Uploaded: 23-Nov-2022
The CUB
Vol. 66, No. 3, Sep., 2010
Cover Photo: Grace Truman and Russ Lang holding the 106th Infantry Division Flag. Grace Truman brought a quantity of 106th Infantry Division Flags to the reunion to be distributed among the attendees. There were enough to place two at each table at the banquet.
Photo submitted by Associate Member Tom Hoff (of Milesahead Media), son of Russell Hoff (422/M) (see additional reunion photos on page 19)
The CUB
A tri-annual publication of the 106th Infantry Division Association, Inc. A nonprofit Organization
Paid Membership November 15, 2010 – 1,238
Membership includes CUB magazine subscription
Annual Dues will no longer be mandatory for Vets/Associates Donations accepted
Payable to "106th Infantry Division Association" in care of Treasurer -- See address below
Elected Offices
President Newton W. Weiss
Past-President (Ex-Officio) Rev. Ewell Black, Jr.
1st Vice-Pres Sy Lichtenfeld
2nd Vice-Pres William Stahl
Business Matters, Deaths, Address changes
First Name = Chairman / Second Name = Backup
Adjutant: Murray Stein 7614 Charing Crossing Lane, Delray Beach, FL 33446 561-499-7736 greg0803@bellsouth.net
Treasurer/Membership: Harry Martin Jr. 121 McGregor Avenue Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 973-663-2410 hmartin19@optonline.net
Acting Chaplain: Rev Ewell Black, Jr. 2000 E-W Conn - Apt 212, Austell, GA 30106 770-819-7212 ecb@avillager.org
Memorial Chairman:
Dr. John G. Robb / Frank Trautman 238 Devore Dr., Meadville, PA 16355 814-333-6364 jrobb238@hotmail.com
CUB Editor: William McWhorter 166 Prairie Dawn, Kyle, Texas 78640 512-970-5637 williammcwhorter17@gmail.com
CUB Publisher: Susan Weiss 9 Cypress Point Court, Blackwood, NJ 08012 856-415-2211 sweiss@gccnj.edu
Historian John Schaffner/William McWhorter
Atterbury Memorial Representative Frank Trautman
Resolutions Chairman Reverend Ewell Black
Order of the Golden Lion John Swett/Joseph Massey
Nominating Committee Chairman Sy Lichtenfeld slich44@bellsouth.net
Mini-Reunions Edward Christianson/Dr. Ralph Nelson
ADA Liaison Joseph Maloney/Gifford Doxsee
Membership Chairman Harry Martin Jr.
Board of Directors
Rev. Ewell C. Black Jr. (422/A). .(2010) 2000 E-W Conn - Apt 212, Austell, GA 30106 770-819-7212 ecb@avillager.org
Edward Christianson (331st Med/C) . (2010) 303 Harper Hollow Lane, Winchester, VA 22603 540-877-1643 deconed@webtv.net
Gifford B. Doxsee (423/HQ 3 Bn) (2010) 1 Canterbury Drive, Athens, OH 45701-3708 740-592-3472 doxsee@oak.cats.ohiou.edu
Dr. Ralph Nelson (422/CN) 2010) 10437 Prestwick NE, Albuquerque NM 87111 505-275-3044 ralph-rhoda@comcast.net
Lyle Beeth (424/AT) (2011) 2004 Golf Manor Blvd., Valrico, FL 33596-7288 1-888-644-4337 beeth2@hotmail.com
Harry Martin Jr. (424/L) (2011) 121 McGregor Avenue, Mount Arlington, NJ 07856 973-663-2410 hmartin19@optonline.net
Charles F. Rieck (422/H). (2011) 7316 Voss Parkway, Middleton, WI 53562-3776
Ellsworth H. Schanerberger (331st Med D) . .(2011) 15964 N Swathmore Ct., Livonia, MI 48154-1005 734-591-7851 eh_schanergberger@att.net
Dr. John G. Robb (422/D) .(2012) 238 Devore Dr., Meadville, PA 16355 814-333-6364 jrobb238@hotmail.com
John M. Roberts (592/C) 2012) 1059 Alter Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304-1401 248-338-2667 jmr810@aol.com
John Schaffner (589/A). .(2012) 1811 Miller Rd., Cockeysville, MD 21030-1013 410-584-2754 pumexim2@verizon.net
Frank S. Trautman (422/D). .(2012) 600 Morningside Dr., Zionsville, IN 46077-1903
William "Bill" Stahl (422/K) 2013) 211 Arapaboe Ct., Junction City, KS 66441 785-238-2364
Herbert "Mike" Sheaner (422/G) .(2013)
P.O. Box 140535 Dallas, Texas 75214 214/823-3003 Herbsheaner@SBCGlobal.net
Donald F. Herndon (424/L) . . .(2014) 8313 NW 102, Oklahoma City, OK 73162-4026 405-721-9164 oklastamps@aol.com
Bernard Mayrsohn (423/CN) (2014) 34 Brae Burn Drive, Purchase, NY 33138 914-428-8200 Ethelbarn@aol.com Web site: www.mayrsohn.com
Newton Weiss (423/HQ 3Bn). 2014) 400 Morse Avenue, Gibbstown, NJ 08027-1066 856-423-3511 newtruth@comcast.net
I feel it a great honor that our Association put their trust in me to guide our organization into the coming year.
It was a pleasure seeing those members that came to our latest reunion in Minneapolis, MN. All who attended had a grand time on the exertions and enjoyed visiting The Mall of America. A special thanks to Harold Kuizema, who stepped in for Rev. Ewell Black, who was unable to attend, for officiating at our Memorial service. A list of 50 departed comrades this year was read by our Adjutant Murray Stein. A contingent from a Boy Scout troop from Minneapolis presented the colors. The laying of the wreath was conducted by John Schaffner. Joseph and Vivian Mahoney were a great help in distributing the Memorial programs. As they have done in past years. After the ceremony those in the audience were asked to participate in a discussion about becoming an Associate. Approximately 30 of those present were briefed by Randy Wood, and should begin taking a roll in perpetuating the 106th Infantry Division Association. With the help of our elected Board we hope to accomplish changes in our By-Laws.
Newton W. Weiss, 423/Hq106th Infantry Division Association President 2010–2011400 Morse Avenue Gibbstown, NJ 08066856-423-3511 newtruth@comcast.net
The next reunion is being planned and will be held at the Sheraton in Baltimore in early September. This is to be a family-oriented event, to help perpetuate Associate members. Bring your wife, sons, daughters, nieces and nephews, all who can join.
My brothers,
Our 64th Reunion was most successful, we installed a new president Mr. Newton Weiss, Vice President Sy Lichtenfeld and William Stahl, and a new treasurer/membership chairman Harry Martin Jr. Our present Treasurer Lyle Beeth resigned due to a health problem at home. Lyle offered a number of recommendations concerning dues and bookkeeping. The Board approved the elimination of sending our dues notices any longer. All veterans and associate members are now considered life members. We will be asking everyone to consider sending in donations as in "life plus".
Our board reluctantly accepted Lyle's resignation. We were fortunate to have him these past few years. His knowledge, his integrity, and his caring will be sorely missed. On a personal note, he was always available to me to assist in matters financial and to research all inquiries. Lyle has promised to remain in touch and looks forward to being with us in 2011.
The board approved donations of $250.00 to Camp Atterbury, $100 to Andersonville, 2 flags to be sent to St. Vith, and $100 to the "Remember Museum" in Belgium. The board also voted to allow associate members to be considered for officer and committee chairmanships in the future. An added proviso, will state that as long as there is a veteran willing and able to serve in any position, the veteran is always first choice. New by-laws will be prepared for the 2011 reunion to vote on.
Murray Stein, 423/I, Ex Comm, Adjutant7614 Charing Cross LaneDelray Beach, FL 33446561-499-7736Greg0803@bellsouth.net
After the memorial on Saturday September 25, 2010, a group of associate members met to discuss the effect of the possible change in the by-laws. Mr. Randall Wood, (son of Robert Wood 423/I) conducted a lively discussion, asking for comments on the proposed by-law change. The response was so very positive. Mr. Wood asked that we send a letter to all associates asking for their comments and willingness to participate in the future of the 106th. They will be asked to respond to Mr. Tom Hoff (acting as secretary), Tom's address is PO Box 298, Warrington, PA. 18976-1636. Randall and Tom indicated that they will keep in touch with me and will of course report at the reunion in Baltimore in 2011.
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Recuperating
My Brothers,
I spoke with Ewell Black this evening [September 27, 2010] and while he is still in a recovering facility [following back surgery], he feels better and expects to be back in his own home in the next couple of weeks.
He also indicated that he wishes to remain as our Chaplain! We look forward to a new Chaplain's Message from Ewell in the next issue of The CUB due out in April 2011.
Thank the good Lord.
Hope all returned home well.
Murray Stein
Rev. Ewell C. Black Jr., 422/A106th Infantry Division Association President 2009–20102000 E-W Conn – Apt. 212Austell, GA 30106770-819-7212 ecb@avillager.org
I am asking all of us, to plan on making the 2011 reunion more of a family outing. Let's try to bring some of our sons and daughters, and grandchildren, like the Wood family, the Hoff family, the Schaffner family, and the Balzarini family. They brighten up our reunions.
Finally, thank you all for the many good wishes-those endless happy birthdays!
Love ya,
Murray Stein P.S.
The tours were excellent; on Thursday we went on that Mississippi boat ride w/lunch. Along the way, we entered a Lock that raised the boat 39 feet and lowered the boat 39 feet on the return trip! A terrific surprise. On Friday, we went to a dinner show, where we were served dinner at our tables, and then we saw one of the best musicals I've seen in many years. A takeoff of Elvis Pressley's "All Shook Up." On Saturday we took a tour of the city. All in all 3 great tours.
We'll try to arrange some good tours next year in Baltimore!
How many of you reading the column have ever picked up a copy of The Declaration of Independence and read it to the end? It is not very long by reading standards. It can be read by the slowest reader in less time than it takes to read only one of the sports pages in the newspaper. I would ask you to look up a copy and spend a few minutes thinking about just what it was that prompted our forefathers to declare their grievances to the all powerful King of England. Take a few minutes to do this. The final words read, "life, fortune, and sacred honor." That is what those men were putting on the table to secure
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all of those liberties and freedoms that we all now enjoy. That is what we call, "Patriotism."
Then there was the Civil War. My good 589th buddy, John Gatens, and I met with Tim Blixt, Associate Member, (and our ladies of course,) at Gettysburg for a guided tour of only a part of this important battle to preserve our nation as E Pluribus Unum. (This motto still appears on U.S. coins, (not the bills)
John R. Schaffner 589/A,
Historian, Past President 2002-2003 1811 Miller Road, Cockeysville, MD 21030 410-584-2754, pumexim2@verizon.net
even though it is no longer the official national motto! That honor was given to In God We Trust in 1956 by an act of Congress). So, this all brings me to the feelings I have about the good old USA. More than ever now the nation is being divided by the use of more than one language. Everywhere one goes the Spanish, and sometimes French, and before too long it will be Muslim, appears on everyday products, manuals that come with appliances, etc. It is not a bad thing to know how to speak another language, but this practice is polarizing our population. It is no longer One From Many. No nation has survived this condition for long. We must promote one language for our nation, else it will eventually become divided, weak, and it will fall like others throughout history. Again, it is up to us to carry the ball.
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Question for you: Do you remember........ ? Answer: Of course I do, every day. This exchange can take place between any two or more of us old veterans any time we meet. Our experience as soldiers ties us as close together
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as any binder. On page ?? of this issue of The Cub you will find an ad for the book, Prisoner's Odyssey, by Herb Sheaner (422/G). I have not read all of the books published about the personal experiences of soldiers during WW II, but I have read a lot of them. I read this one. It is, without reservation, one of the most engaging stories that I have ever read. I was not a POW. This narration acquainted me with what it was like to be a prisoner of the enemy. Any time in the future that I begin thinking that I had a rough time, I will recall this story and quickly realize how good I had it. Thank you, Herb, for this book. Well done.
Many of us are members of other veterans organizations; American Legion, VFW, Ex-POW, etc. I am also a proud member of the VBOB (Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge.) I can't let this opportunity go by without telling you about the recent reunion of this group in Columbia, SC. I know that many of you reading this are also members of the VBOB, and about ten 106th veterans were there. We are home now and it is all over but the shouting. Yes, I am still shouting, and it is all about the wonderful hospitality and terrific agenda that we experienced. I simply wished that all of you could have been there. It is apparent that the South Carolina Chapter had been working on the activities a long time and expending tons of energy in providing for our entertainment and honor. Those volunteers notified the city and all of the important people they could find. Everywhere we went there was a banner across the street with "Welcome Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge" on it with the VBOB logo. The Commander of Fort Jackson and his staff opened the post for our tour of inspection (and lunch in the Dining Facility.) The President of the FN Manufacturing Company opened the factory for our tour escorted by the employees who came in on their day off. (Lunch again courtesy of FN and the gift of a Battle of the Bulge emblazoned T-shirt.) A parade of about 40 antique vehicles, including a Half-Track, Weapons Carrier, and several Jeeps came to the
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hotel to drive us to the USC Stadium for the season opener football game, Again, the President of USC provided an air conditioned room for us to watch the game (with food & drink provided, again.) There was a USO type show in the NG Armory typical of what we experienced in 1943 when we trained at Ft. Jackson with pretty girls and a dance band playing "our" songs to dance by. A big display of our WW II gear was on display at both the hotel and the Armory provided by local WW II Re-enactors. Oh yes, they served food there also. At a luncheon in the Convention Center we were entertained by two very interesting speakers, George Will, newspaper columnist & TV commentator, and General George Patton's grandson, George Patton Waters, who spoke about his grandfather's carrier. We were given ‘challenge coins' on three occasions for souvenirs. One from the FN Manufacturing Co. with our logo on it, one from the Ft. Jackson Post Commander with the Fort and U. S. Army depicted, and one from Col. Waters with the 3rd Army logo on one side and the Battle at Bastogne on the reverse.
I have gone on long enough. Needless to say that what I have said here is a very small part of the great experience that we had. I urge you to become a member of this organization (VBOB), if you are not already, and next time don't stay home.
JRS
NEW CD #5 due out Next Year
Jim West and John Schaffner are If you still have a story to tell, once again undertaking the huge task of contact either of these gentleman and putting together another CD containing let your tale be told. more of the history and stories of the Please see the inside back cover of 106th Infantry Division. this CUB for the current CDs available.
The Lion's Path
By C.J. Kelly
In December 1944, a raw American infantry division has its baptism of fire in the Battle of the Bulge. Caught up in this maelstrom of death and destruction are two very different Americans. Trapped behind enemy lines, they experience the horror of war and a humanity borne of sacrifice.
Available at Amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com
Association Membership As of November 15, 2010
LIFE PLUS DONATIONS:
Associate Bohne, Betty 106 RECON
House, Robert T. 422
Iovannisci, Thomas 422/A
Rev Black, Ewell 424/1 HQ 1 BN
Hirst, Robert A.
Veterans 871
Associates 367
Total Members 1,238
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
In Memory of Milburn R. Raleigh
NEW MEMBERS
422/Cannon Co. Slotkin, Ed
Associate Grachek, Randy
Associate Grachek, Bruce
Associate Goldman, Roberta S.
Associate Hastings, Patti
Associate Lichtenfeld, Eileen
Associate Raedts, Jurgen
Associate Raleigh, Melda W.
YOUR Annual Dues Are NO Longer DUE
If you are an ANNUAL member (not a LIFE member), your annual dues are no longer due. If you read the Adjutants' letter on page 2 you will learn that the board voted at the last meeting to dispense with the annual dues. We are asking for donations, what ever you can give, to help defray the cost of printing and mailing the CUBs. We will also still collect Memorial and Life Plus donations. Please send the check made payable to "106th Infantry Division Association" and mail it to the new treasurer listed below:
Harry F. Martin Jr. (424/L)
121 McGregor Avenue Mount Arlington, NJ 07856 Phone: 973-663-2410 Email:hmartin19@optonline.net
Announcements from the editor of The CUB of the Golden Lion
Hello, my name is William A. McWhorter and I am the editor of The CUB of the Golden Lion (The CUB). I am an admirer of your outfit and hope that I can assist in keeping open the lines of communication for our Association. Please send news items that you would like reviewed for potential inclusion in upcoming issues of The CUB to me. Whenever possible please send them to my e-mail address (williammcwhorter17@gmail.com), if you do decide to send them via postal mail, if possible, please TYPE OR PRINT your messages (it helps me get names spelled correctly). Thank you.
Please report all changes of address and deaths to the NEW Association TREASURER and MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN:
Harry F. Martin Jr. (424/L)
121 McGregor Avenue, Mt Arlington, NJ 07856 Phone: 973-663-2410 E-mail: hmartin19@optonline.net
Sy Lichtenfeld (422/I) would like you to contact him if you are interested in serving on future Boards of the 106th Infantry Division Association. Sy's contact information is slich44@bellsouth.net and is also located on the inside cover of The CUB.
Announcements from the publisher of The CUB of the Golden Lion
I would like to thank everyone who stopped to talk with me at the Reunion and had such kind words regarding The CUB. I also want to publicly share all of your thanks with William the editor, who could not attend.
Correction: Glynn Raby (423/1st BN HQ) wrote the staff at The CUB to let us know that while he appreciated the nod, he must admit he was not associated with sending The CUB staff the entry that served as the cover article from the last issue: Christmas Dinner 1943 with Company F, 423rd Infantry at Fort Jackson, SC.
Mr. Raby wrote that he was a Golden Lion from the time the Division was activated in March 1943 until about April 1944 when he was shipped out as a replacement. In southern England on D Day, he joined Co. H, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division in Normandy and made it through the rest of the war with that unit. As many of us will not, in December 1944, the 422nd Infantry Regiment took over the positions occupied, for over 2 months, by Mr. Raby and the 9th Infantry Regiment.
LETTER TO ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
To our Associates,
At the recent Board of Directors meeting in Minneapolis/St. Paul on September 22, 2010, it was approved to change the By-Laws to allow Associates full membership privileges. Upon approval of the By-Law changes at the 2011 reunion in Baltimore, Associates will be eligible to be nominated to the Board and then to elected Officer positions. The Board of Directors would appreciate any comments and ideas on this change. Mr. Randall Wood, acting as Chairman, asks that your comments should be e-mailed to Mr. Tom Hoff at tjhoff@milesaheadmedia.com or mailed to Thomas Hoff, P.O. Box 298, Warrington PA 18976.
Just a reminder . . .
If you have pictures and information you would like included in a future CUB, the due date is as follows:
For the edition coming out in APRIL 2011 all material is due by FEB. 15
For the edition coming out in AUGUST 2011 all material is due by JUNE 15
For the edition coming out in DECEMBER 2011 -- to include pictures from the 2011 reunion, all material is due by OCTOBER 9
Articles and pictures can be mailed or e-mailed to:
CUB Editor: William McWhorter CUB Publisher: Susan Weiss 166 Prairie Dawn, Kyle, TX 78640 9 Cypress Point Court, 512-970-5637 Blackwood, NJ 08012williammcwhorter17@gmail.com 856-415-2211 sweiss@gccnj.edu
Jim West and the
www.IndianaMilitary.org
Web site
Associate member Jim West has created an excellent Web page at the following address:
http://www.indianamilitary.org/106ID/ Cubs-106/InfoRequest.htm
It is hoped that this new Web page will increase awareness of the 106th Infantry Division Association, and perhaps our membership. Check it out at your earliest convenience.
MY WAR
by Fredrick Smallwood
This is the story of my experiences as a young boy from a small town in south Georgia with the 106th Infantry Division during World War II. I was initially in the A&P Platoon of 1 Bn. Hq. Co. of the 423rd Regiment. I was one of the few who made my way through the German lines back to the Allied lines at St. Vith.
Books are $15 plus $4 for shipping. You can contact me at fsjs@mchsi.com or P.O. Box 1923, Bainbridge, GA 39818.
The Ride Home: A Golden Lion's Experience with a Motor Cycle Group called "Rolling Thunder"
Submitted by John Gatens (589th FAB Battery A) and Mary Vandermast
Arlene Alape is tour director for a bus trip to Branson Missouri, for the Jimmy Sturr Tour agency. Mary Vandermast and I, was on this tour, because Jimmy Sturr Polka Band, was going to tape 10 shows for his TV show. I love Polka music and wanted to go back to Branson, so we signed up for the tour. Arlene, is a very good friend of mine and she knew that I was a POW. On the tour there was a couple that she knew, Carol Beck and her husband John. Arlene knew of their association with the motor cycle group called "Rolling Thunder." She also knew that they helped POW's. Arlene introduced me to both John and Carol. Carol immediately, told me about an event that the Rolling Thunder, put on every time the National Holiday for POW's comes around at Andersonville, Ga. This group is dedicated to making sure that all POW's, MIA's and Gold Star Mothers are not forgotten. For many years, they have been inviting all POW's, MIA's family members and Gold Star Mothers, to Andersonville, Ga., POW Museum, for a three day Remembrance Ceremony. All you have to do is get there. All motel, food, transportation and ceremonies are free of charge. Carol and John both convinced me that I should go. Mary and I took them up on the offer. Being born in Scotland, how could I pass this free thing up. Mary and I went.
To tell you how much these people are really sincere in there in feelings for their cause, here is one example. When I called the airport for flight information, I found out that I would have to land in Atlanta, Ga. I knew that Andersonville was a long way from Atlanta. E-mailed the George, that was the person that you made all of the arrangements with and asked what I should do. His answer was, rent a car and drive to Andersonville. I, e-mailed him back and told him, that I was too old to rent a car and drive over 100 miles in a land that I was not familiar with. Less than ½ hour later,
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Carol, called me and said that she would pick us up and drive us down to Andersonville and back to the airport. Now, can any group in the world, beat the Love of this group.
The Superintendent of the National Parks, had the biggest tent that I have ever seen, erected in the parking lot. It must have been at least 50 or 60 yards long. Completely Air Conditioned. On Thursday 9/16, we were taken by bus and there were four of them, to the tent for a POW/MIA Recognition Reception. This was sponsored by "The Friends of Andersonville." There was a very good Buffet and welcoming speeches. Friday 9/17, This was something that would put a lump in your throat. The four buses took us to the Wal-mart parking lot. In the parking lot there must have been at least 100 Rolling Thunder Members with their motorcycles and most had riders with them. I also, was invited to ride on the back of one of them, but did not accept the offer. There also were four Police cars. The parade started with the Police stopping all traffic and leading us to Andersonville. What a sight, to see all of the motorcycles riding two in a line at a slow speed. The News Papers had a very large spread about the parade and many people were on the side of the road, waving to us and waving flags.
When we arrived at the Museum open field, there was a Traveling Vietnam Wall erected on the grounds. At that area, there were rows of chairs set up for us to sit on, for the ceremonies. I can't remember the names of the speakers. The ceremony was solemn and respectful of the brave men that did not come back. There was free time for everyone to view the Museum and tour the grounds. At 6:00-7:30 PM, there was a Heroes Dinner Banquet in the air conditioned tent. Another great meal and guest speakers that made us feel like HEROES. After dinner we had a Candlelight Ceremony at the Vietnam Wall. This was to Honor the Goldstar Mothers. Each mother had a Rolling Thunder Member escort them arm and arm down and along the wall. Each was presented with a rose. On Saturday 9/18, starting again and the same Police and motorcycle riders and buses, had another parade to the Museum. This time in the tent, they had chairs set in parallel rows from the stage extending towards the back of the tent. Each chair, had a POW's name and row number on it. As we entered the Tent, A Rolling Thunder would take you by the arm an escort you to the chair assigned to you. After the speeches thanking us for what we had been through and an invitation to attend again next year, we were greatly surprised. All of the Rolling Thunder Members marched into the row of seats and stopped so that one member was opposite a POW. The speaker would read his name, unit, date of capture and date of release. Then the Rollin Thunder that was in front of that person, would reach over and put a beautiful set of Dog Tags around his neck. He or she would take one step back and Salute the POW. This is something that I will never forget. After all of the Dog Tags where presented to the POW's, there was a social, where everyone said their good-byes to old friends and new friends. Thanking all the members for their kindness and well wishes, we departed the tent and the buses where lined up to take us back to our Motel and relax for the trip home.
When I received the invitation to attend, I had no idea about what it would be like. It turned out to be one great affair. Rolling Thunder went all out to make us feel special and succeeded with flying colors. God Bless them all. My special thanks go to Carol and John Beck. They treated us like one of their own. To all the new friends that we met, we will never forget you.
When I told one of the leaders of this year's gathering, that I was going to the Reunion of my own Division, next week, he asked me to please tell the members about this year's ceremony. Also tell all POWs that they are invited to come next. The same rules apply, everything is free, once you are there. You also can bring family members, however they would not be free, only you and your wife or companion are free.
A 65-Year-Old Promise Honored
Submitted by Jim Forsythe, Company A, 424th
A promise made in Stalag 12A, a German prisoner of war camp in 1945, honored on July 10, 2010 by a Son.
We POW‘s were always hungry (many starved to death) and the topic of the day was always food. Myself and Henry Grachek, a close friend from Co. A, 424th were in a group of POWs at Stalag 12A.
We were talking about our favorite food, when Henry Gracheck, who was from St. Cloud, Minnesota related as to how good the Polish Sausage was back home. I being from Arkansas responded that I had never known of, nor had eaten Polish Sausage, however I certainly would like to eat some. Henry responded that when we got home he would send me some of the finest Polish Sausage in the state. Well we did get home, however we were very busy picking up our lives in our own areas and didn't talk about our experiences while we were POWs. Furthermore, we did not have each other's addresses.
In 2009, Henry Gracheck's eldest son, Randy Gracheck, located and contacted me by e-mail.
He was anxious to talk with someone that knew his father and could tell him of the ‘actual conditions' his father experienced in the war, especially in the POW camp. We e-mailed each other several times and I mentioned how much his father loved Polish Sausage and especially the sausage made in his vicinity of Minnesota.
Henry Grachek
On July 10, 2010, 65 years after his father's promise, I received a package of the finest Polish Sausage from Randy. This is a show of dedication and comradeship that nobody understands unless you were there. [At the time of this letter's arrival to the editor of The CUB] Randy and a younger brother had planned to attend the 106th Division Reunion in Minneapolis [and they did.]
I will indeed be an honor to visit with two Honorable Young Men.
Jim Forsythe shortly after induction into the U.S. Army
Jim Forsythe with Henry Grachek's sons Randy and Bruce Grachek, at the 64th Reunion.
Plzen Remembers (Czech Republic)
Submitted by Fredrick Smallwood
I'm not personally acquainted with the Czech Republic, as I never got that far across Europe during the war. I did spend some time in Belgium and have returned three times since the war in 1989, 1990, and 2000. Wherever I went, many if not all the people couldn't thank me enough on behalf of the United States for "Liberating them from the Evil Conqueror." Their words not mine. It is good that someone remembers and does appreciate what we as a nation and as individual soldiers did to give them Democracy.
Have you ever wondered if anyone in Europe remembers America's sacrifice in World War II? There is an answer in a small town in the Czech Republic. The town is called Pilsen (Plzen).
Every five years Plzen conducts the Liberation Celebration of the City of Plzen in the Czech Republic. May 6, 2010 marked the 65th anniversary of the liberation of Plzen by General George Patton's 3rd Army. Plzen is the town that every American should visit. Because…..they love America and the American Soldier even 65 years later by the thousands the citizens of Plzen came to say thank you lining the streets for miles. From large crowds… To quiet reflective moments…
I am happy to see that the Czech people are teaching their children about America's sacrifice for their freedom. American Soldiers, young and old, are the ‘'Rock Stars'' these children and their parents want autographs from. Yes, Rock Stars!
God Bless Plzen! And God Bless the USA.
Vonnegut Memorial Library Finds Home in Indianapolis
Submitted by Jim West (Written by Rick Callahan of the Associated Press)
INDIANAPOLIS--Three years after his death, pieces of Kurt Vonnegut's life are coming together in his hometown, where a new library will chronicle the "Slaughterhouse Five" author's harrowing World War II experiences and his works that struck a chord with the Vietnam generation.
The Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library, scheduled to open fall 2010 in downtown Indianapolis, will be part library and part museum, with a collection including first editions of his books, a replica of his writing studio, his Purple Heart and rejection letters that preceded his success.
The 1,100-square-foot space also will house an art gallery featuring his distinctive line drawings and a gift shop that will help generate income for the nonprofit library, said Julia Whitehead, the museum's executive director and founder. Whitehead approached Vonnegut's son, Mark, in 2008 and proposed the idea of a memorial center. Weeks later, all three of Vonnegut's children signed on. Vonnegut's eldest daughter, Edie Vonnegut, said her father loved libraries and would have wanted visitors library are some of his rejection letters. "We have boxes of rejection letters, letters saying ‘You have no talent and we suggest you give up writing,'" she said. "He did not have an easy time of it, and I think for anyone who wants to be writer, it will be important for them to see how tough it was for him."
Vonnegut worked as a reporter, in public relations for General Electric and later sold Saabs on Cape Cod before finding success in the 1960s with darkly comic, satirical works that combined social commentary, science fiction and autobiography. He was born into an affluent German-American family in 1922 and left Indianapolis for good when he went to college in 1940, but he returned periodically for visits. He died in 2007 at 84. As a young man, he faced a string of tragedies -- including his mother's 1944 suicide just before his Army unit left for Germany. Later that year he was taken prisoner during the Battle of the Bulge and eventually imprisoned in Dresden, Germany. There, he witnessed the Allied fire-bombing. Vonnegut's account of that ordeal eventually became the cult classic "Slaughterhouse Five."
Sidney Offit, a fellow author and longtime friend of Vonnegut's, expects the library to give visitors a sense of his complexity, creativity, his triumph over tragedies and his worries about humanity's future. "I hope they get a full vision
to learn about his perseverance in the of a man who was one of those rarities, face of dismissive publishers. who was like his work. He was a writer Among the items she's loaning the who, when you read him, you heard
him," he said. Offit is giving the library copies of letters Vonnegut sent him and the bound galleys of two of Vonnegut's books.
Vonnegut lectured regularly and exhorted audiences to think for themselves, warning that modern society was dehumanizing them. The library hopes to carry on those ideals, partly through its writing programs for high school and college students emphasizing Vonnegut's works. The library, which opens in November, will feature items that belong to his three children, including a photo of their father just after his release as a POW, a Nazi sword he brought home as a souvenir, his cigarette-stained Smith Corona typewriter and a portrait of him by artist Joseph Hirsch.
Books and memorabilia that will be used in the Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library are shown in Indianapolis on Aug. 13. The library will open in November. (Michael Conroy/ Associated Press)
Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/arts/ books/story/2010/08/18/vonnegut-library. html#ixzz15qK9YXO2
Shadows of Slaughterhouse Five
from Ervin Szpek Jr., Associate Member
Ervin Szpek Jr. (Associate Member) is pleased to announce after many years of research that his and his colleagues' book on the infamous Arbeitskommando Slaughterhouse Five has been released. Nearly every man of this POW work camp (near Dresden, Germany) originated from the 106th Infantry Division including former 106th Association President, Gifford Doxsee. The book is their story, in their words, and accounts for nearly every POW at the camp; it also chronicles the recollections and reflections of the 150 American Ex-POWs, many of whom are members of the Association. Newly released by iUniverse press at www.iUniverse.com, the book is also available at www.amazon.com and
www.BarnesandNoble.com. With best wishes for 2010 and with appreciation for your efforts –– thank you.
Burton Pfaff's Honor Flight
Submitted by his daughter Sandra
Burt (Dad) participated in a Stars and Stripes Honor Flight to Washington, DC on 11/6/2010. The trip was fully paid for WWII veterans and organized by volunteers. He was very excited about it and also honored. Two of his grandchildren, Iraqi vets themselves, greeted him when he landed. As part of the event, a "mail call" was arranged for the return flight. This was in remembrance of how much veterans looked forward to getting mail and hearing from their loved ones. Burt is still reading and rereading those letters.
Burton Pfaff was a 19 year-old from Wisconsin when he joined the 106th at Camp Atterbury, Indiana in April 1944. Prior to joining the 106th he had trained in Battery B 391st Coastal Artillery (40mm) at Camp Davis, near Wilmington, North Carolina, and attended Twin-Engine flight School at George Field near Lawrenceville, Ill.
At Camp Atterbury, Sergeant Pfaff was assigned as assistant squad leader of 1st Squad, 2nd Platoon, B Company, 1st Battalion, 422nd Regiment, 106th Infantry Division. In June 1944 Burt was promoted to Staff Sergeant and became 1st Squad's leader. Five months later SSG Pfaff found himself high atop the Schnee Eifel looking into Germany. Combat action started for him on the morning of 16 December 1944, when fixing attacks, designed to hold the 422nd in place, where launched by the German 18th Volksgrenadiers along the 422nd's front. Three days later Pfaff and the rest of his regiment found themselves cut off and were ordered to attempt a break-out through Schoenberg. As the first troops of C Company crossed Skyline Drive, near Schoenberg, they came under fire. A and B Companies were hit as they moved out of their assembly areas.
The 422nd surrendered that morning of 19 December 44. Pfaff would spend the next 5 months in prisoner of war camps. He was liberated from Bad Sulza on 11 April 45, by the 6th Armored Division. Burt was transferred as a litter case to Reims and then on to Paris. Pfaff left Europe from Cherbourg aboard the Aleda E. Lutz hospital ship. Arriving in Charlestown, South Caroline he was then sent to Chicago's Gardner General Hospital. By August 1945 Burt was strong enough to celebrate V-J Day in the streets of Chicago, with his wife Jayne, who herself had joined the WAAC's when Burt went overseas. A year later his first daughter was born.
Burt Pfaff, his mother and sister in 1943
Photos continue on next page, top.
Burt Pfaff, at the World War II memorial during his Stars and Stripes Honor Flight to Washington, DC on 11/6/2010
A Letter to the Editor
Submitted by Joseph T. Salerno (423/B)
Recently the Veterans Administration (VA) announced: The ‘New Veteran Medallion Burial Benefit Option' available to veterans survivors for our "Brothers-in-Arms" who were buried in private cemeteries with private headstones and who did not request a VA footstone because of the excessive costs cemeteries charged to set foundation and install the footstone.
However, the medallion is limited to only veterans who have passed away after November 1, 1990. This is unfair to a great many veterans from World War II including many with whom we served and/or suffered as POW captives. Whose families for a variety of reasons had their veteran buried privately at a family plot or next to their spouse. It's not only unfair it's discriminatory.
I'm confident many of our 106th brothers passed away between the war's end and November 1990, including those who died in battle and were brought stateside by family for local burial. Yet, [due to] an arbitrary date, denied this honor they too so rightfully deserve! Therefore, may I suggest that those few of us who still remain take the initiative in contacting your congressional representatives to have the ruling amended to assure having veterans from all wars be entitled to the medallion if otherwise eligible and not be penalized for dying too soon. I very much hope the association leadership will review this ruling and take a lead in having it revised.
Joseph (JOE) Salerno, Company B-423rd Infantry 167 Goldfinch Drive Monroe Twp, NJ 08831 Tel: 609-655-7782 E-mail: jts167@hwmail.net
Representing the 106th
Frank S. Trautman, 422/D, attended
memorial services that took place all over Indiana representing the 106th. He submitted these copies of the ceremony programs. Also attending the camp Atterbury memorial Commemoration was Paul Wagner, 423/B.
Front & Center . . .
Photos of the 2010 Annual Reunion of the 106th Infantry Division Association
Top left: Harold Kuizema officiating at our Memorial service, stepping in for Rev. Ewell Black, who was unable to attend.
Left: Laying of the Memorial Wreath by John Schaffner and ________________. Incoming President, Newt Weiss at podium.
Top right: World War II Memorial in park across from state capitol building in Minnieapolis, during bus tour.
The above photos were submitted by Susan Weiss, Publisher of The CUB of the Golden Lion.
Front & Center . . .
Photos submitted by Associate Member Janet Wood, daughter of Robert Wood).
Top: All attending Past Presidents of the 106th Infantry Division Association. Left: Mr. and Mrs. Murray Stein Above: Murray Stein and Russ Lang.
Left to right: John Schaffner, Jack Roberts, Grace Truman and 2010
Order of the Golden Lion
recipient Harry Martin.
Photo submitted by Associate Member Tom Hoff (of Milesahead Media), son of Russell Hoff (422/M)
September 2010
64th Reunion of the 106th Infantry Division Association, Minneapolis, MNAll Veterans in attendance, at the banquet.
Just out of the shot on the far left were thesetwo veterans Photos submitted by Associate Member
Tom Hoff (of Milesahead Media), son of Russell Hoff (422/M)
The Order of the Golden Lion
(Reprinted from The CUB of the Golden Lion, Vol 60 – No. 3)
The Editor of The CUB of the Golden Lion wanted to share details regarding the origin of the Association's "Order of the Golden Lion" with new Veteran and Associate Members.
On 25 May, 1947, the Board of Directors of the 106th Infantry Division Association founded the Order of the Golden Lion to honor, render homage and thanks to fiercely faithful friends and to those who have rendered outstanding service to the DIVISION in peacetime.
The Order consists of three classes: Commander, Officer, Companion. The class of Commander is conferred only by unanimous vote of the entire Board of Directors. It is evidenced by presentation of a citation scroll enumerating the reasons whereon the award is based and the presentation of a golden bas relief of a medallion of a lion's head to be suspended from the neck by a red, white and blue ribbon.
The Class of Officer is conferred only by three quarters vote of the entire Board of Directors. It is evidenced by presentation of a citation scroll enumerating the reasons whereon the award is based and the presentation of a silver bas relief medallion of a lion's head to be suspended from the neck by a ribbon of infantry blue. The Class of Companion is conferred by a majority vote of the Board of Directors. It is evidenced by presentation of a citation scroll enumerating the reasons whereon the award is based and the presentation of a bronze bas relief medallion of a lion's head suspended from an artillery red ribbon with invisible pin.
September 1947: The Board of Directors in meeting assembled the Twenty Fifth Day of May in the Year Nineteen Hundred and Forty Seven.
To All to Whom These Presents May Come
Whereas, during the brief but glorious life of the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION OF THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, its friends were legion, and
Whereas, those friends contributed greatly to the health, happiness, and morale of the soldiers of the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION, and
Whereas, during the dark, terrible days of the BATTLE OF THE ARDENNES, when the insidious propaganda of the enemy cast aspersions upon the loyalty and valor of the members of the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION when it could not protect itself because of security regulations, yet its friends remained fiercely loyal in the face of dark despair, and
Whereas, after the dawn of Peace, the loyalty of it's friends continued and expanded and new friends were added, and
Whereas, many of these new friends have rendered outstanding devotion and service to the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION, and its ASSOCIATION which was born in the citadel of the arrogant enemy who would have ruled the world for a thousand years after having conquered the enemy by the will of God and with the thought of loved ones and hearths defended, though on shores far distant from them, and
Whereas, the loyalty of those friends will continue so long as one wearer of the honored insigne of the GOLDEN LION shall live, and
Whereas, the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION, representing the Golden Lions both living and those, who have answered the last roll call, wishes to honor those fiercely faithful friends and those who have rendered outstanding service to the DIVISION in peacetime, now therefore, be it Resolved, that pursuant to the powers vested in it by the Constitution and By Laws, the BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION ordains, and does hereby ORDAIN, that there shall be established The Order of the Golden Lion whereby to render homage and thanks to those friends, and orders, and does hereby ORDER the establishment of the following rules and regulations:
Order One. The ORDER OF THE GOLDEN LION shall consist of three classes: Commander, Officer, and Companion.
Order Two. The class of Commander of the Golden Lion may be conferred only by unanimous vote of the entire Board of Directors. At the first reunion of the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION not to exceed five Commanders may be elected, and thereafter only one per annum, which number may be cumulative. The Commander class award shall be evidenced by a citation scroll enumerating the reasons whereon the award is based, and by the presentation of a golden bas relief medallion of a lion's head,
Continues on page 26
with a diameter not to exceed two and one half inches, to be suspended from the neck by a ribbon of one and one half inches width, of equal stripes of red , white, and blue, the colors of the DIVISION as well as of our Country. The reverse side of the medallion shall bear the legend ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE and the name of the recipient engraved thereon
. Order Three. The class of Officer of the Golden Lion may be conferred only by three quarters vote of the entire Board of Directors. At the first reunion of the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION not to exceed five Officers may be elected and thereafter not to exceed two per annum which number shall not be cumulative. The Officer class award shall be evidenced by a citation scroll enumerating the reasons whereon the award is based, and by the presentation of a silver bas relief medallion of a lion's head with a diameter not to exceed two and one half inches, to be suspended from the neck by a ribbon of one inch width of the color infantry blue. The reverse side of the medallion shall bear the legend ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE and the name of the recipient engraved thereon.
Order Four. The class of Companion of the Golden Lion may be conferred by majority vote of the Board of Directors. At the first Re-union of the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION ASSOCIATION not to exceed ten Companions may be elected and thereafter not to exceed five per annum which number shall not be cumulative. The Companion class award shall be evidenced by a citation scroll enumerating the reasons whereon the award is based, and the presentation of a bronze bas relief medallion of a lion's head with a diameter not to exceed two and one half inches, to be suspended from an artillery red ribbon with invisible pin. The reverse side of the medallion shall bear the legend ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE and the name of the recipient engraved thereon.
Order Five. No officer, enlisted man, or civilian under War Department orders, as-signed or attached to the ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH INFANTRY DIVISION during any part of the period twenty ninth of November nineteen hundred forty two and second October nineteen hundred and forty five, shall be eligible for membership in the ORDER OF THE GOLDEN LION for service of any nature whatsoever during that period, but may become eligible through outstanding and devoted services rendered after that period.
Done at the City of Washington, District of Columbia, this Twenty Fifth day of May in the Year of our Lord, One Thousand Nine Hundred and Forty Seven.
Attested
For the Board of Directors -- Herbert B. Livesey, Jr., Secretary and David S. Price, President
Front & Center . . .
Washington State Veterans Cemetery
Submitted by Donald Head (423/G)
The Washington State Veterans Cemetery at Medical Lake near Spokane, Washington was dedicated on May 30, 2010. The cemetery consists of 80 acres, and over 200 veterans and/or spouses have already been buried there.
Mr. Head raised the POW-MIA fl ay presented to him by Governor Christine Gregoire. The flag had been flown over the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. Fellow ex-POWs were in attendance, and our chapter purchased a bench for use by the public. The plaque in the photo indicates a gift from our local chapter in Spokane. Mr. Head was captured on 12/19/1944 during the Battle of the Bulge and spent four months in Stalag 9A & 9B.
Front & Center . . .
1947: The 1st Reunion of the 106th Infantry Division Association (Indianapolis, IN) Photos
Submitted by John Rain (589th FA BN)
(Left to Right) John Gallagher, Don Hinrichs, Marion Ray, Mr. Joe E. Brown (whose son was in the 106th I.D.) and Jack Rain.
(Back Row, Left to Right): General Perrin, General McMann, News Commentator Cedric Foster (friend and protector of the 106th), John Gallagher, Don Hinrichs and Marion Ray.
(Front Row, Left to Right): General Jones, unknown, Jack Rain, unknown, unknown and unknown.
The Golden Lion Song
(Reprinted from The CUB of the Golden Lion, Vol. 40 No.1)
The Editor of the Cub of the Golden Lion wanted to share the Golden Lion Song with new veteran members and Associate Members:
/
Veterans Day Recognition for the 106th Infantry Division Michigan Veterans
Submitted by Associate Tom Roberts for Ellsworth H. Schanerberger (331st Med D)
On November 7, 2010, in recognition of Veterans Day November 11, the 106th Infantry Division was honored at FORD FIELD by the DETROIT LIONS in Detroit, MI when the DETROIT LIONS football team played the NEW YORK JETS. Arrangements for the recognition were made by Ellsworth Schanerberger (331/MED) who has been a DETROIT LIONS season ticket holder since 1934.
The four members of the Michigan 106th veterans group were able to be present during the pre-game recognition were: Ellsworth Schanerberger (331/MED); Francis Cook (422/H); Tony Rand (589/B) and John M. "Jack" Roberts (592/C). The veterans were seated on the DETROIT LIONS playing field bench before entering the center of the field at the 50 yard line with the Color Guard for presenting of the Colors and the playing of the National Anthem.
The game announcer told the 65,000 fans present that veterans of the 106th Infantry Division of WW II were present and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. The thunderous roar and applause was breath taking.
During the entire ceremony the TV camera was focused on the four veterans and displayed on the huge score boards at each end of the field. Each veteran was recognized individually by name and shown on the score board where each received his own applause.
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Left of Color Guard: Tony Rand and Francis Cook.Right of Color Guard: Jack Roberts and Ellsworth Schanerberger
Front & Center . . .
It truly was a special day for the four veterans who were gratified to see the recognition that the 106th Infantry Division received from the DETROIT LIONS fans. The LIONS official photographers took 15 pictures of the entire recognition proceedings
L TO R: Ellsworth Schanerberger (331/MED); Francis Cook (422/H); Tony Rand (589/B)
and John M. "Jack" Roberts (592/C). Bill Martin (424/C) was also in attendance
Right to left: Ellsworth Schanerberger and Jack Roberts
(NOTE: The 106th Golden Lions symbol and recognition appears on the score board
Veterans and Family of the 106th Infantry Division TATTOO Requests
With space in The CUB at a premium, yet Reunited Buddies and Their Families an important commodity, the editor of The CUB of the Golden Lion created the following list [In Their Own Words, most often] of inquires submitted to me in hopes of helping people get in touch with the 106th I.D. Association Family. The following are requests for information. Feel free to contact them if you believe you can be of assistance. The Cub staff has received permission from all listed below to print their inquiry and their contact e-mail (phone and address when available).
In addition, Associate Member Connie Pratt Baseman, daughter of Lt. Gerald Pratt (Field Artillery), has been one of three people helping to manage the 106th's online ‘message board' (set up by Jim West) for people to write an inquiry looking for comrades or for people who might have known a relative who is now gone. Sadly, some inquires sit unanswered when the answers may be out there with a reader of The CUB who doesn't use a computer. The list has gotten quite long and she has asked that whenever there is room in The CUB that we add a few of the requests. You can find messages like these below, along with other searches on the 106th Message Board at the following Web address: http://106thdivision.proboards.com/index.cgi
Information about Pvt. Robert L. Watson, Co. B/423rd Combat Infantry Regiment
Pete Schreiber, WWII researcher and Life Associate Member of the 106th Infantry Division Association is seeking information on or the whereabouts of Pvt. Robert L. Watson (#36837740) who was in Co. B, 423rd Combat Infantry Regiment, 106th Infantry, U.S. Army. Pvt. Watson enlisted in Milwaukee, WI and his place of separation upon returning from the war was MGH Galesburg, IL. Pvt. Watson had been seriously wounded and captured during the first week of the Battle of the Bulge (12-211944), and ultimately was transported to a German POW camp/lazarette at Stalag IV-G Leipzig-Wahren, Germany. Researching my father's WWII documents, I determined that my father and Pvt. Watson were in the same ward of the Stalag IV-G lazarette. The POW camp/lazarette was liberated by U.S. forces on 4-20-1945. Pvt. Watson recovered from his wounds and may have gone on to become a doctor. Thanks in advance to the 106th members for any assistance that you could provide me in my research. I can be reached at pschreiber@virtualaw.com or (909)-798-6745.
Ron Denham
I am a life member of the 106th Infantry Division Association in honor of my father, T-5 Edgar J. Denham, a cavalryman in Troop "B" of the 18th CRS of the 14th Cavalry Group, which was ordered into line at Bleialf in support of the 423rd. I wish to thank Carl Wouters for his clear and precise account of the first couple of days of the Battle of the Bulge as it unfolded in Bleialf. His account helps flesh out the snippets I recall my father telling me about his two harrowing days of combat. The two photographs with his article are the only ones I have ever seen of this area of the battle. If anyone else has recollections and/or photos of the battle in or near Bleialf I will pay to get a copy of it/them.
Continued on page 34
Dad recalled the American forces being able to hold off the German assault on December 16th. It wasn't until the 17th that they broke through. In a telephone call sometime the morning of the 17th with Captain Fossland (Cmdr, Troop "B"), Col Cavendar (Cmdr. 423rd) gave him permission to withdraw his unit back to Winterscheid, a kilometer or so to the west of Bleialf. My father was sitting in the farmhouse Troop "B" had used as its CP, taking a break after destroying stores when he and his group were taken prisoners and sent on their way to the stalags, about 3 pm in the afternoon he recalled.
I've been to Bleialf and Winterscheid, both on the 50th anniversary of the day of my dad's capture. I remember stopping by a memorial on the road from St. Vith that honors the men of the 106th. It was bedecked with flowers and I was touched. The men of the 106th are heroes to me as are the men of the 14th Cavalry Group.
Edgar Denham was part of a squad that had been ordered to destroy stores before retreating. After completing that task they were sitting in a large farmhouse (probably the big house on the ridge in Wintersheid that Troop B had used as its CP) when a German soldier opened the door and uttered something in German, pointing a machine pistol (probably a Schmeisser) at the Americans. One of the GIs had his M-1 between his legs with the barrel pointed up; he tried to lower the barrel at the German but rushed and his shot went into the overhead door jamb. At that the German opened fire spraying around the room. When the firing ceased Edgar Denham found himself on the floor, alive, and unwounded while the men on either side of him had been shot in the stomach. Denham never understood how escaped their fate. Denham tried to attend to one of them, Bill Parlin was his name, but the German stuck the barrel of his weapon in Denham's face and said "raus!" Denham remembered pushing the barrel out of his face and saying something along the lines of "get outta here." The German, however, came back more insistent, louder, poking Denham with his barrel and said, louder this time "raus!"
And with that he was marched off to interrogation. Denham remembered it as an old castle but Carl Wouters' article said the captured Americans from the 106th were collected in the churchyard of the Pfarrkirche St. Marien. Denham's interrogation probably occurred here. He recalled being brought before a German Officer, he said it was a Captain. He saluted. The officer said "Zo, vat do you zink of your Mr. Roosevelt now?" Denham shrugged his shoulders and answered "He's a pretty good Joe." Denham recalled the officer furiously jumping up from his chair and slamming his fist on the table he used as a desk: "vas ist das Good Joe?" Denham said, "Oh, it means fine fellow, you know, like your Herr Hitler." The German officer merely grunted in reply. Denham, who had noticed a pair of woolen socks on the desk, asked the officer if he could have them for his feet? And the officer agreed and gave him the socks! Denham later claimed those socks from that German officer saved his feet from frostbite during the march to Erolstein (sp?) and the long cold train ride to Bad Orb and Stalag IXB.
Denham was subsequently transferred to Stalag IXA and liberated by elements of Paton's 3rd Army on Good Friday, March 30, 1945.
Submitted by Ron Denham, rdenham1962@sbcglobal.net
Mr. Ed Cottingham CDR, CEC, USN (Ret) submitted the following for publication.
I am an associate member of the Association, and have been to only one reunion. This was the one following the death of my
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father, who was in the 106th for a couple of years beginning with mid-December 1944. He was an early replacement in 422/K. It was a real pleasure meeting some of his old shipmates, and I was hoping to be with you at the Minneapolis Reunion this past September, but was not able to do so. One thing I was hoping to do at the reunion was to find out if any of the vets from the 424th Regiment were planning to visit Belgium (or any of the other places they served) in the near future. I would dearly love to accompany such a tour with them. Would anyone planning such a trip please contact me at edward527@cox.net.
106th Infantry Division Bolo Ties
A mix-up on a recent order for Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge [VBOB] bolo ties resulted in the VBOB's supplier sending them 50 (fifty) 106th Infantry Division bolo ties. The supplier now has these on hand and the VBOB would like to help him move them. He has been a faithful supplier to them for over 20 years and the VBOB wants to help.
If you would like to purchase a 106th I.D. Bolo Tie contact Mr. Leslie L. Brown at (918) 742-7133. You can then send check payments to him at 4132 East 36th Place, Tulsa, OK 74135.
Prisoner's Odyssey
by Herb Sheaner (422/G)
Prisoner's Odyssey is a story of survival, hunger and reflection from a teenaged prisoner of war inside Germany near the end of WWII.
From capture at the Battle of The Bulge to the final escape from his German guards, Herb Sheaner allows us a glimpse into the despair and agony of being a prisoner in a foreign land. During World War II, Herb Sheaner served as a private first class in Company G, 422nd Regiment of the 106th Infantry Division. After receiving ASTP training at University of Alabama he joined the 106th at Camp Atterbury in Indiana where he earned Expert Rifleman honors and was designated Co. G Sniper and Regimental Scout. Fifty years later he recalls his experience.
Available through Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com and Xlibtis online.
Mini-Reunions . . .
The Importance of a Mini Reunion
by Ed Christianson 331st MedBn/CMini-Reunion Chairman
Of corollary importance to our Annual Reunions are the individual "minireunions" which are held throughout the year in various locations around the country. In the past, a reunion provided a social event whereby men of the 106th and their ladies gather close to that infamous date of 16 December to remember fellow men with whom they served.
A dozen or more years ago The CUB would be filled with pictures and stories of men proudly gathered under a banner of the "Golden Lion." I am sad to report that for the year 2009 only 14 mini-reunions were reported. For these groups I am thankful and I encourage you to keep it up. For others whose interests may have dwindled, or haven't gotten around to hosting a reunion yet, I invite you to do so this year. I assure you that it will be a satisfying experience for you. If you need further encouragement please contact me. My contact information is on the inside cover of this CUB.
Fraternal Regards,
Ed
2010 Michigan 106th Infantry Mini-Reunion
LTC Henderson's current command is that of the 783rd Military Police Battalion. His past 25 years of service have included being Provost Marshall , Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Operations Offi cer JTC-GITMO and many other assignments. His talk went into detail about the operations of the Military Police and its role as part of the Army. We all were intrigued with the kind of work that he and his command does in the Army.
LTC Henderson did his personal research on the 106th Infantry Division and its role in holding back the Germans during the first days of the Battle of the Bulge. He congratulated those veterans present at the dinner, as well as those who served with the Division during the war, holding their heroic actions in war in high esteem. Most of those present were not aware of the depth of the inner working of the Military Police. His talk was extremely interesting.
As prior military speakers have done at the Michigan Min-reunion, , LTC Henderson arrived early to the dinner and Jack Roberts personally escorted him to each table to introduce him to the 106th veterans and guests. He took time at each table to converse with them and answer questions. LTC Henderson is a very personable officer and was well received as the guest speaker on October 24.
Chairman John M. "Jack" Roberts with LT COL Robert Henderson at the Michigan 106th veterans Mini-reunion dinner, October 24, 2010 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Livonia, MI.
Mini-Reunions . . .
Photo: Veterans, family, friends and guests in attendance at the October 24, 2010 Michigan 106th veterans Mini-reunion dinner at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Livonia, MI.
Photo: (Back Row L to R): Harold Ortwine, (592/C); John Plotkowski (424/HQ 1 BN); Jim Stewart (424/Anti Tank); LT COL Robert Henderson; Jack Roberts (592/C); Captain Kristin Doneth (Adjutant & Company Commander, U.S. Tank & Automotive Command) (Front Row L to R): Rudy Aittama (106 RECON); Francis Cook (422/H); Tony Rand (589/B); Harold Kuizema (589/B); Bill Martin (424/C); Ellsworth Schanenberger (331/MED 1); Dick Rutz (590 HQ).
Mini-Reunions . . .
Fourth Annual Reunion of Company A/424th Infantry Regiment
Submitted by Melissa Cavallini
The Fourth annual reunion of Company A, 424 Regiment, 106th Infantry Division was held at the home of Dwight and Ruth Stokes near Dover, TN on September 26–28, 2010.
Attending were Jesse Hight, daughter Susan and her husband, Mike Ortmeier, Hugh and June Shearin and J.D. Forsythe. Also attending were Bill and Sandra Cashion. Bill is the son of Wm. W. Cashion who was the captain of Company A and who was captured and died as the result of an air raid on the city where prisoners of war were being held. Kenneth Johnson was also a war casualty, and his brother, Harold Johnson, and wife, Caroline also attended. Greg Stokes, Linda Stokes Watters, her husband, Chris, granddaughter, Melissa Watters Cavallini and her family, grandson, Adam Watters and his family were also present.
A highlight of the event was the appearance of members of the Western Kentucky Modal A Restorers Club who came on Monday afternoon to treat the veterans and their families to a tour of the area in their Model A automobiles.
We all enjoyed visiting with everyone, reminiscing about our experiences and getting acquainted once again. The event was co-sponsored by J. D. Forsythe. We all hope to be able to meet again next year if health permits.
Editor's Special Notification:
HANNON, PHILIP 81st Eng.
-- Date of Death: August 27, 2010.
Phil was a long time member of the 106th Association and Ex-POW.
Reported by Mark Hannon (son), and submitted by John Schaffner
BENGL, CHARLES 424/MED
-- Date of Death: October 30, 2010.
Reported by his daughter Karen Huntsberger to Susan Weiss
GRANTHAM, GORDON 423/M
---Date of Death: May 12, 2010
1413 Milestone Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20409
Mr. Grantham, died as a patient in Hill Haven Assisted Living of Cardiac Arrest at age 86. He is survived by his wife of more than 66 years Mabel Grantham, his daughter Denise and Son in Law Mark, Sister Lucille and a host of grandchildren.
Reported by Mabel R. Grantham, widow
LAPATO, FRANK 422ND
-- Date of Death: October 14, 2010. Rayburn, PA
Mr. Lapato served in the Battle of the Bulge and was taken prisoner by the Germans. He was very active with the 106th Infantry Division Association when is health would permit. He has attended all the mini-reunions since their inception. He was most active in the monthly meetings at the VA in Pittsburgh. He served on the Board of Directors in years past. Among other organizations, he was a member of the American Ex-POWs Association and the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge. Mr. Maloney and his wife will miss Frank and his positive demeanor.
Reported by Joseph P. Maloney (424/HQ)
MILLER, JOSEPH I. 424/G
-- Date of death: October 14, 2010
Mr. Miller served during the Battle of the Bulge and was awarded the Bronze Star. He is survived by his wife (Ruth), two children (Joe and Mary Ellen), four grandchildren (Jack, Lisa, Kim, and Sheri), and six great-grandchildren (Nathan, Lucas, Kyle, Dylan, Alana, and Anya).
To contact his son please write or e-mail at the following: Joseph T. Miller, 706 S. Walnut Apt. 2, Urbana IL, 61801. Work e-mail: jtmiller@Illinois.edu
Reported by Jack Miller (grandson)
ROPER, EDWARD YOUNG SR.
-- Date of Death: April 20, 2010
85, died peacefully at home. Born in Chester, SC, he was the son of Willa Young and J.C. Roper II, and raised in Lake City, SC. Surviving are his wife Mary Lee Flowers Roper of 62 years, two daughters, Rev. Lee Roper of Chesnee, Mary Willa Roper Lowry and husband, Banks, and one son, Edward Y. Roper Jr. and his wife, Karen, of Columbia; four grandchildren, Will and Mary Frances Roper, Mary Agnes Roper-Rogers and Eliza Lowry; step-grandchildren, Beau Lowry and his wife, Erin, and their daughter, Emma, Paige Lowry Leonard and husband, Doug; and a valued friend loved as a son, Keitt Wannamaker. Predeceased by his parents, and brother, J C Roper III, he graduated from Lake City High School, attended The Citadel for two years, and joined the Army in August of 1943, serving with the 106th infantry division. He was captured by the Germans at the Battle of the Bulge in December of 1944 and held as a prisoner of war at a slave labor camp until he was liberated in April of 1945 when the war ended. After the war, he attended the University of South Carolina and graduated from the School of Pharmacy in 1948. Most of his career was spent in Lake City as owner of Roper Drug Company, later moving to Columbia in 1977, working as a pharmacist for Forest Hills Nursing Home. He was a lifetime United Methodist and first was a member of Lake City UMC for over 40 years and then Trenholm Road UMC in Columbia for over 30 years as a faithful choir member while also serving in many other capacities. In addition to church, he also was a member of the Lions Club in Lake City and Kiwanis Club in Columbia. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Harvest Hope Food Bank, The Daily Bread Memorial Fund, PO Box 451, Columbia, SC 29202 or a charity of one's choice.
Reported by Ralph Nelson, 422/Cannon Co.
VOGLESONG, DONALD LEE 422/F
-- Date of Death July 29, 2010
(Corporal) Donald L. Voglesong, age 85, passed away in Brevard, North Carolina from complications due to a stroke. He is survived by his wife Twighla Voglesong, two sons, David and Daniel, one grandson Travis, one great-grandson Brayden and his youngest brother Dr. Arnold Voglesong, Retired Major, US Air Force. Donald Voglesong will be buried in Brevard, NC with full military honors.
Reported by Daniel Voglesong (son)
Taken during a visit at the home of Daniel Voglesong (son) in Breitenbrunn, Bavaria
WILLIAMS, TED 423/Medics
-- Date of Death: September 22, 2010
He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Mr. Williams resided in White Bear Twp., Minnesota.
Photo:
Reported by his widow
Available Now! NEW CD #4
This CD includes audio featuring the 106th Division band and the complete Bob Hope radio show when he appeared at Camp Atterbury, along with past issues of The CUB and more!
Your 106th Infantry Division Association is the one WW II Association involved in the preservation of your history as no other like organization. It is a labor of love and at the same time has several benefits that we consider seriously important. The prime repository for our stories and memoirs is the Web site www.indianamilitary.org.
The material contained on the disks has been gleaned from that Web site for the convenience of quick access and is made available to any user of a personal computer. The original hard copy that has come through us has been, and will be, deposited at the
U. S. Army Heritage & Education Center in Carlisle, PA. There it is made available to any researcher with an interest in WW II history. Also, this facility at Carlisle is one of the prime resources for research for the training of U.S. Military Officers studying for promotion to the higher ranks. One last thing is that our future generations can use these CDs to find out just, "What did you do in the big war, Grandpa?"
Acquire these CDs while they are available.
Set of #1 & #2 CDs ------$10
Disc CD #3 ------------------------$10 #3
CD #4 ------------------------$10
John R. Schaffner
Disc
We are all feeling the effects of the current financial upheaval, including the 106th I.D. Association. The Annual Dues of $10 will no longer be billed or collected on a regular basis, we are only accepting donations. And the previously allowed payment of $75 for Life Membership creates a financial shortfall as our expenses exceeds our income.
Our solution?
We are asking you to join the
LIFE PLUS+ Club
Those LIFE Members who contribute to the LIFE PLUS+ Club will have their names (only, no amounts will be shown) published in the next CUB.
You can donate as much or as little as you can. By donating, you are helping perpetuate the 106th Infantry Division Association.To those LIFE members who we haven't heard from for a long time -- please take the time to join this exclusive club. Thank you!
Send your contribution to: 106th Infantry Div. Association c/o Harry Martin Jr., Treasurer
Index for This Document
106th Inf. Div., 22, 27, 2914th Cav. Gp., 24
18th Volksgrenadiers, 16
2nd Inf. Div., 9
391st Coastal Arty., 16
3rd Army, 7, 25
422/K, 3, 25
422/M, 18
422nd Inf. Regt., 9, 16
422nd Regt., 16
423rd Inf., 17
423rd Regt., 10
424/L, 3
424th Inf. Regt., 27
424th Regt., 26
589th FA BN, 10, 21
6th Armd. Div., 16
783rd Military Police BN, 27
9th Inf. Regt., 9
Afghanistan, 27
Aittama, Rudy, 27
Alape, Arlene, 10
Aleda E. Lutz Hosp. Ship, 16
Andersonville, 4, 11
Andersonville, Ga., 11
Arbeitskommando Slaughterhouse Five, 15
Bad Orb, 25
Bad Sulza, 16
Baseman, Connie Pratt, 23
Bastogne, 7
Battle of the Ardennes, 19
Battle of the Bulge, 6, 8, 15, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29
Beck, Carol, 11
Beeth, Lyle, 2, 4
Belgium, 4, 13, 26
Bengl, Charles, 28
Black, Ewell, 5, 8
Black, Rev Ewell, Jr., 1
Black, Rev. Ewell, 2, 3, 17
Black, Rev. Ewell C., Jr., 2, 5
Black, Rev. Ewell, Jr., 1
Bleialf, 24
Blixt, Tim, 6
Bohne, Betty, 8
Books, 10
Breitenbrunn, Bavaria, 30
Brown, Joe E., 21
Brown, Leslie L., 26
Callahan, Rick, 14
Camp Atterbury, 4, 16, 26, 30
Camp Atterbury, IN, 16
Camp Davis, 16
Cashion, Bill & Sandra, 28
Cashion, Wm. W., 28
Cavallini, Melissa, 27
Cavallini, Melissa Watters, 28
Cavendar, Col., 24
Cherbourg, 16
Christianson, Ed, 26
Christianson, Edward, 2
Co. F, 423rd Inf., 9
Cook, Francis, 22, 23, 27
Cottingham, Ed, 25
Czech Republic, 13, 14
Denham, Edgar, 25
Denham, Ron, 24, 25
Denham, T/5 Edgar J., 24
Doneth, Capt. Kristin, 27
Doxsee, Gifford, 2, 15
Doxsee, Gifford B., 2
Dresden, Germany, 15
Erolstein (Sp?), 25
Forsythe, J.D., 28
Forsythe, Jim, 12, 13
Fossland, Capt., 24
Foster, Cedric, 21
Ft. Jackson, SC, 7, 9
Gallagher, John, 21
Gardner General Hosp., 16
Gatens, John, 6, 10
Germany, 15, 16, 26
Goldman, Roberta S., 8
Goldstar Mothers, 12
Gracheck, Randy, 13
Grachek, Bruce, 8, 13
Grachek, Henry, 13
Grachek, Randy, 8
Grantham, Gordon, 28
Grantham, Mabel, 28
Grantham, Mabel R., 28
Gregoire, Christine, 21
Hannon, Mark, 28
Hannon, Philip, 28
Hastings, Patti, 8
Head, Donald, 21
Henderson, Lt. Col Robert, 27
Henderson, Ltc., 27
Herndon, Donald F., 3
Hight, Jesse, 28
Hinrichs, Don, 21
Hirst, Robert A., 8
Hoff, Russell, 1, 18
Hoff, Tom, 1, 4, 10, 18
Hope, Bob, 30
House, Robert T., 8
Huntsberger, Karen, 28
Iovannisci, Thomas, 8
Jimmy Sturr Tour Agency, 10
Johnson, Harold, 28
Johnson, Kenneth, 28
Jones, Gen., 22
Kelly, C.J., 8
Kuizema, Harold, 3, 17, 27
Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library, 14, 15
Lang, Russ, 1, 18
Lapato, Frank, 28
Leipzig-Wahren, Germany, 24
Leonard, Paige Lowry, 29
Lichtenfeld, Eileen, 8
Lichtenfeld, Sy, 1, 2, 4, 9
Livesey, Herbert B., Jr., 21
Lowry, Beau, 29
Lowry, Eliza, 29
Lowry, Mary Willa Roper, 29
Mahoney, Joseph & Vivian, 3
Maloney, Joseph, 2
Maloney, Joseph P., 29
Martin, Bill, 23, 27
Martin, Harry, 18
Martin, Harry F., Jr., 9
Martin, Harry, Jr., 1, 2, 4, 31
Massey, Joseph, 2
Mayrsohn, Bernard, 3
McMann, Gen., 21
McWhorter, William, 1, 2, 10
McWhorter, William A., 9
Miller, Jack, 29
Miller, Joseph I., 29
Miller, Joseph T., 29
'My War', 10
Nelson, Dr. Ralph, 2
Nelson, Ralph, 29
Normandy, 9
Offit, Sidney, 15
Order of the Golden Lion, 2, 18, 20, 21
Ortmeier, Mike, 28
Ortwine, Harold, 27
Paris, 16
Parlin, Bill, 25
Patton, Gen. George, 7, 14
Perrin, Gen., 21
Pfaff, Burton, 16
Pfaff, Sgt., 16
Pfaff, SSgt., 16
Pfarrkirche St. Marien, 25
Photos, 16, 18
Pilsen, 14
Plotkowski, John, 27
Pratt, Lt. Gerald, 23
Price, David S., 21
'Prisoner's Odyssey', 6, 26
Purple Heart, 14
Raby, Glynn, 9
Raedts, Jurgen, 8
Rain, Jack, 21, 22
Rain, John, 21
Raleigh, Melda W., 8
Raleigh, Milburn R., 8
Rand, Tony, 22, 23, 27
Ray, Marion, 21
Reims, 16
Remember Museum, 4
Reunions, 26, 27
Rieck, Charles F., 2
Robb, Dr. John G., 1, 2
Roberts, Jack, 18, 23, 27
Roberts, John M., 3
Roberts, John M. 'Jack', 22, 23, 27
Roberts, Tom, 22
Rolling Thunder, 10, 11, 12
Roper, Edward Y., Jr., 29
Roper, Edward Young Sr., 29
Roper, J C III, 29
Roper, J.C. II, 29
Roper, Mary Lee Flowers, 29
Roper, Rev. Lee, 29
Roper, Will & Mary Frances, 29
Roper-Rogers, Mary Agnes, 29
Rutz, Dick, 27
Salerno, Joseph (Joe), 17
Salerno, Joseph T., 17
Schaffner, John, 2, 3, 7, 17, 18, 28
Schaffner, John R., 6, 31
Schanenberger, Ellsworth, 27
Schanerberger, Ellsworth, 22, 23
Schanerberger, Ellsworth H., 2, 22
Schnee Eifel, 16
Schoenberg, 16
Schreiber, Pete, 24
Shadows Of Slaughterhouse Five, 15
Sheaner, Herb, 6, 26
Sheaner, Herbert 'Mike', 3
Shearin, Hugh & June, 28
Skyline Drive, 16
Slaughterhouse Five, 14, 15
Slotkin, Ed, 8
Smallwood, Fredrick, 10, 13
St. Vith, 4, 10, 24
Stahl, William, 1, 4
Stahl, William 'Bill', 3
Stalag 12-A, 13
Stalag 9-A, 21
Stalag IX-A, 25
Stalag IX-B, 25
Stars and Stripes, 16
Stein, Mr. & Mrs. Murray, 18
Stein, Murray, 1, 3, 4, 5, 18
Stewart, Jim, 27
Stokes, Greg, 28
Swett, John, 2
Szpek, Ervin, Jr., 15
'The Lion's Path', 8
Trautman, Frank, 1, 2
Trautman, Frank S., 3, 17
Traveling Vietnam Wall, 12
Truman, Grace, 1, 18
Vandermast, Mary, 10
VBOB, 6, 7, 26
Vietnam, 14
Voglesong, Arnold, 30
Voglesong, Daniel, 30
Voglesong, Donald, 30
Voglesong, Donald L., 30
Voglesong, Donald Lee, 30
Voglesong, Twighla, 30
Vonnegut, Edie, 14
Vonnegut, Kurt, 14, 15
Wagner, Paul, 17
Wannamaker, Keitt, 29
Waters, Col., 7
Waters, George Patton, 7
Watson, Pvt., 24
Watson, Pvt. Robert L., 24
Watters, Adam, 28
Watters, Linda Stokes, 28
Weiss, Newt, 17
Weiss, Newton, 3, 4
Weiss, Newton W., 1, 3
Weiss, Susan, 2, 10, 18, 28
West, Jim, 7, 10, 14, 23
Will, George, 7
Williams, Ted, 30
Winterscheid, 24
Wood, Janet, 18
Wood, Randall, 4, 10
Wood, Randy, 3
Wood, Robert, 4, 18
World War II Memorial, 17
Wouters, Carl, 24, 25
Young, Willa, 29