NNews Magazine Published for The Association Membership April, 1.958, Vol. 10, No. 1

PRELUDETO ACTIVATION

Future 95ers Arrivin 9 at Camp Swift, Texas, July, 1942

95th DIVISION

JOURNALApril, 1958 Vol. 10, No. 1 HEADQUARTERS THIRD UNITED STATES ARMY

Office of the Commanding GeneralOfficial publication of the

NINETY-FIFTH INFANTRY A.P.O. 403DIVISION ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 1274 Chicago 90, Illinois 16 April 1945

NATIONAL OFFICERS SUBJECT" Commendation.

President THRU" Commanding General, Ninth U. S. Army,FRED M. PETERSON K/377 APO 339, U S. Army.4915 Birchwood, Skokie, Illinois

First Vice-President TO" Commanding General 95th Infantry Divi-SIDNEY SCHWARTZ B/360FA188 Wallace Street, Freeport, N.Y. vision, APO 95, U. S. Army.

Second Vice-PresidentEDWARD L. RADIK Sv/360FA 1. The achievement of your division and attached5119 w. Oakdale Ave., units, consisting of the 607th Tank Destroyer Battalion,

Chicago, Illinois 778th Tank Battalion, and 547th AAA AW Battalion, inSecretary successfully completing the assigned mission in connec-

WALTER J. LASKOWSKI Med/378 tion with the reduction and capture of the strongly for-467 Highland Ave.,Elmhurst, Illinois tiffed city of Metz by Third U. S. Army was outstanding,

Treasurer both in the combat skill of the individual units corn-THEODORE NELSON Div.Hq.Co. mitted and the control and sound tactical judgment dis-1317 w. 72nd Place, Chicago, Ill. .played by commanders of all echelons.

PAST PRESIDENTS 2_. The fourteen days of continuous attack against.GERALD F. RAMSHAW 1951-52

a strong and aggressive enemy, along a 26-mile front,WALTER J. LASKOWSKI 1952-56 drove irresistibly to the heart of the city of Metz whereFRED M. PETERSON 1956-57 contact was made with American forces advancing from

the south. In the course of this attack you successfully•. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ( 1 ) made four assault crossings of the Moselle River at

LEONARD F. KOCH B/379 its high flood stage, (2) penetrated the line of defend-3520 Madison, Bellwood, Illinois

LESTER WOLF L/378 ing forts, reducing those necessary to accomplish the8032 s. 86th Ct., Justice, Illinois mission, and (3) greatly contributed to the destruction

of an entire reinforced German division. Against theseE. MARINANGELI 320th Med. Bn.

422 Chartres Street, LaSalle, Illinois fortifications which had never before in modern timesALEX BELLINO G/378 fallen by assault, in terrain favorable to the enemy, and

6821 W. Addison St., Chicago, Ill. under almost intolerable weather conditions of rain,STANLEY LEWKOWlCZ Hq./359FA flood, and bitter cold, your officers and men met a most

2619 N. Mozart St., Chicago, Ill. searching combat test which required not only individualRAYMOND R. VLEIGER K/377 courage, skill, endurance, and determination, but also

2751 N. Troy St., Chicago, Illinois sound tactical judgment coupled with an insatiableWILLIAM P. SHARKEY K/377 desire to close with the enemy.

6622 S. campbell Avenue,Chicago, Illinois 3. This achievement has added lustre to the glori-

DELBERT L. SEARS B/320 Engr. OUS history of American arms, for which you and all the10 w. School St., Mt. Prospect, Ill. officers and enlisted personnel of your division and

GEORGE J. BUBINAS F/377 attached units, are highly commended.4613 S. Whipple St., Chicago, Ill.

ADOLPH A. KUTZ Div. Hq./AG G.S. PATTON, JR.R7180 Merchandise Mart, Chicago Lieut. General, U.S. Army,

CLARENCE D. JANKOSKI K/377 Commanding3053 N. Racine Ave., Chicago, Ill.FRANCIS E. SAFARIK Div. Hq./AG

912 N. Ridge,Arlington Heights, Ill.2

Cincinnati'sNetherlandHiltonHotel FormerDivisionArtillery C.O.Retires

SelectedReunionHost-Aug,15,16,17 oeo ourtArmy deputy commanding general for

Special Hotel Rates to Apply for 95'ers Attending Convention reserve forces, ended 35 years of serv-ice last September 30.

CINCINNATI, OHIO--R o b e r t M.Stockelman (Med./378) and Earl E. Retirement'ceremonies were held inRohrer (Med./378), Reunion Co-Chair- set aside for95'ers. However, every- the Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle.one is urged to get his reservationmen, have announced the selection of in early and to request written confir- A West Point graduate, he servedthe Netherland Hilton Hotel for the mation from the hotel. Members are his first tour of duty with the 12thninth ANNUAL REUNION to be held advised to mark their reservation re_ Field Artillery. regiment at Ft. Samon August 15, 16, and 17, 1958. quests that they are planning to at-

The Netherland Hilton is_centrally tend the 95th Infantry Division Asso- Houston.

located in downtown Cincinnati with ciation Reunion. During World War II, h'e was artil-complete facilities best suited to the lery commander of the 95th Infantrytype of Reunion being planned. A Registration into the convention Division, and fought with the unit in400 car garage is located in the same will open on Friday morning, August France and Germany.building. Driving right in under the 15, and continue through the entirehotel, visitors are only a few steps day as well as on Saturday August 16. He taught at West Point and liar-from the elevators servicing the lob- Various tours are being planned for yard, and served with the personnelby. A step from the hotel lobby is Friday and Saturday afternoons. A and administration division in Ger-the center of the Cincinnati shopping buffet supper will be served Friday many.district. Two of the city's largest de- evening with a separate program forpartment stores and'a dozen specialty the ladies. Both functions will in- He was named director, intelligence

clude an entertainment program. A division, European command at Hei-shops are close by. formal business session will follow a delberg, Germany, in 1951.

Special reduced rates have been complimentary coffee hour on Satur- After serving as deputy assistantmade available by the hotel and air day morning. , chief of staff for intelligence in Wash-conditioned rooms will be in ample ington, D.C., and as chief of staff ofsupply and available upon request. The Saturday night dinner dance-- the Eighth Army, he was named com-The rates will be as follows: the chief social function of the Reun- manding general of the 24th Infantry

ion--will be held in the beautiful, all. Division in Korea.SINGLE ROOMS $7.00 modern Pavillion Caprice Room. The

traditional Metz Hour Service is Upon retirement, the McCluresTWIN BEDROOM planned for Sunday morning, moved to Washington, D.C."(2 persons) 12.00

\

No charge for children under 12 TRAINING DAYS AT CAMP BULLIS, TEXASyears of age.

An ample block of rooms has been

GROUP TRAVEL PLAN

BY RAILTO

CINCINNATI PROPOSED

CHICAGO--Members planning useof rail transportation to the Reunionat Cincinnati either from Chicago di-

/ rect or connecting into Chicago from/ points north and west, may be inter-

ested in a group travel plan with re-sulting lower rail fares on a round tripbasis.

Provided that a sufficient numberof the membership is interested in

this plan, arrangements would bemade to reserve a rail coach for theexclusive use of 95'ers. Please writeat once to P. 0. Box 1274, Chicago 90,Illinois if you are interested. If Wereceive sufficient response, a Trans-portation Officer will be assigned tomake the necessary arrangements _Light Machine Gun Emplacement of Co I, 379th Inf. during Maneuvers. L. to R.--with the railroad. P$c. Raymond Powell, Onaway, Mich., and P]c. Peter Gwiazdon, Thorp, Wisc.

3

--Nancy Lee. But if it's at all pos-sible, I'll be there this year.

Messages from KENNETH E. GINNES (E/378) 14 DO YOU KNOW?!members who wish East Side Drive, Concord, New Hamp-

shire. Enclosed is $3.00 for my dues.to express them- I would like to come to the Reunion

selves or give but as I work for the City of Concord,reports on their my time isn't my own. I would like

buddies to know the whereabouts of a guynicknamed "Knobby." I have forgot-ten his full name. Would like to hear

'-'- - from some of the men that were with

me.JOHN KEHN (G/377) 236 South

Minnesota Avenue, Sioux Falls, South HENRY G. ECKERT (F/378) SisterDakota. Enclosed is my check of Bay, Wisconsin. Along with check$5.00. Three dollars is for my 1958 for reinstatement of membership: "Idues and the other two to help the enjoy your publications."GROWTH of the Association. I think MATTHEW T. GANDY (Hq. 1stI have been a continuous member Bn./379) Ashby Road, Ashburnham,since the Association was revived and Mass. Fellows--this is wonderful andI have attended four Reunions. I en- the first I have heard about the As-joy them very much and regret I was sociation. You bet I want to join!not able to attend last year; but be- Thanks!ing a delegate from South Dakota "_othe NationalConvention of the Ameri- RICHARD S. SPARROW (G./378) 8can Legion conflicted at the time. I Wingate Road, Lexington, Mass. Newalways enjoy reading the 95th JOUR- York was a wonderful Reunion!!! SureNAL and I hope the Association keeps was great to see a lot of the old crowdgrowing and the JOURNAL can get again.

to be a monthly magazine again. DONALD A. KINCADE (C./378) 650

VAN B. DOLLAR (E/378) Morning Highland Avenue, Burlington, Wis-Side Drive, Sandersville,Georgia. I consin. I look forward to the enjoy- Lou_s R. Tolive, center standing, othersreceived the 95th JOURNAL for the ment of reading each issue of the 95th unknown, all o_ Co E, 377th Infantry.first time and sure did enjoy reading Division Journal. Congratulations onit. I would like to know how many your selection of the cartoonist for theactive members there are from Corn- last two issues. Henry Hardin waspany E, 378th. I will do my best to one of our principal comics in Co. C.-be present at the next reunion. 378th. He could never shoot a BAR ?SER IDENTIFIES

straight even though he carried onePATRICK J. CAIN (1/378) 178 E. for years, so more power to him on MYSTERY PHOTO-

.Glenwood, Clarksville, Tennessee. his "9-V Memories." Above is photo with caption as itHad the pleasure of a long visit from DEL SEARS (Co. B, 320th Engrs.) appeared in the June, 1957 issue ofCol. Metcalfe last summer here in 10 N. School St., Mt. Prospect, Illinois. the JOURNAL. The following is self-Clarksville, Tenn. I am only 7 miles Many thanks to H. Socea and W. explanatory:from Fort Campbell and would cer- Pokracki for sending the pictures and "tainly welcome a visit from any for- slides of the dance team that I re- "In the JOURNAL of June '57,mer 95th Division men that may be quested in the last Journal. Sure ap- Louis Tolive (Co. E, 377th) had a pic-stationed at the Fort or just passing preciated them. PLEASE NOTE: ALL ture published with the notation "Dothrough. Hope to see lots of Co. 'T'378th Inf. men at the convention this ENGINEERS: An urgent request for You Know?" Since I took the picture,year in Cincinnati. a donation of $5.00 toward a private I believe I can identify the fellows.meeting room for Engineers for the

DONALD DE CAIRE (Med/378) 361 three day convention in Cincinnati. "They are as follows:So. 5th Avenue, Saginaw, Michigan. Donations must be mailed immediate-Enclosed is a check for seven dollars, ly so reservations can .be made. Send "TOP ROW (L to R)--Dick Frieg,I know I am a year behind in my dues money to: Del Sears, 10 N. School Lou Tolive, Dewald.and want to pay for this year too. The Street, Mt. Prospect, Illinois. "BOTTOM ROW (L to R)--McNeely,extra dollar is for one of the Car Em- J. GERARD SITTER (Div. Hq. G-2) "Pop" Goguen, Christopher.blems. We were very sorry that we 5931 West Newport Avenue, Chicagocould not attend last year's Reunion; 34, Illinois. Heard from Gene Wild- "The picture was taken in Waltrop,but we were expecting an increase ley recently. Gene was in the-artil- Germany, during May '45.(the fourth) and my wife could not lery and went on the advance detach-make the trip. But I hope to be at ment to England with me and we had "I am working as a Supervisory En-Cincinnati this year. some wonderful times together. In- gineer at the Westinghouse Air Arm:_ EINER R. BERNTZEN (Hq. Co., 1st cidently, he comes to the reunion Division in Baltimore, Maryland.Bn./378) 5308 Shirley Avenue, Racine, every year. Ted Kuck, Sgt. from G-2,_Wisconsin. I think the Association is Div. Hq., phoned me after 12 years "If any of Co. E--377th Infantry_fine thing and I sure enjoy our get- having stopped in Chicago. He has are in town, be sure to drop by."togethers. ".I was sorry to have missed his own business, advertising, and wasth_ New York Reunion but couldn't soliciting accounts. He is a bachelor RONNIE TODESquite swing _it after buying a home with no immediate prospects in sight. 5615-D Haddon Avenueand the birth of our second daughter (Continued on page 8) Baltimore 7, Maryland

4

A MessageFromOurNational President

In my last column addressed to the

Association membership, I concluded

__ by mentioning the desirability and im-

portance of early forming of plans on

• the part of the membership and

i___O, G -"-'__ _ friends to attend the 9th Annual Re-

union, now definitely scheduled for

August 15, 16 and 17 in Cincinnati,

Ohio. It is apparent, from corre-

spondence received to date, that we

__ do have many "early birds" in our_._c:}___-__ fold already saying: "We'll be there!"

• Such early and enthusiastic responses

THAT POR"FABLE _AT_TUB YOUR, _.,AST-IR.OMb"I-ONACH are a clear indication of a possiblerecord turnout. To those m3mb=_rs

who may have yet deferred their

.._11_ plans, may I repeat our standing invi-_'/_ t tation to rendevous at this "queen

___, _._ ._ /i/2//'_-_ Itff'// _/_|_if among cities"--Cincinnati.

Our membership continues to grow.However, the pace to date has been

__ ___1 !//__.t! slower than we had originally hoped.

% - " One of our bigger problems is the lackof current addresses for many hun-

--_ /f/_///_ _,1 dreds of former 95'ers whom we' have•attempted to contact. It is my feelin_that a large portion of our member-M,ship are continually in contact with

__ _ 3/_7__ l each other primarily through corre-

___ l_(( spondence. If you are maintaining

I such mailing lists, why not send us a\_ _ copy for a checkout against our

records? Your help is the best source

., ]:_0CKQ)UAR_x/ AT _ULk-|S _lJk_)_ _-P _,,O_l'E_-... of our collective strength.

All of you recall the enviable recordset by our Victory Division--success-

ful accomplishment of all assigned

APPOINT CARTOONIST "Hank" Hardinwas formally wel- missionst Let's do it again in thiscomed-to Council ranks at its March 1958 membership drive for THE

TO EXECUTIVE COUNCIL 24, 1958 meeting held at the Knicker- NINETY-FIFTH INFANTRY DIVI-bucker Hotel, Chicago, Illinois. Hank's SION ASSOCIATION.

CHICAGO--President F r e d M. talents are already known for his car- Sincerely yours,

Peterson announced the appointment toon contributions to the JOURNAL. Fred M. Petersonin March of Henry Hardin, 1612 W. He is also an active and enthusiastic

Jackson Blvd., Chicago 12, Illinois, to member of the Chicago Chapter. He President.serve on the Executive Council for the was formerly with Company C,'378th 'remaining 1958 term. Infantry. --. ----_-- --_.,

5

VICTORYDIVISIONARCHIVES( Compiled by George )IlOll COMPANYIN GRAVELOTTE

J. Kortanek--Co. D, 379th Inf.

One of the hardest problems of of- tant. Rough terrain lay between mission but Edwards was criticallyfensive warfare is that of keeping Gravelotte and the forts. First there wounded in the stomach by a riflemanheavy weapons near enough to ad- was an open field that led to a wooded whose bullet exploded his ammunitionvancing rifle troops to give them the draw. A stream lay at the base of a belt. Then Pfc. Charles Welch got hitclose supporting fire for which heavy steep hill on the other side of the in the back and M.edic Pfc. Vincent 4weapons were intended. Many times draw. This hill was also heavily Jennetti was wounded when he at-success or failure of an operation wooded. Between the hilltop and the tempted to give first aid to Welch. thangs in the balance--that is, it may forts lay a vast, open field that had Pfc. Clarence Ordway, 1st squad gun-depend on just how soon the mortar many folds in the ground. The forts ner, maneuvered his way to the rearsquad can get its projectiles accurate- were the outer perimeter of the line and to the Aid Station to bring backly into the air or how soon a machine around Metz. litter bearers and rhedics to adminis-

gun crew can set up its gun into an ter to the wounded.effective position to fire and put forth At 0500 on 14 November, A,'B, anda ceaseless stream of covering fire to D Cos. moved two miles to their jump- Seeing the same situation ccmfront-protect the advancing riflemen. The ing off points to the right of Grave- ing his first platoon! Lt. Mosier led hisheavy weapons company is capable of lotte. The 81 mm mortars, under the men back to the re4r despite the factlittle or no independent action. It leadership of Lt. Albert V. Kinslow, his elbow was shattered by shrapnel.cannot hold the ground indefinitely moved into the town to set up their Liaison could, not b_e_.maintained, andwithout the assistance of riflemen, mortars to be prepared to fire their he had no information concerning A

mission. Co.

'The situation around Gravelotte (7 T/Sgt. (now 1st i lt.) Raymond B.miles west of Metz) called for inde- Lt. Daniel R. Lewandowski had his Smelser then led the 2nd platoon'spendent action within D C., 379th In- second platoon guns to the left of the 2nd section forward into action to en-fantry, and it was efficiently per- first platoon weapons under Lt. Stuart gage the enemy machine guns. Atformed, and despite casualties, their C. Mosier. that time, six Germans came out of

missions were completed. At 0600, the eight machine guns the woods to the front and Pfc. JohnFrom the 8th of November, 1944 to opened up with their harrassing fire W. Lighthall took them back as pris-

the night of the 13th of the same and A and B Cos. jumped off toward oners. Weaving his way toward themonth, the 1st Battalian, 379th Infan- their first objective, the draw. Enemy right flank very carefully, Sgt. Smel-try held positions (formerly defended artillery and machine guns were firing ser then took back seven more enemyby the 10th Armored Division) west of heavily. Executive officer Lt. Gustav who had surrendered after manningthe Moselle River, a few kilometers H. Olson, 2nd Platoon Leader, Lt. 'the machine gun on the right flank.east of the town of Rezonville. Lewandowski, Reconnaissance Sgt. Upon his return to 1st BattalionThroughout the night of the 13th and Jack Alldredge, Instrument Cpl. Tom- Headquarters in Gravelotte with theearly in the morning of the 14th, the my Hinton, and Pfc. Ira W. Maddox, seven prisoners, he learned that theCo. D machine gun and mortar pla- messenger, went ahead to keep liaison correct azimuth was 97 degrees andtoons were making final preparations between B and D Cos. and to give the not 86 degrees as he was told before.for a dawn attack across Bois des Trois machine gun platoons their signal to He also saw Lt. Kinslow, mortar pla-Tetes. The 1st and 2nd platoons were displace forward by sections. But toon leader in Gravelotte, and toldgiven the mission of supporting A and that order was never issued and him to fire his mortars to the flanksB Cos., respectively. The order was nothing was heard from them. Later and to the front of his platoon to elim-to set the machine guns effectively to it was learned that they were sur- inate enemy action. This the mortarprepare to fire harrassing fire at 0600 rounded and captured by the enemy, platoon did with great accuracy, a lotand to render close support to the The attack was to follow an azimuth of credit going to mortar observersrifle companies. Then the machine of 86 degrees. S/Sgts. Oscar Patzer, Roy W. Ravag-guns were to be prepared to displace nie, Hudson D. Owen, and Lt. Kinslow.

forward withone section in direct sup- The 1st platoon's 1st section follow- !port and the other section as break- ing behind Capt. Joseph P. Lydon's S/Sgt. Harris L. Smillie, sectionthrough guns. A Co. on the right flank, could not get leader, assumed command of the 2nd ",

through as the enemy pounded that platoon while Sgt. Smelser went backThe 81 mm mortars were to be set sector with heavy artillery, mortar,, with his prisoners to Gravelotte. He

up in battery in Gravelotte just two machine gun, and rifle fire so Lt. took the correct azimuth and reor-miles northeast of Rezonviile prepared Mosier lead the 1st platoon through ganized the platoon and started histo deliver smoke across all but the the 2nd platoon to move on the left way through the Heinie infestedsouthern part of the sector to be flank and then bear to the right again, woods. Since no liaison was main-

tained between the rifle companiestaken. The 1st section of the 2nd platoon and D Co., Sgt. Smillie, and the 2nd

A Co. was to attack on the right moved forward behind S/Sgt. Gustave platoon had to move cautiously aheadflank of the battalion sector and B Co. Johanson but was held up by machine not knowing where the enemy mightwas to push on the left flank. C Co. gun crossfire. It wag then that Sgt. be. Enemy observation must havewas in reserve ready to move to the Johanson was killed by enemy rifle, been perfect as their 88's were pound-middle of the sector after A Co. fire when he attempted to lead his ing them unmercifully, woundingcrossed the draw on the route of ad- section through the draw. Before hevance to the formal objective--a row died, he told Squad Leader Sgt. Her- Sgt. Quentin W. Lauer and Pfc.of forts approximately 2500 yards dis- shel Edwards to carry on with the (Continued on page 11)

6

INDIANTOWN GAP REVISITED

Kutz's Korner By Adolph (Ack-Ack) KUtZDiv. Hq./A.G. Contributed by

MARSHALL SMELZER, Ser. Co/377

A QUICK LOOK AT THE GAP

The cooperation of every former residing in the Chicago area for the 13 YEARS AFTERmember of the 95th Infantry Division, purpose of contacting prospective In 1957, at the end of a tour ofincluding its original attached organ- members by phone or personally. An- duty in the United States Naval Aca-izations, is an important requisite in other method used for furthering thisthe development of a successful group plan was to reach personnel at distant demy, I had occasion to drive fromsuch as THE NINETY-FIFTH INFAN- parts thru correspondence. These Annapolis, Maryland, to Elmira, New

TRY. DIVISION ASSOCIATION. plans were successful only to a cer- York and took the opportunity to visitAt every Council meeting, the col- tain degree.

lection of dues and the recruitment of Conclusively, it was felt by the Lebanon, Harrisburg, and "the Gap."new members are must discussions operational group that more could be I had not seen any of these placesfor keeping fresh the potentiality of gained by active members contacting since I was transferred out of the Di-moulding out an energetic and large some one closely associated with themorganization. The enthusiasm and at- in the military service. Will you try vision to a desk job in Washington ontentiveness shown by the Officers and this suggestion just once and see how the eve of the POE alert in 1944 (IExecutive Council has been excellent; it works out? It seems that it would later went to the ETO as a casual).since the greater part of this opera- not be too great a problem to at leasttional group has attended all meet- corral one member. This would help As for the cities I could see noings regardless of weather conditions, immensely in achieving our goal todistances and inconveniences to their ultimately double our membership, change except that twelve years offamily ties. If a similar attitude and Don't hesitate! Sit down now! And prosperity has made them a .little

write your closest buddies a welcome shinier and better painted.interest were followed by all person-nel eligible for membership, the letter to join THE NINETY-FIFTHgrowth of the Association would be IN F A N T R Y DIVISION ASSOCIA- The Gap reverted to its old statusvery distinctive. TIONIAny suggestions that you may have of a summer training-camp for the

Several means have been employed to improve the membership will be Pennsylvania National Guard. It was

in directly or indirectly contacting gladly accepted and used to the fullest practically empty but pretty well pre-prospective members. At one meet- extent--for the benefit of THE NINE-ing, each Officer and Executive Coun- TY-FIFTH INFANTRY DIVISION AS- served and it was easy to find one'scil member was handeda list of 95ers SOCIATION! way about. The old movie-houses

have fallen into disrepair. The suck-er-traps at the entrance, which used

to sell souvenirs and junk-jewelry,

are in a state of decay. The shipmock-ups which were used to train-

the Transportation Corps men have/ been removed. Otherwise the place

was practically unchanged.

The road from Lebanon which was

practically a country road when we

were there ispretty thoroughly built-up and suburbanized.

The Gap is maintained by a smallpermanent party of dogfaces but

f- whether they were national or statetroops I did not inquire. (I am get-ting too old to go around G-2-ing anAmerican military-installation, nordid I take any pictures.) The Colonelcommandant appears to live inColonel Gaillard's old house onthehill overlooking the 377th area; theenlisted men are quartered in the low,northwestern corner of the area.

I had no trouble finding my bar-racks from which I could see all the

Tanks 05 the 95th Infantry Division _iovi_g through the streets of Soest, Germany, way across to something else un-on their way south. April, 1945. changed--that old notch in the ridge.

7

_[_I_i_[_]_[__i_i__[_i_[__]_]_u_[_ MAiL BOX

i LOCAL CHAPTER NEWS_ Induced him to stay overnight. We

_iiiiiiii_i_IiiiIii_iiiii1_i_ii_nEniisiji1Nn_]nimmim_iHiiiiimiiiiiIiiimHi_iiii_i_iiiHi]i_iIiiiiiHH_ililiiiiiii_iiii_iiiiiliiiii_iiii]_iii_iiiiiHliii_i_iiiiiiliiH_]IiiIii]i_iiiiimH]_Hiiii]iniiIiii_had a little party for him on his onenight stay in Chicago. Phoned Dave

CHICAGO CHAPTER NEW YORK CHAPTER Landis, another G-2er and he and hiswife came over to entertain Ted. Dave

OFFICERS ELECTED ELECTS OFFICERS is teaching painting at the Art Insti-tute.

CHICAGO--Jan. 24: The first 1958 NEW YORK--Feb. 12: T1/e New

meeting of the Chicago Chapter of York Chapter of the 95th Infantry CHAS. B.'BAILEY (Hq. & Hq. Co./The 95th Infantry Division Associa- Division Association this evening held Div. Hq.) 1814 N. Palmetto, San An-tion was held this evening. In spite its first meeting of the current year, tonio, Texas. Lt. Col. Sylvester wasof cold weather and snow, a goodly gathering at the Henry Hudson Hotel, in the office (Post Finance and Ac-

counting Office, Ft. Sam Houston,number of 95ers turned up at the New York. Texas) today and as he mentioned theKnickerbocker Hotel, Chicago. Officers elected for the 1958 term fact he helped activate the 378th

Officers elected for the 1958 term were: Richard Perlish (I/377), Presi- Regiment at Camp Swift, Texas, inJuly 1942, I showed him the latestwere: Fred M. Peterson (K/377), dent; Sidney Schwartz (B/260FA), copy of the Division Journal. HePresident; Walter Laskowski (Med/ Vice-President; Joseph M. Roach (H/ wanted to join the Association right

•378), 1st Vice-President; Ted Nelson 377), Secretary; Thomas C r a i g away and asked for the Membership(Div. Hq./Hq. Co.), 2nd Vice-Presi- (B/358FA), Treasurer. Application on the back page. He waswith the 95th all the way to Campdent; John Hein (795th Ord. Co.), Plans were discussed for recruit- Shelby, Miss. I showed him the listTreasurer; Edward Radik (Sv./360 ment of additional members to the of new members the 378th picked upFA), Secretary. New York Chapter, organized in 1957. at• the New York Convention. He

A short informal meeting was held Association membership in the New stated he was from Conn. so theremust be many in the 378th Regimentwith several ideas for the next meet- York area interested in joining this who'll remember him.

ing discussed. Following adjourn- Chapter are advised to communicate 'ment, refreshments were served ar- with Joseph M. Roach, Chapter Secre- CLAUDE H. BUTLER, MD. (Div.Hq,/Surg. Office) Retreat State Hos-ranged by George Bubinas (F/377), tary, 40-02 Vernon Blvd., Long Island pital, Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania.who is also Assistant General Man- City 1, New York. The enclosed check covers dues for

ager at the hotel. 1958, donation of $2.00, and a dona-cago Area 95ers interested are to di- tion of $5.00 to the memory of: Lt.

The Chapter plans to hold two or rect their inquiries to Ed Radik, Sec- Col. Patrick H. Hand, M.C., formerDivision Surgeon, who died, age 48,

three additional meetings thru the re- retary, 5119 W. Oakdale Avenue, Chi- suddenly July 23, 1957 while on vaca-mainder of this calendar year. Chi- cago, Illinois. tion. Survivors are his wife and two

sons. Sorry to miss the last Reunionin New York; but professional duties

ANOTHER MYSTERY PHOTO took me to Cleveland at that time.

T/SGT. FRANK DURAN, SR. (B/379) 4083rd Air Police Squadron, APO23, New York, New York. Receivedmy current membership card. Thanks.

• Since my last correspondence to you,I have been transferred up here toThule, Greenland. The weather is alittle cooler than I re.member with the95th in Europe but living conditionsmake up for the low temperature.Metz didn't hav_ the luxuries of thisplace, by a long shot (air hurst). I amserving as a First Sergeant up hereand am getting the opportunity to un-derstand some of the trials and trib-ulations of M/Sgt. Johnson (First Shirtof B Co., 379 Reg.). Looking forwardto the next issue of the JOURNAL.

FRANCIS MURACO (B/378) No. 43Irving Street, Winchester, Mass.Needs to hear from as many formerCompany B, 378th Infantry men aspossible who served with him over-seas as he requires information re-garding his tour of duty and hospital-

Can you help identity these 95ers? The photo is Trom our history files but carries ization in connection with a disabilityno explanation, compensation claim.

8

ERNESTC.KLEIN H/37773A zinc I haveneverbeentoaReunion95er ELECTEDCOMDR.Sicily Drive, Fort Bragg, North Caro- yet, but my plans now are to go tolina. Have moved since the Conven- "the one this year. I was in Co. K,tion. Thanks for the publicity in the 377th. I joined the Company in Metz. OF STATE DEPT. OFDecember JOURNAL. And thanks for I am married, have two children, one

the promotion: the picture credit son and one daughter. I am now the F-A VETERANSmakes me a "Captain"; but I'm still a , John Deere Dealer in ShelbyviUe, andpeace time 1st Lt. Chaplain. I was would appreciate hearing from some

listed as a new member, again making of my buddies in Company K. Hope . Victor Leger, formerly with Com-me Captain but my unit is Company to see all of you in Cincinnati in Au--H or How. The new designation for gust. pany A, 320th Engineers Bn. 95th In-

H is Hotel. Actually I have member- H.W. OESTREICH (G/378) 600 West - fantry Division, was elected Comman-ship card No. 29, as a member in good 3rd Street, Aberdeen, Washington. En- der of the Department of Massachu-standing until June 1, 1948, whenWilbur Heekin and Coles A..Doty, Jr. closed find a check for $3.00 entitling setts at its annual convention whichme to membership in the 95th Infan- was held in Fall River. Victor, also awere in the saddle, try Division Association. Am anxious member of the 95th Infantry Division

BILLY J. POUNDS (Hq. Btry. Div. to hear from some of the buddies. Association, resides at 416 MechanicArtly) 37 N. Hazelwood Avenue, Does Lt. Sparrow belong? St., Leominster, Mass.Youngstown 9, Ohio. We had a very ED GUINANE (Med/378) 7933 S.good time in New York and every Manistee, Chicago, Illinois. Attachedyear it gets better. We will be there is my check for $3.00 covering mem-in Cincinnati. We have "about five bership fee for Raymond E. Deuly.95th fellows here So far and looking Ray was in Co. K, 379th. I haveforward to picking up more so we can known this fellow for three or fourstart a Chapter around the Youngs- years, and just found-out last Satur-town District. Hope to be in Cincin- day that he was in the 95th Division.nati with more 95th boys. He was doing some work on my car,

DONALD W. DRAPER (Sv/378), and noticed the decal in the back win-503 McClellan Avenue, Tama, Iowa. dow. Consequently, he asked that IFind enclosed $3.00 for dues. The get him enrolled immediately. Said8th Reunion sounded like a success, he heard about the Reunion last timeI, for one, appreciate the good work it was in Chicago, but not until it wasyou fellows are doing. Am sending too late. Wants to be advised from$1.00 fora couple copies of the JOUR- now on.NAL, hoping I can sell two more 95ers ELROY C. BECHER, (H/379) 1011/2---Jim Black, Tama, Iowa; Leo Nelson, E. Mill Street, Plymouth, Wisconsin.Dunlap, Iowa. I received my membershipcard from

HARRY E. PHILLIPS (G/377) 1405 you several days ago. Thanks a lot.Cannon Blvd., ShelbyviUe, Tennessee. You asked if I had any former 95ersEficlosed is my check for 1958. I en- on my mailing list. I have a few, andjoy reading very much the 95th maga- hope they help you out on the mem-bership drive.

CARL FERRIER (C/320 Engr.) 1614The Long and The w. Saratoga, Ferndale 20, Michigan.

My wife, our son, Jim, and I spent a VICTOR LEGERShort of It few days with Adam Morlock in July.

It was nice seeing Buck after 12 years.He has a nice farm, and it was a real " Commander Leger has been a mem-vacation for us, to Pettibone, North ber of the Franco American War Vet:Dakota. We are maintaining a mail- erans since 1946 and has been active

ing list with some of the 320th Engr. in both post and state having heldBn., Co. C, and a copy of it is enclosed.

JOHN A. KENNEDY (95 Sig.) Ran- various office and appointments. Incho Chula Vista, Concan, Texas. 1952 he was elected commander ofThanks for the last April JOURNALS. Post 13 and was re-elected in 1953 andMistake--I meant to say four "grand- 1954, being the first commander ofchildren" and not four "children." Post 13 to serve three consecutiveThe reason we thank you is, as a re- terms as commander. At present hesult of this, we heard from several of is quartermaster of Post 13.the boys we hadn't heard from in sev-

eral years. We will make more errors Commander Leger is married to theand get more letters! The enclosedlistings are the only ones I have cor- former Olive Beaudette; they haverect addresses on now, for use in your two children: A graduate of St. Fran-current membership drive campaign, cis Parochial School in Fitchburg andI hear from these boys once a year. a graduate of Fitchburg High School,

JOSEPH CORTVRIENDT (Hq/378) he entered the service in 1942 serving905 S. Wells, Mishawaka, Indiana. with the 320th Combat Engineers at-Otir sincere thanks to member

L. to R.--Bradley (6"7") and Neuman Cortvriendt who sent us a list of 19 tached to the 95th Infantry Division.(5'2") o_ 360 FA Bn at Geilenkirchen, former 95ers with their current ad- He served overseas with that organi-

Germany; April, 1945. dresses in response to: our query, zation.9

377th AT SOEST "D" COMPANY AT Meanwhile the 1st platoon was notidle. Platoon Leader Lt. Mosier was

GRAVELOTTE taken back to the aid station in Grave-lotte and T/Sgt. Tommy E. Barker

(Continued from page 6) was in command. He set out withSgt. Robert R. Skamoski to obtain in-

Thomas N. McVetty. Discovering a formation from the company com-Heinie communication wire, Sgt. mander in Gravelotte but at that timeSmillie crawled his way forward with Capt. Robert H. Ivey was on a recon-Sgts. Leo J. Noel and William W. Buck- naisance trying to contact the 1st pla-man following at his heels. A con- toon. Barker then decided to try tocussion grenade landed very close to lead his men forward again but wasthe three of them. Sgt. Smillie then met by C Co. who were withdrawingheaved a hand grenade in the direc- to" the rear after their forward pla-tion he sensed was right and no more toon was shot up and driven back. Itwas heard from the Jerries in that was then that the 1st platoon receivedvicinity, orders from Capt. Ivey to return to

Gravelotte with C Co. and to be pre-On the way back from the town, pared for an attack the next morning.

Sgt. Smelser, Transport Cpl. Otis R. The mortar platoon, especially the 1stSchatzer, and his runner, Pfc. David section, fired throughout the day.F. Woods reconnoitered the area for Snow fell all that night and the tern-ammunition and supplies for the pla- perature fell with it. By morning,toon. Then they made their way care- the ground was covered with snow.fully down through the draw to afirebreak next to the woods from At 0900 on the next morning, thewhere they heard the voices of the 15th, C Co. under Capt. Kenneth R.men in the 2nd platoon. Upon reor- Carter and D Cos. 1st platoon and' theganization, Pfcs. Carl Eskridge, John 3rd section of the mortar platoonW. Lighthall and Lloyd C. Martin jumped off toward the draw in theirwere left behind to take the wounded effort to contact Capt. Angelo Paci-up the draw near the town where they otti's B Co. at Forts North and Southcould be taken care of properly by Jussy. As soon as they hit the open

German prisoners march out o3 their the medics, field to the right of Gravelotte, enemybarracks at Soest, Germany, guarded by artillery, mortar and rifle fire became

troops of the Victory Division. To continue on their azimuth, the heavy on their left flank. Sgt. Barkerplatoon had to cross a stream and became a casualty, his elbow beingclimb up a steep, muddy hill. This shattered by shrapnel. S/Sgt. Melvinwas done with great difficulty since C. Nehm then became the third manenemy mortar and artillery fire har- to lead the platoon in two days.

[_GOT YOURs _ assed them and their heavy loadswere hard to manage up the slippery Enemy shells gouged black powder

'1",_J pathways. Men fell down as many as craters in the clear snow as C Cos.

twenty times before the top of the hill lead scouts hit the draw. As the rifle-was reached. A huge open stretch of men of C Co. hit the top of the draw,land lay between them and the forts. Heinie machine guns and rife fireAware of possible enemy fire through opened up from across the valley.this area, Sgt. Smelser, Smillie, and Sgt. Nehm ordered his machine gunsBuckman crossed first and then Smel- forward to counter the heavy machineser ordered the rest forward as not a gun fire of the enemy. They set upshot was fired. Fort North Jussy was near the top of the draw and deliveredreached and they rejoined B. Co. there accurate fire upon their targets. Twoat 1500. Heinie mortar crews kept firing their

mortars to try to eliminate our ma-B Co. arrived there just after 1000 chine guns but Lt. Kinslow issued fire

and had a comparatively easy time orders to Mortar Platoon Sgt. Harleyreaching their final objectives and R. Sweetman in Gravelotte by phonetook 32 Heinies as prisoners in Forts They knocked out one mortar positionNorth and South Jussy. The two forts and the other crew came in to sur- ""were about 600 yards apart, render in Gravelotte. Pfc. Marion F.

Immediately the machine guns Cotton, a company baker who volun-were set up in Key positions to teered to help carry ammunition forstrengthen the defense against a pos- the platoon, was killed by rifle fire assible counterattack. Eskridge, Light- he was firing his M-1.hall and Martin returned to the pla-toon after evacuting the two wound- Machine gun ammunition was run-

_ ed men from the draw and out of ning low so Instrument Cpl. Elmer W.danger. Lowman was sent back to Gravelotte

RENEW YO.UR MElO

with Pvts. Waltdr L. Kline, John Gib- was polluted and halazone tablets MEMBERSbons, and Anthony Gentile to replen- were necessary for purification. Each NEWish the dwindling supply. The 3rd man had less than one meal for eachsection of 81 mm mortars also fired day they held the forts. The days and (The Association Membership wel-several rounds before the attack nights were bitterly cold and the comes the following 95'ers who be-progressed further. As Lt. Kinslow guards suffered much on their two came members between Septemberwas leading on, he heard a number hour watches. The men did not getof Heinies firing their "burp" guns much sleep as they had to stand guard 1.957 and April 1958.)on the right flank and immediately in quick rotation. The only coversfigured it to be a counterattack. Lt. they had on their hard, wooden make- 377ih INFANTRY REGIMENTCol. Tobias R. Philbin, 1st Battalion shift bunks was their over coats or Henry Bailey CO ACommander, gave him _3ermission to field jackets if they had them. The 109 Lee Avenuehave his two mortar sections in Grave- interior of the forts was damp and Chicamauga, Georgialotte fire their 81's to break up the cold arid fires were going at all hours Edward J. Welch, Jr. Co Bcounterattack. They fired with such of the day and night. The smoke 222 Westfield Avenueskill that the shells were dropping on- would make the men gasp for fresh Ansonia, Connecticutly 50 yards away on their right flank air. To keep warm and dry was dif- George B. Kozlak Co E470 Prospect Streetand were taking their heavy toll. Thus ficult. Some of the water they drank Torrington, Connecticutthe counterattack was repulsed. A was melted snow obtained from the P.P. (Pinky) Goldner Co F10t of the credit can be given to Lt. outside of the forts and the men were 29 Eaton RoadKinslow for his accurate calculations continuously thirsty and hungry. Hicksville, New Yorkand to T/Sgt. Sweetman's direction of Edward M. Hoffman, Jr. Co Fthe firing of the 81's. A and B Cos. took St. Ruffine to the 3338 Princeton Avenue .

northeast and Peltry, nearby, where Philadelphia 49, Pennsylvania

After reaching the woods on top of they took many prisoners from a Ger- Arthur S. Dickson ' " Co Gthe steep hill across the draw, they man barracks. 599 Front StreetHempstead, New Yorkproceeded to cross the field that led On the afternoon of the 19th, acom- Francis W. Allaman Co Kto the line of forts. The field was pany of Free French Infantrymen Shippenville, Pennsylvaniazeroed in for German artillery, mor- moved in from the rear of the forts Charles F. Trommetter Co Ktars, machine gun and rifle fire. By much to the surprise of C and D Cos. 1963 W. Marketthe time they reached Forts North and took the 32 prisoners back to Pottsville, Pennsylvania -and South Jussy, many casualties Gravelotte with them. Carl Kermit Beagle Co Lwere suffered and several men were R.D. 2missing. Soon after, the Heinies com- Several attempt were made to bring Gansevoort, New Yorkpletely surrounded the forts by cut- up supplies to the forts by vehiclesting off the rear from both flanks, but the farthest they could get was to 378ih INFANTRY REGIMENT

the 2nd and 3rd battalions.The four men who were sent back Floyd C. Green Co B

for more machine gun ammunition Capt. Ivey rounded "up a select LaBelle, MissouriVincent Leota Co Cwere forced to remain in Gravelotte group of D Co. men and organized a 10 Neptune Terraceand the 1st platoon was practically out reconnaisance patrol to attempt to Brooklyn 24, New Yorkof machine gun ammunition upon study the terrain between St. Ruffine C.E. Frazier Co Dtheir arrival at the forts. The two and the forts and to locate the exact Rt. 2, Box 650mortar sections that. remained in positions of the enemy. 'In the'patrol Woodland, CaliforniaGravelotte became part of a task with Capt. Ivey were S/Sgts. Douglas Isidore J. LePine Co Dforce to guard the rear areas of the F. Jones, Robert C. Wells, Sylvester 1620 Monroe Street3rd Battalion on 1st Battalion's left C. Sperl, Oscar Patzer, Sgts. Mach E. Two Rivers, Wisconsinflank. Green, Thomas H. Suddarth, and Pvt. Kenneth E. Ginnis Co E

William F. Janik. 14 East Side DriveOn the 18th of November, A and B Concord .2, New Hampshire

Cos. left Forts North and South Jussy On the 20th, liaison planes, marked Robert R. Buchter Co Funder cover of darkness. Lt. Col. with Red Crosses, removed the pa- 441 New StreetPhilbin, Capt. Ivey and S/Sgt. (now .tients from the forts, a very notable Lebanon, Pennsylvania1st Lt.) Jones went with them. C Co. feat. Major Eugene E. Cleaver, Regi- H.w. Oestreich Co G

_. with 1st and 2nd platoons of D Co. mental Surgeon, and T/5 Jerome 600 w. Third StreetAberdeen, Washingtonplus the 3rd section of mortars were Goldberg, a B Co. medic, did a re- Philip T. Zito Co H

r left to hold the two forts. They also markable job in helping to evacuate 11726 Farrington Avenuehad to care for 30 wounded and sick the wounded and sick into the planes Cleveland 5, Ohio

"_ and to guard 32 prisoners. The forts and back to a field hospital. John G. Davis Co K

were completely surrounded by the The D Co. motor convoy rolled "in- 927 Westview AvenueDover, Delawareenemy and no routes of evacuation or to St. Ruffine that day. Capt. Ivey John Bumball Cn Cosupply were available, again led his reconnaisance patrol 22 Washington Avenue

over the same ground to make them- Bernardsville, New Jerseyt, Food, ammunition and medical sup- selves thoroughly familiar with the Don W. Darlage Hq 1 Bn

plies dropped from liaison planes and terrain leading to the forts. - Cortland, Indianawater was obtained from a seepage John Dolak Hq 2 Bnhole in Fort North Jussy. The water (To be continued) 541 East Grant

Alliance, OhioZino Bove Sv Co

ERSHIP TODAY 3503 Carfax AvenueM B " Long Beach 8, CaliforniaManuel D. Correira Sv Co14 Castle Street

Plymouth, Massachusetts

11

95th INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION S.c. 34.66, P.L & R.

P. O. BOX 1274 u.s. POSTAGEPAID

CHICAGO 90, ILLINOIS P_RM. NO. 84ELMHURST, ILLINOIS

Form 354"/ requested "

Forwarding and Return Postage Guaranteed . . d ; _ •. . . ..... .... ::.,

Eric Johnson Sv Co John GeresY, Jr. Co K 920th FIELD ARTILLERY BATTALIONSmith Street 215 E. Bridge Street Captain Warren R. Riggin Hq Btry

Georgetown, Connecticut Plainwell, Michigan U.S. Army GarrisonJohn H. Keller, Sr. Sv Co John A. Gouletfis AT Co Fort Stewart, Georgia

406 Ridge Street 7515 N. Cicero AvenueCharlottesville, Virginia Skokie, Illinois 9Sth RECONNAISSANCE TROOPS

Alphonse Pascarella Sv Co A. James Barker AT Co Joseph Balong56 Linley Road Ocean Blvd• and Lawrie Road 735 N. Sherman Street

Trumbull, Connecticut Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey Aurora, Illinois

379th INFANTRY REGIMENT Peter Tanous Hq 3 Bn 95th SIGNAL COMPANYCharles M. Kasnias Co A 730 W. Roses Road . John E. Lambert

11712 St. Clair Avenue San Gabriel, California New Windsor, Maryland• Cleveland 8, Ohio Matthew T. Gandy Hq 1 BnLouis M. Centofanti Co C Ashby Road, RFD Box 125 • 3201h ENGINEERS BATTALION

2001 Main Street Ashburnh_m, Massachusetts Frank C. Deming Co ANiagara Falls, New York . •

Gail R: DeVore Co C A1 Dumphy Sv Co 558 Oak Drive Court1902 Francis Avenue 337 Franklin Street Mobile, Alabama

Des Moines 14, Iowa Stevens Point, Wisconsin Victor W. Leger Co A416 Mechanic StreetEdward Heubec Co E Leominster, Massachusetts

5245 S. Troy Street 360th FIELD ARTILLERY BATTALION Abe (Francis) Oamzon Co BChicago, Illinois Casmir A. Wolak • Btry B 37-05--79th Street

Leslie A. Leasure Co F 7306 Mansfield Street , Jackson Heights 72, New York101 Argonne Avenue Detroit 28, Michigan Arnold R. Plass Co B

Stanton, DelawareEdward Zajac Co F Biaggio J. Scollo . Btry C 103 Ridgewood Road

4316 S. Whipple Street 126LeSoir Avenue • Clifton, New JerseyChicago, Illinois Floral Park, New York Richard A. Brown Med net

Milledge H. Brower Co K Henry J. Brasser Sv Btry 25 Clairidge Court784 Capitol Avenue, S.E. 105 Brookes Road Montclair, New Jersey

Atlanta 15, Georgia Babylon, Long island, New York 547ih AAA (AW) BATTALIONRaymond E. Deuly Co K Howard L. Rose . Sv Bt'ry Harold B. Palmer Btry D

7848 Luella Avenue 8823 Lanier Drive Route No. 1Chicago, Illinois Silver Spring, Maryland ' :: New London, North Carolina

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

95th INFANTRY DIVISION ASS'N. " : Do Not Write in This Box

P.O. Box 1274 [] New Member Card No.

Chicago 90, Illinois [] Renewal Amount

[] Reinstatement Date Rec'd

Here are $3.00, my annual membership• dues for calendar years 1957 FI 1958 J--J

NAME _Unit ServedPlease Print (Last) (First) (Middle) • .-__ ' (Co. or Btry.)

J

Address .... _-...... - - Army Serial No ........

City , __.... __ Zone ........ State .....

Make Remittance Payable To : "95th INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION Signature_ ;

Plan to attend the 9th Annual Reunion in Cincinnati, Ohio August 15, 16 and 17, 1958............................................................................. T ...............................................