greenboro, N.C. on Dec. 2 for
re-assignment.”
July 3, 1952 – “Word has been received here by Mr. and
Mrs. J.A. BROOM that their son, Lt. Col. John A. BROOM Jr. has arrived in
England. Col. BROOM was recalled to military service last year, and was troop
commander aboard ship. His wife and two sons of
Columbia,
S.C. will visit here with the BROOMS this month and will join him in England in
August.”
June 27, 1957 - "John A. BROOM, Jr., Wins Commission As
Res.
Col.: Recently promoted to colonel in the Air Force Reserve is John A. BROOM,
Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Alma, Ill. Colonel and Mrs. BROOM
now reside at 3620 Duncan St., Columbia, S.C. He is the store manager for
the Cate-Mclaurin Co. in Columbia. The BROOMs have two sons, John A. III,
17, and Robert Dale 15. Mrs. BROOM is the former Wilma HUGENBERGER,
daughter of Mrs. Mary HUGENBERGER, Decatur. The new colonel's mobilization
assignment will be as commander of the 363rd Maintenance and Supply Group there,
or a comparable assignment. Col. BROOM attended Kinmundy High School,
received his ROTC commission and a Bachelor of Science degree from the
University of Illinois in 1932, and attended the Illinois college of law, Univ.
of Ill. in 1933 and 1934. Col. BROOM has served more than eight years on
active duty, two and one-half in the Mediterranean theater during World War II,
and served in Korea from May, 1952, until Sept. 1953, as commander of the 20th
Maintenance and Supply Group of the 20th Fighter-Bomber Wing. His World
War II decorations include: Five Campaign Stars, the American Theater Ribbon,
the African-Mediterranean Ribbon, the Air Defense Medal, and the Victory Medal.
Service schools which he attended are: the Warner Robins AFB Air Service Area
Command and Staff School in 1922, the Air University Command and Staff School in
1951 and 1952, and the Industrial College for Armed Forces in 1951 and 1952.
Col BROOM is a member of the Columbia Sales Executive's club, the Columbia's
Credit Manager's association, the Colunbia club is current president of the third
district of the National Retail Credit association, the Columbia club, is
current, Crippled Children's Association and is chairman of the board of deacons
of the Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Columbia."
Stanford Broom (WWI)
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%20Stanford%20Broom%20in%20WWIb.jpg)
Wilbur Broom
"The Kinmundy Express" -
March 8, 1945 - "Missing in Action: Pvt. Wilbur BROOM, husband of
Mrs. Jessie BROOM, of Gary, Ind. has been missing in action in Luxembourg since
Dec. 20, 1944, according to a war dept. telegram received last week. A member of
the 110th Infantry which was one of the hardest hit units during the German
drive into Belgium. He entered the service in Oct. 1943 and was originally
placed in a railroad battalion transferring later to the infantry unit."
April 12, 1945 - "Killed in Action: Word has been
received by Mrs. Chas. DODSON that her son-in-law, Pvt. Wilbur A. BROOM of Gary,
Ind., was killed in action Dec. 20, 1044 in Luxembourg. He was the
husband of the former Miss Jessie DODSON."
May 17, 1945 - Pvt. Wilbur BROOM Killed in
Action: Pvt. Wilbur Arthur, son of the late William and Thelia Belle CROWN
BROOM, was born in Alma, Ill. on Feb. 9, 1914 and was killed in action in
Luxembourg, Dec. 20, 1944. He grew to manhood in Alma and on Nov. 6, 1937,
married Miss Jessie DODSON, of this city. Soon after their marriage, they went
to Gary, Ind., where he had employment. He entered the armed services on Oct.
13, 1943. He was shipped overseas in Aug. 1944, landing in England. From there
he was taken into France, Belgium, Germany, and Luxembourg. A telegram received
by the widow on Jan. 19th, stated that he was "Missing in Action 20 December".
No more word was received until on April 5th when she received another telegram
from the War Dept. stating that he was "Killed in Action, 20 December." Besides
his wife and mother, he leaves 2 sisters, Mrs. Carrie BROOM, Alma, and Mrs.
Lavina SHUFELDT, Iuka, and 4 brothers, Roy, St. James, Ill.; Paul, Chester,
Ill., Frederick, Missouri, and Riley, Gary, Ind. The widow, Mrs. Jessie BROOM,
has been visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. DODSON, in this city, for the
past 2 weeks. Memorial services will be held sometime in the near future.
Dec. 19, 1946 - "In Memoriam: In loving memory of our
dear husband and son, Wilbur A. BROOM, who was killed in Luxembourg 2 years ago,
December 20, 1944.
Memories of you fond and tender
Flood our aching hearts today;
Always dear we will remember
You, who died so far away.
But it seems you're ever near us,
Bidding us to dry our tears;
We can see your face still smiling
And your voice again we hear.
Though you lost your life in battle,
Victory you have surely won.
God opened wide the Gates of Heaven
Welcomes you and said, well done.
So sadly missed by his wife and mother and all his dear ones.
Mrs. Jessie BROOM and Mrs. Belle BROOM
Wilbur Broom
(V-305) - Wilbur Broom
July 15, 1948 - "Pvt. Wilbur A. BROOM to Arrive Soon:
The casketed remains of Private Wilbur A. BROOM, a World War II deceased member
of the Army from Gary, Indiana being returned from overseas for final burial,
will arrive in Kinmundy within the next five weeks accompanied by a uniformed
army escort from the Chicago Distribution Center of the American Graves
Division. The body of Pvt. BROOM was interred in the Hamm- Luxembourg
temporary military cemetery in Luxembourg, but has been returned to this country
for final interment at the request of his wife, Mrs. Jessie L. BROOM, R.R. #2,
Gary, Indiana."
Aug. 19, 1948 - "Pvt. Wilbur BROOM funeral rites in
Alma Sunday: Funeral services for Pvt. Wilbur BROOM will be held at the
Methodist Church in Alma, Sunday, August 22 at 2:00 p.m. The casketed
remains of this lad arrived here Tuesday morning on C. & E.I. Train No. 123.
The body will lay in state in the Linton Funeral Home until the funeral hour.
Burial will be made in the Alma Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No.
519, American Legion."
Aug. 26, 1948 - "Funeral Rites Held Sunday
Afternoon for Pvt. Wilbur BROOM: Funeral services were conducted Sunday
afternoon from the Alma Methodist Church for the casketed remains of Pvt. Wilbur
BROOM, Rev. HAYES, officiating, assisted by Rev. CURTIS. Interment was made in
the Alma Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post, No. 519, American
Legion. Again we are reminded of the price we pay to enjoy the privileges and
blessings of living in our beloved land. More than a century ago, our
forefathers pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to secure
for us these God given blessings. And in the intervening years when dangers
have threatened our peace and security, the strong men of our land have risen in
their might and driven from our midst the forces that would destroy our
freedom. But always a price has been paid - many who left their homes have not
returned. They gave their lives to defend their country’s honor. And this
afternoon we have come together with humbled hearts to pay tribute to the memory
of one of our boys to whom it fell the lot to make the supreme sacrifice. Pvt.
Wilbur Arthur BROOM entered the armed services Oct. 13, 1943. He was inducted
into the army in Indianapolis, Ind. After training in camps in the U.S., he
shipped overseas in Aug. 1944, landing in England. From there, he was taken to
France, Belgium, Germany, and Luxembourg. He served in the 110th Infantry, 28th
Division. In the bitter fighting in the “break through” in December of ‘44, the
Keystone Division, as it was called, was forced to make many sacrifices to carry
out the task assigned to them. A telegram received by his wife on Jan. 19th,
stated that he was “Missing in Action” 20th of December. No more
word was received until April 3rd when she received another message
from the War Department stating that he was “Killed in Action 20th of
December”. Wilbur Arthur, son of the late John William and Thelia Belle CROWN
BROOM, was born in Alma, Feb. 9, 1914. He was the youngest of 8 children. The
brothers and sisters surviving him are: Roy of St. James; Paul of Chester; Fred
of Cape Girardeau, Mo.; Riley Fernando of Gary, Ind.; Mrs. Lavina SHUFELDT of
Iuka; and Mrs. Carrie PURCELL of Alma. He attended the Alma school and took an
active part in the activities of the youth of his community. The other children
establishing homes their own left Wilbur the last one home he shared with his
mother, the cares and joys that attend the usual daily living. On Nov. 6, 1937,
he was married to Miss Jessie DODSON of Kinmundy and soon after they moved to
Gary, Ind., to make their home. He was employed by the City Service Co. of East
Chicago and was known to be a faithful, industrious workman. A little daughter,
Lila Marcella, came in to their home, but only for a fleeting stay for at the
age of 13 days, this little flower faded and died. Into the building of their
new home in Gary went the hopes and dreams of a young couple with life before
them. But these dreams were not to be realized for all to soon the war clouds
cast a shadow over this home and Wilbur answered his country’s call to duty.
With a smile on his face and a prayer in his heart, he left home and loved ones
to go into the thickest of the struggle against our foes. As had been planned
when the new home was built, his mother stayed with them during the cold months
of the year. And after he was called away to service, his wife continued to
open her heart and home to Mother BROOM. These two good women who survive him,
found comfort and solace in their companionship. Today Wilbur will be laid
beneath the soil of his native land and near his boyhood home, where his mother
still resides. And to this hallowed spot will come to his dear ones and friends
to lay garlands of flowers, that they might in some visible way, express their
love and appreciation. Deep in their hearts will be the fervent hope that never
again will youth be asked to pay so dear a price."
(V-200) James Lawson Brown, James T.
Brown, and William E. Brown
James Lawson Brown was a Civil War veteran; James T. Brown
(likely Spanish American War veteran),
and William E. Brown, was a Civil War
veteran.
James Lawson and William E. Brown were brothers.
James T
Brown is likely the son of their first cousin William Henry Brown, also a Civil
War veteran.
James Harvey Brown
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – April 11, 1918;
Fort Riley, Kan.;
March 30, 1918
Hello Pearl -
Have received two issues of the Marion County Express and sure does seem good to
read the news which I read over and over until it is most worn out, not that I’m
homesick, but am afraid I might have overlooked something. Well as yet, I am
still in Ft. Riley, but is very uncertain for how long as there has been quite a
number transferred to several different ports, some to Pennsylvania, Georgia,
California, and Washington. Don’t know the meaning, but it sounds favorable of
a little trip for them across the water, as these are all seaports to which they
have been shipped. Some of the boys I came here with went away last week, part
that went didn’t want to go and part that were left wanted to go. For me I’m
satisfied at the best, orders are orders and what they say goes; if they say
ship me I know I’ll go where I am sent.
The
branch I’m in is one of the best branches of the army. It is the Field Hospital
and lots of good things in this branch to know; they all tell me it is the most
interesting position in the army. Our lieutenant was lecturing us this morning,
telling us all the good points and telling us to carry our heads high and look
like “honest to God soldiers” as they would have to give us our credits when we
play our part, as we are to be first Hospital about five miles back from the
firing line, next to the Evacuation Hospital, then the Base Hospital. For that
reason we have a lot to learn in regard to nursing and caring for the wounded,
so don’t think we will leave here for quite a while.
We are
taking schooling about 3 hours each day, besides in each tent there is a squad
leader, of which I happen to be one, and we are requested to hold school in our
tents, teaching anatomy and physiology besides First Aid Work. I am rather a
poor teacher, though orders are so one can do things in better shape in the army
than elsewhere. I am having a good school in my tent and will have examinations
every three weeks.
Besides our schooling we are taught the English and French style of drill and
take several hikes, our last being this morning. After our inspection of person
and tent quarters by our Lieutenant, we hiked to Funston and the way we went was
about eight miles there and back. On my hike this a.m., I learned something
which I should have learned years ago and that was that about one-half mile east
of our tents stands an old stone building that was the first capitol of the
territory of Kansas and known as Pawnee, where the officers of the Civil War
held conference and the first fight of the Civil War took place about one-fourth
mile east of Pawnee.
The
coming week we will spend the most of our time learning to pitch our Field
Hospital tents, which when all pitched covers 3 acres of ground, and we are to
learn to pitch all this within thirty minutes, and take down and roll up and
load in fifteen minutes. Some speed, I guess, but it can be done. There are
nine men to a tent, small or large, in doing the job and so it is, at all the
tents at the same time. Our company were onlookers the other day to learn. I
saw I could be of some help and others and myself raised the largest sized tent
in 15 minutes. They should have all been raised in that time, but most of our
officers go by instructions of books to know how to raise them and as I had been
instructed by our Lieutenant and had seen one raised and had it down pat, I
bossed the job besides driving a few stakes and we had it up before any of the
rest. By doing so I guess they reported me, for some Lieutenant asked me my
name and to what company I belonged, which I told him and on returning to our
tents my Lieutenant called me in the office and gave me command over a squad to
raise the tents this week. The record on the Field Hospital raising was done by
some of Pershings men; they unloaded and raised tents and had water boiling in
doctor’s apartments in 14⅓ minutes, also took same down, rolled up, loaded and
ready to move in 9 minutes.
Read
Gus SPITZE’s letter in the Express which was quite interesting, although I see
there are a difference in camps, for one thing where there are a small number of
men who eat at one place like 180 to the side of 2800 who eat here in one hour
(more snap). At the time I read it, I know there were a lot of things quite
different from what we have here. I also saw where John FRENCH and “Bekie”
MAHAN, had been made Corporals. Good for them. In our Company are to be 4
Lieutenants, 4 Sergeants, 11 truck drivers and the balance, hospital nurses, and
the like. Don’t know what they will make of me, but have as good chance now for
Sergeant as anyone in our Company and that is where they come from. There are
several things in army life that would make a good subject to write on but as
they are getting more familiar with me each day, I don’t know where to start in
or what to talk about. One of the finest nights I have seen as last Wednesday
when 7000 soldiers marched over the parade ground looking their best, for
inspection before the Major. I was with them somewhere, could hardly tell where
for looking around, until the band commenced to play which led the whole of us
in step, and that was one time when the snap was a little more snappier than
usual. Expect you think I am wound up but this is all interesting to me and I
like to tell it. You can tell all I am feeling fine and getting fat.
Harvey BROWN;
Field Hospital, Co. B.T. 128; Fort Riley, Kan.
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – Nov. 14, 1918;
Oct. 20, 1918 - "A rainy day in France and a thought of homefolks the same day. Am
finally situated permanently after 10 days of roving around in France. I
have been separated from all whom I knew at Fort Riley, expept one, but that
makes little difference, especially over here for the boys seem more friendly
here than while in the states. I am working in a convalescent ward in one
of the best hospitals of the United States in France. Am a long way from
the front, but near enough to receive good news each evening from there, which
makes us feel good, but with all the good news, it can't be too good to suit me.
I do not mind my work, really like it, but could never get crazy about what I
have seen of Europe. All the fellows in here today can talk and are from
everywhere and I am inquisitive enough to know where they all belong. I
have found by talking to the boys that there are others beside myself who do not
care as much for roving as they thought and are more home loving than ever
before. Thought when I left the states I would possibly run across some of
the boys who are over here, but in vain. After I am here awhile and get
some addresses of those who are over here, I may get a chance to see them.
I well remember what you told me Hubert said in one of his letters about the
streets being narrow and winding and it is sure true. Can't say much only
a word from me.
As ever, James Harvey BROWN; Base Hospital No. 1010; A.P.O. No. 701,
American E.F. France."
"Marion County Express"; Kinmundy, IL
July 24, 1919 - Home from the Service: Oswald MILLER,
Ralston HANNA, J. Harvey BROWN, and Ben CRAIG all arrived home within the past
few days after having served with the U.S. Army and Navy. C.B. MOORE and
George HAGG have also returned home from France both of their wives and families
making this city their home. The arrival of these boys marks the return of
all but a very few of the many boys from this community who served in the great
war and a hearty greeting is extended to each and everyone of these returned
warriors."
Lendell H. Brown
“The Kinmundy Express” – Nov. 18, 1971 – “Army Warrant Officer Lendell H. BROWN,
27, son of Mrs. Ruth E. Sullens, Kinmundy, recently was assigned to the 101st
Airborne Division (airmobile) in Vietnam. WO Brown is an aviator in Company C,
101st Aviation Battalion of the division near Phu Bai. This wife,
Carole, lives in Peoria, Ill.”
Otis M.
Brown
“The
Kinmundy Express” – Sept. 30, 1954 – “Pvt. Otis M. BROWN, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Masel BROWN, Kinmundy, has reported to Brooke Army Medical Center for advanced
basic training at the
Medical
Training Center.
He will be prepared for duty with the Army Medical Service at the Army’s only
basic training center for medical corpsmen and combat aidmen. The Medical
Training Center offers intensive instruction infield medical care and hospital
ward management, and trainees make practical application of their instruction
during a field problem conducted for 5 days under simulated combat conditions.
The Medical Training Center is one of the 7 units of Brooke Army Medical Center,
the Army’s largest medical installation. The Center carries on virtually all
phases of professional and technical training in military medicine as well as
patient treatment and research.
Pvt.
BROWN entered the army last May.”
Ransom Deloss Brown
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – April 4, 1918;
Houston, Tex.,
Camp Logan; March 15, 1918
Dear Father and
Mother,
There
is no man that hath left houses and lands, or father and mother, brothers and
sisters, wife and children, for my sake, and the gospels, who will lose his
reward, but shall receive an hundredfold, now, even in this world, lands,
fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, and in the world to come eternal
life.
Looking backward over my life’s journey and thinking of the many homes that I
have visited, I think of my many friends and the many homes where I can go and
be welcome, where I can eat without money or price, and the hundreds of fathers
and mothers and brothers and sisters, who would nurse me through sickness, I
fell that all these things are mine because I have been brought up by Christian
parents who taught me the gospel of liberty which frees me from sin with all its
terrors. I never hated sin more than I do today, nor I never loved the things
which make up real manhood better. I am human and have not yet reached
perfection, but for the victories of the present, I am grateful and I am
pressing on toward the goal. I am praying that I may prove worthy of friends
and serve God, faithfully. My business shall ever be to so live as to meet the
approval of my best friend, Jesus the Christ, and to command Him to others. For
our highest service lies in this, that others may catch a glimpse of God through
our lives.
I am
getting my mail all O.K. now. I am glad that you all rejoice with me in the
sacrifice that I am now making hoping that it, may be the means of giving us all
many more blessings. I continue to be happy that I am able for this service,
but we never know what sorrow may come to us. Let us pray the Father to give us
grace to bear up in the midst of adversities. Let us not try to pull into our
todays what we may or may not be our tomorrows. May our todays be filled with
loving service, then our tomorrows will be joyful and beautiful and our dark
valleys will be fewer. With all the love my soul possesses, I close with a firm
faith in God to whom I commend you until it is ours to meet again.
Ransom Deloss
BROWN
Dean Brubaker
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 11, 1943 - "Receives Greetings: According to the
list received from the local Selective Service Board, John Wade BOYD of Salem,
Dean Russell BRUBAKER, Allen Lawrence BRASEL, and Harry Mike DOUDERA, of Alma,
have been ordered to report for induction along with 37 other men from this
county. John BOYD is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD of this city.
Nov. 8, 1945 – “PFC Dean BRUBAKER arrived home Oct. 28th after receiving his
discharge at Ft. Sheridan the day previous. He
is again with his wife and family in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Wesley JONES in this city. Dean entered the service Dec. 12, 1943, and shipped
overseas May 12, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France on
D-Day 28, and then into Germany. He started home Oct. 3, and landed in
Boston, Oct. 12th. He arrived
here Oct. 15th for a 9 day furlough. PFC BRUBAKER wears the Good Conduct Medal
and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 4 stars representing the
battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Germany.”
Dean Brubaker, Jr.
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 30, 1954 - "A/3C Dean BRUBAKER Jr., is home on a
14-day leave visiting his grandparents and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Wesley JONES and
daughter. He will report to Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, New Mexico."
Len Bull
“The
Kinmundy Express” - July 23, 1992 – “Sandy Branch West) ... a musical
concert at the Alma Christian Church Sunday evening. The presentation was
by Susan MAZANEK BULL and her husband, Len, who is a member of the Air Force
Band, stationed in Japan for the past 13 years, and are no enjoying a leave from
duty to visit home folks."
Kenneth D. Bundy
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 7, 1957 - "Pfc Kenneth BUNDY of Ft. Belvoir, Va., arrived home
Saturday night to spend a 15 day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Eunice BUNDY and
other relatives and friends."
June 27, 1957 – “Kenneth D. BUNDY, son of Mrs. Eunice E.
BUNDY, Kinmundy, recently was promoted to specialist third class at
Ft. Belvoir,
Va., where he is a member of the 79th Engineer Group. BUNDY, a
driver in Company B of the group’s 575th Battalion, entered the Army
in Dec. 1955, and completed basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood,
Mo. The 21-year-old solider
attended
Kinmundy-Alma High School.”
Dec. 12, 1957 – “Kenneth BUNDY recently received his
discharge from the army. He arrived here Saturday night for a visit with his
mother, Mrs. Eunice BUNDY and Bobby.”
William B. Bundy
“The
Kinmundy Express”
July 31, 1952 – “T. Sgt. and Mrs. Wm. B. BUNDY and daughter
arrived July 27th from Germany. They will spend their furlough at the home of
his mother, Mrs. Eunice BUNDY. He has been in Germany 6 years, and is enroute to
James Connley Air Base,
Texas.”
Sept. 4, 1952 - "T. Sgt. Wm. B. BUNDY left
Thursday for Waco, Texas, where he is stationed at the James Connelly Air Base.
His wife remained here for the present."
Forrest Burkett
"The Kinmundy Express":
Feb. 17, 1944 - "According to the list received from
the Selective Service Board, the following Kinmundy boys have been inducted into
the Army and Navy and will soon leave for camp along with 54 other men from the
Salem area. Leo Marion JOHNSON, William Sherman JEANS, James Junior TATE,
Forrest Eugene BURKETT, Charles PERGL, Walter Earnest McHATTON, Melvin GEILER,
and Roy Edward MILLER."
Sept. 7, 1944 - "The Lewis BURKETT family celebrated
the birthday anniversaries of Lewis BURKETT and his son, Gene BURKETT, also the
home coming of another son, Forrest BURKETT, U.S. Army, Sept. 3rd with a family
dinner. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Lewis BURKETT, Mr. and Mrs. Glen
CURRY, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond SAPU and children, Janice, Helen and Brenda, Mrs.
Clyde FITZGERALD and son, Louie, Forrest BURKETT, Gene BURKETT, Bob BURKETT,
Betty BURKETT, Donna BURKETT, Rosemary BURKETT, Mary O'BRYANT, Billy O'BRYANT,
Miss Helen CURRY and Mrs. George MAYER. Afternoon visitors included Mr.
and Mrs. Fred BURKETT, Mrs. Rolland BARBEE and children, Janice and Patty,
Claribel MERRITT, Eva MERRITT, Layman BURKETT and Ula BURKETT."
Sept. 14, 1944 - "Pvt. Forrest BURKETT of Scott Field, was home one day
visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis BURKETT."
Dec. 7, 1944 -
"PFC Forrest BURKETT returned to camp in
California. Forrest is a tail gunner on a B-24."
Richard
Burkett
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 21, 1969 - "The Sarah BURKETT family met in the home of
her son, Mr. and Mrs. Gene BURKETT and enjoyed a dinner given in honor of their
son, Richard, who will be leaving for Vietnam next week."
Aug. 13, 1970 – “S/4 Richard BURKETT Receives Award: Army
Specialist Four Richard G. BURKETT, 21, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gene E. BURKETT,
Route 2, Kinmundy, Ill., recently received the Bronze-Star Medal near An Khe,
Vietnam. Spec. BURKETT earned the award for outstanding meritorious
service as a member of the 4th Infantry Division's 4th Military Police Company
in Vietnam. During the same ceremony he received the Army Commendation
Medal for meritorious service in Vietnam. The specialist entered the Army
in March 1969, and was stationed at Ft. Gordon, Ga., before arriving overseas."
Robert
"Bob"
Burkett
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 27, 1952 – “(Miletus) Pvt. Robert BURKETT who is in army training spent Sunday
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis BURKETT. His brothers and sisters and
families were present too."
Dec. 11, 1952 – “Following are a few more addresses of Service Men in
case you would like to send them a Christmas Card: …. Pvt. James R. BURKETT; 6th
Qm Bn, CCR, 6th Armd Div., Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.”
Sept. 2, 1954 – “Friends and relatives gathered at the home
of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis BURKETT for a basket dinner to welcome the return of their
son, Bob, who has been stationed in Korea. He returned home Tuesday.
Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Glenn CURRY of St. Elmo, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest
BURKETT and children, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond SOPER and daughters of Odin, Mrs.
Vera FITZGERALD and son, Louie, Mr. and Mrs. Junior PRATHER of Farina, Miss
Donna BURKETT of Champaign, Mr. and Mrs. Gene BURKETT and Richard, Mr. and Mrs.
Lewis BURKETT, Rosemary and Bob, Mr. and Mrs. Frank BURKETT and Opal, Mr. and
Mrs. Fred BURKETT, Mr. Laymond BURKETT, Mrs. Jesse JOHNSON, Mr. and Mrs. Ira
KRUTSINGER and Ralph, Mr. and Mrs. Xon HANKS, Mr. and Mrs. Ira MERRITT and
Keith, Mrs. Mary SHAFFER, Mrs. Ben BUTTS and Wanda, all of Kinmundy, Mr. and
Mrs. Richard CRAIG and family of Salem, Mr. and Mrs. Clark KRUTSGINER of
Champaign, and Oscar and Delbert BURKETT of Farina. Herschel COPPLE called
in the afternoon.”
Virgil Burkett
"The Kinmundy Express"
March 11, 1943 - "S2/c Virgil BURKETT returned to his
station after spending a 10 day furlough with his parents Mr. and Mrs. Frank
BURKETT."
Nov. 25, 1943 - "Here’s a nice letter from Virgil BURKETT, F 2
c of the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Walker. And I just imagine that Virgil has
seen just a little action. Here is what he says: I want to thank you and all who
make it possible for we boys in the service to receive your paper. I know I
should have written you sooner, but just never got around to it. I know we enjoy
reading it very much. I have been in the service almost a year now and out of
that year I have seen seven months sea duty. I have seen quite a lot of the
world and expect to see more soon. We have had nothing but emergency leaves. I
sure would love to see all you people back home, but I guess it is impossible
now. If you have someone in the service, which I know you have, and most people
have, be sure and write to them often. It is hard to express how much they enjoy
getting letters. I read the letter that Major BROOM wrote in the last issue that
I received. It was a very nice letter and is just like he said. I don’t think it
will be too long until we all will be back home again. Well Mr. VALLOW, I guess
that’s about all for now, except keep buying bonds and keep those letters
coming. Here’s hoping to see you all soon."
Dec. 14, 1944 -
"Here’s one from Virgil BURKETT, F1 c, who is sailing around on the U.S.S.
Walker. He says: Thought I would write a few lines as I am sending a Christmas
card. First of all, I want to thank you and all who make it possible for we
fellows to receive your paper. I don’t receive it very often, but that is no
fault of yours, I know. Anyway, I know it is greatly appreciated by us fellows.
Now to tell you a little about the Walker. We were with MacARTHUR when he
returned to the Philippines. We were under a quite a lot of air attacks and
believe the Walker did her share. One day the natives came to the ship to trade.
They seemed very happy that the Americans were back. They were clean and could
speak English. The weather there is quite warm and rains quite a lot. Well, I
guess that’s about all for this time, so here is wishing you A Merry Christmas."
Jan. 4, 1945 - "Virgil BURKETT CF1/c, who has been in the
South Pacific area for 22 months, came home Monday to visit his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Frank BURKETT."
Jan. 18, 1945 - "Virgil BURKETT left Saturday for
California to resume his duties on a destroyer."
Aug. 30, 1945 – “Guam, Aug. 16 - Virgil Guy BURKETT, 22, machinist’s mate,
second class, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank BURKETT, Kinmundy, Ill., serves aboard
the USS Walker, one of a 133-warship armada which helped to force the surrender
of Japan. Arriving on Japanese shores at a time when the enemy homeland already
was reeling under devastating carrier-plane blows, this destroyer not only
participated in the show down scene, as a screening unit for successive air
attacks but pumped it’s own main-battery shells into Jap targets. The crew had
witnessed the tide of battle recede from Tarawa to the Japanese mainland -
reminding the Japs to “Remember Pearl Harbor”. Tokyo’s promises a watery grave
all destroyers that approached her shores, human torpedoes, baka bombs, Kamikaze
pilots, and invulnerable defenses failed to materialize. The Walker operated
within 2 miles of Japan unopposed. Her battle record includes the operations at
Taraw, Wotie, Hollandia, Saipan, Tinian, Guam Leyte, Okinawa, and Kyushu.”
Wayne Bushue
Warren Buswell
“The Kinmundy Express” -
Listed from Jan. 1943 thru Jan. 1945.
Ben Butts
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 23, 1918 - Drafted Men - In Training Camps: Ben
BUTTS
Oct. 17, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France - Ben
BUTTS
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France - Ben
BUTTS
Feb. 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: In France - Ben
BUTTS
Darryl L. Butts
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 29, 1972 – “In Vietnam: Army Sergeant, Darryl L. BUTTS, son of
Pete Butts, Kinmundy, is near Cu Chi, Vietnam. The 25 year old soldier is
serving as Intelligence Sergeant with Headquarters Company of the 25th Infantry
Division's 3rd Brigade. He entered the U.S. Army in Feb. 1969, and was
last stationed at Ft. Huachuca, Ariz. He holds the Army Commendation
Medal. He received his B.A. Degree from the Southern Illinois University
at Carbondale in 1968. His wife, Barbara, lives in Carterville, Ill."
Dennis Butts
“The Kinmundy Express” – March 20, 1969 - "Sunday dinner guests with Mr. and
Mrs. Bill Butts were Mrs. Dale BUTTS and children, Champaign, Mr. and Mrs.
Charles BUTTS, Carlyle, a sister, Mrs. Ilene ADAMS, Paxton and Keith BUTTS and
friend, Mattoon, and a grandson, Dennis BUTTS who was wounded in Vietnam but is
now recuperating at Great Lakes, Mrs. Ilene QUALLS of Shattuc, was an afternoon
visitor."
Donald Butts
“The Kinmundy Express” – March 6, 1969 – “Mr. and Mrs. Bill BUTTS received word
of the hand and arm injury of their grandson, Donald L. BUTTS of Carlyle.
He was wounded in Vietnam. Mr. and Mrs. Larry BUTTS and baby of Mattoon,
were recent guests in the BUTTS home also Mr. and Mrs. Jiggs FINCKBOEN of Odin,
and Hursell BUTTS, Buckley, spent Saturday night with them. Sunday, Mr.
and Mrs. Frank BUTTS of Mattoon, visited the BUTTS family.”
Dwayne "Dean" Butts
"The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 2, 1952 - "Boys in Service: Dwain BUTTS -
Germany."
July 27, 1972 - Obituary of Dwayne "Dean" BUTTS: "He
was born near Kinmundy, Nov. 5, 1929, the son of William and Ethel FINCKBONE
BUTTS. he was a veteran of the Korean War and was an auto mechanic and a
carpenter by occupation. He married Jean SCHUMOCK, Oct. 19, 1964, in
Topeka, Kansas......"
Elmer Butts
"The Marion County Express Express" - Kinmundy,
IL:
Nov. 21, 1918 - "(Meacham News): Elmer BUTTS
returned to Camp Grant last Friday after spending a two weeks furlough with his
parents, Wm. BUTTS and wife, recuperating from a severe attack of influenza and
pneumonia."
Dec. 19, 1918 - "Fred COURSON and Elmer BUTTS are home
from camp."
Francis Butts
"The Kinmundy Express” – Oct. 2, 1952 - "Boys in Service: Francis BUTTS -
U.S.A."
George E. Butts
“The Kinmundy Express”:
March 8, 1944 - "Report for Examination: Dwight
ALEXANDER, Fred BOYD, Glen WHITE, Herschel KRUTSINGER, Albert CORRELL and George
BUTTS, of Kinmundy, and Richard GRAY and Roy Otis HINES of Alma, were asked this
week to report for the physical examination, preparatory to entering the armed
forces. In addition to these boys, there are 117 others from the Salem
district making a total of 125 for this area."
Apr. 20, 1944 - "Fred BOYD and George BUTTS left
Sunday night for Chicago to enter the army."
Nov. 22, 1945 – “Miletus: Sgt. George E. BUTTS, who is home from the
Philippines, and is spending a 45 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Pete BUTTS, and other relatives. He will report to camp in Texas after his 15
day furlough is up.”
May
2, 1946 –“Miletus (from last week): S.
Sgt. George BUTTS, who is stationed at Scott Field, spent the weekend with his
parents, Pete BUTTS and wife.”
Sept. 5, 1946 - "Miletus: S/Sgt. George E. BUTTS and
wife, of Scott Field, spent Saturday night with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Pete
BUTTS and family."
Jan. 31, 1952 – “T. Sgt. and Mrs. George BUTTS of
San Carlos,
Texas, are spending a furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Pete BUTTS.”
May 29, 1958 - "Mr. and Mrs. George BUTTS and family are visiting with
relatives in this vicinity. George is serving in the U.S. Army and is
expecting to go overseas in the near future."
Aug. 3, 1967 – “Senior Master Sergeant George E. BUTTS,
son of Pete Butts of Kinmundy, has received his second U.S. Air Force
Commendation Medal at Hickam AFB, Hawaii. Sergeant Butts was decorated for
meritorious services as a personnel supt. at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. He was
cited for his outstanding leadership and ability which contributed to the
success of his units’ mission. He is now at Hickam as a member of the Military
Airlift Command which provides global airlift for the nation’s military forces.
He served in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. Sgt. Butts
is a graduate of Kinmundy High School. His wife, Agnes, is the daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Ray Blackwell of Farina.”
Apr. 11, 1968 – “Senior Master Sergeant George E.
BUTTS, son of Pete Butts of Kinmundy, has helped the Military Airlift Command’s
61st Military Airlift Wing earn the U.S. Air Force Outstanding Unit
Award. Sergeant Butts, a personnel superintendent with a unit of the 61st
at Hickman AFB, Hawaii, will wear a distinctive ribbon as a permanent
decoration. The wing was honored for exceptionally meritorious service
during a one-year period, with particular emphasis on its support of military
operations in Southeast Asia. This is the fourth time that the 61st has
been son honored. The wing, with headquarters at Hickam, and its many
units located throughout the Pacific and Southeast Asia are charged with the MAC
airlift responsibilities in an area stretching from Hawaii west to Pakistan, and
from Japan to Antarctica. To date the wing has amassed more than 750,000
accident free flying hours, a record dating back to June 1946 which is
unsurpassed by any military organization. Sgt. Butts, a veteran of World War II, is a graduate of Kinmundy
Community High School. His wife, Agnes, is the daughter of Ray Blackwell of
R.R. 2, Farina.”
Nov. 7,
1968 - "Senior Master Sergeant George E. Butts, son of Pete Butts, RR 2
Kinmundy, has received his third award of the U.S. Air Force Commendation Medal
at Hickman AFB, Hawaii. Sergeant Butts was decorated for meritorious
achievement as a personnel superintendent at Hickam. He was cited for his
outstanding professional skill. The Sergeant, a 1947 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma
Community High School, was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations
during World War II. His wife, Agness, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ray
Blackwell, RR, Farina."
Jan. 16, 1969 – “Senior Master Sergeant George E.
BUTTS, son of Pete BUTTS, Kinmundy, has helped the first Military Airlift Wing
earn the U.S. Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. Sergeant Butts, a personnel
superintendent at Hickam AFB,
Hawaii,
with a unit of the 61st will wear a distinctive ribbon as a permanent
decoration. This is the 5th time that the 61st has won
the award. The wing, headquartered at Hickam, and its many units located
throughout the Pacific and Southeast Asia, are charged with the Military Airlift
Command's airlift responsibilities from Hawaii west to Pakistan, and Japan to
Antarctia. To date, the wing has amassed more than 800,000 accident-free
flying hours, a record dating back to June 1956 which is unsurpassed by any
military organization. The sergeant is a graduate of
Kinmundy
High School. His wife, Agness, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Blackwell of
Farina.”
Aug. 27, 1970 - "SMSgt. George E. BUTTS, Noncommissioned Officer
in Charge (NCOIC), Assignments Military Personnel Office, Aeronautical Systems
Division, has received the fourth oak leaf cluster to the Air Force Commendation
Medal. Sergeant BUTTS was cited for meritorious service as NCOIC of the
quality control section, Consolidated Base Personnel Office, 6100 Support Wing,
Tachikawa Air Base, Japan, from January 1969 through May 1970. During this
period, Sergeant BUTTS outstanding leadership and devotion to duty were
instrumental factors in the resolution of many personnel problems of major
importance to the Air Force. A native of Kinmundy, Ill., Sergeant BUTTS
was graduated from Kinmundy High School in 1943. He enlisted in the Air
Force in April 1944 and came to Wright-Patterson in June 1970. He has an
aeronautical rating of gunner. The son of Mr. Pete BUTTS, R.R. 2,
Kinmundy, Ill., Sergeant BUTTS is married to the former Agness M. BLACKWELL of
Farina, Ill. The Sergeant and his wife reside at 4023 New York Drive,
Enon, Ohio."
Feb. 21, 1974 - "U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant George E. BUTTS,
son of Pete BUTTS, R.R. 2 Kinmundy, Ill., received the Meritorious Service Medal
during his retirement ceremony at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. Sergeant
BUTTS, who retired with 30 years of service, was cited for his outstanding duty
performance as a personnel superintendent with the Base Consolidated Base
Personnel Office and as sergeant major for the 2750th Air Base Wing.
Sergeant BUTTS attended Kinmundy Community High School. His wife, Agness,
is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ray BLACKWELL, Rt. 1, Farina, Ill."
Nov. 30, 1995 - (From his obituary): "George E. BUTTS, 72, of
Enon, Ohio, a retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, died Friday, Nov.
24, 1995 in Hospice of Dayton. He was born Sept. 28, 1923, in Xenia, IL,
the son of the late Peter and Carrie (McELYEA) BUTTS. He served during
World War II in the Southwest Pacific as a B-24 tailgunner. He also served
during the Korean and Vietnam Wards, retiring as Deputy Chief Master Sergeant in
1974...."
Glen E. Butts
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 4, 1951 - "Glen BUTTS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS, who
recently was inducted into the army, is now stationed at Camp Breckenridge, Ky."
Dec. 27, 1951 - "Rec. Glen BUTTS of Camp Breckenridge, Ky, is
spending a 10 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS and
family."
May 8, 1952 – “Pvt. Glen E. BUTTS of Kinmundy is now
serving with the 7th Infantry Division in the west-central sector of
the front in North Korea. Despite a halt in large-scale actions, men of the
division move out daily in raiding and reconnaissance patrols against enemy
installations. Private BUTTS arrived in Korea on April 5 and is serving as a
truck driver in the Service Company. A graduate of Kinmundy H.S., he entered the
army last September and received basic training at Camp Breckinridge, Ky.”
Sept. 11, 1952 - "Pvt. Glen BUTTS, Kinmundy, Ill., recently spent
a 5 day vacation from Korea on a rest and recuperation leave in Japan. A
member of the 7th Infantry Division, he stayed in one of the finest hotels in
Japan and enjoyed many luxuries unobtainable in Korea. The leave is part
of the Army's policy to give the fighting soldier a rest from the rigors of
combat. Private BUTTS is a member of the 17th Regiment's Service Company.
He entered the Army last September and arrived in Korea in April this year."
Oct. 2, 1952 - "Card of Thanks: Pvt. Glen BUTTS who is with the
17th Infantry in Korea wishes to thank all those who sent him birthday cards.
They were very much appreciated. May God Bless all of you."
March 19, 1953 – PFC Glen E. BUTTS, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Ben BUTTS, was recently promoted to the grade of Corporal for his exemplary
performance of duty, according to word reaching the family from headquarters of
the 17th Infanctry. Glen has been in Korea for over a year and
reports that he will be withdrawn from there within the next few months."
June 25, 1953 – “Cpl. Glen E. BUTTS Home After Tour in Korea: Cpl. Glen E. BUTTS, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Ben BUTTS returned home Saturday after having spent 15 months overseas in
Korea. Glen was inducted Sept. 13, 1951, and received his basic training at
Camp Breckenridge,
Ky. After spending leave here, he was sent to Korea as a member of the 7th
Division, 17th Infantry Regiment. While in Korea, his duties
consisted of truck repairing with the 17th Infantry Service Company.
June 12 he arrived in
San Francisco,
and from there was sent to
Camp Carson,
Colo.
for separation. As for the future, Glen is undecided, but wants to spend some
time in Kinmundy resting and meeting some of his old friends.”
Apr. 22, 1954 - "Glen BUTTS reenlisted Monday for 3 years service in the
armed forces. he is stationed in Camp Carson, Colo."
Feb. 2, 1956 – “Pfc Glen BUTTS returned home Tuesday
from
Camp Carson,
Colo., where he received his discharge from the U.S. Army.”
Harold B. Butts
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 29, 1943 - "Pvt. Harold BUTTS is visiting his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS."
Dec. 20, 1945 – “PFC Harold BUTTS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS, arrived home
Dec. 8, after receiving his discharge the same day at Camp Grant. Harold entered the
service Feb. 17, 1943, and shipped overseas Aug. 20, 1943, landing in Oran
Africa. From there he went to England, then France, Belgium, Luxembourg,
Germany, and then back to France. He started home Nov. 20, and landed at
Boston on Dec. 1. PFC Harold
wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon and the European Theater Ribbon
with 3 stars representing the campaigns of Central Europe, Ardennes and Rhineland. Harold and his
father, who is a veteran of World War I, are very busily engaged in conversation
now as they both traveled some over the same territory.”
Dec. 27, 1945 – “PFC Harold BUTTS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS, who received
his discharge, Dec. 8. He served in the European Theater.”
Melvin R. "Sarge" Butts, Sr.
“The Kinmundy Express”
- Aug. 25, 1994 – “(From his obituary) …. He was born Oct. 20,
1925, in Meacham twp., Marion Co., IL, the son of Cecil and Lucille (FINCKBONE)
BUTTS…….He was a former employee of don Gesell Well Service, Kinmundy, and was a
U.S. Army Veteran of World War II.”
Orien Butts
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
June 6, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men - In
Training Camps - Orien BUTTS
March 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Orien BUTTS
Orion Junior Butts
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Apr.
17, 1947 - "Miletus: We are rejoicing to know that so many of our boys are
returning from overseas: Lavern YATES arrived home March 24th, Francis
KRUTSINGER, April 5th; Charles BLOMBERG, last week, all from Honshu Honshu
Island, Japan. Douglas GOODWIN arrived home April 7th from Philippines and
Junior BUTTS and Walter BRIMBERRY, April 14 from Hawaii."
Apr. 24, 1947 - "PFC Junior BUTTS and PFC Walter
BRIMBERRY Home: PFC Junior O. BUTTS was inducted in the U.S. Army Air Force
April 25 at Fort Sheridan, and was sent from there to Amorilla, Texas and
received his training there. July 1st was shipped to Lowry Field, Denver,
Colo., and entered Aeroplane Mechanic School After graduating from school
was sent to Hamilton Field, Calif., and shipped overseas to Hawaiian Islands and
arrived home on April 14. Is spending terminal leave with his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Orion BUTTS. He will receive his discharge May 2. PFC
Walter BRIMBERRY is also home on terminal leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Roley BRIMBERRY. These two boys entered the service on the same day,
trained together, went to the same school, was shipped overseas and arrived home
the same day."
Pete Butts
“The Kinmundy Express” - May 8, 1980 - (From his obituary): "....
He was born Feb. 28, 1897 in Marion county, son of Ellis and Elizabeth LUTTRELL
BUTTS. He was a retired farmer and a veteran of World War I. He was
married three times, all preceded him in death. they were Carrie McELYEA,
who passed away in 1932, Adeline BONHAM, 1953, and Lila MARLOW, 1974....."
Robert "Bob" Butts
(U.S. Army - Korea)
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 21, 1953 - "Bob BUTTS left Monday morning for army
service."
July 2, 1953 - "(Miletus) Pvt. Bob BUTTS who is in an
army training camp in Missouri visited a few hours Sunday with home folks."
Aug. 13, 1953 - "Pvt. Bob BUTTS returned to Camp Ft.
Leonard Wood, Mo., one day last week after a 10 day furlough with home folks,
owing to the death of his step-mother, Mrs. Pete BUTTS."
Dec. 31, 1953 - "Pfc. Bob BUTTS is spending a furlough
with home folks."
Jan. 28, 1954 – “Pvt. Bob Dean BUTTS, 23, son of Mr.
Pete BUTTS, Kinmundy, graduated from the 8-week Engineer Equipment Repairman
Course, U.S. Army, Ft. Belvoir, Va. The course which Pvt. BUTTS completed
offers training in field and depot maintenance and repair of engineer equipment,
attachments and power tools. It is one of the many technical courses
conducted at the Engineer School for military personnel of the U.S. and
friendly nations."
Feb. 11, 1954 - "Pvt. and Mrs. Bob BUTTS left early
Monday morning for a camp in California. He will be leaving soon for
overseas duties."
Feb. 3, 1955 - "Bob BUTTS arrived home one day last week
after serving quite some time in the Army in Korea."
May 26, 1955 - "Bob BUTTS received his discharge from the Armed Services
recently and has employment near LaGrange, Ill."
Robert E. Butts
“The Kinmundy Express” – Nov. 18, 1982 - "Army National Guard Pvt. Robert E.
BUTTS, son of Janet L. BUTTS of Alma, Ill., has completed one station unit
training (OSUT) at the U.S. Army Infantry School, Fort Benning, GA. OSUT
is a 12-week period which combines basic combat training and advanced individual
training. The training included weapons qualifications, squad tactics,
patrolling, landmine warfare, field communication, and combat operations.
Completion of this course qualifies the soldier as a light-weapons infantryman
and as an indirect-fire crewman. Soldiers were taught to perform any of
the duties in a rifle or mortar squad."
(V-474) John W. "Bill" Caldwell -
World War II - Sergeant - 204th AAF Base Unit; honorably discharged
on Oct. 24, 1945;
"John W. Caldwell (Bill) was trained as a B-26 bomber mechanic
assigned to the 70th Bombardment Squadron of the 13th Army Air Force and served
over 2 years in Pacific war zones including Fiji, the Solomon islands, the
Gilbert islands and Guadalcanal. The Squadron was actively involved in the
crucial battle for the lower Solomon's, the Battle of Midway, and then
Guadalcanal. The 70th was singled out for commendations by Generals McArthur,
Marshall and Admiral Halsey for their bravery and ingenuity to keep the
bullet-riddled bombers in the air in support of critical missions. After 25
months deployed, he returned to the Alma area where he married Martha Mulvaney,
raised 4 children, and engaged in farming and then retired after a long career
at Southern Illinois University School of Dentistry in the Maintenance
Department."
Kenneth Paul Caldwell
(V-26) Paul Caldwell and his wife,
Rada (Garrett) Caldwell
Ford - Spring 1944. (Paul was killed in WWII.)
"The Kinmundy
Express"
Oct. 12, 1944: "Pvt. Kenneth Paul Caldwell,
Alma Lad, Dies From Wounds Received in Action in Germany":
A telegram was received by Mrs. Paul
Caldwell of Alma Friday morning, stating that her husband, Pvt. Kenneth Paul
Caldwell, had been seriously wounded in action in Germany, on Sept.
17th. On Monday morning she received another telegram stating that her husband
had died of wounds on Sept. 17th. This was a shock to the community of Alma as
well as our own community as he was well known here. Kenneth Paul, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Oscar Caldwell, was born March 3, 1911, on Zion Prairie in
Foster twp. On March 31, 1934, he was married to Miss Rada Garrett, daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Selby Garrett. After their marriage, they lived a short
while in Vandalia where Paul was employed by the Hayes Bros. Hatchery. Then
they moved to Alma where he was employed as a clerk in the Wilson Store and the
Rainey Store. In 1941, he assumed the management of the C.A. Glore Lumber Yard,
which position he held when he entered the services of his country. He was
inducted into the army on Dec. 29, 1943, was shipped overseas, landing in
England on July 1st. Here he remained until July 21st when he crossed the channel into France. He
was a member of the infantry. Besides his beloved companion and parents, he
leaves 2 brothers, PFC Loren Caldwell in the Southwest Pacific, and Marion of
Wilmington, Ill. After reaching England, Paul wrote to his wife that he had
been converted and was leading the life of a true Christian. He was a member of Kinmundy Lodge No. 398,
A.F. & A.M., and his will be the first gold star to be put upon the service
rolls of the lodge. The whole community extends heart-felt sympathy to the bereaved
relatives."
Ted Caldwell
“The Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 11, 1943 - "(East Zion) Home on Furlough: Pvt.
Ted CALDWELL from California is visiting with his father, Jamie CALDWELL."
Sept. 28, 1944 - "(Arnold Chapel) Kitchen Shower: A
Kitchen shower and charivari was held at the Cleve McWHIRTER home for Mr. and
Mrs. Ted CALDWELL."
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Ted CALDWELL"
(V-312) Clyde Bradley Camerer
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. –
April 25, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Volunteers -
Those who are on the seas: Dr. Clyde B. CAMERER, Lieut. Commander
May 8, 1919 - "Arrives in Philadelphia: Lieutenant
Commander, Dr. Clyde B. CAMERER, arrived last Friday from Philadelphia where he
is now stationed, being attached to the U.S. Marine Corps. He came to
visit his father, Dr. J.D. CAMERER, who is in poor health as a result of
influenza during the past winter."
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 10, 1934 - "Visits Former Home: Mrs. Clyde B.
CAMERER, who has resided at Long Beach, Calif., the headquarters of the Pacific
Fleet, arrived in Kinmundy Saturday evening to visit her sisters, Mrs. Walter S.
PRUETT and Mrs. Huldah STEUBER HENSON, and their families. Mrs. CAMERER
visited her sister, Mrs. Minnie STEUBER LOCKHART in Dunsmuir, Calif. before
coming east, and from here will go to Ridgefarm to visit her other sister, Mrs.
E.M. SCHERMERHORN. she will meet her husband, Dr. CAMERER, who is Senior
Medical Officer on the U.S.S. Tennessee, in New York City, May 30, and will be
there when the President reviews the fleet, May 31. Mrs. CAMERER was
always a social favorite in Kinmundy and is being most cordially welcomed by her
many friends."
Oct. 23, 1941 - "Captain and Mrs. CAMERER Visit
Here: Capt. and Mrs. Clyde B. CAMERER spent yesterday and last night here with
Mrs. CAMERER's sister and brother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT. They
tried to see as many of their old friends as they possibly could. Clyde,
as we know him, holds the rank of Captain in the Medical Corps, U.S. Navy.
He has been stationed in Manilla for the past year where he has been in charge
of a hospital. They left this morning for Washington, D.C. where Capt.
CAMERER will confer with officials and will go from there to Parris Island,
S.C., where he will supervise the building of another hospital unit. He
expects to be there for at least 2 years."
May
10, 1945 – “Relatives and friends here have received word of the promotion of
Capt. Clyde Bradley CAMERER, medical director of the U.S. Navy, to the rank of
Rear Admiral. Admiral CAMERER was born and reared in Kinmundy, the only son of
the late Dr. and Mrs. J.D. CAMERER, and a grandson of the late Dr. BRADLEY, a
former resident of this community. Admiral CAMERER has spent 41 years in the
Navy and traveled to almost all parts of the world. Recently, a hospital at
Parris Island, South Carolina, was erected under his supervision. He was then
sent to the Great Lakes Naval Station. About 2 months ago, he was sent to the
west coast and is now in the Philippines. Mrs. CAMERER is a sister to Mrs. W.S.
PRUETT of this city. Admiral and Mrs. CAMERER spent a few days here recently
while they were enroute to the West Coast.”
Apr. 25, 1946 - "Rear Admiral and Mrs. Clyde B.
CAMERER arrived here last Wednesday to visit with Mrs. CAMERER's sister, Mr. and
Mrs. W.S. PRUETT. Rear Admiral CAMERER left Saturday for the Naval Medical
Center at Bethesda, Md., where he will report for further orders. Rear
Admiral CAMERER is the son of the late Dr. J.D. CAMERER, former residents of
this city. He was graduated from the St. Louis University School of
Medicine in May 1909, and the following October entered the service of the U.S.
Navy. He has served in all parts of the world and has taken several
post-graduate courses. Since 1912, he has specialized in Eyes, Ear, Nose
and Throat. During World War I, he served with both the Atlantic and
Pacific Fleets, on Transports and with the marines. AT the close of the
war, he accompanied the Root Commission to Russia. After his return to the
states, he entered the Naval War College from which he graduated. He then
served on the Hospital Ship Mercy, on the Battleships West Virginia and
Tennessee, as well as on the medical staff of several Destroyers. In 1940,
he was again sent to the Philippine Islands where he was placed in command of
the U.S. Naval Hospital at Canacao. Soon afterwards, things began to get
pretty warm there and he was brought back to the states in 1941 and sent to
Parris Island, S.C., and placed in command of the Marine Hospital there.
While there, he planned and supervised the enlarging of the hospital. In
1944, he was sent to Great Lakes, Ill., where he served as Medical Officer of
the 9th Naval District. In 1945, he was transferred to Honolulu as Medical
Officer of the 14th Naval District. Here his duties were many. He
did quite a bit of Medical Inspection Duty in China, the Marshall Islands, the
Philippine Islands, Hawaii and many other places. His staff processed all
the war prisoners in their district. He was detached from active duty on
April 6th and recommended for the Legion of Meri, which will probably be
presented him while in Washington, D.C. Clyde, as he is known by his older
friends, came up through the ranks. Early in 1945, he was promoted to the
rank of Rear Admiral, M.C. There are only five men of this rank in the
entire navy. So now, after spending his enter career of 37 years with the
U.S. Navy, Clyde plans retiring this year. He says he and Mrs. CAMERER
will reside on the west coast where he has some interests. An yet, he
can't forget his old hometown. So more than likely, his time will be
divided between California and Illinois."
(V-336) Mancil Earl Cantrell
(V-335) Mancil Earl Cantrell
- Ship he served on WWI
(V-337) Melbourne Cantrell
in WWII
John Carman
“Marion County Express”
- Kinmundy, Illinois - March 29, 1918
Fort Monroe, Va.; March 12, 1918
Dear Aunt and Grandparents:
Received your most welcome letter in the
8 o'clock mail last night and sure was glad to hear from you, Sorry to hear that
you are not feeling as well as I would wish, and I hope you are O,K. before
long. Thunder, did you ever see me feeling punk at a very long stretch?
Well, I don't know a book full about his
war, but have a presentiment that it has just a short while to go, and I only
hope that Private MUTCH is right. Yes, you all have a great deal in this,
but try and look on the sunny side of it. Just think what we will be able
to tell those after us, and how brave they will think of us, even as I always
thought of dear old granddad. In '62 he saw it was his duty to fight for
his country, and now we see it just as he did. Of course, war is dirty
business and here's hoping we none of us will have to go over. Don't worry
about Frank and I any more; we will come out all O,L.
Edward has written to me twiece, I
believe, but I will have to hand it to Mamma and Lillian, Lillian especially, as
she writes me oftener than Mamma does, and she never forgets a thing of interest
to tell me. Don't pay a big of attention to your spelling, for I don't as
I am more than glad to hear from you in any form. You bet I know what you
all mean. I sent Cloe a picture, but they were not good, so I did not send
a lot around, but am going to have more taken soon and will give you all one.
Oh, gee, did you ever hear of me being a good boy very long at a time?
Yes, I firmly believe all will come out all right, and when I get out of this am
going to settle down as a good civilian and don the uniform of U.S.A. no more.
Ha, how is that for high-brow? Oh, I am not so young; was 19 last
birthday, but feel older. I sure will be right there if I do as you wish,
so will do as near as I can.
I am afraid that this letter deals
more between you and I, aunt, and not enough with grandpa and grandma, but be
sure and kiss them both for me, and then have one or the other kiss you for me,
too, see? Think you can do that correctly.
Say, tell grandpa that there is one
of the Civil War forts here and there are a great many relics of that time here
now. Fort Wool, which is our artificial island and was started by General
Lee, is about a mile off our beach. This is some country. The same
day I have seen it hot, cold, rain, snow, and then turn around and blow sand in
my eyes for watching it. Grandpa wouldn't know these forts today for they
are so much different. Can't see a gun anywhere, but there is a lot of big
mounds and inside of them are the guns, running from a 3 inch to a 13 inch
rifle. We have one of those old Spanish cannons too that we used to talk
of, made of brass. I'll be doggone, if this government hasn't gone to a
lot of trouble and expense just to kill people, and I'll say that I have done
more work just to get into a fight than I ever done before.
Well, I have just about said it all, so
will have to bring this to the goodbye point. As before, your loving
nephew and grandson.
Private John CARMAN; Bat. A, 2nd T.M. Ba., Fort Monroe, Va.
(V-126) Marvin Carter
William M. Carter
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 13, 1944 - "Dies
of Wounds": "Mrs. Merle KLINE south of town has received word of the death of her
brother, Pvt. Wm. R. CARTER, 24, son of Mr. and Mrs. John CARTER, of Johnston
City, Ill. Pvt. CARTER was wounded Dec. 8th in Italy and died the same day
according to the telegram received here by his parents. He has been in the
army since March 24, 1941 overseas for eight months and in Italy for three
months. Pvt. CARTER was a anti-aircraft gunner in the armored division of
the field artillery. We extend our deepest sympathy to this bereaved
family in this dark hour."
June 30, 1949 - "Mr. and Mrs. Hugh GILLEY, of Chicago,
spent Saturday night with Mr. and Mrs. Merle KLINE and family. On Sunday
the GILLEYs and KLINEs along with Mrs. Maggie KLINE motored to Johnston City
where they attended the services for William CARTER brother of Mrs. KLINE and
Mrs. GILLEY. Mr. CARTER was killed in action in Germany."
Scott Casey
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 29, 1985 - "Airman M. CASEY, son of Howard G. and Donna R. CASEY of Rural
Route 1, Alma, Ill., has been assigned to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, after
completing Air Force basic training. .....The airman will now receive
specialized instruction in the aircraft maintenance field. He is a 1981
graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, Kinmundy, Ill."
Oct. 10, 1985 - "Airman 1st Class Scott M. CASEY, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Howard G. CASEY of R.R. 1, Alma, Ill., has graduated from the
U.S. Air Force aircraft maintenance course at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas.
During the course, students were taught the aircraft maintenance fundamentals to
repair and service one and two-engine jet aircraft. Maintenance management
and documentation was also taught to assess aircraft readiness capability.
Graduates of the course earned credits toward an associate degree through the
Community College of the Air Force. CASEY is scheduled to serve with the
410th Organizational Maintenance Squadron at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Mich.
He is a 1981 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma H.S., Kinmundy, Ill."
Clarence Seymore "Jack" Chance
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
Seymour CHANCE
Sept. 11, 1919 - "J.R. CHANCE and wife of this city have
received a message stating that their son, Seymore, had landed from overseas and
would soon be home."
Del Chance
"The Kinmundy Express" - July 5, 1979 - "(from his wedding
article)... Del CHANCE (previously) served as a specialist fourth class in
United States Army Air Defense."
Clarence Seymore "Jack" Chance with his son, Darrell Chance
(V-148) Darrell Chance
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 11, 1960 - “Pvt. Darrell D. CHANCE, son of Mr. and
Mrs. C.S. CHANCE, has recently received a promotion to PFC. He sent to Engineer
Foreman School for 8 weeks at Ft. Leonard Wood,
Mo.,
and is now a combat construction specialist in 299th Engineer
Battalion in Heoehst, Germany.”
June 22, 1961 - "Darrell CHANCE in Germany: Army
Specialist Four Darrell D. CHANCE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence S. CHANCE, route
3, Kinmundy, participated with other personnel from the seventh U.S. Army's
299th Engineer Battalion in April Shower, a command post exercise in Germany,
June 2-9. The exercise was designed as a study of organization,
displacement of units, communications and logistics. All U.S. corps and
divisions within the Seventh Army participated at command levels. During
April Shower control staffs fed problems and situations involving the activities
of a simulated aggressor-force to the participating commands. these units
then took the necessary action. Specialist CHANCE, a truck driver in
Company B of the battalion, regularly located in Hoscht, entered the Army in
November 1959, completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and arrived
overseas last June. The 25-year old soldier is a 1954 graduate of
Kinmundy-Alma Unit District High School. Before entering the Army, he was
employed by the A.O. Smith Corp., in Granite City."
Nov. 23, 1961 – “Army Specialist Four Darrell D. CHANCE, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Clarence S. CHANCE, Route 3, Kinmundy, recently participated in Exercise
Brandy Wine, a field training exercise involving some 26,000 troops at V Corps,
Germany. The exercise was conducted to train small unit leaders and test the
combat readiness of participating units. Specialist CHANCE and other members of
his unit maneuvered against an “Aggressor” force. They were supported in the
exercise by atomic-capable and conventional artillery and other combat and
logistical support elements of V Corps. CHANCE is a combat construction
specialist in the 299th Engineer Battalion’s Company B, which is
regularly located in Hochst. He completed basic combat training at Fort Leonard
Wood, Mo. The 25-year old soldier is a 1954 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High
School.”
(V-67) Harold Chance
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 24, 1943 - "Harold CHANCE went to Chicago
Thursday night for his last army exam. Harold passed and will leave July
2nd for camp."
Sept. 30, 1943 - "And last week we received a letter
from Harold CHANCE who is stationed down in Missouri. For some unknown
reason, his letter was misplaced and we can't find it high or low. But the
jist of his letter was thanking us for the paper and stating he liked his work
fine. He said he didn't have to work near as hard as he did on the farm,
especially if the sergeant wasn't around. And he said to tell his friends,
'hello'."
Apr. 20, 1944 - "Pvt. Harold CHANCE is here for
furlough with his parents, Seymore CHANCE and family."
Apr. 27, 1944 - "Pvt. Harold CHANCE returned to his
camp in Missouri Thursday."
Jan. 18, 1945 - "Pvt. Harold CHANCE returned to camp
last Friday, and his brother, James, also left the same day to be inducted into
the army."
Feb. 22, 1946 - "Swift School: Harold CHANCE, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Jack CHANCE arrived home Sunday night, after receiving his
discharge. He served 3 years in the army."
March 7, 1946 –“T5 Harold CHANCE, son of Mr. and Mrs. C.S. CHANCE, residing
northwest of this city, arrived home Feb. 24, after seeing action in both
theaters of war. Harold entered the service
June 18, 1943 and took basic at
Camp Crowder, Mo. in the Signal Corps. He shipped overseas Feb. 11, 1945,
landing in France. From there he went into Germany, then back to France, where
he shipped for Luzon. From there he went to Japan. He left Japan the latter
part of January and landed in Seattle, Wash. From there he went to
Jefferson Barracks, where he received his discharge Feb. 24. T5 CHANCE wears
the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the
European Theater Ribbon with 1 star representing the campaign of
Central Germany, the Philippine
Liberation Ribbon; the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon and the Distinguished Service Unit
Citation awarded for service in Central Germany. As to his future, Harold says
he is undecided as to what he will do.”
(V-46) James Chance
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 18, 1945 - "Pvt. Harold CHANCE returned to camp
last Friday, and his brother, James, also left the same day to be inducted into
the army."
Jan. 18, 1945 - "Buddy ROBNETT, James HALL, and
James CHANCE left Friday night for Chicago, where they were inducted into the
army."
March 15, 1945 - "Kinmundy Community High School
Notes: James CHANCE of the Navy was a visitor at school Monday afternoon.
James left some time ago and this is his first leave home."
May
16, 1946 –“James CHANCE, Fireman 1st Class, son of Mr. and Mrs. Seymour CHANCE,
arrived home last Thursday to spend a 30 day leave with his parents. James
entered the service Jan. 12, 1945, and received his boot training at Great Lakes. From there he was sent to
Shumaker, Calif., from there to Treasure
Island, then to PT Base 17, Philippine Islands, where he was stationed for the
past 13 months. He left the Philippines April 22, and landed on Treasure
Island, May 10th. After his leave has expired, he will report to Chicago for
reassignment.”
May 22, 1947 - Veteran listed as graduating from
Kinmundy Community High school in the Commencement program."
(V-484) In 1946-47, the following veterans returned to
Kinmundy High School to complete their high school education:
Vernon Zollar, James Chance, John Middleton, Ralph Jenkins, and Tommy Shreffler
Marvin Chandler
“The Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 27, 1944 - "(East Zion) Marvin CHANDLER of the
U.S. Navy, is spending his leave here with his wife and daughter, Sandra, and
other relatives."
Oct. 12, 1944 - "(Arnold Chapel) Marvin CHANDLER of
the Navy, spent a few days here with his wife and daughter, Sandra and parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Guy CHANDLER. His wife returned to New York with him."
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Bradley J. Charlton
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 12, 1988 - "Airman 1st Class Bradley J. CHARLTON,
whose mother and stepfather are Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. KLINE of Kinmundy, has
graduated from Air Force basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.
During the 6 weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission,
organization and customs and received special training in human relations.
In addition, airman who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate
degree through the community college of the Air Force. He is a 1985 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School."
March 24, 1994 - "Air Force Senior Airman Bradley J. CHARLTON has arrived
for duty in Kunsan Air Base, Kinsan City, South Korea. CHARLTON is the son
of Ron and Joan KLINE of 209 W. Third St., Kinmundy, IL. His wife, Tara,
is the daughter of Jim EAGAN of 7th St., Cheyenne, Wyoming. CHARLTON is a
1985 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, Kinmundy."
Nov. 3, 1994 - "Bradley J. CHARLTON, Kunsan Air
Base, Kunsan City, South Korea, has been promoted in the U.S. Air Force to the
rank of staff sergeant. CHARLTON, a vehicle maintenance supervisor, is the
son of Joan and Ron KLINE of Kinmundy. He is a 1985 graduate of
Kinmundy-Alma High School."
Apr. 20, 1995 - "Air Force Staff Sgt. Brad J.
CHARLTON has arrived for duty at Dyess Air Force Base, Abilene, Texas.
CHARLTON, a vehicle body maintenance supervisor, is the son of Ronald J. and
Joan KLINE of 209 W. Third St., Kinmundy. His wife, Tara is the daughter
of James EAGAN of 518 S. Seventh St., Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Roberta Gidney of
Vernon, Texas. He is a 1985 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School in
Kinmundy."
Feb. 15, 2001 - "CHARLTON Graduates as
Non-Commissioned Officer: Air Force Tech. Sgt. Bradley J. CHARLTON has graduated
from the Air Force noncommissioned officer academy. The graduate
received instruction in advanced military leadership management theories and
responsibilities, oral and written communications skills, and physical fitness
fundamentals. The noncommissioned officer performed as a supervisor to
learn behavior concepts, problem solving, and counseling techniques relative to
the Air Force mission and organization. The sergeant learned to orientate
new service members to the principles, practice and tools necessary to function
in the Air Force. The Sergeant is a
vehicle maintenance supervisor assigned to the 7th Transportation Squadron at
Dyess Air Force Base, Abilene, Texas. He has served in the military for 13
years. CHARLTON is the son of Lena J. and Ronald J. KLINE of West Third
St., Kinmundy. He is a 1985 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, and
received an associate degree in 1987 from ITT Technical College, Evansville,
Ind."
July 1, 2004 - "Bradley J. CHARLTON, the son of
Joan and Ronald KLINE of Kinmundy, and the late Larry E. CHARLTON of alma, was
recently promoted to Master Sergeant. Bradley was a 1985 graduate of the
Kinmundy-Alma High School, and graduated after 2 years at ITT Evansville in
1987. In December of 1987, he entered the Air Force. He has had 2
tours to Korea and 2 tours to Saudi Arabia. Presently he is stationed at
Scott AFB, where he works at Headquarters Air Mobility Command Equipment and
Personnel Deployments."
Henry Charlton
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 1, 1943 - "Word has been received by relatives
that Pvt. Henry CHARLTON, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.T. CHARLTON, is now in Hawaii."
Sept. 21, 1944 - "(Wilson School) PFC Henry
CHARLTON, who has been in the Hawaiian Islands, for the past 2 years, arrived
home Monday evening, having been given an honorable discharge from the army,
owing to age."
John B. Charlton
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 23, 1967 – “John B. CHARLTON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett CHARLTON
of R.R. 1, Odin, Ill., has been promoted to airman first class in the U.S. Air
Force. Airman CHARLTON is a refrigeration and air conditioning specialist at
Sioux City Municipal Airport, Ia. He is a member of the Air Defense Command
which provides aerospace defense against hostile aircraft and missiles. The
airman attended Sandoval High School. His wife, Neoma, is the daughter of Mrs.
Mary PERKINS of R.R. 1, Alma, IL.”
(V-123) John D. Charlton
"The Kinmundy Express”
March 12, 1964 - "In National Guard: John David
CHARLTON left Saturday morning for Fort Jackson at Columbus, S.C. where he will
be stationed in the National Guard."
May 28, 1964 - "On Leave: Pvt. John David CHARLTON
of Camp Jackson, S.C., arrived home Friday for a 12 day visit with his foster
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sam LOWE. He has completed his basic training and
will be assigned to some other place upon his return."
June
11, 1964 - "Pvt. John David CHARLTON, left Thursday for Columbia, S.C. after
spending a 12 day leave here with Mr. and Mrs. Sam LOWE and Mr. and Mrs. Sammy
LOWE and daughters, and also in Salem, with Mr. and Mrs. Roy BASS."
July 14, 1966 - "John D. CHARLTON, John JONES,
and Larry RITTER returned here Saturday after 2 weeks training with the National
Guard in Wisconsin."
Dennis W. Chastain
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 7, 1980 – “Navy Seaman Dennis W. CHASTAIN, whose wife, Johnnie, is
the daughter of Bill and Florence JOHNSON of Alma, IL, has completed recruit
training at the Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, IL. During the 8 week
training cycle he studied general military subjects designed to prepare him for
further academic and on-the-job training in one of the Navy’s 85 basic
occupational fields. Included in his studies are seamanship, close-order drill,
Naval history and first aid. Personnel who complete this course of instruction
are eligible for three hours of college credit in Physical Education and
Hygiene. He joined the Navy in May 1980.”
Garold Chasteen
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 11, 1952 - "Chuck WHITE and Gerald CHASTEEN
left Dec. 1st for the U.S. Army. They are now in Fort Knox, Ky., for their
basic training."
Dec. 18, 1952 - "More Addresses of Service Men:
.....Pvt. Garold L. CHASTEEN, Co. A320M, TK Bn, CCB, 3rd Arm Div., Fort Knox,
Ky."
Jan. 15, 1953 – “Pvt. Gerald CHASTEEN of
Ft.
Knox
spent the weekend here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Morris CHASTEEN.”
Jan. 22, 1953 - "Pvt. Charles WHITE, Pvt. Bill
VALLOW, and Pvt. Gerald CHASTEEN all of Fort Knox, Ky., spent the weekend here
with home folks."
Feb. 5, 1953 - "Pvt. Bud DYER of Fort Leonard Wood,
Mo., Pvt. Gerald CHASTEEN, Pvt. Bill VALLOW, and Pvt. Charles WHITE of Fort
Knox, spent the weekend with their parents in Kinmundy."
Apr. 30, 1953 - Pvt. Gerald CHASTEEN left Sunday
for Camp Kilmer, New Jersey."
Feb. 22, 1990 - (From his obituary) .....He
was born Aug. 24, 1932 in Kinmundy, the son of Morris and Blanche (THOMPSON)
CHASTEEN. He was in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict stationed in
Germany....."
Lester B. Chasteen
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 30, 1960 - "Joins Army: Lester B. CHASTEEN left June 13 to
join the armed forces. He reports he will be stationed at Fort Leonard
Wood, Mo., for 8 weeks."
Aug. 25, 1960 - "RCTE1 Lester CHASTEEN came Friday night for a 2
weeks furlough with his mother, Mrs. Blanche CHASTEEN and family. He has
been stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo."
Sept. 15, 1960 - "RCT E1 Lester B. CHASTEEN after finishing his
training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., has been transferred to Fort Sill., Okla."
Dec. 1, 1960 - “Pvt. Lester B. CHASTEEN has been
transferred from Fort Sill, Okla to Neurnberg, Germany, where he will be
stationed for 18 months.”
Dec. 29, 1960 - “Army Pvt. Lester B. CHASTEEN, whose
wife, Patricia, and mother, Mrs. Blanche CHASTEEN, live in Kinmundy, has
completed 8 weeks of advanced individual cannoneer training at the Artillery and
Missile School, Fort Sill, Okla., Dec. 10. He entered the Army last June and
completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. The 23 year old soldier is a
1956 graduate of
Kinmundy
Alma High
School and was employed by the Salem Times Commoner before entering the Army.”
Aug. 31,
1961:
PFC Lester B. Chasteen, Btry B, 2nd How Bn. 34th Arty was
selected as the battalion’s Soldier of the month for July. In addition to his
superior knowledge of military and current events, Chasteen was cited for his
exceptionally outstanding on the job performance of duties. Pfc Chasteen is
stationed in Germany and the above is from his base paper.
March 15, 1962 - "Receives Promotion: Lester B.
CHASTEEN, whose wife, Patricia, lives on Route 3, Salem, Ill., recently was
promoted to Specialist Four in Germany where he is a member of the 34th
Artillery. A cannoneer in the artillery's Battery B in Nurnberg,
Specialist CHASTEEN entered the Army in June 1960, completed his basic training
at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and arrived overseas in December 1960. The
25-year old soldier, son of Mrs. Blanche CHASTEEN, Kinmundy, is a 1956 graduate
of Kinmundy-Alma Unit High School."
May 31, 1962 - “Mr. Lester CHASTEEN, arrived in
Kinmundy Saturday night after recently receiving his discharge from the U.S.
Army. He has been in the army 2 years of which 17 months were overseas duty.”
Marvin R. Chasteen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 9, 1961 - "In Army: Mr. Marvin CHASTEEN, son of
Mrs. Blanche CHASTEEN, entered the Armed Forces Monday, Jan. 30th and is taking
his basic training in South Carolina."
July 6, 1961 - "Pvt. Marvin R. CHASTEEN is now in
Goppingen, Germany."
Aug. 24, 1961 - "Army Pvt. Marvin R. CHASTEEN, 20, son of Mrs. Blanche M.
CHASTEEN, Kinmundy, recently was assigned to the 4th Armored Division in
Goppingen, Germany. CHASTEEN, a supply handler in Company A of the
division's 4th Quartermaster Battalion in Goppingen, entered the Army last
January and completed basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C. He is a 1960
graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, and was employed by the Brown Shoe
Company in Salem before entering the Army."
March 29, 1962 - “Army PFC Martin R. CHASTEEN, son of
Mrs. Blanche M. Chasteen, Kinmundy, recently participated in a combined arms
phase of the 5 week 4th Armored Division field training exercises in
the Grafenwohr-Hohenfels area of Germany. The exercises stressed the
ability of infantry, artillery, armor, and logistical support units to work
together under combat conditions. Training of this nature is designed to
maintain a constant state of combat readiness essential to a modern Army
deployed to maintain the defense of the real world. Chasteen is assigned to Company A of
the division’s 4th Quartermaster Battalion in Goppinen. He entered
the Army in Jan. 1961 and completed basic training at
Ft. Jackson,
S.C. The 20 year old solider is a 1960 graduate of
Kinmundy
Alma High
School. Before entering the army, he was employed by Brown Shoe Co.,
Salem.”
March 7, 1963 - "Participates in Annual Winter
Training: Army Pfc Marvin R. CHASTEEN, 21, son of Mrs. Blanche M. CHASTEEN,
Kinmundy, recently took part in his unit's phase of annual winter training with
other members of the 4th Armored Division at Grafenwohr, Germany. The
training tested the unit's combat readiness and included problems in night
fighting, communications, nuclear and special warfare. CHASTEEN, a supply
handler in Company A of the divisions 4th Quartermaster Battalion in Goppingen,
entered the Army in January 1961, completed basic training at Fort Jackson,
S.C., and arrived overseas in June 1961. He is a 1960 graduate of
Kinmundy-Alma High School."
Jan. 16, 1964 - "Marvin CHASTEEN, son of Mrs. Blanche
CHASTEEN, having received his discharge, arrived in Kinmundy Monday after
spending the past three years in the U.S. Army. 31 months of that time was
spent in Germany."
Gerald Cheadle
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 14, 1957 – “Pvt. Gerald CHEADLE of the U.S. Army, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Tom CHEADLE, has completed his basic training at Fort Carson, Colo., and
has been transferred to Aberdeen, Md., where he is attending Troop school.”
Oct. 17, 1957 – “Home on Leave: PFC Gerald CHEADLE, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Tom CHEADLE of St. Peter, is enjoying an 18-day leave with his parents, after
which he will report back for duty at Fort Dix, N.J., from where he will go
overseas for the remainder of his time with the U.S. Army. “Jerry” enlisted in
the army in Dec. 1956.”
Nov. 28, 1957 – “Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE received word that their son,
Pfc. Gerald CHEADLE has arrived in Heidelberg, Germany. “Jerry” is with the
51th Ord. Group. He expects to be overseas for the remainder of his enlistment
which will be 20 months.”
Oct. 9, 1958 – "Sp-4 Gerald CHEADLE attended World’s Fair at Brussels,
Belgium, last week: Sp/4 Gerald CHEADLE, RA17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE,
who is stationed at Sandhofen, Germany, with the U.S. Army toured the World Fair
at Brussels last week. He wrote his parents about the trip. His letter in part
is as follows: We, (Joe, my buddy and his wife) started out by driving up the
Rhein River toward Kain, Germany. The Rhein was very scenic. Along the Rhein
we passed places such as the Mouse Tower, the Larely Castles, which date back to
the 12th Century which are still standing. We saw the place where
the Americans made the first crossing of the Rhein River in World War II, also
other places which are too numerous to mention. We stopped at Bonn, Germany, to
visit Beethoven’s birthplace and museum. We also saw the government building of
Bonn. From Bonn we continued on our way. The next place we stopped was Kaln,
Germany. Kaln was badly bombed during the war. In Kaln is this huge Cathedral
which was built by the Romans over 2000 years ago. It was finished in 1890. I
went up one of the spires of the church. I guess I was about 300 feet above the
ground. From up there I had a good view of the city. From Kaln we headed due
west toward Brussels, Belgium. We had to go across the southern tip of
Holland. The minute we got into Holland things sure seemed different. The
people were friendlier than the Germans. The French and Belgians also were
friendly. I believe the Germans can’t forget that they lost two wars. In
Holland we visited the Netherland American Military Cemetery and monument.
While we were there, Joe (my buddy) ran across his uncle’s name on the wall
which listed him as one of the 1600 soldiers who rest in an unknown grave in the
cemetery. From there we went to the World’s Fair. I must say that the Fair was
fantastic. I could have spent a month there and still not see everything.
While there I saw the American, Belgium, Russia, Hungary, Sudan, Thailand,
France, Paris, Mexico, Italy, and the Vatican Pavillians and others that I can’t
name off hand. Not feeling impartial toward any country I thought that our
Pavillian was the best. I know that other countries are listing the U.S. as the
best. I would say that the Czechoslovakian Pavillian was second best, Great
Britain and Lukenburg also had a good Pavillian. In Russia’s I was
disappointed. All Russia did was boost about her government, scientist,
minerals, and of course the sputnik. She had more engines and machines in her
pavillian, that it made a person feel as if he just came home from a hard days
work in a slave camp. I collected a lot of junk from her pavillian which I’ll
send later. I bought a book of pictures of the Fair which are better than the
ones I took. From the Fair we went to the most wonderful city that I’ve ever
been in Paris. The country of France didn’t show me much, but Paris was
altogether different. It was expensive, but wonderful. While in Paris, we went
to the Eifel Tower, the Arc of Triumph and Napoleon’s Tomb, also the largest Art
Museum in the world, where I saw the original painting of Mona Lesa, the Venus
De-Milo who was supposed to be the best shaped woman in the world. It sure was
something. The Cathedral, Notre Dame, where Victo Hugo was supposed to have
gotten the inspiration to write, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”. Paris is a well
laid city, any boulevard will lead you out of the city. From Paris we went to
Versailles, France, where the treaty to end World War I was signed. It’s also
the site of Louis XIV Chaton, we then went to the Joan of Arc Territory. We
went to her birthplace also to a very beautiful church which was built as a
shrine to her. On our way there we went through Chtau-Theirry where one of the
hardest battles was fought in World War I. Again we ran across an American
Military Cemetery. It was here I found the name of Fred W. Schulte on the wall,
as an American Soldier from Illinois in an unknown grave in the cemetery. If I
am right Dale’s cousin in Vandalia spell their name that way. How about
checking it for me? All I can say is that my leave was terrific and wonderful.
Being away from the army post helped a lot. Love, Jerry. P.S. I forgot to
tell you about the A tomuim at the World Fair. So I’ll do that in my next
letter.”
March 19, 1959 – “Sp/4 Gerald L. CHEADLE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE
has recently been promoted to Sp/5 (Sergeant). Gerald is stationed at
Sandhofen, Germany. He entered the armed forces in Nov. of 1957 and a year
later was sent to Germany. He hopes to be back in the states in August.”
Dec. 10, 1959 -
"Sp. 5 Gerold L. CHEADLE of the U.S. Army arrived home last Friday after
completing 3 years of service. For the past 2 years he was stationed at
Mannheim, Germany. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE."
Lester Cheadle
“The Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 14, 1966 – “Mr. Lester CHEADLE, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Tom Cheadle, left Sunday for St. Louis where he was inducted into the army
on Monday morning after which he left for basic training. After completion of
his basic, he will go into officer training school.”
July 7, 1966 - "Lester CHEADLE left Thursday to return to his
base at Fort Jackson, S.C. after spending a 15 day leave here with his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE."
Sept. 1, 1966 - "Army Private Lester J. CHEADLE, 23, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Thomas P. CHEADLE, Route 1, Kinmundy, Ill., completed 8 weeks of
advanced infantry training at Fort Jackson, S.C., Aug. 26. He received
specialized instruction in small unit tactics and in firing such weapons as the
M-14 rifle, and M-60 machinegun and the 3.5 inch rocket launcher."
Dec. 22, 1966 - "O/C Lester CHEADLE fort Benning, Ga., and Miss
Patricia Niebrugge, Sigel, were visitors of the Harold B. and James JONES
families Sunday afternoon.
Apr. 20, 1967 – “PFC Lester CHEADLE, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Tom Cheadle, former Kinmundy residents, is stationed in Germany.”
March 28, 1968 - "Lester CHEADLE, who just recently
returned from Germany and Miss Pat NIEBRUTTE, Sigel, visited Mr. and Mrs. Harold
B. JONES Monday afternoon."
June 6, 1968 - "Mr. and Mrs. Martin H. NIEBRUGGE of Sigel, announce the engagement of their daughter, Patricia, to Lester J. CHEADLE of
Carlsbad, Calif., formerly of Kinmundy, Ill. Miss NIEBRUGGE is a 1963
graduate of Teutopolis High School and is employed at General Electric in
Mattoon. Mr. CHEADLE is a 1961 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School and
is a 1966 graduate of Western Illinois University with a bachelor of Science
degree. He served two years in the U.S. Army and one year in Germany.
He was recently discharged from the Army. Wedding plans are indefinite."
Mervin Cheadle
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Mr. Mervin CHEADLE and Merritt EBERHART of St.
Peter, have enlisted in the Navy, and left for Great Lakes, Monday, Nov. 27th,
where they will take their basic training."
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. these can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F. MOTCH -
Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M. Co, Camp
Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F. HOYT -
545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Infantry
Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc. Paul WEST -
U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T. Sgt. Marion M.
HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord. MAM Co.;
Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
Feb. 8, 1951 - "Card of Thanks: I want to thank the people of
Kinmundy, St. Peter and Farina for their letters and cards that I have received
while I am at Great Lakes. Mail call and "Chow" time are the best thing
for a recruit in the navy. Thanks a million. Marvin J.
CHEADLE."
Feb. 22, 1951 - "Mervin CHEADLE, S.A., has completed his Boot
Training and is now on the U.S.S. Hemminger, St. Helena Annex, stationed at
Norfolk, Va."
Aug. 2, 1951 - "Mervin CHEADLE, S.A., of Norfolk, Va., left
Monday for his navy base after spending a 15 day leave with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Tom CHEADLE, and family."
Oct. 18, 1951 – “Mervin CHEADLE, S.N. of the U.S. Navy,
has recently been promoted from S.A. to S.N. aboard the U.S.S. Hemminger,
Destroyer Escort, at Norfolk, Va. Incidentally, Mervin had his first experience
in being in the path of a hurricane. For two days and nights the Hemminger was
anchored at sea. Winds were up to 120 miles per hour strong. Mervin is the son
of Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE residing north of this city.”
June 12, 1952 - "Mervin CHEADLE, CSSN, met with an accident while
on board the USS Hemminger. He suffered a severe cut on his leg and is now
in the naval hospital at Norfolk,
Va. It will be some time before he can use his leg. Mervin is the
son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE."
Sept. 11, 1952 – “Petty officer 3rd Class
Mervin CHEADLE, U.S. Navy, is spending an 18 day furlough leave with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. T.P. CHEADLE. Mervin is stationed on a Destroyer Escort
and has done quite a bit of traveling the past year. He is due for Korean waters
in the near future.”
Jan. 15, 1953 - "Mervin CHEADLE, C.S.S.N., of Norlfolk, Va., U.S.
Navy, spent a 13 day leave with his parents. He returned to Norfolk Va.
Thursday."
May 27, 1954 – “Mervin CHEADLE of the U.S. Navy left
Thursday for his Navy base at Norfolk, Va. after spending 15 days leave with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE. He will be discharged from the Navy in
September.”
Ronald Cheadle
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 5, 1959 – “Ronald CHEADLE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom
CHEADLE has enlisted in the Marine Corps. He left Sunday for St. Louis. He
will fly from there to San Diego for his basic training. Ronald has a brother,
Jerry, who is with the armed forces and is stationed at Sandofer, Germany.”
May 7,
1959 - "Pfc. Ronald CHEADLE of the U.S. Marine Corps, arrived home Sunday
from San Diego, Calif., for a 2 weeks visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. T.P.
CHEADLE. he will then go to Memphis, Tenn. for further training."
Oct. 22, 1959 – “Pfc. Ronald CHEADLE of the Marine Corps,
who was stationed at Memphis, Tenn., has arrived home for a 15 day leave with
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE. When he reports back to duty it will be
to Camp New River, North Carolina for helicopter schooling.”
Sept. 14, 1961 - "Cpl. Ronald CHEADLE of the Marine Corps at
Jacksonville, N.C. came Friday to spend a 20 day leave with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Tom CHEADLE and Stanley."
Feb. 7, 1963 - "Cpl. Ronald CHEADLE of the U.S. Marine Corps, received
his discharge Feb. 1st at Jacksonville, N.C. He spent 4 years in the
Corps, most of it at Jacksonville. He is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom
CHEADLE."
Stanley T. Cheadle
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 13, 1962 - "Stanley T. CHEADLE, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs.
Tom CHEADLE, has enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He goes to St. Louis
Wednesday, from there he will go to San Diego, Calif., where he will take his
basic training."
Dec. 27, 1962 - "Stanley T. CHEADLE, who recently entered the
service reports he is not homesick but miss his friends back home and would
enjoy hearing from them. His address is: Stanley T. CHEADLE, Company No.
642, U.S.N.T.C., San Diego, 33, Calif."
March 7, 1963 - "Stanley T. CHEADLE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas
P. CHEADLE of Route 3, Kinmundy, completed recruit training, Feb. 21, at the
Naval Training Center, San Diego, Calif...."
Sept. 19, 1963 - "F.A. Stanley CHEADLE with the U.S. Navy at
Great Lakes, surprised his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE, with a weekend
visit. He returned to Great Lakes Sunday."
March 25, 1965 – “Mr. and Mrs. Tom CHEADLE and Mr. and Mrs. Wm. VERHOEKS
of Kankakee, returned home Saturday from a 3 months vacation at Carlsbad,
Calif. They visited their brother, Mr. and Mrs. Harry CHEADLE, and other
relatives there. The CHEADLES also visited their son, Stanley, who is stationed
at San Diego with the Navy. They were privileged to go through the U.S.S.
Ronquil Submarine of which Stanley is with the Enginemen Crew. On Feb. 19,
Stanley left for an 80 day trip in the Western Pacific. Mr. and Mrs. CHEADLE
enjoyed the mild weather in California, but it’s always nice to get back home.”
Jan. 2, 1964 – “FA Stanley CHEADLE left Christmas night
for
New London,
Conn. after spending a 20-day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Cheadle.
Stanley has completed a 12 week course in Engineman Schooling at the Great Lakes, and will now go to
Submarine school in New London, Conn.”
Aug. 12, 1965 –“Engineman Third Class Stanley T.
CHEADLE, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom P. Cheadle, of Kinmundy, is serving aboard
the submarine USS Ronguil, which returned to the United States July 23 after
extended operations with the Seventh Fleet in the Western Pacific.”
Sept. 1,
1966 - "Former residents" - "Engineman Third Class, Stanley T. Cheadle, USN, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Cheadle of Rt. 3, Kinmundy, is serving as a crewmember
aboard the submarine USS Ronquil, which is serving with the Seventh Fleet in the
Western Pacific. An attack submarine, Ronquil is one of the standard type
submarine and carries a large amount of electronic listening devices that enable
it to sound out enemy ships. With six 21 inch torpedo tubes for their armament,
the 269-foot Ronquil can speed at more than 17 knots while submerged.
Dec. 29, 1966 - "EN3 Stanley CHEADLE of the Submarine Ronquil of
the U.S. navy arrived home Thursday, Dec. 8th, having completed his 4 years in
the Navy. He spent the last 5 months in the far East, and took part in a
secret mission operation for the past 50 days. Stanley, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Tom CHEADLE, former Kinmundy residents, is making his home in Carlsbad,
Calif., where he and his brother, Gerald and Ronald have purchased an eight
apartment unit. He hopes to visit Illinois in a year or two."
(V-242b) Ervin Floyd Cheatum
"The Kinmundy Express"
March 4, 1943 - "E. Floyd CHEATUM, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM of Kinmundy is spending a 11 day furlough with his parents.
Floyd was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant. He is stationed in
Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. CHEATUM have another son, Francis, in the service,
having entered Feb. 25, 1943."
May 20, 1943 - "Cpl. Ralph JENKINS and Floyd CHEATUM
of Ky., spent Sunday here with relatives."
July 22, 1943 - "Floyd CHEATUM of Tenn. and Francis
CHEATUM of Texas are visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM."
Feb. 22, 1945 - According to a
release direct to us from the 12th Armored Division of the Seventh Army in
France Staff Sergeant Ervin F. CHEATUM, of this city, has been awarded the
Combat Infantryman Badge. This badge is awarded for satisfactory
performance of duty in ground combat against the enemy, and entitles the soldier
to $10 per month additional play. The badge is worn on the left breast,
above the service ribbons. The local soldier is a member of the 12th
Armored Division, commanded by General Roderick R. Allen, and has been overseas
three months. His unit is one of the newest on the front of General
Alexander M. Patch's American Seventh Army."
June 14, 1945 – “6th Army Group Germany - The city of Wurzburg, in southwestern
Germany, lay in ruins after receiving terrible blastings from the air. The
rubble-strew streets and gutted buildings were deceivingly quiet. But hidden in
doorways and behind walls, the enemy was waiting with machine guns trained on
advancing American doughboys of an infantry division. On the outskirts of the
city, Combat Command ‘A’ of the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division poised, ready to
act as trouble shooters in case Krauts proved difficult to root. A short time
later, the quiet was shattered as the well entrenched Germans poured round after
round of fire into the American infantry. Combat Command “A” moved in swiftly,
its advanced tank elements led by 1st Lt. Thomas F. JOHNSON. The tanks moved
from one infantry sector to another, blasting the stubborn enemy in one of the
last actions in crushing Germany. “I don’t know how many Krauts we killed or
captured in Wurzburg, but we didn’t take many prisoners”, Lieut. JOHNSON said.
“We just kept driving through the town, shooting at everything we saw.” The 7th
Army’s 12th Armored Division, a component of Gen. DONOVAN’s 6th Army Group, had
3 battalions - one of the tanks, one of the infantry, and one of field artillery
- in it’s hard hitting combat command ‘A’. The fighting unit is supported by
companies of medic, ordinance, and combat engineers. Among members of Combat
Command ‘A’ is T. Sgt. Ervin F. CHEATUM, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM of
this city.”
June 21, 1945 – “T. Sgt. Ervin Floyd CHEATUM arrived here Sunday to spend a 30
day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM. Needless to say,
this lad was certainly glad to get home again. Sgt. Floyd entered the service
on Oct. 20, 1942 and was trained in various camps in the States. He was shipped
overseas on Sept. 17, 1944, landing in England. From there he was sent to France
and then to Germany. On February 21, 1945, he was wounded in the right leg at
Henlisheim, Germany. He was then sent to a
hospital in Nacy, France, and from there to an English
Hospital on April 17th. He sailed from England May 17, landing in Boston on May
29th, where he was take to the Miles Standish Hospital. He remained
there a few days and was sent to the Winters General Hospital,
Topeka, Kan., where he is now a
patient. Sgt. CHEATUM wears the Good Conduct Medal, The Infantry Combat Medal,
and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars. He has a brother,
PFC Francis CHEATUM, serving in the army in France”
Frances Cheatum
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 4, 1943 - "E. Floyd CHEATUM, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM of Kinmundy is spending a 11 day furlough with his parents.
Floyd was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant. He is stationed in
Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. CHEATUM have another son, Francis, in the service,
having entered Feb. 25, 1943."
July 22, 1943 - "Floyd CHEATUM of Tenn. and Francis
CHEATUM of Texas are visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM."
June 21, 1945 – “T. Sgt. Ervin Floyd CHEATUM arrived here Sunday to spend a 30
day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM. Needless to say,
this lad was certainly glad to get home again. Sgt. Floyd entered the service
on Oct. 20, 1942 and was trained in various camps in the States. He was shipped
overseas on Sept. 17, 1944, landing in England. From there he as sent to France
and then to Germany. On February 21, 1945, he was wounded in the right leg at
Henlisheim, Germany. He was then sent to a
hospital in Nacy, France, and from there to an English
Hospital on April 17th. He sailed from England May 17, landing in Boston on May
29th, where he was take to the Miles Standish Hospital. He remained
there a few days and was sent to the Winters General Hospital,
Topeka, Kan., where he is now a
patient. Sgt. CHEATUM wears the Good Conduct Medal, The Infantry Combat Medal,
and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars. He has a brother,
PFC Francis CHEATUM, serving in the army in France”
Dale Cheeley
“The Kinmundy Express”
April 25, 1945 – “Omega: It was reported here last week that Dale CHEELY, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Forrest CHEELY, former residents of Omega, has been killed in
action.”
Feb. 17, 1949 – “Omega: Several from here attended
services held for Sgt. Dale CHEELEY whose body recently arrived from overseas.
Services were held at the Church of God at Salem with interment in the Christian
Church cemetery here.”
Alonzo Church
“The Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 23, 1942 - "Leave for the Army: Alonzo CHURCH,
Elwin INGRAM, Harold LEMAY, and Clyde SCHOOLEY left yesterday morning for St.
Louis where they had their final examination. Mr. CHURCH called his wife
last evening and said that he and INGRAM were in the Army now but said nothing
about SCHOOLEY and LEMAY. It was thought that LEMAY would fail to pass his
examination on account of poor vision. And so we add the names of a few
more boys to our ever growing list."
Nov. 1, 1945 – “S. Sgt. and Mrs. Alonzo CHURCH were here Thursday greeting
friends. At present, they are at home with Mrs. CHURCH’s mother, in Iola, since
Sgt. CHURCH received his discharge on Oct. 6. Being an attorney-at-law, upon
entering the service, April 22, 1942, Alonzo was assigned to the Counter
Intelligence Corps, Military Intelligence Service, War Dept. Throughout the
war, he has been stationed in Illinois,
Michigan, Ohio, and Oklahoma.
He was assigned to the Air Corps. He was discharged Oct. 6 at Patterson Field,
Ohio. We are not only happy to welcome Lonnie and his good wife back with us
again. But we are sorry to say that Lonnie says he hardly thinks that he will
re-open his law office in Kinmundy.”
Richard Clark
“The
Kinmundy Express” – Apr. 21, 1955 – “Pfc. Richard CLARK, son of Mrs. Bertha F.
CLARK, Kinmundy, is one of the 26,000 soldiers slated to participate in Exercise
Apple Jack during May at the Yakima Firing Center near Ft. Lewis, Wash. Apple
Jack will test the efficiency of infantry and support units in mountainous and
dessert terrain. The simulated use of atomic weapons will be one of the
conditions of the exercise.
CLARK,
a cannoneer with Battery B of the 2nd Infantry Division’s 12th
Field Artillery Battalion, entered the Army in Nov. 1953, and received his basic
training at
Camp Chaffee,
Ark. His wife, Zola, lives in
Tacoma,
Wash.”
William "Bill" Clark
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 14, 1954 - "Bill CLARK in N. Carolina: Marine Cpl.
William R. CLARK, son of Mrs. Bertha CLARK of this city, is attending an
eight-week course in baking at the Food Service School at Camp Legeune, N.C.
The course covers all phases of baking and the operation of various types of
baking machinery used commercially. The students also receive on the job
training in the post bakery and training in the field where baking is done with
improvised equipment."
June 21, 1956 – “William R. CLARK, son of Mrs. Bertha K.
CLARK, of Kinmundy, was promoted to Marine Sgt. on May 23, while with the 3rd
Marine Division in Japan. He is a baker assigned to Detachment 3, 3rd
Marine Regiment, a unit of the 3rd Marine Division. Before entering
the service, he attended Salem H.S., Salem, Ill.”
%20Curtis%20Claybaugh.jpg)
Curtis Claybaugh
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Jan.. 7, 1993 - "Airman 1st Class Curtis L. CLAYBAUGH has
graduated from Air Force training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.
During the 6 weeks of training, the airman studies Air Force mission,
organization and customs and received special training in human relations.
In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate
degree through the Community College of the Air Force. He is the son of Judith F. CLAYBAUGH of 519 S. Freemont St., Kinmundy.
The Airman graduated in 1990 from South Central High School, Farina, and
received an associate degree in 1992 from Kaskaskia Community College,
Centralia."
March 18, 1993 - "Airman 1st Class Curtis L. CLAYBAUGH of
Sheppard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls, Texas, has graduated from the telephone
and data circuitry specialist course. Students were taught electronic
principles, telephone instrument repair and installation, and telephone key
installation and repair. He is the son of Judith F. CLAYBAUGH of 519 S.
Freemont St. Kinmundy. The airman is a 1990 graduate of South Central High
School, Farina."
(V-486)
Claytor brothers
(from
Alma - 1934)
Allen J. Clements
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 5, 1964 -
“Staff Sergeant Allen J. CLEMENTS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence CLEMENTS of 47
W. Rulton, Phoenix, Ariz., has been decorated with the U.S. Air Force
Commendation Medal a Offutt AFB, Neb. Sergeant CLEMENTS was awarded the medal
for meritorious service as a missile engine technician at Offutt. He is
assigned to the 549th Strategic Missile Squadron which supports the
Strategic Air Command mission of keeping the nation’s intercontinental missiles
and jet bombers on constant alert. The sergeant is married to the former Myrtle
I. WILKINS, daughter of Mrs. Mildred WILKINS of Kinmundy, Ill.”
Jim Cobb
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 27, 1966 - "(Alma News) Jim COBB, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin COBB,
has enlisted in the U.S. Army and left last Monday for Fort Leonard Wood for
training. Also Kurt WILKINS is stationed there. He is the son of Mr.
and Mrs. Denzil GAMMON."
Apr. 13, 1967 – “Miss Vivian MILLER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leon
MILLER, Meacham twp, and Pvt. Jimmy COBB, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin COBB, Alma,
were married at 7:30 Monday evening in the Alma Christian church, Bro. Larry
Sutherland of Granite City reading the double rind ceremony. They were attended
by Mrs. Joan ALLEN, Kinmundy, and Mr. Joe WILKINS, Salem. Both bride and groom
are graduates of Kinmundy-Alma High School with the class of ’66. The bride has
been a student nurse in Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, and before being inducted
into the army, the groom was employed by the Staley Manufacturing Co., Decatur.
The couple left Tuesday for Fort Bliss, Texas, where Pvt. COBB is stationed.”
March 13, 1969 – “Mr. and Mrs. Jim COBB and son, Brian
Jay, returned last week from Okinawa after 18 months of service. In route to
New Jersey, they enjoyed a short visit with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin
Cobb of Alma, and Mr. and Mrs. Leon Miller of Kinmundy. Those calling at
the MILLER home to visit with Mr. and Mrs. COBB and to meet the new grandson
were: Mr. and Mrs. Fred MISELBROOK, Mr. and Mrs. David SHAFFER, Twila and
Richard, Mr. and Mrs. Roy NEAL, Mr. and Mrs. Curt MILLER and Tammy, Mr. and Mrs.
Herbert VANDEVEER, Mr. and Mrs. Guy SHAFFER, Mr. Frank HAMMER, Mr. and Mrs.
Marvin COBB and David, Mr. and Mrs. Leroy ALLEN and Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. Jim
EDDINGS and DeAnna, Mr. and Mrs. John SHAFFER, James and Charles, Mr. Ralph
MULVANEY, Mr. and Mrs. Rufus ADAMS, Mr. and Mrs. Erwin SOLDNER, Mr. and Mrs.
Herbert ANDERSON, Mr. and Mrs. Mike McGRAW and Brian, and Master Mike
GREENWOOD.”
May 29, 1969 - "Mr. and Mrs. Harry
SHREFFLER and Mrs. Pat SHREFFLER and daughters, Alma, called on Mr. and Mrs.
Reindl BAYLIS Tuesday evening, S.P./4 Jim COBB, Wrightstown, New Jersey called
on Mr. and Mrs. BAYLIS Thursday morning."
Eldon D. Colclasure
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 16, 1943 - "Pfc. Eldon COLCLASURE of Missouri,
was called here last week on account of the illness of his infant son, who is
apparently better at this time."
Jan. 27, 1944 - "Here’s one from T-S Eldon COLCLASURE, who is
doing radio work down in Florida. He says: I will write you again and tell you
of my change of address. We arrived here Sunday 16th after 6 days and 6 nights
on the trains. The trip had it’s good and bad points. The engineer was one of
those fellows who was cut out to punch cattle. Three times a day and once a
night he would test his breaks - breakfast, dinner, and supper. Then once at
night was from 9:05 until we went to sleep. Florida is a beautiful state.
McDill Field is a beautiful one. Just in case I forget, I would like to say a
word about that deer, or rather to the fellows who saw it. When I used to go
fishing or hunting alone, I saw many different kinds of animals rarely seen in
those parts. But a camera might clear up the debate. If some of those fellows
would take this advice I’ll be seeing a deer on the front page next Monday. So
much for that. It’s getting near time now that I must sweep and scrub the
aisle, so I had better close and get busy. Thanks a million for the paper. I
enjoy it more than a few words can tell. I’ll furnish the address if you will
furnish the paper. Mail is important. I don’t get too much. Incidentally if
anyone would like to become a war correspondent I would like to hear from them.
Keep up the good work Mr. VALLOW and luck to you through out the year.
Feb. 24, 1944 - "Promoted: We have received word
that T/5 Eldon COLCLASURE was promoted to Sergeant last week. He is
stationed in Florida. Congratulations."
March 9, 1944 - "Sgt. Eldon COLCLASURE of Florida,
is here for a visit with his wife and baby son."
March 23, 1944 - "Sgt. Eldon COLCLASURE returned to
his camp in Florida Saturday after spending a 15 day furlough here with his wife
and son. Sgt. and Mrs. COLCLASURE and son spent last week in Seneca with the
Sergeant's mother, Mrs. Belle COLCLASURE."
Eldon Colclasure
“The Kinmundy Express” – Aug. 22, 1963 - "Here’s
one from PFC Eldon COLCLASURE, who, we know, would much rather be here with his
wife and baby than out in California. He says: I will take a few minutes
tonight to thank you for the paper and as your request, notify you of a change
of address. I don’t know who told you the address that was on the paper today,
but it got here. My address has changed 3 times since Oct. 25. Now is that
excuse enough? I noticed in the column you have some trouble with fellows not
sending their changes of addresses. Now don’t take my name off the list till
you have given me a chance the next time my address changes. I notify you as
soon as possible."
Rea Ellis Colclasure
“The Kinmundy Express” – Aug. 22, 1963 - "Cpl. Rea Ellis COLCLASURE of the USA,
who has been stationed in Germany, visited his aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Darrell REESE
and family, Sunday night."
Wyett H. Colclasure
“The Daily Illini” (Urbana-Champaign, Illinois) – Aug. 7, 1943
– “Graduate Comes Back from War”; “Capt. W.H. COLCLASURE Returns After Wound”:
“Capt. Wyatt H. COLCLASURE ’39 is the first graduate wounded in action to return
from the war. Captain COLCLASURE visited P.H. TRACY, professor of dairy
manufacturers, and other friends on the campus this week. Captain COLCLASURE
was a member of the initial Allied group invading Africa and landed at Port
Lyantsy, French Morocco, on his 30th birthday, Nov. 8, 1942. He was
wounded when an enemy shell exploded about 8 feet away and sent shrapnel into
his leg April 3 in the battle of Macknassey. He wears the decoration of the
Order of the Purple Heart as well as American theatre, African-European theater,
and defense ribbons. The defense ribbon indicates one year of service before
the attack on Pearl Harbor. Captain COLCLASURE was under enemy fire for 18
days. His wife and son, Harrison, 11 months old, accompanied him on his visit
to the campus. He had never seen his son until his return from the war.”
%20Harrison%20Colclasure.jpg)
(V-351) Wyett Harrison Colclasure
II
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 14, 1966 - "Announce Engagement: Mr. and Mrs. Virgil
BROOM, St. Joseph, Ill., announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of
their daughter, Virginia Louise to 1st/Lt. W. Harrison COLCLASURE II, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Wyett COLCLASURE, Kinmundy. Miss BROOM graduated from the U. of
I. in 1965 and has taken graduate work at Scarrit College, Nashville, Tenn.
Lt. COLCLASURE graduated from U. of I. in 1964 and received his Master's degree
from the U. of I. in 1965. He is presently assigned to the Infantry
School, Ft. Benning, Ga. The wedding will be April 30 at the Methodist
Church, St. Joseph."
March 16, 1967 - "Receives Promotion: Wyett H. COLCLASURE
II, 24, whose parents live on Route 1, Kinmundy, Ill., was promoted to Army
captain, February 7 in Vietnam, where he is serving with the 9th Infantry
Division. Capt. COLCLASURE, executive officer of the division's
Headquarters Company, entered the Army in August 1964 and arrived overseas last
December. He is a 1960 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School in Kinmundy,
and received his B.S. and M.S. degrees at the University of Illinois in Urbana,
in 1964 and 1965 respectively. His wife, Virginia, lives in Cowden."
Nov. 9,
1967 - "Capt. W.H. Colclasure II returned to Kinmundy Tuesday after a tour in
Vietnam, where he was serving with the 9th Infantry Division, about
30 miles from Saigon. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, 1st Oak
Leaf Cluster, four service and achievement during his tour there. Capt.
Colclasure joined the Division at Ft. Riley, Kansas, in Aug. 1966. He was the
Executive officer of the Division Headquarters Co., where he served till
promoted to Captain in February. He then changed to duties as the Division
Liasion Officer in which he traveled regularly between the 9th
Division Headquarters and Field Force Vietnam Headquarters. Capt. Colclasure
arrived back in the United States on Saturday, Oct. 27. He and his wife will be
in Kinmundy with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Colclasure until Thanksgiving,
then report to Ft. McClellan, Ala., where he will attend the Advanced Chemical
Course at the school there."
Nov. 7, 1968 - "Army Captain Wyatt H. COLCLASURE
II, 26, whose parents live on Route 1, Kinmundy, Ill. completed the Chemical
Center, Ft. McClellan, Ala., Oct. 11. The 10 month course prepares
officers for command positions, and staff duties from batallion through brigade
levels. Capt. COLCLASURE received his commission through the Reserve
Officers' Training Corps program at the Univ. of Ill., Urbana, Ill., where he
graduated with an MS degree in 1965. The captain's wife, Virginia, is with
him at the fort."
Sept. 4, 1969 – “Army Captain Wyett H. COLCLASURE II,
son of Mr. and Mrs. Wyett H. Colclasure of Kinmundy, is serving as a test
officer for the Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Test Division at the Army’s
coldest post in the world, the Artic Test Center, Alaska. CPT Colclasure is
working with the Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Test division which tests such
items as chemical agents, gas masks, and biological substances. This harsh
land, beset by high winds and temperatures which drop to minus 60 degrees during
the winter, is a sharp contrast to the tropic conditions he experienced in
Vietnam.
The Test center is located 100 miles southeast of Fairbanks and 175 miles south
of the Artic Circle. The Center puts Army material thru an artic
environmental shakedown to determine if it can function in artic conditions.
The 26 year old soldier was graduated from the
Univ. of
Ill. in
1965 with a Masters of Science degree and received an ROTC commission. His last
duty assignment before being assigned to the
Test
Center was at Ft. McClellan, Ala.”
June 11, 1970 - "Mr. and Mrs. Wyett COLCLASURE are enjoying
an extended visit in Alaska with their son, Major and Mrs. Harrison COLCLASURE
and family who are stationed there."
March 4, 1971 - "The COLCLASURES Experiencing Minus 70
Weather at Bolio Lake Artic Test Center": "The United States Army Artic Test
Center, near Delta Junction, Alaska, experience a two week cold spell from 13 to
29, January, which broke daily low and all-time temperature records. Bolio
Lake, scene of many Artic Test Center test activities, experienced a minus 70
degrees breaking the all-time low for that facility which previously was minus
66 degrees set January, 1962. During the sixteen days of low temperatures
the average nightly temperature was minus 39 degrees on Post and minus 54 degrees
and minus 53 degrees at Sawmill Range and Bolio Lake, respectively. during
this period, each day's previous low record was broken on Post by at least 3
degrees and by as much as 26 degrees on Jan. 24 when the post temperature fell
to minus 56 degrees as compared to the previous records of minus 30 degrees for
that day of the year. The highest low during the period was minus 42
degrees and the lowest low was minus 58 degrees, which occurred two times.
During the week of 25 January to 1 February the temperature changed a total of
54 degrees from a minus 58 degrees on the 25th of January to a minus 4 degrees
on 31 January. This is where Capt. Harrison COLCLASURE and his family are
stationed."
July 19, 1973 - Capt. and Mrs. Harrison COLCLAUSRE and sons,
Fort McCleallan, Ala., and Tim ATKINS, Anniston, Ala., were overnight guests
of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wyett COLCLASURE."
July 4, 1974 – “Mr. and Mrs. Wyett COLCLASURE received
word Monday morning that their son, Capt. Harrison COLCLASURE has been promoted
to the rank of Major. Major Colclasure is on duty with NORAD at Ent, AFB,
Colorado Springs, Colo. He along with his wife and 2 sons reside in
Colorado Springs, Colo."
Nov. 21, 1974 - "Major Harrison COLCLASURE of Colorado
Springs, Colo., spent Thursday and Friday with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wyett
COLCLASURE. They took him to St. Louis on Saturday where he left by plane
for home."
July 10, 1980 - "July 4th dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs.
Wyett COLCLASURE were Lt. Col. and Mrs. W. Harrison COLCLASURE II and sons,
Jacksonville, Alabama, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hughes and family, rural Ashley, and
Mr. and Mrs. Howard COLCLASURE, rural Farina."
Apr. 2, 1987 – “On the first day of March, 1987, Harrison COLCLASURE was
promoted to the rank of Colonel in the U.S. Army. He lives with his family in
Falls Church, Virginia, and commutes to Washington, D.C. at the Army Matriel
Command where he is a chemist. Colonel COLCLASURE and his wife, Virginia, are
the parents of three children, Wyett, age 18, Christopher, age 16, and little
daughter, Retha, age 2 ½ years. Colonel COLCLASURE is the son of Mr. and Mrs.
Wyett COLCLASURE of our city. He graduated with the K.A.C.H.S. Class of 1960.
Our congratulations to him.”
Ira D. Combs
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Nov. 7, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men - In
Training Camps - Ira D. COMBS, hon. discharged
Charlie Conant
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 30, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men - In
Training Camps - Charlie CONANT
March 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Charlie CONANT
(V-379) Eli Conant
"The Kinmundy Express"
Aug. 9, 1945 - "Eli CONANT and Joe FEATHER both of
this community, are now stationed at Ft. Sheridan."
Dec. 20, 1945 - "Swift School: Pvt. Eli CONANT
arrived home Saturday morning to spend his Christmas furlough with his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Marvin CONANT and family."
Jan. 3, 1946 - "Pvt. Eli CONANT left for Camp Friday
after spending a 14 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin CONANT."
Jan. 16, 1947 - "Swift School: Eli CONANT has
returned home from the army and will be with us now for quite awhile he says.
Welcome home Eli."
May 22, 1947 - "Kinmundy Community High School
Commencement Program: Samuel Eli CONANT (veteran)"
(V-180) Gary Conant
- 101st Americal Division 23 M.P. Co.
James D. Conant
"The
Kinmundy Express”
July 9, 1942 - "Chamber of Commerce Holds July
Meeting: .......The speaker of the evening was Lieut. James D. CONANT, of the
A.S. Army Air Corps, who made a very interesting talk on the Army Air Corps.
which was enjoyed by all. After his talk he was asked several questions on
the Corps, and along these lines."
Oct. 28, 1943 - "Lt. James CONANT is here visiting
his mother, Mrs. Florence CONANT, and other relatives."
Dec. 2, 1943 - "Mrs. Florence CONANT received a
picture this week of General MORRIS, Commanding General of the 4th Fighter
Command, decorating her son, 1st Lt. James D. CONANT of the 371st with the Air
Medal, aviation’s second highest award for meritorious achievements as a pilot
participating in over 200 hours of long range patrol, flights, rescue, etc. in
the Panama Canal Zone. Congratulations."
July 13, 1944 - "Mrs. Florence CONANT has returned
from an extended visit in Portland, Ore., with her son, Lt. James CONANT and
other relatives."
July 27, 1944 - "Mr.
and Mrs. Paul A. ROBERTS of Santa Monica, Calif. announce the marriage of their
daughter, Frances Ruth to Lt. James D. CONANT of the Portland Army Air Base on
Friday, July 7 at 5 pm in the First Congregational Church. In the presence
of a number of guests, the Rev. McTyre, officiating, the happy couple pledged
their troth. The bride wore white and carried a bridal bouquet of white
and pink begonias and orchids. She was attended by her bridesmaid, Miss
Shirley Burch of Berkley, Calif. The bride was given in marriage by her
father. The groom was attended by his uncle, S.G. DeVORE, of Portland.
Mrs. CONANT is a graduate of the University of Cal. majoring in home economics.
The groom is a graduate of the University of Ill. and has been in the service
for 3 years. He is son of Mrs. Florence CONANT and grandson of Mrs. Harriett
DeVORE of this city. Lt. CONANT and wife left for a 5 day honeymoon imediately
after the ceremony. They are at hom at 1709 S. W. Morrison Ave, Apt. 312,
Portland, Ore."
Dec.
28, 1989 - (From his obituary): 'He was born on March 24, 1919 the
son of Florence (DeVORE) CONANT FRANKLIN. He graduated from Kinmundy High
School in 1936 and from the Univ. of IL in 1940. He received his Masters
Degree in English Literature from the Univ. of Southern Calif. He was a
combat pilot and captain in World War II serving in the United States Air
Force....."
Lewis J. Conant
AThe
Marion County Express@;
Kinmundy, Illinois;
Aug. 29, 1918 - "Word received from L.J. CONANT, Municipal
Pier, Aug. 21. Says in part: 'Thirty out of my company of 85 were chosen
to go to Cleveland the 22nd and it was my good fortune to be one of the 30 and
will be for 7 weeks on the lakes, traversing the waters of the five big pounds.
The commission of Ensign in the navy is equivalent to that of Capt. of the army.
An ensign in command may have full charge of a ship and the entire crew, and
when in command of men the number is usually a full company, seldom less than 75
to 100. In classes we study navigation, seaman ship, signals, ordinance,
gunnery, and regulations. At present there are about 800 men here.
The usual Quoto of the Pier is 1200. Arno MILLER reported yesterday
only to be sent to Great Lakes for 3 weeks detention. They had no clothes
here for the new draft. After 7 or 8 weeks of practical training on the
boats at Cleveland, we return here for a month to be finally called out for the
Pleham draft at New York which ends our course of 6 months training. I am
Corporal of Squad 6 in Co. I.'
Word received from him Aug. 23, says 'I arrived in
Cleveland this morning and will be on the lakes in a week for 7 weeks. Am
going to Dr. J. Ben MORGAN's tomorrow and Sunday. Health fine and
constitution happy.' His address is: Lewis CONANT; U.S.N.A.R.F.; Receiving
Ship Bar B, 121."
Jan. 2, 1919 -
"Lewis CONANT, who is stationed at an ensign’s
school at Cleveland, Ohio, is spending a short furlough with relatives and
friends, of this city. He still has a few months to serve before receiving his
commission in the Navy and will then no doubt be placed in the Merchant Marine
Service."
May
22, 1919 - "A Tribute to Ours Boys of the Blue, Silver and Gold Stars; the
Alumni meeting of 1919 would fail in one of its most vital points of interest,
did we forget do honor to the boys from our roll of membership who have given
their services to their country in her hour of great need, and whose names with
henceforth be written in shining stars of blue, silver and gold, on the memory
of every loyal man and woman, boy and girl of Kinmundy of this Association and
of this great nation of which we are a part ..... (Class of 1914) Lewis CONANT,
also of the Class of '14, enlisted in the navy from Chicago about the middle of
April 1918. Lewis, being a senior at the U. of I. was allowed to go back
to Champaign and graduate in June. July 16 was called into training at the
Great Lakes Camp; was later sent to Cleveland, Ohio. Was commissioned
ensign in March, 1919. Has never been called "overseas."'
June 12, 1919
- "Word received by Mrs. B.F. LOWE, states that Lewis CONANT who is in the Navy
and has been stationed at New York, had been assigned to the U.S.S. Lancaster
and expected to sail at once for Brest, France. He received his commission
as Ensign sometime ago."
Feb. 1, 1945 - "Com. Lewis J. CONANT U.S.N., spent last night
here in the J. Lem BALLANCE home, enroute from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C."
Jan. 10, 1974 - (From Obituary): ".... Mr. CONANT was a
Navy Veteran of both World Wars and had been an unsuccessful candidate for
Congress in 1944 while he was stationed at the Key West Navy Base.
He was born in Kinmundy, IL ......"
Loren
Conant
“The Kinmundy Express” – Nov. 9, 1950 – “Loren CONANT Dies in Fire Near Odin
Friday Night: A World War II veteran who saw service in Korea before the Korean
war, lost his life, a fellow worker was badly burned, and a third fellow worker
escaped early Saturday morning when fire and unknown origin destroyed five
single-room cabin on the James OGG hog farm, one mile north of Odin. Loren
CONANT, 38, son of Ira D. CONANT, of Iuka, was burned alive in his flaming
cabin. His two friends were unable to arouse him or save him. Funeral was
held Monday afternoon, with the Wilson Funeral Home of Odin, in charge of
arrangements. The three men were employed by OGG to care for his 500 or more
hogs. They resided on the place, each staying in a single cabin. They had been
in OGG’s employ for about a month. Leo LEWIS, 22, was first to be awakened by
the cracking of flames at about 1:30 a.m. In running through the door of his
cabin, he was badly burned about the face, legs and arms. He called for CONANT,
but couldn’t arouse him. The third man, Arthur LOUDERBACK, 34, was able to get
out of his cabin without injury and they ran to the home of a neighbor, Bud
ADAMS. In the meantime, flames were noticed by Mrs. Fred STINE, of Odin, who
notified the Odin Fire Department. By the time the department reached the
scene, four of the cabins had been destroyed and the fifth was blazing.
CONANT’s charred remains were not found by firemen until the ashes of his cabin
had cooled. Awaiting the recovery of the body, the Marion county coroner
ordered the other two men held by the sheriff, but they were released after the
coroner’s jury absolved them of blame. Origin of the fire was not determined.
CONANT was born June 13, 1912, at Kinmundy, and served 4 years in World War II,
with the Navy. Some time after his discharge he reenlisted this time in the
Army and did duty in Korea, taking his discharge before the Korean war broke
out. In addition to his father, he leaves two brothers, Emmett of Brentwood,
Mo. and Billy, U.S. Navy. (Salem Republican)”
(V-178) Lyle Conant
"The Kinmundy Express"
Sept. 2, 1943 - And
here’s one from Pvt. Lyle E. CONANT, who is sojourning in merry old England.
"How are you? I am fine. I get your paper about twice a month. It takes a little
time for it to get here but I am sure glad to get it. I think you should be over
here, and show these folks how to raise hogs and tell them which side of the
road to drive on as they drive on the left side. Well, I must close. When you
get a few days off, come over and see me and I’ll show you around."
Sept. 6, 1945 - "Sgt.
Harold ROBB and Pvt. Lyle CONANT arrived home Tuesday night to spend 30 days
here with homefolks."
Sept. 13, 1945 – “Pvt. Lyle CONANT arrived here the night of Sept. 4, to spend a
30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William CONANT and family,
residing in the Sandy Branch community. Lyle entered the army Nov. 3, 1942, and shipped overseas July 1,
1943, landing in Scotland. From there
he went to England where he was stationed during his entire time spent abroad.
He was a member of the Chemical Warfare Div., 92nd Bomb Group. He left England
on Aug. 26, on the Queen Elizabeth landing in New York, Aug. 31. He and Harold
ROBB were on the same boat coming home but knew nothing about it until they met
in the Railway station in Chicago waiting for the train to bring them to
Kinmundy.”
Mack Conant
“The Kinmundy Express” – Jan. 7, 1954 – “Pvt. Mack CONANT
Now in Korean Base Section: Pvt. Mack O. CONANT, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.E. CONANT,
Alma, recently joined the Korean Base Section’s 114th Quartermaster
Registration Co. The base section controls most of the rear area units which
provide supplies, services, communications and transportation for other UN
forces on the peninsula. Private CONANT entered the Army last June and was
formerly stationed at Fort Hood, Texas.”
Bryan L. Connor
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 5, 1981 - “Bryan L. CONNOR,
101 N. Madison St., Kinmundy, Illinois, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force today,
according to TSGT, Johnnie R. Wiley, Air Force representative at 226 E.
Broadway, Centralia. Upon graduation from the Air Force's six weeks basic
military training, he will receive training in open electronics. He will
be earning credits toward a two-year Associate in Applied Science Degree through
the Community College of the Air Force while attending basic and other Air Force
technical training schools."
May 14, 1981 - "Airman Bryan L. CONNOR, son of Mrs.
Whitney R. MAHNKE of 401 N. Madison St., Kinmundy, Ill., has been assigned to
Chanute Air Force Base, Ill., after completing Air Force basic training.
During the 6 weeks at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, the airman studies the Air
Force mission, organization and customs and received special training in human
relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits
toward an associate degree in applied science through the Community college of
the Air Force. The airman will now receive specialized instruction in the flight training
equipment field."
Jeanette (Connor) Wooldridge Medina
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Sept.
20, 1979 - "“Michael
L. WOOLDRIDGE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy A. WOOLDRIDGE of 400 N. Jefferson,
Salem, has received first promotion in the U.S. Air Force. WOOLDRIDGE, promoted
to airman, is assigned to Hahn Air Base, Hahn, West Germany, as a computer
operator with a unit of the United States Air Forces in Europe. The airman, a
1970 graduate of Salem Community High School, received an associate degree in
1972 from Kaskaskia College, Centralia, and a bachelor’s degree in 1975 from
Eastern Illinois University at Charleston. His wife, Air Force Airman Jeanette
C. CONNOR, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adolph MAHNKE of Kinmundy.”
May 29, 1980 – “Lt. Michael WOOLDRIDGE, Denver, Colorado, and his wife,
Airman First Class Jeanette CONNOR WOOLDRIDGE, of Germany, visited their
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leroy WOOLDRIDGE, Salem, and Mr. and Mrs. Adolph MAHNKE
and family, Saturday night and Sunday. They also attended the Alumni Banquet
Saturday night.”
Feb. 9, 1984 – “Staff Sgt. Jeanette C. WOOLDRIDGE, daughter of Adolph W.
and Whitney R. MAHNKE of 102 N. Madison, Kinmundy, IL, has graduated from the
U.S. Air Force aircraft armament course at Lowry Air Force Base, Colorado.
During the course, students were taught to inspect and maintain fire control
systems on heavy bomber aircraft. They also earned credits toward an associate
degree through the Community College of the Air Force. WOOLDRIDGE is scheduled
to serve at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada with the 474th Aircraft
Generation Squadron. Her husband, Air Force 1st Lt. Michael L.
WOOLDRIDGE, is the son of LeRoy and Martha WOOLDRIDGE of 400 N. Jefferson,
Salem, IL. She is a 1978 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School, Kinmundy.”
Nov. 13, 1986 – “Air Force Staff Sgt. Jeanette C. MEDINA, daughter of
Whitney R. and Adolph W. MAHNKE of Rural Route 2, Iuka, IL, has arrived for duty
with the 52nd Aircraft Generation Squadron, West Germany. MEDINA, an
aircraft armament systems technician, is a 1978 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High
School, Kinmundy, IL. Her husband, Air Force Master Sgt. Tirson J. MEDINA, is
the son of Candelario MEDINA of 690 E. 182nd St., Bronx, NY, and
Consuelo PERELLO of 399 Coney Island Ave., Brooklyn, NY, and is a F-100 Jet
engine technician.”
Feb. 12, 1987 – “Staff Sgt. Jeanette C. MEDINA, daughter of Adolph W. and
Whitney R. MAHNKE of Rural Route 2, Iuka, IL, has been decorated with the second
award of the Air Force Commendation Medal in West Germany. The Air Force
Commendation Medal is awarded to those individuals who demonstrate outstanding
achievement or meritorious service in the performance of their duties on behalf
of the Air Force. MEDINA is an aircraft armament systems technician with the
7480th Aircraft Generation Squadron. Her husband,
Air Force Master Sgt. Tirso J. MEDINA, is the son of Candelario MEDINA of 690 E.
182nd St., Bronx, NY, and Consuelo PERELLO of 390 Coney Island Ave.,
Brooklyn, NY. She is a 1978 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School,
Kinmundy, IL."
Oct. 4, 1990 – “Tech. Sgt. Jeanette C. MEDINA has graduated from the
environmental medicine specialist course at Brooks Air Force Base, Texas.
Graduates of the course were taught methods for inspecting sanitation standards
of barber shops and beauty salons, and to evaluate sanitation, temperature, and
ventilation levels of food-serving and storage facilities. They were also
taught their responsibilities in handling communicable disease control. In
addition, graduates earned credits toward an associate degree through the
community college of the Air Force. MEDINA was an honor graduate of the
course. She is the daughter of Whitney R. and Adolph W. MAHNKE of Iuka.
The sergeant is a 1978 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School."
John Conrad
Aaron D. Cook
“The
Kinmundy Express”
July 16, 1998 – “Navy Airman Aaron D. COOK, a 1990 graduate of South
Central High School of Farina, IL, recently participated in Exercise,
MARCOT/Unified Spirit while on a four month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea
and Arabian Gulf aboard the guided missle cruiser USS Yorktown. COOK is one of
more than 5000 sailors who participated in the multinational exercise with units
from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Netherlands,
Norway, Portugal and the United States. Conducted off the southwestern coast of
Newfoundland, Canada, the 2 week exercise focused on multinational peace
enforcement operations. Forces received training on land and sea search and
rescue procedures, surveillance and maritime interdiction and non-combatant
evacuations. Homeported in Pacagoula, Miss., COOK’s ship is one of the most
powerful warships ever put to sea. The computer-based AEGIS weapons system is
the heart of the ship’s warfighting capability. It centers around a powerful
radar that enables the crew to detect, track and fire on more than 100 targets
at a time. He joined the Navy in October 1996.”
June 24, 1999 – “Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Aaron D. COOK, a
1990 graduate of South Central High School of Farina, IL, recently reported for
duty aboard the guided missile cruiser USS Yorktown, homeported in Pascagoula,
Miss. He joined the Navy in October 1996.”
(V-373) Albert D. Correll
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 8, 1944 - "Report for Examination: Dwight
ALEXANDER, Fred BOYD, Glen WHITE, Herschel KRUTSINGER, Albert CORRELL and George
BUTTS, of Kinmundy, and Richard GRAY and Roy Otis HINES of Alma, were asked this
week to report for the physical examination, preparatory to entering the armed
forces. In addition to these boys, there are 117 others from the Salem
district making a total of 125 for this area."
Oct. 19, 1944 - "PFC Albert CORRELL of Texas came
last Thursday to spend his 15 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E.
CORRELL."
March 15, 1945 - "Cpl. Albert CORRELL of Boise,
Idaho, came Saturday for a short visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E.
CORRELL and other relatives and friends."
Aug. 2, 1945 – “Cpl. Albert D. CORRELL of Harling, Texas is spending a furlough
here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL and other relatives and
friends.”
Nov. 1, 1945 – “Cpl. and Mrs. Albert CORRELL left Sunday for Monroe, La. where
Cpl. CORRELL is now stationed.”
Nov. 29, 1945 – “Omega: Albert CORRELL, who has been discharged from the army is
here on furlough. He has enlisted in the army for another year.”
Jan. 31, 1946 –“Cpl. Albert D. CORRELL left Friday for Greensboro, N.C. after spending a 60 day
furlough here with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL. He
re-enlisted for another year.”
July 25, 1946 –“Word has been received here of the promotion of Cpl. Albert
CORRELL to that of Sergeant. He is son of Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL of this
city, and is stationed somewhere in Germany.”
Apr. 24, 1952 - "Albert CORRELL Fatally Injured in
Truck Accident Near Carlyle Last Thursday: Our community received another shock
last Thursday afternoon when the word reached here that Mr. Albert CORRELL had
met with a fatal truck accident. He was travelling east from St. Louis
with a truck load of Mercury cars. He was travelling on Route 50 and the
accident happened near Huey, east of Carlyle......Albert D., son of Oscar and
Amy HAMPSTEN CORRELL, was born in Omega twp. on March 23, 1914. He passed
into eternal sleep Apr. 17, 1952. Most of his life was spent in and near
Omega. In 1942, he enlisted in the Air Corps of the U.S. Army serving four
and one-half years. One year of this military service was served overseas.
He married Marjorie HUDDLESTUN on May 13, 1945 ...."
(V-175) Nathan Courtright
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 14, 1993 – “Marine Pvt. Nathan R. COURTRIGHT, grandson of Phil and
Monna FRAKES of 321 S. Franklin, Salem, IL, recently completed the Light Armored
Vehicle Crewman Course. During the course at the School of Infantry, Marine
Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, Calif., students receive intensive training in the
weapons and combat skills necessary to provide infantrymen with the capability
of performing offensive and defensive missions that exploit the light armored
vehicle’s agility and fire power. The 1992 graduate of Salem Community High
School joined the Marine Corps in January, 1993.”
Apr. 6, 1995 - "Participates in Operation
United Shield: Being part of an important mission is something for which
every Marine trains. Because of this, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Nathan R.
Courtright was ready for his duties as part of the force that provided cover for
the final withdrawal of United Nations troops in Somalia during Operation United
Shield. For more than two years, United Nations forces protected
humanitarian relief efforts amid the chaos of Somalia's internal unrest.
Courtright, the 21-year-old (grand)son of Phil and Monna Frakes of Salem, is
aboard the Japan-based amphibious assault ship USS Belleau Wood as part of a
special purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force formed from the Marine Corp's Third
Marine Expenditionary Force. The Belleau Wood, plus three San Diego-based
amphibious ships USS Fort Fisher, USS Essex, and USS Odgen carried about 2,700
Marine from Camp Pendleton, California and Okinawa, Japan, which were the
protective force for the last United Nations soldiers leaving Mogadishu.
"I was glad to be part of the operation", said Courtright, a 1992 graduate of
Salem Community High School. Since August 1992, with the U.S. Marine Corps
involvement in the Somalia humanitarian effort, hundreds of thousands of lives
have been saved. The U.S. support of Operation United Shield is part of a
longstanding commitment to the United Nations."
Eugene W. Cosby
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Aug. 23, 1945 – “Swift School: Pvt. Eugene W. COSBY left Saturday for Chanute
Field at Rantoul, Ill. after spending a week with his wife, Helen and her
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom HELPINGSTINE and family. Helen is remaining a few
weeks longer.”
Bill Coughlin
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Jan. 28, 1960 - "Mr. Hugh COUGHLIN, Kenny and Bill, of Iuka, visited Mr. and
Mrs. Chester KLINE Monday of last week. Bill had just returned from
Germany."
Hugh Coughlin
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Sept. 5, 1918 - "More Selected Men: 12 more men
have been added to Kinmundy's contribution to democracy's forces. The following
12 men left Salem Thursday afternoon for Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Mich.: Hugh
COUGHLIN, Morgan H. PHILLIPS, William H. GIGAR, Charles KAGY, Otto V. REESE,
John Arthur HOWELL, Clifford M. DOWNS, Clifford G. JACKSON, Fred COURSON, Henry
E. METZGER, Gordon KRUTSINGER, and Otis E. SMITH. It is a significant
coincidence that one of these boys, Clifford DOWNS, has a brother who has
already fallen a prey to the Hun and without a doubt he goes with a very
definite purpose and a far realization of what he is going into. We
believe these boys are going with a clear realization of the noble and righteous
cause in which they are taking up arms and with a high resolve to give their all
if need be. We trust they may also have as full a realization of our
support to our uttermost resources; even to the point of great sacrifices."
Dec. 19, 1918 - "Corporal Loren KLINE, who has been stationed for
some time at Camp Pike, Ark., Wm. BAYLISS of Jefferson Barracks, Clifford
JACKSON and Hugh COUGHLIN of Camp Custer, Mich., arrived home last week having
been likewise discharged from the service. The community joins their
relatives in welcoming home these soldiers of democracy and we know that they
will be heartily received into their old positions in the community life."
Earl Courson
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 30, 1918 - William HARRIS and Earl COURSON left
Tuesday for camp in Miss."
March 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Earl COURSON
Fred Courson
"The Marion County Express Express" - Kinmundy,
IL:
Sept. 5, 1918 - "More Selected Men: 12 more men
have been added to Kinmundy's contribution to democracy's forces. The following
12 men left Salem Thursday afternoon for Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Mich.: Hugh
COUGHLIN, Morgan H. PHILLIPS, William H. GIGAR, Charles KAGY, Otto V. REESE,
John Arthur HOWELL, Clifford M. DOWNS, Clifford G. JACKSON, Fred COURSON, Henry
E. METZGER, Gordon KRUTSINGER, and Otis E. SMITH. It is a significant
coincidence that one of these boys, Clifford DOWNS, has a brother who has
already fallen a prey to the Hun and without a doubt he goes with a very
definite purpose and a fiar realization of what he is going into. We
believe these boys are going with a clear realization of the noble and rightous
cause in which they are taking up arms and with a high resolve to give their all
if need be. We trust they may also have as full a realization of our
support ot our uttermost resources; even to the point of great sacrifices."
Dec. 19, 1918 - "Fred COURSON and Elmer BUTTS are home
from camp."
Feb. 27, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Fred COURSON
Arvie Lee Cox
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 2, 1943 - "In the Service: Arvie Lee COX"
Jan. 4, 1945 - "In the Service: Arvie Lee COX"
Arthur Cox
"The
Kinmundy Express”
- Aug. 2, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. J.M. McCARTY of Iola, received word
that their son, Rex, has now been promoted to Captain, and is now stationed in
Paris. Rex entered the service in 1943, and is now 23 years old. He graduated
from Kinmundy H.S. in 1941. Mr. and Mrs. McCARTY have 3 other sons in the
service. T/Sgt. Max McCARTY, who has been stationed in England for the past 2
years, but is now in the States. Max, for the past 2½ years has been Radio
Instructor. He is now 24 years old and entered the service in 1942; PFC Lex
McCARTY entered the service in 1944 and now is in Germany, arriving there in
October. Before entering the service, Lex worked as a telegrapher while in the
States and his work is much the same in Germany; Corp. Dale McCARTY entered the
service in Jan. 1945, is now 18 years old, stationed Camp Robinson, Ark., where
he is teaching Physical training. Dale graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in 1944.
Mr. and Mrs. McCARTY also have a son-in-law in the service, Arthur COX,
Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur COX of Edgewood, who drowned June 2, 1945 in
River Rhine, Germany. Arthur entered the service in 1944, and was 22 at
the time of his death."
J. Oscar Cox
"The
Marion County Express” - Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1917 - "Mesdames J.O. COX, Orville
GARRETT, S.E. ROBB and daughter Veda and Misses Margaret FRENCH and Erma COFFIN
returned home Monday after spending a few days at Camp Taylor with their
husbands and Ener ZIMMER and Walter MASON. They report a pleasant trip,
the boys in excellent health and that some of them would be home Christmas and
some New Years."
June 6, 1918 - "John BRASEL, Walter MILLER, J.O.
COX, Walter BAYLIS, Ener ZIMMER, Eli ROBB of Camp Taylor spent Sunday at home
with their families before leaving for Camp Sherman, Ohio."
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France - J.
Oscar COX
Apr. 24, 1919 - "Messages were received Thursday by
relatives stating that Thos. MANGNER, J.O. COX, and Eli ROBB had landed safely
in New York and will probably be home in a few days."
May 1, 1919 - "J.O. COX and Eli ROBB arrived home
late Tuesday night from Camp Grant where they had been demobilized. They
were among the first of our boys to leave in the draft army although they failed
to get into action overseas. They were due to enter the front lines on the
day the armistice was signed. They trained at Camp Taylor in the 84th
division and did not sail for France until last September. After their
long absence it is indeed a pleasure to welcome home these two men and we assure
them of their full place in our affections."
Ambrose L. Craig
"From France comes a V-Mail from Cpl. L. CRAIG, Alma, who
writes that the country is very pretty. He said, "While in the Paris Red
Cross, I saw on a U.S. Map where Charles GOOSTREE of Xenia and R.D. SMITH of
Salem had pinned a marker on Salem. No date was indicated though."
Cpl. CRAIG, who is a paratrooper, says not all the cities have been too damaged
by the war. Most of them have been hit somewhat. The people are
friendly and do whatever they can when they see a need for assistance."
"Wedding Bells for Alma Paratrooper" - "Mr. and Mrs. Harry
THOMPSON, rural route 2, Salem, have announced the engagement of their daughter,
Miss Rose Marie THOMPSON, 19, to Cpl. A.L. CRAIG, 23, son of Mr. and Mrs. Myron
CRAIG, Alma. Cpl. CRAIG, whose father is Alma postmaster, entered the
service three years ago, and served overseas eight months with the 13th
Airborne. As a Paratrooper, he participated in the Rhineland and Ardennes
battles, and is entitled to wear the Paratrooper wings, Good Conduct medal,
American Theatre ribbon, ETO ribbon, and Victory medal with two battle stars.
He is now stationed at Camp Grant with post engineers, and expects to be
discharged soon. He is a graduate of Salem community high school, class of
1940. Miss Thompson is now a senior in Salem community high school.
Wedding will be held some time after her graduation."
"The Kinmundy Express"
Feb. 18, 1943 - "In the Service: Ambrose L. CRAIG"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Ambrose L. CRAIG"
Ben Craig
"Marion County Express"; Kinmundy, IL
May 23, 1919 - "Answers Call of Sea: The call of the sea
and the condition of the times proved too much for Ben Craig, son of Mrs.
Francis Craig and last week found him responding to the call. He has
entered the submarine chaser service and expects to be in English waters in a
very short time. It will be remembered that Ben received his discharge
from the Navy about a year ago, holding the rank of petty officer."
July 24, 1919 - Home from the Service: Oswald MILLER,
Ralston HANNA, J. Harvey BROWN, and Ben CRAIG all arrived home within the past
few days after having served with the U.S. Army and Navy. C.B. MOORE and
George HAGG have also returned home from France both of their wives and families
making this city their home. The arrival of these boys marks the return of
all but a very few of the many boys from this community who served in the great
war and a hearty greeting is extended to each and everyone of these returned
warriors."
Eugene M. Craig
"The Kinmundy Express" - Nov. 29, 1917
Camp Logan; Houston, Texas; Nov. 24, 1917
Dear Mr. Editor:
As I have the time, I will drop a few
lines to you and the Kinmundy folks. At the present time everything is
sliding along fine at Camp Logan. All of the Kinmundy boys here are fine
and dandy. We are drilling six hours per day now and most of it is
different from what it formerly was. We are digging trenches and are under
the command of a French officer who has come across to instruct us in the new
ways. Next Thursday night we are going out for night maneuvers. This
will be a new drill for us and usually comes about midnight when a fellow is
doing his best sleeping, but outside of hard drilling we have a pretty good
time. Camp Logan is a good camp located in a pine forest and the climate
is great. It is cool at night but nice and warm through the day. The
city of Houston also is a fine place six miles from our camp. At present
we have 212 men in our company of which 92 are northerners who have been
drafted. The report is going through camp that by the first of January or
sooner we will sail for France. This camp is to be an officers' training
camp so we will have to go somewhere else. As it is getting late, I shall
have to close for retreat. Hoping these few lines find you and the people
of Kinmundy well enjoying life. I am.
Yours Truly, Eugene Craig Co.
G.; U.S. Infantry; Camp Logan, Houston, Texas
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – March 6, 1918;
Camp Logan,
Houston, Texas – Feb. 9, 1918
Dear Editor: As I
have the time and pleasure this afternoon, I will drop you and the people of
Kinmundy a few lines to inform you that the Kinmundy boys at Camp Logan at the
present time are fine and dandy and doing good work for their country. We have
been having some real warfare for the past three days. Our company has been out
in the trenches and stayed three days and nights. To think of it at home would
seem pretty hard, but after you are in there a day or so you get used to it and
don’t mind it so much. All that is hard is the mud and eats. Of course it had
to rain and make it disagreeable for awhile, but we tried to keep from
complaining too much. We went over the top in drill and had four attacks of
gas. Of course you all know that gas is one of our most deadly weapons when in
battle with the Germans, and we are drilled hard on that subject. The gas comes
over the trenches in a big yellow cloud and fills them. We have the gas masks,
there are signal shots up in the air to warn us that there is going to be a gas
attack and we hurriedly put on our masks. There are four or five different
kinds of gas and the one they use on us is tear gas; it will not kill, but will
give you an idea what the deadly gas is, and that way we are drilled to it.
Well folks, I guess you are tired of so much gas, so I will say that us fellows
here in Texas have got it on you for weather. It has been a fine winter here
and very little cold weather. I see in the paper where you have had a white
blanket most of the winter and some severe cold weather. It is raining here
today and we are glad of it for the dust is pretty bad on us. There is a sand
storm every week or so that is very disagreeable, otherwise it has been fine
down here and we have enjoyed it. I see by the Marion Co. Express that you
have had another fire. It seems like Kinmundy is an unlucky place for fires. I
send my sympathy to F.J. NIRIDER and family for I know it was a hard blow on
them to lose their beautiful home. We have a Y.M.C.A. near us so we can
get books and many other things that we were used to at home and also have a
Bible study once a week, so we keep up to that point as near as we can. There
has been a big tabernacle built in the camp and thousands of the boys have been
converted. It certainly is grand that this can be done in camp.
Camp
Logan is lucky for not having more sickness for the rest of the camps have had
their share. Well dear Kinmundy people, I will close and prepare for mess, for
a soldier must not miss that. I do not know when we will sail across the pond,
but not before long, so goodbye with the best of success for you.
I remain your
funny friend, Musician Eugene M. CRAIG
"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill. -
May 30, 1918
"News has been received here of the safe arrival overseas
of Herman ANNA, Eugene CRAIG, Bryan ROBB, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, Abe Alva
BAYLIS, Chas. HOYT. The many Kinmundy relatives and friends are glad
to know of their safe arrival."
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Dec. 5, 1918 - "According to a
message received from the War Department at Washington on Monday by Miss Clara
SEE, residing south of town, her nephew, Herman ANNA, was severally wounded in
battle on Nov. 10, the last day before the signing of the armistice. He
was a member of Co. G 9th Illinois Infantry, a regiment of Federalized National
Guardsmen. In the same Company with him were Abe and Alva BAYLIS, Eugene
CRAIG, Wm. LEMAY, Avery BOUGHERS, and Frank HOYT. These boys have been in
France since last summer and have seen considerable hard fighting. It is
with much regret that his many friends learn of Herman's serious injury on the
last day of the great world struggle. Further word received from these
boys states that Abe BAYLIS is in the hospital with a twisted ankle and Avery
BOUGHERS had been slightly gassed. From the number of Illinois boys in the
recent casualty lists, it is very apparent that our boys were just beginning to
get into the fighting."
June 5, 1919 - "Kinmundy 'Prairie Dogs' Return
Home: Members of Company G Return Home Sunday Evening. Three Wear Wound
Stripes and Three others Win Promotion: The people of Kinmundy were pleased to
welcome home, last Sunday evening several of her very own "Prairie Dogs",
members of the famous 33rd Division and more notably of Company G, of Effingham.
Perhaps more than the usual significance attaches to the return of these boys,
because they constituted the largest number from Kinmundy to be in the same
company and regiment throughout the war. Those from this city who enlisted
in this company were: Alvah BAYLIS, Abe BAYLIS, Charles HOYT, Eugene CRAIG,
Avery BOUGHERS, Wm. LEMAY, Bryan ROBB, and Herman ANNA. Of these, the latter
will never return, for he now sleeps beneath the soil of France, made sacred by
the blood of thousands of his comrades in arms. Of the others, three, Chas.
HOYT, Avery BOUGHERS and William LEMAY, wear wound stripes; Abe BAYLIS rose to
the rank of sergeant, and Avery BOUGHERS and Wm. LEMAY to that of corporal.
These boys enlisted in Company G of the Fourth Illinois Infantry. I.N.G., which
became the 130th Infantry upon its federalization on July 25, 1917. They
were then sent to Camp Logan, Texas, whence they sailed for France May 16th,
1918, landing at Brest May 24. They were soon transferred to the English
sector on the Albert and Hamel fronts, where they were the first of the American
troops to fight under an English Flag. Here they participated in several
battles on July 3rd and 4th, and _________________________________ and here
again they were the first of the American soldiers to fight under the French
flag. On Sept. 26 they went into the lines with the American forces, and
remained under fire continuously until the signing of the armistice. Their
hardest fighting came on Nov. 10 in the battle of Marcheville, in which one of
our own boys gave his life. For his work on this day he was
recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross. After the signing of the
armistice they retired to Tillet, France, where after a week's rest, they
matched to Diekireh, Luxembourg, where they remained as a part of the Army of
Occupation until Apr. 24, when they set out on their return to the U.S.A., home
and loved ones. They arrived at Hoboken, N.J., on May 20th, and were sent
to Camp Grant for demobilization, stopping enroute at Chicago to participate in
a great "homecoming" parade. Their regiment and division return with
an enviable record - one of which this company may well be proud. They are
truly entitled to every honor and the glory which they nobly share with others
of our industrious sons who went out to do battle for us."
Carl Crain
"The Kinmundy Express"
Oct. 10, 1940 - "Pvt. Carl CRAIN of Fort Sheridan,
Ill., spent Thursday of last week and Friday with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Ruben CRAIN."
Jan. 2, 1941 - "Mr. Carl CRAIN who is in the army
and stationed at Fort Sheridan, came home Saturday to spend a few days with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN and other friends."
March 6, 1941 - "Meacham: Mr. Carl CRAIN who is
stationed at Ft. Sheridan, Ill. spent a few days here with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Ruben CRAIN and Gene."
July 10, 1941 - "Mr. Carl CRAIN who is stationed at
Fort Sheridan spent Thursday and Friday with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben
CRAIN."
Aug. 21, 1941 - "Private Carl C. CRAIN, 61st Coast
Artillery (AA), stationed at Fort Sheridan, Ill., was promoted to the rank of
Private First Class upon the recommendation of his organization commander and
under authority of recently published orders. The promotion was made to
fill an existing vacancy. Private CRAIN, proud to be a part of the 61st Coast
Artillery (AA), earned his promotion by his ability and the conscientious
discharge of his duties."
Dec. 11, 1941 - "Pvt. Carl CRAIN of Fort Sheridan
and Gene CRAIN of Decatur were weekend guest of their parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Ruben CRAIN."
Sept. 7, 1944 - "Cpl.
Carl C. CRAIN arrived here Wednesday of last week to spend a 30 day rest period
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN. He landed in New York on the Sunday
previous and was sent direct to Fort Sheridan, where he was issued the necessary
papers to bring him home. Needless to say, Mr. and Mrs. CRAIN are mighty happy
over this occasion, as well as Cpl. CRAIN’s many friends. This is his first
trip home since Aug. 1941. Cpl. CRAIN entered the service on Aug. 20, 1940, and
after training in various camps, was shipped overseas Feb. 19, 1942, landing in
Iceland. He was stationed there until Aug. 5, 1943, when he was shipped to
England. He entered France July 7, 1944, attached to the Field Artillery of the
First Army. Now his battalion is attached to the Air Corps. Corp. CRAIN wears
6 service stripes on his sleeve. His left breast is adorned with the good
conduct ribbon representing Pre-Pearl Harbor, American Theater of Operations
(European, African, and Middle Eastern.) This ribbon contains 4 stars
representing the battles of Normandy Campaign, Northern France Campaign and
German Ground Combat. The 4th star was awarded for knocking down a Buzz (V2)
Bomb. Corp. CRAIN has one brother, Eugene CRAIN, Coxswain, in the navy in the
Southwest Pacific."
Aug. 31, 1944 - "Here’s a nice letter from Cpl. Carl CRAIN,
who is in France or was on Aug. 20th when this letter was written. He says: I
have been contemplating on writing you this letter for some time but just never
got around to it. So, before I go any farther, I would like to thank you from
the bottom of my heart. I don’t believe you can realize just how much the home
town paper means to all the boys that have been away from home as long as I
have. It will soon be 3 years since I left the good old U.S.A. and during all
that time we have been tactical set-up. I’ve seen men die, Mr. VALLOW, and that
is something you can’t forget. I really get a kick out of the boys back there
wanting to come over here. I did too, once, but now I’d give anything in the
world just to get back where it is peaceful and quiet. I know they think they
could be more use over here, but someone has to be there as well as here. They
really don’t know how lucky they are. Well, Mr. VALLOW, we can’t take much time
to write so I’ll close thanking you again for the paper."
March 15, 1945 - "March 15, 1945 - "Meacham: Mr. and
Mrs. Ruben CRAIN were made very happy Sunday when they received a phone call
from New York by their son, Cpl. Carl CRAIN, who had landed there after a
service in the army of nearly 4 years. They expect him home in a few days on
furlough."
March 22, 1945 –
“Cpl. Carl C. CRAIN arrived here Wednesday of last week to spend a 30 day rest
period with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN. He landed in New York on the
Sunday previous and was sent direct to Fort Sheridan, where he was issued the
necessary papers to bring him home. Needless to say, Mr. and Mrs. CRAIN are
mighty happy over this occasion, as well as Cpl. CRAIN’s many friends. This is
his first trip home since Aug. 1941. Cpl. CRAIN entered the service on Aug. 20,
1940, and after training in various camps, was shipped overseas Feb. 19, 1942,
landing in Iceland. He was stationed there until Aug. 5, 1943, when he was
shipped to England. He entered France July 7, 1944, attached to the Field
Artillery of the First Army. Now his battalion is attached to the Air Corps.
Corp. CRAIN wears 6 service stripes on his sleeve. His left breast is adorned
with the good conduct ribbon representing Pre-Pearl Harbor, American Theater of
Operations (European, African, and Middle Eastern.) This ribbon contains 4
stars representing the battles of Normandy Campaign, Northern France Campaign
and German Ground Combat. The 4th star was awarded for knocking down a Buzz
(V2) Bomb. Corp. CRAIN has one brother, Eugene CRAIN, Coxswain, in the navy in
the Southwest Pacific.”
May 17, 1945 –
“Cpl. Carl Crain Receives Discharge: Cpl. Carl Crain, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben
CRAIN, was given a discharge under the newly established point system at Fort
Sheridan Saturday morning. He was the fifth boy to receive his discharge
in this manner from Fort Sheridan. He had a total of 113 points, 85 being
the necessary number for a discharge. Cpl. Crain entered the service Aug.
20, 1940 and shipped overseas Feb. 19, 1942, landing in Iceland. There he
remained until August 1943 when he entered the European Theater. He wears
the Pre Pearl Harbor Ribbon and the American Theater of Operations containing
four battle stars. He returned to the state on Temporary Duty in March.
Since that time he has been visiting his parents. On four occasions his
furlough was extended a few days. At that Carl said he hadn't got caught
up with his visiting and was very happy indeed, to receive his discharge."
Fred E. "Gene" Crain
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 18, 1943 - "Returns to Duty: A/S Fred E.
CRAIN, returned to Chicago yesterday after spending his furlough here with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN residing east of this city. Fred has
completed 'boot training' and will leave for some unknown place upon his return
to Chicago."
Sept. 2, 1943 - "Fred E. CRAIN, S 2/c of Fort Ord,
is spending a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN and other
friends."
June 14, 1945 – “As stated 2 weeks ago, Fred CRAIN, Coxswain, arrived here on
May 27th to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN and son, Carl, who
recently received his discharge. We have delayed this writeup in hopes that we
could reproduce a picture of Fred, but we are informed that a picture will not
be available until sometime next month. Fred entered the navy on Jan. 7, 1943,
and received his boot training at the Great Lakes Naval Station. On Sept. 18,
1943, he shipped overseas landing on New Caledonia. There he was assigned to
the Amphibians, seeing service on the LCM’s, LCVP’s Ferry Barges. From New
Caledonia, he went to Guadalcanal, he went to Guudalcanal, then to Munda, New
Georgia, and then to Manas Admiralty Islands. He arrived back in the states on
May 23 and will report back to the St. Louis Base on June 27th. Fred wears the
American Theater of Operations Ribbon and the Asiatic-Pacific with 2 stars
representing the battle of Munda and the Battle of Bougainville.”
June 14, 1945: "(Meacham): Sunday evening the
Community Birthday Circle and their families came to the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Ruben CRAIN and it was a surprise for Mrs. CRAIN and their son, Fred "Gene"
CRAIN, S1/c, who is at home on leave from the South Pacific. A large crowd
was present. Refreshments of sandwiches and coffee were served."
June 28, 1945: "Meacham: Fred Gene CRAIN, cox, left
Tuesday for his duty in the South Pacific after a 30 day leave with his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN."
Feb. 14, 1946 –“Meacham: Two of our boys made it home from the army and navy.
Freddie MISELBROOK and Gene CRAIN both have received discharges.”
Feb. 14, 1946 –“Fred CRAIN, Coxswain, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN, of
Meacham twp., arrived home Feb. 7 after receiving his discharge from the navy at
Lambert Field, St. Louis. Fred entered the service Jan. 7, 1943 and received his boot training at
Great Lakes. He shipped overseas Sept. 18,
1943 landing on New Caledonia. Here he was assigned to the Amphibians, seeing
service on the LCM’s, LCVP’s, and Ferry Barges at Guadalcanal, New Georgia and
Admiralty Islands. He arrived back in the states May 23 last, at which time he
was granted a 30 day leave which was spent with his parents here. He reported
back for duty June 27 and again sailed to Manus and Saipan and finally to
Tokyo. He arrived back in the states a second time at San Francisco Dec. 31,
where he was stationed until his start for home. Fred wears the American
Theater Ribbon and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars representing the
Munda and Bougainville campaigns.”
Feb. 8, 1951 - "Thanks for the many Christmas Cards I received
from my friends. They were sure appreciated. Fred E. CRAIN; U.S.
Navy."
March 9, 1951 -
“Gene CRAIN arrived in Kinmundy Monday from California where he is with the
Navy, and Ralph KRUTSINGER is home visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ira
KRUTSINGER.”
Jan. 22, 1953 - "Fred E. CRAIN "Gene" of the U.S. Navy has sent
us word to thank everyone for the many Christmas cards and letters he has
received."
Apr. 2, 1953 - "LINDER-CRAIN: Miss Doris Rose LINDER, daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Ivan LINDER, of Salem, and D.C.3. Fred Eugene CRAIN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Ruben CRAIN, exchanged marriage vows in a single ring ceremony, Saturday,
March 28, in Mt. Vernon. The groom will report to his ship in San Diego,
Calif., Apr. 7."
Sept. 24, 1953 – “DC3 Fred CRAIN, who is stationed at
Long Beach,
Calif., arrived Thursday for a 20 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben
CRAIN, and other relatives.”
Jan. 14, 1954 - "Fred E. CRAIN arrived home Monday evening from
California where he had been stationed with the U.S. Navy. He has received
his discharge."
Ruben C. Crain
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 31, 1964 - (From his obituary) "Ruben Claude CRAIN, eldest
son of John and Laura HOCKADAY CRAIN, was born in Marion county, IL, Feb. 20,
1893, and departed this life at his home in Kinmundy Dec. 24, 1864..... He was
united in marriage to Miss Effie Fay DALE in Dixon, IL Dec. 24, 1919. To
this union two sons were born, Carl and Eugene.........Mr. CRAIN was inducted in
the army at Dixon on May 26, 1918 and served with Company C, 131st Infantry,
33rd Division. He was wounded in action at Belleau Wood. He was
discharged at Camp Grant June 4, 1919......"
Charles Crank
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Oct. 17, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In Training
Camps - Charles CRANK
Feb. 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Charles CRANK
Carroll
Crosley
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 20, 1952 – “Pfc Carroll CROSLEY arrived Sunday
from
San Diego,
Calif. to visit his wife and other relatives.”
Aug. 27, 1953 – “Corporal Carroll L. CROSLEY left
Camp Pendleton,
Calif., with the 3rd Division of the Marines, for Japan where they
will go to their various places in the far East. Mrs. CROSLEY and daughter
arrived here Thursday from
Oceanside,
Calif., to visit the Claude HANNA and Harry CROSLEY families.”
Ralph Crosset
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 23, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In Training
Camps - Ralph CROSSET
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Ralph CROSSET
Feb. 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Corp. Ralph CROSSET
Charles Crutchfield
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 14, 1962 - "Charles Ellis CRUTCHFIELD Enlists
in Marines: Charles Ellis CRUTCHFIELD, 18, son of Mrs. Arizona CRUTCHFIELD,
Kinmundy, recently enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and is now taking his
Recruit Training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif.
On completed of recruit training and 4 weeks of advanced training at Camp
Pendleton, Calif., Pvt. CRUTCHFIELD will receive 20 days leave before reporting
to a new duty station or a Marine Corps Technical School Pvt. CRUTCHFIELD
enlisted under the Marine Corps 120 day delay program where a young man can
enlist and chose the day he wishes to leave for active duty. Pvt.
CRUTCHFIELD also enlisted under the Marine Corps Buddy Program with a friend,
Richard LUSBY, of Opdyke. the two Marines will stay together through
recruit training and advance training. Anyone desiring further information
on the Marine Corps. 120 Day Delay Program Aviation, Buddy Program or any other
Marine Corps Program should contact Sgt. Talley or Sgt. Cavitt at the Salem
Court House on Thursdays at 10 a.m., or write Marine Recruiter, Mt. Vernon,
Ill."
Oct. 4, 1962 - “Marine Private Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD,
son of Mrs. Arizona Crutchfield of Kinmundy completed 4 weeks of Individual
Combat training at Camp Pendleton, Calif.” (A photo was included with this
article.)
Feb. 20, 1964 - "Charles Crutchfield, in a letter
addressed to his aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hampsten, states that he
is now on duty in Okinawa with the U.S. Marines. While doing a short duty in
Japan, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal. He will do a 13 month duty with
the 3rd Battalion, the 3rd Marines at Camp Schwab,
Okinawa."
Nov. 26, 1964 - "Charles CRUTCHFIELD of the U.S. Marines and who
has just returned from the Philippines called on Mrs. Bertha CURRY Thursday.
After his furlough, he will return for duty in Virginia."
Dec. 9, 1965 – “Cpl. Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD is
stationed in Viet Nam since Aug. 19th. (His address thru San
Francisco was included.)”
Jan. 13, 1966 – “Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hampsten have
received word from his nephew, Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD, that he has been promoted
to Sgt., and is now stationed in Chu Lai, Viet Nam. He wishes to think everyone
for their cards and gifts he received during the Christmas holidays.”
March 10, 1966 – “Letter from Sgt. Charles CRUTCHFIELD
Received the Same Day as Death Message” – “The following letter was received
Tuesday, March 8 about noon by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hampsten, from their nephew,
Sgt. Charles CRUTCHFIELD:
March 3, 1966
- Dear Uncle Charlie & Aunt Lela; Hi – I do hope everybody is in the best of
health by now. I am doing just fine, a little tired. We got back 28 Feb. after
being gone 31 days in the field, and it was rough at times. In our Co., we had
8 killed and about 30 wounded in that big operation we were on. At times it
fired real close but I came out OK. My squad is the only one that haven’t lost
anyone yet. We are resting a little here in Chu Loi and we should be here a
couple of months. It is real hot and dry here. We have our tents on the beach
and the sand is real bad. A person can’t buy too much of anything around here
so I would like for you to send a few things. I would like you to send it air
mail and I will pay for everything, just let me know. I would like six rolls of
135 Roto color x-prints film, and a box of big flashlight batteries, jet black
Sheaffer ink cartridges for a ink pin, and a kool aid and something to eat.
Well that is about all for now. I have taken a few pictures and when I get them
back, I will send them to you. Write when you can. I do try and write as much
as I can. When we are out in the field, the mail might go out and it might not
– never know. Charles.
A few minutes after reading the above letter, about 12:30, Mr. and Mrs. Hampsten
received a phone call from a recruiting Sergeant from Centralia that Sgt.
CRUTCHFIELD had been killed near Chu Loi in Viet Nam. The officer arrived soon
after in the Hampsten home and reported that Sgt. CRUTCHFIELD had lost his life
March 5th, due to head, back and arm injuries. Charles, who was 22,
Jan. 13 of this year, had made his home with Mr. and Mrs. Hampsten the past ten
years. He is also survived by his father, Ed, of Salem; mother, Mrs. Arizona
Crutchfield; brother, Bill, and sisters, Judy and Glinda, Brush, Colo.”
March 24, 1966 - "Charles CRUTCHFIELD": "Sgt. Charles
CRUTCHFIELD, U.S.M.C., born Jan. 13, 1944, was killed in action while serving
his country in Viet Nam. Charles was fatally wounded in the Quangngai
military engagement with multiple wounds of the head, back and arm on March 5th.
He attended the KACHS and had service in the Marines for the past five years.
Charles was known throughout the county and was active in the county youth of
the Christian Churches before enlisting in the Marines. He was baptized in
the local Christian church, Nov. 12, 1959. He is survived by his father,
Ed of Salem, mother, Arizona of Brush, Colo., brother, Bill, sisters, Mrs. Judy
BASS and Mrs. Glenda BIRCH all of Brush, Colo. Funeral services were held
at the Kinmundy Grade Gymnasium Sunday, March 20 at 2:00 p.m., Brother Wesley
CORNELL, officiating. Burial was in Phillips Cemetery."
March 2, 1967 - "In Memoriam: In loving memory of
our nephew, Sgt. Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD, who was killed in action in Vietnam
March 5, 1966. Many a lonely heartache, often silent tears, but always a
beautiful memory of one we loved so dear. God gave us faith and courage,
to bear the parting blow, but what it meant to give him up, no one will ever
know. Sadly missed by Mr. and Mrs. Charles HAMPSTEN."
P.T. "Pete" Curley
"The Kinmundy Express"
- March 22, 1962 - "P.T. "Pete" CURLEY, 65, of Kinmundy, died
Thursday night, March 15 in his home after an illness of 6 years. Mr.
CURLEY was a retired assistant general foreman for the Illinois Central Shops
and lived in Centralia until moving to Kinmundy in 1955. Mr. CURLEY was
born in Nashville, Tenn., the son of Patrick and Mary (CONNORS) CURLEY. He
moved to Centralia in 1916......... and an Army Veteran of World War I......."
Bruce
Currie
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 20, 1968 – “(Alma News) Bruce CURRIE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight
CURRIE, received his draft notice and will leave on Thursday for induction into
the U.S. Army."
July 8, 1968 - "(Alma News) Bruce CURRIE, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Dwight CURRIE, is taking his basic training with the army at Fort Campbell, Ky."
Oct. 31, 1968 - "(Alma News) Sunday guests with Mr. and Mrs.
Dwight CURRIE were, Mr. and Mrs. Herb WILLIAMS, Carlyle; Mr. and Mrs. Carl
CHARLTON and family, Kell; and Bruce CURRIE, who is on a furlough until Nov.
12th."
Nov. 20, 1969 - "Bruce CURRIE, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Dwight CURRIE of rural Alma, who had been in the U.S. Army in Vietnam, and is
home on a furlough before leaving for duty in Colorado."
Harvey
Curry
“The Kinmundy Express”
April 29, 1954 – “AC3 Harvey CURRY, who has recently
returned from Korea, is visiting a few days with his grandmother, Mrs. Bertha
CURRY, before reporting to Tinker Field, Okla.”
June 28, 1956 - "Mrs. Cecil CURRY and son, Johnnie, of Chicago,
and AC/3 and Mrs. Harvey CURRY and baby of Scott Field, visited Sunday with Mrs.
Bertha CURRY."
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Edward L.
Cusac
“The Kinmundy Express” - Feb. 3, 2000 – "Air Force Airman
Edward L. CUSAC, Jr. has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air
Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. During the 6 weeks of training, the airman
studied the Air Force mission, organization, and customs and received special
training in human relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic
training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Comunity College of
the Air Force. CUSAC is the son of Edward L. and Linda L. CUSAC of 8505
Neal Rd., Kinmundy. The airman is a 1994 garduate of Fieldcrest High
School, Minonk, Ill., and a 1999 graduate of Illinois State University, Normal."
(V-478)
Marvin Dace with his wife, Edith
(Sullivan) Dace - taken in 1943
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Nov. 29, 1945 – “Shriver School: Marvin DACE, who is stationed in New York, and
wife of Calif., visited over Thanksgiving with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy
SULLIVAN and family. Other guests were Mr. and Mrs. William DACE and family of
Salem.”
Jim Davis
"The Kinmundy Express"
Sept. 2, 1971 - "Missing in
Action: Jean SCHOOLEY DAVIS, Decatur, received word Saturday that her husband
was missing in action in Vietnam. Mrs. DAVIS, is the daughter of Zetta
SCHOOLEY, formerly of Kinmundy."
Sept. 16, 1971 - "Winners of large
prizes at Hound Dog Meet: 1st - Jim DAVIS of Decatur - at time of drawing,
missing in action in Vietnam. Later report, found safe. His brother
is still listed at this time, missing in action in Vietnam. Jim's prize,
Outside Grill."
Roy W. Davis
"The Kinmundy Express"
March 9, 1944 - "Here's one from Pvt. Roy DAVIS, who
spent his boyhood days in our community, but is now sojourning in the state of
Texas. He says: 'It was good of you to include my name on the Home Town
Service Roll and send me the paper each week. While I have been away from
Kinmundy for several years, I have been able to keep in touch with affairs there
through the Express, and appreciate it even more now that I am in the service.
Kinmundy will always be my home town no matter how far war or business takes me
and it always near and dear to my heart. I enjoyed Leland ALDERSON's
letter in last week's paper about his basic training at Jefferson Barracks. It
was particularly enjoyable because Leland and I went through Grade School
together, and because my own basic training was very much the same as his.
We had one advantage, however, being down here in Texas. The weather was
and is good. Most of the time we don't even need jackets on as it is so
warm. Our barracks are heated by automatic gas heat, so we have no coal or
dust to worry about. But our training is equally rugged. Fortunately
I had only 6 weeks of regular basic training, and am now receiving my technical
training in Clerk's school. Our courses last 9 weeks and include Army
Regulations, Table of Organization of the Army, Military Correspondence, and a
study of the various forms used by the Army. It is really swell to be in
school again. In my "spare" time I manage to keep busy organizing a Sunday
School in our Battalion. It is the only one I know of in Army Camps.
As its president, I have had a splendid opportunity to work with the Chaplain
and have developed attendance to gratifying proportions. I'm hoping to be
permanently assigned to a Chaplain after my courses are over, so that I may
spend my full time in the work of the Chapel. My best regards to
folks "back home."
June 8, 1944 - "PFC
and Mrs. Roy DAVIS are the proud parents of a baby daughter, born June 4th at
Little Company of Mary hospital. She has been named Nancy Lynn."
May 17, 1945 - "Here's a dandy
letter from Sgt. Roy DAVIS of Camp Howze, Texas, dated 8 May. We believe
the most of you will remember Sgt. DAVIS as he was reared in this community.
He says: It is always a pleasure to get the Express and read of the
'goings-on' of the folks back home. You have maintained the paper at its
same high standard, and you deserve commendation for that, during these hectic
times. May 1st was my 8th wedding anniversary. Now I know it is
seldom the Army makes a fuss over such occasions, but they did on this one.
They came thru with another stripe on that day, so when I called Evelyn (my
g.m.) on the phone that night to have our little anniversary chat, I had good
news for her. I'm in a sort of predicament, however. Without my
actually having told him so, my little son has come to believe a Corporal
is the highest ranking fellow in the whole army. And now I'm going to have
to convince him that a Sgt. is even higher. Oh the faith of a little
child. Ha d a nice visit with Walter B. PRUETT during the few short weeks
he was Chaplain at this post. He is the first Kinmundy fellow I have run
across since I have been in the service and it sure was good to see him.
Too bad he was ordered overseas so soon as we had hopes of being together a lot,
and talking over old times. Regards and best wishes to all."
Dwight C. Day
"The Kinmundy Express"
Apr. 15, 1943 - "Dwight DAY Jr. of the U.S.N. is
home for a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY Sr. in Alma.
Dwight has been assigned to a radio school."
Sept. 30, 1943 - "Dwight DAY Jr. is here for a few
days awaiting further orders. Dwight just completed a special course in
radio at Great Lakes."
Oct. 14, 1943 - "Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY of Alma,
have received word from their son, Dwight, who is now located in Bainbridge
Island in Puget Sound. He will attend radio school there. Dwight was
a graduate of our local school this spring."
March 30, 1944 -
"The first letter this week was received
from Dwight DAY, RM3 c, who is looking over the grass skirts of Honolulu. He
says: Have been neglecting to let you know how much I appreciate receiving the
paper, so will attempt to do so now. Although it has been 2 months since I
received it due to moving so much. Received the back issues from my parents this
morning and enjoyed them very much. The scenery here as a whole is very
beautiful. Honolulu is not so much different than any other city except every
other store is a curio shop or an amusement house to catch the service man’s
eye, which consists mainly of sailors. Will close thanking you again for the
paper."
Dec. 27, 1945 – “Kathleen
BROWN and Dwight DAY Wed: Wearing a dressmaker's suit of turquoise, with a
corsage of pink sweetheart roses, Miss Kathleen BROWN, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E.E.
BROWN, of this city, became the bride of Dwight C. DAY of Alma The bridegroom
is home on leave after serving 16 months on Guam. The hour was 4:30
Friday afternoon Dec. 21, with Rev. Orlando
Brakemeyer, pastor
of the local Methodist Church reading the single ring ceremony before the fireplace in the bride’s home,
in the presence of the immediate family. the improvised altar, with
a background of Christmas pine, holly, white chrysanthemums and lighted candles
was very impressive. The attendants were
Miss Virginia BROWN, sister of the bride, wearing a black suit with a corsage of
American beauty roses, and Mr. Ralph DAY, brother of the bridegroom, wearing a business suit. After the
reception, the happy couple left for short trip in the northern part of the
state. They returned home Christmas Day. Both the bride and groom are graduates of our
local high school, Mrs. DAY with the class of 1944, and since then has been employed by Bell
Telephone Co. in Salem, and the groom
graduated with the class of 1942 and then enlisted in the Navy. Their
plans for the future are indefinite. The Express joins their friends here
and in Alma in extending hearty congratulations.”
Aug. 10, 1950 - "Dwight C. DAY, Jr. has received his
orders to report to Great Lakes training station August 19 and from there he
will be sent to Atak, Alaska, an island off the southwest coast of Alaska."
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. these can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F. MOTCH -
Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M. Co, Camp
Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F. HOYT -
545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Infantry
Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc. Paul
WEST - U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T. Sgt.
Marion M. HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord. MAM
Co.; Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
Dec. 13, 1951 - "To Receive Discharge: Mr. and Mrs.
E.E. BROWN received word this week from their son-in-law, Dwight DAY that he
will receive his discharge from the navy Dec. 18th. He is stationed near
Seattle, Wash. Mrs. DAY and son, Johnnie, have been with him for some
time. They will spend about a month touring the West Coast as well as the
southwest before returning home."
Jan. 10, 1952 – “Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY Jr. and son,
Johnnie returned home Saturday night from Bainbridge Island, Washington. He has
received his release from active duty in the Navy. On their way home, they
visited relatives in California, and the wonders of Grand Canyon.”
William
Ralph Day
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 13, 1942 - "Three More Boys in the Service:
Three more boys from this vicinity have been inducted into the armed forces,
viz., Zarold L. LEWIS, R.R. 1, Kinmundy, Robert G. MARSHALL, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Ira MARSHALL, Alma, and Wm. Ralph DAY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY, Alma.
these boys are now at the Reception Center awaiting further orders."
Apr. 29, 1943 - "Graduates: We have received word
stating that Ralph DAY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight C. DAY of Alma, has completed
his three months of schooling and was graduated from Officers Candidate Course
in Georgia. Ralph is now commissioned as a Lieutenant."
Dec. 30, 1943 - "Lt. Ralph DAY, of Alabama, has
enjoyed a few days here and in Alma, with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY."
March 30, 1944 - Mr. and Mrs. Melvin F. DAVIS of
Anniston, Ala., announce the engagement of their daughter, Margaret Frances, to
Lt. William Ralph DAY of Alma, Ill. wedding plans will be announced at a
later date. Miss DAVIS, a member of the National Honor Society, is a
native of Anniston and a graduate of Anniston High School where she was
prominent in social, dramatic and athletic activities. Lieutenant
DAY, formerly connected with the Texas Company, is the son of Mr. and Mrs.
Dwight C. DAY of Alma. He was recently stationed with the First Regiment
at Fort McCellan and is now taking flight training at Fletcher Field."
Sept. 14, 1944 - "Lt. and Mrs. Ralph DAY are
visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY, Sr., near Alma."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “1st Lt. Ralph DAY, wife and daughter, arrived in
Alma Oct. 8th to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY. Lt. DAY is home on Terminal Leave and will receive his discharge Nov. 15th.
Ralph entered the service in July 1942 and took his basic training in the
Infantry. After his basic, he was selected for Officers’
Candidate School and was commissioned in April
1948. On Dec. 31, 1948, he was transferred to the Air Corps and received his
wings in Sept. 1944. In April 1945, just as he was ready to ship overseas, he
was promoted to First Lieutenant. His group was split up then and he, nor
several of his buddies, had the privilege of flying over foreign soil. After
receiving his discharge, Ralph intends to go to Alabama where he will seek
employment.”
Apr. 18, 1957 - "Capt. and Mrs. Ralph DAY and
daughter of Rome, N.Y., and Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY and sons were Sunday dinner
guests of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY of Alma. Mr. and Mrs.
Claude RAINEY were afternoon visitors."
May 5, 1966 – “Mrs. Margaret DAVIS DAY, 41, passed away at her home in
Colorado Springs, Colo., April 26. Death was due to suffocation when her home
burned. Her husband, Major William Ralph DAY, a U.S. Air Force pilot, and a
former Alma resident, arrived in Colorado Springs on the 28th, from
Korea, where he was on duty. Funeral services and interment were in Anniston,
Ala., May 2nd…….”
Jan. 12, 1967 - "Mr. and Mrs. D.C. DAY took his
brother, Major Wm. R. DAY to Scott Air Force Base on Friday, where he left by
plane for his home in Colorado Springs, Colo., after having spent several days
with them and also in Alma with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY."
July 26, 2001 - (From his obituary): ... He was born June
29, 1921 in Alma, son of Dwight C. and Helen "Peggy" PURCELL DAY. He
married Margaret DAVIS in 1944, who preceded him in death. He later
married Jacquelyn L. CASSON in 1967......Mr. DAY served in the United States Air
Force for 20 years as a pilot and logged over 9000 hours in the air.
......"
Charles N. DeForde
"Depot, England - Modifications and repairs on more than
7,000 fighters and bombers - an all-time high for the number of
soldier-technicians engaged was the record 1944 production of the aircraft
hangars in England at which Sgt. Charles N. DeFORDE of Alma, Illinois is
serving, according to figures just released by headquarters of the Air Service
Command. Sgt. DeFORDE worked on almost every type of combat and
transport plane used in the European theatre of operations. Each plane
which was ferried to a front-line combat organization represented scores of
inspections, repairs, and structural improvements which increase the fighting
efficiency of our aircraft. Sgt. DeFORDE is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Nobe
DeFORDE, Alma. A soldier since Oct. 20, 1942, he has been overseas for 18
months. He attended Salem High School and was employed by the Salem Paint
and Glass Co."
Dec. 19, 1974 - "French Club Noel Party: The French
Club of K-A had their annual Christmas Party on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the Salem
National Bank Hospitality room. "Paris Specials" and other pizzas were
served. After eating, the former Master Sergeant, Charles N. DeFORDE, spoke of
his experiences while in France during World War II. ....."
Lowell Ivan DeVore
"The Kinmundy Express" - Dec. 3, 1942
- (From last week): "Here from Ohio: Pvt. Ivan DeVORE spent the weekend with his
mother, Mrs. Harry THOMPSON and family, returning to camp near Columbus, Ohio,
Monday."
"Farina News": "T. Sgt. Ivan DeVore, son of the late
Clarence DeVore and Mrs. Ella Thompson, was born Sept. 14, 1919, east of Farina.
After completing the grade school he worked on a farm, later learning the
carpenter trade. While engaged in this occupation at Hammond, Ind., he was
inducted into the army on Feb. 13, 1942. Ivan was placed in the air corps
and given intensive training in airplane mechanics. His basic training was
received at Sheppard Field, Texas and advanced training at Rantoul, Ill. A
specialized course was then taken at Akron, Ohio. Upon completion of this
course he was assigned to various air fields throughout the country and on May
15, 1943 he entered foreign service, landing in Australia. Ivan is now
stationed in New Guinea."
According to his daughter, Brenda (DeVore) Edwards, Ivan also served in
the Philippines.
Seth DeVore
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Sept. 5, 1918 - "Seth DeVORE, who has been visiting
here with his mother, Mrs. Harriett DeVORE, has bone to Camp Taylor where he is
in training."
Feb. 27, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Seth DeVORE
Charles T. DeWeese
"The Kinmundy Express"
Dec. 9,
1943: "Here’s one from Pvt. Charles DeWEESE, a
former Alma lad, who can’t tell us just where he is. But by putting everything
together, we would say that he was on one of those undiscovered islands in the
northwest Pacific. He says: I have been for quite some time intending to write
you, and let you know that I receive my paper pretty regular. I want to thank
you for it. I really do appreciate it very much to get the news from home, after
being out here where news are scarce, although some of them are late in reaching
me, it is good to get them. I am sorry that I can’t tell you where I am at as
that is strictly against regulations in some areas and this happens to be one of
them. As there is not much here to write bout. It would be hard to write about
it and keep within the rules. I have been here in complete isolation for the
past 18 months. The weather here some times gets pretty rough. I think they call
it the roughest in the world and I am beginning to believe it. There is no
civilization at all about as remote as it could get so you can kind of get the
idea of what I have here. This may not seem much but it’s about the extent of my
description of what it’s like. I’d like very much to get back to Marion county
for awhile, but that is hardly possible yet for awhile as we have quite a job to
do yet. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the Kinmundy Chamber of
Commerce for the cigarettes and send all of my friends my best regards and
wishing them all the boys a speedy return."
Sept. 7, 1944 - "Here’s a nice letter from Tec. 5, Chas.
DeWEESE, who is at present in the Aleutian Islands. He says: It’s been quite a
long while since I last wrote you, so will attempt to write a line or two. It
may not be much as news is pretty scarce out this way, but I will let you know
that I receive my paper regular and want to thank those responsible for it. It
is appreciated very much by all the boys. I suppose it is needless to try to
tell you about this part of the country. Most everyone knows all about it and
the weather. I think some of the boys from there have experienced it. I have
been out here for 27 months and I think there is more coming, just how much I
don’t know. I am hoping to get out of here pretty soon, for I think I’ve been
out of circulation long enough. (It’s really out too). I am ready any time for a
boat ride. (Ha). I read all the boys letters. It is good to see where they are
at and what’s going on with them. There have been a few who have been so
fortunate having a pretty tough time. They are doing a first class job of
cleaning out over there and if it keeps up they may all be home before too long.
Anyway, I wish them all the best. I hear it has been pretty dry back there. You
should of had some of the rain we have had. There has been a lot of it. I’ve
seen all kinds of weather in one day, leaving out only the warm I guess. I
haven’t had any summer since the year I entered the service. That was in ‘41. I
guess they still have it back there, don’t they? But so far, I have fared pretty
well. I’ll have to say so-long now. Here’s regards to everyone back there and I
hope to be seeing you soon. Thanks again for the paper."
Henry E. DeWeese
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Nov.
25, 1943 - "Volunteers: Royal Bruce OLDEN, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs.
Roscoe OLDEN, of this city, has volunteered his services and will leave with the
next group of Selective Service boys from this county. Henry Eugene
DeWEESE of Alma, is also a volunteer. Albert Jewell LUTTRELL, Kinmundy,
will also be among this group of boys when they leave."
Feb. 3, 1944 - "In the Service: Henry E. DeWEESE"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Henry E. DeWEESE"
Robert DeWeese
“The Kinmundy Express” – June 19, 1969 - "PFC Robert DeWEESE of Fort Leonard
Wood, Mo., is spending a furlough with his grandmother, Mrs. Naomi CHANCE.
Robert reports for duty June 23rd at Ft. Ord, Calif."
Eugene Dillon
“Marion County Express” - Kinmundy, IL – Dec. 12, 1918
– “In a letter to his grandmother, Mrs. Sara DILLON, Eugene DILLON of Farina of
the same Co. G., 130th Infantry says he came out with out a scratch. He
had been in active service sixty days without any rest. His letter was
dated Nov. 16."
Robert Disbrow
“The Kinmundy Express” – Aug. 21, 1969 – “Lt. Robert DISBROW is assigned to the
1st Infantry Division in Vietnam. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs.
Lewis Disbrow of Decatur. His wife, the former Kaye George, of Kinmundy, is
teaching 3rd grade at Excelsior South Grade School in Decatur.”
(V-245b) Beryl Diss
"The Kinmundy Express"
Dec. 31, 1942 - "Word has been received here stating
Beryl DISS has been promoted from Pvt. to Cpl. Beryl is in camp in La.
Congratulations."
Apr. 29, 1943 - "Sgt. Beryl DISS returned
Tuesday to Louisiana after a furlough, spent here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Orville DISS."
Dec. 9, 1943 - "A delicious dinner was served at
noon at which Mr. Cole and Sgt. Beryl DISS were also guests."
Jan. 13, 1944 - From J.N. Vallow's ZATSO column:
"And I might convey the information to Sgt. Beryl DISS that I believe his letter
did some good because the flag is now floating on the square. It has been
quite a task to get some one to take the responsibility of putting it up and
taking it down. But finally, at the last meeting of the City Council, they
put this on the shoulders of the chief of police. So everything is
honkey-dorey now."
May 4, 1944 - "Sgt. Beryl DISS came Wednesday for a
few days furlough. We know Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS are happy to have all
three of their boys at home."
May 11, 1944 - "Sgt. Beryl DISS and Miss Eileen
BRUBAKER were married in the Methodist Church in this city Wednesday. They were
attended by Mrs. Sherman TUCKER of Salem, friend of the bride, and Leland OLDEN,
friend of the groom. Several relatives witness the ceremony. The bride is the
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jess BRUBAKER residing east of Salem. She is a
graduate of Salem High School with the class of ‘38. She received her training
as nurse in the Olney Sanitarium and since her graduation, has been employed at
the Salem Hospital. The groom is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS of
this city, and a graduate of Kinmundy High School with the class of ‘38, and was
among the first of the boys to be called into service of this country. The
infair dinner was held Wednesday evening at the home of the bride’s parents.
Sgt. DISS will return to Texas Saturday accompanied by his bride, where they
will make their home for the time being."
Oct. 5, 1944 - "Mrs. Beryl DISS who has been with
her husband in Texas came here last week for a visit with Beryl's parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Orville DISS and Leroy."
Dec. 7, 1944 - From J.N. Vallow's ZATSO column: "And
that reminds me of another incident I hear of just this evening. Charley
GAMMON was telling me that they had a letter from his son, Charles Frederick,
who we all know as just plain "Fat", stating that Beryl DISS had been to see
him. These boys are in Italy. From the way I got it, Fat was in the
kitchen (he's the cook), and Beryl just walked in on him, knowing that he was
there, however. Don't you bet there was some hutting on right in broad
daylight there?"
Feb. 22, 1945 - "What a coincidence that we should
receive a letter the same week from two brothers. This one is from Sgt.
Beryl DISS, who is stationed in France. His letter was dated 31 January
and says: I wish to take this opportunity to thank you and everyone
else for the paper. I should have written to you before now, but just
haven't. I certainly enjoy it very much, also several of the boys in my
Section like to read it. I've got a swell bunch of boys in my section.
We are all about the same age. Several of them are from Illinois; one
being from Salem. How's everything back in the old town? I imagine
things are pretty quiet. I'll certainly be glad when we can all get back
there. I have traveled lots of miles, although not quite as many as some
of the boys. I've seen Fred GAMMON twice since I've been over here.
He is just fine and looks just like he always did. He is cooking and I ate
dinner with him the first day I was there. He is really a good cook, so
his wife won't have to worry about cooking when he gets home. He has been
moved but I know the name of the town he is in, so I'm looking forward to seeing
him again, as well as several other boys from home that are not too far from
here. I have also seen Burdette SWIFT and Glenn INGRAM. They are
both just fine and getting along sell. It really does a person good to see
some one from home. I would like very much to get up where my brother and aunt
are but don't know if I will or not. Well, I must close for now, but
again, I want to thank you for the paper. You are certainly doing your
part and also doing a grand job of it. Good luck, and here's hoping we can
soon personally come in and thank you."
Apr. 5, 1945 - "S/Sgt. and Mrs. Beryl DISS announce
the arrival of Danny Joe, 8 lbs. in the Salem Memorial Hospital, Thursday. The
proud daddy is now serving with Gen. Patches Seventh in France."
May 17, 1945 - "Mrs. Orville DISS received a
"Mother's Day Greeting" by cablegram from her son, Sgt. Beryl DIS, who is in
Germany."
July 26, 1945 – “Sgt. Beryl DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, arrived home Monday morning to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife
and son and parents. Sgt. DISS entered the service Nov. 11,
1942, and shipped overseas Oct. 5, 1944, landing in France. From there he went
to Luxembourg, then into Germany, and then into Austria. He served with the 5th
Division, 5th Quartermaster Corps. He landed back in the states on July 19.
After spending his furlough here, he will report back to Camp Grant and then be sent to Camp Campbell for further training.
Sgt. DISS wears the Good Conduct Medal, the European Theater of Operations
Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles East of the Rhine, West of the
Rhine, and Vosges Mountains. He also wears the
unit citation for meritorious service and the Leader in Combat Ribbon. On May
10, 1944, he was married to Miss Eileen BRUBAKER of Salem. They have a 4 month
old son, Danny Joe.”
Aug. 30. 1945 - "Sgt. Beryl DISS left Friday for
Fort Sheridan, Ill., for reassignment."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “Sgt. Beryl DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, returning home Tuesday morning after receiving his discharge at
Camp Campbell, Ky., the day previous. Sgt. DISS
spent almost 3 years in the army, and 9 months of this time was spent in the
European Theater. He landed back in the states July 19th and arrived home on
the 22nd for a furlough with his parents and his wife and son. Since the
expiration of his furlough, he has been traveling back and forth to Kentucky.
Sgt. DISS and his family have taken rooms with Mrs. Florence CONANT. He will
return to his old job in Salem.”
(V-218) Charles Diss
"The Kinmundy Express"
Oct. 7, 1943 - "Accepted for Service: We have been
informed that the following Kinmundy men have been accepted for service and are
now stationed in various camps: Woodrow WILKINSON, Thomas A. BOONE, Harry E.
GRAY Jr., and Manuel WELSH. Emmerson JONES was placed in the Navy and is
now in boot training. Charles DISS was supposed to have gone with these
boys but was granted a 30 day deferment by the local board on account of the
condition of his father, Orville, DISS, who was severely burned."
Nov. 11, 1943 - "Farewell Dinner: On Sunday, Oct.
31, a number of relatives met at the home of Beulah DISS in honor of Chas. DISS
who will soon be leaving for the army. All came with well filled baskets
and at the noon hour a delicious dinner was served cafeteria style. The
following were present: Mr. and Mrs. Jack DISS, Mrs. Leila HIRSCH, Mrs. Nora
ALBERT of Decatur; O.R. DISS and family, Chas. BLOMBERG and family, L.C. DISS
and family, Francis HAMMER and family, and Beulah DISS."
March 9, 1944 - "Here's one from Pvt. Charles DISS, who has
also been lucky enough to spend the most of the winter in California. He
says: 'I wish to take this opportunity to express my thanks for the paper.
It certainly nice to set down and read the news from the old home town after a
day out in the field. I have been intending to write over since I got the
first paper, but somehow or another they manage to keep us boys pretty busy
during our basic training. I imagine some of the boys who took their basic
here at Camp Roberts can verify my statement. So far I have seen very many
places of interest and I imagine in the next few months I will have really seen
some sights that will long be remembered. Oh yes, we have been having a
great abundance of the so called 'liquid sunshine' they speak of so often - especially the comedians on the radio. Even though it sounds funny
when they talk about it, it is just about the truth. We get a nice heavy
dew about every day. As for our trip out here, it was very enjoyable one,
especially for me, as I had hardly been out of Illinois. It took us three
days and three nights to make the trip and of course we were all anxious as to
where we were going and what branch of the service we would be put in. Of
course, there were rumors all the way out here but no one knew for sure.
However, when we reached Los Angeles on a Sunday night, we were assured we were
going to Camp Roberts. Then we were worried as we knew Camp Roberts was an
Infantry and Artillery Replacement Training Center. But it all worked out
pretty good. About half of the convoy were picked for the artillery and
the others got the infantry, of which none of them seemed very pleased. I
have enjoyed it all very much so far, of course, we all get pretty disgusted
sometimes when we get K.P. or have to stand guard in the rain, but we just have
to take it, as we know our boys over there would be tickled to death if that was
all they had to worry about. Since this is an artillery Replacement
Training center, we are almost assured of a nice little boat ride before long.
I had the opportunity to spend the weekend with a very nice family who lived in
Kinmundy about 12 years ago, the Clyde PRESTON family - know a lot of your folks
there, know them because they asked a great number of you. Clyde is my
Dad's cousin, so of course, they knew all of my relation. His wife had the
misfortune to lose her eyesight a few years ago and she certainly enjoyed
talking about the old hometown. They have 3 sons serving in the Navy.
One of which left just the day before I got there. They asked me to say
'hello' to all you folks for them. Again I want to thank you for the
paper, Norris, you are certainly doing a grand job by sending a paper to all the
boys and girls and I know they all appreciate it as much as I do. So long
for now and keep up the good work."
April 20. 1944 - "Pvt.
Charles DISS of Cal. writes to his parents that he spent Easter in Los Angeles
and Hollywood with his uncle, F.G. ARNOLD, S 1 c. He also met Fred WEAVER of
Farina, who is in the Navy. They also had breakfast at Sardi’s."
May 4, 1944 - "PFC Charles DISS of Texas arrived
home Saturday for a furlough."
Aug. 17, 1944 - "Here’s one from Pvt. Charles DISS,
who heads his letter, “Somewhere in England”. Hey says: Well, it’s been quite
some time since I have written, so since I have some time tonight, I thought I
had better write a few lines because we are pretty busy over here through the
week. I celebrated my first birthday out of the States yesterday and I must say
it was a very quiet one. We went on a sight seeing tour today and saw some,
very interesting places. We visited one famous old abbey and also an old
castle. The country is very beautiful around here in this section. It was sure
hard at first to drive on the left side of the road but we are getting
accustomed to it now and it isn’t so bad. They have very good roads but they
are sure narrow and have plenty of blind corners, but everything has gone O.K.
so far. On my trip over, the first night out I met Willard WILEY and also Harry
NORRIS, a boy from Salem, I knew. So we had a nice trip over and I have enjoyed
every bit of my journey so far. But we have a little ways to go yet that may
get a little tougher, but that’s what we are all here for and we are all anxious
to go ahead so we can soon start back to the good old U.S.A. Oh yes, when I
first got here in this camp, I met a lot of the boys I had taken basic training
with in California and I hadn’t seen them since we all left out there. It sure
was a surprise as they didn’t know where I had gone from out there and visa
versa. We had traveled quite a few males since we had seen each other. So we
are having quite a time over here in this jolly ole country, as these English
say. My APO has changed again since I left the States so I’ll enclose it.
Well, I guess this is all for now, so until the next time, Cherrio."
Sept. 28, 1944 -
"Here’s a nice letter from Pvt. Charles DISS, who is in France,
and from the way he writes, this country must be very interesting. He says:
Hello there and how is everything going? Just fine I suppose. I have been on the
go and haven’t done very much writing and I haven’t received any paper since I
left the good old U.S.A. But they should be catching up with me now as we are
settled for awhile and I do mean settled. We moved into a big old hotel
yesterday and it is really nice. There are 2 of us to a room, with nice double
beds, well, everything that a hotel has but running water and maids. But they
say on up at Paris, they even have that. It is certainly different than we have
been having. The French people are very different than what the English were. I
walked down through town this morning and almost all of them have come back now
and are fixing up their houses. We find a few who speak English, but as for most
of them, we have to use sign language. That is a rather slow procedure when a
fellow sees a nice girl and wants to get acquainted. But we usually manage,
somehow. There are lots of very nice looking girls, but I still say there isn’t
any like back in the states. As soon as we can go on up and take care of a
certain guy and his gang, I’ll be ready to come back to good old Kinmundy. So I
guess this is about all for now and I have to clean our room up so until next
time. So long for now. P.S. This hotel was very recently occupied by some guys
who left in a hurry to go toward home."
Oct. 5, 1944 - "Here’s another letter from Pvt.
Charles DISS, who is still in France. He says: Just a line to say, hello and
thank you again for the paper. I just received them a few days ago and even
though they were a couple of months old, they were still chuck full of news from
the old Home Town. Of course, there is plenty of news being made here where we
are, but there is nothing like news from home. Since I last wrote you, I have
seen much of the country here in France which you older fellows saw when you
were over here a few years back. Just the other day, we come through one of the
nicest towns I have yet seen anywhere over here. It might as well be called the
New York of France. It was really nicer than I ever expected to see. All the
French people seem very glad to see us. Even though they don’t speak English,
the majority of the children have learned to say, “any gum chum?” But to top
that off I read in the Stars and Stripes today where the German children have
also started it. That, I think, is one of the most well known slogans of this
war. Even though we don’t get a whole lot of it, it makes a fellow feel good to
give some little boy or girl a piece of gum or candy. Well, I guess this is
about all for now, so until next time. Bye for now."
Nov. 16,
1944 - "Here’s a nice letter from Pvt. Charles DISS, who is now in Belgium. He
sends us some of the money from that country, as well as Holland, which we have
added to our collection of foreign currency. He says: Just a few lines this
morning to say ‘hello’ and also send you a couple of pieces of this money that
we are using over here. This Belgium money is very much the same as French
money. The ten francs is worth approximately 22 cents of our money. The other
piece of money is some I got when I was over in Holland and is worth about 40
cents but is called 100 cents in their money. The Dutch also have a silver
dollar almost the same as ours which, is also called 100 pennies, but which is
worth only 40 pennies in our money. We thought at first in England when we were
using shillings that they were very hard to get accustomed to. I believe that
the French money was the easiest of them all to use. As for windmills and wooden
shoes, I didn’t see any sign of them at all while I was in Holland. A great many
of the French people and these Belgium people wear wooden shoes. They really
look clumsy but the people seem to walk along very nicely in them. I think the
people are far more advanced in every way here in Belgium than they were in
France and England. A person can walk down the street in any one of these large
cities and can see almost anything that would be seen on the main streets of
Boston, even to the ice cream parlors. We got our first ice cream here that we
have had since we left the States. It really hit the spot too. I was also saw
Luxembourg one day and that is really a beautiful country. They have a great
many pine forests there and the country is all hilly which adds to the scenery.
The people farm almost every inch of the land that is not in pine trees. Another
thing that sounded nice to us while we were in Holland was the greeting they
gave us. They all, even the little kids, said hello to us instead of the English
version which was, "Any Gum, Chum", and the French all said ‘Bonjour’ which
means hello. We also see a lot of the popular made cars around here which we
never saw in France. Also another that was nice to see was a Cocoa Cola sign as
we were going thru a very large town. But as yet, we haven’t been able to get
one. Well, I guess this is about all for now, so until the next time, bye now."
Jan. 25, 1945 - "Relatives have received word here
stating the Pvt. Charles DISS was permitted to spend a 3 day pass the last 3
days in the old year, with his aunt, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, who is stationed in a
Base Hospital in Belgium."
Feb. 22, 1945 - "Here's one from
PFC Charles DISS, who is stationed in Germany at the present time. His
letter was dated 3 February and says: "Hello there and how is everyone in the
old home town? Just fine I suppose and I am O.K. I just got some of
the papers this evening and was sure glad to get them. Some were about
three months old but there was still plenty of news, especially the letters from
the boys. They are really interesting. By the way, Norris, I sent
you a little souvenir the other day that I got when I was in Holland, but I
suppose it will take some time for it to get there as packages seem to travel
awfully slow, anyhow, it is on the way. I suppose you have plenty of snow
there. We sure did have a big one here but it is slowly leaving and I hope
we don't have any more. It used to be fun to play in, but over here, there
is no fun to it. But it sure will be bad when it does thaw out. I
sure hope this is all over with before too long and the news seem to be good,
but I suppose you folks get as much news as we do. We get our daily paper
the "Stars and Stripes". It is something to look forward to from day to
day to help pass the evenings which, are sometimes rather long. We
received our PX rations this evening and much to our surprise each man was given
a bottle of Coca-Cola. That is something very unusual over here. I
did, however, have some when I was on pass in Leige with my aunt. We
certainly had a nice visit and I hope we can get together again real soon.
But she has moved and it is rumored that we may, so I hope we can soon meet
again in the good old U.S.A. Well, I guess this is about all for tonight,
so bye for now."
March 15, 1945 - "A pair of wooden shoes arrived at
our office yesterday from Holland, sent by PFC Charles DISS. They were mailed
Jan. 13 and reached March 14. Thanks, Charles, we will keep them on display for
a short time before wearing them."
June 7, 1945 – “Pvt. Charles DISS’ Unit Receives Award of Meritorious Service Unit Plaque in
Germany: On May 8, the award of Meritorious
Service Unit Plaque, was made to the Service Battery, 751st Field Artillery
Battalion for Superior Execution of duty in the performance of exceptionally
difficult tasks. From 22 January to 31 March 1945, the Service Battery, 751st
Field Artillery Battalion rendered meritorious service in the accomplishment of
it’s numerous duties on the continent. Throughout this period, this unit
achieved and maintained a high standard of discipline and demonstrated superior
performance in every duty it was assigned. The conduct of the 751st Field
Artillery Battalion is in keeping with the high traditions of the military
service. PFC Charles DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, is a member of this unit and when he returns home, you will see him
wearing a Gold Wreath on his right sleeve.”
Feb. 7, 1946 –“PFC Charles DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, arrived home Jan. 30, after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant that
same day. Charles entered the service in Nov. 1943, and shipped overseas
July 23, 1944, landing in Scotland. From there
he went to France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg,
Holland, and then back into
Germany. He sailed from LaHarve Jan. 12 and landed in New York Jan. 23. PFC
DISS wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon and the European
Theater Ribbon with 4 stars representing the campaigns of northern
France, Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe.
He was also awarded the Meritorious Plaque. He came home with the 84th
Division. As to his future, Charles says he is undecided, but the first thing
he is going to do is just enjoy a good vacation.”
Feb. 7, 1946 –“A dinner was held Feb. 3 in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS
honoring their son, PFC Charles, who had just returned home from Germany. It
had been 21 months since he left Kinmundy. 35 relatives came with well filled
baskets. It was also the wedding anniversary of Orville and Bessie. A list of
those attending was included.”
Jack Diss
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 12, 1951 - "Rec. Jack DISS and Rec. Bill CARSON of Fort
Leonard Wood spent the weekend here with Jacks' aunt, Miss Beulah DISS, and
other relatives."
Jan. 8, 1953 – “Sgt. Jack DISS Gets Bronze Star Award:
Sgt. Jack D.
DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. L.M.
DISS of
Hooper, Colo., was awarded the Bronze Star medal by direction of the President.
A member of the 2nd Engineer combat battalion, 2nd
infantry division, he distinguished himself by heroism in action on Oct. 2, 1952
in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Sgt. DISS was serving as
assistant platoon sergeant with a platoon engaged in the tasks of improving the
defenses of Arsenal Hill. He was supervising the laying of a barbed wire
obstacle in front of the friendly position and within 100 yards of the enemy
positions, when the enemy suddenly unleashed a barrage of mortar fire upon the
work detail seriously wounding the 4 men with him. Sgt. DISS with complete
disregard for personal safety, remained in the open with his wounded men giving
such aid and comfort as possible and refusing to take cover of any sort until
the last man was removed to safety. Realizing the importance of the mission, he
returned that same night, under bright moonlight, and completed erection of the
obstacle. (From the Center, Colo. Post-Dispatch.)”
Darrell D. Diss
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 6, 1952 - "Mrs. Jackie HUMPHREY DISS spent the weekend with
her husband, Pvt. Darrell DISS in Camp Chaffee, Arkansas."
May 29, 1952 - "Pvt. Darrell DISS
spent the weekend with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lowell DISS. Mrs. DISS
accompanied him back to Camp Chaffee, Ark., where they will make their home at
present."
Aug. 21, 1952 - "Pvt. Darrell DISS
of Kinmundy, is a graduate of an Army Radio Operator School with the 5th
Armored Division, Camp Chaffer, Ark. During the 12-week school, students receive
instruction and experience to qualify them as low-speed radio operators with
small Army units. The final 2 weeks of the course are spent in the field
of practical operation of voice and code radio sets."
Oct. 16, 1952 - "Word has been
received by Mr. and Mrs. Lowell DISS, that their son, Pvt. Darrell DISS, has
arrived in Korea."
Feb. 5, 1953 – “Kinmundy Express Found on Sale in News
Stand in Korea by Darrell Diss: Jan. 27, 1953, Tuesday night 9 p.m.: Dear Mr.
and Mrs. VALLOW, Seven miles east of Seoul, Korea is the little boy who used to
stop in at the printing office when school was out on Thursday of each week and
ask for the Kinmundy paper. I sure do miss that. What I wouldn’t give to be
there right now where I could see good old Kinmundy anyway. I have been
intending to write sooner but I wanted to wait until I received all my Christmas
cards then write a thank you note at the same time. Well I think I have them all
now. I received the last one Jan. 15th, I do believe. I think I did
pretty good. I received a total of 63 Christmas cards. So I want to thank
everyone who sent the nice cards. It sure does mean a lot especially over here
in this God forsaken land. As I am the Unit Mail Clerk for the AG Office, I
always get my mail first. It sure is good to finger through the letters and see
Darrell D. DISS on one of them. It makes you think that you are more important
than the Commanding General, and he does get the bigger share of the mail. I
might tell you a little about my last journey over here. I left the states Sept.
20, 1952, and landed in
Inchon,
Korea Oct. 5, 1952. In 8 hours, I was at my destination which was 14 miles away.
So you see I had a nice long trip by the Korean Fast Express. It reminds me of
old Local IC No. 25. I am stationed 7 miles East of Seoul at the Rear Compound
of the 45th Infantry Division. I have a very nice job in the Adjutant
General Section. Just about like a Civilian Section. Just about like a Civilian
job, except you don’t have any very close friendly neighbors around. The food is
very good considering Army Cooking. We have three hot meals daily. The only
thing I don’t like about is that we sleep in tents, with a little old pot-belly
stove, and all is rationed, so there is not many times that we are very warm. I
really consider myself lucky though not to be up at the front lines. Back here I
have been on two patrols so far, and have only had three small raids so I am
lucky. Another thing is you can’t eat a meal without the fence being lined with
little Korean children and Mamasons screaming their heads off "Hello Chop Chop".
All the garbage we throw away they eat. It is really awful. It makes you realize
why we are fighting in Korea. I sure would hate for our country to be in this
shape. Well I am going to close this for now. I just wanted your to put a little
letter of thanks in the paper for me and also thank you for the Kinmundy paper.
Not many people have heard of Kinmundy, but they all read the Zatso, so the
Kinmundy paper is becoming quite popular over here. Oh yes, by the way, whenever
I get through with the paper, I always throw it way. Well we have Koreans who
burn all the trash and whenever they find magazines, papers, cigarettes, and
candy boxes, they always salvage them. I was walking the other the streets of
Seoul last Sunday and I stopped at one of their swanky newsstands, and I was
reading the sign. It said, you can get all your hometown newspapers here. I was
looking through the pile, and by golly they had the copy of the Kinmundy Express
for sale. So me feeling sorry for them I bought it for 1000 Won, which is 16
cents in Military Script. So this time I tore it up to make sure that no one
else bought it. I sure didn’t know they sold them or I would have torn them up
the first time. The Captain told me that is a good lesson to learn that we
should always tear up our Secret Material or they will salvage it. So it is
really a small world when you read your paper, throw it away and then buy it
back again just to tear up.
Thanks again for the Christmas cards and keeping the Kinmundy Express rolling.
As ever, Darrell D.
DISS.
P.S. I talked to George LAMBIRD last night by phone. Quite a surprise to both of
us. We are only 16 miles apart.”
March 26, 1953 – “Captain Pfc. Darrell DISS, who is
stationed in Yongdongpo, Korea, went to Pusan, Korea, March 17, and ate lunch
with Pvt.
Bob GEILER
and Pvt.
Charles BLOMBERG.
This is the first time Pvt. DISS has had the opportunity of seeing a fellow
Kinmundian since being sent overseas although he has talked via telephone to
George LAMBIRD who is stationed at Seoul.”
Apr. 23, 1953 - "Home from Korea: Darrell DISS is
enjoying a thirty day furlough in Rome, N.Y., with his wife. He is to be
stationed in the U.S. after his furlough is up."
June 11, 1953 - "Pfc. and Mrs. Darrell
DISS and son, Mark, are spending a few days here in the Lowell DISS and F.G.
ALEXANDER homes. Pfc. DISS is being transferred from Camp Crowder, Mo. to Camp
Atterbury, Ind."
Aug. 27, 1953 – “Cpl. and Mrs. Darrell DISS and son of
Camp Atterbury, Ind. spent the weekend here with their parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Lowell DISS and family.”
Nov. 12, 1953 – “Darrell DISS who has been stationed at Camp Atteberry,
Ind., received his discharge Saturday, Nov. 7, and with his wife and son will
make their home in Kinmundy for the present.”
(V-149) Darrin Diss
Darrin began basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C. in August
2007. He trained with the 187th Ordnance battalion as a humvee mechanic.
From there he was transferred to the 188th Military Police Company at Camp
Walker, South Korea for one year. After that, he finished his active duty
service with the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. Darrin
re-enlisted with the Army Reserves in 2012 as a heavy wheel mechanic with the
354th Military Police Company in St. Louis, MO for an additional three years.
Between active service and the army reserves, he spent eight years in the
service.
John H. Diss
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 28, 1967 - "Pvt. John DISS, Fort Monmouth, N.J. spent the
weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jack DISS."
Oct. 5, 1967 – “Army Private John H.
DISS,
22, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Diss, Kinmundy, completed a still picture
photographer course Sept. 22 at the
Army
Signal School, Ft. Monmouth, N.J. During the 13 week course, he was
trained in the techniques for taking black and white, and color photographs of
both ground and aerial subjects."
Lowell Diss, Jr.
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 6, 1949 - Junior DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lowell DISS, left
Sunday for St. Louis where he enlisted in the navy. On Monday he was sent
to San Diego for training."
Apr. 21, 1949 - "Junior DISS, A.S., left Thursday for San Diego,
Calif. after spending this leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.C. DISS."
Oct. 20, 1949 – “Lowell Junior DISS, 19, EM, FA, U.S.
Navy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lowell
DISS, has graduated from the
Electrician Mate School, U.S. Naval Training Center at
San Diego,
Cal.
Junior rated second highest of his class with an average of 86.67. He entered
navy service Dec. 16, 1948 at Mt. Vernon, Ill. He has now been assigned to an
oil tanker USS Canister 99 at Norfolk, Virginia. He will sail for Naples, Italy
on Oct. 28.”
June 8, 1950 - "Lowell DISS, Jr. of Norfolk, Va., is spending two
weeks leave from the Navy with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.C. DISS."
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. these can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F.
MOTCH - Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M.
Co, Camp Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F.
HOYT - 545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd
Infantry Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc.
Paul WEST - U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T.
Sgt. Marion M. HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord.
MAM Co.; Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
Jan. 4, 1951 – “ Lowell DISS, Jr., of the U.S. Navy, was a guest of honor
Monday at a basket dinner held at the Christian church. Junior is on a week’s
leave. Present were Mr. and Mrs. Lowell DISS and family, Mr. and Mrs. Orville
DISS and family, Mr. and Mrs. J.H. DISS and family, Miss Beulah DISS, Mr. and
Mrs. Charles DISS and daughter of Salem, Mr. and Mrs. Francis HAMMER and
daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Charles BLOMBERG and family, Mrs. Gertie SHAFFER, Mr. and
Mrs. Noel SHAFFER and family, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette SHAFFER and family, Miss
Joan JUSTICE and Miss Jacquelyn HUMPHREY.”
June 7, 1951 - "Mr.
and Mrs. Lowell DISS and son, Mrs. JUSTICE and daughters of Centralia, spent the
weekend in Norfolk, Va., with Lowell DISS, Jr., who is stationed there with the
Navy."
Oct. 4, 1951 – “Junior DISS, EM3C, arrived home
Wednesday on a 14 day furlough. He is visiting his wife and his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Lowell
DISS.”
Dec. 11, 1952 – “Lowell DISS, Jr. EM 2c, who for the
past 4 years, has been serving in the U.S. Navy, arrived in Norfolk, Va., Dec. 5th,
where he received his discharge. He arrived in Kinmundy Dec. 6. Mr. DISS and his
wife now reside in Salem.”
Michael H. Doeden
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 8, 1977 - "Airman Michael H. DOEDEN, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Hilrick DOEDEN, Sr. of Kinmundy, Ill, has been assigned to Chanute AFB,
Ill., after completing Air Force basic training. During the 6 weeks at
Lackland AFB, Tex., the airman studies the Air Force mission, organization and
customs and received special instruction in human relations. Completion in
this training earned the individual credits towards and associate in
applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Airman DOEDEN will now
receive specialize training in the aircraft equipment maintenance field.
The airman is a 1977 graduate of Bremen High School, Midlothian, Ill."
May 22, 1980 – Mr. and Mrs. Hilrick DOEDEN, Sr., of our city, received
word of the promotion of their son, Michael, to the rank of Senior Airman E-4 in
the U.S. Air Force Peterson Air Force Base, Peterson, Colorado. Michael and his
wife, Denise, reside in Denver Springs, Colorado.”
Ernest Donoho
"Ernest Lloyd DONOHO, 19, S 1/c, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse DONOHO,
Salem is shown inspecting the bulletin board of the Army-Navy USO in Honolulu,
T.H. DONOHO, a graduate of Salem community high school, entered the
Navy in 1945. He completed the Navy's electronics maintenance school,
Aiea, T.H., and from there was assigned to Pacific Fleet headquarters at Pearl
Harbor as a radio technician."
James Donoho
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 23, 1943 – Receives Greetings: James
Eugene DONOHO and Lewis Chester PERRY have received orders to appear for
induction into the Armed forces along with 46 other boys from the Salem area.
June 29, 1944
- "Here’s one from James DONOHO, S2 c who is stationed along the coast of
Virginia. He says: I have been getting your paper for some time and certainly
enjoy reading it. I had no idea just how much the news meant until I got away
from home and couldn’t hear it first hand. I’ve intended to write you before,
but I have been pretty busy up to now. I have an easy job now, of course it is
only temporary. We’re just marking time until they get ready for us to go to
sea. I especially enjoyed the paper this week, as it was the first I’ve
received for a few weeks, although I was sorry to hear of the death of Major
JOHNSON. I didn’t know him personally, but he was some one from home. I enjoy
the letters from the other fellows very much. It’s next to best to a chat on
the street corner. Until I can tell you in person, I want to say “Thanks you
are doing a swell job.”
May 23, 1946 - "James
DONOHO, 32, and his wife, the former Thelma BRIMBERRY, 28, were killed instantly
in a car wreck near Compton, Ill., Sunday afternoon about 5:30. Their 10 year
old son, Gene, was in the car but received only a minor scratch on his leg. Mr.
DONOHO’s mother, Mrs. Gracen PARKER, residing west of Alma, received a fractured
skull and is in a serious condition in the Mendota Hospital. This family in
company with Mr. DONOHO’s sister, Mrs. Sam McLean, of Rochelle, Ill. had spent a
week’s vacation in Jackson, Mich. with a brother and son, Hansel DONOHO and
family. They were returning to their home in Salem and had returned Mrs. McLEAN
to her home in Rochelle. According to the story gathered by relatives from here
who went to the scene of the accident as soon as they were notified. Thelma was
driving the car. It was pouring rain and they were meeting a car driven by
Harland HUTCHINS, Mendota. This car was over the line too far and Thelma applied
her brakes which caused her car to skid and the HUTCHINS car hit them broadside.
Mrs. HUTCHINS, who was with her husband, was also killed, and Mr. HUTCHINS is in
serious condition in the Mendota Hospital. The bodies of Mr. and Mrs. DONOHO
were brought here Monday night to the Linton Funeral Home. A double funeral
service was held in the High School Gym yesterday. Interment was in Evergreen
Cemetery. James served as Seaman 1st Class in the navy for 3 years and saw
service in the Southwest Pacific. He was discharged last December and since that
time has been employed by the Warren Petroleum Co., of Salem. Mrs. DONOHO
was employed by the Resnick Mfg. Co. of Salem. Since their marriage, this couple
made their home in this city until soon after James left for the Navy, when Mrs.
DONOHO and son moved to Salem so as to be close to her work."
Lynn Donoho
“The Kinmundy Express” – Oct. 30, 1969 - "Mrs. Herbert VANDEVEER attended the
funeral services in Salem on Friday for Pfc Lynn DONOHO, who was killed in
Vietnam."
Robert Gene Donoho
"Robert Gene DONOHO, 20, Radioman 3/c, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse DONOHO,
rural route 1, Salem, in 15 months overseas with a destroyer acquired six battle
stars, and was with the USS Oberrender when it was sunk off Okinawa by a Jap
suicide attack. In the service since Nov. 11, 1942, Donoho recently spent
a 30-day convalescent furlough in Salem with his parents, and is now at the St.
Louis Navy recruiting station awaiting orders. He has two brothers, Ernest
and Dennis of Salem."
Robert F. Donoho
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 30, 1964 – “Begins Basic Training: Robert F. DONOHO, 21, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Pat ALBERT DONOHO, of Alma, IL, has begun basic training at the Naval
Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill. The 9 week training includes naval
orientation, history and organization, seamanship, ordnance and gunnery,
military drill, first aid and survival. During the training recruits receive
tests and interviews which determine their future assignments in the Navy. Upon
completing the program they are assigned to service schools for technical
training or to ships and stations for on-the-job training in a Navy rating
specialty. Naval training produces the power in seapower by supplying qualified
personnel to man the ships, planes and shore stations of today’s Navy.”
Nov. 25, 1965 –“Aviation Electrician’s Mate Airman
Robert H. DONOHO, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Donoho of
Alma, is participating in the
U.S.
First Fleet’s training exercise Nov. 18-24 while serving with Patrol Squadron
19. The week long exercise off the coast of Southern California involves
ships of the First Fleet and several Naval air units, comprising "friendly"
forces, in serial reconnaissance, anti-air and anti-submarine warfare operations
against the "enemy" air, surface and sub-surface units portrayed by other Navy
units. The exercise will increase the combat readiness of the First Fleet.
Exercise 'Range Bush' is under the overall command of the First Fleet Commander,
Vice Admiral Lawson P. Ramange, USN. His squadron files aerial reconnaissance and ship surveillance missions.”
May 9, 1968 – “Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second
Class Robert F. DONOHO, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick A. Donoho of Alma, and
husband of the former Miss Myra J. Becktell of Salem, participated in the
celebration of Helicopter Attack Squadron Three’s 1st anniversary of
Vung Tau Airfield, Vietnam. The squadron, better known as “Seawolves”, provides
support for the River Patrol Boats and
Sea
Air Land units. Together they prevent the enemy from moving men and supplies by
water in the Mekong Delta. The squadron also patrols and protect the main
shipping channels of the Run Sat Special Zone leading to
Saigon.
The “Seawolves” secondary mission is to provide cover for troop convoy or ship
movement, gunfire spotting for Army and Navy artillery or Navy ships, and
medical evacuations. The squadron is the first known aviation organization to
be commissioned in a war zone.”
May 23, 1968 - "AE/2 Robert F. DONOHO of the U.S. Navy,
arrived in the States last Thursday from Vietnam where he has spent the last
year. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Pat DOHOHO."
Leo E. Donovan
"The
Kinmundy Express”
April 13, 1944 - "Here’s one from Clifton LEMAY, who
is down in Arkansas. He says: I am writing you to let you know how much I
appreciate the paper you are sending me. I look forward to getting it, and it
sure makes one seem right at home when he can read the news of his own
hometown. I am very fortunate having a good commanding officer, Capt. Leo E.
DONOVAN. I happened to work under Captain DONOVAN where he was working on the
Illinois Central R.R. I had a surprise Sunday when Fred GAMMON came over to
spend the afternoon with me. Well, Norris, I guess I will have to close as it
is getting late. I want to thank you again for the paper and the trouble you
have to go through with to make it possible for us boys and girls in the service
to get the paper."
July 6, 1944 - " Mrs. Leo DONOVAN, who has been
visiting her husband, Capt. DONOHO, in Arkansas, came Tuesday to visit a few
days here with her mother and sisters, Mrs. Margaret O'BRIEN and daughters,
Cornelia and Amelda. She was enroute to her home in Springfield and was
accompanied here by her sister, Mrs. Josephine SNOW, of East St. Louis."
Aug. 12, 1944 - "Mrs. Leo DONOVAN of Springfield
received word that her husband, Capt. DONOVAN has arrived safely overseas. She
also heard in a round about way that he broke his arm on his way over."
Nov. 23, 1944 - "Word has been received here that
Capt. Leo DONOVAN is now in a hospital in France, recuperating from a broken arm
received while on a ship going across."
Aug. 22, 1946 - "Major and Mrs. Leo DONOVAN of
Springfield are here visiting her mother, Mrs. Margaret O’BRIEN and family. He
recently returned home from the European Theater and is now on Terminal Leave."
April 13, 1950 - "Leo DONOVAN Stepped Up: Mr. and
Mrs. Leo DONOVAN spent the weekend here with homefolks enroute from Clinton to
Paducah, Ky, where Mr. DONOVAN will be Division Engineer for the Illinois
Central Railroad, succeeding C.J. CARNEY, deceased. Mr. DONOVAN began his
Illinois Central service in 1921. He has served as an accountant, timekeeper,
clerk and foreman. In 1938, he was loaned to the government during the
construction of Chanute Air Force Field near Rantoul, returning to the railroad
the following December. He served with the railway battalions in the European
Theater during WWII from 1943 to 1946, and returned as track supervisor in
Springfield. In 1949 he was named Division Engineer of the Springfield
Division at Clinton, and on April 1, was named Division Engineer at Paducah,
Ky. Mr. DONOVAN attended the Chicago Technical School and was married to the
former Marie O’BRIEN of this city in 1938. Congratulations, Leo, and we
hope you keep right on climbing."
Arthur
H. Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 15, 1948 - "Now here is a short note from Capt. Arthur H.
DOOLEN, who didn't really take Jim Posey's advice several years ago which was
"Buy the 100 acres and see the world." But Art joined the army and is now
seeing the world. Here is what he says:"Well here I am in Hoechst,
Germany, about 6 miles from Frankfurt. Bombers leveled about 60% of
Frankfurt, but in Hoechat, they didn't hit a building. We had a very good
Christmas. The winter has been very mild to date. Some snow.
Can't say much for Germany. Not much left over here. These people
sure are licked. There is no starving over here as I can see. The
kids are well dressed. The Germans brought everything to Germany from France and
other countries when they were in power."
Jan. 22, 1948 - "Capt. Arthur DOOLEN Responsible for Christmas
Party in Germany: We received a clipping this week from the weekly newspaper of
the Military Post in Frankfort, Germany, from Mrs. Myrtle DOOLEN, in Flint,
Mich., which is as follows: “5410 orphans and school children were fed in
Hoechst, Germany, Christmas with their ages ranging from 5 to 14 years, at the
military and civilian personnel station in Hoechst, Germany. All units in the
Hoechst area cooperated to make the party a success. A large individual share
of the sub-posts preparation for the food was done by Capt. Arthur DOOLEN, of
the 7745 HQ and Serv. Co. The Red Cross helped distribute the food."
Sept. 2, 1948 - "Capt. Arthur DOOLEN left Tuesday morning for Cameron,
Mo. after spending the past two weeks with his mother, Mrs. Myrtle DOOLEN. He
will spend a few days with his family in Cameron and then report for duty at
Fort Riley, Kan."
Sept. 27, 1951 – “Mrs. Myrtle DOOLEN has received word
that her son, Capt. Arthur DOOLEN, who has been a patient at the
Fort
Riley,
Kansas hospital for 17 weeks, has been moved to the
Fitz
Simmons Hospital in Denver, Colo. Capt. DOOLEN is suffering from a blood clot
in his leg.”
Dec. 13, 1951 - "Arthur DOOLEN, son of Mrs. Ed DOOLEN, arrived
home Saturday for a few days visit, he has been a patient in the Fitzsimmons
Hospital in Denver."
(V-30a) Bennie and Pauline Doolen
on their wedding day -
Aug. 29, 1943
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 12, 1942 - "Bennie
DOOLEN left Wednesday after spending a week with his parents and friends. He is
stationed at Great Lakes, Ill."
Aug.
26, 1943 - "Bennie DOOLEN
AM 3 c of Washington, is spending a 15 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
W.R. DOOLEN."
Sept.
2, 1943 - "Miss Pauline PURCELL Becomes the Bride of Bennie DOOLEN
AM3c Sunday afternoon: On Sunday, Aug. 29 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight C.
PURCELL near Alma occurred the quiet, but impressive wedding of their daughter,
Pauline, to Bennie DOOLEN, A.M. 3/c of the U.S. Navy. the single ring
ceremony was performed by the Rev. L.E. HARD, Pastor of the Alma Methodist
Church, in the living room which was tastefully decorated with garden flowers.
The attendants were Miss Maxine PURCELL, sister of the bride, and Charles
DOOLEN, brother of the groom. the bride wore a powder blue with navy blue
accessories and a pink and white corsage. The groom was attired in his
regulation dress uniform. Those attending the ceremony were the immediate
members of the families of the bride and groom. After the ceremony
refreshments of cake and ice cream were served by the bride's mother assisted by
her daughter, Miss Marilyn. The bride, a graduate of Salem High School,
has been employed in Chicago the past year. The groom is the eldest son of Mr.
and Mrs. William R. DOOLEN of this city, and a graduate of Kinmundy High School
with the class of ‘41. The young couple left Tuesday for Washington, where the
groom is stationed. We hope to be able to give you the address of this
happy couple in our next issue. We join their many friends in extending
hearty congratulations."
Sept. 9, 1943 - "The
many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Bennie DOOLEN will be pleased to know that they are
now at home in Seattle, Wash."
Feb. 24, 1944 - "We have received word that Benny
DOOLEN, AM3 c, has been promoted to Aviation Metalsmith 2c. He is stationed at
Atlanta."
Apr. 13, 1944 - "AM 3 c and Mrs. Bennie DOOLEN of
Washington arrived Saturday to visit their parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN and
Lela Mae and Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL and family in Alma."
Apr. 20, 1944 - "AM 2 c and Mrs. Bennie DOOLEN have
returned to their home in Seattle, Wash. after a short visit here with their
parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN and Mr. and Mrs. D.C. PURCELL of Alma."
Jan. 18, 1945 - "MM1/c Bennie DOOLEN and wife arrived
Thursday to visit their parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN and family of this
city and Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL and family of Alma."
Feb. 1, 1945 - "Bennie DOOLEN, AM1 c, and wife left
last Friday for their home in Seattle, Wash., after spending 3 weeks with their
parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN, and Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, near Alma."
June 14, 1945 - "Mr.
and Mrs. Bennie DOOLEN are rejoicing over the arrival of an 8 lb. son born
Friday, June 8 in the Salem Memorial Hospital named Stephen Carl."
Jan. 17, 1946 –“Bennie DOOLEN, Aviation Metalsmith 2nd class, wife and son,
Stephen Carl, arrived here last Friday and are now at home with their parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. R. DOOLEN, of this city, and Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, of
Alma. Bennie entered the navy Oct. 1, 1942, and received his boot training at
Great Lakes. He was then sent to Seattle, Wash., then to Carvallis, Ore., then to Bend, Ore., and
then back to Seattle. Here he remained until receiving his discharge on Dec. 10
at Puget Sound Navy Yards, Bremerton, Wash. On Aug. 29, 1943, he
married Miss Pauline PURCELL of Alma. As to his future, Bennie says he has
traveled from the east to west coast and the best place he has seen yet is
Kinmundy. And so now it is his intention to go into business with his father.”
Bryan Doolen
“Marion County Express” - Kinmundy, Ill.
Aug. 8, 1918 - "Bryan DOOLEN was in Salem Tuesday to
enlist in a special call for radio operators."
Aug. 15, 1918 - "Will Train in Chicago: Bryan DOOLEN
and Clay SIMER departed Wednesday for Salem whence they will go to Chicago for
special training in wireless and mechanical work under direction of the U.S.
government. Bryan will enter Northwestern University for work in wireless
and Clay will enter Lewis Institute for mechanical instruction. Both of
these boys were in the class of 1918 registrants and preferred not to wait for
their call but went a the first opportunity. The former is a son of Mr.
and Mrs. E.W. DOOLEN and the latter is a son of Mr. and Mrs. W.J. SIMER and
their great host of friends wish them well on their trip to Berlin."
Dec. 26, 1918 - "Sergeant Bryan DOOLEN arrived
Sunday morning from Evanston, where he had been a student in the U.S. radio
school at Northwestern University. He has been honorably discharged and
will no doubt re- his place among us to which we welcome him. He enlisted
last September and his rapid rise to a sergeant foretold for him a successful
army career. Certainly the same success will attend his future efforts."
Jan. 9, 1919 - "Bryan DOOLEN and Clay SIMER departed
Tuesday evening for St. Louis, where they will seek employment after a short
rest from their Army service."
(V-310) Carl G. Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 15, 1942 - "Boys Leave for Camp: Carl and Roy DOOLEN,
Bill GARRETT, Marvin BASSETT, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Willard WILEY, and Merle
SCHNEIDER, left Tuesday night for camp. D.A. ARNOLD, who was released a
few weeks ago on account of being over 28, was recalled and left Sunday night.
Arthur BOYD, Charles KLINE, Paul WRIGHT and Louie Soutier are in St. Louis today
where they are receiving their final physical examinations."
Jan. 21, 1943 - "M.
Sgt. Carl DOOLEN is home enjoying a visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleve
DOOLEN. He is located in Washington, and inducted into the army a year
ago."
Jan.
28, 1943 - "Swift: Around 60 neighbors and friends gathered at the
home of Cleve DOOLEN last Friday night to give a surprise farewell and birthday
party for M. Sgt. Carl DOOLEN. A long table in the basement was loaded
with good things to eat, which every one enjoyed. Those from a distance
attending were Mr. and Mrs. Dresden HEADLEY of Salem, Gilbert DOOLEN and family
of Kinmundy, and Cecil GARRETT and family. Sgt. DOOLEN returned to
Washington, Saturday."
Aug. 13, 1943 - "Carl
DOOLEN, who is stationed at Ft. Lewis, Wash., has had 2 promotions here of
late. On July 10, he was made a Staff Sergeant and last week he was made a
Sergeant Major."
Aug. 2, 1945 – “Carl
DOOLEN now Sergeant Major" - "Somewhere in the Netherlands East Indies - M. Sgt. Carl G.
DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. G.C. DOOLEN, Kinmundy, is now assigned as sergeant
major at the 27th General Hospital, one of the largest and busiest general
hospitals in Dutch New Guinea, handling battle casualties from the Philippines
and other combat areas. The current daily average of patients in the hospital
in which Sgt. DOOLEN is now on duty is over 2000 although it was originally
organized for 1500 patients. A total of 18,000 patients have been handled by
the hospital. Sgt. DOOLEN, a graduate of Kinmundy High School and Brown’s
Business College, Centralia, entered the army in
Jan. 1942, and received basic training at Fort Riley, Kan. Overseas since Jan. 1944,
Sgt. DOOLEN was employed by the Adams Oil and Gas Co. in Centralia before
entering the Army.”
Jan. 17, 1946 –“Sgt.
Carl DOOLEN Home: Sgt. Carl DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. G.C. DOOLEN, arrived home
New Year’s Day after receiving his discharge at Jefferson Barracks the day
previous. Carl entered the service Jan. 14, 1942, and shipped overseas Jan. 5,
1944, landing in Australia. From there he went to New Guinea and then to the
Philippines. He landed back in
the U.S.A., Dec. 21. Sgt. DOOLEN wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory
Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 1 star
representing the New Guinea Campaign, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon and a
Bronze star awarded for Meritorious Service in Hollandia, New Guinea. In all
probability, Carl will resume his duties his duties with the Shell Oil Co. in
Centralia.”
Jan. 24, 1946 –“A picture was printed of Sgt. Carl G. DOOLEN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. G.C. DOOLEN, who arrived home New Year’s Day after serving 2 years in the
Asiatic-Pacific Theater.”
(V-197) Charles L. "Tog" Doolen - 1944
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 29, 1943 - "Leon JONES, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Edgar JONES, and Charles Lee DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN, were in
Rantoul Monday taking the mental and physical examination for the Army Cadet
School. This is a reserve unit and the boys both seniors of our local High
School are supposed to be able to finish this school year, but they are in the
reserve and subject to call any time."
Dec. 30, 1943 - "Charles Lee DOOLEN, S3/c, is here
visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN. Charles has just finished
his boot training at Great Lakes."
Nov. 2, 1944 - "Charles Lee DOOLEN, R.M.2/c left
last Friday for California to resume his duties in the Navy. He was
accompanied as far as St. Louis by his mother and sister, who visited with
relatives, Mr. and Mrs. Ira WILLIAMS and son."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “Charles DOOLEN, ARM3c, arrived here Monday to spend a 30 day leave with his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN. He landed in the states Oct. 8th. He has been flying
from the carrier, USS Anzio and has been to
China, Japan and Korea.”
Nov. 22, 1945 – “Charles L. DOOLEN, ARM3c, left last Wednesday for St.
Louis after spending a leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN and
daughter, Lela Mae. He was assigned to the Seattle Navy Air Base, the same base
where his brother, Benny, is stationed. Naturally, he looked up Benny upon his
arrival there and this was the first reunion of these brothers for 3 years.”
Earl W. Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 24, 1944 - "(East Meadow Branch): Mr. and Mrs.
Earl DOOLEN and son, Ronnie of Maywood, came Friday night and spent the weekend
with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.J. BAYLIS and near Arnold Chapel with
relatives. They were accompanied home Sunday evening by Wesley Dean and
Patricia Ann who had spent the summer with their grandparents. Earl will
enter the army Friday."
July 19, 1945 - "(East Meadow Branch): Pvt. Earl
DOOLEN and wife came Saturday morning for a weekend visit with their children at
the home of their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. A.J. BAYLIS."
Aug. 9, 1945 - "Cpl. and Mrs. Earl W. DOOLEN spent
the weekend with their children at the home of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.J.
BAYLIS. Mr. and Mrs. R.W. BAYLIS and children and Mr. and Mrs. H.H.
HOWELL and children spent Sunday there also."
Jan. 24, 1946 –“T5 Earl W. DOOLEN received his discharge Jan. 4 at Jefferson
Barracks, Mo. Earl entered the service on Aug. 25, 1944, at Ft. Sheridan, and received his basic
training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo, and was attached to the 1758th Engr. Base
Depot as a Supply Clerk. He was shipped overseas Aug. 30, landing on Saipan.
He started home Dec. 11, landing at Santa Ana, Calif., Dec. 24th. T5 DOOLEN
wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Ribbon
and the Asiatic-Ribbon. Prior to entering the service he was employed at the
Dodge Chicago Plant Division of Chrysler Corp. He is now home with his family
and in the near future intends to go to school.”
Jan. 31, 1946 –“T5 Earl W. DOOLEN, who was discharged
Jan. 4, after seeing service on Saipan. He is now at home here with his wife
and children.”
(V-3) B. Frank Doolen
"The Kinmundy Express" - Oct. 6, 1917
- "Corporal Frank DOOLEN, Private Will NEAVILL returned home Sunday from Chicago
where they have been on strike duty with Co. L. 9th Reg. I.N.G. and will remain
indefinitely."
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 16, 1919
France, Dec. 20,
1918
Dear Dad,
We arrived at Aix Le Bains this evening and so far have found it to be a swell
place. It is located east of Lyons if you want to locate it on the map. We
left Pont Mousson Wednesday morning and went over to
Nancy where we stayed until yesterday evening. Got a
good bath and what clean clothes needed there. One of the finest bath rooms and
pool I have ever seen. Sure was swell. The Y.M.C.A. has charge of it. They
took us to hotels when we got there. Have a swell soft bed. Don’t know how I
will be able to sleep in it but it sure looks fine. Most of the entertainment
here is furnished by the Y. I think I told you I was going on my seven days
leave. Well the seven days didn’t start until we arrived here so the time
coming and going don’t count. That will mean almost two weeks away from the
Battery. I thought
I was lucky to be among the first fifteen to get to go on leave. Only fifteen
can go at a time that is out of each Battery. There sure is some fine natural
scenery thru this country. The mountain scenery is great, or at least I think
so. Am not sure but think it is part of the Alp mts. Can tell you more about
it next time as I haven’t been around any yet. Just came over to the Y.M.C.A.
Sure have a swell Y. We had a good supper at the hotel. I didn’t know what
part of it was but it was good just the same. This trip is free. All expenses
are paid. Of course, there is plenty one can spend his money for but all
necessary expenses are paid. Train fare and hotel bills. How are all the
folks? I was about to forget to ask. I am alright and hope every one at home
is. Don’t know when I will ever get home but we don’t want to think of that to
soon. Don’t expect me until you see me coming because it may be some time
before I get there. This is about all I have to say tonight, must go try my bed
as I am a little tired after being on the train for about twenty-four hours.
These trains aren’t so comfortable as ours in the States. We didn’t have a
birth.
Your son, Pvt. B.F. DOOLEN
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois
April 8, 1919 - "A message received here yesterday stated that Frank
DOOLEN had landed safe in Hoboken, Apr. 1st. Kinmundy people are indeed
glad to learn of his safe return, and look forward to greeting him."
April 24, 1919 - Frank DOOLEN arrived home
from Camp Custer Wednesday night whither he had been sent for demobilization
upon his arrival from overseas where he had been serving for the past eight
months. Frank had some actual fighting and has some interesting experiences to
relate. We need not say we are glad to welcome home this another one of our
heroes.
May 8, 1919 - "Last Sunday was a day of social
gathering at the home of Mr. and Mrs. F.M. ROBB when their children and
grandchildren, numbering 30, gathered at the home to honor the return of their
son, Eli ROBB, and grandson, Frank DOOLEN, from France. All members of
this family were present by Robt. GREEN and Roy JONES. A splendid dinner
and a pleasant day was enjoyed."
May
22, 1919 - "A Tribute to Ours Boys of the Blue, Silver and Gold Stars; the
Alumni meeting of 1919 would fail in one of its most vital points of interest,
did we forget do honor to the boys from our roll of membership who have given
their services to their country in her hour of great need, and whose names with
henceforth be written in shining stars of blue, silver and gold, on the memory
of every loyal man and woman, boy and girl of Kinmundy of this Association and
of this great nation of which we are a part ..... (Class of 1916) B. Frank
DOOLEN went to Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Mich., April 24, 1918, thence to Camp
Mills, N.Y. Landed in France July 31. Was in active service on the
Metz front from Nov. 2 to Nov. 11; was with the 329th Field Artillery, 85th
Division. Returned home April 2; was honorably discharged April 24, 1919;
in service just one year."
Jan. 4, 1923 - (From his obituary) .... "It
was while working in Detroit, Frank was called into the U.S. service, the 25th
day of April 1918, discharged Apr. 23, 1919. He was with the 329 Field
Artillery, Battery B, 85th Division. During the time in the states he was
in training at Camp Custer. But request, this is to be mentioned: This was
called the '11th Hour' Regiment. It was in training just two days short of
eleven months, in the states, entrained for Camp Mills, July 16, 1918 at 11
a.m.. On July 30th at 11 am they left Camp Mills for Hoboken. At 11
o'clock next morning nothing in the entire war was more dramatically significant
of 'America's Answer' to the Autocratic Powers of Central Europe, than the
spectacle of that convoy of fourteen ships as it sailed down the harbor of New
York, out into the sea. Taking the last long look at the good old Statue
of Liberty and they think, 'When will we see it again?' To the onlooker,
this must have been a strange scene. That silent procession of transports
with their grotesque coloring in camouflage, bent on the most serious business
over undertaken on the seas by such ships, moving calmly out into the waters of
the Atlantic. In his records kept, this is found: 'Scarcely had the
afternoon worn away, when a storm began to rise - the ship to roll. The
first night was a sad and lonesome one for us. The next day was fully calm
- the boys sang Lullabies of old Kentucky and popular Soldier Songs of the day.
We watched the sunset out on the deep. Beautiful thing, that sunset! The
reminder of the trip continued fine, which took 11 days to cross the Atlantic.
On the 11th of August at 11 a.m., we marched off the boat at Liverpool, landed
on the shores of France at 11 a.m. Aug. 14; stayed at Messal just 11 days; left
the next Camp at 11 a.m., and arrived at the front the 11 hour of the fray on
the crest of the wav that crushed the Hun. We were there at the finish
which came on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, which was welcome
news.' Frank was with the Machine Gun nine days on the firing line.
Dauntless and daring he forged ahead; Scorning the danger
of gas and shell; Manning the pieces it gave the foe, a rolling barrage for a
German Hell; The Victory's form rose out of the din, And the battle
scarred banner of Justice long furled; Unfolded its beauty yet damped with
blood, To the Peace-loving eyes of a war worn world; A flag of a Nation, who has
not lost a battle; Thrust upon it nor a battle into which it was thrust, In
defense of honor, right, and justice.
On the return trip he was six days, leaving the harbor at
Brest, March 26th and arrived at Hoboken, Apr. 2nd; arriving at Camp Custer
April 18th, when on April 23rd the heaviest load ever lifted from men on earth
when they were discharged to go home. A wonderful and broadening
experience; twas not his lot to fall on battlefield, charging the foe where
glory's pennon faulted, coming home to make a brave fight for three long years,
loyal to the end, a solider to the core.
Fades the light; And afar Goeth day Cometh night; And a
star Leadeth all, Speedeth all, To their rest. We lay a flower upon your
grave, You fought the best."
Gerald Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 17, 1960 - "Inducted in Army: Mr. Gerald DOOLEN left
Centralia Monday, Nov. 7, for duties with the armed forces."
Nov. 24, 1960 - “Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Doolen have
received word that their son, Gerald, is now stationed at Fort Hood, Texas.”
Jan. 5, 1961 - "Recruit Gerald DOOLEN left Tuesday to return to
his duties at Fort Hood, Texas after spending a 14-day leave with his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert DOOLEN and Linda."
Jan. 11, 1962 - "Pvt. Gerald DOOLEN left today (Wednesday) to
return to Romulus, N.Y. after spending a 3 weeks leave with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Gilbert DOOLEN and Linda."
Oct. 25, 1962 - "Sp/3 Gerald DOOLEN left Monday morning to return
to his duty at the Ordnance Depot in Romulus, N.Y., after a months' furlough
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert DOOLEN and Linda and other relatives.
He will receive his discharge from the army, Nov. 6th."
Nov. 15, 1962 - "Receives Discharge: Mr. Gerald DOOLEN returned
Wednesday night after receiving his discharge from the U.S. Army on Nov. 6th."
Glenn Doolen
"The Marion County Express"; Kinmundy, Ill.;
Feb. 5, 1918 - "Mrs. B.F. LOWE, of this city, has received
a message telling of the safe arrival "somewhere in France" of her nephew Glenn
DOOLEN, who enlisted in the Medical Corps while a student at the state
university. Mr. DOOLEN is well known here, being the son of Mr. and Mrs.
Isam DOOLEN, formerly of Centralia, but now residing at Bondville. His
friends will be please to know that he has arrived safely."
July
10, 1919 - "Word has been received by relatives here that Glenn DOOLEN had
landed safely from overseas. He is the son of Isam DOOLEN and wife of
Bondville, and has many relatives and friends here."
John G. Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 3, 1962 - "Graduates from Naval Officer School: Ens. John G.
DOOLEN, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert L. DOOLEN of this city, was graduated,
Apr. 13, from Naval Officer Candidate School at the Naval Base, Newport,
R.I. The officer candidates, college graduates and outstanding personnel
from the fleet, receive instruction in naval sciences during the 16 week
intensive training period comprising the officer candidate course. Upon
graduation, they are qualified to meet not only the technical problems facing a
junior officer, in today's Navy, but also the special leadership problems posed
by our fleet's world-wide commitments. Following graduation, the new
officers report to a wide variety of assignments in addition to shipboard duty.
Some go to special programs as underwater demolition, salvage, naval
intelligence, and explosive ordnance disposal, while others report to
engineering and staff corps duties. Vice Admiral George F. Beardsley, USN,
Chief of Naval Material, presented diplomas to the new officers and was guest
speaker during the graduation ceremonies.""
June 28, 1962 - “Ens. John G. DOOLEN, USN, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Gilbert L. DOOLEN of Kinmundy, was graduated June 8, at the Naval
Schools Command, Newport, R.I. The training includes the use of the latest
instructional techniques, field trips, practice with actual equipment and a
rigorous demand for attitudes or unerring accuracy and attention to detail.”
Ronald Doolen
“The
Kinmundy Express”
June 18, 1959 – “PFC Ronald DOOLEN of Ft. Gordon, Ga. called
several times last week on his grandmother, Mrs. Lora BAYLIS. After completion
of his furlough, he will go to Ft. Dix, N.J. from where he will be sent to
France
for duty.”
%20Roy%20Doolen.jpg)
(V-393)
Roy Doolen
with Lela Mae (Nichols) Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 15, 1942 - "Boys Leave for Camp: Carl and Roy DOOLEN,
Bill GARRETT, Marvin BASSETT, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Willard WILEY, and Merle
SCHNEIDER, left Tuesday night for camp. D.A. ARNOLD, who was released a
few weeks ago on account of being over 28, was recalled and left Sunday night.
Arthur BOYD, Charles KLINE, Paul WRIGHT and Louie Soutier are in St. Louis today
where they are receiving their final physical examinations."
March 5, 1942 - "(East Zion) Miss Lela Mae NICHOLS
accompanied by a friend motored to Fort Riley, Kansas Thursday night and spent
until Monday with Mr. Roy DOOLEN and other friends who are stationed in the
cavalry there."
May 28, 1942 - "East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Dresdon
HEADLEY and Miss Lela Mae NICHOLS left last Friday night for a visit to Fort
Riley, Kansas visiting Roy DOOLEN, who is stationed there."
June 11, 1942 - "NICHOLS-DOOLEN: Mr. and Mrs. Hank NICHOLS of
Kinmundy, announce the marriage of their daughter, Miss Lela Mae NICHOLS, to
Pvt. Roy DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cleve DOOLEN. The couple were married May 28th in
Junction City, Kansas, by Rev. R. Campbell. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Dresdon HEADLEY of
Kinmundy. Mr. and Mrs. Roy DOOLEN returned here for a short visit."
Jan. 28, 1943 - "M. Sgt. Roy DOOLEN left Saturday
for Washington after a furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleve
DOOLEN."
Apr. 29, 1943 - "East Zion: Mrs. Roy DOOLEN, who
has been in Texas with her husband the past 5 months, returned home Saturday.
Her husband was moved to another camp in Texas."
June 4, 1943 - "East
Zion: Lieut. Roy DOOLEN, who has been spending a 2 week furlough with his wife
and parents, returned to camp Sunday."
Aug. 12, 1943 - "East Zion from last week - Mrs. Roy
DOOLEN left Friday for Texas to be near her husband who is in camp there."
Sept. 2, 1943 - "Roy DOOLEN Promoted: Mr. and Mrs. G.C.
DOOLEN have received word that their son, Roy, was promoted from a Second
Lieutenant to a First Lieutenant on Aug. 18th. We know Lt. DOOLEN is very
happy over this and we extend congratulations. Lt. DOOLEN is stationed in
Texas."
Feb. 17, 1944 - "Here’s a letter from Lt. Roy DOOLEN, who is
now seeing the sights through the fog of merry old England. He says: Years ago I
would never have dreamed that The Kinmundy Express would have world wide
distribution. But it has just that. Mine is getting over here at varied
intervals. I never know which week’s paper to expect next. However, I enjoy them
immensely and wish to express my appreciation for it. Even though the news is a
month and a half old, it doesn’t seem that way to me. I can keep up with the
hometown’s progress week by week. For the past couple of months I have been
roaming around the little island called England. The whole country has basically
the same typography, which is small rolling hills covered with grass or small
grain. There are few trees in most parts. The fields are in 5 to 10 acre plots
with a hedge fence. It is very pretty when the sun is shining. From above it
looks like a pretty patchwork quilt. The people are as friendly as one could
expect, when there are so many soldiers around. When you read about blackouts
and fogs, they are not exaggerating a bit. I certainly never saw anything so
dark as it can get here. Last week was notable for 2 things: I got my laundry
back, which is a rarity over here; and the sun shone 1 day, an even greater
rarity. At present I am going to school, a never ending process in the army. In
another week I will be through and go back to living in the field again. I have
no idea where my outfit is at present but will be able to contact them through
our base camp. Then I will take my map in hand, catch up with the outfit and go
back to my duties as Motor and Executive Officer of my troop. Well this is
enough for the present. Keep the paper coming and thanks a lot."
Oct. 12, 1944 -
"1st Lieutenant Roy G. DOOLEN writes: Never before in my life have I put so much
work into such a short period of time, as I have in the last couple of months.
My outfit has led this race, for Germany such as no outfit but the Calvary can
do. It has cost many lives, and as I look at the pretty green pine forests
concealing the famed ‘Siegfreid Line", I realize it will cost many more lives to
go on through to Berlin. But the American Army has pushed forward with such
spirit that German troops turn and flee at the sign of them. On their own soil
however, the German are a little tougher. My outfit got quite a writeup over
here for being the first Americans in Paris. The city is very beautiful and gay
in spite of the war. I could write many pages on the interesting things that
have happed to me so far, but the same things are happening to thousands of
other soldiers. The complete story will come out when we all get home and spin
our yards in the old barber shop or on the street corner. I hope that won’t be
too long. Your paper hasn’t caught up with me for quite a while. I sure miss it.
It keeps me up to date on the home front. Here’s hoping it catches up with me
soon. Best of luck to all at home."
June 7, 1945 – “Mr. and Mrs. G.C. DOOLEN have received word from their son, Roy,
stating that he was promoted to the rank of Captain in the Calvary, on 16 May. He is with the Third Army in
Germany.”
Aug. 30, 1945 – “The Bronze Star Medal is awarded to Capt. Roy G. DOOLEN,
Cavalry, 102nd Cav. group mecz, United States Army for meritorious achievement
in connection with military operations from 13 June 1944 to 8 May 1945 in France, Belgium, Luxembourg,
and Germany. As assistant S-2 and Liaison Officer, Capt. DOOLEN (then 1st
Lieut.) Showed great devotion to duty, diligence and thorough application in all
assignments. His voluntary undertaking and efficient performance of duties far
in excess of those required of him assisted materially in the combat operations
of his unit. Capt. DOOLEN’s achievement deserve unqualified praise.” Capt.
DOOLEN entered military service from Illinois, Jan. 13, 1942, has been overseas
since Nov. 4, 1943. His wife, Lela M. DOOLEN who resides near Alma, just
received the word that this award was made Aug. 13, 1945 at Dobrany, Czechoslovakia.”
Nov. 1, 1945 – “Capt. Roy DOOLEN arrived home last Saturday to again be with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleve DOOLEN and his wife, the former Lela Mae NICHOLS.
He is home on Terminal leave and after the expiration of this leave, will
receive his discharge. Roy entered the service in January 1942. After taking
his basic training and attending Officers’ Candidate School at Ft. Riley, Kansas, was commissioned 2nd
Lieut in October 1942. He was later promoted to 1st Lieut. In October 1942.
He was later promoted to 1st Lieutenant at Camp Maxey, Texas, in Sept. 1943. He
shipped overseas in November 1943, landing in England, where he was stationed
until the invasion of France. He went into Normandy on D-Day plus 6. From
there he went to Northern France, then to Belgium, Germany and then into
Czechoslovakia. Here in May 1945, he was promoted to Captain. Here also in
May, he was awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service. He sailed for the
states on Oct. 14th, from LaHarve, France, landing in Boston on
Oct. 21st. Capt. DOOLEN wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater
of Operations Ribbon with 6 stars, representing the campaigns of Normandy,
Northern France, Belgium, Rhineland, Ardennes, and Central Europe. Capt. DOOLEN
was attached to the 102nd Cavalry Division. He says his plans are indefinite
for the present. Anyway, we are all glad to welcome Capt. DOOLEN home again.”
Steve Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 22, 1966 - A/3c Steve DOOLEN, Lackland, AFB,
Texas, came to Kinmundy to visit his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN
Monday. He also visited his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. D.C.
PURCELL, Alma."
Jan. 12, 1967 - "S/Sgt. Steve DOOLEN is here visiting
his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. D.C. PURCELL, Alma, and Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN.
He will return January 16 to Norman, Okla., where he will attend the State
University."
Aug. 6, 1970 - Sgt. Steve DOOLEN, Bloomington, Ind.,
spent Thursday night with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN.
Steve had just returned from duty in Vietnam."
Walter J. Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 14, 1942 - "Walter DOOLEN of Macomb, spent
Sunday here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.W. DOOLEN. He is leaving this
week for the army."
July 22, 1943 - "Commissioned and Married: Word has
been received here of the marriage of Walter J. DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.W.
DOOLEN of this city to Miss Jo DAVIS, of Macomb, Ill. Walter has just been
graduated from officers training school as a second Lieutenant. He has been
transferred from Virginia to Utah."
April 4, 1946 –“Capt. Walter DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.W. DOOLEN, received
his discharge at Jefferson Barracks March 28th. He was met there by his wife
and they came to Kinmundy Saturday evening to spend a few days with homefolks.
Walter entered the service May 7, 1942, and received his basic at Ft. Warren, Wyo. From there he was sent to
O.C.S. at Camp Lee, Va., and received his commission July 2, 1943. He shipped
overseas Oct. 2, 1943, landing in Scotland. From there
he went to England, then to Italy, France and Germany. He was advanced to the
rank of 1st Lieutenant in Feb. 1944 while in England, and to the rank of Captain
in Oct. 1945 while in France. He was attached to the Army Air Force
Re-enforcement Depot. He started home on March 12, landing in New York March
23rd. Mr. and Mrs. DOOLEN will return to their home in Macomb, Ill. within a
few days, where Mr. DOOLEN will resume his duties as managers of the Woolworth
Store in that city.”
Wesley Doolen
“The Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 16, 1953 – “Wesley DOOLEN and
Carl LANE
left Monday for St. Louis to report for the Army. They were accompanied by Don
FRALA of Alma who reported to the Air Force. Wesley and Carl will be stationed
at Fort Custer, Mich., and Don will be at Lackland Air Base,
Texas.”
Apr. 16, 1953 - "HARRELL-DOOLEN: Miss Betty Ann HARRELL, daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Harry HARRELL of Odin, and Wesley DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Earl DOOLEN of this city, were united in marriage Friday evening, April 10 in
Mt. Vernon at the home of Rev. W.T. GIBBONS, who performed the single ring
ceremony. The couple was attended by Patricia DOOLEN, sister of the groom, and
Wm. Donald FRALA of Alma, friend of the groom. Mr. DOOLEN attended school at
Kinmundy H.S. He left Monday to be inducted into the Army Air Corps. Mrs.
DOOLEN is a student in the Odin H.S., and remain in Odin for the present."
Dec. 24, 1953 – “Pvt. Wesley DOOLEN,
Ft. Benning,
Ga., and Ronald DOOLEN, Paducah, Ky., came Sunday to visit the former’s wife,
Betty, and daughter of Odin, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. A.J. BAYLIS.”
July 15, 1954 – “Pfc. Wesley DOOLEN left July 7 to
return to his base in Germany.”
Jan. 6, 1955 – “Pfc Wesley DOOLEN, who has been
hospitalized in Lumstrum, Germany, since Aug. arrived in Odin Christmas Day for
a furlough with his wife and daughter. They visited relatives at the home of
Mrs. A.J. BAYLIS, Sunday.”
Apr. 28, 1955 – “Wesley DOOLEN, formerly of Kinmundy,
received a medical discharge from the Air Force, March 31. He is now at home in
Odin.”
Lester Dorr
Lester Dorr -
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – March 13, 1919 - “The Alma News” section
A telegram from the War Department was received last Saturday by Mrs. Eunice
AUSTIN, telling of the death of her son, Lester DORR, who died from bronchial
pneumonia, while with the A.E. F. in France. It is an irony of fate that he
should have passed thru several battles without a scratch and then died of
disease on February 12. He had been expected home sometime and this
announcement of his death came as a blow to his mother, who has the sympathy of
the entire community in her hour of trial."
(V-414)
Carl Richard Doudera
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 3, 1960 - "Carl Richard DOUDERA Enlists in Army: SFC Leslie
E. Sullens, Jr., the local U.S. Army Recruiter, announced that Carl Richard
DOUDERA of Alma, Ill., recently volunteered for enlistment in the U.S. Army.
Carl is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank L. DOUDERA, R. 1, Alma, Ill. Carl
chose Radar and Field Radio Repair as his Army Career before enlisting, this
field is one of the many career groups open for enlistment volunteers in the
U.S. Army. After basic training, Carl will report to his next duty station
for schooling or on the job training in his field."
April 6, 1961 - "PFC Carl R. DOUDERA, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank
DOUDERA, Alma, Ill, completed the 25-week field microwave radio repair course
March 23 at the Army Signal School, Fort Monmouth, N.J. He entered the
Army in Feb. 1960 and completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
The 22 year old soldier is a 1966 graduate of Kinmundy High School. "
June 15, 1961 - “Army PFC Carl R. DOUDERA, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Frank L. Doudera, Alma, recently was assigned to the U.S. Army Signal
Missile Support Agency at White Sands Missile Range, N.M. A radio repairman in
the agency’s Communications Division, he entered the Army in Feb. 1960,
completed basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., and was last stationed at
Fort Monmouth, N.J. The 22 year old soldier is a 1956 graduate of
Kinmundy
High School and was employed by the Sherman Drilling Co. in Dubois.”
(V-412) John Doudera and
Joseph Doudera (WWI)
(V-472) Kenneth Doudera
(1953)
(V-413) Louie F. Doudera
"The Kinmundy Express"
Feb. 4, 1943 - "PFC Louie DOUDERA has returned to his camp in
Texas after a 15 day furlough with home folks."
Apr. 29, 1943 - "The services and program for our boys
in the service was well attended at Green Ridge Sunday. PFC Louie DOUDERA
received the present for having the most relatives present and Pvt. Murl HEADLEY
was second."
Oct. 21, 1943 - "Pfc Louie DOUDERA of Texas is home on
a 15 day furlough."
Oct. 28, 1943 - "(Green Ridge): Laura, Jo and Kathryn
DOUDERA came home Thursday to spend the weekend with their parents and Pfc Louie
DOUDERA."
June 8, 1944 - "PFC Louie DOUDERA returned to his camp
in Texas last Tuesday after spending a 14 day furlough with his parents, F.L.
DOUDERA."
Nov. 23, 1944 - "(Green Ridge from last week) PFC
Louis DOUDERA left last Sunday night after a 15 day furlough with her parents,
Mr. and Mrs. F.L. DOUDERA."
Raymond Doudera
"The Kinmundy Express":
June 1, 1944 - "Accepted for Army and Navy: The following men
have been accepted for service in the armed forces, Dale BRASEL, Salem; Wm.
BROOM, Raymond DOUDERA and Harold JONES, Alma; Frederick MISELBROOK, Ray
BOUGHERS, Jason GOODWIN, Francis KRUTSINGER, and Walter BRIMBERRY, of Kinmundy."
Nov. 23, 1944 - (Green Ridge from last week) "Pvt. Raymond DOUDERA has returned
to camp at Ft. Riley, Kansas, after a 10 day furlough with home folks."
Gretchen L. Douglas
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 19, 1991 - "Airman Gretchen L. DOUGLAS has graduated
from Air Force basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. During the 6
weeks of training, the airman studied Air Force mission, organization and
customs and received special training in human relations. In addition,
airmen who complete training earn credits toward an associate degree through the
Community College of the Air Force. She is the
daughter of Bryan W. and Susan L. DOUGLAS of 203 N. Lincoln, Kinmundy.
The airman is a 1991 graduate of Salem Community High School."
June 18, 1992 - "Airman Gretchen L. DOUGLAS has graduated from the
wideband communication equipment specialist course at Keesler Air Force Base,
Mississippi. Training included the operation, installation, inspection,
testing, adjustment, and maintenance of micro-wave, voice and teletype
communications equipment. DOUGLAS is the daughter of Bryan W. and Susan L.
DOUGLAS of 203 West Lincoln, Kinmundy."
Howard Downey and _____________ from
Alma
Clifford M. Downs
"The
Marion County Express";
Kinmundy, Illinois;
Sept. 5, 1918 - "More Selected Men: 12 more men
have been added to Kinmundy's contribution to democracy's forces. The following
12 men left Salem Thursday afternoon for Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Mich.: Hugh
COUGHLIN, Morgan H. PHILLIPS, William H. GIGAR, Charles KAGY, Otto V. REESE,
John Arthur HOWELL, Clifford M. DOWNS, Clifford G. JACKSON, Fred COURSON, Henry
E. METZGER, Gordon KRUTSINGER, and Otis E. SMITH. It is a significant
coincidence that one of these boys, Clifford DOWNS, has a brother who has
already fallen a prey to the Hun and without a doubt he goes with a very
definite purpose and a fair realization of what he is going into. We
believe these boys are going with a clear realization of the noble and righteous
cause in which they are taking up arms and with a high resolve to give their all
if need be. We trust they may also have as full a realization of our
support to our uttermost resources; even to the point of great sacrifices."
Sept. 12, 1918 - "Signally Honored: On last
Thursday evening, 75 Marion county men departed for Camp Custer, Mich.
This in itself would have been no unusual occurrence had it not been for the fact
the one of this number was a young man who was going to avenge the death of his
brother, the first Marion County and Kinmundy boy to make the supreme sacrifice.
So significant did this fact seem to the Local Board at Salem, that they placed
Clifford DOWNS, son of Mrs. Mattie DOWNS, in charge of the contingent from this
country. Needless to say these men whom he has the honor of leading on the
first lap of their journey to Berlin will have a clear realization of the task
before them, and that Clifford will amply replace his brother, who lies buried
some where in France, goes without saying."
Joseph Downs
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – July 25, 1918;
Mrs. Mattie DOWNS,
Kinmundy, Ill.
Dear Mother,
Long
before this, you have received the sad news of the death of your brave and loyal
son, Joseph, who died at the hospital from gas received the morning of May 27th.
Mother, you are to be proud as your son died as all good soldiers should – with
his face to the enemy even after being seriously gassed did he falter. We
buried him in the little cemetery on the hill beside his comrades where he
sleeps tonight as the little stream below flows on toward the sea.
If
there is anything I can do, you only have to write me. All his personal things
will be sent you by the government war officials.
Assuring you of our deepest sympathy in your loss. I am, sincerely yours,
Winfred E. ROBB; Chaplain 168th Inf.
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Nov. 7, 1918
“In Memorian: For
every star in it's field of blue; For every stripe of stainless blue; Thousands
of the tried and true; Have given their lives for you and me.
Joseph DOWNS, Joe, as he was familiarly known, was a volunteer. He
was a soldier when he gave that life for the cause of all humanity, where his
comrades mournfully tenderly bore his body, wrapped in his blanket to the grave,
Joe had fullfilled his mission. This boy was born in our city March 28,
1890, son of Melvin and Mattie DOWNS, falling "Somewhere Over There" May 27,
1918, Leaving a widowed mother, 5 brothers, 3 sisters. The sisters are
Gladys, Mattie Bell, and Thelma. The brothers are Ruby, Harry, John,
Clifford and Tracey; John being in the service. Joe enlisted in the
service 1917 while living in Patterson, Iowa, and loyally supported his Co.
until he met his death. He lived here until he was grown, was taken into
the M.E. Church while Rev. J.B. CUMMONS was pastor. He also attended the
Christian Church in this city. He was one of our boys. He was one
boy of the great army of anxious sleepless war mothers. Thousands of
them are to be found on this land of ours and thousands and thousands in the
homes across the sea. Where are the boys? "Somewhere in France."
The sound of taps marked the end of this soldier's day. In the cemetery
somewhere "over there" a little wooden cross bears the name Joseph Downs that is
familiar and dear to us. We know he was associated here with his loved
ones, with his school mates. His supreme sacrifice and bravery has touched
a very tender cord in all our hearts a great danger threatened our country and
this danger is being averted by the offering of such lives and Joe was our first
offering. The dearest treasures, the manhood of America are the
sacrifices. Joe belonged to that glorious Rainbow Division which President
Wilson saw fit to christen with that beautiful name, that was ages ago set in
Heaven as a promise. Time has revealed how fitting the name. This
boy as thousands of others gave his fresh heart and courage to the brave allied
soldiers trembling on the verge of a terrible defeat and across the darkened
outlook of many a French mother. The rainbow has proven a bow of promise.
Joe heard the Country calling and was with the first to go. His memory
with the boys will always linger with us and so we are beginning to realize this
greatness of the wonderful offering and we must come to the fuller appreciation
of the debt of gratitude which we owe to our soldiers and not to the soldiers
alone but a debt we owe to those whose bleeding hearts are giving up their loved
ones in this mighty struggle for justice and liberty. Our duty lies
clearly before us. Joe's life was given that you and I might enjoy the blessings
and liberty of our nation. Our grief over the loss of these boys can not
be expressed in words. In the years to come, Joe DOWNS name with all the
rest shall be sacred. We feel that honor is due to the ones who have given
the boys in this great cause. They love the boys enough to give them up.
Yet it follows after this love of mine; Like a convoy across the sea; To keep
you safe on the battle line; Like that trusty rifle in your hand; To go with you
through "No Man's Land". And should you join the unknown land; My love
would stand in that last hour; My self incarnate to give you power; For love
never faileth lad you know; And I love you enough to let you go."
The purposes of the almighty are perfect and must prevail. With tears, we
the people with tears resign these boys to God and History. There is rest
for the Boys in Heaven."
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Feb. 6, 1919
“Praises Work of
Kinmundy Woman” - Jan. 25, 1919
People of
Kinmundy, Illinois:
I
returned to the U.S.A. on the U.S. Huron, an old German boat, Frederick the
Great, the one that the Kaiser made the trip around the world on in 1907. On
our trip home, we had the sad experience of getting into a storm with a 120 mile
gale lasting for 24 hours and the constant rolling of the ship was very tiresome
and made many sick. During the night when the store was at its worst the ship
rolled 51 degrees. Of course not being real seamen, you may have some idea what
we all thought.
We landed at Newport News, Va. Jan. 18, and the Red Cross and the Hospital
certainly made us feel at home and at the hospital here, the Red Cross have
wonderful community houses for the returned soldiers and while visiting there I
had the pleasure of meeting Miss RUTHERFORD of your town and she certainly is a
grand lady to be among the boys for she’s a regular mother to us all. When she
learned I was from the Rainbow Division we had many things to talk about and the
first thing she asked me was, “Do you know Joseph DOWNS?” and she was very
surprised when I knew him so well. Up until the time that Joe was killed, most
of my meals in France
were cooked by him and I might say that my Xmas and New Years dinners a year ago
were cooked by Joe and if we had been at home it couldn’t have been better. Joe
certainly was well liked by the boys of his company and had a great many friends
through the Regiment for he was always up and doing.
The 42nd (Rainbow Division) was in the trenches for four months straight on the
Lorraine front and during our stay there we had several scraps with Fritz and at
midnight on May 27, the Germans sent over several hundred large gas shells in
the area where our advanced dressing station and kitchens were located and you
would not wonder why men die from this gas if you could see how it turned the
grass and trees yellow at this place. From this dressing station we sent two
hundred and seventy-five to the hospital who were gassed; several died on the
road and many others after they arrived and Joe DOWNS was among them. A boy who
sacrificed all he had, his life. One of his friends was killed and his captain
badly gassed at the same time. Words cannot describe a gas attack or any other
kind of battle so I won't attempt it.
We have a Victrola in our Ward that was bought by the people of Kinmundy and we
sure enjoy it. Nothing like that at the front, our only music there was the
whizzing and busting of shells. We had two regiment of Artillery 75 M in our
Division - one from Minnesota and one from Illinois and when the Doughboys had
them behind them in a drive they were satisfied and if they can't make the Huns
retreat, no one can.
Sgt. Carl W. ASCHEN; 168th Inf., 42nd Div.; Winterset,
Iowa
"The Kinmundy Express" - Aug. 4, 1921 - "Taps"; "Remains of Joseph DOWNS
Buried Here Sunday"
"As I stand here beside the coffin containing the body of our own heroic
dead, it seems I am standing our heroic dead, it seems I am standing on Holy
ground. Ground consecrated by the blood of our brave boys, and I hope the
time will soon come when we will really appreciate our own America and the brave
men and boys, who died to give us such a rich heritage. We are grateful
for the bodies of our boys that they shall await the Resurrection in the homeland
and sleep the years away beneath the dear old flag for which they died. I
have always taken pleasure in shaking hands with a Veteran of the Civil War and
I never have let a Khaki clad boy pass me without a grasp of the hand and a "God
bless you." Let us never withhold a kind worked, for we can never
repay them, for what they have done for us. For every star in its field of
blue, For every stripe of stainless hue, Thousands of the tried and true, Have
given their lives for me and you. Joseph DOWNS, "Joe", as he was
familiarly known, was a volunteer. He was a soldier when he gave his life
for the cause of humanity, and when his comrades tenderly bore his body, wrapped
in his blanket and covered with the flag, for which he died to the grave, Joe
had fulfilled his mission as a hero. This boy was born in our City March
22, 1889, was a son of Melvin and Mattie DOWNS, was Gassed in France, May 27th
and died in a Hospital at Baccarat the same day, leaving a widowed mother, 5
brothers and 3 sisters. The sisters are Gladys, Mattie Bell, and Thelma.
The brothers are Ruby, Harry, John, Clifford, and Tracy. John is Sgt.
Major of the Regulars stationed at the Panama Canal. Tracy is in the Navy
in London, England at the present time. Joe enlisted in the service in
1917, while living in Patterson, Iowa, and loyally supported his Co. until he
met his death at the age of 29 years, 2 months and 5 days. He lived here
until he was grown, was taken into the M.E. Church while Rev. J.B. Cummins was
pastor, attended our schools, was at one time a pupil of the writer, who found
him a good natured and cheery student. In a cemetery in France, the sound
of "Taps" marked the end of this soldier's day and a little wooden cross bore
the name of "Joseph DOWNS". He was one of our town boys, he was associated
here with his loved ones and schoolmates. His supreme sacrifice and
bravery has touched a very tender chord in all our hearts. Joe was our
first offering, the dearest treasures, the young manhood of America are the
sacrifices. Joe belonged to that glorious Rainbow Division, which
President Wilson saw fit to christen, with that beautiful name, that was ages
ago set in Heaven as a promise. Time has proven how fitting the name. This
boy, as thousands of others, gave his fresh heart and courage to the brave,
allied soldiers, trembling on the verge of a terrible defeat. The
"Rainbow" has proven a bow of promise. Joe heard the country calling and
was among the first to go. His memory with the other boys will always
linger with us, and we are now beginning to realize the greatness of the
offering made by these boys, and we must come to a fuller appreciation of the
debt of gratitude, which we owe to our soldiers and to those whose bleeding
hearts gave up their loved ones, this mighty struggle for justice and liberty.
A little incident of premonition will be in place here, "On the day that Joe
DOWNS and Russell SALSBURY, a chum, were leaving for training camp, they erected
a flag pole, in front of the SALSBURY home planting it in cement, before the
cement hardened each inscribed his name and underneath wrote "Killed in action
in France." They were both killed the same day. Some who stayed at
home, try to say the boys went out for a picnic, but by this, we known, they are
realized, what might overtake them. They bravely volunteered and bravely
died, for us. In looking over a memorial book, "The Price of our
Heritage", one young boy when dying said, "O for one more day, back in the old
hometown, with the folks, before I go", another said, "Tell mother I died as a
soldier". this comment for one, "Private T---, was a college man and an
earnest Christian", another in his delirium, continually called for mother."
These are but a few of the heart longings that were in the thoughts of our dear
boys, God forbid, that we should ever complain, at the taxes, raised, to help
care for, the wounded ones, or the dependents of the deceased. "Shall we
forget those World-War days; That made us comrades all? Shall we forget
how swift the feet; That ran at duty's call? Shall we forget the honored
dead; That sleep beneath the sod? Who gave their lives for Liberty; Their
country and their God? No; here we pledge Fraternity; With every human
life; That sang the song of victory won; Or fell beneath the strife."
IN MEMORY OF: Cook Joseph DOWNS, Co. A. 168th Inf.; who died May 24th,
1918. He bravely laid down his life for the cause of his country. His name
will ever remain fresh in the hearts of his friends and comrades. The
record of his honorable service will be preserved in the archives of the
American Expeditionary Forces. John J. Pershing; Commander in Chief.
IN MEMORY OF Joseph DOWNS, Cook, Co. A, 168th info., who served with
honor in the World War and died in the service in the country. Woodrow
Wilson.
Memorial from France: To the memory of Joseph DOWNS, Cook, Co. A., 168th
Inf. of the United States of America. Who died for liberty during the
Great War. The Homage of France. R. Poincare, President of the
Republic.
IN THE SHADE OF THE TREES, where he had played when a child and under
the large Chautauqua tent, the funeral services of Joseph DOWNS was held Sunday
afternoon at 5 o'clock. One of the largest crowds that has been here for
some time came to pay their last tribute of respect to one who had given up his
all that we might enjoy that liberty and life intended by our Creator. The
funeral services were conducted under the auspices of the American Legion.
The memorial services were led by Rev. T.A. MARTIN and A.T. WILLIAMS.
Short talks were made by Chas. F. PRUETT and F.W. VORHIES. Mr. VOHIES is a
member of the newly organized 168th Infantry, Rainbow Div. of Iowa.
Singing the male quartette, solo by Mrs. F.O. GRISSOM, Obituary given by Mrs.
A.E.W. PRUETT. The Kinmundy Band played the National Anthem. After
the talks were made, the casket was placed on the wagon, that had been arranged
in army style, and was drawn by four white horses to the Evergreen Cemetery,
where as the sun sank from sight, "Taps" were sounded and the remains of one of
our heroes was lowered in the grave. All who read of the work of the
Rainbow Division agree that they won all honors that have been bestowed on them,
to those who fell the honor of being wrapped in the American flag, when taken to
their last resting place, is unequalled by words of praise, when it comes time
for one's departure from the walks of life nothing could be grander than being
clothed with the flag they had offered and given their life to protect.
To OUR FRIENDS: You don't know how much we appreciate you in assisting
in every way possible at the burial of our dear son and brother, Joe, who gave
his life for his country as a brave soldier, on the battle fields of France.
We especially mention the words of consolation, the music, the beautiful flowers
and untiring efforts of the Legion boys to lay to rest tenderly their comrade in
arms. Words fail to express our appreciation of your every set of
kindness. May God bless you. Mrs. Mattie DOWNS and family."
Norman Lee Downs
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 6, 1941 - Norman Lee DOWNS, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Tracy DOWNS of Chicago, entered training at the Great Lakes Naval
Training Station. Tracy was also in the Navy during the latter part of the
First World's War. Norman is the grandson of Mrs. Mattie DOWNS."
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Norman Lee
DOWNS"
Tracey Downs
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 7, 1943 - "In the Service: Tracey DOWNS"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Tracey
DOWNS"
(V-150) Dustin Duncan
Ellis Dunn
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
July 4, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men - In
Training Camps - Ellis DUNN
Jan. 16, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Ellis DUNN
Michael L. Durham
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 10, 1964 –“Completes Training: Michael L. DURHAM, 19, son of Mr. and
Mrs. George O. Durham of Alma, recently completed basic training at the
Naval
Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill. the 9 week training includes naval
orientation, history, and organization, seamanship ordnance and gunnery,
military drill, first aid and survival. During the training recruits
receive tests and interviews which determine their future assignments in the
Navy. Upon completing the program they are assigned to service schools for
technical training or to ships and stations for on-the-job training in a Navy
rating specialty. Navy training produces the power in seapower by
supplying personnel to man the ships, planes, and shore stations of today's
Navy.”
Nov. 12, 1964 - "Michael L. DURHAM, airman apprentice, USN, son
of Mr. and Mrs. George O. DURHAM, Jr., of Rt. 1, Alma, Ill., graduated Oct 2nd
from Aviation Familiarization School at the Naval Air Technical Training Center,
Memphis, Tenn. During the 2 week course, he studied Naval aviation
orientation and survival practices. The curriculum included the history of
naval aviation, theory of flight, aircraft carriers and operations, cleaning and
inspecting aircraft, survival evasion tactics, parachutes and jump techniques."
Jan. 7, 1965 –“Airman Apprentice Michael L. DURHAM, USN,
son of Mr. and Mrs. George O. Durham of Alma, graduated Dec. 17 from the
Aviation
Machinist
Mate Reciprocating School at the Naval Air Technical Training Center, Memphis,
Tenn. During the 9 week course, he studied reciprocating power plants and
line operations. The curriculum included familiarization of intermediate,
major and special inspections and power plant accessories.”
Lawrence R. "Bud" Dyer
“The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 6, 1952 - "Pvt. Bud DYER of Fort Leonard Wood,
Mo., spent the weekend with his mother, Mrs. Lee DYER."
Feb. 5, 1953 - "Pvt. Bud DYER of Fort Leonard Wood,
Mo., Pvt. Gerald CHASTEEN, Pvt. Bill VALLOW, and Pvt. Charles WHITE of Fort
Knox, spent the weekend with their parents in Kinmundy."
Feb. 26, 1953 - "Pvt. Bud DYER left Sunday for Seattle,
Washington to report for overseas duty, after spending a ten day furlough with
his mother, Mrs. Lela DYER."
April 8, 1954 – “Lawrence R. “Bud” DYER, 22, son of Mr. and
Mrs. John N. DYER, was recently promoted to Sergeant while serving with the 306th
Engineer Dump Truck Co. in Korea. Sergeant DYER is a platoon leader in the company which
hauls bulk materials for construction projects of the 32nd Engineer
Group. Overseas since March 1953, he entered the army Sept. 1952, and completed
basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. In civilian life, DYER was employed by
the Valley Steel Inc., Centralia.”
Sept. 2, 1954 - "Returns from Korea: Lawrence "Bud" DYER returned home Friday morning from
Korea. Bud had served 22 months with the U.S. Army in Korea."
Floyd Eagan
(V-248b) - Floyd
Eagan
"The Kinmundy Express"
July 10, 1941 -
"Merle JACKSON, Christy GENTRY, Stephen and Floyd EAGAN, all of Camp Forrest,
Tenn. were permitted to spend the weekend at home with their parents. More
of the boys will be home this weekend."
Oct. 16, 1941 - "Kenneth JACKSON motored to Camp
Forrest, Tenn. Friday. Merle JACKSON, Harold JONES and Floyd and Steven
EAGAN, Eary GENTRY, Dwight WILLIAMS, and James HILL of Sigel accompanied him to
Kinmundy. Others home on furlough are Bob HANNA and James BASSETT."
Apr. 2, 1942 - "Privates First Class Stephen and
Floyd EAGAN of Camp Forrest, Tenn., came Saturday night to spend 7 day furlough
with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN."
Jan. 13, 1944 - "Here’s one from Pvt. Floyd EAGAN, who is now watching the hula
girls. He says: I want to write a few lines to let you know where I am, but I
can’t say anything about what I am doing. I am still in the Hawaiian Islands,
but on a different island now. They are beautiful, but they are not what you
folks back there think they are, and I wouldn’t take all that I have seen here
to be back in Kinmundy, but I wouldn’t take anything for what I have seen. I
just came back from mail call and I sure did good tonight. I got four letters
and that sure helps. The letters from the boys in the service is the first thing
I look for. I would like to thank all the neighbors and friends for the
beautiful greeting cards which I received for Christmas."
March 15, 1945 - "PFC Floyd F. EAGAN, Son of
Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, Killed on Luzon 19 February" - "Again, sad news
has reached our community from the war front. It was little expected and
struck like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky. On Tuesday morning, Mr. and
Mrs. Harrison EAGAN received a telegram from the War Department reading, "your
son, Private First Class Floyd F. EAGAN, was killed in action 19 February on
Luzon." Floyd, the son of Harrison R. and Lena EAGAN, was born Sept. 19,
1918 in Alma township where he attained his grade school education. The
family moved to their present home, just north of the C & E.I. lake in 1936 and
Floyd attended our local high school, graduating with the class of '40. He
was a member of Company I, Illinois National Guard, at Salem, and he and his
brother, Stephen, were mustered into the U.S. Army on March 5, 1941. After
training in various camps, this outfit shipped overseas in July 1943.
Stephen did not pass his overseas physical examination and was given a medical
discharge. These two brothers had been together until this time.
This outfit, the 33rd Division landed on the Hawaiian Islands, going from there
to New Guinea, thence to the East Indies and finally landed in the Philippines
about February 1st. We have all read of the bloody battles that have taken
place there. Floyd was a member of the 130th Infantry. Thus closes
the chapter of the life of this good lad who, like many others, gave his last
full measure of devotion for his country. He is another boy whom we would
like to remember as a very quiet, unassuming lad, who had a smile for everyone
he met. Besides his parents, he is survived by two brothers, Stephen of
this city, and Harold of Champaign, and two sisters, Mary Gordon and Thelma
Molenhour, both of Iuka. A memorial will be given in honor of this brave
lad in the near future."
March 22, 1945 - "Memorial Services Sunday for PFC Floyd
EAGAN" - "Memorial Services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, in the
Primitive Baptist church in Alma, Ill., for PFC. Floyd F. EAGAN, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, of this city, who was killed in action on Luzon,
February 19th Elder W.E. WRIGHT will deliver the message and taps will be
sounded by the American Legion."
March 29, 1945 - "Card of Thanks: We wish to thank
all our many friends and neighbors for your kind expressions of sympathy and
condolence in the loss of our son and brother, PFC Floyd F. EAGAN. We also
wish to thank the singers and the American Legion for their services. Mr.
and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN and Children."
June 24, 1948 - "Body of PFC Floyd EAGAN to Arrive
Here Soon" - "The casketed remains of Private First Class Floyd F. EAGAN, a
World War II deceased member of the army from Kinmundy being returned from
overseas for final burial, will arrive within the next five weeks accompanied by
a uniformed army escort from the Chicago Distribution Center of The American
Graves Registration Division. The body of PFC EAGAN was interred in the
USFA, Mil. Cem. Santa Barbara, temporary military cemetery in the Philippine
Islands, but has been returned to this country for final interment at the
request of his next of kin, Harrison R. EAGAN (Father), Kinmundy, Ill."
July 29, 1948 - "Pfc Floyd EAGAN to Arrive Here
Friday Night" - "The casketed remains of PFC Floyd F. EAGAN, will arrive in
Kinmundy on I.C. Train No. 29, Friday evening and will be taken to the home of
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, northwest of this city. Funeral
services will be held Sunday morning at 11 o'clock from the Gymnasium, Elder
DOTY, of Carmi, officiating. Interment will be made in Evergreen Cemetery
under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion. PFC EAGAN
was killed in action on Luzon, Feb. 19, 1945."
Aug. 5, 1948 - "Rites Held Sunday for PFC
Floyd EAGAN: The casketed remains of PFC Floyd EAGAN arrived here Friday night
and was met by members of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion. They were
taken to the home of the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN north of town
where they lay in state until the funeral hour. Funeral services were held
Sunday morning at 11 o’clock from the gymnasium, Rev. DOTY, officiating.
Interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No.
519, American Legion. PFC EAGAN was killed in action on Feb. 19, 1945. He was
interred in the USFA Military Cemetery, Santa Barbara, temporary cemetery in the
Philippine Islands. Floyd, the son of Harrison R. and Lena EAGAN, was born
Sept. 19, 1918 in Alma twp. where he attained his grade school education. The
family moved to their present home just north of the C. & E.I. Lake in 1936 and
Floyd attended our high school, graduation with the class of ‘40. He was a
member of Company L Illinois, National Guard, at Salem. This outfit was
mustered in the U.S. Army March 5, 1941. After training in various camps, it
shipped overseas in July 1943. This outfit, the 33rd Division,
landed on the Hawaiian Islands, going from there to New Guinea, thence to the
East Indies and finally landed in the Philippines about Feb. 1st. He
was killed in action on Feb. 19, 1945. He was a member of the 130th
Infantry. Floyd is another boy who we remember as a very quiet, unassuming lad,
who had a smile for everyone he met. Besides his parents, he is survived by two
brothers, Stephen of this city, and Harold of Champaign, and two sisters, Mary
GORDON and Thelma MOLENHOUR, both of Iuka."
Letters that Floyd Eagan's sister, Mary (Eagan) Gordon,
sent to Floyd overseas, but he was killed before he could read them, and they
were returned to Marion county.
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(V-203) Garrel
Eagan
“The Kinmundy Express"
May 12, 1966 - "Garrel EAGAN has enlisted in the U.S. Navy and
left Thursday for Great Lakes for his boot training."
Aug. 4, 1966 - "FA Garrel EAGAN, Quonset Point, R.I., Pfc James
EAGAN, Fort Riley, Kansas, and Mr. and Mrs. James O. EAGAN and Janet spent
Saturday with Mr. and Mrs. Gary HINDMAN and children in Chester."
Aug. 25, 1966 – “Seaman Recruit Garrel E. EAGAN, USN,
son of Mr. and Mrs. James O. Eagan, Kinmundy, has graduated from 9 weeks of
Naval basic training at the Naval Training Center, Great Lakes. In the
first weeks of his naval service he studied military subjects and lived and
worked under conditions similar to those he will encounter on his first ship or
at his first shore station. In making the transition from civilian
life to Naval service, he received instruction under veteran Naval petty
officers. He studied seamanship, as well as survival techniques, military
drill and other basic subjects.”
Jan. 26, 1967 - "Thank You! I would like to thank all my
friends, neighbors, and relatives, who sent cards, letters, and packages over
the Holiday Season. I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Thanks a million. Garrel E. EAGAN, SA"
Apr. 27, 1967 – “Garrel E. EAGAN, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Eagan,
stationed on board the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVS9) was promoted from
seaman apprentice to seaman on the 3rd of Feb., 1967. Garrell has been serving with the U.S.
Navy since May 5, 1966."
June 22, 1967 - "Seaman Garrel E. EAGAN, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs.
James O. EAGAN of Kinmundy, Ill., is at sea in the eastern Atlantic Ocean on a
combined training and good will cruise aboard the anti-submarine support
aircraft carrier USS Essex. Throughout the expected 4 month cruise, his
ship will be a unit of Anti-Submarine (ASW) Carrier Group One. While at Sea, he
will be taking part in training exercises designed to increase and refine the
techniques of undersea detection. It will include seeking out and
destroying simulate 'enemy' submarines as well as protecting other units of the
carrier group against attack. U.S. submarines at sea will play the role of
the undersea "aggressors." At various times during the cruise, the carrier
group will be visiting European ports of call. While in port, these ships
will conduct "open house", and provide guided tours to the many visitors
expected."
Oct. 5, 1967 – “Seaman Garrel E. EAGAN, USN, son of Mr.
and Mrs. James O. Eagan of Kinmundy, has returned to Newport, R.I. after a 4
month deployment to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean aboard the
anti-submarine warfare support aircraft carrier USS Essex. During the
deployment, the Essex participated in NATO operations with Norwegian, Danish and
Dutch navies. The operation consisted of detecting, localizing, tracking
and simulated kills of enemy submarines. The Essex was also on a good will
mission and hosted more than 35,000 visitors from Hamburg, Germany.”
Dec. 7,
1967 - "Seaman Garrel E. Eagan, USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. James O. Eagan of
Kinmundy participated in a Canadian-United States warfare exercise in the
Western Atlantic while serving aboard the anti submarine warfare aircraft
carrier USS Essex. Canadian Navy vessels combined forces with the Essex and six
other U.S. ships to simulate the localizing, tracing and destruction of mock
enemy submarines. The Essex, homeported at the U.S. naval Air station,
Quonset Point, R.I., serves as mobile airbase and logistic support center for a
Navy Hunter-Killer group."
April 25, 1968 - "Mr. and Mrs. James EAGAN have received word
from J.A. Harkins, Capt. U.S. Navy Commanding Officer of the USS Essex,
notifying them that their son, Garrel, has been promoted to Electronics
Technician 3rd class. In receiving this advancement, the areas of
professional knowledge, performance, length of service and awards received were
all considered. Garrel is serving aboard the USS Essex, which is an
aircraft carrier."
June 20, 1968 – “ETN-3 Garrel EAGAN, USN Quantico, Va.,
is spending a 20 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James O. Eagan and
Janet. He recently returned after 4 months tour of the Mediterranean and
European countries.”
Oct. 31, 1968 – “Electronics Technician Third Class,
Garrel E. EAGAN, USN, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. James O. Eagan of Kinmundy,
participated in the recovery of the Apollo 7 while serving aboard the
anti-submarine warfare aircraft carrier USS Essex, a unit of Task Force One
Forty. The veteran Essex, oldest aircraft carrier in active service, was
selected as the Atlantic Fleet primary recovery ship. The carrier was
positioned along the Apollo launch vehicle ground track, approximately 400 miles
east of
Camp Kennedy,
Fla., to recover the astronauts had there been a launch vehicle malfunction.”
May 8, 1969 – “S.N. Garrel E. EAGAN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. James O. Eagan, returned home Monday after receiving his discharge having
completed his term in the Navy, serving aboard the U.S.S. Essex.”
James O. Eagan
James O. Eagan in France
"The Kinmundy Express”
Nov. 4, 1943 -
"Here's one from Pvt. Jim EAGAN, who is stationed down in Louisiana. He says: I
sure appreciate the Kinmundy Express. Although I haven’t been in long I still
like to hear from home. That might be out thing to remind the public of those
letters from friends and loved ones, they sure help the morale of a soldier. So
folks write to your friends in the service. There isn’t much to tell about the
army. One thing about the engineers they can always find something to have you
do, and another thing they have someone to see that you do it. Thanks a million
for the Kinmundy Express."
Jan. 6, 1944 - "Pvt. James O. EAGAN of Louisana,
spent Saturday and Sunday here with his family."
March 23, 1944 - "Mrs. James O. EAGAN returned
Sunday from Louisiana where she visited a few days with her husband."
Oct. 11, 1945 – “Sgt.
Noah EAGAN and Pvt. James EAGAN meet: Mrs. Gladys EAGAN received word from her sons, Noah and James,
that they had met at Camp Philadelphia,
Reims, France. According to the
word received, the boys have been stationed close to each other and did not know
it. Both boys are expecting to be shipped home soon, as both are high point
men. James’ wife, Mrs. Wanda EAGAN, resides in Kinmundy, and Noah’s wife, Mrs.
Betty EAGAN, resides in Sesser, Ill.”
Dec. 13, 1945 – “James
EAGAN Home: Pvt. James EAGAN arrived home Dec. 3, where he is now spending
some very enjoyable time with his wife and 2 small children. Also, his mother,
Mrs. Gladys EAGAN. James entered the service Sept. 26, 1943 and shipped
overseas March 1, 1944, landing in Casa Blanca. From there he went to Oran and
then to France, where he was stationed for several months, working on a pipe
line. He started home Nov. 19 and landed in Boston, Nov. 30. He received his
discharge at Camp Grant, Dec. 2. Pvt. EAGAN wears
the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the Unit Citation, and the European
Theater Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the campaigns of Southern France and
the Rhineland. James says he intends
to return to his old job in the oil fields.”
James L. Eagan
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 7, 1965 - "Enters Service: Mr. Jim EAGAN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. James O. EAGAN, entered the U.S. Army, Sept. 27th, and is stationed at Fort
Leonard Wood, Mo."
Dec. 9, 1965 - "Friday, Mrs. James O. EAGAN, Janet and Garrel
went to Fort Leonard Wood and picked up Pvt. James EAGAN who is spending the
weekend here with his parents."
Feb. 10, 1966 - "Pvt. James EAGAN, Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. spent
the weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James O. EAGAN and family."
Feb. 17, 1966 - "Army Pvt. James L. EAGAN, son of Mr. and Mrs.
James O. EAGAN, completed a combat engineer course at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.,
Feb. 11. During the 7-week course, EAGAN was trained in the construction
and repair of roads, railroads and bridges. He also received training in
demolitions and mine warfare. EAGAN entered the Army in Sept. 1965 and
received basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. The 22 year old soldier
attended Kinmundy-Alma High School."
Apr. 14, 1966 - "Pvt. James EAGAN, Fort Riley, Kansas, came
Friday for a 10-day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James O. EAGAN and
family."
Aug. 4, 1966 - "FA Garrel EAGAN, Quonset Point, R.I., Pfc James
EAGAN, Fort Riley, Kansas, and Mr. and Mrs. James O. EAGAN and Janet spent
Saturday with Mr. and Mrs. Gary HINDMAN and children in Chester."
Oct. 6, 1966 - "Pfc James EAGAN, Fort Riley, Kansas, was a
Saturday night and Sunday visitor with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James O. EAGAN
and daughter."
Nov. 3, 1966 – “Mr. and Mrs. James O. Eagan have
received word that their son, Jim, arrived in Viet Nam on Oct. 19th.”
Dec. 8, 1966 – “Friday morning, Mrs. James O. Eagan
received a “Christmas Greeting” from Hong Kong in the form of a telephone call
from her son, PFC James L. EAGAN, stationed in Vietnam. He is spending a week
in a rest and recuperation center there. He told his mother, who was the only
one at home to receive the call, that this was early but probably later he would
not have the chance to phone. He also wished to extend a ‘Merry Christmas’ to
all his relatives and friends.”
Jan. 26, 1967 - "Thank You: Sorry I'm a little late, but I'd like to
express my thanks to the many friends, neighbors, and relatives, who sent cards,
letters, and packages over the Holiday Session. I've been out as a Combat
Demolition Specialist with Operation Cedar Falls in the Iron Triangle since
January 8th. Hope you all have a Happy New Year to come. See you
this fall. Sp/4 James L. EAGAN."
Apr. 27, 1967 – “Mr. and Mrs. James O. Eagan received
word March 20th that their son, Specialist 4th Class,
James L. EAGAN has been promoted to Sgt. E5. Sgt. Eagan is serving with the 9th
Engineers Division in the Macoo Deltas. He has been in Vietnam since Oct. 19,
1966.”
Sept. 21, 1967 – “Jim EAGAN, son of Mr. and Mrs. James
O. Eagan, received his discharge from the Army in California Friday and returned
home Saturday after spending the past 11 and one-half months in Vietnam.”
John Eagan
"The Kinmundy Express"
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Volunteers -
Marines: John EAGAN
(V-250c) Noah Eagan
"The Kinmundy Express"
May 27, 1943 - "Promoted - We have received word
that Pvt. Noah EAGAN, who is stationed in Texas, was promoted to Corporal on May
17th. Congratulations."
Oct. 7, 1943 - "Cpl. Noah EAGAN spent Sunday night
and Monday here with his family."
Nov. 25, 1943 - "Cpl. Noah EAGAN of California
arrived Monday on furlough with his family."
March 23, 1944 - Here’s one from T 5 Noah EAGAN, who
is seeing the sights of merry old England at the present time. He says: There
is not much I can tell you. I am now overseas. I didn’t have much time before
leaving, hope you have my new address by now, for I sure enjoy getting the
Express and I am getting my mail O.K. Everything is rationed here. So far we
get 7 packs of cigarettes and 2 candy bars each week. The chow is better over
here, we were always told it was over here before. The trip over was alright.
Some of the boys lost their chow a few times. The morale is good. Haven’t
taken a pass yet, am waiting to take my next ride back and hope it is soon.
Good luck and keep the Express coming our way."
May 11,
1944 - "Here’s a nice letter from T 5 Noah EAGAN,
who from the tone of his letter, is following in the footsteps of his father,
the late Harry EAGAN. He is now in England, so we are wondering if the English
haircuts are any different from ours. Anyway, he says: Still in England and
receiving the paper regularly as possible. No news lately, but I guess the war
is still on as our cigarettes are still rationed. I thought James was going to
get over here but he seems to have gone to Africa. I wish I had some of the boys
APO numbers who are in England. I saw a boy from Centralia last week that I
knew. His twin brother is in my company. The days are long here. It breaks
daylight about 6:20 a.m. and gets dark about 11 p.m. I have never mentioned this
before but I am learning a trade in this army. I was Battalion barber up until
this week, now I cut my own Co.’s and the battalion officers hair and am kept
very busy. This makes me have only one formation each day, revelry. I have got
in about 1 year of barbering now. My army day is from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 6
days a week. I am rated to drive a semi-truck when we move from here. I have had
several different jobs in this outfit. I spent about 5 months as a crane
operator and truck driver, 3 months of this was in the "wilds" of Louisiana on
maneuvers, also spending a month in power shovel school in Virginia. I operated
a power grader in the desert at Imperial Dam and spent some months as assistant
motor Sgt. But the job I like best is thinking of the day when I can be home.
Well, Norris, thanks again for the paper and keep the press rolling. It sure
helps the morale."
Sept. 20, 1945 - "Sgt. Noah EAGAN Writes: Haven’t
written you for some time. But I have been getting the paper regular and so as
I am not much for writing letters and let you go without. But, now if you could
spare me a few moments of your time. I would like to drop in your office and
see if I couldn’t get the Express for now and my older days. I’ve really
enjoyed it while being a soldier. It does for a fellow everything he needs from
home, “In news”. I have read several different “Hometown Papers” while in the
army, but they aren’t put together as the Express. I saw Ray George MILLER and
Russell MOUNT last week at the Riveria Rest Center in Nice, France. I was
supposed to send our picture, but George hasn’t sent it yet. We had been
talking about your paper and thought a picture to you would top off the day.
Thanks again for the paper. I’m scheduled to leave for home the 13th so please
don’t send me the paper, Norris. This should stop them in time. I’ll get all
that are in the mail."
Oct. 11, 1945 – “Sgt.
Noah EAGAN and Pvt. James EAGAN meet: Mrs. Gladys EAGAN received word from her sons, Noah and James,
that they had met at Camp Philadelphia,
Reims, France. According to the
word received, the boys have been stationed close to each other and did not know
it. Both boys are expecting to be shipped home soon, as both are high point
men. James’ wife, Mrs. Wanda EAGAN, resides in Kinmundy, and Noah’s wife, Mrs.
Betty EAGAN, resides in Sesser, Ill.”
Nov. 22, 1945 – “T4 Noah EAGAN arrived in Kinmundy Nov. 15th to visit his
mother, Mrs. Gladys EAGAN, for a few days. He received his discharge from Camp
Atterbury, Ind. Nov. 1, and has been spending the intervening time with his wife
and son in Sesser in the home of her parents. Noah entered the service in Jan.
1943, and shipped overseas in October 1943, landing in England. From there he
went to France, Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany. He started home Oct. 14th and
landed at Norfolk, Va. Oct. 7. Sgt. EAGAN wears
the Good Conduct Medal, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 5 stars,
representing the battles of Rhineland, Normandy, Ardennes, Central
Europe, and Northern France, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, and the
Presidential Ribbon. Noah will return to his former position in Mattoon within
a few days.”
Ralph Eagan
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Jan. 24, 1946 –“Omega: Ralph EAGAN, who is now discharged from the army, is at
home with his parents in Siloam District.”
Stephen Eagan
"The Kinmundy Express"
July 10, 1941 - Merle JACKSON, Christy GENTRY,
Stephen and Floyd EAGAN, all of Camp Forest, Tenn. are home on furlough this
weekend.
Oct. 16, 1941 - "Kenneth JACKSON motored to Camp
Forrest, Tenn. Friday. Merle JACKSON, Harold JONES and Floyd and Steven
EAGAN, Eary GENTRY, Dwight WILLIAMS, and James HILL of Sigel accompanied him to
Kinmundy. Others home on furlough are Bob HANNA and James BASSETT."
Apr. 2, 1942 - "Privates First Class Stephen and
Floyd EAGAN of Camp Forrest, Tenn., came Saturday night to spend 7 day furlough
with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN."
Don Eblin
"The
Kinmundy Express”
March 27, 1952 - "(Omega from last week): Donnie EBLIN and
sister, Geneva ANDERSON, left for California Sunday where Geneva will join her
husband who is stationed in an army camp there."
Jan. 13, 1955 – “Pleasant Grove: Pvt. Don EBLIN, who was
home on furlough, and Doug GOODWIN and Charles WHITNEY called on Mr. and Mrs.
Clyde ROSE, Jackie and Mrs. Georgia EBLIN Saturday night.”
May 5, 1955 - "Don EBLIN called at the Clyde ROSE home Monday
night. He returned home from the Army a few days ago."
(V-224) Rudolph J. Edwards
Spanish-American War Veteran - This badge was possibly worn at a reunion of
veterans.
Thomas L. Edwards
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 15, 1944 - "The following from this community
will leave soon for their preinduction examination Noah Jackson FERRELL, Garrell
Floyd JONES, Thomas Leroy EDWARDS."
Aug. 31, 1944 - "Omega: Thomas EDWARDS, who is in
the Merchant Seaman service, is home."
Jan. 10, 1946 –“Omega: Thomas EDWARDS and Virgil HARRIS are home on furlough and
were in Omega, Saturday.”
Jan. 14, 1954: "Thomas EDWARDS
Declared Dead August 7, 1952: Mrs. Ruth EDWARDS, of Salem, received word
Thursday from the government, declaring her husband, Thomas L. EDWARDS, 28,
officially dead. Thomas, a member of the Marines, was reported missing in
action on Aug. 7, 1952 in Korea. He had previously been wounded and sent back
into action. Mrs. EDWARDS is a bookkeeper for the Marion County Service Co.
There are 2 small daughters. Thomas was also a brother to Mrs. Kenneth
WILKINSON, residing south of this city."
Jan. 28, 1954: "Thomas EDWARDS
Memorial Sunday: Memorial services will be held for Thomas L. EDWARDS in the
Baptist church in Iuka Sunday with Rev. Delbert GOIF, the pastor, in charge.
The services will be concluded in the East Lawn Cemetery in Salem, where a
monument will be dedicated to his honor. The services in the cemetery will be
in charge of the Salem Post American Legion. Friends are welcome to call
at the Edwards home, 1108 E. Church St., Salem, anytime this week. And
flowers may be taken to the home or left at the Atkins funeral home. It will be remembered that Thomas
was reported missing in action in Korea on Aug. 7, 1952. There were hope of him
being alive but his name has not appeared on the prisoner list. Therefore, the
government has officially declared him dead. The deceased leaves a wife and 2
small daughters living in Salem. A sister, Mrs. Kenneth WILKINSON, resides
south of Kinmundy."
D.B. Egelston
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 18, 1943 - "In the Service: D.B. EGELSTON"
Jan. 4, 1945 - "In the Service: D.B. EGELSTON"
James Micahel Eischens
"The Kinmundy Express" - Oct.
13, 2005 - (From his obituary): .....He grew up on a family farm
outside Miltown, Wisconsin. After graduating from high school, he joined
the Navy, serving briefly at the end of World War II and was recalled later to
serve in the Korean Conflict. ......"
(FE-8) Abram Elder - Pension
Card
(FE-17) William Gore Elder
with step-mother Margaret (Caldwell) Elder
Larry W. Elkins
"The Kinmundy Express"
March
31, 1966 - "Marine Private Larry W. Elkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Elkins
of Rt. 2, Kinmundy, has graduated from Marine recruit training at the Marine
Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, Calif. During his eight weeks of
intensified recruit training under veteran noncommissioned officer Drill
Instructors, he learned small arms marksmanship, bayonet fighting and methods of
self-protection. He also received instruction in military drill history
and traditions of the Marne Corps, and other academic subjects. He will
undergo four weeks of individual combat training and four weeks of basic
specialist training in his military occupational field before being assigned to
a permanent unit."
May 18,
1967 - "Marine Lance Corporal Larry W. Elkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth
Elkins of Rt. 2, Kinmundy is in Phu Bai, Vietnam as an artilleryman with the
Third Marine Division. He is attached to the Fourth Battalion of the Twelfth
Marines. His Battalion’s primary mission is to provider artillery support to
units of a Marine division in an amphibious assault and subsequent operations
ashore."
James Ellis
"The Kinmundy Express"
Oct. 21, 1943 - "Sgt. and Mrs. James ELLIS of Texas,
announce the arrival of, James Walton, weight 7 lbs. 9 oz. on July 25th.
Sgt. ELLIS is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewie JEZEK living north of this city."
Nov. 4, 1943 - "Here is a letter from Cpl. James
ELLIS, who is stationed down in Texas for the present. He says: I hardly know
how to write to you. I have never met you but feel as though I know you very
well indeed, perhaps through your most human and interesting column, ‘Zatso’. I
find your servicemen letters most interesting. We of the service like to know
what other boys are doing and this is the only way we have of knowing. I am the
oldest JEZEK boy. One of my brothers has been in the Aloutian Islands for 18
months, John is in Africa and Edward is in England. I am the only one here
now. I had to take a demotion to Corporal to transfer to the Army Air Forces
for the aerial gunner school in Texas. My class starts one week from Monday.
Last week after being here just 4 days I fired from a plane with 14 other boys
as an experiment for the field. We were chosen from 600 men. We did very
good. This is the first time this has ever been done for the boys do not fire
nor do they go up in a plane until the last week of school. I hope to meet you
on my next trip home. Thank you so much for this most welcome paper. I
sincerely hope I get thru this school for I want to be off in a Liberator for
Tokyo because we have a cousin, Russell ARNOLD, who is a Japanese prisoner,
captured in the Philippine campaign. Regards to everyone."
Jan. 20, 1944 - "Here’s one from James ELLIS way
down in Florida. Say what is this? The JEZEK boys sure hit the jackpot this
week by writing. Anyway here is what he says: As it has been over a year since
I have written to you here goes. I have a new address which I hope to report at
the end if my paper holds out. I am 9 miles but of Tampa at the Mac Dill
Field. This is a replacement training unit. We have Flying Fortresses only.
The Chamber of Commerce has over rated Florida about 500 per cent. This
beautiful sunshiny weather (when the sun shines) is so damp that it penetrates
to the bone and makes me think of damp April weather in Kinmundy. I don’t mind
telling you I’ll still take the snow and zero weather in preference to this. We
are quartered in shacks discarded by General Lee in the Civil War as unfit for
Confederate soldiers. The cracks in the floor and sides are so large a four
week old pig would have no trouble getting into the building at all. My first
night was spent beneath 3 blankets and my sheep skin flying suit and shoes still
I woke up cold. The southern hospitality was forgotten long ago and the poor
civilians pay as much for food as they do rent. Tell those people who do not
know how to appreciate Kinmundy and it’s climate until it is to late - believe
me, I know. I have a crew which I will have all the time now. They are
scattered across the U.S., one from Michigan, Washington, D.C., California,
Texas, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma and North Dakota. I have one real American, a
full blood Indian from a tribe in Oklahoma. My particular duty is that of a
tail gunner in the famous Flying Fortress. On a trip the other day I was
thinking of my kid brother, Vernon JEZEK, and all the other kids in Kinmundy on
what a thrill this ride would be for them and what fun. It was only routine for
me. It seems so funny to start out with your regular clothes on around plus a
sheepskin flying suit, sheepskin overshoes, helmet and gloves. You are
perspiring terribly but within an hour you are real cold and the weather is from
10 to 30 below zero. When you are only one mile and three fourths into the air
you start using oxygen and the temperature is ten to 25 degrees above zero at 6
miles in the air, 30,000 feet the temperature is zero to 15 below, and at 38,000
feet (7 miles) the air is so thin you can’t talk. A fly can’t even fly, all he
can do is crawl around on the plane, if he attempts to fly he falls. If your
oxygen mask came off you would be dead in 2 minutes at this height. The tail of
a Fortress has plenty of room. I can store plenty of ammunition and can moved
freely. This is the easiest position to shoot. Our greatest danger is flak,
which comes from anti-aircraft shells fired from the ground and explode and
puncture your ship on the order of shrapnel. After cruising around for an hour
or so at 20,000 feet many is the time I wish that I had a thermos bottle filled
with hot coffee. After 30,000 feet occasionally one becomes affected with the
“Bends”. This is a nitrogen air bubble which lodges in one of your joints,
causing severe pain, and you act just like a person with a severe case of
rheumatism. Bubbles at this height are seven times their size at ground level.
The way we avoid bends is starting using oxygen on the ground and continue on
your way up. This eliminates the nitrogen from your body. Please tell everyone
to keep writing the boys in the service even though they don’t hear. A boy
overseas is permitted to write just 2 letters a week in most war zones. I
understand they are mighty sad when no letters come for him. This applies in
cases of men overseas. I am enclosing $1.00 which I want you to throw into a
fund you have for the defraying of expenses for the newspaper sent to the boys.
I haven’t received the paper or any other mail for 6 weeks but eventually it
will catch up with me. To the people back home (for the sake of the service
men) please forget the strikes and bittering for we all want to come home to
stay as quick as we can. Help us all you can for we have no choice about
anything."
March 30, 1944 -
"Here's another nice letter from Cpl James ELLIS
(one of the JEZEK boys) who is flying around over Florida. He says: After
reading your Zatso column about the fishing of a one Mr. LOWE, in Florida, I
wish to relate a little salt water fishing of my own. About 2 weeks ago,
four of us rented a large boat with guide for $12. We had four chairs in
the back and we sat down just like President Roosevelt in the movies. The
guide would take care of our lines and throw them out. All we had to do
was reel the fish in, and brother, we did that very thing. We caught over
100 mackerel in less than an hour using a spinner hook. We caught a bushel
of blue runners, some kingfish, a flounder, angel fish, lady fish, and some
sheepshead. We caught one large catfish and two sixteen pound drum fish.
These fish are not good to eat. The story is these two fish are mourning
in salt water, making them no good to eat. We used some fiddler crabs for
bait. There are millions of them on the shore. They look like large
brown spiders except the males have one large pinch like a crawfish. Let
me tell you, we were sure tired that night, but had a lot of fun. To top
it all off, we could only keep two large mackerel a piece. All the rest
became property of the guide and the boat for marketing, as this is the only way
it can be obtained for the boat. I would like very much to obtain the
address of Tony PERGL. The last I knew he was in Hawaii and belonged to
the coast artillery. I want to take this opportunity in behalf of the
service men to thank all of you people back home for all you have done for us in
the way of food, equipment, bonds, blood bank, Red Cross, and U.S.O. We
think it is swell. Keep it up. We are proud of you and Mr. VALLOW
for your special effort for our morale, thanks a million, for the paper with all
those wonderful letters. The men returning from overseas have had only two
gripes to amount to anything. One was strikes which made them very bitter.
The other was high salaries and large corporation profits some were getting,
which seemed to us as if these people did not love their country very much.
Politics we leave to you back home for you know what is best, as we are too far
away from the picture. My training is nearly complete with just two weeks
to go. It has been very interesting and a lot of fun. We have had
ground school one half of each day learning all about the plane. We have
studied engineering, armament, camouflage, anti-aircraft, chemical warfare,
bombs and bomb racks, small arms, navigation, first aid and medical lectures.
We have had lectures and secret movies every day as well as training movies.
In flying the other half day, we have had bombing missions, navigation missions,
gunnery missions, camera missions, instrument flying, etc. We have each
gained a lot of knowledge and experience in a very short time. Our
instructors have been men back from combat missions with 25 to 50 missions.
They have given as many pointers for which we are very thankful. We have
all the latest equipment plus battle knowledge for which are thankful. We
feel we are ready for the big show. We get along splendid as crew.
Our pilot was a former Boston Red Sox baseball player. Three of us are
married. I am the only father of the group. I have read several
letters of Kinmundy boys in the Air Corps ground crew. These ground crew
men do a lot of hard work and often work 18 hours a day. These are the men
who keep our ship in the air. We think a lot of them for they are a part
of us. We take the plane where they leave off. While in the air,
these men are 'sweating' the mission out and are ever so happy when they see us
come rolling in. I certainly would like to meet these Kinmundy boys of the
Air Corps. You boys in the other branches of service, we know that perhaps
unduly we get a little too much glory. All we can do is help. You
are the men who are going to win it for us. and you are the fellows who do the
dirty work. To you should go ever so much more honor and glory than you
get. We know that. So I say regards to everyone and would like to
hear from the BROOM boy in India.
Feb. 8, 1945 -
"Here’s a nice letter from Sgt. James ELLIS,
who is with a Bomber Squadron in England. Here’s what he says: Just finished the
article written by Johnny BROOM. Was amused at "four years", but believe me,
we’ll both be home before our beards turn gray. I, myself, have nearly that much
time with a slight interlude. I was thinking about Mr. BROOM’s peach orchard one
summer nearly an eternity ago when Johnny, Charles, Howard DOWNEY and I were
worming Mr. BROOM’s peach tree and all the fun we had. Now it seems that it
didn’t happen in our time. A reflection of my army service seems a lifetime.
When I was first drafted, I wound up at Camp Roberts, Cal. in the infantry.
However, the army decided I was too old so I wound at my old desk in the theater
at Chicago. Pearl Harbor made a young man of me and I was quickly recalled. My
outfit had already landed in Australia, so I was sent to the Chicago Recruiting
and Induction Service and was placed in DEML. I spent many happy days there. The
army again ended that by sending all general service men to line outfits when
limited service and WACs became popular for desk jobs. I took another train ride
and woke up one morning in the Tank Destroyers. I liked this very much so took
an OCS test and was passed by the board and moved up 28 on the waiting list.
Shortly after this my hips started to give me trouble caused by all those long
hikes. I had sat in that easy chair for 10 long years, so was toughened up in
the wrong places. The big boys flew over us a lot so I decided to give up my
chance to be an officer. Being a lazy man, I thought I would rather ride than
walk. The "Heanies" got me and I like it very much. As you all know, I am in
England. I came over ahead of my crew on a boat nearly a year ago I had to wait
for them. Before the rest arrived I obtained a pass and went to Coventry. When I
got off the train, the first boy I saw was standing in front of me, ragged,
dirty-faced, about five and was smiling. He said, "Do you fly the Heanies," I
said, "Yes." That was a mistake because he would not leave me so we became
friends. He got all my candy and gum. He called me "chum" as that is their
favorite expression. Nothing would do but that I see his grandmother. When I
started up the street hardly anything was left. Everything had been severally
bombed and burned out. Even now bodies are being found and the rubbish is still
being cleaned. This boy’s whole family was killed, all he had left was his
grandmother, who was nearly blind and lived in a small part of a house. When the
little boy told her that I was an airman, her face lit up and with a very stern
bitterness, she said, "Son, give them one for us, and do it good." What little
she had to eat she wanted to give me, but I just couldn’t. Already I was
thinking, "what if this was my little boy and I was coming home." A lump and a
bad taste came into my mouth. Later she told me that an American officer wanted
to take him to the States and adopt him for he certainly was a nice shaver. I
came to this base ahead of my crew, who finally caught up with me. I flew one
mission before they came. One engine went out so we trailed behind over the
target and back. I was wet for there was a report of bandits in the air and I
really did sweat that one out. When they came we had a reunion, a few drinks,
and a lot of talk. A week later we were introduced to our plane "Miss B Haven."
It carried the picture of a Navajo girl back to us, one leg up, head to us
smiling, for she was in the process of removing her unmentionables. She took us
for many a ride. Twice our oxygen went out and we had to carry bottles in our
laps. A few times we exercised our guns and flak rolled us around often. One day
she was grounded and we flew a ship, "Rosie’s Sweat Box." Master Sergeants were
on the flak guns that day and we came back with 28 holes, some pretty big. We
all felt bad when another crew flew our ship and had to crash land it in
Belgium. That was old Miss B Haven’s 65th trip. Our new ship carries the picture
of my red-headed cousin in Chicago, Miss Joan KOHL and the name of it is
"Strictly Kopasectic." We wanted everything O.K. always, so started on the right
foot. One trip six ME-109's were on our tail. Four cued up to attack us and the
other two were amusing us. Just as the four started in, a P-51 came in behind
and got all four before I fired a shot. He flew by, dipped his wings and I waved
back and said "Thank you" Little Friend". (They call us big friends.) When I
came back and in the briefing room the flight surgeon gave me 2 shots of spirits
for I was shaky but this braced me and I thought of that little boy and carried
on. We were well on our way to a Happy Christmas and even obtained liquid
refreshments. Jerry had hit the First Army. My brother Edward is in that outfit
and had already received a Purple Heart for excellent work in the Hurtgen Forest
where he was wounded. Turkey or nothing else mattered except to help the boys.
There is nothing we would rather do than help our ground boys for we can see
immediate results. We were very nervous and agitated because fog was thick as
pea soup and we couldn’t get up. Finally it cleared and we were going every day.
We got tired as "Hell" but the next morning when the C.O. said you have another
chance to help the boys, we were eager. I’m ready, always, because my brother is
in there, I can still see that little English lad and his grandmother. I keep
thinking of my little boy at home and I know it must be done. These Jerries are
not fooling and are not playing and if we give them another chance later you can
bet your bottom dollar you will see your home as I saw this English boy’s home.
Regards to all you service men, wherever you are.'"
March 15, 1945: Here's one from James ELLIS, who is
sojourning in England. His letter was dated 19 February and says:
"Enclosed is a photograph for your rogues gallery. This picture shows me
as I fly except that my oxygen mask does not show. You see my heated suit,
helmet and parachute harness. Missing is my flak suit and flak helmet.
The picture I am holding is that of my red headed cousin, Joan KOHL of Chicago.
The nose of our plane carries her picture and the name is "Strictly Kopasectic"
as you can see on the photo. Here photograph is considered a good luck
charm by the crew. She has been with us on all missions with our new ship
and we have come thru tight missions O.K. time and time again. So you see
would you rather go without one of the men than to leave the picture behind.
Regards to everyone. I hope to see Kinmundy, you, and all the rest of the
folks sometime in April. The one person who has done the most for us and
was always with us was God. Even those who did not believe - do before many
trips. Again, so-long, and regards."
May 17, 1945 - "S/Sgt. James ELLIS in Miami, Fla.:
April - S/Sgt. James ELLIS, 34, of Kingman, Kan., has arrived at Army Air Forces
Redistribution Station No. 2 in Miami Beach for reassignment processing after
completing a tour of duty outside the continental United States. Sergeant
ELLIS flew 30 missions as a gunner in the European Theater winning the Air Medal
with four clusters. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Louie JEZEK, of
Kinmundy. His wife, Martha ELLIS, resides in Kingman, Kan."
Aug. 30, 1945 – “Here’s one from S. Sgt. James ELLIS, who has seen overseas duty
but is now stationed in Texas. He expects to be out soon and says: Sometime
during the month of Sept., you will have the pleasure of addressing me as Mr.
when I call upon you to pay the $1.50 I owe for the paper as I want to continue
it as a civilian. I can well remember the days in England when everyone said,
“Just get back to the States, you’ll be the first one out.” Well, even with my
112 points, it took V-J Day to do it, and only when the Army did it wholesale -
everyone over 84 points. So you see boys Overseas, you got 20 percent extra for
sweating it out with me, and you may still be in Kinmundy before I am. To be a
little serious while I was home on furlough I was consistently asked 2 questions
I will attempt to answer tonight. The First - What was my worst day of combat,
or the toughest day of all overseas? The second - What do I think of a peace
time draft? In regards to the first - My roughest day of combat. Four members
of our crew and myself had just reported back to our barracks off a 48 hour pass
which we had spent in London. We all had plenty of mail in our sacks, I
believe that I had 15 letters in all; three of which I especially remember
because they all bore the same date, and upon checking with another date, came
to mean a great deal to me and one of the mysteries hard to understand if you
are not a believer in God. The first letter from my parents in Kinmundy was
pretty blue. They had all been sick with a touch of the grippe and had not
worked for a few days and everything seems to be upset which made me feel a
little bad, but everyone has those things so I dismissed it and picked up the
second letter. This was from an Army Nurse. She was writing for me to try and
come to France to see my brother, Ed, who was wounded in the hospital and she
thought I would be good for his morale. She went on to say - your brother has
had a bad shock. His outfit, the 28th Division (nicknamed Keystone) and called
the “Bucket of Blood” or “Bloody Bucket” by the Germans because of it’s
reputation and it’s shoulder insignia was a red patch resembling a buck
somewhat, has had very tough sledding in the Hurtgen Forest and its ranks were
sadly depleted. She went on to say that my brother’s entire Battery had been
surrounded by the Jerries and they decided to shoot their way out. The fight
lasted several hours, but out of the battery, only 5 got back to the American
lines, and my brother was one of the five, but he had been wounded. The rest of
his battery was either killed or captured. These 5 men were later awarded the
Bronze Star, but as my brother later said, he would rather trade it for one of
his buddies. Later I found the date of this action identical with my toughest
mission. Sorry to say that I was unable to get leave to go see my brother at
that time. The third letter was from my wife. She and my little boy were all
right, but all during the previous my little boy, who did not know me at all,
and thousands of miles away from me, kept consistently asking for his daddy and
crying. That night all during the night my wife said she slept in catnaps and
would wake up screaming and yelling “Daddy, Daddy, Daddy.” She found this hard
to explain. He had never done it before and she knew he was not sick. This
made me curious and I must admit that this was the letter that started me
checking dates. The first thing I thought of was my list of missions. I got it
down and sure enough, there it was. LEIPSIG-GERMANY for me was the roughest of
them all as well as the crew. Much later we learned that this was the heaviest
defended of all areas in Germany against air attack. The triangle area of
Merseburg - Madgeburg - Leipsig was about a 75 miles long triangle. IN this was
found the German Army proving Ground for new weapons resembling our Abeerdeen,
Md. Proving Grounds. In this area was Synthetic Oil Plants and Storage Tanks.
V-1 and V-2 Factories were in this area as well as their new Rocket and Jet
propelled plane factories. At any place in this area you had 1000 batteries
firing at you or 2000 shells everytime the guns fired. You never could fly
higher than they could shoot. At 4 p.m. we checked the bulletin board.
BROWN’s crew was scheduled for a mission the next day so we ate and went to the
movie. It was “A Guy Named Joe”. On the way back we stopped by the mess hall
for a few slices of bread to take to the barracks. One of the boys had received
some cheese from home so we had toast and cheese. By the time we hit the hay it
was 10:30 p.m. The green light was still burning which meant there would be a
mission. None of us could sleep, kept tossing and turning, several times I sat
upright in bed for no reason at all and the boys said I had nightmares and kept
them awake. I guess this was as good excuse as any for I noticed that none of
them were sleeping either. At 1:10 the door swung open and we all to a man,
were setting upright in our beds. Lucky said briefing at 2:30 so we all hopped
out of bed, dressed, caught our truck and went to the mess hall for 2 fried
eggs, cereal and oranges. I always took my orange with me for on the mission
they always froze as hard as a rock and I liked to suck on them coming back over
the English Channel. In the briefing room we noticed that we were flying in the
Lead Squadron and were flying TAILEND CHARLIE. We didn’t like that for this
also had another name, “THE PURPLE HEART CORNER”. To top it all off we did not
have our own plane. The M.P.’s had finally collected all the passes. The
Colonel came in and the door was locked. He raised up the movie curtain and we
saw that our target was LEIPZIG. We had heard about it before but this was our
first trip there. Our primary bombing was for some underground oil tanks. The
secondary was V-2 and Jet Propelled plane factories, and last resort was an
Airfield in Germany up the Rhine River. After weather briefing we gunners were
excused. We went the Armament shop for our guns. It was pitch dark and we had
to be careful how we used our lights. After the guns were installed and checked
we helped the Bombardier check his bombs. At the last minute something went
wrong with No. 4 engine and we had to change to the spare ship. We had no time
to check this thoroughly. We just had 45 minutes to catch the formation at the
English Channel which we did. This ship “SHADE RUFF” had a record of 72
missions already and was pretty beat up but was about as good a FLYING FORTRESS
as ever hit Germany. It was daylight now and I could see other groups behind.
Many of the “HEAVIES” were up this day and we knew that Germany was going to
catch H____ this date. We were routed over the front lines where the English
were this time to help their morale for they had run into some hard fighting.
Flying along at 27,000 feet, nearly 6 miles in the air, we had about another
hour until I.P. time which is the beginning time of the bomb run. A report came
over the V.H.F. “Bandits in the Air”, however, we saw none. Number two oxygen
system had gone out over the front lines as 2 bursts of flak came near us and
one piece had penetrated the oil line. The Pilot, Navigator and Radio Man were
on the Oxygen bottles now. No enemy planes sighted to the I.P. coming onto the
I.P. The Co-pilot said that there was a big black cloud ahead. For us not to
worry, it was only black smoke from some has been flak. We had a 20 minute
run. From the beginning we ran into Box barrage and predicted our tracking
flak. The smoke was so thick, I could hardly see our low Squadron. We finally
lost the high and low. A large burst just ahead of our number 3 engine tore out
our oil line on that engine so the pilot feathered this one. Another large
burst right behind the right wing tore a large hole thru the radio room and a
piece came thru the side and knocked the waist gunner down. He called me over
the phone and said “Ellis, I’m dead.” I said, “No, you are not for you can talk
to me.” He was scared, the piece was about 4 inches long and one-half inch
thick. His flak suit saved him. They were tracking us down at 5 o’clock and at
7 o’clock even. They were tracking with one battery that was directly bursting
underneath and as I was in the tail I kept telling the pilot to take it up - up
- up and up. He was using some evasive action but it was almost impossible to
know where to go. It was bursting ahead, over at our sides, underneath, and
right behind us. We had no choice but pray and that was what I done for 30
straight minutes. The poor plane was tossed every which way. I had a lot of
bruises. We did not hit the primary. The lead wires to the bombs had been
severed. The deputy took over. We made a 360 or circle, still in flak all this
time and came back over it. This time weaving back and forth. Something
happened again. So number three took over and we went on and finally had to
drop on the Airfield at Halberstadt. WE HAD BEEN IN EXTENSIVE FLAK FOR 42
STRAIGHT MINUTES. The record for the Eighth Air Force is 44. Out of the flak
area we took Inventory. Every plane had one or more engines feather. Some had
big gaping holes in their sides. Part of the wings, tails, and nose were shot
clear away. My right tail stabilizer not three feet from me had a big hole
large enough for a baseball to fly thru. In my window two had just missed my
head about the size of a quarter. I was carrying my mother’s Bible, which I did
on every mission. A piece of flak had ripped up the right sleeve of the
Navigator’s arm. Another large piece had cut clear away the whole right sole of
the co-pilot’s heated shoe and overshoe, had it been 3 inches higher, he would
have no foot today. The Engineer had the dome of his turret blown off but he
miraculously escaped injury. We were lucky that we were not hit by fighters on
the way back or none of us would be here today. When we finally landed at our
home base we had the least holes of all 28. The average amount was 218 and one
had 432 holes. They all came back which speaks a lot for the B-17. Our colonel
said by the law of averages, we all should have been down in Germany. We had
for that one mission, all the planes to repair - 15 dead men and 25 more
wounded. My best buddy - a tail gunner - in the plane next to ours was killed.
Flak had severed his jugular vein. Before they could get to him, he was dead.
I am happy to say that I got to drop bombs 3 times as a toggler. The last time
on my last mission, Feb. 22, 1945. At briefing that day, we were told that this
date was the beginning of the battle of Germany and we should do extra good
today. 4,000 planes were out. We had to knock out a crossing where 3 railroads
came together. The town was LUDWIGLUST Germany. Pictures showed we got it
100%. To any boy in Germany, who will send me a picture of that railroad
crossing at LUDWIGLUST, I will give one dollar. I want a ground picture. I
have an air picture. Now to answer the second question. It is my belief that
we should be prepared but I say do it in the following manner. During your high
school term, one night a week should be spent with the National Guard studying
Basic, etc. After you are graduated from high school during that 3 month summer
vacation, you should be sent to maneuvers some place and at that conclusion your
training is finished until such time as the country might have to call upon
you. Before I would ever vote for such an outright draft for my son, I would
want the following changes to the Army: - We preach democracy, make our army
one. Promotions straight up the line from the ranks, never stopping at Warrant
Officers. - Stop the antagonizing policy of saluting or bringing down so that
everybody salutes everyone else. Do away with the cast system. - The Articles
of War are compulsory for men where punishment is concerned. Must be read every
6 months. Make the ones that help the G.I. Compulsory to be read also. - Place
court martial representation on a 50-50 basis. One half enlisted men and the
other half Officer on a General Court Martial. The Enlisted Man should have his
own enlisted lawyer. - When the work day is done, Ranks should be equal as far
as sociability is concerned. I highly advise a service club where EM and
Officers can mingle if they so desire. I find that many officers resent this
barrier as much as the enlisted men. - M.P.’s should be 30 years of age and
over at all times. The petty things enforced upon M.P.’s by certain Provost
Marshalls such as hauling a man in for a shirt sleeve unbuttoned, etc., and
fined $25, or a week’s restriction should definitely be done away with and the
Provost who suggested it be made to suffer this punishment. - Inspection
Officers who visit overseas units from the Inspector General’s department should
come right into the barracks and find out what is going on. To many outfits
have been abused because certain officers thought they were Almighty God. The
men were left high and dry with Court Martial staring them in the face if they
wrote to their Congressman or the President about certain conditions. That is
why I say that the Enlisted Lawyer, who is looking out for the welfare of the
men of his battalion, should make a monthly report restricted direct to the
Commanding General of his outfit, and not THRU CHANNELS. Regards to the fellows
and Boys. I never was court martialed but I saw a lot of things that should
have been changed. Lucky we all did as good as we did.”
Sept. 27, 1945 – “Fort Sheridan, Ill., Sept. 29, 1945 - "Staff Sgt. James ELLIS
is leaving here today for his home at Kinmundy, Ill. after being
honorably discharged from the Army Air Force. Sgt. ELLIS entered the service
May 28, 1941, and served 12 months overseas with the 8th Air Force based in
England where he was assigned duty as B-17 Flying Fortress as a tail gunner. He
completed 30 combat missions, winning the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters,
ETO ribbon with 4 campaign stars, and the Good Combat Medal. Sgt. ELLIS is the
husband of Martha M. ELLIS, of Kingman, Kansas, and the son of Mr. and
Mrs. Louie JEZEK of Kinmundy, Ill. Following his return from
overseas, Sgt. ELLIS has been stationed at Bryan Army Airfield, Texas, an
instrument instructors pilot school of the Army Air Forces Central Flying
Training Command. Prior to his entrance into the armed forces, Sgt. ELLIS was a
theater manager for Balaban & Katz Theater Corp., Chicago, Ill., and expects to return to
his former job.”
John Ellis
"The Kinmundy Express"
May 25, 1967 - John Walter ELLIS
(grandson of Mrs. Bertha JEZEK of this city), went directly to the service from
high school and has just completed a six weeks course for Non-Commissioned
Officers at the 7th Army's NCO Academy near Strutgard Germany, ranking No. 10
out of a class of 135. He will take over the Battalion Communications
system transmitting and interpreting codes etc. in lien of an officer, who at
this time, is not available for the job. He is with the 79th ARTY - 3rd Bn
- C BTRY - near Geissen Germany."
Oct. 17, 1968 - "Mrs. Jim ELLIS,
Kingman, Kansas and son, SP2 John ELLIS, spent from Wednesday until Saturday
with Mrs. Helen JEZEK and sons, John had just returned after serving two years
in Germany. After spending a thirty day leave with his family, he will
report for duty in Vietnam."
(V-53)
Tiny L. Ellis
"The Kinmundy Express"
Jan. 20, 1944 -
"Here’s one from the Aleutians written on
Jan. 3 from Sgt. Tiny ELLIS. He says: Just another one was mentioned within your
column previously and wish to fill the request of my dear commentator. Your
papers have come frequently thru terrain seldom heard of, but playing an
interesting part in this war, but must say they are accomplishing great
achievements toward keeping morale posted on local news of home affairs. So may
I thank you for kind appreciation in sending vital information we have no other
way of accumulating on local news. Publishing letters written by men on various
fronts of the world explain many answers our mothers and fathers worry over that
are not necessary. Nearly 2 years ago this continent was invaded by desperate
fighting people called Nipponese, who could never get along with themselves much
less peaceful people as we are. And thru our 2 great military leaders, Lt. Gen.
Simon B. BUCKNER and Vice Admiral Thomas C. KINKAID, we eliminated the yellow
rascals from the Aleutians and in which we duly credit forces that may of
participated within it. Maybe it could have been done sooner with a higher cost
of human lives, but I don’t think it would have been worthy in cause, so let us
congratulate our leaders and it’s staff for completing the job it set out to do.
Not quite 2 years ago I left the States for destination unknown, as to what we
were to do, had little interest, only wanting to complete our mission and return
home where our loved ones live, and yet we have not fulfilled our goal by
defeating the enemies. I’ve seen men feed the fish several times by leaning over
the rail or bow of a ship, but never have I seen men thrown off in the water to
walk ashore with ice freezing on their clothing as soon as the air hit them
(only in movies). Those are just a few incidents seen throughout my army life.
The interior of Alaska is quite interesting with Eleuts and Eskimo people
populating 3 quarters of it and really sports in hunting, trapping and mining is
a popular event to us soldiers, for we’ve been softies so long it made us
realize what we were fighting for. Delightful scenery can be obtained from a
distance thru cars passing by a small highway leading into gorgeous mountains
with streams of cold water seeping down crevices of snow capped mountains into a
booklet of running fish called trout. Now drifting westward, I leave your
imagination stress upon itself of hardships were may have suffered on a barren
isolated spot within the Pacific ocean. Recreation facilities are wonderful
compared to what I’ve read on various other front lines. We have had a few
celebrities, such as Errol Flynn, Martha Q. Briscoll, Ruth Carroll and Jimmy
Dodd. Also a representative from Washington, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, who
played a vital part in World War I of the Air Corps. Movies are nothing but the
latest pictures made such as: Coney Island, Sweet Rosie O’Grady, and many more I
can’t recall just now. So if ever the war is over, just pack up your old gray
bonnet and catch the next transport going to Tokyo for a vacation under Northern
Lights of Alaska."
Dec. 28, 1944 -
"Sgt. Tiny ELLIS Home: After 31½ months in the Aleutain Islands, Sgt. Tiny L. ELLIS
arrived here Saturday to spend his 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Louie JEZEK, and family. Sgt. ELLIS has been in the army for 38 months and
his homecoming has certainly been a pleasure to his parents, relatives, and
friends. He has been attached to the Aviator Engineers in the Aleutians. After
his furlough has lapsed, he will report to Gigar Field, Spokane, Wash., for
reassignment. Sgt. ELLIS naturally, can relate many stories about the Aleutians.
The islands are barren and unhabited. But they do make an excellent base for us,
which is their only use at this time. The weather is very bad which is the main
hardship our boys have to endure. Needless to say that Sgt. ELLIS is exceedingly
happy to set foot back in the United States, and more so, to see his relatives
and many friends around here again."
Charles Elston
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 2, 1965 –“In Navy: Charles ELSTON, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Edward Elston, left for St. Louis on Aug. 4th for the Great Lakes for
training in the U.S. Navy."
Oct. 28, 1965 - "SA Charles ELSTON left Friday for Pensacola,
Fla., after spending a 14 day leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward
ELSTON and family."
Feb. 10, 1966 - "To Participate in Mardi Gras Parade - "SA
Charles ELSTON, stationed in Pensacola, Fla., will participate in the Mardi Gras
Parade in New Orleans, La., the weekend of February 20th. The NCTC Drill
Team, of which he is a member, is one of two Drill Team entrys in the parade."
Dec. 8,
1966 -
"Charles,
son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Elston, has recently been advanced to CT3.
This advancement came about as a result of a fine record of performance, and
successfully passing a highly competitive and difficult examination. It is
a credit to his intelligence and perseverance that he was among those to pass
and be advanced. Charles is presently well on his way toward a successful
and rewarding career in the Navy. His fine efforts and achievements are a
direct reflection of the excellent guidance he has received both a home and
through his previous schooling."
Dec. 29, 1966 -
"Charles T. ELSTON left Tuesday for his base in Washington, D.C., after enjoying
a 12 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward ELSTON and family."
March 30, 1972 - "Mrs.
Marie ELSTON received a phone call from her son, Chuckie, on Thursday night.
He is stationed in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with the Navy, and was out on a TAD
trip, spending Thursday night in Baltimore, Maryland."
Robert Elston
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 3, 1966 – “Seaman Recruit Robert W. ELSTON, 20,
USN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Elston of Kinmundy, IL has completed 7 weeks of
Navy basic training at the Naval Training Center at Great Lakes, Ill. In
the first weeks of his naval service he studied military subjects and lived and
worked under conditions similar to those he will encounter on his first ship or
at his first shore station. In making the transition from civilian to
sailor, he was taught and supervised by experienced Navy petty officers.
He learned the basic skills of seamanship, as well as survival techniques,
military drill and other basic subjects. Upon
completion of his recruit training, he will was assigned to a school, shore
station or ship, according to results of his Navy classification tests, his own
desires, and the needs of the Navy.”
June 16, 1966 – “Fireman Apprentice Robert Wayne ELSTON,
son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Elston of Kinmundy, is attending the 14-week
Electrician’s Mate course at the Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill.”
Feb. 9, 1967 - "SER Robert W. ELSTON on USS Zellars in NATO
Matchmaker III Squadron's Trip" - "Mr. and Mrs. Edward ELSTON received a letter
from W.W. Erickson, Commander, U.S. Navy, stating that the Zellars became a unit
of the NATO Matchmaker III Squadron in a very impressive ceremony. The
Governor of Bermuda welcomed the Squadron and the Squadron Commander, Captain F.
Visee, Royal Netherlands, Navy officially took command........ SER Robert W.
ELSTON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward ELSTON, has been assigned to this ship and
will make this cruise. The ship left Newport, R.I., Jan. 17th."
Aug. 31, 1967 - "Mr. and Mrs. Joseph GARREPY of 46 Mowry Ave.,
Union Village North Smithfield, Rhode Island, announce the marriage of their
daughter, Lorraine Rose to E/3 Robert W. ELSTON, U.S. Navy, stationed at Newport
Naval Base, Newport, R.I., son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert ELSTON of this city.
Exchange of vows took place in Decatur at 4 p.m. Aug. 23rd by magistrate....."
Jan. 9, 1969 - "EM/3 and Mrs. Robert ELSTON returned to
Woondsocket, R.I. on Monday after spending a week with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Edward ELSTON and family."
(V-415) Robert W. Elston and
Charles T. Elston (sons of Edward & Marie Elston of
Kinmundy)
pictured with their maternal grandparents, William and Ella Whitt of Granite
City, IL
(V-53) Robert Elston
(son of Charles D. & Minnie Elston, and brother of Edward Elston)
Arthur
Erwin
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 11, 1951 - "Mrs. Arthur ERWIN, of Louisville, has moved in and
living with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ross SMITH, as her husband, Mr. ERWIN has
enlisted in the Navy."
Ollie
Eugene Eutsler
MSGT - U.S. Air Force; Korea & Vietnam
“The Kinmundy Express” -
May 7, 1970 -
“Mrs. Helen JEZEK has sold her residence property near where the C. & E.I. depot
once stood, to Mr. and Mrs. Ollie EUTSLER of Rantoul. Mr. EUTSLER is a Master
Sergeant in the Air Force and will be retiring in the fall. The family intends
to move into the property in July. Mr. JEZEK and two sons will soon leave for
Kingman, Kansas, where they will make their home.”
Apr. 22, 2004 - (From
the Betty Eutsler Woman of the Year article): "....On New Year's Eve of 1953
Betty met her future husband, Ollie EUTSLER. Betty and Ollie dated for 3
years and were married on July 4, 1956. Ollie was in the Air Force and
after they were married for 15 months, he was sent to Anchorage, Alaska where
they spent the next 3 years. ... During her marriage to Ollie, Betty lived
in Grand Forks, North Dakota; Blytheville, Ark.; Amarillo, Texas; Rantoul, IL
and Kinmundy, IL....."
Salem Times-Commoner - Nov. 11, 2008
Christopher
M. Evans
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 16, 1997 - "Marine Pvt. Christopher M. EVANS, son
of Donnie R. and Patricia A. EVANS of 204 Illinois St., Alma, Ill., recently
completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego. EVANS
successfully completed 11 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine
recruits both physically and mentally. EVANS and fellow recruits began
their training at 5 a.m., by running 3 miles and performing calisthenics.
In addition to the physical conditioning program, EVANS spent numerous hours in
classroom and field assignments, which included learning first aid, uniform
regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and
assorted weapons training. EVANS and fellow recruits worked as a team to
solve a number of tactical problems during the program. They performed
close order drill and operated as a Marine small infantry unit in the field.
Evans and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps' core
values - honor, courage, and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding
personal and professional conduct. Evans joins 41,000 men and women who
will enter the Marine Corps this year from all over the country."
July 3, 1997 - "On Six Month Deployment: Marine PFC Christopher
M. EVANS, son of Donnie R. and Patricia A. EVANS of Illinois Street, Alma, IL,
who recently departed on a 6 month deployment, is a member of the 22nd Marine
Expeditionary Unit (MEU0, which recently conducted non-combatant evacuation
operations in Sierra Leone. The U.S. European Command ordered the
evacuation of American citizens from Sierra Leone at the request of the State
Department. Since May 30, more than 2,500 have been evacuated. Citizens
from the U.S. and several foreign countries were transported to USS Kearsarge
for further transfer to a follow-on location. The evacuation was conducted
with French, Nigerian and Sierra Leonean surface ships on station and Marine and
Navy helicopters. Conduction air and well deck operation simultaneously, USS
Kearsarge also launched one Landing Craft Air Cushion with supporting security
forces from the 22nd MEU aboard to be utilized as necessary. The 1994
graduate of South Central High School of Farina, IL joined the Marine Corps in
May, 1996."
Nov. 6, 1997 – “Marine PFC Christopher M. EVANS, son of Donnie R. and
Patricia A. EVANS, of Illinois Street, alma, IL, has completed a 6-month
deployment with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embarked
aboard the ships of the USS Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). EVANS’ unit
deployed in April as part of the USS Kearsarge ARG, which includes the
amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge, the amphibious transport dock USS Ponce
and the dock landing ship USS Carter Hall. During the deployment, EVANS
participated in the evacuation of more than 2,500 American citizens from Sierra
Leone, conducted jointly with French, Nigerian and Sierra Leone surface
combatants. EVANS’ ship was also involved in several multi-national exercises
designed to challenge communications, increase task force and unit readiness,
and provide desert desert-like training for Marines. The deployment gave EVANS
the opportunity to visit Italy, and several ports in Spain, where he enjoyed the
diverse culture and exotic shopping. In additions, he was able to participate
in several community outreach projects in the host communities. EVANS’ unit is
an expeditionary intervention force with the ability to rapidly organize for
combat operations in virtually any environment. MEUs are composed of more than
2000 personnel and are divided into an infantry battalion, an aircraft squadron,
a support group and a command element. With the combination of these teams,
EVANS’ unit supplies and sustains itself for either quick mission accomplishment
or clearing the way for follow-on forces. The 1994 graduate of South Central
High School of Farina, IL, joined the Marine Corps in May 1996.”
Nov. 18, 1999 - "Marine Pfc. Derek R. SHREFFLER, son of John C.
and Cheri A. SHREFFLER of 516 E. Church, Salem, and Marine Cpl. Christopher M.
EVANS, son of Donnie R. and Patricia A. EVANS of 204 Illinois, Alma, are two of
more than 170,000 active duty Marines celebrating the Marine Corps' 224th
birthday this month. SHREFFLER and EVANS are currently on a six month
deployment to Okinawa with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines, home based at Camp
Lejuene, N.C. ..... SHREFFLER, 1998 graduate of Salem community high
school joined the Marine Corps in February, 1998. EVANS, joined the Marine
Corps in May 1996."
W. Ford
"Bill" Evans
“The
Kinmundy Express” – Sept. 26, 1996 - "(From his obituary): Born
Apr. 6, 1933 in Baylis, the son of John and Jana (FORD) EVANS. ......
he was a U.S. Army Vetern of the Korean War......"
Francis Marion Farris
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
Francis Marion FARRIS
Joe Feather
"The Kinmundy Express"
Aug. 9, 1945 - "Wm. COLE, Joe FEATHER, and Eli CONANT
left last Wednesday evening for Ft. Sheridan where they were inducted into the
armed forces."
Harold Feezel
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 26, 1968 -
"Killed in Vietnam: Harold FEEZEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. William FEEZEL, of
Loogootee, and a nephew of Mr. Dewey LACEY and Mrs. Herman SOLDNER of this city,
was killed in Vietnam on Saturday, Sept. 21st. Word was received here
Tuesday of his death. Arrangements are incomplete pending arrival of the body."
Ezra Feller
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Oct. 17, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Ezra FELLER
Feb. 27, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Ezra FELLER
S.A. Fellers
“Marion County
Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
June 20, 1918 - "Official notice was received Monday
by relatives here of the safe arrival over seas of Frank "Cooney" McGEE and S.E.
FELLERS."
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
S.A. FELLERS
Robert Fenton
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept.
7, 1944 - " Omega: Robert FENTON of the U.S. Navy is spending his leave
with his mother, Mrs. Julia HANKINS."
Noah
Jackson Ferrell
"The Kinmundy Express" -
June 15, 1944 - "The following from this community will leave soon for their
preinduction examination Noah Jackson FERRELL, Garrell Floyd JONES, Thomas Leroy
EDWARDS."
Carl T. Fields
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 23, 1942 - "In the Service: Carl T. FIELDS"
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Promoted: Mr. and Mrs. A.E. FIELDS
of Forrest, Ill. but formerly of Omega neighborhood, have received word that
their son, Carl T., was promoted to the rank of Sergeant last December. He is
serving with the Marines in the Southwest Pacific."
Harold W. Fields
"The
Kinmundy Express”
May 27, 1937 - "Omega: Harold FIELDS left for
Jefferson Barracks this week where he enlisted in the army."
Oct. 13, 1938 - "Omega: word has been received by
his parents that Harold FIELDS, who is in the U.S. Army at San Francisco has
been promoted to First Sergeant."
July 15, 1943 - "Omega: Harold FIELDS of the Coast
Guard, and wife and baby, are here on a furlough visiting his father, A.E.
FIELDS and family."
Apr. 1, 1943 - "Omega: Harold FIELDS of the Coast
Guard spent the week with home folks."
Jan. 11, 1945 - In the Service: Harold W. FIELDS"
Gary L. Finckbone
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 15, 1966 - "Pvt.
Gary L. FINCKBONE, Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., spent the weekend with his father,
Mr. Melvin FINCKBONE, Alma, and other relatives and friends."
March
30, 1967 -
Army
Private Gary L. Finckbone, 20, son of Melvin A. Finckbone of Alma, completed 9
weeks of advanced infantry training March 17 at Ft. Polk, La. His last week of
training was spent in guerrilla warfare exercises. During guerrilla
training, he lived under simulated Vietnam conditions for five days, fighting
off night attacks and conducting raids on "enemy" villages. He was taught
methods of removing booby traps, setting ambushes, and avoiding enemy ambushes.
Other specialized training included small unit tactics, map reading, land mine
warfare, communications, and firing the M-14 rifle, M-60 machine gun, and 3.5
inch rocket launcher."
May 11, 1967 – “Army Private First Class Gary L.
FINCKBONE, 20, son of Melvin A. Finckbone of Alma, was assigned to the 9th
Infantry Division in Vietnam, Apr. 16. Pvt. Finckbone, assigned to Company E, 2nd
Battalion of the division’s 47th Infantry, entered the Army in Oct.
1966 and completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He is a 1966
graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School. His wife, Linda Louise, lives in
Kinmundy.”
March 28, 1968 - "Gary FINCKBONE was wounded in Vietnam
recently. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jiggs FINCKBONE. His wife,
Linda, lives near Kinmundy."
Apr. 25, 1968 - "SP/4 and Mrs. Gary FINCKBONE are
spending this week with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth WILKINSON and Brenda,
before reporting for duty at Fort Hood, Texas, where he will be stationed for
the remainder of his time in the service. He just recently returned from a
years duty in Vietnam."
Thomas O.
Finley
“The
Kinmundy Express” – July 30, 1953 – “Army 1st Lt. Thomas O. FINLEY,
who’s wife, Hilary, lives in Alma, recently arrived for duty with U.S. Forces in
Austria. USFA with units stationed in nearly all sections of the country, is
part of the cooperative four-power Army of Occupation for Austria. Lt. FINLEY is assigned to the 4th Armored Cavalry
Reconnaissance Battalion at Linz. A 1950 graduate of the
Univ.
of Ill., he entered the Army in June of that year.”
Richard R. Fiscus
“The Kinmundy Express”
June
20, 1963 - "Miss Lorraine WILSON, daughter of Mrs. Daisy SIMMONS, of Kinmundy
and P.F.C. Richard R. FISCUS, son of Mrs. Dorothy FISCUS, of Vandalia, were
married Saturday, June 15 at 3 p.m. in the Calvery Missionary Baptis Church, of
Alma........The groom is presently serving in the U.S. Army and is stationed in
Fort Carson, Colo......"
Hubert "Hube" Fisher
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
June 20, 1918 - "Camp Dix Quoto Lands in France" -
"Relatives and friends of this city received notice of the safe arrival in
France of the boys, but one, who left here on April 29 for Camp Dix, N.J.
this is the quickest record made by any contigent in getting into foreign
service, but it was predicted at the time these boys left for a camp in the
eastern part of the country that they would soon be seeing service abroad.
Official government cards mailed in advance announcing the safe arrival of Hubert
M. FISHER, Melbourn JONES and Cecil BOUSEMAN were received Monday morning.
John WILSON who left here for Camp Dix with these boys, has not been moved but
is still at Camp Dix."
Aug. 8, 1918 - "Word
received from Hubert M. FISHER from “over there” says tell everybody hello and
that he was enjoying the best of health. He tells of frequent visits with Harry
RICHARDSON, son of Rev. W.D. RICHARDSON, former pastor of the M.E. Church of
this city."
May 29, 1919 - "More Boys Home: In a steady stream,
as rapidly as the transports can ply the ocean, our soldier boys are returning
to their homes and loved ones and among the recent arrivals have been quite a
number of our own boys. The most recent arrivals are: Luzon JOHNSON,
Clarence BARBEE, Clyde FOSTER, Hubert FISHER, Melbourn JONES, Cecil BOUSEMAN,
Francis ROGER, and Eugene BLACK - the two latter being from Patoka and Tonti
respectively. These boys had all seen considerable service on French Lonts
but seem to be little the worse for having passed through the great experience.
With their relatives and friends, the Express joins in extending to them welcome
and wishing for them success in future years Wm. GREEN also returned.
Click to read
Letters from Hubert Fisher to his future bride, Pearl Sexton (1917-1919)
Blake Fletcher
Served in U.S. Army for over 9 years until 2020.
Herbert
Leon “Sonny” Followell
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 2, 1953 - "A/3C Sonny FOLLOWELL, of Geneva,
New York, and Mrs. Mary Lou Bell, of Grand Prairie, Texas, are spending a few
days with their father, Mr. Percy FOLLOWELL while their mother is ill."
July 16, 1953 - "Ac/3 Sonny FOLLOWELL left Thursday for Geneva,
N.Y., after several days visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Percy FOLLOWELL."
Dec. 17, 1953 – “Airman Third Class Herbert L.
FOLLOWELL, 18, son of Mr. and Mrs. Percy FOLLOWELL, has recently been assigned
to Elgin Air Force Base, Florida, headquarters of the Air Proving Ground
Command. Airman Followell's previous assignment was at Sampson Air Force
Base, N.Y., where he received his indoctrination into the Air Force after his
enlistment in March, 1953."
Jan. 14, 1954 – “A/3C Sonny FOLLOWELL left Monday for
Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, having spent a furlough with his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Percy FOLLOWELL.”
Feb. 17, 1955 – “A3C Herbert L. “Sonny” FOLLOWELL, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Percy FOLLOWELL, and Miss Winnie KILLEREW, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Jack KILLEREW of Greenville, Miss., were married Jan. 21 in Greenville.
Airman FOLLOWELL received his education in the Kinmundy H.S. and is now serving
in the U.S. Air Force. The bride is a registered nurse receiving her high
school training in
Greenville,
Miss., and attending Nursing School in Laurel, Miss. The young couple are now
stationed at Elgin Air Force Base, Fla.”
May 12, 1955 – “A/2C and Mrs. Sonny FOLLOWELL left
Wednesday morning for Elgin Air Force Base, Fla., after a weeks visit here with
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Percy FOLLOWELL."
(V-68) Melvin Foltz
"The Kinmundy Express"
March 16, 1989 - (From his obituary): Mr. FOLTZ was
born Oct. 4, 1910 the son of Harry and Ida MULVANEY FOLTZ. He was a
retired labor and was a veteran of World War II."
Louis
Fontana
“The
Kinmundy Express” – June 23, 1966 - "Mrs. Bessie PHILLIPS received word that her
nephew, Louis FONTANA has arrived home from Viet Nam, to attend funeral services
for his mother in California."
(V-172) Brian W. Ford
(V-4) John S. Ford (1918)
(V-170) John W. Ford
"The Kinmundy Express" - Apr. 7, 1955
- "Callers during the week on Mrs. Mary HARRELL were ......Mr. and Mrs. John
FORD and Janet, and son, Johnnie, of Fort Bragg, North Carolina."
Kenneth E.
Ford
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 18, 1956 – “Pvt. Kenneth FORD of Fort Knox, Ky, returned Friday
after spending the past two weeks with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. George FORD and
family."
Dec. 13, 1956 – “Army Pvt. Kenneth E. FORD, son of Mr. and
Mrs. George E.
FORD, Kinmundy, recently graduated from the
automotive maintenance helpers course at Army’s Armor Training Center.,
Ft. Knox,
Ky. The 8 week course included classes in engine electricity,
transmissions, brakes, steering and suspension systems and recovery of disabled
vehicles. FORD entered the Army last July and completed basic training at
the fort. The 19 year old soldier is a 1956 graduate of
Kinmundy
Alma High School.”
Jan.
24, 1957 – “Pvt. Kenneth FORD, son of Mr. and Mrs. George FORD, is a patient
in the base hospital at Fort George, Meade, Maryland, since Jan. 1st, suffering
from a broken knee. He expects to be in the hospital for some time and
anyone wishing to send him a card, here is his address...."
Jan.
31, 1957 – “Pvt. Kenneth FORD returned home Thursday from the base Hospital
at Fort George, Meade, Maryland, for a 30 day leave. His knee and leg is
in a cast but he is able to get around with the aid of crutches."
Feb.
21, 1957 – “Pvt. Kenneth E. FORD left Tuesday morning for Fort George,
Meade, Md., after spending a 30 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. George
FORD and family."
Patricia M. Fortman
“The Kinmundy Express”
- Apr. 9, 1998 – “Marine PFC Patricia M. FORTMAN, daughter of Gerald T.
FORTMAN of Kinmundy recently was promoted to her present rank while serving with
Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Training Squadron 253, Marine Aircraft Group
14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point,
North Carolina. FORTMAN was promoted based on sustained superior job
performance and proficiency in her designated specialty. The 1997 graduate of
South Central High School of Farina, IL, joined the Marine Corps in Aug. 1997.”
Clyde Foster
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1918 - Boys in the Service: In France -
Clyde Foster
May 29, 1919 - "More Boys Home: In a steady stream,
as rapidly as the transports can ply the ocean, our soldier boys are returning
to their homes and loved ones and among the recent arrivals have been quite a
number of our own boys. The most recent arrivals are: Luzon JOHNSON,
Clarence BARBEE, Clyde FOSTER, Hubert FISHER, Melbourn JONES, Cecil BOUSEMAN,
Francis ROGER, and Eugene BLACK - the two latter being from Patoka and Tonti
respectively. These boys had all seen considerable service on French Lonts
but seem to be little the worse for having passed through the great experience.
With their relatives and friends, the Express joins in extending to them welcome
and wishing for them success in future years Wm. GREEN also returned."
(V-173) Philip H. Frakes - 1952 in
Korea (Heart Break Ridge is behind him)
"Philip H.
Frakes - Military Life (overview):
My
military life started during World War II while I was in High School. Since I
was too young to join the active military service, I joined the Home Guard in
Salem, Illinois. I was a junior in high school. They disbanded in 1946, after
the war was over. In April of 1947 they reorganized the Illinois National
Guard. I joined at that time as a private. I rose in rank of Tech Sergeant or
Sergeant First Class. I was appointed 2nd Lieutenant after completing military
10 series for a Commissioned Officer February 1, 1952. Our National Guard
Division was called into Active Service on February 15, 1952. We reported to
Camp Cook, California on that date. It was close to Lompac, California. I was
assigned to Company C of the 130th Infantry Reg. I trained there until I went to
Fort Benning, Georgia for officer training school in June 1952 thru October 4,
1952.
I received
my orders for overseas assignment in the last of July 1952 to the far East
Command. I, however, didn't leave the States until November 30 from Camp
Stoneman, California. I went back to Camp Cook after I got married to Monna
CONANT in October of 1952. She went with me. We only stayed a short time when
they gave me thirty day leave before I went overseas. At Camp Stoneman I met my
fellow officers from Company C, who received their orders too. We left Camp
Stoneman two days later on a airplane flight to Japan. We stopped over at Hawaii
for a day and half because of bad weather. Then we proceeded to Tokyo, Japan. We
then were assigned to a CBR school at Camp Gifu, Japan for three weeks. We spent
Christmas there. We then went to Kyoto, Japan to catch a ship to Pusan, Korea.
We took a train to Seoul, Korea from assignment of our Unit. We were assigned to
the 45th Infantry Division. We spent New Years in Seoul. When we got to the 45th
Division, they assigned us to our units. I went to the 180th Regiment, Company
C. The other fellow officers, Charles FERRELL went to the 179th Regiment
Headquarters supply and Dwayne LOWERY went to the 279th Regiment, Heavy Weapons
Company. I suppose they wanted to separate us since we came from the same
company back in the states. My unit was in reserve when I joined them. While in
reserved we had an operation of our battalion to raid a US supply depot. It was
told us that the supplies at the depot was being sold to other parties outside
of the U.S. Troops. Some of our military men were involved in stealing equipment
and supplies. It was a cold and snowy night when we headed out on our mission.
It took about eight hours to get there and we had to walk across rough terrain
to get to the rear of the depot, where they were staling the equipment. We had
the depot surrounded and they couldn't get through. I only heard one shot fired
and no one got hurt, that I was aware of. I know one thing, I was sure tired
walking in the rugged hills (or small mountains).
We were
called in to take over the territory that was held by the 40th Infantry Division
on the 30th of January, 1953. The next day the G2 asked that our company send
out a combat patrol to find out exactly where the enemy was located. Since I was
the only commissioned officer outside of the Company Commander, I volunteered to
take out the patrol. It was a cold night and there was snow on the ground. We
were in mountain terrain. I had a reinforced squad with three BARs for
firepower. When we left our DMZ, we went to the next ridge where our outpost was
set and continued to the next ridge. By that time, we got down in the valley. We
were engaged in a firefight. The whole side of the mountain (or hill) lit up
like a Christmas tree with gun flashes. We returned our fire but were pinned
down. I adjusted artillery fire on the enemy and the enemy pinned their ears
down. We then pulled back and went back up the ridge we had just come over. I
sent my troops back to friendly lines, while I stayed at my position and
continued to adjust artillery fire on the enemy. They were following us up the
hill until the artillery adjusted to fire for effect. At that time the artillery
barrage was so intense that the enemy was repulsed. I stayed at my position and
continued to adjust fire for the artillery until a shell landed close to me and
a piece of shrapnel cut the telephone I was holding, resulting in the loss of
communication. Then my radio man and me left my position and headed back to our
lines. Later I was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor for this action. I was also
promoted to 1st Lieut.
Later
replacements started coming in and I was sent back to the rear to be an
instructor and CO of the leadership company, which was for new non-commissioned
officers. They called it the School of Standards. The new non-coms were there
for three weeks and then sent back to their units. I stayed there until the war
was over on July 26, 1953. I actually didn't rotate back to the States until
September. I left SOS by truck to Seoul from Chinchon. There we loaded onto a
train to Pusan, where we took a physical, then boarding a ship called the Marine
Serpent, a troop ship. The ship went through the straights of Japan and up to
the Alution Islands, then to Seattle, Washington. It took only eleven days and
it was a very good trip. The best food I had had since I left the states. We got
into port at 8:30 A.M. and was processed at the port. We then got onto a good
train and traveled to Camp Carson, near Colorado Springs, Colorado. We got there
on a Friday and we couldn't get all processed until Monday. We had to take
another physical and they gave us what money we had coming and a train ticket to
St. Louis, Missouri. We were separated from active service on the 23rd of
September, 1953.
I met Jim
Kendrick when we got on the train. Jim was in the 40th Infantry Division in
Korea. We were classmates in high school We talked all the way back to St. Louis
about where we went and where we were located. Our wives met us there at the
station. It was a very glorious occasion too. Then we headed back home to Salem,
Illinois. AMEN!"
(V-174) Philip H. Frakes with grandson,
Nathan Courtright
William Donald Frala
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 30, 1953 - "Miss Patricia Ann DOOLEN, eldest
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Earl W. DOOLEN, of this city, became the bride of
Airman 3/c William Donald FRALA, U.S.A.F. at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 23 in the
First Methodist Church of Laramie, with Rev. G.T. Hawes performing the single
ring ceremony..... The groom is a graduate of Salem Community High School, Class
of '52, and attended the Univ. of Ill. until he enlisted in the Air Force.
The couple took a short honeymoon trip to Rock Springs, Wyo., and later returned
to Francis E. Warren A.F.B. where he will be stationed for further trining in
Teletype Repair School......"
John French
"The Marion County Express" - Kinmundy, IL
March 21, 1918 - "The many friends of John FRENCH and Raymond
MAHAN, who are in training at Camp Taylor, will be glad to know that each have
been made Corporal."
July 18, 1918 - "Mrs. Eli ROBB and daughter, Veda, and Miss
Margaret FRENCH went to Camp Sherman, Ohio, Friday to visit with the former's
husband and the latter's brother."
Dec. 5, 1918 - "A letter from John FRENCH to his father, C.B.
FRENCH, stated that he was in the hospital with a shrapnel wound in the hip.
He just recently went over with the 84th Division, of which a large number of
Kinmundy boys are members. Soon after his arrival he was transferred to
the 26th Infantry, 1st Division, and sent to the front. He went
"over the top" early in the morning of Nov. 7th, and the letter was written on
the 9th, so it is presumed that he was wounded on his first trip "over the top".
According to the letter, this was the last battle before the signing of the
armistice. His friends join with his family in wishing for him a speedy
recovery."
Sept. 26, 1918 - "Word was received by relatives
here last week of the safe arrival overseas of John FRENCH, Chester CLINE, Ray
HAMILTON, and Forrest SEE."
John French
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 19, 1945 – “John FRENCH left here Monday afternoon with the full
expectation of going to New York to enlist in the
Maritime Service and becoming a cook on ship. He want to explore the Caribbean
and Mediteranian Seas. He expects to be back in Kinmundy in the latter part of
the week.”
July 26, 1945 – “John FRENCH returned home Friday evening. He didn’t take his
expected cruise. However, he did cruise on Lake Michigan far enough to read the
original sign “Schlitz, the Beer that made Milwaukee famous”. That was enough.
He turned around and came home.”
Kenneth L. Fulfer
"The
Kinmundy Express”
March 4, 1943 - "In the Service: Kenneth L. FULFER"
Jan. 4, 1945 - "In the Service: Kenneth L. FULFER"
Robert Fulfer
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 12, 1945 – “Omega: A farewell supper was given Robert FULFER Sunday night
at the Wagner garage. A large crowd attended and enjoyed the eats and also the
music given by the Brown Quartet. He left for service in Army, Tuesday.”
Nov. 29, 1945 - "Omega: Robert FULFER of the Army, is home
on furlough and is visiting here and in Siloam school district."
Alma WWII soldier. Three stars hang in the window
of his home, which meant the parents had three sons who were in the service
during WWII.
(This is possibly Andrew Gammon, as it resembles him and he
had 2 brothers in the service at the same time.)
Andrew W. Gammon
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 20, 1944 - "In the Service: Andrew W. GAMMON"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Andrew W. GAMMON"
(V-70) C. Frederick "Fred" Gammon
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 5, 1943 - "Mr. Fred GAMMON and Mr. Herschel
BRIM went to Chicago Monday evening to be inducted into the armed forces.
Herschel was rejected on account of an injured knee while Fred was accepted. So
here after, Fred will be known as Pvt. Charles F. GAMMON."
Aug. 26, 1943 - "Party
given for Fred GAMMON: The high school boys and girls of this vicinity attended
a party for Fred GAMMON, their school bus driver, Sunday evening at Fred’s
home. Plenty to eat was planned by them, and Fred was presented with a nice
gift. Fred leaves this week for camp. The boys and girls are very sorry to
lose Fred as their driver."
Sept. 27, 1943 - "PFC
Fred GAMMON, who is enjoying a convalescent furlough here with his wife and
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON. Fred is a patient in the Schick General
Hospital, Clinton, Iowa, being treated for sciatica."
Feb.
24, 1944 - "Mrs. Fred GAMMON moved their furniture from the V.V.
BARCROFT property into the Chas. GAMMON home where she will reside for the
duration or at least while Fred is away."
March
9, 1944 - "PFC Fred GAMMON of Arkansas, enjoyed a weekend pass here with
relatives."
April 3, 1944 -
"Mrs. Irene GAMMON has returned home from a few days visit in Little Rock, Ark.
with her husband, Fred GAMMON."
April 13, 1944 -
"Here’s one from Clifton LEMAY, who is down in Arkansas. He says: I am
writing you to let you know how much I appreciate the paper you are sending me.
I look forward to getting it, and it sure makes one seem right at home when he
can read the news of his own hometown. I am very fortunate having a good
commanding officer, Capt. Leo E. DONOVAN. I happened to work under Captain
DONOVAN where he was working on the Illinois Central R.R. I had a surprise
Sunday when Fred GAMMON came over to spend the afternoon with me. Well, Norris,
I guess I will have to close as it is getting late. I want to thank you again
for the paper and the trouble you have to go through with to make it possible
for us boys and girls in the service to get the paper."
Apr. 13, 1944 -
"Pvt. Fred GAMMON of Arkansas is home on furlough."
Dec. 7, 1944 - From J.N. Vallow's ZATSO column: "And that
reminds me of another incident I hear of just this evening. Charley GAMMON
was telling me that they had a letter from his son, Charles Frederick, who we
all know as just plain "Fat", stating that Beryl DISS had been to see him.
These boys are in Italy. From the way I got it, Fat was in the kitchen
(he's the cook), and Beryl just walked in on him, knowing that he was there,
however. Don't you bet there was some hutting on right in broad daylight
there?"
Sept. 20, 1945 – “PFC Fred GAMMON arrived here Tuesday morning for a 15 day
visit with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON. Fred is a patient
in the Schick General Hospital, Clinton, Iowa, where he is being
treated for sciatica. PFC Fred entered the service Aug. 3, 1943 and shipped
overseas June 30, 1944, landing in Italy. From there he went to Southern France
and then to Germany with the 7th Army. He sailed for home Aug. 3, landing in
New York Aug. 14th. He was then sent to the
Schick General Hospital. PFC
GAMMON wears the Good Conduct Medal, and the European Theater of Operation
Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the Rome-Arno,
Southern France, Rhineland, and Central European Campaigns. Fred looks mighty good and we know he
is glad to be home again, even though it is only on a convalescent furlough. He
will have to report back to his hospital as soon as his furlough has expired.”
Denny Gammon
“The Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 22, 1968 - "Denny GAMMON who has been with the
U.S. Service for 2 years, is spending a 50 day furlough with his father, Mr. and
Mrs. Denzil GAMMON and family and other relatives. He will then go to Viet
Nam. Mr. and Mrs. GAMMON, Tracy and Denny will leave this week to visit
Mr. and Mrs. Robert GAMMON and family in Maitland, Fla., and on to visit Mr. and
Mrs. Stanford BROOM."
Apr. 10, 1969 - "Denny GAMMON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Denzil GAMMON returned here
last week after spending a year in Korea."
Frederick Gammon
“The Kinmundy Express” – Sept. 29, 1966 – “Frederick D. GAMMON, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Charles F. Gammon, Kinmundy, completed his training at Officers Training
School, Marine Corps Schools, Quantico, Va., where he has been undergoing his
first 6 weeks of training as a member of the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class
Program. The program which is designed especially for college students leads to a
commission as a second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserve upon completion of
2 such training periods at
Quantico.
Prior to his college graduation, he will return to Quantico for six more weeks
of summer training. Upon receipt of his degree, he will be eligible for
commissioning, and once again return to Quantico for a 21-week Basic Officer
Course prior to his assignment to one of the many posts and stations the Marine
Corps maintains both a home and abroad.”
Larry J. Gammon
"Aouthern Illinoisan" - May 25, 1971
Ira "Ike" Gammon
Harry L. Gammon
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 20, 1944 - "In the Service: Harry L. GAMMON"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Harry L. GAMMON"
(V-71) O. Rex Gammon
"The
Kinmundy Express"
March 12, 1942 – “Mr. Rex GAMMON of Mississippi arrived home Wednesday
morning to be inducted into the service soon.”
Dec. 24, 1942 - "Rex
GAMMON has enjoyed a visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON this
week."
July 8, 1943 – “Sgt. Rex GAMMON of Florida arrived here yesterday to
visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON, and his brother, Fred and wife.”
Jan. 27, 1944 - S./Sgt. Rex GAMMON of Florida, is spending the week here
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles GAMMON and friends.
May 18, 1944 - In India – “Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON have received word
from their son, T/Sgt. Rex GAMMON stating that he is now in India.”
Sept. 21, 1944 - "Here’s a nice letter from T. Sgt. Rex
GAMMON, who is stationed in India. He is making an extensive study of the lives
of these people as can be seen in the interesting letter which follows: Salam
Sahib: In case you haven’t received a letter bearing a similar salutation, it’s
translation is, "Peace be unto you, sir!" Or simply, "Good day, sir!" Anyway
it’s meaning is the equivalent of "Dear J.N." even though Columbus was wrong and
it isn’t from 1 Indian to another Indian. When one starts to write of life in
India, he hardly knows where to start and once started it is difficult to find a
place to stop. Naturally your interests are going to lie in the direction of
politics and the press, so to the best of my ability and within the limits of
military restriction and censorship, I’ll try to concentrate on those 2
subjects. Variety is the one word which describes most accurately everything in
India, regardless of what the topic of discussion may be - the one exception to
this is possibly the weather. This exception can be simply described as "too
hot", "too cold", "too wet", and "too dry". I have been subjected to the "too
hot" and "too wet" seasons and can’t think of a better way to describe them. The
variety of customs, languages, and political institutions is based on the many
religions observed. Most of the religions are strange and fascinating to an
American, due to their contrast to Christianity. The majority of Indian
population follows the God Bramna, creator of everything in the world. They are
known as Hindus. Every Hindu is born into the caste system from which it is
difficult to rise. One must live, work and marry within the limits of his caste.
Second to the Hindus are the Mohammedans, a little closer to our own religious
observances. They pray 5 times a day, facing the direction of the Mecca, their
Holy City. "Allah is Allah, there is no God but Allah, and Mohammed is his
prophet." Fewer in number but worthy of mention are the Sikhs, Gurkhas and
Parrsies. The Sikhs follow ten teachers known as Gurus. They make very good
soldiers. One needs on a moment’s glance to realize a Sikh, with his long hat
and beard, would be a tough customer if aroused. The Gurkhas are Hindus, but
differ from the main classification in that they, too, are fighters. The Hindu,
who believe in reincarnation, naturally does not kill anything which possess
life. The Gurkhas make up a large percentage of the Indian Army. The Parsies
follow, Zoraster as their prophet. They dispose of their dead by place them in
towers, where they are devoured by vultures. Perhaps you are wondering what all
this has to do with politics? The political parties are based on these different
religious beliefs. Every Indian, every political organization has Indian
Independence foremost in mind. The National Congress based on the Hindu trend of
though, is the leading party, sine the Hindus out number the others. Ghandi is
their leader - he needs no introduction. The Muslim League, the Mohammedan
party, is championed by Mr. Zinnah. The Sikhs have their own party but are too
few in number. There are also a couple of minor parties. The trouble arises that
in case of independence, none of these parties want to leave with the others.
The present plan, under much discussion and arousing world wide attention is
Pakistan. This plan would give the National Congress political control where the
Hindus are in majority - the Muslim League control where the Mohammedan
predominate. Some one evidently forgot to think about the Sikhs. The Indian
Press is divided among the different parties. News reports are usually poorly
written and a proof reader has surely never been heard of, as the errors in the
papers are numerous and often misleading. Censorship regulations are less rigid
than in the United States - editorials are often very frank. I’ve read articles
the American editor wouldn’t dare to print. Wesbrook Pegler could really go to
town in the Indian Press. I’ve just started receiving the Express again and I’ll
certainly be glad when I can once again get back on good American soil.
Incidentally, I have not run across who doesn’t share that same opinion. I wish
to thank you for the paper - though the news is a little late - it is still news
- 12,000 miles away from the old hometown. Everyone seems to share the opinion
that the termination of the war will once again restore him to civilian life,
where he can practice a little individualism. The Army days will be pleasant
when one recalls acquaintances made. I’ve made many friends, which otherwise
would never have been made. I’ve a little story to tell of one of them. Similar
stories appear in "Time" and "Newsweek". This one is worthy of being printed
though it may never see the ink. In February I walked in the same barracks and
on the bunk next to mine was a Master Sergeant - I noticed his shipping code was
the same as mine. Within a few days I knew a lot about E. FOX (M. Sgt.) And I
learned to respect him for his individualism. He had been in the Army, since the
mobilization of the National Guard, but he was still a civilian at heart. FOX
wasn’t a G.I. Joe as we term anyone, who sticks to the letter and goes by the
book alone. He had walked out of O.C.I. with only a day between him and the gold
bars. FOX and I lived and worked together until a few weeks ago. When FOX left
he was still the same boy who walked away from the gold bars - he liked to be an
individual. He had been condemned several times because he liked to use his
resourcefulness. We’ve just gotten a report came that FOX had recently foiled
the Japs and saved the lives of several officers and men. The report also says
he has been given the Silver Star. He’s the kind of a guy who would put it away
in his barracks bag and forget where he put it. Given everyone my best regards,
and thanks again for the paper. "
May 3, 1945 - "Meet in India: Sgt. Rex
GAMMON and T3 Xon ALEXANDER are both stationed in India. After receiving
one another's address from homefolks, they looked each other up and found that
they were stationed only eight miles apart. Now their ball teams are
playing each other. We can just imagine these are happy occasions for Rex
and Xon."
Feb. 14, 1946 - "Sgt. Rex GAMMON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas.
GAMMON, arrived home Feb. 9th after receiving his discharge at Jefferson
Barracks the same day. Rex entered the service March 26, 1942, and shipped
overseas March 6, 1944, landing in Casablanca. From there he went to Oran and
then to Bombay, Calcutta, Chabua and Ledo, India. He started homeward Nov. 3 via
rail to Karachi, where he waited for a month for a boat. He left there Dec. 30
and landed in Seattle Jan. 30. Sgt. GAMMON was a radar repairman of the Signal
Corps and worked radar and radio. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, the
Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, and the Victory Ribbon.
After resting for about a month or so, Rex intends to go back to his former
position with the Sun Oil Co. of Beaumont, Texas."
Feb. 21, 1946 –“A picture was printed of Sgt. Rex GAMMON, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Chas. GAMMON, who arrived home Feb. 9, from India, where he spent almost 2
years.”
Charles "Chuck" Garden
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 16, 1948 – “In the Army” – “Joe BARGH, Floyd GARRETT, Chuck GARDEN,
Bob BAILEY, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS, of Alma, left Friday for Ft. Knox, Ky. PFC
Jack HOYT and PFC Vernon JEZEK will report to Chanute Field at Rantoul, Ill.,
Wednesday.”
Dec. 30, 1948 – “Joe BARGH, of Ft. Dix, N.J., Floyd GARRETT, Chuck
GARDEN, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS stationed at Fort Devens, Mass., spent Christmas
with home folks.”
Jan. 8, 1949 - “Pvt. Charles GARDEN has returned to Fort Devens, Mass.,
after spending a few days here with his mother, Mrs. Thelma GARDEN.”
March 17, 1949 – “PFC Charles GARDEN of Fort Devens, Mass., is spending a
6 day furlough here with his mother, Mrs. Thelma GARDEN.”
Aug. 18, 1949 – “Charles GARDEN of Fort Devens, Mass, is spending a few
days here with his mother, Mrs. Lloyd BAILEY.”
Dec. 22, 1949 - "Chuck GARDEN and
Bobby Dan WILLIAMS of Ft. Devens, Mass., are spending Christmas leave with their
families here and in Alma."
Dec. 29, 1949 – “Cpl. Charles GARDEN of Ft. Devens, Mass., and John
GARDEN, student at the Univ. of Ill., are spending the holidays here with their
mother, Mrs. Lloyd BAILEY and family.”
Aug. 3, 1950 – “Cpl. Chuck GARDEN returned Saturday to Ft. Devens, Mass.,
after spending some time here with his family. His mother, Mrs. Lloyd BAILEY,
accompanied him to Mattoon.”
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. these can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F. MOTCH
- Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M. Co,
Camp Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F. HOYT
- 545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd
Infantry Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc.
Paul WEST - U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T.
Sgt. Marion M. HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord.
MAM Co.; Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
July 26, 1951 – “Sgt. Charles GARDEN, who has spent the
past 8 months in Korea after a two month sojourn in Japan, arrived home Monday
where he will enjoy a 30-day furlough.”
Sept. 20, 1951 -"Joe Jimelow of Springfield, Mass.
spent the weekend here with, the guest of Chuck GARDEN. They were buddies
in Korea."
Dick Garden
“The Kinmundy Express”
Sept. 3, 1953 – “Pvt. and Mrs. Dick GARDEN of Ft. Knox,
Ky are spending a few days with his mother, Mrs. Lloyd BAILEY before reporting
for duty in
Europe.
He will leave Sept. 7.”
Sept. 10, 1953 - "Pvt. Dick GARDEN left Monday for New Jersey
where he will report for overseas duty."
March 31, 1955 – “Receives Discharge”: “Mr. Dick GARDEN received his
discharge from the Armed Forces Monday, March 28. He served approximately 18
months in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. GARDEN will make their home in Salem.”
Merle Gardener
"The
Kinmundy Express”
July 15, 1943 - "In the Service: Merle GARDENER"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Merle GARDENER"
(V-187a) Dwight W. Garner
“The Kinmundy Express”:
July 4, 1940 - "James HAMMER and Dwight GARNER will leave next
Monday for their final examination in St. Louis and in all probability will
leave the next day for Chicago."
June 5, 1941 -
"Home on Furlough: Seaman Dwight GARNER, who has been stationed in the Hawaiian
Islands for the past few months, arrived in San Diego last week and came home on
furlough to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER. "Mutt", as he is
familliarly known to his friends, is looking fine and says he sure likes navy
life."
Jan 28, 1943 – “Dwight GARNER left Wednesday afternoon for his ship on
the coast.”
Apr. 1, 1943 - "Dwight
GARNER, son of Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER has been promoted from Seaman 2nd Class
to Seaman 1st Class. Dwight has been transferred to a hospital ship where
he will undergo a tonsillectomy."
Oct. 5, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. Ruben GARNER have
received word from their son, Dwight, stating that he had been promoted to Water
Tenderman, 1 c. He is stationed on a new destroyer, somewhere in the South
Pacific.
Nov. 2, 1944 - "Badly Burned: Mr. and Mrs. R.C.
GARNER have received word from their son, Dwight, that he was severely burned on
Sept. 29th. Dwight is in the Pacific and is a Water Tender First Class.
By a mistake, boiling steam was turned on him. He received third degree
burns from his knees down and second degree on his chest, arms and face.
He has been transferred from his ship on to a hospital ship. All of
Dwight's friends hope he will soon be able to walk."
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER received a
telegram from their son, Dwight GARNER, WT1/c, of the U.S.N., stating that he
had arrived in San Francisco and would be sent out of there to some hospital.
It will be remembered that Dwight was severely burned by steam while on his ship
and for the past several months has been in a naval hospital in Honolulu.
We know that Dwight is glad to get back in the states and we also know that his
parents and friends are mighty glad to hear this news."
March 1, 1945 - "Dwight GARNER, WT 1/c Home - Dwight
GARNER, Water Tender First Class, arrived here Saturday evening to spend his 30
day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER and daughter, Coralee.
Needless to say that he was glad to get home as well as the parents were glad
for him to get home. Dwight is decked with badges denoting his foreign
service, and representing the following: Four Years Good Conduct, Philippine
Campaign, American Theater, National Defense with one star representing Pearl
Harbor, and the Asiatic-Pacific ribbon with three stars representing the battles
of Midway, Coral Sea and the Philippines. Dwight joined the United States
Navy on July 8, 1940, and after completing his boot training at Great Lakes, he
was assigned to the USS Barze, and later to the USS Dorsey. About a year
ago, he was sent to and engineering school in in Philadelphia. After completing
his course there, he was assigned to the USS Prickett. On Sept. 29, 1944,
while on this ship, he was accidently scalded with steam from a safety valve,
severely burning both lower legs and left hand. On Sept. 30, he was
transferred to the USS Lexington, where he was hospitalized until Nov. 8, when
he was placed in a hospital in Honolulu. He landed in San Francisco on
Feb. 5 and sent to the hospital at Farragut, Idaho, where he remained 4 days
before being sent on leave. Dwight will report back to Farragut as soon as
his leave is up. There he will either be assigned to shore duty or will be
given a medical discharge as the burns has left him in such a shape that he is
unfit for sea-duty. We are might glad to see you back, Dwight, and
sincerely hope that you will enjoy every minute of your stay with us."
March 8, 1945 – “School Notes: - “A dance was held in honor of the
service boys now home on leave, last Wednesday night. The sailors who were
there were: Calvin BARBEE, Junior GARRETT, John MIDDLETON, Lyle SWIFT, and
Dwight GARNER. Yes the fleet was in.”
Aug. 23, 1945 – “Dwight GARNER, Water Tender First Class, arrived here Thursday
after receiving his discharge from the U.S. Navy on Tuesday previous. He is the
son of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben GARNER. Dwight entered the Navy on July 8, 1940, and
after completing his boot training at Great Lakes, he was assigned to the USS
Brazo and later to the USS Dorsey. His last ship was the USS Prickett. On
Sept. 29, 1941, while on this ship, he was scalded from steam from a safety
valve, severally burning both lower legs and left hand. After spending some
time in the hospital in Honolulu, he was sent back to the states on Feb. 5. He
was permitted to spend a 30 day leave here with his parents last February.
After his leave had expired, he reported back to duty at Farragut, Idaho, and was then sent to
Crane, Ind. where he has been since. He wears the 4 years Good Conduct Ribbon,
the Philippine Ribbon, American Theater, and National Defense with 1 star,
representing Pearl Harbor, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars
representing the battles of Midway, Coral Sea and the Philippines.”
(V-369) Berthol "Junior" "B.J." Garrett
"The Kinmundy Express"
Dec. 14, 1944 -
"Junior GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert
GARRETT, left Friday for the Navy. Mr. and Mrs. GARRETT have 3 sons in the
service."
Dec. 28, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT
entertained their children and grandchildren to dinner Christmas Day, except
their two sons, Cpl. Charles of New Guinea and A/S Junior of Great Lakes, and
Mrs. Carl HEADLEY and children of Lansing, Mich."
Feb. 15, 1945 - "Mrs. Norma SHREFFLER and Miss
Frances BAILEY spent the weekend in Kankakee with Miss Juanita BAILEY and in
Chicago with Junior GARRETT who is stationed at Great Lakes Naval Training
Station."
Feb. 22, 1945 - "Junior Garrett,
S2c, arrived here yesterday evening to spend a 9 day leave with his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. B.O. Garrett and family. Junior has just completed his boot
training at the Great Lakes Naval Station."
March 1, 1945- "Junior GARRETT, S2/c and Calvin
BARBEE, S2/c, of Great Lakes, and Lyle SWIFT, EM3/c, of Washington, D.C., are
here visiting with home folks."
March 8, 1945 – “School Notes: - “A dance was held in honor of the
service boys now home on leave, last Wednesday night. The sailors who were
there were: Calvin BARBEE, Junior GARRETT, John MIDDLETON, Lyle SWIFT, and
Dwight GARNER. Yes the fleet was in.”
April
5, 1945 - "Junior GARRETT, S2 c, of Indianapolis, Ind. spent the
Easter weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT."
April 25, 1945 - "Junior GARRETT of Indianapolis, is
confined to the Naval Hospital, a victim of the mumps. Wanda, the GARRETT’s
youngest daughter, is at home nursing a case of the mumps."
July 12, 1945 – “Junior GARRETT S2c of Indianapolis, Ind. spent the weekend here
with his parents, B.O. GARRETT and family.
Aug. 22, 1946 - "Junior GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Bert GARRETT, arrived home Monday night after being discharged from the Navy in
Seattle, Wash., last week."
(V-22) Garrett brothers: Bill Garrett, Carroll Garrett, B.J.
"Junior" Garrett, and Floyd Garrett
(V-384)
Charles William "Bill" Garrett
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 15, 1942 - "Boys Leave for Camp: Carl and Roy DOOLEN,
Bill GARRETT, Marvin BASSETT, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Willard WILEY, and Merle
SCHNEIDER, left Tuesday night for camp. D.A. ARNOLD, who was released a
few weeks ago on account of being over 28, was recalled and left Sunday night.
Arthur BOYD, Charles KLINE, Paul WRIGHT and Louie Soutier are in St. Louis today
where they are receiving their final physical examinations."
Jan. 20, 1944 -"Here’s one from Cpl. Chas. GARRETT, written
Jan. 2, in New Guinea. He says: Just finished reading the Kinmundy paper, so
thought I would drop you a line to let you know that I sure appreciate getting
it. Sometimes it takes quite awhile for it to reach me, but it is still news
from home to me and I certainly enjoy reading it. I don’t stay in one place very
long so I can’t expect to get it all the time. I have never seen anyone that I
knew back there. Lawrence BASSETT and I were at the same place for awhile, but I
was moved up before I had a chance to see him. Everyone back there seem to be
doing a swell job of putting out supplies for the armed forces and I think that
before long the Nips are going to wish they had never heard of Pearl Harbor.
Thanks again for the paper and I hope that it won’t be too long before I see the
old home town again. "
Dec. 28, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT
entertained their children and grandchildren to dinner Christmas Day, except
their two sons, Cpl. Charles of New Guinea and A/S Junior of Great Lakes, and
Mrs. Carl HEADLEY and children of Lansing, Mich."
May 10, 1945 - "Cpl. Charles W. GARRETT, who has
spent 3 years overseas, arrived here last night to visit his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Bert GARRETT and family."
May 17, 1945 - "Cpl. Charles W. GARRETT better known to his
many friends as "Bill" arrived here on Wednesday of last week for a visit with
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT. He was shipped back to the states on
"Temporary Duty" and will enjoy 45 days at home. This is Cpl. GARRETT’s first
trip home since he was inducted in the service on Jan. 13, 1942. He received his
basic training at Fort Bliss, Texas, and was shipped overseas in May 1942,
landing in Australia. From there he went to New Guinea on Aug. 17, 1942, where
he remained until he started homeward. He left New Guinea on March 31st last and
landed in the states May 3rd. He reached home on May 9. He was a member of the
9th Airborne Anti-Air Craft Battalion. Cpl. GARRETT wears the Asiatic-Pacific
Ribbon with three starts representing the Papaun Campaign, The New Guinea
Campaign, and the East Indies Campaign. He also wears the Presidential Citation
as well as six service stripes on his sleeve. He has two brothers in the
service, Sgt. Marvin, an aerial engineer in the Air Corps, who is on duty on the
west coast, and Berthol Junior, S2 c, stationed in Indianapolis, Ind. A family
reunion was held in the parents’ home Sunday and all children were home except
Sgt. Marvin. There is no need to say that Cpl. GARRETT was mighty glad to get
home after an absence of 40 months and we are all mighty glad to see him, just
the same as we are to see any of the boys back."
June 28, 1945 - "Sgt.
Bill GARRETT left Monday for Ft. Sheridan for reassignment."
July 5, 1945 – “Cpl. Charles W. GARRETT left here June 26 after enjoying a 45
day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and other relatives.
They found that “Bill”, as we know him, had a total of 91 points to his credit
and on reporting back at Ft. Sheridan the 28th, was handed his discharge
papers. Cpl. GARRETT entered the service on Jan. 13, 1942, and was shipped to
Southwest Pacific in May 1942 as a member of the 9th Airborne Anti-Aircraft
Battalion. He remained in this theater until March 31st, when he started home,
arriving here on May 9th. Cpl. GARRETT wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, the
Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars representing the Papaun Campaign, the New
Guinea Campaign, and the East Indies Campaign as well as the Presidential
Citation. Bill says he hasn’t got caught up on his loafing just yet but intends
to get into some kind of work in the near future.”
Marvin "Jack" Garrett
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 23, 1942 - "Swift
(from last week): Jack GARRETT and wife of Michigan called on his aunt, Mr. and
Mrs. Clyde BASSETT Tuesday evening. He will leave the 21st of July for Army
Service."
July 30, 1942 - "North
Fork from last week: Mr. and Mrs. Jack GARRETT returned to Sterling Wednesday
after spending a few days with his parents Bert GARRETT and family."
Oct. 14, 1943
-
"Pvt. and Mrs. Jack GARRETT are here helping to get ready and Mrs. Bert GARRETT
ready to move into their new home today. They are also helping to get ready for
the public sale to be held next Friday, Oct. 22."
Dec. 21, 1944 -
"Cpl. Jack GARRETT arrived Saturday from Colorado to spend a 20 day
furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT."
Nov. 22, 1945 – “Sgt. Marvin GARRETT home: Sgt. Marvin GARRETT, son of Mr. and
Mrs. B.O. GARRETT, arrived home Saturday evening after receiving his discharge
from Chanute Field that morning. Sgt. GARRETT entered the service July 21,
1942. He was trained as an aerial engineer in schools in Florida and the west
coast. Although he was stationed along the west coast, he made several trips
aboard a C-54 to the Southwest Pacific. Sgt. GARRETT wears the Good Conduct
Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of
Operations Ribbon with 4 stars representing the battles of
Leyte, Okinawa, Luzon, and Japan,
and the Victory Ribbon. He was discharged with a total of 61 points. After a
few days with homefolks, Jack, as we all know him, will return to his old job in
Sterling, Ill.”
Nov. 29, 1945 – “Sgt. Marvin GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT, who
arrived home Nov. 17, after receiving his discharge from the Army Air Corps at
Chanute Field that day.”
(V-101)
Floyd Garrett
(V-102)
"The Kinmundy Express"
Sept. 16, 1948 – “In the Army” – “Joe BARGH, Floyd GARRETT, Chuck GARDEN,
Bob BAILEY, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS, of Alma, left Friday for Ft. Knox, Ky. PFC
Jack HOYT and PFC Vernon JEZEK will report to Chanute Field at Rantoul, Ill.,
Wednesday.”
Dec. 30, 1948 - "Joe BARGH of Ft. Dix,
N.J., Floyd GARRETT, Chuck GARDEN, and Bobby Dan WILLIAMS stationed at Fort
Devens, Mass., spent Christmas with home folks."
Nov. 9, 1950 - "Arrives in Far East:
Cpl. Floyd E. GARRETT, 22, recently arrived in the Far East Command where he is
on duty with the Seventh Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Division as a squad leader
in Company E. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT, residents of the
North Fork community."
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. these can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F. MOTCH -
Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M. Co, Camp
Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F. HOYT -
545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd
Infantry Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc.
Paul WEST - U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T.
Sgt. Marion M. HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord.
MAM Co.; Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
May 17, 1951 -
"Wounded in Korea: Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT received a letter from their son,
Floyd GARRETT Sunday morning in which he stated that he had been slightly
wounded by shrapnel. At the time of writing the letter, he had recovered enough
that he was again on his way to the front lines."
Aug. 16, 1951 – “Sgt. Floyd GARRETT, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Bert GARRETT, arrived home last week after spending the past 3 years in
Japan and Korea. He is enjoying a 30 day furlough after which he will receive
his discharge.”
Sept. 27, 1951 – “- Helen ROBB and Floyd GARRETT
Married in Mt. Vernon Last Thursday Morning: On Thursday morning, Sept. 20th,
in Mt. Vernon, Ill., occurred the marriage of Miss Helen ROBB and Mr. Floyd
GARRETT. Mrs. GARRETT is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thurman ROBB and is
employed as an operator in the local exchange of the Bell Telephone Co. Mr.
GARRETT is the son of Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT. He received his discharge from
the army on Sept. 6, after serving for 3 years, the last year being in Korea.
Both Mr. and Mrs. GARRETT are graduates of the local high school with the class
of ‘46. For the present time they will reside in the apartment in the Zella
NEAVILL home. We join their many friends in extending congratulations.”
Dec. 6, 1951 – “ Sgt. Floyd GARRETT Awarded Bronze
Star Medal for Heroism in Action in Korea: SFC Floyd GARRETT of Kinmundy has
been awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V” device for heroism in action in
Korea.
GARRETT distinguished himself on June 6, 1951 near Sangsar-ri where his unit,
Company E of the 7th Infantry Regiment was attacking Hill 705. His
citation states, in part: “The 3rd Platoon (of Company E) was pinned
down by intense enemy automatic weapons fire. Knowing that artillery support
could not be utilized for fear of hitting the pinned down unit, Sergeant
GARRETT, a member of the 4th platoon voluntarily braved the heavy
fire in an effort to reach a forward position and director mortar fire upon the
entrenched foe. Although painfully wounded before reaching the position, he
continued to crawl forward and, upon reaching it, brought effective mortar fire
upon the hostile emplacement silencing the automatic weapons. Sergeant
GARRETT’s superb heroism and courageous initiative reflect great credit upon
himself and the military service.” Sgt. GARRETT received his discharge from the
Army Sept. 6th last.”
(V-415) Darrell Cecil Garrett
“The
Kinmundy Express”
May 30, 1957 - "Enters Service: Darrell GARRETT left Thursday for St.
Louis where he was inducted into the service."
June 20, 1957 - "Begins Basic Training: Mr. and Mrs. Cecil GARRETT have
received word that their son, Pvt. Darrell C. GARRETT, began his basic training
at Fort Carson, Colo., Monday, June 10."
Aug. 8, 1957 - "Home on Furlough: Pvt. Darrell GARRETT of Fort Carson,
Colo., arrived Saturday for a 14-day furlough enroute to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.,
where he will resume his duties."
Sept. 5, 1957 - "Pvt. Darrell GARRETT of Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and Don
GARRETT, of Peoria, spent the Labor Day Holidays with their parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Cecil GARRETT and Gary."
Oct. 31, 1957 - "To Leave for Germany" - "Pvt. Darrell GARRETT left
Tuesday, Oct. 22, for Fort Dix, N.J., after spending a few days here with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil GARRETT, while on a five day furlough enroute from
Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Word has been received by his parents since his
arrival in N.J., that his orders were to leave by plane for Wiesbaden, Germany
Sunday, Oct. 27."
May 15, 1958 – “Pfc
Darrell C. GARRETT in Northern Germany: Army PFC Darrell C. GARRETT, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Cecil GARRETT, Kinmundy, recently participated in annual firing practice
with the 443d Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion on the shores of the Baltic Sea
in Northern Germany (Wiesbaden). GARRETT, a jeep driver in the battalion’s
Battery C., entered the Army in May 1957, and received Basic training at Ft.
Carson, Colo. He was stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., before arriving in
Europe last October. The 23 year old soldier is a 1952 graduate of Kinmundy H.S.
He was employed by the Peoria Caterpillar Tractor Co., Peoria, in civilian
life.”
May 21, 1959 - "Receives Discharge: Mr. Darrell GARRETT received his
discharge at Fort Sheridan and arrived home Friday morning. Darrell had
spent the past 18 months in Germany. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil
GARRETT."
Donald Garrett
“The
Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 4, 1952 - "Send a Christmas Card to a local
Service Man": "Following are the addresses of local boys in the service so that
you may send them a Christmas card if you wish. We know the boys will be
glad to hear from you at anytime, but more especially near Christmas ..... Pvt.
Donald GARRETT, Hq. & Hq Co.; 1st Bn, 86th Inf. Reg. 10th Inf. Div.; Fort Riley,
Kansas."
Jan. 15, 1953 - "Pvt. Donald E. GARRETT, Fort Riley,
Kansas is another soldier boy who wishes to thank everyone for the many
Christmas cards and letters."
Dec. 24, 1953 - "Cpl. Donald GARRETT is spending a
few days delay enroute with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom GARRETT before
reporting to Fort Eustis, Va."
Aug. 5, 1954 - "Cpl. Donald E. GARRETT of Fort
Eustis, Va., came Monday for a 15 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Cecil GARRETT."
Oct. 28, 1954 – “Mr. and Mrs. Cecil GARRETT spent last week
enroute to Fort Eustis, Va. were their son, Donald E. GARRETT, received a
discharge from the army on Thursday.”
James Emmett Garrett
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 6, 1944 - "PFC James E. GARRETT, who is
stationed in Alabama, has been enjoying a furlough here with his parents, Mr.
and Mrs. Frank GARRETT."
Jan. 6, 1944 - "Pvt. Emmett GARRETT of Alabama, is
spending his furlough here with his parents. He spent the weekend in St.
Louis with friends."
June 14, 1945 - "Meet in Hawaii: T/4 Floyd JONES,
son of Mr. and Mrs. Merle JONES, and T/5 Emmitt GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Frank GARRETT, recently enjoyed a visit together in Hawaii. These lads are
cousins and had not seen each other for about 2 1/2 years."
Jan. 31, 1946 –“Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank
GARRETT received a telegram from their son, Emmitt, who has been overseas for
some time, stating that he was boarding a train for Jefferson Barracks.”
Feb. 7, 1946 –“Swift School: Cpl. Emmitt GARRETT
arrived home last week after receiving his discharge. He was in the service 38
months and will spend 2 months with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT,
before returning to his old job in Granite City. Welcome Home, Emmitt.”
'Emmett was drafted into the Army in 1942 and after basic training at Camp
Breckenridge, Kentucky, Tennessee Maneuvers and Camp Rucker, Alabama, he was
shipped to Hawaii where he trained for jungle and amphibious combat. Then
President Truman intervened. As Emmett recalled "we had all this amphibious and
jungle combat training and in the first week of August 1945, we made a landing
on an uninhabited island. Once we hit the island, we waited. Eventually, the
Navy came ashore and said for everybody to return to their ship but we didn't
know why. It was soon announced to us that the atomic bomb had been dropped on
Japan. That was followed by the Armistice on Aug 15. Then we were sent on to
Japan as Occupational Forces and I was one of the first soldiers that set foot
in Japan. President Truman saved my life that day by dropping the bomb."
Emmett was discharged from the Army in 1946 at Jefferson Barracks.' (This
was an excerpt from Emmett's obituary in 2013.)
(V-22) Carroll "Mac" Garrett
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 21, 1954 - "Pvt. Carroll GARRETT to Graduate:
Pvt.
Carroll M. GARRETT of Kinmundy will graduate this week from the Message Center
Course, one of the many courses offered at the Southern Signal School Camp
Gordon, Georgia. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll GARRETT."
Dec. 9, 1954 – “In Okinawa: Army Pvt. Carroll M.
GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll GARRETT of Kinmundy, recently arrived at
Fort
Buckner, Okinawa for duty with the Rysom Signal Service. A strong
U.S. outpost in the Far East, Okinawa is located off the coast of China between
Formosa and the southern tip of Japan. Pvt. GARRETT, a member
of Company A, entered the Army last May.”
May
10, 1956 - "Mac GARRETT SP3 U.S. Army returned home Thursday after
receiving his discharge May 2. He has spent the past 18 months in Okinawa. Mac
is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll GARRETT."
Orville E. "Pid" Garrett
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 19, 1917 - "Mesdames J.O. COX, Orville GARRETT,
S.E. ROBB and daughter Veda and Misses Margaret FRENCH and Erma COFFIN returned
home Monday after spending a few days at Camp Taylor with their husbands and
Ener ZIMMER and Walter MASON. They report a pleasant trip, the boys in
excellent health and that some of them would be home Christmas and some New
Years."
June 13, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Orville E. GARRETT - honorable discharge
Theodore L. "Roy" Garrett
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 30, 1944 - "Here's one from T/5 Theodore
L. GARRETT, better known to us as Roy. He is at present looking over the
belles of Tennessee and says: Well, I will finally get around to writing
you and thanking you for your paper. I have been having it pretty rough
down here in Tennessee, for it has been so rainy. I am in the engineers and we
are having quite a time building roads when it rains every day. I receive
your paper pretty good and it sure helps us keep up our morale. I know the
boys overseas are certainly glad to receive it. I hope this thing ends
soon so we can all get home again. I want to thank you again for the
paper, for I know that I should have written you long ago, but I have so much
writing to do you can't get around to every one."
Sept. 28, 1944 - "Cpl. Roy GARRETT has arrived in
England."
(V-25 & V-418)) Tom Garrett
(82nd Airborne - U.S. Army - WWII)
"The Kinmundy Express"
Apr. 9, 1942 - "In the Service .... Thomas L.
GARRETT"
May 13, 1943 - "Pfc. Tom GARRETT of Calif., is
spending his furlough with his parents Mr. and Mrs. Selby GARRETT in Alma and
relatives near here."
Oct. 21, 1943 - "Tom GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Selby GARRETT, of near Alma, has been given an honorable medical discharge and
at present is at home with his parents."
(V-375) Bernard B. Gaston
A.K. Geibe
“The Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 25, 1943 - "Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON and
daughter, Helen, and Mr. and Mrs. A.K. GEIBE motored to St. Louis Sunday a.m.
They visited with Mr. and Mrs. Ed WAGNER and Mr. and Mrs. Harve BYRNS and
daughter, Delores. Mr. GEIBE is a second class petty officer in the Navy.
He boarded a streamliner sunday afternoon to return to the western coast."
Dec. 30, 1943 - "A.K., S.K.2/c, and Mrs. GEIBE of
Alton, Mrs. Jack HONN and 2 children, and Helen JACKSON of Champaign; T 5 H
Merle JACKSON of Virginia; and Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS and children all
ate dinner with Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON and family. This family was complete
except S2 Kenneth JACKSON and Sgt. Jarn HONN, who are in the Army and Navy."
March 8, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS and
children, A.K. GEIBE, S.K.D.1/c and Mrs. A.K. GEIBE of Norman, Okla., were
dinner guests at the A.J. JACKSON home Sunday. The dinner was given in
honor of the two daughters' birthday."
Melvin Geiler
“The Kinmundy Express”
Feb. 17, 1944 - "According to the list received from
the Selective Service Board, the following Kinmundy boys have been inducted into
the Army and Navy and will soon leave for camp along with 54 other men from the
Salem area. Leo Marion JOHNSON, William Sherman JEANS, James Junior TATE,
Forrest Eugene BURKETT, Charles PERGL, Walter Earnest McHATTON, Melvin GEILER,
and Roy Edward MILLER."
Aug. 3, 1944 - "Pvt. Melvin GEILER of Florida is
enjoying a furlough here with his family."
Nov. 30, 1944 - "Pvt. Melvin GEILER, New Jersey,
spent the weekend here with his family."
Dec. 28, 1944 - "Receives Discharge: Pvt. Melvin GEILER has
received a medical discharge from the army and is again home with his family."
(V-72) Robert "Bob" Geiler
"The Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 17, 1952 - "Completes Basic Training: Pvt. Robert GEILER, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Harry GEILER of this city, has recently completed Basic Training at
Replacement Training Center, the Army's Transportation Center, Fort Eustis, Va.
The 8 weeks course consisted of basic infantry subjects including tactics,
marksmanship, customs of the service, first aid, map reading, and drill. Pvt.
GEILER is now ready to go to specialized training with the Army Transportation
Corps in any one of its four fields, rail, highway, marine, or air. He is
married to the former Miss Dorothy Frances DUNLAP."
May 21, 1953 – “Robert D. GEILER, whose wife, Dorothy,
and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry GEILER live in Kinmundy, was recently promoted
to private first class with the 724th Transportation Railway
Operating Battalion in Korea. The 724th, which operates most of the UN railway
equipment in Korea, is responsible for transporting men and supplies in support
of front line forces. Pvt. 1st Class GEILER, a railway switchman in Co.
C., entered the Army in Jan. 1952, and was stationed in Ft. Eustia, Va. before
arriving overseas.”
Oct. 2, 1952 - "Boys in Service: Bob GEILER - U.S.A."
Dec. 24, 1953 – “Pvt. Robert GEILER arrived home Sunday
on a Christmas furlough, awaiting a discharge from the Army. He has been
stationed in Korea.”
(V-374) Basil Gentry
"The Kinmundy Express"
Apr. 24, 1941 - "Christy E. GENTRY, H. Merle
JACKSON, Merle HEADLEY, John Wm. McCULLEY, and Harold B. JONES left last week
for camp. They went to Chicago on Wednesday but we haven’t heard just where
each was sent."
June 12, 1941
- On June 7, Mr. and Mrs. Thurman McCULLEY, Lawson GEIBE and Mr. and Mrs. A.J.
JACKSON started on a motor trip to Camp Forrest, Tenn. There are 70,000
soldiers on maneuvers in that locality. John McCULLEY and Merle JACKSON are
enjoying good health and were certainly glad to see their parents. They also
visited Harold JONES, the EAGAN brothers, Christy GENTRY, and others. After
Merle and John secured passes, they all went to Chattanooga then and while there
visited the top of Lookout Mountain, where the Battle of Chicamaugua and
Chattanooga were fought. Mrs. McCULLEY’s father was stationed on Lookout
Mountain during the Civil War, so naturally this visit was of much interest to
her. Mr. GEIBE’s grandfather also saw service on this historical mountain."
Oct. 11, 1945 - "Pvt. Basil GENTRY of Ft. Benning,
Ga., arrived here Tuesday to spend a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and
Mrs. Retus GENTRY and family."
(V-255b) Christy Gentry
“The Kinmundy Express”
Apr. 24, 1941 - "Christy E. GENTRY, H. Merle
JACKSON, Merle HEADLEY, John Wm. McCULLEY, and Harold B. JONES left last week
for camp. They went to Chicago on Wednesday but we haven’t heard just where
each was sent."
June 12, 1941 - On June 7, Mr. and Mrs. Thurman
McCULLEY, Lawson GEIBE and Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON started on a motor trip to
Camp Forrest, Tenn. There are 70,000 soldiers on maneuvers in that locality.
John McCULLEY and Merle JACKSON are enjoying good health and were certainly glad
to see their parents. They also visited Harold JONES, the EAGAN brothers,
Christy GENTRY, and others. After Merle and John secured passes, they all went
to Chattonooga then and while there visited the top of Lookout Mountain, where
the Battle of Chicamaugua and Chattanooga were fought. Mrs. McCULLEY’s father
was stationed on Lookout Mountain during the Civil War, so naturally this visit
was of much interest to her. Mr. GEIBE’s grandfather also saw service on this
historical mountain."
July 10, 1941 - Merle JACKSON, Christy GENTRY,
Stephen and Floyd EAGAN, all of Camp Forest, Tenn. are home on furlough this
weekend.
May 7, 1942 - "Mr. Christy E. GENTRY of Camp
Forrest, Tenn, is here spending furlough with his parents."
May 25, 1944 - "Here's a letter from Cpl. Christy E.
GENTRY, who is now in the Hawaiian Islands. He says: 'I've been over in
the Hawaiian Islands for 9 months, so I think it is about time for me to give
you my address which is slightly changed from the one I had in the desert.
I told Dad to tell you it was changed, but I suppose he forgot to tell you as it
is still addressed the old way. I think you know the paper is very much
appreciated. quite a bit of it contains articles that are of interest to
me. Your editorial column is usually of most interest to me. And
then comes wedding announcements of a lot of my friends. Some are quite a
surprise to me as I didn't expect that Cupid was working on them. So far
I've escaped the little fellows' arrows. I guess m y skin is a bit too
tough, anyway, they have trouble sticking a need in my arm. Isn't there
some way you could put in a little more about church activities, especially the
Methodists. I would like to know more of how services at home are getting
along. My church activities have been with the Salvation Army since I have
been over here. It may seem strange to you and it did to me, there isn't a
Methodist Church on the Island I am stationed on. Our chaplain is a
Methodist but that is the closest. I have more to say for the Salvation
Army and there are plenty more soldiers that will back me up. Besides the
church services which was my best interest, they also operate a canteen route on
which they take coffee and doughnuts to guard posts at night. The time
spent on these routes are their time which they could use elsewhere. The
soldiers on guard greatly appreciate this during the night. Perhaps you
think hot coffee and Hawaii doesn't go together, but a lot of the nights get
cool enough till I have wished more than once that I had another blanket
besides the two I have and we have a mattress under us. And troops that
are in action in the South Pacific can and will tell you that they get this
service there. Sometimes the Salvation Army Officer gets in some dangerous
places while passing out the coffee and words of cheer. Their Red Shield
U.S.O. Clubs are all over, even in New Guinea, and the ones back home seemed to
be the most popular of all U.S.O.'s with the army boys. The reason I've
said this is because I get made when I read how much the Red Cross is doing and
yet I don't even see what they do nor in talking with others do I hear about it.
The Salvation Army is doing as much or more for us Service men than the Red
Cross but they don't get credit for it in the paper. Most any serviceman
who has been across will tell you the Salvation Army has done more than the Red
Cross, soldiers for both wars. So I wonder why you newspaper men don't
mention the work of the Salvation Army as well as the Red Cross. They
deserve it as their money comes from donations too. Enough for that.
I've saw John "Bill" McCULLEY a couple of times but I don't think he recognized
me and I didn't have time to stop him. I sport a mustache on my lip which
must change my appearance. How is Guin getting along? I'd better
quit for now, maybe I'll get enough ambition to write again.'"
Nov. 29, 1945 – “T4 Christy GENTRY, son of Mr. and Mrs. S.W. GENTRY, arrived
home Nov. 10, after receiving his discharge at Ft. Sheridan on Nov. 18th. He was
the only member of the famous 33rd Division from Kinmundy to receive his
discharge at Fort Sheridan. Christy entered the
service April 16, 1941, and shipped overseas July 8, 1943, landing in Hawaii.
From there he went to New Guinea, then to the Netherlands East Indies, then to
Luzon, then to Japan. He started home Oct. 30, and landed in Van Couver, Nov.
11. Sgt. GENTRY wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, the
American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon,
The Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the Luzon and New Guinea
Campaigns, and the Unit Citation. As to his future, Christy says in all
probability, he will go on to school.”
Clayton Shelly Gentry
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 30, 1945 – “Camp Wolters, Texas - Pvt. Clayton Shelly GENTRY, 18, son of
Shelly W. GENTRY of Kinmundy, 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.”
Feb. 13, 1947 - "Meadow Branch: PFC Clayton GENTRY
was discharged at Fort Sheridan recently. He arrived home Feb. 10 and
spent a few days here. He was in the army one and one-half years. He
served in the Infantry in Italy. He left Sunday for Decatur where he has
employment."
Retus B. Gentry
“The Kinmundy Express”
May 22, 1941 - "Retus GENTRY of Jefferson Barracks
has been a patient in the hospital there for the past two weeks."
June 12, 1941 - "(Shanghai): Mr. Retus GENTRY was
returned to Jefferson Barracks Hospital where he will undergo a major operation
this week."
Sept. 27, 1945 – “Pvt. Retus B. GENTRY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Retus GENTRY, of
Kinmundy, has won the right to wear the “Boots and Wings” of the U.S. Army
Paratroops. He has completed 4 weeks of jump training during which time he made
5 jumps, the last a tactical jump at night involving a combat problem on
landing. Jumping at The Parachute School has steadily developed to a recognized
war science. American paratroopers have been recognized throughout the world
for their meritorious actions against the enemy. In addition to producing
jumpers, Parachute Specialist Training is given to qualified men in
communications, Demolition, Riggers and Parachute Maintenance, vital skills for
Airborne Troops.”
Dec. 7, 1950 - "Send Christmas Cards
to the Boys in the Service: Here are some of the boys addresses from this
community who are in the service. It has been suggested that as many as
can, send them a Christmas card. these can be sent anytime now. We
know that they will appreciate hearing from you, no matter if you know them or
not. Pfc. Wm D. LEE - Hq. & Hq Co. 32nd Inf. Regt.; Sgt. B.D. WILLIAMS -
Co. "A" 10th Engr (C) Bn., 3rd Inf. Div.; Pfc. Marion E. SHAFFER -
Co. H 17th Info. Regt.; Sgt. Charles GARDEN - H & S Co. 10th Engr. C Bn, 3rd
Inf. Div.; L.J. DISS - EMFN- U.S.N., U.S.S. Canistoe; Sgt. Richard F. MOTCH -
Hq. Btry 24th Div. Arty; Rct. Ralph B. KRUTSINGER - 301st Ordnance H.M. Co, Camp
Rucker, Alabama; Cpl. Robert J. HOYT, Alaska Gen. Depot; Pvt. John F. HOYT -
545th Q.M.S.U. Co.; Sgt. Floyd E. GARRETT - Co. "E" 7th Inf. Regt., 3rd Infantry
Div.; Dwight C. DAY, U.S. Naval Station; Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY; Pfc. Paul
WEST - U.S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, IL; Pfc. Lewis J. PHILLIPS; T. Sgt.
Marion M. HINES, Hq. Btry, 31st F.A. Bn.; Pfc. Eugene R. BAKER - 538 Ord. MAM
Co.; Mervin CHEADLE, C.417-121st Battalion, U.S. Naval Training Center."
Jan. 25, 1951 - "I want to thank my friends for the many Christmas cards I
received from you. They were certainly appreciated. Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY.
In Korea."
Dec. 13, 1951 - "Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY left Wednesday
for Camp Breckenridge, Ky after spending a 30 day furlough with relatives and
friends in Kinmundy."
March 20, 1952 - "Cpl. Retus B. GENTRY of Ft.
Leonard Wood, is spending a 15 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Retus
GENTRY."
William "Bill" Gentry
“The
Kinmundy Express” – Jan. 14, 1954 – “Local Items from Last Week: Cpl. Bill
GENTRY arrived home Sunday to spend furlough with his father, Shelley GENTRY,
before receiving his discharge. He has been stationed in
Panama
for 18 months.”
William Henry Gigar
"The Marion County Express Express" - Kinmundy,
IL:
Apr. 20, 1918 - "Joining the Colors: Kinmundy .... Wm.
Henry GIGER"
Sept. 5, 1918 - "More Selected Men: 12 more men
have been added to Kinmundy's contribution to democracy's forces. The following
12 men left Salem Thursday afternoon for Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Mich.: Hugh
COUGHLIN, Morgan H. PHILLIPS, William H. GIGAR, Charles KAGY, Otto V. REESE,
John Arthur HOWELL, Clifford M. DOWNS, Clifford G. JACKSON, Fred COURSON, Henry
E. METZGER, Gordon KRUTSINGER, and Otis E. SMITH. It is a significant
coincidence that one of these boys, Clifford DOWNS, has a brother who has
already fallen a prey to the Hun and without a doubt he goes with a very
definite purpose and a fair realization of what he is going into. We
believe these boys are going with a clear realization of the noble and righteous
cause in which they are taking up arms and with a high resolve to give their all
if need be. We trust they may also have as full a realization of our
support to our uttermost resources; even to the point of great sacrifices."
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James Gile
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Brian Goff
“The
Kinmundy Express” – Apr. 8, 2004 – “
Apr. 8, 2004 – “Corporal Brian E. GOFF was awarded the Bronze Star with combat
distinguishing device (a “V” for valor) by the president. In addition, Brian
received a certificate and letter from Lieutenant General James T. Conway,
commanding general of the Marine Expeditionary Force. Brian joined the Marines
on Jan. 8, 2001. He was deployed on Oct. 2, 2001 to Afghanistan after
volunteering for the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. He served as a
combat engineer, clearing land mines. He was deployed to Kuwait on Feb. 12,
2003 and entered Iraq on March 20th, 2003 when the United States and
its allies began the liberation of Iraq. Currently Brian is stationed at Camp
Lejeune, North Carolina. Son of Ted and Katy (WOODEN) GOFF of Alma and Brenda
and Mike MORTON of Kell, Brian graduated from Salem Community High School in
December of 2000. Other decorations Brian has been awarded are as follows:
National Defense Medal; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Navy
Achievement Medal; Marine Good conduct Medal; Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon;
Navy Unit Citation Ribbon; (2) Combat Action Ribbons; and (2) Sea Service
Deployment Ribbons. Brian was awarded the Bronze Star following this
reconnaissance mission: After attaching to the 1st Battalion, 4th
Marines on Feb. 23, 2003, Corporal GOFF was selected as an Engineer
Reconnaissance Scout. This would require him to train extensively with a CAAT
(Combined Anti-Armor Team) team, as well as a scout sniper team, to learn their
tactics which would allow him to move further from friendly lines than normal
and would greatly increase the Battalion’s mobility. Once combat operations
commenced, Corporal GOFF proved his worth by operating as a CAAT team member and
a reconnaissance scout. The mobility of the battalion regularly rested in this
capable Marine’s hands as he provided route reconnaissance while on the move.
On Apr. 7, 2003, Corporal GOFF was sent on a reconnaissance patrol to locate a
potential bridging site and/or Assault Amphibian Vehicle crossing site. This
required a detailed reconnaissance of over 4000 meters of the Iraqi’s Nahr
Diyala River, to include the western ‘Baghdad’ side where enemy were encountered
previously that day. While enroute to the reconnaissance, A Company became
heavily engaged at the north end of the zone. Corporal GOFF and the rest of the
patrol detached to begin the mission. Approximately 100 meters into his patrol,
a potential crossing site was found. After a detailed recon of the friendly
side with positive results, Corporal GOFF prepared quickly to personally swim
across the river with enemy located on the other side. Corporal GOFF, not
thinking of his own safety, and undaunted by the possibility of an enemy
position on the far side of the river, or the fact the intelligence reports
stated that the river may have been poisoned with cyanide and blister agents,
swam across the river 150 meters, armed only with a 9 mm pistol. After locating
an exit point, assembly area, and a release point, Corporal GOFF noticed 2 enemy
fighting revetments. Corporal GOFF quickly moved to ensure that they were clear
of enemy, so that they could not inhibit 1st Battalion 4th
Marines amphibious assault. After clearing the revetments, Corporal GOFF began
to swim back to friendly lines. As Corporal GOFF returned, many shots were
fired at him from the enemy’s side. Corporal GOFF exited the river, retrieved
his gear and continued the patrol to the south. The site found by Corporal GOFF
allowed 1st Battalion 4th Marines to conduct the first
combat amphibious river crossing since the Korean War. This site also allowed 3rd
Battalion, 1st Marines and Regimental Combat Team Five to cross after
1st Battalion, 4th marines. The crossing site let the 1st
Marine Division to push combat power ashore, secure a bridge head line, and
surprise the enemy. Corporal GOFF’s exceptional leadership abilities made a
material contribution to the effectiveness of his unit. Through sheer will,
strength of character and clear understanding of his surroundings, Corporal GOFF
enabled his unit to crush the enemy’s ambush and accomplish its mission.”
Michele R. (WELLS) GOLD (on right side of photo)
Michele R. (Wells) Gold
served 1988 - 2015 with several medical units for
the U.S. Army.
She retired after 27 years including time in Iraq,
Germany, and Korea.
Fort Sam Houston, Texas – Retirement & Awards Ceremony – Aug. 27, 2015:
"Sergeant First Class - Michele R. GOLD
Sergeant First Class Michele GOLD enlisted in the Army Reserves in
St. Louis, MO as a Healthcare Specialist on 1 Sept. 1988. She attended Basic
Combat Training in July 1989 at Fort McClellan, AL and Advanced Individual
Training at Fort Sam Houston, TX in Sept. of 1989. She was awarded the MOS of
91A in December of 1989. SPFC GOLD spent four years in the Army Reserves. SFC
GOLD switched to active component in August of 1992. Her first duty station was
the 801st Main Support Battalion, Fort Campbell, KY. While assigned
to the 801st Main Support Battalion, Fort Campbell, KY. While
assigned to the 801st, she worked as a medic with a treatment
platoon. Her next duty station was with the 703rd Main Support
Battalion in Kitzingen, Germany which later became the 701st Main
Support Battalion, while assigned as a medic in an ambulance platoon. From
there SFC GOLD reported to the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research where she
worked providing medical support and laboratory assistance for human research
studies. Upon leaving the institute of research, SFC GOLD went to 168th
Medical Battalion in Yongsan, Korea where she served as an aid station
Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC). She reported to Fort Lewis, WA where
she was assigned as an emergency Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) to the 102nd
Forward Surgical Team. She returned back to Korea assigned to the 702nd
Main Support Battalion where she was assigned as a squad leader for an ambulance
platoon. She then returned to Fort Lewis, WA where she was assigned to Madigan
Army Medical Center as the Department of Pediatrics NCOIC and later as the
Training and Operations NCO for Alpha Company. Her next assignment was as a
Platoon Sergeant with the 520th Area Support Medical Company where
she deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2010, SFC GOLD was
assigned as an Instructor/Writer to the Department of Combat Medic Training,
Fort Sam Houston, TX. In August of 2011, she moved to the Department of Combat
Medic Education as a curriculum writer and the Total Army Schools Systems 68W
NCOIC.
SFC GOLD’s military education includes: Unit Victim’s Advocate
Course, Total Army Instructor’s Course, Senior Leadner’s Course, Advanced
Leader’s Course and the Warrior Leader’s Course.
SFC GOLD’s awards and decorations include: the Bronze Star Medal,
Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (5), Army Achievement Medal
(7), Good Conduct Medal (7), National Defense Service Medal (3), Korean Service
Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NCO Professional Development
Ribbon (3), Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon (4), Meritorious
Unit Citation, Army Superior Unit Award and the Driver Mechanic’s Badge (W)."
Douglas Goodwin
"The Kinmundy Express"
Apr. 4, 1946 - "Brown (from last week) : Farewell
Party - "A large crowd attended the party at the E.C. GOODWIN home Wednesday
night for Douglas GOODWIN and Laurell RITTER who left Thursday for service.
Refreshments of sandwiches, pickles, cookies and coffee were served."
July 18, 1946 - "Douglas GOODWIN returned to New
Jersey Saturday after a leave with his parents, E.C. GOODWIN and wife."
Apr. 17, 1947 - "Brown: Douglas GOODWIN who has been
overseas the past 8 months, returned home last week."
Apr. 17, 1947 - "Miletus: We are rejoicing to know
that so many of our boys are returning from overseas: Lavern YATES arrived home
March 24th, Francis KRUTSINGER, April 5th; Charles BLOMBERG, last week, all from
Honshu Honshu Island, Japan. Douglas GOODWIN arrived home April 7th from
Philippines and Junior BUTTS and Walter BRIMBERRY, April 14 from Hawaii."
Jason Goodwin
"The Kinmundy Express"
June 1, 1944 - "Accepted for Army and Navy: The following men
have been accepted for service in the armed forces, Dale BRASEL, Salem; Wm.
BROOM, Raymond DOUDERA and Harold JONES, Alma; Frederick MISELBROOK, Ray
BOUGHERS, Jason GOODWIN, Francis KRUTSINGER, and Walter BRIMBERRY, of Kinmundy."
(V-420) Charles Junior Gordon
and wife, with Maxey Spencer on the right.
February, 1944 - Loredo, Texas
"The Kinmundy Express"
Nov. 5, 1942 -
"Junior GORDON and Dick JONES
were the guests of honor at a wiener roast given in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Art
HONHE on Oct. 26. These boys are now in the Army Air Corps somewhere in Texas.
On Tuesday night the boys attended a party in Farina in the Dan WADE home. Many
of the boys friends attended both parties."
March
4, 1943 - "Pvt. Junior GORDON arrived Tuesday morning from Texas for a
furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Orville GORDON and daughter Betty."
March 11, 1943 - "Junior GORDON was given a very
pleasant surprise Sunday when quite a number of his friends and neighbors
gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Orval GORDON to visit with him while he is
home on a furlough. The evening was spent in visiting and entertaining.
At the end of the evening refreshments of sandwiches cake and coffee were
served. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. Walter MILLER and daughter,
Emogene, Mr. and Mrs. Leslie DeWERFF and family, Mr. and Mrs. Otto DeWERFF and
daughter Edith June, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur HOEHNE and daughter Charlene, Mr. and
Mrs. Berle BARKSDALE of Salem, Mr. and Mrs. Glenn SIGRIST and family, Mr. and
Mrs. Bill LUX and son Jimmy, Mr. and Mrs. Ray GEORGE and daughter Eileen, Mr.
and Mrs. George SOLDNER and daughter Helen, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde PERRY, Mr. and
Mrs. Ross HANNA and sons, Mrs. Fannie MILLER and daughter Laverne, Mrs. Nola
YUND and sons, Mr. and Mrs. Bert McGUIRE and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Dan WADE of
Farina and Mr. and Mrs. William FURRY of St. Louis."
Nov. 25, 1943 - "Cpl. Richard JONES and Mrs. Junior
GORDON left Friday for Texas. Richard is to be transferred to Mississippi
and Mrs. GORDON will remain in Texas for an extended visit with her husband, who
is stationed there."
Apr. 27, 1944 - "Sherman: PFC Junior GORDON left
Monday afternoon to report at his camp in Texas after spending his furlough with
home folks. Mrs. GORDON remained for a longer visit."
Nov. 2, 1944 - "PFC Junior GORDON and wife of Texas,
are spending his furlough with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Art HOEHNE and Mr.
and Mrs. Orval GORDON."
May 3, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. Orval GORDON have
received word from the son, Pvt. Junior GORDON, that he was sent to the Regional
Hospital in San Antonio, Texas where he was operated on for an injured knee.
Latest report was he is getting along fine and hopes to be back at camp in 90
days."
Donald Gordon
"The
Kinmundy Express” - Oct. 12, 1967 - "SP/5 Donald GORDON spent last
Wednesday with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Orval GORDON. He had just
returned from Fort Riley, Kansas, where he received his discharge, after
spending 2 years in the Army one year being spent in Vietnam."
Orville Gordon
"The
Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 14, 1942 - "In the Service: Orville GORDON"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Orville GORDON"
Richard Gottfried
“The Kinmundy Express” – Oct. 10, 1963 - "Sgt. and Mrs. Richard GOTTFRIED
and children of Bamberg, Germany, arrived Saturday for a visit with her parents,
Mr. and Mrs. George FORD and Judy. They had spent the past three years in
Germany. Other weekend visitors in the FORD home were Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth
FORD of Chicago, Miss Donna FORD of Springfield, Mr. and Mrs. Richard FORD and
children of near Brubaker, and Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy BERNHARDT of St. Peter."
(V-73) Lawrence Gottman
Richard "Dick" Gragg
“Richard
began his 30 years of service with the United States Navy after college.
Receiving his commission in May, 1967, at the Officer Candidate School in
Pensacola, Florida. After he served in Vietnam as a Naval Intelligence Liaison
Officer at Cam Ranh Bay with the Navy "Market Time" patrol forces, he then
supported Seal Team 1 and the Twenty First ARVN Division in Bac Liiu. He
received the Bronze Star Medal for Valor for his service in Vietnam. Richard
went on to serve with pride and devotion in Japan, Iceland, Singapore, Hawaii,
San Diego, Operation Desert Storm, the Pentagon, and on the USS Independence,
USS Midway, USS New Jersey, USS Missouri, USS Saratoga, and the USS Long Beach."
(Excerpt from his obituary September 2020)
John L. Grant
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 28, 1968 – “Army Private John L. GRANT, 20, son
of Mrs. Maurine Grant of Kinmundy, completed a wheeled-vehicle mechanic course
March 15 at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. During the course, he was trained to
repair internal combustion engines and wheeled vehicle chassis components.
Instruction was given in the fundamentals of electrical and transmission
systems.”
July 11, 1968 – “Army Specialist 4 John L. GRANT, 21,
son of Mrs. Marcine Grant, Kinmundy, was assigned June 20 as an auto repairman
in the 51st Light Maintenance Co. near Can Tho Vietnam.”
Ronald L. Grant
“The Kinmundy Express” – April 2, 1964 – “Ronald L. GRANT, 18, son of Mr. and
Mrs. Donald B. Grant of Kinmundy, completed basic training March 13 at the Naval
training center,
Great Lakes,
Ill. The 9 week training includes naval orientation, history and
organization, seamanship, ordnance and gunnery, military drill, first aid and
survival. During the training recruits receive tests and interviews which
determine their future assignments in the Navy. Upon completing the
program they are assigned to service schools for technical training or to ships
and stations for on-the-job training in a Navy rating specialty. Naval
training produces the power in seapower by supplying qualified personnel to man
the ships, planes, and shore stations of today's Navy.”
Steven L. Grant
“The Kinmundy Express” –
Aug. 12,
1971 - "Army Private Steven L. Grant, 20, son of Mrs. Maurine Grant, Kinmundy,
recently completed an 8-week Combat Engineer course at the U.S. Army Training
Center, Engineer, Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. Pvt. Grant’s wife, Shawna, lives on Rt.
3 Kinmundy."
Bennie Gray
“The Kinmundy Express” – Apr. 12, 1951 – “Bennie GRAY, of the Army Air Force, is
spending a few days with his brother and family, the Richard GRAYs. GRAY, who
has been at Las Vegas, Nev., has been transferred to Scott Field.”
Donald R. Gray
"The
Kinmundy Express”
May 18, 1944 - "In the Service: Donald R. GRAY"
Jan. 11, 1945 - "In the Service: Donald R. GRAY"
(V-256b)
Harry Gray, Jr.
“The Kinmundy Express”
Oct. 7, 1943 - "Accepted for Service: We have been
informed that the following Kinmundy men have been accepted for service and are
now stationed in various camps: Woodrow WILKINSON, Thomas A. BOONE, Harry E.
GRAY Jr., and Manuel WELSH."
Nov. 25, 1943 - "Mrs. Harry GRAY, Jr. left this week
for Alabama to find work and be near her husband."
Dec. 30, 1943 - "Here’s one from Pvt. Harry GRAY,
Jr. who is stationed down in Alabama. He says: I am dropping you a few lines to
let you know how much I enjoy your paper. I got a big laugh from your Zatso
column last week about your dog trouble. I hope it doesn’t happen again. I am
also enjoying the good old sunny south with its red clay mountains and beautiful
tall pine trees. It’s a nice place to be but I sure do miss good old Kinmundy
and Bargh’s Drug Store. I suppose you folks back home know that my wife is with
me enjoying the sunny too. There are things I would like to say about my
training but I guess I’d better not. Thanks a million for the paper and have a
Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year."
Apr. 20, 1944 - "Mrs. Harry GRAY, Jr. has just
received word from her husband that he has landed safely overseas."
June 29, 1944
- "Here’s one from Pvt. Harry GRAY, Jr., who
is also in England. He says: I am now in the E.T.O. (England). It is not a bad
place to be because a lot of the boys are in a lot worse places. Well, I
received my first Kinmundy paper and was sure glad to get it. I like to read the
Zatso and the service boys letters. Also have some pals that like to read the
paper too. Most boys in the service think being overseas is a bad thing and
don’t want to come across. But I sure have seen a lot of things since I left
home. I have been in Ireland, Scotland, and England. All 3 are very pretty
countries. I sure enjoyed the boat ride over too. I never saw so much water in
my whole life, than when I came across. It was kind of a rough trip, but I made
out pretty well outside of days when I was seasick. Before we got on the boat,
the Red Cross gave us a cup of coffee and something to eat also when we got off.
So I think the Red Cross helps the boys in the service a lot. The people here
are pretty nice to us soldiers, so we have a pretty nice time when we go on
pass. But the funny part about it, I have never been on pass since I have been
over here. Every time I think I will go out I change my mind and instead write
my wife a letter. There is one thing I don’t like about the E.T.O., we have to
sew and wash our own clothes, so the army as a whole makes a pretty good girl
out of you. There are a lot of things I would like to tell you about, but you
know I can’t. But when the D day is over and the boys come marching home, maybe
we can tell you more about it then. Well, I can’t write very good, but maybe you
can read this some way. I want to thank you again for the paper and keep them
coming am always glad to get it. So good bye and keep the old home town a
going."
Oct. 9, 1944 - "Mrs. Harry GRAY, Jr. received word
Monday that her husband had been wounded in action in France. His wounds are
slight and he is hospitalized in England."
Feb. 15, 1945
- "Word has been received by his wife, Mrs. Jean GRAY, that her husband, Pvt.
Harry GRAY, Jr. had left the hospital in England Jan. 12. He was wounded in
action in France on Sept. 27 of last year while serving the infantry with
General PATTON’s Third Army. At present he is in England with the Army Air
Force and writes how much easier job but don’t know how long it will last. He
received the Purple Heart for his wounds."
March 1, 1945 - "Here’s a letter from Pvt. Harry
GRAY, Jr., who has just left a Hospital in England after being wounded and is
now working in the Air Force in England. His letter was dated 30 January and
says: Been a long time since I have written to you, but was thinking about it a
lot of times. Have been pretty busy. I got wounded on the German and French
border. It sure was hell too. I was upon the front a little over 2 months and
in them 2 months, I never did go thru as much hell as I did then. We were
fighting day and night and when we got time to catch a little sleep, the Jerrys
would open up on us again and we sure couldn’t sleep thru that. Sometimes I
don’t see how I lived thru it. Street fighting for me is the worst there is.
I’ve seen all the different kind of fighting I care to see. I could tell you
about a lot of different things I have been thru, but I don’t care to talk about
it. They take good care of a man when he’s in the hospital. I was in the
hospital a little over 3 months. The first month I was in bed, that bed sure
did feel good. But now I am out of the hospital and in a Repl. camp. I was put
in a non-combat outfit in the Army Air Force. I am getting along alright now.
It’s been a long time since I have seen a home town paper. I don’t think I’d
know what one would look like. I sure hope that my mail catches up with me
soon. It takes longer for papers to come through than it would take a letter.
I sincerely thank all the people in the community for all the lovely Christmas
cards they sent me and hope by next year, I’ll be home. With the help of God,
and the prayers of the people back home, let’s hope the war will come to an end
soon. Then all the boys can come home again to their loved ones."
Oct. 4, 1945 – “Pvt. Harry GRAY, Jr., arrived here Monday to spend a 45 day
furlough with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry GRAY, Sr. and family.
Harry entered the service Sept. 8, 1943, and sailed overseas March 22, 1944. He
later went to Scotland, England and on July 14th, entered France with the 4th
Armored Division. At Rushing Court in Northern France, on Sept. 27, he was
wounded in the right knee by shrapnel. He was sent to a hospital in England
where his wound healed. He was then assigned to the 1259th Military Police
Division and on March 12, 1945, went back to France and was stationed at
Abbeyville. On May 18th he sailed for Trinidad and from there to British Guinea. He left there by plane on Sept. 19th
and arrived in Miami, Fla., the following
day. Pvt. GRAY wears the Infantryman’s badge, Good Conduct Medal, the American
Theater of Operations Ribbon, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2
stars, representing the battles of Normandy and Northern France, and the Purple
Heart. After the expiration of his furlough he will report back to Miami where
he has been assigned to the Army Transport Command.”
Oct. 11, 1945 - "Pvt.
Harry GRAY, Jr., who arrived home Oct. 1st, to spend a 30 day furlough with his
wife and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry GRAY, Sr., and family. Pvt. GRAY has
been in the service 2 years, and was wounded in the knee at Rushing Court,
France, on Sept. 27, 1944."
Jerry E. Gray
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 26, 1964 – "In Service: Pvt. Jerry E. GRAY, recently entered the
U.S. Army. His address is Co. B; 4 Battalion; 2 D-Training Regiment Basic;
Fort Leonard Wood, Mo."
Apr. 30, 1964 - "Pvt. Jerry E. GRAY spent the weekend with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul GRAY, and visiting other relatives and friends."
Dec. 24, 1964 – "PFC Jerry GRAY and SP5 Thomas SARGENT of Fort Riley,
Kansas, arrived in Kinmundy Saturday. Jerry will spend a 10 day furlough
here with his father, Mr. Paul GRAY, and other relatives while his buddy left
Tuesday evening for Springfield, Mo. to visit relatives."
Oct. 21, 1965 – "They are trained and ready to
meet the new face of war...' said the "Big Red One" commander, Maj. Gen.
Jonathan O. Seaman, as PFC Jerry E. GRAY debarked in Vietnam with other members
of the 1st Infantry Division. Son of Paul H. GRAY, Kinmundy, Ill., GRAY is
assigned as a driver with the division which was ordered to duty there as a
result of President Johnson's announced troop build-up in Vietnam. "The
Fightin' First", as it is also known, participated in 18 major campaigns during
World Wars I and II earning 15 battle streamers. In World War II the
division was first in North Africa, Sicily and France, and first to crack
Hitler's Sigfried Line. During the two wars 21 of the division's members
were awarded the coveted Medal of Honor. General Seaman noted the spirit
of the unit and the capabilities of its men when he remarked, '...These men of
the 1st Division are good, and they know it...'. GRAY received basic
training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and was last stationed at Fort Riley, Kan.
The 22-year-old soldier is a 1960 graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School."
%20Air%20Strip%20Phouc%20Vinh,%20South%20Viet%20Nam.jpg)
(V-362) Jerry E. Gray (center)
- Air Strip Phouc Vinh, South Viet
Nam
(V-363) Jerry E. Gray - Phouc Vinh, South Viet Nam M 60 Machine
Gun - Dec. 20, 1965
“The Kinmundy Express”
Dec. 2, 1965 – “Sp/4 Jerry E. GRAY is now in
Viet Nam
Sp/4 Jerry E. GRAY, HQ Co. 1st Bn. 28th Inf.”
Dec. 30, 1965 – “The Kinmundy Woman’s Club recently had
the pleasure of hearing from one of our boys in Viet Nam, SP/4 Jerry E. GRAY.
His note read as follows:
“Received your package today. Was very pleased to get it. I can use it. It
gives all of us a very warm feeling to know the people at home are behind us.
Thanks you each and every one very much. Jerry”
Dec. 30, 1965 - "Thank You! I wish to thank all my
relatives and friends for the many Christmas cards, letters and packages I have
received during the Holiday Season. May God bless you all. SP/4
Jerry GRAY."
March 10, 1966 – “A welcome home super will be held in
the American Legion Hall, Sat., March 12th at 7:00 p.m. in honor of
Jerry GRAY, who arrived here Monday, March 7th, from Viet Nam, where
he had been since last September. The supper will be a potluck and everyone is
welcome. Please bring your own table service.”
Richard "Dick" Gray
“The Kinmundy Express”
March 8, 1944 - "Report for Examination: Dwight
ALEXANDER, Fred BOYD, Glen WHITE, Herschel KRUTSINGER, Albert CORRELL and George
BUTTS, of Kinmundy, and Richard GRAY and Roy Otis HINES of Alma, were asked this
week to report for the physical examination, preparatory to entering the armed
forces. In addition to these boys, there are 117 others from the Salem
district making a total of 125 for this area."
June 8, 1944 - "S2/c Dick GRAY is home from boot
training at Great Lakes."
June 21, 1945 – “Richard GRAY, S1c, arrived home Tuesday night, to spend a 30
day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lavern GRAY in Alma, and with his
grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert GRAY in this city. Dick entered the Navy on
April 13, 1944. After completing his boot training at the Great Lakes Naval
Training Station, he was sent to the Southwest Pacific. And although he has
served just a little more than a year, he wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with
2 stars, representing the battles of Iwa Jima and Pelu and the Philippine
Liberation Ribbon with 2 stars representing the battles of Leyte and Luzon.”
Robert A. Gray
“The Kinmundy Express”
Jan. 6, 1944 - "Here’s a nice letter from PFC Robert GRAY, who at
the present time is maneuvering around in Tennessee. He says: I have been going
to write you for some time to let you know I am getting the paper and appreciate
it very much. It is a little difficult to write out here where there isn’t
anything to write on or with. The paper has been getting to me regular enough.
In fact, I get the paper at almost every mail call as we just have mail call on
weekends. The boys I work with like to read the letters the fellows write to
the paper and they like to read the Zatso column too. None of the papers the
other fellows get have any letters from service men in them. We have been on
maneuvers 5 weeks now and about all we do is dig trenches in these rocks and
ride. The roads in the maneuver area are so crooked that all our vehicles have
the batteries run down from blowing their horns at their own tail lights. I
want to let all the people who sent me Christmas greetings know that I
appreciated them very much, but I couldn’t write them all a letter. It is
starting to rain now so I will close."
Feb. 3, 1944 - "PFC Robert GRAY and Miss Margaret BARBEE were
married on Jan. 29, 1944 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Laverne GRAY in Alma. Miss
Norma GARRETT was bridesmaid and Richard GRAY was bestman. Justice of the
Peace, Jim GAMMON, performed the ceremony. Other attendants were Mrs. Lyle
BARBEE, sister-in-law of the bride and Mrs. Jim GAMMON. PFC GRAY is home on a
10 day furlough from Camp Campbell and will return to camp Feb. 4. For the
present, Mrs. GRAY will reside with the former’s parents. Mrs. GRAY is the
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE of this city."
Dec. 24, 1953 – “S/Sgt. Robert GRAY arrived
home Sunday, having received his discharge from the Air Force. He had been in
Japan for 10 months.”
Nov. 18, 1954 - "Cpl. Robert GRAY of Fort Lee, Va. arrived home
Tuesday for a 12-day furlough with his wife, Margaret, and family."
Apr. 7, 1955 - "Sgt. Robert GRAY of Fort Lee, Va. arrived home
Saturday afternoon to spend a 10 day furlough with his wife, Margaret, and
family."
March 1, 1956 – “After reenlisting in the army for 6
years, Specialist First Class Robert A. GRAY (right) of Kinmundy, Ill. was congratulated in
Japan
by Maj. Gen. George B. PEPLOE, deputy chief of staff in the personnel section of
headquarters Army Forces, Far East and Eighth Army. Specialist GRAY, whose
wife, Margaret, and children, live in Kinmundy, is secretary to general staff.
He is a veteran of WWII. The son of Leland L. GRAY, Kinmundy, he graduated in
1942 from Kinmundy Community H.S.". (Photo above was included.)
July 30, 1959 – “SP6 and Mrs. Robert A. GRAY and sons
arrived here July 22 after spending the past 3 years in Japan and Hawaii. They
are visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE and other relatives.”
Aug. 31, 1961 - "SP-6 and Mrs. Robert GRAY and sons, of Fort Bragg, N.C.,
spent the weekend with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE, enroute to Arizona
where they are being transferred. Other Sunday guests in the Barbee home
were Mr. and Mrs. Calvin BARBEE and family of Collinsville."
Carl K. Green
“The Kinmundy Express”
Aug. 6, 1942
-" Carl GREEN, son of Wm. GREEN, residing west of this city, was inducted into
the Army, Aug. 1, in Butte, Montana, and will be stationed in Salt Lake City,
Utah."
March 11, 1943 - "Sgt. Carl GREEN of Salt Lake City
is here spending his furlough with his father, Bill GREEN and family, and other
relatives."
March 18, 1943 - "Sgt. Carl GREEN departed Monday
for his camp in Utah."
March 18, 1943 - "Swift School: A family
dinner was held Sunday for Sgt. Carl GREEN at the Bill GREEN home. Those
present were Chas. FORD and family, Hall FEATHER and wife, Richard FEATHER and
wife, Albert MALINSKY and wife of Kinmundy, Mae, Frank and Fern GREEN, and Tom
JONES. Afternoon callers were Mr. and Mrs. Frank JONES and daughter, Mildred.
Carl left Monday from Salem for camp."
Nov.
4, 1943 - "Swift School: A family dinner was held at the Mae and Frank GREEN
home Sunday in honor of Cpl. Carl GREEN, who is here on his furlough.
Those present to enjoy the dinner were: Bill GREEN and family, Albert MALINSKY
and wife, of Kinmundy; Tom JONES, Jesse JONES and family, Pid WILLIAMS and wife,
Myrtle LANSFORD and children. Afternoon callers were: Hall FEATHER and wife
and Mr. and Mrs. Richard FEATHER and baby of Zion."
March
9, 1944 - "We have been told that our paper is being read by several
of the boys in the service besides our immediate homefolks. And here is a
letter from a lad we do not know, Cpl. DURER of California. He says: As a
friend of Carl GREEN, I am writing to say that we enjoy reading your little
paper, especially interesting do we find the letters of the men in the service.
Though we have not been overseas, our work in the army has been very interesting
and Carl intends to write a letter about it which he hopes you will publish. I
wish that my home town had a paper similar to yours."
June 1, 1944 - "Sgt. Carl GREEN of Calif. is here
visiting his father, Will GREEN and family."
Sept. 27, 1945 - "Swift School: Carl GREEN, son of
Wm. GREEN, arrived home last Thursday to spend a 30 day furlough with home
folks."
March 7, 1946 –“Sgt. Carl GREEN, son of W.L. GREEN, arrived home Sunday after
receiving his discharge at Ft. Douglas,
Salt Lake City, Utah, on Feb.
5th. Sgt. GREEN entered the service July 25, 1942 and spent 18 months in Salt
Lake City and 2 years in California with the Army Services Forces. He wears the
Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater Ribbon and the Victory Ribbon. He
intends to return to school in the near future.
March 21, 1946 - "Sgt. Carl GREEN, son of W.L.
GREEN, who was discharged at Fort Douglas, Salt Lake City, Utah, Feb. 5.
Carl is enjoying his visit here with homefolks." (The photo displayed
accompanied this article.)
(V-257b)
James Green
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 1, 1943 - "Pvt.
James GREEN of Arkansas arrived here yesterday for a visit with his wife,
daughter, and mother."
July 15, 1943 - "James GREEN returned to camp after
spending a 10 day furlough here with his wife and daughter."
Sept. 16, 1943 - "Pfc. James GREEN returned to his
camp Sunday after enjoying a surprise visit here with his wife, baby and
mother."
Dec. 2, 1943 - "Mrs. James GREEN and baby daughter,
Ruth Ann, left Saturday to join Mr. GREEN in Texas, who is in camp there."
Feb. 24, 1944 - "PFC James GREEN of Arkansas arrived
Tuesday morning to spend a week here with his family."
May 25, 1944 - "PFC and Mrs. James GREEN and
daughter, Ruth Ann, departed Tuesday for his camp in Texas. James has been
able to spend the last two weeks here with his mother, Mrs. Josie GREEN, who
passed away last Monday."
July 13, 1944 - "PFC James GREEN returned to his camp in
Texas after spending 2 weeks here with his wife and baby and other relatives and
attending the funeral of his sister."
Sept. 7, 1944 - "Mrs. J.H. DISS and daughter,
Loretta, returned from Baraboo, Wis., where they visited with Mrs. Arthur
GILBERT and children, PFC, and Mrs. James GREEN and daughter."
Sept. 20, 1945 – “Sgt. James GREEN arrived here Monday to spend a 30 day
furlough with his wife and daughter and his sister, Mrs. J.H. DISS and family. Sgt. GREEN entered the service
March 2, 1942 and shipped overseas Oct. 11, 1944,
landing in England. From there he went to Borneville,
France, where he was stationed in a hospital. After the patients had been
transported back to the States, his unit was billed to go direct to the
Southwest Pacific. But with the close of the war with
Japan, his unit left France on Sept. 1, and
headed for the states, landing in New York Sept. 12. Sgt. GREEN wears the Good
Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon. Sgt. and Mrs.
GREEN (nee Anna V. ROHRBOUGH) have a 3 year old daughter, Ruth Ann. After the
expiration of his furlough, he will be sent to Camp Siebert, Ala.” (The photo
was included in this article.)
Sept. 27, 1945 – “Sgt. James GREEN, who arrived home Sept. 16 to visit his
family after spending the past 11 months in England and France. After the
expiration of his 30 day furlough, he will be sent to Camp Siebert, Ala."
Howard Keith Green
“The Kinmundy Express”
July 19, 1945 - "Swift School: Keith GREEN who has
completed his Boot Training at Great Lakes, is spending his first leave with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN."
Oct. 18, 1945 – “Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN
received a letter from their son, Keith, saying he would be leaving the states
for overseas the 22nd of the month.”
Aug. 1, 1946 - "Swift: Keith GREEN, son of Mr. and
Mrs. R.H. GREEN arrived home Monday night after receiving his discharged from
Great Lakes. Welcome home, Keith."
Thomas Leroy Green
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 1, 1944 - "Leroy GREEN has been sent to Great
Lakes Training Station for his Navy Training."
July 13, 1944 - "Swift School: Leroy GREEN is home
with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN. Leroy has just completed his
boot training at Great Lakes, Ill."
Jan. 18, 1945 - "Here’s
a nice letter from Thomas Leroy GREEN, S1 c, who is stationed in Pearl Harbor.
Here is what he says: I think it about time I was writing you and telling you
thanks a million for sending al the boys from good old Kinmundy the paper, while
we are away and don’t know all that’s going on around there, so thanks a lot for
the good work and keep it up. I know all the others that get the paper
appreciate it as much as I do even though the news is old when we get it. I
just hope we can get back and thank you in person instead of trying to write
letters. Letters are O.K. until the censors get in the mood to do a little
clipping out of them, then that is tough. I can’t say very much but will tell
you what I can. Even though I am supposed to be in the Navy, I’m what you would
call a good dry land sailor. I’m assigned to a unit that works on the good
solid terra firma. A medical unit in fact. We haven’t seen any action yet,
but our time is coming. It may confuse you just like it does me but we are
wearing Marine uniforms and attached to the Marines. So I really don’t know
whether to call myself a sailor or Marine. We are having the best weather for
winter I ever saw. It’s weather just about like July in Illinois and every
thing is green and the flowers, well a lot of the women around there would give
a lot to have to have a few of them in their front yard. Also some nice big
insects you call mosquitoes, but to us they are dive bombers. We go swimming
all the time out here in the Pacific to keep cool. I can’t think of any more to
say even though I haven’t said much of anything, so will close for this time
hoping to be back and see all of you some day. Good luck to all of you and
thanks again for the paper. Will be glad to hear from any one who wants to
write me a few lines. Oh yes, one more thing before I close. I read a letter
John JEZEK wrote that he hadn’t seen anyone from home so I will tell you just
how lucky I am. I haven’t been stationed any where yet that I haven’t run
across some one I knew from home. Saw Kenny JACKSON in Texas; my cousin, L.E.
GREEN in Cal.; and now out here I ran across Emmit GARRETT."
Jan. 17, 1946 -
"Swift (from last week): Leroy GREEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN, has also
arrived home from overseas to spend his leave with relatives. Welcome
home, Leroy."
June 13, 1946 –“Leroy GREEN, Yeoman 2c, son of Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN, residing
northwest of Kinmundy, arrived home on June 8, with a discharge from the Navy at
Schomaker, Calif. Separation Center. Leroy entered the Navy on April 25, 1944.
He received his Boot Training at Great Lakes, being dispatched from there to
Corpus Christi, Texas. After 2 months in Texas, he was sent to Port Hueneme,
Calif., where he was attached to the Marine Corps he did quite a bit of
globe-trotting, leaving California, Nov. 10, 1944 on to Pearl Harbor, Iwa Jima,
back to Hawaii, to Japan. Leroy hit the states on Dec. 10, 1945, where he
received a 30 day leave after which he reported back to St. Louis. His next
stop was Schomaker, Calif., then to Fleet Training Center, Treasurer
Island, to Damage Control School on to the
Schomaker, Calif. Separation Center. Leroy was
employed as a telegrapher for the Illinois Central R.R. before entering the
service. As to what he wants to do now, he is undecided.”
Lyle Green
“The Kinmundy Express”:
Feb. 4, 1943 - "Lyle GREEN, son of W.L. (Bill) GREEN
of Kinmundy, and Miss Frances HADDY, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John HADDY of
Malta, Montana, were married in the First Methodist Church of Billings, Montana,
on Jan. 23, 1943. Mr. and Mrs. Chester W. JONES were attendants. After the
ceremony, a reception for close friends and relatives was held at the home of
Mr. and Mrs. Ralph BASSETT. Lyle has served as a civilian pilot for the Army
Air Corps at Mather Field, California for the past 4 months. While there he
received officer’s training and was recommended for his commission as second
lieutenant on Jan. 16, 1943. After Feb. 1, he will be stationed at Luke Field,
Phoenix, Ariz. Mrs. GREEN attended the School of Business of the Billings
Polytechnic Institute, and is now employed as secretary at the Billings Gas
Company. She will join her husband in about a month."
March 18, 1943 - "Promoted: Mr. W.L. GREEN has received
word from his son, Lyle, who is stationed in Arizona, that he received his
commission as Second Lieutenant in the Air Corps on March 8th.
Congratulations to you, Lyle."
Apr. 20, 1944 - "Here's one from Lt. Lyle GREEN of the Army
Air Corps. He is stationed in California and says: "Must write and let you
know that I have again changed my address. I am now at Palm Springs on the
edge of the desert and they say that it gets very hot here during the summer.
I am in the Ferrying Division and taking planes to different places in the
States. I want to thank you for the paper as I enjoy getting it every
week."
June 1, 1944 - "Lt. Lyle GREEN left California
Monday at 3 p.m landed at Scott Field on Tuesday at 5 p.m. on a trip to
Indiana. He spent Tuesday night with his father and family, leaving for Indiana
early Wednesday."
June 22, 1944 - "Lt. Lyle GREEN left Monday for
Missouri where he will take a month of intensive training in the Air Forces."
Oct. 18, 1945 - "(Swift School) Mr. William GREEN
received word from his son, Lyle, Sunday, stating he had landed in the United
States."
Dec. 13, 1945 – “1st Lt. Lyle GREEN, son of W.L. GREEN, residing west of this
city, and wife arrived here Nov. 29, to visit home folks. Lyle entered the
service March 14, 1943, and received his commission as a First Lieut. in the Air
Corps. He shipped overseas Oct. 5, 1944, landing in Scotland. Here he was
assigned to the Ferry Command, flying cargo and passengers. He started home
Oct. 5, 1945, and landed Oct. 13, at Morrison Field, West Palm Beach, Fla. From
there he was sent to Ft. Lewis, Wash., where he received his discharge on Nov.
8.” (This photo accompanied the article.)
Robert Green
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 30, 1918 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men - In
Training Camps - Robert GREEN
March 13, 1919 - Boys in the Service: Drafted Men -
In Training Camps - Robert GREEN
(V-150) Tim Green
"The Kinmundy Express" - Sept. 26, 1991
- "GREEN Finishes Course: Pvt. 1st Class Timothy H. GREEN has graduated
from the telephone central office repairer course at Fort Gordon, Augusta,
Georgia. Students learned to use specialized hand tools and test equipment
for the maintenance of manual/semiautomatic and selected transportable automatic
electronic telephone central office systems. He is the son of Dr. James D.
and Lawonna L. GREEN of 309 E Lyford, Salem, IL. His grandmother is Retah
GREEN of Farina."
William E. Greene
"The
Kinmundy Express"
Sept. 14, 1972 - (From obituary) William E. GREENE
was born in Omega twp. on April 10, 1887, son of Henry and Lou (ALDERSON) GREENE
......He served in the U.S. Army in World War I."
William H. Greene, Jr.
"The
Kinmundy Express"
July 1, 1943 - "In the Service - William H. GREEN,
Jr."
Feb. 8, 1945 - "Here's a short note from PFC W.H. GREENE,
Jr., who is stationed in the Hawaiian Islands. He says: ' I've intended to
write and thank you for a long time. But I just never did get around to
it. Thanks a lot for the paper, it sure helps to keep a fellow up with
what is going on in the old neighborhood. I'm on Oahu in the Hawaiian
Islands. It is nice and warm here. They raise a lot of sugar cane
and pineapples here. The cane is about ready to cut now. Well, Mr.
VALLOW, there is not much to write about, so will close and thanks again for the
paper."
William Lewis "W.L." Green
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Sept. 26, 1918
“Wm. L. GREEN,
who is now somewhere in France will undoubtedly fight with renewed vigor when he
learns of the arrival at his home of a fine baby boy, born Thursday, Sept. 19."
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 16, 1919
“Somewhere in
France”; Dec. 16
Dear Mrs.
Reynolds;
It is with much sorrow that I have today learned of your loss and in this feeble
way, extend you my heartfelt sympathy. As you know, I have known Willie since
early childhood and his life was such that it should be a beacon light blazing a
path straight enough that any of us should be proud to follow it. Your boy was
one against whom I have never heard a word spoken. I have always enjoyed
myself in his company and I assure you that I have many times thought and looked
forward to the time when this terrible war should cease and we would be able to
return home to meet again and spend many more happy hours together. He did his
bit and gave his all in defense of his and our flag. It must be a great blow to
you and Bertha to give him up, but there is a guide for us all which says, “The
Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”
Many mothers in America will yearn for boys who have come over here and will
never return. Only yesterday, a trainload of boys coming from the front was
wrecked in town, killing one and wounding12 others. The loss in this war to
America is great but it is only slight compared with what it is in the countries
over here.
The war is over now and the boys are beginning to start home. There will be
many happy reunions. The reunion you have been planning can never be, but you
must be brave and bear the burden and fight on, for when the burden of life for
you is ended and the summons of “Come” is sounded, you can look across to the
other shore, and see a bright shining star which Willie has placed there to
lead you home. May these few words of sympathy cheer you on your lonely road.
Pvt. W.L. GREEN; 2ND Co. O R.S.D., A.P.O. 741
“The Marion County
Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – March 27, 1919
St. Loubes, France –
February 15
Mrs. T.M. JONES:
Dear Sister,
Will write you
a few lines as I haven’t much to do. I came down here last Sunday. Have been
having some fine weather but it is raining today. We are billeted in private
buildings, 12 miles north of Bordeaux. This is a very beautiful part of
France. They don’t raise much here but grapes. The climate is very
delightful. Fruit trees and flowers are blooming. This week has been like
early oat sowing.
We were sure
glad to get of the mud at Meheen and living here almost changes ones mind about
France. We went thru the delouser at Mehun and stand in the evacuation camp 2
weeks after we were ready to start and we are here now with seemingly good
chances of staying here several weeks, but if it doesn’t rain too much I can
stay here pretty well satisfied. Of course I am anxious to get started home. I
got a letter from Milbourn written January 23, he was well and having a good
time. From the paper I suppose that Pres. Wilson sails for the U.S. today. It
may be some time before peace is established. It is a monstrous problem to
settle. There are many things to take into consideration. England may want
several things but I don’t think they will be unreasonable. The main thing I
don’t like is that the Kaiser is alive and practically free. I will not be
satisfied till he is taken care of. That domineering spirit of the Germans is
not yet broken. I have talked to some prisoners since coming here. They blame
England
for starting the war and say they’ll be ready to fight
France
again in 20 years. So you see peace is not here. They are confident that they
would have won the war by now if the U.S. had stayed out. I would hate to think
that any time in the next generation or two there could be a repetition of all
this suffering. There are many things we can tell when we get home that it
might be best not to write. I hope everybody is well at home. If nothing
happens, I will be home this spring. I am having a good time and am not
worrying about anything. Can’t think of much to write so will close.
Cpl. W.L. GREEN - 17th Ord. Cas Co., Ohio
“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill.
May 29, 1919 - "More Boys Home: In a steady stream,
as rapidly as the transports can ply the ocean, our soldier boys are returning
to their homes and loved ones and among the recent arrivals have been quite a
number of our own boys. The most recent arrivals are: Luzon JOHNSON,
Clarence BARBEE, Clyde FOSTER, Hubert FISHER, Melbourn JONES, Cecil BOUSEMAN,
Francis ROGER, and Eugene BLACK - the two latter being from Patoka and Tonti
respectively. These boys had all seen considerable service on French Lonts
but seem to be little the worse for having passed through the great experience.
With their relatives and friends, the Express joins in extending to them welcome
and wishing for them success in future years Wm. GREEN also returned."
Margaret D. Greenwood
"The
Kinmundy Express"
- Nov. 15, 1984 – “Margaret D. GREENWOOD of Granite City, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Wilbern D. WOODEN, Sr. of Alma, became the bride of Dennis Leroy Meyers on
Aug. 7th in the city hall of St. Louis. The Rev. Alfred M. Milam
officiated the 11:30 ceremony. Immediately following the service the wedding
party traveled to Duff’s Smorgasbord in Alton for luncheon. Attending the
couple was Miss Phyllis MEYERS, a sister of the groom, as maid of honor and
Terry MEYERS of Collinsville, the groom’s brother, who served as best man. The
newly married couple honeymooned in Hannibal, MO and are now residing at 2816
Emzee Street, Granite City. Employed as a nurse’s aide at Colonial Haven
Nursing Home, the bride also completed a two year and nine months tour of duty
with the U.S. Air Force. The groom is a 1971 graduate of Granite City High
School and is self-employed.”
Eugene Phillip Griffin
"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill.
Dec. 26, 1918
"In Memoriam
He stood for freedom and for right; No other thought in
mind; And bravely served his country's call; So brave, so true, so kind."
"Whereas, God in His Infinite wisdom, has again broken the
thread of life and removed from among us, our beloved member and co-laborer,
Eugene P. GRIFFIN, whose life of loving deeds and unassuming character will
forever linger with us. Therefore, be it resolved, that we bow in humble
submission to His Holy will. That we, the F.E. & C.U. of A., deplores its
loss and extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family and that a copy of
this memoriam be spread upon our minutes and a copy be sent to the family and to
each of the county papers.
Respectfully submitted,
L.E. BASOM, J.N. EMBSER, Chas. CARPENTER
Another blue star in Marion County's service flag has been
changed to gold by the transforming power of service. Eugene GRIFFIN, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor GRIFFIN of Brubaker, responded to his country's call last
September and was sent to a camp in Virginia. After a few months training,
he was sent to an embarkation camp but was later returned to Virginia, where he
contracted the influenza, terminating in pneumonia from which he died last
Friday. Although his home was at Brubaker, he was so well known here that
we consider him as one of our "boys".
Phillip Griffin
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 24, 1943 - "Harold SIMMONS and Phillips GRIFFIN
returned Saturday to army duty in Maryland."
March 21, 1946 - "(Pleasant Grove - from last week)
James SIPES and George MEYER arrived home last Tuesday, having received their
discharge from the army at Camp Grant. Phillip GRIFFIN arrived home a few
days earlier. He and George spent several months overseas together."
Raymond A. Griffin
“The Kinmundy Express”
June 11, 1953 – “Raymond GRIFFIN
in Korea: Pvt. Raymond A. GRIFFIN, whose wife,
Pearl, lives in Centralia, was recently assigned to the 25th Infantry
Division in Korea. Now the senior American division on the peninsula, the 25th landed in July 1950, shortly after the
communists attacked the Republic of South Korea. Private GRIFFIN, a mechanic,
entered the army last October and received basic training at Ft. Riley, Kansas
before arriving in Korea on Apr. 26. He is a 1949 graduate of Kinmundy H.S., and
a former employee of Griffin’s Garage in Alma. His parents are Mr. and Mrs.
Lester W. GRIFFIN on Rt. 1, Alma.”
William Edward Griffin
“The Kinmundy Express”
-
June 18, 1998 – “(From his obituary) …. He was born Oct. 24, 1926,
in Foster twp., Marion Co., IL, the son of Lester and Emma (WALKER) GRIFFIN. He
married Evelyn June BAYSINGER on Nov. 27, 1950 in Arkansas, and she survives.
…..He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict……”
Tom Gura
Served from January 1974 - January 1977 - Fort Riley, Kansas
Salem Times-Commoner - Nov. 11, 2008
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