From e-Bay.
USS Tennessee (BB-43) Flag flown at Battle of Okinawa in 1945. 48-star, 9 X 5 foot flag made of wool. In great shape.
According to the seller, this is what his uncle told him: "During the bombardment and battle, the Tennessee was hit by a kamikaze and 20 sailors were killed. This was on the same day that FDR died. To honor FDR and the dead sailors, a new flag was hoisted the following day and was flown for one day only and then replaced with another one. His uncles says this is that one-day flag."
The seller wants $500 for it. This would sure be a great addition for the museum in Scott County, Tennessee.
A Lot of History in That Flag. --GreGen
The USS North Carolina (BB-55) My all-time favorite warship. As an elementary school student in North Carolina, I donated nickels and dimes to save this ship back in the early sixties.
Monday, May 30, 2016
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Final USS Tennessee Reunion
From the May 19, 2016, WBIR NBC "World War II veterans gather at Scott County museum for final reunion."
Seven U.S. Navy veterans who served on the USS Tennessee during World War II met in Scott County, Tennessee. The museum id dedicated to the USS Tennessee, and, because of advancing age and illness, they have decided this will be the last reunion.
The museum is on the grounds of Scott High School and was built by the students and houses the largest collection of USS Tennessee artifacts in the world.
Bill Maytaugh's pea coat is on display there. Bill Bishop was on the ship during the attack at Pearl Harbor where he picked up a fragment of a Japanese bomb as a souvenir and it also is on display.
Gerald "Buddy" McCaskell, 90, came from College Station, Texas and was 18 when he joined the Navy, having never seen an ocean before then.
They took a nice group picture of the group.
--GreGen
Seven U.S. Navy veterans who served on the USS Tennessee during World War II met in Scott County, Tennessee. The museum id dedicated to the USS Tennessee, and, because of advancing age and illness, they have decided this will be the last reunion.
The museum is on the grounds of Scott High School and was built by the students and houses the largest collection of USS Tennessee artifacts in the world.
Bill Maytaugh's pea coat is on display there. Bill Bishop was on the ship during the attack at Pearl Harbor where he picked up a fragment of a Japanese bomb as a souvenir and it also is on display.
Gerald "Buddy" McCaskell, 90, came from College Station, Texas and was 18 when he joined the Navy, having never seen an ocean before then.
They took a nice group picture of the group.
--GreGen
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
USS Dent (APD-9)-- Part 2: Lightning Strike Forces
The USS Dent was at San Diego during the attack on Pearl Harbor and immediately got underway to screen the USS Saratoga in a high speed run to Pearl Harbor. It returned to San Diego 29 December 1941, and then did convoy duty along the West Coast and then went to Alaska until January 1943 when it was converted into a high speed transport 7 March 1943.
It was at New Caledonia 20 April 1943. Landed troops for assaults on New Georgia, Rendora, Vella Lavella, and Cape Torokina, Bougainville.
It then had an overhaul in Sydney, Australia.
It next landed the 4th Marines on Emirau Island 20 March and then it was at the Altape Islands. It patrolled off Saipan and Tinian.
From 8 November 19444 to the end of the war, the dent served in San Diego as part of the Amphibious Landing Force. 20 October 1945, it sailed to the East Coast of the U.S. and was decommissioned 4 December 1945 and sold 13 June 1946.
--GreGen
It was at New Caledonia 20 April 1943. Landed troops for assaults on New Georgia, Rendora, Vella Lavella, and Cape Torokina, Bougainville.
It then had an overhaul in Sydney, Australia.
It next landed the 4th Marines on Emirau Island 20 March and then it was at the Altape Islands. It patrolled off Saipan and Tinian.
From 8 November 19444 to the end of the war, the dent served in San Diego as part of the Amphibious Landing Force. 20 October 1945, it sailed to the East Coast of the U.S. and was decommissioned 4 December 1945 and sold 13 June 1946.
--GreGen
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
USS Dent (DD-116) (APD-9)-- Part 1
From Wikipedia.
This was the first ship that the World War II veteran I talked to at the Wal-Mart last week served on during his Navy career.
The USS Dent was a Wickes-class destroyer during World War I and later was the APD-9 during World War II. It was named for Captain John H. Dent (1782-1823) who served in the Navy during the Quasi War, First Barbary War and the War of 1812.
It was launched 23 March 1918 and commissioned 9 September 1919, too late for World War.
Part way through World War II, it was converted into a High Speed Transport (APD), the AP standing for transport and D for destroyer. Their main duty was to deliver small fighting units onto hostile shores and they could carry as many as 200 at a time.
--GreGen
This was the first ship that the World War II veteran I talked to at the Wal-Mart last week served on during his Navy career.
The USS Dent was a Wickes-class destroyer during World War I and later was the APD-9 during World War II. It was named for Captain John H. Dent (1782-1823) who served in the Navy during the Quasi War, First Barbary War and the War of 1812.
It was launched 23 March 1918 and commissioned 9 September 1919, too late for World War.
Part way through World War II, it was converted into a High Speed Transport (APD), the AP standing for transport and D for destroyer. Their main duty was to deliver small fighting units onto hostile shores and they could carry as many as 200 at a time.
--GreGen
USS Tortuga (LSD-26)
From Wikipedia.
On Thursday, May 19th, I mentioned that I had met a U.S. Navy World War II veteran at the local Wal-Mart and talked with him. He said he had served on the USS Tortuga and, I believe, the USS Dent and had shot down a kamikaze.
The USS Tortuga would have been the second ship he served on during the war.
The USS Tortuga (LSD-26) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship named after Dry Tortuga, a group of desert coral islets 60 miles west of Key West, Florida.
It was laid down 16 October 1944 in Boston Navy Yard and launched 21 January 1945 and commissioned 8 June 1945.
It was enroute to the Pacific for the invasion of Japan when word reached it of the Japanese surrender.
The Tortuga proceeded to Buckner Bay, Okinawa and later operated in Korean and Chinese waters.
--GreGen
On Thursday, May 19th, I mentioned that I had met a U.S. Navy World War II veteran at the local Wal-Mart and talked with him. He said he had served on the USS Tortuga and, I believe, the USS Dent and had shot down a kamikaze.
The USS Tortuga would have been the second ship he served on during the war.
The USS Tortuga (LSD-26) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship named after Dry Tortuga, a group of desert coral islets 60 miles west of Key West, Florida.
It was laid down 16 October 1944 in Boston Navy Yard and launched 21 January 1945 and commissioned 8 June 1945.
It was enroute to the Pacific for the invasion of Japan when word reached it of the Japanese surrender.
The Tortuga proceeded to Buckner Bay, Okinawa and later operated in Korean and Chinese waters.
--GreGen
Monday, May 23, 2016
Diving on World War II Wrecks Off U.S. East Coast
From the October 4, 2014, Sanduskey (Ohio) Register "Marblehead native dives into historic wrecks" by Tom Jackson.
World War II was also fought off the United States coast. Joe Hoyt, 32, is a government NOAA marine archaeologist exploring the war off the east coast.
Shortly after Pearl Harbor, German U-boats began prowling off our coast. In the first six months of the war (for the U.S.), 1942, there were more than 50 Allied ships sunk. Says Hoyt, "It was a bit like a shooting gallery for the Germans along the East Coast."
On April 14, 1942, the destroyer USS Roper became the first U.S. ship to sink a German U-boat in World War II. It found the U-85 on the surface and sank it with cannon fire.
Hoyt is one of the speakers at "Shipwrecks and Subs," a none-day conference at Sawmill Creek.
Mr. Hoyt earned his degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., noted for their underwater archaeology offerings. He has also dove on the USS Monitor.
--GreGen
World War II was also fought off the United States coast. Joe Hoyt, 32, is a government NOAA marine archaeologist exploring the war off the east coast.
Shortly after Pearl Harbor, German U-boats began prowling off our coast. In the first six months of the war (for the U.S.), 1942, there were more than 50 Allied ships sunk. Says Hoyt, "It was a bit like a shooting gallery for the Germans along the East Coast."
On April 14, 1942, the destroyer USS Roper became the first U.S. ship to sink a German U-boat in World War II. It found the U-85 on the surface and sank it with cannon fire.
Hoyt is one of the speakers at "Shipwrecks and Subs," a none-day conference at Sawmill Creek.
Mr. Hoyt earned his degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., noted for their underwater archaeology offerings. He has also dove on the USS Monitor.
--GreGen
Looking Back, 1939: Twelve Joined U.S. Navy at Rockford
From the October 8, 2014, MidWeek (DeKalb County, Illinois) "Looking Back."
October 11, 1939.
**"Twelve joined the Navy at the Rockford office on October 3. It was the largest single quota ever to enlist at that office." Getting ready for war.
** "War bombs are deadly for the children of Europe, but automobiles are fatal enough for Illinois school children, the Illinois Road Builders Association declared."
--GreGen
October 11, 1939.
**"Twelve joined the Navy at the Rockford office on October 3. It was the largest single quota ever to enlist at that office." Getting ready for war.
** "War bombs are deadly for the children of Europe, but automobiles are fatal enough for Illinois school children, the Illinois Road Builders Association declared."
--GreGen
Friday, May 20, 2016
Final Reunion of USS Tennessee Survivors-- Part 2
On May 21, they will have a dinner and appreciation awards. There is a memorial museum in Huntsville, Tennessee, which is why they are there. The museum to the USS Tennessee was originally outside of Columbus, Ohio, but it was felt that it should be in the ship's namesake state (battleships, like today's nuclear submarines were named after states).
Among various artifacts in the museum is the ship's bell. This museum houses the largest collection of USS Tennessee artifacts in the world.. Besides the bell, they have a five-foot model built by the Navy in 1943, another 6.5-foot model built by local historian Cliff Simmons and thousands of other items.
The USS Tennessee was launched in 1919 and had a crew of 57 officers and more than 1,000 enlisted.
At the reunion in 2005, the oldest Tennessee survivor was 94 and the youngest was 76. This was the same year that the new museum opened
I'll Have to Find Out Where Huntsville Is and Visit Sometime. --GreGen
Among various artifacts in the museum is the ship's bell. This museum houses the largest collection of USS Tennessee artifacts in the world.. Besides the bell, they have a five-foot model built by the Navy in 1943, another 6.5-foot model built by local historian Cliff Simmons and thousands of other items.
The USS Tennessee was launched in 1919 and had a crew of 57 officers and more than 1,000 enlisted.
At the reunion in 2005, the oldest Tennessee survivor was 94 and the youngest was 76. This was the same year that the new museum opened
I'll Have to Find Out Where Huntsville Is and Visit Sometime. --GreGen
Final Reunion of USS Tennessee Veterans-- Part 1
From the May 8, 2016, Knoxville (Tn) Focus "USS Tennessee survivors gather" by Mike Steely.
The battleship USS Tennessee managed to stay afloat that fateful December 7, 1941, day in Hawaii. It was damaged and afterwards underwent extensive remodeling and served out the rest of the war until decommissioned in 1947. It then was inactive until 1959, when its name was removed from the naval register and it was sold to Bethleham Steel for scrapping.
On Tuesday, may 18, eight of the ship's estimated 18-20 survivors will arrive at Knoxville and spend the night before traveling to Huntsville, Tennessee, in Scott County for a final reunion of the ship's crew. All or in their upper 80s or 90s now.
--GreGen
The battleship USS Tennessee managed to stay afloat that fateful December 7, 1941, day in Hawaii. It was damaged and afterwards underwent extensive remodeling and served out the rest of the war until decommissioned in 1947. It then was inactive until 1959, when its name was removed from the naval register and it was sold to Bethleham Steel for scrapping.
On Tuesday, may 18, eight of the ship's estimated 18-20 survivors will arrive at Knoxville and spend the night before traveling to Huntsville, Tennessee, in Scott County for a final reunion of the ship's crew. All or in their upper 80s or 90s now.
--GreGen
Thursday, May 19, 2016
Death of Tounz Carroll Stephens, USN
From the May 17, 2016, Log Cabin (Ark.) Democrat.
Tounz Carroll Stephens, 91, of Conway died May 15, 2016. He was born January 2, 1925 in Naylor, Arkansas.
A veteran of the Pacific Theater, he served as an anti-aircraft gunner on the USS Idaho and USS Maryland. he survived kamikaze attacks on the USS Maryland, receiving a shoulder injury he suffered from for the rest of his life.
He crossed the International Dateline in the South Pacific on his 19th birthday in 1944 and participated in the Island Hopping Campaign.
I have to wonder if he ever crossed paths with the gentleman I talked with earlier today?
--GreGen
Tounz Carroll Stephens, 91, of Conway died May 15, 2016. He was born January 2, 1925 in Naylor, Arkansas.
A veteran of the Pacific Theater, he served as an anti-aircraft gunner on the USS Idaho and USS Maryland. he survived kamikaze attacks on the USS Maryland, receiving a shoulder injury he suffered from for the rest of his life.
He crossed the International Dateline in the South Pacific on his 19th birthday in 1944 and participated in the Island Hopping Campaign.
I have to wonder if he ever crossed paths with the gentleman I talked with earlier today?
--GreGen
I Met a World War II Veteran at Wal-Mart Today
I am sure glad that so many World War II veterans have begun wearing hats saying that they had served. I usually make an effort to thank them and, even better, talk with them.
I was at the Wal-Mart in McHenry/Johnsburg, Illinois, and saw him sitting down on a chair.
I found out that he had served in the Pacific Theater and was now 89-years-old. His face lit up when I approached him and asked of his service.
He said he had served on the USS Dent and USS Tortuga, LSD-26.
He was at Iwo Jima and Okinawa and saw more kamikazes that he ever hoped to see, saying how dangerous they were when the pilot was determined to die while crashing their plane into an American ship.
He even had the honor of shooting down one that was coming directly at his ship.
Always Thank a Veteran. --GreGen
I was at the Wal-Mart in McHenry/Johnsburg, Illinois, and saw him sitting down on a chair.
I found out that he had served in the Pacific Theater and was now 89-years-old. His face lit up when I approached him and asked of his service.
He said he had served on the USS Dent and USS Tortuga, LSD-26.
He was at Iwo Jima and Okinawa and saw more kamikazes that he ever hoped to see, saying how dangerous they were when the pilot was determined to die while crashing their plane into an American ship.
He even had the honor of shooting down one that was coming directly at his ship.
Always Thank a Veteran. --GreGen
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Oldest World War II Veterans Back in 2014: Lucy Coffey and Richard Overton
LUCY COFFEY is the oldest living World War II veteran. In July 2014, she went to Washington, D.C., on an Honor Flight, at age 108. She was a sergeant in the Women's Auxiliary Army Corps and won two Bronze Stars for her service in the Pacific. Her father fought in the Civil War.
She was 37 when she enlisted in 1943 and died March 2015.
RICHARD OVERTON is the oldest male World War II veteran in 2014 at age 107 and turns 108 in May. He was born in 1906 in Austin, Texas.
These are the two oldest verified World War II veterans.
--GreGen
She was 37 when she enlisted in 1943 and died March 2015.
RICHARD OVERTON is the oldest male World War II veteran in 2014 at age 107 and turns 108 in May. He was born in 1906 in Austin, Texas.
These are the two oldest verified World War II veterans.
--GreGen
Tea With Einstein; Coffee With Openheimer: Carrol Dick's War Service
From the September 2014, Veterans Site "Tea With Einstein; Coffee With Oppenheimer; His Service in WWII: This Veteran Looks Back On his Life As He Turns 105."
On August 10, 2014, Carroll Dick will celebrate his 105th birthday with family and friends. He worked on the atom bomb for the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, New Mexico, a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and married for 69 years.
He currently resides in Chesterfield Township, Michigan after growing up in Michigan.
--GreGen
On August 10, 2014, Carroll Dick will celebrate his 105th birthday with family and friends. He worked on the atom bomb for the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, New Mexico, a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and married for 69 years.
He currently resides in Chesterfield Township, Michigan after growing up in Michigan.
--GreGen
The 21st Field Artillery-- Part 2
** Activated 6 October 1939 at Fort Knox, Kentucky.
** Reorganized and redesignated 1 October 1940 as the 21st Field Artillery Battalion.
** Inactivated (less Batteries B and C) 20 September 1946 at Ladd Field, Alaska. (B and C Batteries inactivated at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
CAMPAIGNS
World War I: St. Mihiel, Lorraine, 1918
World War II: Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Alsace and Central Europe
Vietnam War
Persian Gulf War
--GreGen
** Reorganized and redesignated 1 October 1940 as the 21st Field Artillery Battalion.
** Inactivated (less Batteries B and C) 20 September 1946 at Ladd Field, Alaska. (B and C Batteries inactivated at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
CAMPAIGNS
World War I: St. Mihiel, Lorraine, 1918
World War II: Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Alsace and Central Europe
Vietnam War
Persian Gulf War
--GreGen
The 21st Field Artillery-- Part 1
From Wikipedia.
Yesterday, I posted about the 21st Field Artillery passing very rapidly (30-40 mph) through downtown Sycamore, Illinois, in May 1941. I was unable to find out where they were coming from or going to, but I did find other information.
The unit was first organized for World War I, also fought in World War II, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf.
** Constituted 1 July 1916 in Regular Army as the 21st Field Artillery.
** Organized 1 June 1917 at Camp Wilson, Texas.
** Assigned 12 December 1917 to 5th Division.
** Inactivated 23 September 1921 at Camp Bragg, North Carolina.
--GreGen
Yesterday, I posted about the 21st Field Artillery passing very rapidly (30-40 mph) through downtown Sycamore, Illinois, in May 1941. I was unable to find out where they were coming from or going to, but I did find other information.
The unit was first organized for World War I, also fought in World War II, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf.
** Constituted 1 July 1916 in Regular Army as the 21st Field Artillery.
** Organized 1 June 1917 at Camp Wilson, Texas.
** Assigned 12 December 1917 to 5th Division.
** Inactivated 23 September 1921 at Camp Bragg, North Carolina.
--GreGen
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Looking Back to 1941: Military Convoy Rushes Through Sycamore
From the April 27, 2016, MidWeek (DeKalb County, Illinois) "Looking Back."
1941, 75 years ago.
"Saturday shoppers on State Street in Sycamore were treated to a display of military power in the early hours of the afternoon as an armored convoy of he 21st Field Artillery passed hurriedly through the city, an estimated 250 going through at between 30 and 40 miles per hour in two hours.
"Every type of military equipment was represented in the huge parade which came and went unannounced. There were large vehicles of six wheels carrying large 77 mm guns, anti-tank cars carrying 35 mm guns, machine guns cars and small trucks and motorcycles.
--GreGen
1941, 75 years ago.
"Saturday shoppers on State Street in Sycamore were treated to a display of military power in the early hours of the afternoon as an armored convoy of he 21st Field Artillery passed hurriedly through the city, an estimated 250 going through at between 30 and 40 miles per hour in two hours.
"Every type of military equipment was represented in the huge parade which came and went unannounced. There were large vehicles of six wheels carrying large 77 mm guns, anti-tank cars carrying 35 mm guns, machine guns cars and small trucks and motorcycles.
--GreGen
Monday, May 16, 2016
Oldest U.S. World War II Veteran Dies at Age 110: Frank Levingston
From te May 5, 2016 ABC Action News, WPVI, Philadelphis.
Frank Levingston died at the VA hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana. he was born in North Carolina in 1905. On his birthday last year, he went to Washington, D.C. where he visited the World War II Memorial, saw the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns and visited the White House.
He enlisted in the Army in 1942, and was older than some of the commanders he served under.
His job was to keep the vehicles running and he was at the invasion of Italy.
As far as education, he never got past 6th grade, but always talked about the importance of an education.
He was a black man, so he also had to put up with the racism of the segregated army at the time.
--GreGen
Frank Levingston died at the VA hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana. he was born in North Carolina in 1905. On his birthday last year, he went to Washington, D.C. where he visited the World War II Memorial, saw the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns and visited the White House.
He enlisted in the Army in 1942, and was older than some of the commanders he served under.
His job was to keep the vehicles running and he was at the invasion of Italy.
As far as education, he never got past 6th grade, but always talked about the importance of an education.
He was a black man, so he also had to put up with the racism of the segregated army at the time.
--GreGen
Pearl Harbor Survivors Among Iowa's Last-- Part 2: USS California, USS Vestal
Daniel Kramer graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and attended the University of Iowa. He enlisted in the Naval reserve on Labor Day weekend 1940 and trained at Great Lakes Naval Station near Chicago and was sent to Hawaii where he was an ensign on the USS California.
Francis Riley, 93, was a signal man on the USS Vestal which was tied up alongside the USS Arizona in preparation to install radar on the battleship.
He was living in Cedar Rapids, when he joined the Navy at age 18, on January 2, 1941. He also trained at Great Lakes Naval Station near Chicago.
The Arizona's explosion blew the Vestal's captain, Cassin Young, overboard, but he got back on his ship. The vestal got underway, but grounded at Aiea Bay. Young was awarded the Medal of Honor for his role at Pearl Harbor, but was later killed at Guadalcanal.
Riley later served in Italy, France and England. He was at the Battle of Casablanca and present at Bikini Atoll for nuclear testing.
--GreGen
Francis Riley, 93, was a signal man on the USS Vestal which was tied up alongside the USS Arizona in preparation to install radar on the battleship.
He was living in Cedar Rapids, when he joined the Navy at age 18, on January 2, 1941. He also trained at Great Lakes Naval Station near Chicago.
The Arizona's explosion blew the Vestal's captain, Cassin Young, overboard, but he got back on his ship. The vestal got underway, but grounded at Aiea Bay. Young was awarded the Medal of Honor for his role at Pearl Harbor, but was later killed at Guadalcanal.
Riley later served in Italy, France and England. He was at the Battle of Casablanca and present at Bikini Atoll for nuclear testing.
--GreGen
Pearl Harbor Survivors Among Iowa's Last-- Part 1
From the April 17, 2016, Gazette (Iowa) by Francie Williamson.
Francis Riley was on the USS Vestal repair ship docked alongside the USS Arizona during the attack. Afterwards, he served on merchant marine ships as part of the U.S. Navy's Armed Guards.
Daniel Kramer will be 100-years-old in September and "thought it was a drill. It was Sunday, 8 a.m., I thought, 'What a nutty time to have a drill.'" He was on the battleship USS California during the attack.
Kramer is one of the last-known living Pearl Harbor survivors in Iowa.
--GreGen
Francis Riley was on the USS Vestal repair ship docked alongside the USS Arizona during the attack. Afterwards, he served on merchant marine ships as part of the U.S. Navy's Armed Guards.
Daniel Kramer will be 100-years-old in September and "thought it was a drill. It was Sunday, 8 a.m., I thought, 'What a nutty time to have a drill.'" He was on the battleship USS California during the attack.
Kramer is one of the last-known living Pearl Harbor survivors in Iowa.
--GreGen
Friday, May 13, 2016
Looking Back: Even As War Clouds Mass on the Horizon, a Hop Scotch Tournament
From the April 27, 2016, MidWeek (DeKalb County, Illinois) :Looking Back."
"Little Janet Coan, age 12, of 422 Park Avenue, won the hop scotch tournament which was held on the sidewalk in front of the Sycamore Community Center."
--GreGen
"Little Janet Coan, age 12, of 422 Park Avenue, won the hop scotch tournament which was held on the sidewalk in front of the Sycamore Community Center."
--GreGen
Looking Back: The Petition to Roosevelt Not To Supply England
From the April 27, 2016, MidWeek (DeKalb County, Illinois) "Looking Back"
1941, 75 years ago.
"Many people have already signed their names to the specially worded telegram now at the Western Union office of this city in objection to the proposal to convoy war materials across the sea to England, believing that this is the final step this country can take as a peaceful country that will lead to war.
"When the proper number of names, which cost five cents each to be affixed to the telegram, are signed, the message will be sent to President Roosevelt in prospect of the proposed measure, believed to be in a day or two."
Some Opposition to Helping England Directly. --GreGen
1941, 75 years ago.
"Many people have already signed their names to the specially worded telegram now at the Western Union office of this city in objection to the proposal to convoy war materials across the sea to England, believing that this is the final step this country can take as a peaceful country that will lead to war.
"When the proper number of names, which cost five cents each to be affixed to the telegram, are signed, the message will be sent to President Roosevelt in prospect of the proposed measure, believed to be in a day or two."
Some Opposition to Helping England Directly. --GreGen
Thursday, May 12, 2016
The Ogdensburg Agreement of 1940: U.S.-Canada Mutual Defense
From Wikipedia.
Signed August 17, 1940.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie signed the agreement in Hedvelton, Canada, near Ogdensburg. It outlined a permanent plan for mutual defense.
The United States and Canada had long been economic partners, but Canada regarded Great Britain as its primary military partner. However, the situation in Europe worsened with German successes and the surrender of France in June.
There was fear of an invasion of Britain and its surrender. Britain transferred its gold to Canada for safekeeping at the beginning of the war.
On August 18, 1940, FDR and Mackenzie met at Ogdensburg, New York, and set up the Permanent Board on Defense. Churchill was outraged, but it is still in effect.
--GreGen
Signed August 17, 1940.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie signed the agreement in Hedvelton, Canada, near Ogdensburg. It outlined a permanent plan for mutual defense.
The United States and Canada had long been economic partners, but Canada regarded Great Britain as its primary military partner. However, the situation in Europe worsened with German successes and the surrender of France in June.
There was fear of an invasion of Britain and its surrender. Britain transferred its gold to Canada for safekeeping at the beginning of the war.
On August 18, 1940, FDR and Mackenzie met at Ogdensburg, New York, and set up the Permanent Board on Defense. Churchill was outraged, but it is still in effect.
--GreGen
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
USS North Carolina Systems Program This Saturday
From the May 8, 2016, Goldsboro (NC) News-Argus "Battleship North Carolina will have systems program."
A program will be held at the Battleship USS North Carolina in Wilmington, NC, this Saturday, May 14 from 1 to 4 p.m.. It is titles "Showboat-- Systems and Design." The "Showboat" was the warship's nickname.
As the first of ten fast battleships to enter service in the U.S. navy at the outbreak of World War II, the USS North Carolina paved the way for those battleships that followed.
Hampered by post-World War I restrictions, naval architects managed to weave the various ship systems together into an efficient naval weapons system.
Retired USAF Lt.Col. Ken Rittenmeyer will explain the various shipboard systems of armor, fuel, propulsion, electrical, etc. that make the North Carolina an effective warship and how they are skillfully incorporated into the ship.
There will also be a two-hour tour of tye ship. Cost is $40 and pre-registration is required.
The USS North Carolina Is My All-Time Favorite Warship and I'd Sure Like to Go to This. --GreGen
A program will be held at the Battleship USS North Carolina in Wilmington, NC, this Saturday, May 14 from 1 to 4 p.m.. It is titles "Showboat-- Systems and Design." The "Showboat" was the warship's nickname.
As the first of ten fast battleships to enter service in the U.S. navy at the outbreak of World War II, the USS North Carolina paved the way for those battleships that followed.
Hampered by post-World War I restrictions, naval architects managed to weave the various ship systems together into an efficient naval weapons system.
Retired USAF Lt.Col. Ken Rittenmeyer will explain the various shipboard systems of armor, fuel, propulsion, electrical, etc. that make the North Carolina an effective warship and how they are skillfully incorporated into the ship.
There will also be a two-hour tour of tye ship. Cost is $40 and pre-registration is required.
The USS North Carolina Is My All-Time Favorite Warship and I'd Sure Like to Go to This. --GreGen
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
North Dakota Pearl Harbor Survivor Turns 100-- Part 2
Harold Bruschwein served in the South Pacific afterwards and won a Silver Star. he said he met some big names along the way.
Before the war started, he was Col. Eisenhower's aide for six weeks before he was sent to Hawaii. he also had drinks with John Kennedy at one point.
He fought at Guadalcanal where he earned his Silver Star for his efforts to organize the rescue a number of soldiers under his command.
--GreGen
Before the war started, he was Col. Eisenhower's aide for six weeks before he was sent to Hawaii. he also had drinks with John Kennedy at one point.
He fought at Guadalcanal where he earned his Silver Star for his efforts to organize the rescue a number of soldiers under his command.
--GreGen
Monday, May 9, 2016
Pearl Harbor Survivor Harold Bruschwein Turns 100-- Part 1: No More Morning Inspection That Day
From the May 4, 2016, Wahpeton (ND) Daily News "Pearl Harbor Survivor" by Kathleen Leinen.
Harold Brushwein recently celebrated his 100th birthday and was presented with a certificate of recognition by the Wahpeton VFW.
He wrote about the attack: "On the morning of Dec. 7, the 1st Sgt. and I were doing morning inspection as usual and heard these loud explosions in the area of Pearl Harbor and thought they were doing practice firing. Then, we saw this low-flying plane come right over the bay.
"He went off to one side and when we saw the anti-aircraft guns going off we commented that was very realistic. The plane then made a right-hand turn and we saw the wings and knew the insignia wasn't our plane.
"That was the end of our inspection that morning.
"Later we found a mini-sub had washed up on the north shore of Oahu and a Japanese soldier was in the brig. That was the closest I came to a Japanese soldier until later in the war."
--GreGen
Harold Brushwein recently celebrated his 100th birthday and was presented with a certificate of recognition by the Wahpeton VFW.
He wrote about the attack: "On the morning of Dec. 7, the 1st Sgt. and I were doing morning inspection as usual and heard these loud explosions in the area of Pearl Harbor and thought they were doing practice firing. Then, we saw this low-flying plane come right over the bay.
"He went off to one side and when we saw the anti-aircraft guns going off we commented that was very realistic. The plane then made a right-hand turn and we saw the wings and knew the insignia wasn't our plane.
"That was the end of our inspection that morning.
"Later we found a mini-sub had washed up on the north shore of Oahu and a Japanese soldier was in the brig. That was the closest I came to a Japanese soldier until later in the war."
--GreGen
Sunday, May 8, 2016
Some Prices from 1941
From a menu back then that Ralph Jeffers had in his scrapbook.
Porterhouse and mushrooms: $1
T-Bone-- 60 cents
1/2 dozen oysters: fried, stewed or raw-- 35 cents
crab salad-- 50 cents
hamburger-- 15 cents
hamburger and cheese-- 20 cents
strawberry shortcake with whipped cream-- 20 cents
pies (per slice)-- 10 cents, a la mode-- 15 cents
Milk-- 10 cents (second glass 5 cents)
milk shakes-- 15 cents
malted milk-- 15 cents
Coca Cola & other sodas-- 10 cents (with meals, 5 cents)
I Could Afford to Eat at These Prices --GreGen
Porterhouse and mushrooms: $1
T-Bone-- 60 cents
1/2 dozen oysters: fried, stewed or raw-- 35 cents
crab salad-- 50 cents
hamburger-- 15 cents
hamburger and cheese-- 20 cents
strawberry shortcake with whipped cream-- 20 cents
pies (per slice)-- 10 cents, a la mode-- 15 cents
Milk-- 10 cents (second glass 5 cents)
milk shakes-- 15 cents
malted milk-- 15 cents
Coca Cola & other sodas-- 10 cents (with meals, 5 cents)
I Could Afford to Eat at These Prices --GreGen
Friday, May 6, 2016
New Jersey Pearl Harbor Survivor Ralph Jeffers Dies-- Part 2
Ralph Jeffers enlisted in the Naval Reserves in 1937 and was at Pearl Harbor that day aboard the seaplane tender USS Curtiss. Much of the crew were having breakfast when they heard a "horrendous" noise.
"We looked through the hatch and saw the USS Utah turning over," Jeffers said. "Then we heard those dreaded words, 'All hands to battle stations. This is no drill.'"
The Curtiss survived the attack, but 29 crew members were dead and more than 40 wounded.
Pearl Harbor caused the United States to enter the war, but Ralph Jeffers says that the importance of it was not fully embraced by the public until decades later.
"When I came back to the states in '43, nobody cared about Pearl harbor. In the '50s and '60s, nobody cared about Pearl harbor."
--GreGen
"We looked through the hatch and saw the USS Utah turning over," Jeffers said. "Then we heard those dreaded words, 'All hands to battle stations. This is no drill.'"
The Curtiss survived the attack, but 29 crew members were dead and more than 40 wounded.
Pearl Harbor caused the United States to enter the war, but Ralph Jeffers says that the importance of it was not fully embraced by the public until decades later.
"When I came back to the states in '43, nobody cared about Pearl harbor. In the '50s and '60s, nobody cared about Pearl harbor."
--GreGen
North Carolina's Fort Macon in World War II
From the Encyclopedia of North Carolina "Fort Macon" by Paul Branch.
In 1923, the Fort Macon, built between 1826 and 1834, was deeded to North Carolina by the federal government and became the second area acquired by the state for public use in what is today the system of state parks. During the Great Depression, a Civilian Conservation Corps camp at the site restored the fort and constructed recreational facilities.
On 1 May 1936, Fort Macon State Park officially opened as the first developed, functioning park in North Carolina. The park was an instant hit and grew in popularity. The Works Progress Administration established a public beach at the site in the early 1940s.
When the United States entered World War II, the old fort went to war once again. On 21 December 1941, Coast Artillery troops occupied the park for military defense purposes. By November 1944, when German U-boat activities off the coast of North Carolina subsided, the fort was deactivated.
The Army terminated its lease on 1 October 1946, and the property was once again returned to the state and resumed its former role as a state park.
--GreGen
In 1923, the Fort Macon, built between 1826 and 1834, was deeded to North Carolina by the federal government and became the second area acquired by the state for public use in what is today the system of state parks. During the Great Depression, a Civilian Conservation Corps camp at the site restored the fort and constructed recreational facilities.
On 1 May 1936, Fort Macon State Park officially opened as the first developed, functioning park in North Carolina. The park was an instant hit and grew in popularity. The Works Progress Administration established a public beach at the site in the early 1940s.
When the United States entered World War II, the old fort went to war once again. On 21 December 1941, Coast Artillery troops occupied the park for military defense purposes. By November 1944, when German U-boat activities off the coast of North Carolina subsided, the fort was deactivated.
The Army terminated its lease on 1 October 1946, and the property was once again returned to the state and resumed its former role as a state park.
--GreGen
Thursday, May 5, 2016
Liberty Ships in North Carolina-- Part 3: Two Functioning Ones Left
After the war, a number of the Liberty Ships became merchant vessels and others were stored for future. Most were scrapped.
In the early 2000s, two restored and functioning Liberty Ships remained: the SS Jeremiah O'Brien on the West Coast and the SS John W. Brown, moored in Baltimore, which visited Wilmington in 1996.
As part of the North Carolina artificial reef program, the Liberty Ship SS Theodore Parker was sunk in 50 feet of water just off Fort Macon near Morehead City and became a popular site for scuba divers and fishermen.
A Ship That Did a Lot for Our War Effort. --GreGen
In the early 2000s, two restored and functioning Liberty Ships remained: the SS Jeremiah O'Brien on the West Coast and the SS John W. Brown, moored in Baltimore, which visited Wilmington in 1996.
As part of the North Carolina artificial reef program, the Liberty Ship SS Theodore Parker was sunk in 50 feet of water just off Fort Macon near Morehead City and became a popular site for scuba divers and fishermen.
A Ship That Did a Lot for Our War Effort. --GreGen
Liberty Ships in North Carolina-- Part 2: SS Zebulon B. Vance
Between 1941 and 1946, the North Carolina Shipbuilding Corporation in Wilmington produced 243 vessels, of which 125 were Liberty Ships. In 1943, 20,000 workers were involved in this effort. Many of these Liberty Ships were named for famous North Carolinians and for cities, counties that conducted war bond drives.
On 6 December 1941 the SS Zebulon B. Vance was the first Liberty Ship launched in Wilmington, just hours before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor plunged the United States into World War II. The Vance made several successful runs to London before being damaged by a mine of a return trip; it was repaired and rejoined the Liberty fleet.
Later, the Vance was converted to a hospital ship and renamed the USS John J. Meany. Finally, it was reconverted to the Vance to transport "war bride" dependents of American military personnel to the United States. These were women overseas, mostly England, who had married service men.
-- GreGen
On 6 December 1941 the SS Zebulon B. Vance was the first Liberty Ship launched in Wilmington, just hours before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor plunged the United States into World War II. The Vance made several successful runs to London before being damaged by a mine of a return trip; it was repaired and rejoined the Liberty fleet.
Later, the Vance was converted to a hospital ship and renamed the USS John J. Meany. Finally, it was reconverted to the Vance to transport "war bride" dependents of American military personnel to the United States. These were women overseas, mostly England, who had married service men.
-- GreGen
Liberty Ships in North Carolina-- Part 1: A Fast Ship to Build
From the Encyclopedia of North Carolina "Liberty Ships" by Jim Fowlkes.
A number of them were built in Wilmington and they carried two-thirds of U.S. cargo during World War II, thus playing a significant role in the Allied cause as merchant vessels.
According to standards developed by the U.S. Maritime Commission in 1940, Liberty Ships were 440 feet long, 66 feet wide, and, with 2,500 horsepower, capable of cruising at 11 knots. Some were also armed.
These ships were the first vessels to be mass-produced using welding instead instead of riveting; welding was faster, cheaper and lighter, and it took less time to train welders than riveters. Consequently, the ships became known for their rapid production. Nationally, over 2,700 Liberty Ships were built and about 200 sunk by the enemy.
--GreGen
A number of them were built in Wilmington and they carried two-thirds of U.S. cargo during World War II, thus playing a significant role in the Allied cause as merchant vessels.
According to standards developed by the U.S. Maritime Commission in 1940, Liberty Ships were 440 feet long, 66 feet wide, and, with 2,500 horsepower, capable of cruising at 11 knots. Some were also armed.
These ships were the first vessels to be mass-produced using welding instead instead of riveting; welding was faster, cheaper and lighter, and it took less time to train welders than riveters. Consequently, the ships became known for their rapid production. Nationally, over 2,700 Liberty Ships were built and about 200 sunk by the enemy.
--GreGen
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
New Jersey High School Has USS Arizona Dedication
From the April 15, 2016, N.J.com True Jersey "USS Arizona Relic Dedication Ceremony held at Somerset County Vocational Tech High School."
On April 6, 2016, a piece of the USS Arizona along with a certificate and letter were dedicated as part of a permanent display case at the high school.
Spreading the Word. --GreGen
On April 6, 2016, a piece of the USS Arizona along with a certificate and letter were dedicated as part of a permanent display case at the high school.
Spreading the Word. --GreGen
New Jersey Pearl Harbor Survivor Dies at 96: Ralph Jeffers-- Part 1
From the May 2, 2016, Asbury Park (NJ) Press "Oakhurst Pearl Harbor survivor dies at 96."
"His Pearl Harbor scrapbook was meticulous, with photos, maps and even a cafe menu. Ralph Jeffers took pride in showing it to anyone who asked -- and a lot of folks did, especially in his later years, when the Ocean Township resident was one of New Jersey's last living witnesses to the Day of Infamy."
Mr. Jeffers died Sunday, May 1, 2016. He served several times as the president of New Jerseys's Pearl Harbor Survivors Association chapter which once numbered 300. In 2014, he said there were only three left. One of them, Daniel Frierson of Mount Holly died in 2015. The chapter disbanded in 2011 due to a lack of members.
For many years afterwards he didn't talk about it. But lately he was a regular speaker in schools and scout gatherings.
--GreGen
"His Pearl Harbor scrapbook was meticulous, with photos, maps and even a cafe menu. Ralph Jeffers took pride in showing it to anyone who asked -- and a lot of folks did, especially in his later years, when the Ocean Township resident was one of New Jersey's last living witnesses to the Day of Infamy."
Mr. Jeffers died Sunday, May 1, 2016. He served several times as the president of New Jerseys's Pearl Harbor Survivors Association chapter which once numbered 300. In 2014, he said there were only three left. One of them, Daniel Frierson of Mount Holly died in 2015. The chapter disbanded in 2011 due to a lack of members.
For many years afterwards he didn't talk about it. But lately he was a regular speaker in schools and scout gatherings.
--GreGen
Remains of USS Oklahoma Sailor Identified: Herbert John Hoard-- Part 2
A full military service will be conducted by Father Dylan Schrader on Saturday, May 21, 2016, at 2 p.m. at Dietrics Funeral Home in De Soto, Missouri, and he will be buried next to his parents at Victoria Cemetery, near Victoria, Missouri.
The U.S. Navy will perform the ceremony.
The remains will be flown from Hawaii to St. Louis and then taken to De Soto.
Welcome Home, Mr. Hoard. --GreGen
The U.S. Navy will perform the ceremony.
The remains will be flown from Hawaii to St. Louis and then taken to De Soto.
Welcome Home, Mr. Hoard. --GreGen
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
The Remains of USS Oklahoma Sailor Identified: Herbert John Hoard-- Part 1
From the April 16, 2016, Fayette Democrat-Leader "Herbert John Hoard (1905-1941)."
The remains of Chief Storekeeper Herbert John Hoard have been identified by DNA and other means. Elbert Hoard of Fayette, nephew and oldest surviving relative was notified March 23, 2016.
Herbert Hoard was born in DeSoto, Missouri to William H. and Hattie Vinyard Hoard on January 13, 1905. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on October 25, 1923, in St. Louis. Service for Mr. Hoard was aboard the USS Mississippi and many other ships.
Marriage was in the future for him and his girlfriend when his last tour ended and he was discharged. However, that was not to be as he was one of the men who died aboard the USS Oklahoma on December 7, 1941.
--GreGen
The remains of Chief Storekeeper Herbert John Hoard have been identified by DNA and other means. Elbert Hoard of Fayette, nephew and oldest surviving relative was notified March 23, 2016.
Herbert Hoard was born in DeSoto, Missouri to William H. and Hattie Vinyard Hoard on January 13, 1905. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on October 25, 1923, in St. Louis. Service for Mr. Hoard was aboard the USS Mississippi and many other ships.
Marriage was in the future for him and his girlfriend when his last tour ended and he was discharged. However, that was not to be as he was one of the men who died aboard the USS Oklahoma on December 7, 1941.
--GreGen
One of the Last USS Arizona Survivors Has Died
From the April 28, 2016, Fox 5 New York.
Clarendon "Clare" Hetrick, 92, has died. He was one of the last seven USS Arizona survivors.
At the time of the attack, he was an 18-year-old mess cook and ran to his battle station in his underwear. When a bomb hit the ship, he managed to climb a ladder and help a stuck sailor before jumping over the side of the ship into the water.
The family plans to have his ashes interred with fellow shipmates on the USS Arizona.
--GreGen
Clarendon "Clare" Hetrick, 92, has died. He was one of the last seven USS Arizona survivors.
At the time of the attack, he was an 18-year-old mess cook and ran to his battle station in his underwear. When a bomb hit the ship, he managed to climb a ladder and help a stuck sailor before jumping over the side of the ship into the water.
The family plans to have his ashes interred with fellow shipmates on the USS Arizona.
--GreGen
Monday, May 2, 2016
World War II History Comes Alive at Fort Miles
From the May 2, 2016, Sussex County (NJ) Post by Glenn Rolfe.
Gunfire echoed across Cape Henlopen State Park on Saturday (April 30) as the surrender of the German U-boat-enactment of the surrender of the German U-boat-enactment of the surrender of the German U-boat U-858.
Military vehicles as well as uniformed American and German soldiers staged events.
This is was through the efforts of the Fort Miles Historical Association, the 261st Coast Artillery and 1252nd Service Command living history groups and Delaware State Parks.Special presentations focused on Delaware military history, the Civil Air Patrol during World War II, the Navy presence at Cape Henlopen and plans for the USS Missouri's 16-inch gun barrel.
Fort Miles was declared operational just before the attack on Pearl Harbor and was built to protect Delaware Bay and the Delaware River.
--GreGen
Gunfire echoed across Cape Henlopen State Park on Saturday (April 30) as the surrender of the German U-boat-enactment of the surrender of the German U-boat-enactment of the surrender of the German U-boat U-858.
Military vehicles as well as uniformed American and German soldiers staged events.
This is was through the efforts of the Fort Miles Historical Association, the 261st Coast Artillery and 1252nd Service Command living history groups and Delaware State Parks.Special presentations focused on Delaware military history, the Civil Air Patrol during World War II, the Navy presence at Cape Henlopen and plans for the USS Missouri's 16-inch gun barrel.
Fort Miles was declared operational just before the attack on Pearl Harbor and was built to protect Delaware Bay and the Delaware River.
--GreGen
Looking Back: DeKalb County Draftees Leave Sycamore for Training
From the April 27, 2016 MidWeek (DeKalb County, Illinois) "Looking Back."
1941, 75 years ago.
" A large crowd of parents, sweethearts, wives and well-wishers estimated at more than 300, were present to see sixty-eight DeKalb county young men-- twelve from Sycamore-- the county's selective service draft contingent for April, leave on the Chicago and Great Western special coach this morning at 7:15 o'clock."
Gearing Up for War. --GreGen
1941, 75 years ago.
" A large crowd of parents, sweethearts, wives and well-wishers estimated at more than 300, were present to see sixty-eight DeKalb county young men-- twelve from Sycamore-- the county's selective service draft contingent for April, leave on the Chicago and Great Western special coach this morning at 7:15 o'clock."
Gearing Up for War. --GreGen
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