William Roscoe RicksBorn: 26 September 1904

Prentiss County, MississippiHeight: 5 feet, 6 1/2 inches

Weight: 125, Eyes: Blue, Hair: D. Brown

Service Company, 22nd Infantry RegimentAbstracted and transcribed by

Donald Milton8 Ricks (William R.7, William E.6, John5, Ransom4, John3, Edward2, Jonas1)

Figure 1: L-R: “Luke Chucski”, written on back of photo, with William Roscoe Ricks, Private, circa 1928, Service Company, 22nd Infantry,

United States Army

Figure 2: Enlisted rank and insignia, 1920—1942

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5 August 1926 — 9 November 1929:

William Roscoe Ricks first enlisted in the United States Army at Camp McClellan, Alabama, on 5 August 1926, by 1Lt D. E. Morgan, Infantry (Tanks), assigned to Service Company, 22nd Infantry, for a term of three years. Service number: 6353713. The enlistment record shows his address as R. F. D #3, Albany, Alabama [address of his father, William E. Ricks]. Born: September 26, 1904 (age 21 years and 10 months), Prentiss County, Mississippi, and had an operation for appendicitis on April 30, 1926. Descriptive sheet data: Eyes: Blue, Hair: Dark Brown, Complexion: Ruddy, Height: 66 1/4 inches, Weight: 119 pounds. Physical examination signed by Captain Barton W. Johnson, Medical Corps, August 5, 1926.

Figure 3: Distinctive Unit Insignia, 22nd Infantry Regiment

3 Mar—12 May 1927: In civilian custody (D & D), Atlanta, Ga. (lost 40 days).

23 March 1927: Service Company, 22nd Inf., Ft. McPherson, Ga., Co H, RSO # 45, last paid by F. J. Baker, Major, Finance Department. Efficiency rating: Average. Character: Good, John Weckerling, 1st Lt, 22d Inf. Per Adj.

3 April 1927—12 May 1927:Arrested by Civilian authorities, Atlanta, Ga., (D & D).

24 Sep 1927: Board of Officers convened at Ft. McPherson to investigate injuries sustained by Private William R. Ricks, 6353713, Service Company, 22nd Infantry, Ft. McPherson, Georgia, on or about 4 September 1927. Findings: That Private Ricks was injured in a fistfight with Private George R. Patterson, R-1326268, Service Company, 22nd Infantry. Private Ricks delivered the only blow, which broke his hand. Typewritten statements provided by [younger brother] Oscar E. Ricks, 635239, Private, 22nd Infantry; Private Patterson, and Private Ricks. Injuries to Private Ricks consisted of a fracture, simple, 2nd meta carpel rt. The medical doctor who attended Private Ricks, Major N. A. Myll, M. C., testified the injury will not result in a permanent disability. Soldier was on full duty status, witnessed by Furman V. Hardee, Captain, 22nd Infantry, Commanding. Recorder: M. W. Peck, 2nd Lt., 22nd Infantry. The board recommended that the injuries be considered in the line of duty. Document signed by M. C. Keeler, Captain, MC., and Roy E. Turrentine, 1st Lt., 8th Brigade, board member.

30 Sep 1927: Headquarters, Ft. McPherson, Georgia. The above recommendations were disapproved by H. O. Williams, Brigadier General, USA, Commanding.

31 October 1927: The Board of 24 September reconvened in a supplementary proceeding and recommended that the injuries sustained by Private Ricks be considered not in the line of duty. General H. O. Williams approved the recommendation.

Figure 4: L-R, Oscar Edward Ricks (served with 22nd Infantry), Lola Dell Ricks (sister), and William R. Ricks, Private (1927-28)

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7 Nov 1927: Summary Courts-martial: par 1, SO # 127, Hq., 22nd Infantry (Charge: exposure to VD): John Weckerling, 1st Lt., 22nd Infantry. Other officers on affidavits: David E. Barnett, Capt., 22nd Inf., Adjutant; Trial referred to: H. J. Keeley, Major, 22nd Inf.; George F. Baltzell, Col, 22nd Inf. (reviewing authority). Rate of pay of soldier: $21 per month.

28 Dec 1927: To forfeit $14 of pay per SO# 46, dated 10 Nov 1927. Due soldier $5 personal expenses 17 May 1926 (pre-enlistment).

3 Nov 1927 — 29 Dec 1927: Unable to perform duties: (lost 57 days).

10 May 1928: Returned to Command: Co H, 22d Inf., Ft. McPherson, Ga., signed J. M. Clarke, Capt., QMC. Efficiency Rating: Average; Character: Very Good, Thomas E. Gray, Capt., 22d Infantry, Pers. Adjutant

26 June 1928 — 16 October 1928: Private 6th Class, O# 13.

16 Oct 1928: Transferred to QMC, Ft. McPherson, GA, SO #207.

16 Oct 1928: Disrated Private Specialist 6 Class SO#207, Hq Ft McPherson, Ga..

23 Nov 1928: Private Specialist 6th Class, DO# 11.

16 July 1929: Disrated Specialist 6th Class, DO #16.

20 July 1929: Transferred to Service Co., 22d Infantry.

23 July 1929: Hq, Ft McPherson, Ga., trans via SO# 116 to Co, 22nd Inf. Rating: Satisfactory; Character: Excellent, unreadable signature.

28 July 1929: Private, Order #14.

11 Aug 1929—20 Aug 1929: Furlough. Reported 19 Aug 1929.

14 Aug 1929: Private 1st Class, Order #13.

28 Aug 1929: Private Specialist 5th Class, O#14.

4 Sept 1929: Hq., 22nd Infantry, Ft McPherson, to CO, 3rd Bn, 22nd Inf., Ft. Oglethorpe, Ga., detached service, par. 10, SO# 149. Efficiency Rating: Satisfactory; Character: Excellent, A. J. Monger, 1st Lt., 22nd Infantry.

9 Nov 1929: Hq., 3d Bn., 22d Inf., Ft. Oglethorpe, Ga.: Honorable Discharge, ETS, Svc Co, 22nd Inf., Chas. F. Hudson, 1st Lt., 22nd Inf., Per. Adjutant. Signed: William R. Ricks, Private Specialist 5th Class, occupation: Cook, single. Character: Excellent.

9 November 1929: Separation. Capt Edw. J. Glymer, QM, for Maj. D. W. Mosey.

Signatures in record:D. E. Morgan, 1st Lt. Inf. (Tanks) (5 August 1926)T. J. Baker, Major, Finance Dept (23 March 1928)F. W. McLarren, Capt. Fin. Dept. (16 Oct 1928)L. E. Edwards, 1st Lt. Fin. Dep. (4 Sept 1929)A. J. Monger, 1st Lt. 22nd Inf. (4 Sept 1929)Robert Joerg Jr., Capt., 22nd Inf.C. C. Chandler, Capt., 22nd Inf.David E. Garnett, Capt., 22nd Inf.Thomas E. Gray (Grey), Capt, 22d Inf.John Weckerling, 1st Lt., 22nd Inf.George W. Leachart, Capt., 22nd Inf.T. M. Cornell, Capt., 22nd Inf.C. F. Hudson, 1st Lt., 22nd Inf.

16 November 1929 — 19 January 1933:

William Roscoe Ricks reenlisted in the United States Army at Chattanooga, Tennessee, on 16 November 1929, in the grade of Private. Home address was Route 3, Albany, Alabama. His term of service was three years for with the 6th Infantry at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. Assigned by S. O. #224. Signed by Jeffry Montague, Captain, Infantry, DOL, A.R.O. Physical examination at Chattanooga, Tenn., by C. A. Skelton, Capt., O. R. C. Nearest relative: James Arthur Ricks, brother, Route #3, Albany, Ala.

16 Nov 1929: Private, 1st Ind., AGO, dated 5 Nov 1929

18 Nov 1929: Paid as Pvt. Spec. 6th Class by Major D. W. Morey

25 Nov 1929: Assigned to Svc Co, 6th Inf.

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2 Jan 1930—4 Jan 1930: AWOL 3 days, from Jefferson Barracks, Mo.

1 Feb 1930: Assigned to Svc Co, 22nd Inf., Ft McPherson, Ga.

5 Feb 1930: Hq., Jefferson Barracks, MO, transferred to CO, Svc Co, 22nd Inf., Para 4, SO#45, Hqs., 6th CA, dated 30 Jan 1930. Last paid by Major H. G. Rice, FD, on 31 Dec 1929. Efficiency: Average. Character: Good.

1 Mar 1930: Allotment $15 for support of father, William E. Ricks. Signed by A. J. Monger, 1st Lt, 22d Infantry. Discontinued 30 April 1930. 7 May 1930: pay records (disc allotment $15) signed by T. M. Cornell, Capt, 22nd Infantry. Support of Father, William E. Ricks

9 April 1930: Sharpshooter. Compensation pay: $3.00 per mo., SO #84, Hq., 22nd Inf., dated 13 May 1930. Score: 295.

17 July 1930: Cobbler Qualification Training, O# 9.

26 Sept 1930: [26 years old] Sharpshooter, score 299, RSO # 193, Hq., 22nd Inf., dated 10 Dec 1930. Extra pay: $3.00 per month.

2 Oct—5 Oct 1930: AWOL 4 days: Private Specialist Fifth Class did absent himself from his organization at Ft. McPherson, Georgia. Ft. Hayes, Ohio: Charge sheet witnesses: Morning Report extract; T. M. Cornell, Capt., 22nd Infantry, Ft McPherson; Edward Burna, 1/SGT, Service Company, 22nd Infantry.

14 Oct 1930: Summary Courts-martial—AWOL. Trial referred to 1st Lt. E. D. Post, 10th Infantry. Confined at hard labor for 12 days, forfeit $5.00, by A. J. Monger, 1st Lt., 22nd Infantry. Released 26 Oct.

6 Oct—26 Oct 1930: Confined (lost 20 days)

27 Oct—3 Dec 1930: Confined (lost 38 days) Ft Benjamin Harrison, Ind.

2 Dec 1930: Summary Courts-martial—AWOL charge: Soldier (attached Recruit Detachment, Ft. Hayes, Ohio) did absent himself from 6 AM—12:30 PM, 27 October, at Ft. Hayes, Columbus, Ohio.

Witnesses: James M. Campbell, Capt., 10th Infantry; Phillip J. Mandler, Sergeant (Recruit Detachment). Confined at hard labor for 3 days, forfeit $1.40 pay. Released Dec 4th. Signed: W. G. Stephenson, Jr., 2nd Lt., 11th Inf., Prison Officer. Approved by Russell C. Langdon, Colonel, Infantry, Summary Court Officer.

4 Dec 1930: From 2nd Lt. W. G. Stephenson, 11th Infantry, to TAG thru channels: Request instructions to return Private Ricks to his proper station, without guard and cost and chargeable to soldier.

17 Dec 1930: Hq., Ft Benjamin Harrison, Ind., Para 4, SO 292, reassigned to CO, Ft McPherson, Ga.

10 Jan 1931: Hq., 22d Inf., to C.O., Ft Riley, Ks.: Ricks assigned detached service, SO#29, Hq. Ft. McPherson, dated 10 Jan 1931—12 Feb 1931. Character: Excellent, Efficiency: Satisfactory, A. J. Monger, 1st Lt, 22nd Inf.

13 June 1931: The Calvary School, Ft. Riley, Kansas, to C. O., Ft McPherson, Ga., transferred to your command per S.O 127, dated 12 June 1931, and left this organization 13 June 1931. Last paid 31 May, by Capt. B Augur, 9th Cav. Acting F. C.. Character Rating: Excellent. Signed: P. M. Morton, 2nd Lt., 13th Cav., Asst. Pers Adjutant.

13 June 1931: Graduated Saddler’s Course, the Calvary School.

6 July 1931: Private 1st Class, O# 16.

1 Aug 1931: Private, O#23.

17 Sept 1931: Sharpshooter, pay $3.00 per mo, score 297, RSO #133, Hq., 22nd Inf., dated 10 Nov 1931.

1 Oct 1931: Private 1st Class, O# 25.

31 Jan 1932: Discontinuance of life insurance policy signed by F. A. Irving, Capt., 22d Infantry.

14 Oct 1932: Sharpshooter, score 305, Extra pay: $3.00 per mo., SO #139, Hq., 22nd Inf., dated 11 Nov 1932.

14 Jan 1933: Corporal.

16 Jan 1933: Physical exam (normal) by S. L. Cooke, Capt., MC, Ft McPherson, Ga.

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17 Jan 1933: Cobbler Qualification Training, O# 2.

19 Jan 1933: Honorable Discharge, Expiration Term of Service, William R. Ricks, Corporal, Svc Co., 22nd Inf., Ft McPherson, Ga., signed B. A. J. Sells, Captain, 22d Infantry.

Signatures in record:

Jeffry Montague, Capt., DOL, A. R. OA. J. Bassett, Capt., 6th InfantryT. M. Cornell, Captain, 22nd InfantryA. J. Monger, 1st Lt., 22nd InfantryW. G. Stephenson Jr., 2nd Lt, 11th InfantryErnest A. Higgins, Capt., 22nd InfantryF. A. Irving, Capt., 22nd Inf., AdjutantF. M. Child, Capt., 22nd InfantryB. A. J. Sells, Capt., 22nd Infantry

20 January 1933 — 19 January 1936:

Enlistment Record: William Roscoe Ricks, 6353713, reenlisted at Ft. McPherson, Ga., by C. R. Landon, 1st Lt., Inf. (DOL) ADC, Recruiting Officer. Re-enlistment allowance: $75 Character and Efficiency: Excellent. C. R. Landon, 1st Lt., (DOL), ADC RO. Rank: Corporal. Completed six years service, assigned Ser. Co., 22d Inf. Marital status: Married.

22 Feb 1933: Rejoined co. after furlough from 23 Jan 33—22 Feb 1933.

15 Sep 1933: Married with written permission [Alma V. Huddleston].

5 March 1934: Rejoined Co. after furlough from 4 Feb 1934—5 March 1934.

11 Nov 1934: Expert Rifleman, SO#112, 22nd Inf., published 17 Dec 1934, Compensation: $5.00 per month. Score: 223.

17 Jan 1936: Physical exam by Edward M. DeYoung, 1st Lt., MC, Ft. McClellan, Alabama.

18 Jan 1935: Promoted to SGT, SO#18.

19 Jan 1936: Sergeant, Serv. Co., 22d Inf., Ft

McClellan, Ala. Honorably discharged, expiration of service. Wm G. Burt, Capt., 22nd Infantry.

Signatures in record:

C. R. Landon, 1st Lt., (DOL)B. A. J. Sells, Capt., 22nd InfantryRalph Finch, 1st Lt., 22nd Infantry (2 entries)T. J. Sled--, Capt, 22d Inf. (weak signature block)C. C. B. Warden, 1st Lt., 22nd InfantryWm. G. Burt, Capt, 22d Inf., Commanding

20 January 1936 — 27 October 1937:

Enlistment Record: William Roscoe Ricks, 1628 Moore Ave., Anniston, Ala., enlisted at Ft McClellan, Ala., 20 Jan 1936, Sergeant, by Harry G. Rennagel, Capt., 22d Inf., for Serv. Co, 22nd Infantry, to serve three years. Marital status: Married to Mrs. Alma V. [Huddleston] Ricks, beneficiary. 17 Jan 1936 had a hernia operation. Medical exam made by Floyd L. Wergeland, 1st Lt, Medical Corps. Eyes: Blue; Hair: D. Brown; Complexion: Ruddy; Height: 66 1/2 inches; Weight: 124 lbs.; Vision: 20/20. William E. Ricks, father, lived with son at 1628 Moore Ave., Anniston, Ala. Completed nine years service. Protestant.

Figure 5: Circa 1936, SGT William Roscoe Ricks, Service Company, 22nd Infantry

20 Jan 1936—3 February 1936: Furlough.

1 Mar 1936: Allotment: Life insurance, signed: John F. Hanley.

4 Nov 1936—3 Dec 1936: Furlough.

1 Mar 1937: Allotment: Life insurance, signed: Wm G. Burt, Capt.

Signatures in record:

Harry G. Rennagel, Capt, 22nd InfantryWm. G. Burt, Capt., 22nd InfantryJohn F. Hanley, Major, 22nd Infantry.

27 Oct 1937: Honorable discharge for convenience of Government to re-enlist Serv. Co., 22d Infantry. Character and Efficiency: Excellent. Wm. G. Burt, Capt., 22nd Infantry. Physical exam (normal) by J. T. McGibony, 1st Lt., MC.

28 October 1937 — 27 October 1940:

Enlistment Record: William Roscoe Ricks, born September 4, 1904, age 33 and 1 month, enlisted for a period of 3 years for Serv. Co., 22nd Infantry. Medical exam at Ft. McClellan by J. T. McGibony, 1st Lt, M. C.. Weight: 122 1/2 lbs.; Normal. Marital status: Married to Mrs. Alma V. [Huddleston] Ricks, 1700 Moore Ave., Anniston, Ala. Alternate beneficiary: Mr. W. E. Ricks, 1424 Fourth Avenue, Decatur, Ala. witnessed by N. G. Bush, Major, 22nd Infantry. Service credit: 10 years, 9 months, 9 days.

6 Nov 1937: Service Company, 22nd Infantry, Ft McClellan, Ala., to Commandant, I. S. D., Ft. Benning, Ga., SGT William R. Ricks transferred to DS [detached service] your command per SO 346, Hq., Ft McClellan, Ala, dated 22 October 1937, and left this organization 1 Nov 1937. Last paid on 27 Oct 1937 by A. G. Alexander, 1st Lt., Fin-Res. Signed: Wm. G. Burt, Capt., 22d Inf. Character and Efficiency: Excellent. Soldier reported 1 Nov 1937, detached to B & C School.

28 Feb 1938: Graduated from School for Bakers and Cooks, Ft. Benning, Ga., as First Cook.

31 March 1938: Graduated from School for Bakers and Cooks, Ft Benning, Ga., as Mess Sergeant.

31 March 1938: School for Bakers and Cooks, Ft6. Benning, Ga., to C. O., Serv. Co., 22d Inf., soldier returned to your command, para 2, SO# 68, The Infantry School, 31 March 1938. Singed: L. H. Sims, Major, F. D. Character and Efficiency rating: Excellent, signed A. W. Lee, Major, QM Corps. Soldier reported 22nd Inf., 31 Mar 1938 and assigned Service Company.

1 April 1938—5 April 1938: Furlough. Rejoined 6 April

6 May 1938: Expert Rifleman, SO# 29, Hq., 22nd Infantry, compensation, $5.00.

13 Aug 1939—31 Aug 1939: Furlough. Rejoined 1 Sept 1939.

15 July 1940—29 July 1940: Furlough. Rejoined 3 Aug 1940.

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Figure 5a: Grave of Alma V. [Huddleston] Ricks, Edgemont Cemetery, Single Section C,

Anniston, Alabama“Was far too sweet to linger longer”

12 Aug 1940: Promotion to Staff Sergeant, RSO#100, Hq., 22nd Infantry.

25 October 1940: Physical exam by James A. Watt, 1st Lt., MC, normal.

27 October 1940: Final Endorsement: Service Company, 22nd Infantry, Ft. McClellan, Ala., Ricks, William R., 6353713, Staff Sgt., Service Co., 22nd Inf., separated from the service by reason of Hon Discharge, Expiration of Term of Service. Character and Efficiency: Excellent. Signed: David S. Dillard, 1st Lt., 22nd Infantry. [Signed] William R. Ricks.

Signatures in record:N. G. Bush, Maj., 22d Inf., R. O.Wm. G. Burt, Capt., 22d Inf.A. W. Lee, Major, Q. M. Corps[Faint/unreadable name; initials E. S.?] [Faint/unreadable name; initials GWH?]Harry W. McClellan, 2Lt, 22d Inf.David S. Dillard, 2d Lt., 22d Inf.

28 October 1940 — 10 October 1945:

William Roscoe Ricks, Staff Sergeant, age 38, widower, Supply Sergeant, reenlisted in the United States Army at Fort McClellan, Alabama, on 28 October 1940, for a period of three years, by M. G. Bonner, Major, Infantry Reserve. Beneficiaries designated were: William E. Ricks, father, General Delivery, Decatur, Alabama; and Oscar E. Ricks, brother, Service Company, 22nd Infantry, Fort McClellan, Alabama. Canvasser: Willie R. Cobb, St. Sgt., Service Co., 22d Infantry, Ft. McClellan, Ala. Medical exam: Normal, weight 125 lbs., signed by James A. Watt, 1st Lt., MCR. [Fingerprints used first time.]

Supply Sergeant, date not entered.28 Oct 1940: Enlistment allowance of $150 paid by A. A. Goodwin, Major, Infantry, FD.

29 Oct 1940 -2 Nov 1940: Furlough. Rejoined 3 Nov 1940. Service period governed by Service Extension Act of 1941

3 April 1941: Married with permission at Columbus, Ga., to Rilla Mae Fowler. Beneficiary changed to read Rilla Maye Ricks, General Delivery, Wedowee, Ala. Relationship: wife.

“The 22d Infantry Regiment was stationed at Fort McClellan, Alabama, as a component of the 8th Infantry Brigade, which was the sole active component of the deactivated 4th Infantry Division. 22d Inf. Regt moved to Fort Benning on February 21, 1941 to train with the division, and then moved to Camp Gordon, Georgia on December 27, 1941, where it was reorganized under a motorized TO&E on September 9, 1942.The regiment moved to Fort Dix, New Jersey on April 16, 1943, where it was reorganized under a regular infantry TO&E on August 1, 1943. The regiment continued to train for combat, moving on to Camp Gordon Johnston, Florida on September 28, 1943, and to Fort Jackson, South Carolina on December 1, 1943. 22nd IR subsequently got its Port Call orders, and staged at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey on January 8, 1944 until it shipped out from the New York Port of Embarkation on January 18, 1944.The regiment arrived in England on January 29, 1944, settled in near Plymouth, England, and started preparations to assault Utah Beach. The regiment assaulted Utah Beach on June 6, 1944, as part of VII Corps in the D-Day Invasion, and arrived in the vicinity of Ravenoville, France by the end of D-day. It then participated in the Cherbourg Peninsula operation while attached to 2nd Armored Division from July 19 through August 2, 1944.The regiment then returned to 4th Infantry Division, and headed for Belgium as part of the Operation Cobra, moved into Belgium on September 6, 1944, and entered Germany on September 11, 1944. The regiment was attached to 83d Infantry Division, 3–7, December1944, and then returned to 4th Infantry Division in Luxembourg on December 12, 1944. 22nd IR then moved to Belgium on January 28, 1945, and re-entered Germany on February 7, 1945, where it remained on mop-up and occupation until July 12, 1945, when it DEROSed to the New York POE, and moved to its temporary home at Camp Butner, North Carolina while the regiment trained for movement to Japan. However, the war in the Pacific terminated, and the regiment remained at Camp Butner until it was deactivated on March 5, 1946.”Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/22nd_Infantry_Regiment_(United_States)

1 Jan 1942—7 Jan 1942: Furlough. Rejoined 8 Jan 1942.

1 Feb 1942: Appointed 1/SGT from Staff Sergeant, over 12 years, Serv. Co., SO# 27, Hq., 22nd Infantry Motorized, Camp Gordon, Ga.

2 Mar 1942—11 March 1942: Furlough [Father, William Edward Ricks, died 2 March 1942, Decatur, Alabama; their first child, Douglas Franklin Ricks, was born 10 March, at Ft Benning]. Rejoined 12 March 1942.

3 March 1942: Rating, 1/SGT: Excellent.

14 April 1942: Rating, 1/SGT: Excellent. Initials: B. S. C.

4 June 1942—13 June 1942: Furlough. Rejoined 14 June 1942.

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22 Aug 1942: Soldier took exam for Warrant Officer and failed same.

7 Sept. 1942: Promoted to Master Sergeant from First Sergeant, RSO# 198, Hq., 22nd Infantry.

19 Oct 1942: Rating as Clerk, Regimental Supply Office: Excellent. Initials: B. S. C.

1 Nov 1942: $75 per mo in favor of Rilla Mae Ricks, 1726 Moore Ave., Anniston, Ala., for Defense Savings Bonds. Discontinued 31 March 1943. Reason: War Dept Cir. # 44, 1943.3 Nov 1942: Thompson Sub Machine Gun, Cal. 45, expert—score 84, RSO# 42, Hq., 22nd Infantry, dated 24 Feb 1943.

13 Nov 1942—20 Nov 1942: Furlough. Rejoined 21 Nov 1942.

11 Jan 1943: Hand grenade training.

24 Feb 1943: RSO# 42, Hqs., 22nd Inf. (Thompson Machine Gun, Cal. 45) Expert-Score 84, date qualified 3 Nov. 1942.

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Figure 6: SFC Oscar Edward Ricks (635239) and his wife, Brenice Odessa[Long] Ricks, Atlanta, Georgia, about 1946. Oscar

Ricks died at Wetumpkia, Alabama, 16 December 1995.

Figure 7, 8: First Sergeant William R. Ricks, Rilla Maye Ricks, wife, and their first child, Douglas Franklin Ricks, born 10 March 1942. Photo taken before 7 September, as First Sergeant Ricks was promoted to Master Sergeant on that date (below)

15 May 1943: Chemical Exposure Course A.

31 May 1943: Chemical Exposure Course B.

3 June 1943: Good Conduct Ribbon, per SO #5, Hq., 22nd Infantry, Ft. Dix, N.J.

27 June 1943: Birth of second child, Donald M. Ricks, at Ft. Dix, New Jersey.

28 June 1943—7 July 1943: Furlough. Rejoined 8 July 1943.

30 July 1943: Course A, Carbine M-1, Sharp Shooter, score: 171.

7 Nov 1943: Rating, Supply Sergeant, Regimental Supply Office. Initials: B. S. C.

9 Nov 1943: Application for Dependency Benefits (W.D.,A.G.O. Form No. 625): Master Sergeant William R. Ricks, 6353713, Service Co., 22nd Infantry, APO 4, Camp Gordon Johnston, Florida. Married: home address R.F.D. #1, C/O William B. Fowler, Wedowee, Alabama. Dependents: Wife, Rilla Maye Ricks, R.F.D. #1, Wedowee, Alabama; Douglas Franklin Ricks (b. 3-10-1942), same address; Donald Milton Ricks (b. 6-27-1943), same address. Members of immediate family now serving in the military: Ricks, James A., Gen. Del., Martinsville, Ind., Army, brother, age 42; Ricks, Oscar E., Gen. Del., Anniston, Ala., Army, brother, age 37; Ricks, Robert A., Gen. Del., Decatur, Ala., Army, brother, age 34; Ricks, Eual S., Rt #2, Decatur, Ala., Army, brother, age 27. Enclosures: 2 birth certificates; 1 affidavit-witness of Marriage Ceremony. Signed by Preston T. Niland, 2nd Lt., 22nd Inf., Asst. Adjutant.

17 Nov 1943: Hand grenade training. European Theater of Operation Indoctrination Course Completed: Authorized European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Medal and ribbon.

3 Jan 1944: Soldier’s home address and beneficiary changed: (1) Rilla M. Ricks, wife, Route #1, Wedowee, Ala.; (2) Franklin D. Ricks, son, Rt # 1, Wedowee, Ala.; (3) Milton D. Ricks, son, Rt. #1, Wedowee, Ala. War Dept A.G.O. #41 submitted. Nearest relative: Mr. Eual S. Ricks, General Delivery, Decatur, Alabama. [Signed] William Roscoe Ricks,

6353713, at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, witnessed by [signed] Preston T. Niland, 2nd Lt., 22nd Inf., O-1305819.

NOTE: Preston T. Niland, KIA at Normandy :http://1-22infantry.org/history/ddayplus1.htm

10 Jan 1944: Class E Allotment $100 discontinued 31 Jan 1944; substitute Class E Allotment $150 per mo for Feb 1944.

18 Jan 1944: New York Port of Embarkation. Entitled to increased pay for Foreign Service.

29 Jan 1944: Arrived England [Unit trained at Devonshire County, England]:

“On arriving in England in February 1944 the division was initially stationed in the vicinity of Tiverton, Devonshire County [Devon County was cleared of all inhabitants and its people sworn to secrecy during the training periods]. The plan of operations on the invasion of France called for the employment of the Fourth Division as one of the assault divisions. The plan in general was for the division to land on Utah Beach, Cotentin Peninsula., in column of regimental combat teams and joins as soon as possible the 101st and 82d Airborne Divisions to establish a beachhead for the VII Corps and to advanced on Cherbourg.”

 Source: http://history.amedd.army.mil/booksdocs/wwii/HuertgenForest/4thIDSurgAnnual1944.htm  [2. Maneuver Experiences:]

“During the build-up for the D-Day landings, Devon was used for training, and ultimately was a point of embarkation for both the sea and airborne assaults. The sand dunes of Woolacombe, on the north coast, were fortified with mock German defenses and Dartmoor was used, as it is today, as a training area. A large area of the South Hams, lying just west of Dartmouth was evacuated and used as a live fire area due to its similarity to Normandy. It was here that the ill-fated Exercise Tiger disaster took place in April 1944, described in Ken Small`s book, the Forgotten Dead. A Sherman DD tank now lies as a memorial at Slapton to those who lost their lives during this exercise. In the final weeks before D-Day, US troops turned huge areas of Devon into camps, with many of these embarking onto Landing Craft Tanks (LCTs) via the ramps at Brixham and Torquay, from where they set sail to UTAH BEACH in Normandy.”

Source: http://www.fatbearscave.net/theworldatwar.info/devon.htmlAlso see: http://1-22infantry.org/history2/regthistory.htm

5 June 1944: Left UK. Authorized to wear the

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American Defense Service Ribbon.

6 June 1944—30 Aug 1944: Awarded Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service against an enemy of the United States in France.

23 June 1944—7 Sept 1944: Service in France.

26 July—1 Aug 1944: Eligible for Distinguished Unit Citation, St Lo Breakthrough:

“On July 19 the regiment moved behind the lines to the vicinity of La Mine, where, attached to Brig. Gen. Maurice Rose’s Combat Command A of the Second Armored Division, it began almost immediately to plan and train for the forthcoming breakthrough operations. The overall plan contemplated the use of heavy bomber aircraft for saturation type bombing and, hence, was dependent on weather suitable for flying. Infantry-tank teams were organized. Training was pursued in this type combat to the end that members of the 22nd Infantry and Combat Command A developed confidence one in the other, and became fast friends. July 25 dawned clear, and the weather, which had heretofore been overcast with steady rains, was announced satisfactory. At 1100 the St. Lo Breakthrough commenced with bombardment by B-17 type aircraft. At the conclusion of the bombardment, elements of the Fourth Division penetrated the enemy’s defense and rolled back the flanks to right and left. One day later Combat Command A of the Second Armored, with the 22nd Infantry attached, began its move toward St. Gillis and Canisy. Combat Command A moved in three columns on July 28 and, while the First and Second Battalions of the 22nd Infantry were held up along the stream south of Moyen, the Third Battalion seized the high ground northeast of Percy. The First Battalion, now under Captain Bruce Lattimer, and the Second Battalion, under Major H. L. Drake, disengaged from the enemy and, having moved west to the Le Mesnil Herman-Percy axis, attacked south toward Villebaudon. Near Villebaudon, Combat Command A was struck by enemy columns counterattacking from three directions, and the situation became critical. Bold and decisive action by leaders in all echelons, and courage and determination on the part of the troops, stabilized the situation by nightfall. On the first of August, the Third Battalion, with accompanying armor, seized Tessy-sur-Vire, and out-posted the high ground beyond. At noon the next day the regiment reverted to the control of the Fourth Division, and the initial phase of the breakthrough operation was terminated.For its outstanding performance in this operation the regiment was awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation.”

Source:http://1-22infantry.org/history2/regthistory.htm

2 Aug 1944: Due EM for Combat Infantry pay for Aug 1944.

14 Aug 1944: Decorated with Combat Infantryman’s Badge, per Par.1, GO #1, Hq., 22nd Infantry, By orderof Colonel Charles T. Lanham, signed: J. Herbert Brill, Captain, 22nd Infantry, Assistant Adjutant (P. C.). Entered and filed, 21 Dec 1944.

8 Sept 1944—10 Sept 1944: Service in Belgium.

11 Sept 1944—6 Oct 1944: Service in Germany.

7 Oct 1944—1 Nov 1944: Service in Belgium.

2 Nov 1944—4 Nov 1944: Service in Germany.

4 Nov 1944: Non-battle casualty in Germany. Returned to duty 25 Jan 1945 [My father once told me that he had fallen into a revine at night while moving his unit to a new location. Injuries are most likely mentioned in his medical records].

26 Nov 1944: Hq., 22d Infantry, APO 4, C/C PM, NY, NY. To: Cem Rec Br., AG. Casualty Div, APO 887: This soldier was lost to Hospital (see pg 15), Circular 94, Hq., ETO [European Theater of Operations], USA, 31 Aug 1944. Character and Efficiency: Excellent, signed by Robert G. Hoehn, 1st Lt, 22d Inf.

29 Nov 1944: Detachment of Patients, 4205 USA Hospital, APO 556, U. S. Army. To: 10th Replacement Control Depot, APO 874, U. S. Army. Soldier transferred your command, par 2, SO# 74, Hq., 163d Gen Hosp, dated 26 Nov 1944 and left this organization 29 Nov 1944, signed Francis S. Honisek, 2nd Lt., MAC, Asst CO, Detachment of Patients.

16 Jan 1945: Hq., 94th Repl Bn, 9th Repl Depot, GFRC, APO 545, U. S. Army. To: CO, 17th Repl Depot, APO 873. Soldier transferred to your command per para 61, SO 16, and departed this organization 17 Jan 1945, Thomas A. Bridges, 1st Lt, AGD, Asst Adjutant.

17 Jan 1945: Left United Kingdom, arrived Luxembourg 25 Jan 1945.

18 Jan 1845: Completed 18 years service.

21 Jan 1945: 81st Repl Bn., APO 873. To: Det 38. This soldier trans to your comd. per par 21, T02, 17th Repl

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Depot. Soldier left this organ. 23 Jan 1945. Signed: J. J. Bossenmaier, 2nd Lt, Infantry, Ass’t Adjutant.

25 Jan 1945: Hq., 38th Replacement Bn, APO 312, U. S. Army; To: CG, 4th Inf. Div, APO 4, U. S. Army. This soldier transferred your command per para 10, SO 24, Hq., 38 Repl Bn, dated 24 Jan 1945 and left this organization 25 Jan 1945. Signed: James S. Richards, Capt, AUS, Adj., 38th Repl Bn. Reported 25 Jan 1945.

6 Feb 1945—13 March 1945: Service in Germany.

14 March 1945—25 March 1945: Service in France.

26 March 1945: Service in Germany.

12 April 1945: Bronze Star Medal: Sec III, GO # 33, Hq., 4th Inf. Div. APO 4 .

14 May 1945: Headquarters, 22nd Infantry, APO 4, C/O Postmaster, NY, NY; Reception Station No 15: This soldier transferred your command per par 1, SO # 94, Hq., 4thInf. Div., 14 May 1945, and left this organization 16 May 1945. Last paid 30 April 1945 by S. H. Smith, Lt. Col., F. D. Character and Efficiency: Excellent. Signed: J. Herbert Brill, Capt., 22nd Inf.

15 May 1945: Adjusted Service Rating (ASR) Card attached showing ASR score 116. Home address: 320 S. Leighton St., Anniston, Ala. Emergency and 1st Beneficiary: Rilla Maye Ricks, same address. Contingent beneficiaries: Franklin D. Ricks, son; Donald Milton Ricks, son, same address.

2 June 1945: Departed Germany for United States.

11 June 1945: Arrived BNPE [Possibly at Boston].

17 June 1945: Hq., Reception Station No, 15, Ft. McPherson, Georgia. To: CG, Redistibution Sta, Miami, Beach, Fla.. Soldier was transferred to your command para 24, SO 167, this HQ CS 1945. Left this station 16 June 1945, [signed] Earl B. Walker, 1st Lt., A. U. S.. Soldier reported 16 July 1945.

28 June 1945: Soldier due 20% increase in base pay for Foreign Service from 1 May 1945—11 June 1945.

21 July 1945: AG&SF Redistribution Station, Miami Beach, Florida. Present profile: 311111-X (B)

26 July 1945: AG & SF Redistribution Sta., Miami Beach, Fla., TO: CO, IRTC, Ft. McClellan, Ala., this soldier transferred to your command per par 32, SWO 207, Hqs., this station and left this organization 27 July 1945.

27 July 1945: Entitled to following campaign stars:

• Normandy B/S• N. France B/S• Rhineland B/S• Ardennes B/S• Central Europe B/S• Eligible for Distinguished Unit Badge for St Lo

Breakthrough [WDCO-14-45]

14 August 1945: EM authorized to ration separately.

11 Sept 1945: Assigned Co. C, 9th Bn, IRTC, Ft. McClellan, Ala.

10 Oct 1945: Discharged for reenlistment: 11 October 1945, for Infantry (unassigned). M/Sgt. Sworn in by Paul L. Webb, Lt. Col., Infantry. Address: 320 S. Leighton Avenue, Anniston, Alabama. Service time to date: 18 years, 8 months, and 22 days. Term of service: 3 years.

25 April 1946: Change of status report: M/SGT William Roscoe Ricks, Co D, 7th Bn, 2d Regiment, IRTC, Ft. McClellan, Alabama. Address: 320 Leighton Avenue, Anniston, Alabama. Birth of Child: James William Ricks. Birth certificate attached.

20 Dec 1946: Application for Retirement: M/SGT William R. Ricks, RA 6353713, Headquarters, C. #1, RTC, Fort McClellan, Alabama. Service time to date: 19 years, 11 months, and 0 days. Home address: 308 S. Leighton Avenue, Anniston, Alabama. Approved at Company by: Morris Zebrowitz, Major, Commanding.

6 Jan 1947: Retirement application, M/SGT Ricks. War Department letter this date states that due the large number of applicants for retirement, action cannot be expected before 6 March 1947. Inform the soldier accordingly. Signed: J. W. Watson, Adjutant General.

12 March 1947: War Department. Paragraph 57, WDSO 47, dated 7 March 1947, directs the retirement and transfer to ERC of M/SGT William R. Ricks, RA 6353713, Hq., Co #1, RTC, effective 31 March 1947 at Fort McClellan, Alabama. Service time: 20 years, 2 months and 12 days.

27 March 1947: Physical exam for retirement: Address: Route 2, Box 46H, Oxford, Alabama.

31 March 1947: Retired from active duty.

Signatures in record:

M. G. Bonner, Maj., Inf., Res. R. O.David S. Dillard, 1st Lt., 22d Inf.Newsom Cooper, Capt., 22d Infantry.W. J. Colman, 2nd Lt., 22d Inf., Adj.James A. Jackson, 1st Lt., 22d Infantry.William H. Taft, 2nd Lt, Inf.William B. Ogilvie, 2nd Lt., 22nd Inf., Asst Adjutant (Asst P. O).Billy S. C[unreadable], 1st Lt., 22d Inf.Preston T. Niland, 2nd Lt, 22d Inf., Asst Adj. (Asst P. O.)Robert G. Hofhn, 1st Lt., 22nd Inf.F. S. Honisek, 2d Lt., MAC, Asst CO, Det of Pnts.Thomas A. Bridges, 1st Lt., AGD, Asst Personnel Officer.J. T. Gilley, WOJGUSA

“Regardless of the relationship of my Adjusted Service Rating score to the Present Critical Score and such changes as may be made therein prior to the end of the present emergency plus six months, I elect to remain in the army as a class 3 volunteer.”[signed] William R. Ricks 6353713, M/SGT

31 Dec 1947: Change of Address, to: Route #1, Box 213, Anniston, Alabama.

27 Dec 1948: Change of address: Moved from P. O. Box 17, Weaver, Alabama, to 2422 McCoy Avenue, Anniston, Alabama.

1 Jan 1950: Change of Address, from: 2422 McCoy Ave., Anniston, Alabama, to: PO Box 17, Weaver, Alabama.

2 Feb 1950: LO #106, Hq., Alabama Military District, Birmingham, Ala., following EM assigned to Ala. ORC Control Group (Inactive Res): M/SGT William R. Ricks, ER 6353713, Inf.-Res; M/SGT James A. Ricks, ER 6333974, Inf.-Res [older brother of W. R. Ricks; many retiree names on this roster].

9 March 1951: Change of address card, from: P. O. Box 17, Weaver, Alabama, to: 1004 S. Christine Ave., Anniston, Alabama.

22 May 1951: Request consideration for active duty. Home address 1004 S. Christine Ave., Anniston, Alabama.

6 March 1953: M/SGT William R. Ricks, ER6353713, Inf.-Residence: 1004 S. Christine St., Anniston, Ala., (Calhoun), P MOS 1502, relieved from assignment to 3091 USAR Control Group (Inactive) Ala., and assigned to 3164 USAR Control Group (Standby) Alabama. [Many retiree names are on this roster].

18 Aug 1953: Retired and transferred to ERC for completion of 30 years service, both effective 31 March 1947.

NOTE: Master Sergeant Ricks served at Fort McClellan, Alabama, for the remainder of his career, until retirement on 31 March 1947. He served as Sergeant Major of the Infantry Reserve Training Center at retirement. He studied Book Keeping and Cost Accounting at Anniston Business College, from May 1948—October 1950, while also attending Veteran’s Trade School learning Shoe Repair from 16 March 1949—16 March 1950. He owned and operated a shoe repair shop on Noble Street until moving to a farm in Cleburne County. He moved to Valdosta about 1957 and managed the Officer’s Club at Moody Air Force Base.

22 April 1955: Change of address card, from: Route 1, Muscadine, Alabama, to: Route 5, Box 335, Anniston, Alabama. Received 2 May 1955.

6 February 1956: Address changed from: Route 5, Box 335, Anniston, Alabama, to: 1506 Circle Drive, Anniston, Alabama.

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2 May 1956: Change of address card from: 1506 Circle Ave., Anniston, Ala., to: 109 West 16th Street, Anniston, Alabama. Received 15 May 1956.

12 March 1957: Change of address card received from: 109 West 16th Street, Anniston, Alabama, to: 1712 Clover Drive, Valdosta, Georgia. Received 3 July 1957.

4 May 1957: Requested to remain in the ERC.

21 August 1958: New address reported via letter verifying permanent address: 514 Charlton Street, Valdosta, Georgia.

27 June 1960: XII United States Army Corps (Reserve), Atlanta, Georgia: To MSGT William R. Ricks, 514 Charlton Street, Valdosta, Georgia,

currently assigned to 3107 USAR Control Group (Retired) Reserve. Examination of records this headquarters reveals that you completed 30 years total service on 19 January 1957.

5 November 1965: MSGT Ricks replied that he requested discharge from the U. S. Army Reserve. Phone number was: Cherry (CH) 2-2373.

16 Feb 1966: Discharge form United States Army Reserves: Expiration of term of service. Assigned to Army Reserve (Retired).

5 August 1992: William R. Ricks died at the Veterans Administration Medical Center, Lake City, Florida, after a short illness.

End of Service Record

NOTE: Colonel Charles T. Lanham was the commanding officer of when Sergeant Ricks was in the unit in 1944.

22nd Unit History from the 22nd Infantry Regiment Yearbook, 1946:

M/Sgt William R. Ricks, RR 1, Wedowee, Ala., is listed on page 172 (Service Company)1/Sgt Robert A. Ricks, 823 E. Grant Street, Decatur, Ala., is listed on page 219, Company L, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry.

History of the Twenty-Second United States Infantry in World War II, by William S. Boice, pub. 1959.

A history of the Twenty-Second United States Infantry prepared by Colonel John McA. Palmer and Major William R. Smith, complete through May 1922 and published in that year is the only comprehensive history of the regiment to that date. This is the history of the regiment in World War II, closing with the inactivation of the regiment in 1945. The history is based on the Action—after—action report of the regiment during combat, and compiled by Lt. David R. James at Camp Butner, North Carolina, in 1945. Personal data and material have been supplied by Colonel Arthur S. Teague, Major-General Charles T. Lanham, Captain Donald L. Faulkner, and from contemporary publications. Original material is supplied by the editor. --William S. Boice, Chaplain, Twenty-Second Infantry.

http://1-22infantry.org/history2/regthistory.htmhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/22nd_Infantry_Regiment_(United_

States)http://www.22ndinfantry.org/wwii.htm

http://www.unithistories.com/units_index/default.asp?file=../units/units_american.asp

Figure 9: SFC Oscar Edward Ricks and his brother, 1/SGT Robert Andrew Ricks, 1940’s, probably taken at Ft. McPher-son, Georgia. For brother, James Arthur Ricks, see figure 11.

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Figure 10: (above) Rilla Maye Ricks and M/SGT William Roscoe Ricks, just after the birth of their son, Douglas, in 1942, at Fort Benning, Georgia. Maye Ricks died at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, 13 December 1961.

Figure 11: 1/SGT James Arthur Ricks and his wife, Doris, with their new daughter, Julia, about April 1942. James Ricks died at Nashville, Indiana, 17 March 1961.

ARMY BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY RECORDSRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS

[dated 19 February 2014]

THE APPLICANT’S REQUEST, STATEMENT, AND EVIDENCE: [Applicant is Donald M. Ricks]

1. The applicant requests that the records of his deceased father, a former service member (FSM), be corrected to show the awards of the World War II (WWII) Victory Medal, Arrowhead Device, and the National Defense Service Medal.

2. The applicant states the records of the FSM do not reflect the WWII Victory Medal, Arrowhead Device for participation in the Normandy Invasion, and the NDSM.

3. The applicant provides a partial copy of the FSM’s WD AGO Form 53-55 (Enlisted Record and Report of Separation Honorable Discharge), the FSM’s death certificate, the applicant’s birth certificate, a page from the FSM’s records that does not contain the FSM’s name, and a picture of the FSM’s grave.

CONSIDERATION OF EVIDENCE:

1 (paraphrased law) ...it is in the interest of justice to excuse the applicant’s failure to timely file. In all other respects, there are insufficient bases to waive the statute of limitations for timely filing.

2. The FSM’s military records are not available for review. A fire destroyed approximately 18 million service members’ records at the National Personnel Records Center in 1973. It is believed the FSM’s records were lost or destroyed in that fire [NOTE to all Veterans: This is not the case for my father’s records. Based upon a let-ter requesting a copy of military records, signed by my father when he was alive in November 1979, I received a copy of my father’s entire 201 file, excluding medicals, in a package dated 15 March 1980! Those records should still be at St. Louis. The copy remains in my possession and represent source documents used to pre-pare this service chronology document. ] However, the documents provided by the applicant are sufficient to conduct a fair and impartial review of this case [Yes, because they are extracts from my father’s records].

3. ... He [FSM] participated in the Northern France, Normandy, Rhineland, Ardennes, and Central Europe Campaigns.

4. ...honorably discharged at Fort McClellan, Alabama in the rank of Master Sergeant. His WD AGO Form 53-55 shows that he was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), Good Conduct Ribbon, Distinguished Unit Badge, Bronze Star Medal (BSM), American Defense Service Ribbon, and the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with five bronze service stars.

5. In the page submitted by the applicant, he indicates it is a page from the FSM’s records; however, it shows that the individual departed the United Kingdom on 5 June and arrived at Normandy on 6 June 1944. The D-Day invasion of Normandy occurred on 6 June 1944.

6. Army Regulation 600-8-22 (Military Awards) prescribes Army policy, criteria, and administrative instruc-tions concerning individual and unit military awards. It states:

a. the WWII Victory Medal is awarded for service between 7 December 1941 and 31 December 1946, both dates inclusive.

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b. the National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service for any period between 27 July 1950 and 27 July 1954, 1 January 1961 and 14 August 1974, 2 August 1990 and 30 November 1995, and 11 September 2001 and a date to be determined.

c. the “arrowhead” will be worn on the appropriate service medal to denote participation in a combat parachute jump, helicopter assault landing, combat glider landing, or amphibious assault landing while as-signed or attached as a member of an organized force carrying out assigned tactical missions. Individual as-sault credit is tied directly to the combat assault credit decision for the unit to which the Soldier is assigned. The unit must be credited with a combat assault in order for the Soldier to receive credit for a combat assault and the Soldier must physically exit the aircraft or the watercraft as appropriate. The arrowhead is authorized for wear on the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the Korean Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Glob-al War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

d. the BSM is awarded for heroism and for meritorious achievement or service in military operations against an armed enemy. The BSM is authorized for each individual who was cited in orders or awarded a certificate of exemplary conduct in ground combat between 7 December 1941 and 2 September 1945 or whose achievement or service, during the period, was confirmed by documents executed prior to 1 July 1947. An award of the CIB Badge or the Combat Medical Badge is considered to be a citation in orders. There-fore, the BSM is to be awarded to individuals who were authorized either badge for service during WWII.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS:

1. The FSM served during a qualifying period of the WWII Victory Medal and is entitled to have that award added to his records at this time.

2. While the records provided by the applicant do not contain the FSM’s identifying data. It is reasonable to presume that the records are those of the FSM and clearly show that he was present for the D-Day Invasion. Accordingly, the Arrowhead Device should be added to his records for wear on the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal.

3. It is also noted that the FSM was awarded the CIB and the BSM prior to his discharge on 10 October 1945. Accordingly, the FSM is entitled to a second award of the BSM based on his award of the CIB.

4. The FSM is not entitled to award of the NDSM as that award was not authorized for the period of service in which he served. It did not take effect until 5 years after his discharge.

THE BOARD VOTED UNANIMOUSLY TO GRANT PARTIAL RELIEF. [NDSM denied]

BOARD DETERMINATION/RECOMMENDATION:

The Board determined that it would...add the BSM (2nd Award), WWII Victory Medal, and the Arrowhead Device to the FSM’s WD AGO Form 53-55.

Salient points of the record abstracted and transcribed by Donald M. Ricks, CPT, U. S. Army Retired, February 26, 2014, on behalf of his father, MSGT William R. Ricks, deceased.

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