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World War II Stories
Share your World War II Stories Here
World War II Stories 
I was 20 years old when I heard the news on the radio in my families living room. We were all stunned. My friends and I enlisted shortly thereafter. I was in the NAVY and ended up going to Pearl Harbor later on our way to the South Pacific area. I lost two of my best friends later in the war.
What a touching and sad story
Thank you, its because of men like you and your friends that i was able to grow up and live in a free world. My dad served on a mine sweeper.
Thank you to Dick and Dave Berry for they work you are doing to help vets and their families to stay close. Geri Rucker
It is our pleasure!
my father Charlie Wagner from Garrison, Maryland did the same (his bday was dec 7). all natl archives records are gone from him. he was in the army and said after sleeping in fox holes one of his scariest moments was sunbathing on a friend’s pt boat when a zero approached and there was no hole in which to dive. I never got any particulars of where he was other than in the phillippines. how would you look for info
Try Fold3.com. Some records maybe free. my Grandpa served in the Navy and was stationed on Kwajalein.
My dad, Ensign Delano Roy Matson was stationed aboard the USS Honolulu on the morning of December 7th, 1941. He had just graduated from Northwestern University Naval ROTC in June, 1941 and was married in September, 1941 to my mom Betsy Davis from Kenilworth, Illinois. He would recall the story of that morning as he was brushing his teeth he heard some noise above and considered whether to finish brushing his teeth or investigate the noise. Indeed, we all know what the choice was he made at that point. He was officer of the day, and he guided the ship out of the harbor and into the open sea.
What a wonderful story and what a good writer you are. You make it so personal. Your dad was obviously a hero.
Thank you for your reply Peggy. I will always beam with pride about my dad, and tomorrow,12/07/2013 will be no different. We celebrate every December 7th at the top of Mt. Diablo in northern California,where there is a beacon that shines only on that day. It is lit by the handful of remaining Pearl Harbor survivors in the Bay Area who have gathered together to honor their fallen comrades. The history of the beacon began by local citizens on the pacific coast, following the Pearl Harbor attack, needing security from their fear of a mainland attack by the Japanese enemy,
The beacon was placed on top of the highest point in contra costa county to be a ‘lookout’ for Japanese warplanes.
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An amazing story. Your dad was a hero. Thanks for sharing
Thanks Carole. I couldn’t be more proud!
Awesome! Guys like that actually won WWII for the rest of us.
This is my mother’s story: She was a teenager and recalled that her father was taking a bath while listening to the radio. All of a sudden her father ran out of the bathroom, naked and wet, screaming that ‘the Japs attacked!’. So when she’d think of the Pearl Harbor attack, she associated it with that image of her father!
I was only a year old when this happened but I like reading about it and have included it in my book, DOUBLE SHOCK. If you want to read an excerp go to http://authorpholloway.com. I did a lot of research for this book. I love any movie made about that time and even the fashions from then.
I’m too young to remember Pearl Harbour but I remember very clearly when Japan surrendered even though I was only three. I didn’t undeerstand what what happening but I knew it was something wonderful from the way my parents were dancing and laughing.
Looking for WWII army soldier Rittenhouse served in HAWAII IN 1945…..may have been with the
Army Corp Of Engineers…….Very important to find him or his wife or children
Reply to rstew@emailaccount.com. Thank you.
First name Donald or Raymond……may have been from PA
I so admire the heroes of WWII and all the wars. Part of my novel, DOUBLE SHOCK, takes place during WWII beginning with Pearl Harbour. You are invited to read an excerp, third blog down, http://authorpholloway.com. Hope you enjoy it.
maybe you can help me my dad was a war surviver, he was shot and also contracted malaria which affected him the rest of life. he left behind few stories. I dont think i was suppose hear them ,Well you know young children,and eves dropping .anway he had a small box with pictures of the war one has a mass grave of dead japanese people most were bones and skulls,Its horrible! there was also money taken off dead japanese men ,so I heard But also there is japanese writing on it .Ican’t find out what it says.or who made it my dad was a good craftsman. if at all interested in helping me find out anything .Iwould like to get ridof the pictures to someone who may want them my.Cheryl Huston my # is 509-322-0410 I do not have a computer Isometimes use my daughters.
correction:Looking for WWII Navy soldier served in Hawaii in 1945.
was stationed in Hawaii Name:Donald Rittenhouse maybe from
Du Bois, Pa. May have been born around 1918. Previous waswritten in error. Donald Rittenhouse was in the Navy. Possible middle
name Merri or Raymond. Knew Dorothy Stewart who was an
aviation machinist third class and made a party dress out of a parachutte. Please contact Ron @ rstew@emailaccount.com..
My father Bradley Rittenhouse was in the Army during World War II. Stationed in Europe tough. Dad was quite the historian, so maybe he has left documentation that will help. I’ll ask my mom if she knows about Donald or Raymond
my great grandfather was in ww2
I am a ww2 coast guard veteran and would love to chat with your father if he is still around! There aren’t too many of us left and we are dying off at a very fast rate!
My name is Steffany Casero and I am 17 years old. I am looking forward to enlisting in the US Army this coming year. As part of my World History assignement I would love to be able to interview you and ask you some questions in regards to WWII. I understand if you are not avaialable. We can even do this thru email if it is more convenient with you.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Dear Victor, Thank you for your service. I am a Coast Guard vet fm the Desert Storm era. Thank you and all the fine men and women that helped pave my way, God Bless you ALL!
@Victor S. Hemphill, Sr. I would love to talk to you about your story. We recently finished talking about ww2 in history class. We were told to try and talk to our grandparents about being in the war but none of my family was in the war, so I would love your help.
Thank your history class teacher for encouraging you students to talk to your grandparents about being in the war. My father was a 101st Airborne paratrooper in WWII. We tried to get him to speak of it. But it was very difficult. After my parents passed away, I published my dad’s wartime letters written as a decorated 101st Airborne between 1943-1945 to his then sweetheart who later became his wife and our mother. The letters are timeless and whisper the same sentiments of our soldiers of today. Check out the book called, “Comes A Soldier’s Whisper and http://www.comesasoldierswhisper.com. God bless.
My father served in WWII. He liberated a concentration camp and then was bayonetted, earning a purple heart. I wrote about his experience in my novel, Wings of Hope. See it at: https://www.createspace.com/3685529
I would love to read your book. Is it available on nook?
god bless him for his bravery and the lives he saved, renna raymond
Renna, is you book available for nook? I would like to read it, but don’t do paper anymore. You should consider doing e-books on smashwords, kindle, nook. It’s all free. I’m doing pretty well with mine.
My father was in the USMC. WWII. He past away in 1977 I would like to look up his tine in the Marines. If anyone can help please let me know. Thank you.
It’s a long shot, but I have some pictures that have names on them from my grandfathers’ days in WW2.
Hi Calvin! I admin.a FB group for Ky WW2( veterans and anything pertaining to WW2) it is for Kentucky veterans but you never know if one of your photos traces back to Ky! You are welcome to post on our page:) It is wonderful to see that you are trying to get these photos to the families!!:) …Jodi( Facebook group is Kentucky and WWII)
Thanks for replying. Any help I can get is much appreciated! I sent a request to join your group. I downloaded the pics I have on to my page, but had to take them with a camera to upload because my scanner quit, go figure. I put what info I had on each pic such as names and last known addresses, but most didn’t even have names. I’m thinking most of them are at boot camp and at his hometown of Elk City, OK. It would be cool if someone recognized something or someone in these pics. I started out very excited to do this, but after running into ‘can’t give out that information’ so many times……. The curator at the Pacific War Museum said he might take them, but I would really like to get them to the families. It’s starting to look like too much of a long shot now. I know I won’t get help from the govt., but patriots like yourself may just be what is needed. Again, thank you!
My dad too was WWII Marine. I got his military personnel record from St. Louis records office.
Go to NARA.com archives site. They have instructions how to obtain those records plus records
of Marine Corps units, other. Good luck and Semper Fi!
My Father was in the army in 1944-1945, he fought in Rhineland Central Europe and Po Valley. His name is George Rinaldi, he will be 90 yrs. old this year and would love to hear from soilders from this time. God Bless all of you!
I was in the Battle of The Bulge in 1944 and 1945. Would love to hear from you.
My dad was in the Battle of the Bulge and is looking for old army buddies. He served under General Patch and then under General Patton -.was in a flamethrower in the 25th Tank Battalion, Company B. He believes that he was lucky because he had great regular army Captains and Lietenuants who helped guide the way through Europe. He would love to hear from you.
He is going to Washington this spring to see the Memorial. So excited.
Hello Mr. Bob, We will never thank you and your buddies to have fought to liberate us prom the oppresion. BELGIUM WILL NEVER FORGET. Can you tell me what outfit you were in?
I also would like to find veterans who fought with the 761st tank battallion and the 333rd field artillery from whom 11 black soldiers were killed savagely by the SS on December 17, 1944 near Wereth.
My father-in-law Melvin Gossage was a WWII POW and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was liberated from the Germans on March 29th and died March 29th 2012. He will be laid to rest tomorrow April 3rd.
Hello Beverly,
I am sorry for your lost Beverly, your father was a hero, he is our Hero in Belgium.
My dad was in the Normandy invasion. He came ashore at Omaha beach on D Dady +1. He fought a Treverse, Hill 192, St. Lo, Brest, across Northern France. My dad was in the battle of the bulge in 1945. He went into Beligum, and was in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia when the war ended. He was in the 2nd infantry division or Indianhead division.
My Father-in-law, Leroy (Runt) Iams, was in the Rhineland. He was in the 705th Tank Destroyer Battalion, 9th Armored Division. He was at the Battle of the Bulge and the Bridge of Remagen. He served from 1942 – 1945.
Bob,
I saw your comment that you were in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944 and 1945. So was my father, David Tharp who was a radio man in the Five-0-Deuce, 101st Airborne. He passed away in 1999. I have recently published his wartime letters written between 1943-1945 in the book called, Comes A Soldier’s Whisper. God Bless.
Bob,
Come by for a visit: https://www.facebook.com/BattleOfTheBulgeVeterans?ref=hl
My dad is 91 and fought from the Battle of the Bulge to Hilter’s Den in Berlin. He loves sharing war stories. Write to him firectly
Is your father a member of the Delaware Valley Chapter, Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge. If he is I know he was taken prisonier
Is there anyway I can email him? I recently graduated from college and was a history major. I would love to hear more about your dad.
I lost an my Uncle Pete in the Battle of the Bulge. I would love to be able to email your grandfather to hear some of his stories. Thanks!
My dad was also at the battle of Po Valley. His name is Marvin Brewer. He fought in the European Theater North Africa, Italy, Germany, Swiss Alps ,Austria. He was in the Army drove a tank and was in the first armored division. He entered the Army December 1942 and came home in October of 1945. Thank God he is still with us today,I am proud to be the daughter of a World War turned 90 years young in March 2013. My Dad also fought in the battle at Anzio it is probable that these two brave men crossed paths at some time during these very important battles. My Dad would also like to hear from soilders that fought in the same battles that he did. Thank God for all of these very brave men and God Bss all of you!!! I am proud to be the daughter of a World War ll Veteran!!!
Need to find Donald Rittenhouse WWII Navy was possibly in Hawaii in 1945.
Middle name may have been Merril…..could have been born in DuBois,PA.
If you have “any” information on him please contact Ron Stewart at
rstew@emailaccount.com. It is very important!
This is a possibility:
Donald Eldon Rittenhouse
December 20, 1927 – March 31, 2012
Obituary
Rittenhouse, Donald E., 83, of Miamisburg, passed away Saturday, March 31, 2012 at Lincoln Park Manor. He is preceded in death by his grandson Andrew Fall. He is survived by his loving wife Dorothy Rittenhouse of Miamisburg; sons and daughters-in-law Dan and Karen Rittenhouse of Tipp City, Dave and Cristy Rittenhouse of Bellbrook; daughters and sons-in-law Donna and Robin Fall of Lake Tahoe, NV., Dianne and Ron Juenger of West Chester, OH; brother Oren LeRoy Rittenhouse of New Carlisle, OH.; 12 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren. He was a veteran of the US Navy in the Korean War. Most recently Donald was the Finance Manager at Lang’s Chevrolet before retiring. Mass of Christian Burial will be 12 noon Friday, April 27, 2012 at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 3033 Far Hills Ave. Interment of cremated remains will follow at Calvary Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:30 AM Friday, April 27, 2012 until time of service. Arrangements in care of TOBIAS FUNERAL HOME-BEAVERCREEK CHAPEL, 3970 Dayton-Xenia Rd. at Grange Hall Rd. Contributions may be made to the Hospice of Dayton in his memory. Online condolences may be sent to http://www.tobiasfuneralhome.com.
There is only one Rittenhouse in the WWII roster.
Looking to hear from anyone who knew Paul “Brad” Bradbury in the Battle of the Bulge. Would like to learn more about time spent in Belgium. Please contact me with any information. Thank You.
Hi Peggy,
I am from Belgium and have done many researches from Normandy to the end of the Battle of the Bulge, Battle of the Ardennes as we Belgians calls it(I am not a veteran, I am 65 yo). You may want to start by indicate his outfit that would be a great help since not every one saw combat inj the Ardennes.
While in Philadelphia I was a member of the Delaware Valley Chapter for Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge and I have a list of all the Veterans who were in Belgium including one who liberate my home town of Dinant. Dinant is 4 km from Celle ande Foy-Notre-Dame were the German army were stopped on their way to the Meuse. Write me please. Jeanine
My Dad was a WW II war veteran. The following is a tribute to him, the USS Quincy and his service… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCw-DysHQcc
Looking for anyone who served as a replacement during the early summer at Lingayen Gulf with the 32nd Inf Div, 128th Regiment. After mopping up campaigns and the Japanese surrender we shipped out in Oct/Nov 1945 as Occupation Forces landing at Sasebo on Kyushu and were moved by rail to Yamaguchi on Honshu. We went through an tunnel between the two islands which was about as scary as much as the Philippine action. At Yamaguchi we were billeted in former Japanese Marine barracks. Recall a really hellacious fire that destroyed at least one of the barracks and cost us some men. This would have been early 1946. Shipped out of San Luis Obispo from the States on the USS Harry Lee, a converted attach/Troop carrier which served with distinction in both the Mediterranean as well as the SP theater. Cannot remember the name of the troop ship that took us to Japan but we ran through the remains of a major typhoon near Okinawa. Would love to peak with any soldiers who remembered any of this. I’87 and live near Columbus, Ohio.
my dad john hedger serve in the clean up in japan after the war, he was in the 1st marines 1941 to 1948. he past away in cincinnati of lung cancer.thats all i know as he did not talk much about the war . i do know what he experienced in japan really bothered him.
Heroes © 2012 Michael Fiveson
called to service
from our great cities
and tiny towns
farmers, carpenters, fathers, and fishermen
at a time, when the risk of dying
held great purpose
and was so clearly defined
off to save the world
and our way of life
these men, boys mostly
walked for months
crawled through unspeakable horror
died in a million awful ways
leaving behind
wives
children
girlfriends
comfort
to march off
and save the world
so few left
they are all very old now
these heroes
they will tell you
they did nothing special
as they saved the world
many returned
limbless
shaken
crippled
yet prideful
respected
and loved
if you meet one
thank him
tell him you know
what he did
and who he is
tell him
he saved the world
A wonderful poem.A great tribute to the men and women that served our country.
My father signed up not too long after Pearl Harber was attacked. I have great respect for my dad and all the men that served and defended our country.Thank you for your bravery and service. God bless you all!
Thank you so much for your input. I am enjoying reading about these WWII superheros. You are welcome to read an excerp from my book, Double Shock. The excerp is from the part of the book that is part of a diary that the heroine finds after her mother commits suicide. Here’s the link: http://authorpholloway.com.
Thank you for putting into words such great truth!
hello everyone.I live in Normandie .I ve got a lot veterans friends.I would like to tell you thank you.
We will never be enough grateful to you.You are always welcome in Normandie.If I can help you please ask me.
We were an armored battalion mving through Europe. Our Captain (Capt Swagger) believed that the best place to spend the night was in a tavern. In Europe the taverns looked like regular houses but had a sign outside that marked them as a tavern. We would find a tavern, enjoy some beers. Men from different companies would know that we would be there so they would come in the night to visit. One night I slept on top of a piano.
Near the Siegfried Line we could not find a tavern so we spent the night in a house sleeping right by the front door, . Waking up the next morning we heard noises. I went to check it out and surprised 3 German boys sleeping in the bedrooms. They were as surprised as I was and jumped out the window to return to their unit.
bonjour , je suis Francaise ,67 ans , je suis a la recherche de mon père qui était lieutenant dans les blindés (Armored Force ) c’est tout ce que je sais sur lui , j’ai deux photos de lui en militaire , il était à Dijon en France ( la Bourgogne)il aurait sauté avec sa jeep sur une mine en repoussant les allemands vers la poche de Colmar , j’aimerais pouvoir mettre un nom sur mes photos , que je pourrais vous faire parvenir
je suis néé en 1945 et ma Mére déceder en 1947 ,elle m’a pu me donner les renseigements que je recherche ! avez-vous la possiblité de m’aider ou de m’indiquer les pistes a suivre , je vous remercie
bien cordialement
Google Translate:
hello, I am French, 67 years old, I am looking for my father who was a lieutenant in the tanks (Armored Force) this is all I know about him, I have two pictures of him in the army, he was in Dijon, France (Burgundy) it would have jumped with his jeep on a mine in pushing the Germans to the Colmar pocket, I would like to put a name on my photos, I could send you
I was born in 1945 and my Mother died in 1947, she was able to give me what I’m looking renseigements! do you have the possibility to help me or tell me the tracks to follow, thank you
cordially
My father-in-law, George Richard Crompton, will be turning 90 on March 6. He was private first class Company B 17th Signal OPN Battalion. His battles and campaigns consisted of Ardennes, Central Europe, Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland.
I am actually trying to find any pictures of men he served with or of his whole battalion. Any ideas of how I do that?
Thank you!
Did you try the Veterans fo Foreign Wars (VFW)?
My Uncle, Harvey Wells, passed away on 2/13. Uncle Harvey was a member of the Ghost Army in WWII, and a kind, gentle, loving man all of the time. He will be missed. His funeral service is tomorrow; his obituary follows. I just felt he should not go too quietly into that good night. Thanks for taking a moment to read about my uncle.
Debra
Obituary of Harvey Franklin Wells
February 15, 2012
Harvey Franklin Wells, age 90 passed away peacefully on Monday, February 13, 2012 at the Lancaster Care Center in Lancaster, Wisconsin. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Mr. Wells was born in Grant County in the village of Livingston, Wisconsin to Chester Arthur Wells and Hazel Bourret Wells. He grew up in Livingston and learned to drive in a Model T Ford Pickup with the help of Cousin Clifford Bourret. He graduated from Livingston High School and during his high school years he was a member of the band, the varsity football team and the boxing team. After high School, Harvey attended University of Wisconsin-Platteville for two years majoring in Industrial Arts, married his high school sweetheart, Jeanette Gundlach in 1942 and was drafted into the army that same year.
Harvey was very proud of his military service in the United States Army as a member of 23rd Headquarters, Special Troops (nicknamed the “Ghost Army”) because their 1,100 member unit’s mission was to confuse the Germans by impersonating much larger combat units. They accomplished their mission by staging full size inflatable, dummy rubber tanks, jeeps, half-tracks, trucks and artillery pieces and broadcasting recordings of tank and equipment movements. The “Ghost Army’s”efforts at misdirection and misrepresentation were highly successful throughout the war. One major example of this success was when they impersonated the 9th Army, allowing it to cross the Rhine River undetected by enemy troops without the loss of one man. For their actions, General Simpson, Commander of the 9th Army awarded a special commendation to members of the 23rd HQ, Special Troops. Harvey was discharged from the Army after three years of service on September 25, 1945 with the rank Sergeant.
In addition to his parents, Harvey was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Jeanette Gundlach Wells, his brothers, Howard Wells and Vernon Wells, two sisters, Lucille Gabel and Eldeen Millard. He is survived by two sons, Steve (Vickie) Wells and Larry Wells, four granddaughters, Shannon E. Wells, Margaret A. Lauber, Elizabeth A. Wells and Sara K. Wells, and their mother, Marlene Wells, two step-grandchildren, Christie A. Harrison and Chad A. Harrison, four great-granddaughters, Amailah A. Lauber, Aleta C. Harrison, Grace A. Harrison and Amelia C. Harrison. Harvey dearly loved his grandchildren. Harvey is also survived by many special nieces, nephews, and friends.
Harvey participated in many worthwhile community activities. He was an active member of the VFW Post 2344 well into his 80’s. He also served on the Grant County Board (early 1970’s) and was an original board member for the Sunrise Valley Apartments for the Elderly, serving in that capacity for 23 years. Harvey was active in the Lancaster Methodist Church as a member of the Trustees and Memorial Committee. Harvey enjoyed playing golf and fishing with friends and family. Family and friends meant a great deal to him.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Lancaster United Methodist Church, 216 South Monroe Street, Lancaster, Wisconsin. Family and friends may come to the Church at 10:00 a.m. for visitation. Burial of Harvey’s ashes will take place at the Rock Church Cemetery located east of Livingston, Wisconsin on County Trunk E. Family and friends will gather immediately after the Cemetery at Rebel’s Restaurant in Livingston. The Larson Funeral Home of Fennimore is handling all arrangements.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Lancaster Care Center.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to University of Wisconsin- Platteville Community Scholarship Program – Lancaster High School Graduates or the Lancaster United Methodist Church Building Fund.
Didn’t know of another vet fron wi.in the23rd hq. sp. trps. sorry to read of hid death. Do you know of the movie that is now out [Ghost Armty]
From: World War II Stories >To: dubandjoyceb@att.net >Sent: Sunday, September 8, 2013 7:50 AM >Subject: [New comment] Tell Your World War II Story Here > >Michael Demerath commented: “Didn’t know of another vet fron wi.in the23rd hq. sp. trps. sorry to read of hid death. Do you know of the movie that is now out [Ghost Armty]”
My father fought on the Island of Leyte, in the south pacific theater. He was CPL LESLIE G CRAIG. He was ARMY INFANTRY. LEYTE is hardly ever mentioned any where, its like a forgotten part of the war. My father died in 1986, he was 67 years young. He loved history, as i do too. I have his stamp collection of all the places he was stationed, as well as his coin collection. I have pictures of him, and also his written words of orders, and the celebrities he saw at the Bob Hope USO Tour. My father rarely talked about the war, but when he did tears were in his eyes remembering the hell he went through, and the friends he lost. My father is and always will be my hero. He fought for the freedom we have now. He was genuine, and honest. He was a veteran, a father, a husband, and my friend. I miss him dearly. Love you dad, thank you.
What a touching story and so well written. Are you a writer also?
Im not much of a writer, but when it comes to something i feel strongly about such as my dad, and wwll the words flow from me. Ive written poems in the past that were published, but nothing recently. I did write a poem about my dad for my dad, but he died unexpectedly, and didnt get a chance to read it. It would make a great song but have yet to find someone to sing it that would do it justice. My dad was and always will be my hero.
Have you thought about just sending the peom to your favorite singer, after copyrighting it first, of course.
Dont really have a favorite singer of any genre. I do need to get it copy righted, but as far as being made into a song, I have no idea who i would like to sing it.I have an old soul for my age. The music of today i do not really like. I prefer the sound and songs of Billy Holiday, and Etta James, and also music from Tommy Dorsey, and Glen Miller. That was music, crisp, clear good music.
Peggy i just purchased Blood on the wicker, and Double shock, i look forward to reading them. I love to read, so much so that i loose myself in that book, and become one with that book.
Thanks for buying my books. The ones you chose are different. Double shock diary entries from Pearl Harbour which might interest you. I still think you should try your hand at writing a novel. Peotry is good too.
Too many ideas in a some what scatter brain to sit still and write a book.Wish i could tell my life story to someone then have them make it into a book.
I’ll bet you’ve had an interesting life. I never thought I could write a book but once I got started it snowballed and before I knew it I had written nine. The ideas are still coming and won’t slow down. It kind of drives me crazy in a way. But I’m having a good time.
My Dad is a surviving wwII veteran ….95 yrs old. He was a cook in the army in South Pacific. He recalls when his unit was hit, a tree fell on his back and injured his spine. He stated all the soldiers were commanded to run for cover, and no one was aware he was still trapped in the tent because he was unable to walk and he was covered with water, I assumed it had rained previously. so he stated he managed to crawl and pray until he reached a point where he could yell for help and was noticed. He said he was hospitalized, unlike today, they were treated for care in tents, and he was confined for six months. My dad also developed malaria fever and sufferedv third degree burns. He served from 1942-1945 and was discharge with an honorable discharge. My dad is still living, sound mind, feeble of course, but. Enjoys sharing his wartime experience during segregation era. He sometimes mumble through his conversations due to a stroke years ago, however, once he gets focused on his wartime recollection, one is able to understand his speech. He has lived with me for 8 years, prior to that, he was able to care for himself. My Dad is such a remarkable man, and, no doubt, God has spared him to enjoy the golden years of his life. He is such a peaceful man, I know God already predestined him to be in my care. No doubt this was by design for me to be the chosen daughter who has never been married to align my life to serve my Dad directed by the creator himself.
God bless you both. You are doing the right thing caring for your father. You are lucky to have each other. My dad served in the navy until his death in 1947. I was two years old.
I read your coment bout your dad on Leyte I was a coxswain of a landing craft from the ship USS Ormsby APA 49 that put the troops on the beach.the Ormsby has a website if you care to google it
I also believe your dad is a hero, men like him paid for my freedom
Steve I was at leyte landing I was a coxswain on a lcvp landing craft, From the Ship USS ORMSBY APA 49.We went in under heavy fire I rember it as if it was yeastarday.The Ormsby has a website with all its history,I am proud to have served with men like your dad and crew of the ormsby.Just google Uss Ormsby apa49 if you like.your dad was 7 years older than I.
I just would like to say few words. Sorry for my english , I’m French, living in New Caledonia, south Pacific.
In march 1942, New Caledonia became a huge base for the US army, preparing the Guadalcanal campaign. More than a million of young US soldiers passed through New Caledonia and left behind them, an immortal feeling of admiration and grateful. They left in 1946.
In 1992, was celebrated here the 50th anniversary of their coming. I was 30 and lucky enough to meet a veteran who was coming back with Howard his son from Hawai. We spend few moments together, he showed me pictures… When he realised that I really was interested in his sory and WWII, but to shy to ask him too much questions, he told me one thing. I remember, we were at the restaurant and I was seated just to his right. Then, he put his hand on mine and told me “Gilles, from now, you can ask me what you want about it”.
I was not expecting this and I so impressed to be whith such a man who really lived the war.. (so, i really happend ! ) that I was not able to think or ask as many thing I would have liked.
Robert Altmann, was 70 y.o. Very nice guy.. I felt for his home in Florida and we corresponded few years till he passed few years ago. I’m extremly proud to have met such a man. He is my hero.
I’m French and as a French man, I thank all those young men ad women too, who gave their lives, in the Pacific, in Europe and specially on the French beaches of Normandy and other battlefields. Etenal grateful and admiration.
I also have a think for their families, their pain to have lost their children…
Thank you and thank you. God bless you all. And, Robert Altmann, you’re my US grand father. I love you…
Gilles
What a wonderful and touching story. Thnak you, Gilles!
Sorry again for the faults in my text, I didn’t read myself before sending my mail. Some letters are missing sometimes, I think it is understandable anyway.
I made an enormous lapsus talking about my US grandfather, his birthname was Bernard, and was distinguished with the purple heart. Attacked by the Japanese during Guadalcanal battle, he was severely injured and the only survivor with another mate from his squad. He told me that more than 60 years after this event, he still have nightmares.
During years after his return at home in Florida, we regularly corresponded. It was so enchanted to have returned to Nouméa that he called us his “French family”, and never forgot to send a nice birthday postcard for my 2 daughters.
my dad was in the 1st marines and served there. he inlisted in 1941,he turned 18 at guadal canal. he served 7 yrs in the marine corps he is past on now and spoke little of the war, ho was also stationed in japan after the war ended. he spent time in new guenea and austrailia. he said the ausies are fine people and he loved his time there. he told me that his buddies and him had people the stayed with when on leave, when they went to town the towns people would line the street and take bets on the race. my dad would step off the train and the race was on,he said the tallest woman he ever met was inlove and would chase him each time, dad said he would run for the nearest pub cause women were not allowed in them back them. he stated that she nearly caught him a few times. tribute to my dad john hedger for serving his coutry in what was called the decoy mission.for the family in austrai that took him in. though passed by now thinks for being great host.
My grandfather fought at Guadalcanal. I have some pictures he took while in the war. Some have names, some have partial names, but most don’t have anything. His name was Lawrence George “Pinhead” Fanshier. I know it’s a long shot, but I’m trying to get these pics to the families without much success I might add.
Chuck Tatum (who wrote a memoir) fought at Guadalcanal along side John Basilone. You could probably contact his publisher and see about reaching him.
K so I’m doing a History Project on a Soldier in the Marines or Navy if you have any information on anyone could you please contact me with the information before wednesday March 21st which is my due date.
The Information i will need is….
A short Bio. on what his or her life was like before the war. (ex. Where did they live? Who did they live with? did they work? Did they have a chance to go to school? How were they treated? Did they move often? What were they like? What were their interests?)
I will also need info on how their life changed once WWII started. (ex. did they join the military or Navy? did they have a family if so what happened?)
An of course I will need info on their life after the war. (ex. what happened to them? did their life go back to what it was like before the war? how did their lives change because of the war?)
To help with my presentation I will need at least 6 visuals. (ex.Pictures of the individual, of family, pics during the war, of them at their job, and if possible maps of where they have been.)
Then w
Email me at Kathleenturner14@gmail.com
don’t be fooled by the # in my email I am older than 14 just an fyi
Thank you to all that help me.
First I would like to thank ALL the veterans of WW II but mostly those who liberated my home town and my contry of BELGIUM,my home town is DINANT liberated by the 9 infantry division. While in Belgium many left a child behind but there were NEVER negatif words toward those fathers, I found mine in 2002 after 36 years of searching and now I am searching for many and have found 52 families with a few fathers still living. I am also searching for Belgian families who received GI in there home. If any of you would like to found families I would be very happy to do so, ALL the searches I do are free of charge in recognition to our liberators as well for my bothers and sisters in Belgium.
Again, THANK YOU MY LIBERATORS AND HEROS
I am so touched by what you are doing and the stories you have told. Kepp up the good work!
My father was in the 101st Airborne and fought in the Battle of the Bulge, Bastogne, Belgium. He rarely spoke of the war except for a few words here and there. But my mother, his then sweetheart, kept every single letter he ever wrote. Those letters and communications between them was his life line which kept him sane while living a life no one back home could even begin to imagine. I published those beautiful letters in the book called, COMES A SOLDIER’S WHISPER, sentiments which resonate with our soldiers of today. God bless.
Could anyone assist me to trace the surviving relatives of the following heroes of ww2 who resettled in Kenya and later died and were buried in Turbo cemetery,Kenya;
H.C.PORTER-Born in 1889 and Died on 1961.
Lt.Col.G.A.Swinton Home, D.S.O.-Born in 1875 and Died on 1960.
John Edward Parker,Born in 24th March 1905 and Died on 21st June 1961
You can try this website
http://www.nationalww2museum.org/honor/research-a-veteran.html
Good luck.
I highly appreciate their contribution towards world peace and I want to beautify their graves
Would someone please share a picture of a purple heart from ww11? Im having a tattoo done to honor both my father and mother. My mom was a RN, and my dad fought in ww11, pacific theater, he earned several purple hearts, but i no longer live where my dads medals are kept. The tattoo im getting is a stethiscope in the shape of a heart, with a ww11 purple heart in middle, with ww11 in the top bar.Please if anyone has one, please post for me. Thank you
HI
I met a man once and our conversation turned to what our fathers did in the War (World War 2). I told him that my father was a pilot and flew B-17s over Germany. When it was his turn to inform me of his father’s exploits he very curtly and matter-of-factly told me that “his father didn’t do anything. He was in the Merchant Marines.” I’m a bit of a War historian and so in tears I explained to him the great sacrifices and perils that the Merchant Mariners went through to reach England and other destinations. I told that man to go back and check up on the history of the Merchant Marines because in my eyes he was a HERO !!
Let us always be thankful for that forgotten branch of service…the Merchant Marines.
Yes Kenneth your father’s outfit along along with the Red Ball Express and many other after them who continued braving the bombs and U-boats from the Germans are the unsung Heroes, brave men the Historians have forgotten
Well Done, Ken. As a former Coast Guardsman;BM3, many are unaware of the role that ALL divisions of the United States components, both civilian and military played in the ultimate sacrifices that resulted in VE and VJ day. Death is never a victory, however it is also the ultimate love of Family and country to show to anyone worthy of it. I hope thru you, he found the pride his father deserves!
my father, 1st lt. richard lane hazel, entered the army in 1930. in 1943, he was stationed with the zebra force in hengyang, china as a combat training advisor to the chinese nationalist army. it was the chinese solder’s job to protect and defend the us airbases in hengyang, lingling, and kweilin china. on 25 june 1945 my dad and several others had to evacuate hengyang and travel to lingling because the japanese were attacking hengyang. during the evacuation several japanese planes bomb and strafed the vehicle my dad was escaping in. after the attack all but my dad was accounted for and were able to make it to lingling on foot. my dad was listed as MIA and eventually KIA. his remains have never been re- covered. his name is listed on the tablet of the missing in the the national cemetery in manila, philipines.
Oh my goodness, that’s so sad!
God bless your dad for his bravery so we all can be free
My dad was behind enemy lines during WWII at the age of 17 delivering radios to the French partisans for Operation Bodyguard, part of Patton’s fake invasion of Pas de Calais. I am a vet of Desert Storm, being a helicopter company commander. I wrote a book(fictional), because I couldn’t tell the whole truth, called Code Name Sonny.
My dad’s WWII duty was courier. A big thanks to all those unseen heroes who
made victory possible back then and now. Will check out your book. Do you
have any details of the courier movements in WWII Europe?
Thank you for your response. I am very excited to hear from you. In my first novel I don’t have anything about Courier Movements, however if you could share some stories of your father’s experiences, I may be able to add something in the sequel to the first Novel. I’m presenting working on the second book. I’m proud to say in the second book I included an experience my neighbor had as a POW of the Japanese on an Island in the Pacific. Art died many years ago, however I did want to honor this man. I told his son that I have a little tribute to his dad, and I’m anxious to see if he picks it out. Although I’m sure he will right away, it was a bizarre experience. What is your book called? Is your father still alive?
Thank you again, and God Bless.
Laura Dothe Hellwig
Laura, I have no book but am working on gathering by research details of my father’s or in
general the duties of the courier in WWII to pass on to my family’s newer generations. So
far, I am trying to decipher the connections of the military of WWII with State Department
communications. My dad has passed long ago and like many other vets, he spoke little
of his exploits. And we kids didn’t probe enough. So now we must dig.
Good luck to you on this endeavor, I think it’s well worth the time and energy. Now you’ve got my curiosity, I’m going to do some general research on my end. If you’re able to get some information on your father, please let me know. Although the story line of the second book is down, now is when I’ll spend a few months on the first edits, which means I’ll enhance what I’ve written and or add things to dramatize the story more. The sequel will probably be ready for submission in about 6 months. However, it looks like there maybe a third book to the series, so there’s a strong possibility if there isn’t time to add the Courier to the second book, it can be added into the third book.
Thank you once again,
Laura Dothe Hellwig
You may want to check out info on Blechley Park, home of MI-6 intel folks in WWII.
Thank you for your reply. After our last correspondence while you were checking into acquiring information on your father’s duty as a courier, you actually got my wheels in motion for the sequel of The 2nd World War II, which is presently titled The 2nd World War II, Civil War. I have two very old forms of communication which was included in the story, and I thank you for planting that seed in my brain. The first book I included an old German Engima Decoding machine as a source. Per your suggestion, I read up on the Blechley Park, home of MI-6 intel folks and I find this very interesting. You may have planted another seed to be used in the third book which will finish the three part series of The 2nd World War II. My novel should be out in about 6 months. At this time my publisher will be setting me up with a website. I will let you know when this becomes available. Thank you once again.
Good evening Mr. Guilford,
I told you I would contact you once my book was finally available. I’m proud to say, all my hard work has finally become a reality. Pre-sales for the first book of my three part series, The 2nd World War II, is finally available through my publisher’s website. To check it out, go into Tate Publishing, click on books and in the search space type in The 2nd World War II. Once my book comes up, click on the red title for a full view and description. I’m so excited. I can’t wait for you to read it, and look forward to your response. But please keep in mind, when you don’t necessarily like the ending, there’s a reason. Book 2 should be out sometime this summer.
Thank you, Laura
I would love to know if anyone has heard about the ships the Phineas Banning or the Malabar
My father was a WWII Naval vet, going in at 19 1/2, out at 22 1/2 (1943-46). He died too early at age 60 but left some fascinating info on his tours through the middle East, the Phillipines and Australia. If ANYone has a dad still living that might remember my dad I would love to hear from you. In honor of my dad and all my uncles who served, I have been a VA RN for 29 years.
Cindy Adamek
Does anyone knows, the army soldier “bulldog” of the Coast Artillery Base, Camp Blauwbaai at Curacao during WW2.
This name with several other initials was engraved in a concrete floor at the motorpool found when clearing the bush at that location.
Allan David van der Ree-Foundation Battle-Station Blaauw, Force Curacao 1942
My father-in-law was a USMC rifleman at Guadalcanal during WWII. We would like to set up a shadow box with his medals, in his memory. The problem: we have only his separation papers and no DD 214. We even did a research of the National Personnel Records Center — no luck. What type of medals would he have earned?
Purple heart, Bronze star, Silver star, there are numerous.
Thank you for your quick response and good information,
New here, a younger veteran myself. Saw a story on the Military History channel titled Shot from the Sky. Story of a B-17 pilot, Roy Allen of Philadephia; shot down over occupied France in late 43, early 44. French Resistance assisted and helped. Sorrowfully he was betrayed and ended up in Buchenwald concentration camp. He was befriended, amongst others by a B-24 Liberator pilot named Warren Bauder, I think I may be a relative of Warrens’ . With the coming of Memorial Day and the lack of accurrate American History, I hope to maybe contact him or his immediate family just to thank him and maybe learn more of my own familiar history.. God bless those that served and paved the way for us to have the freedom to love our families and never forget that sacrifice IS a choice, and I would make that choice again.
Try the website for the National WWII History Museum. They have many different ways to look up veterans both living and deceased.
http://www.nationalww2museum.org/honor/research-a-veteran.html
Good luck!
my great grandfather was shot down in a plane by the japanese soldiers and was taken captive at one of the brutal terrifying concentration camps that had been run by the japanese. After 18 months of torture and brutality him along with one of his close friends escaped and lived off of potatoes in a field until they finally made it home safe.
Your great grandfather in my eyes was a brave solider and a hero. Thank you for your story.
I would like to say that i have tears in my eyes reading these stories..I am very proud to say that my 2 grandfathers,great grandfather,and 2 great uncles fought in WWII .My grandpas,James West,Bell County,Ky,U.,S.Navy,Walter E.Cohen Jr.,Cincinnati,Ohio,U.,S. Navy(inducted in 1998 in Air Crew Roll of Honor which i am trying to find out what led to this,he was a tailgunner..)Robert McClinton(my ggrandfather) Brooklyn,Ny U.S.Army(served WWI with Seaforth Highlanders Brigade as well as WWII with Army) Robert Vaughan,(uncle)Cincinnati(WWII and Korea,Purple Heart and Bronze Star)..and great uncle Shirley West,Bell County,Ky.U.S.Army,KIA..I am very proud of my men and as they have all passed away i have no one left to answer my questions..Looking for any info on Shirley West or Walter Cohen..and for all the Veterans reading this,THANK YOU AND KNOW THAT YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED….Jodi
My dad ….Dale Arganbright……served out of Marshall County Kansas in the Pacific Theater. He came home with some problems and ended up an alcoholic and untreated PTSD. I was five when the family split and he died in 1975 and buried in Waterville, Kansas. Always wondered if anyone remembered him and could share an information on his experience and type of person he was.
A SOLDIERS POEM:
As the old soldier stepped down from the train
The war was over but still he felt the pain
His buddies he saw fall from a sniper shell
man if there was a heaven the he was in hell
the days turned to months the month`s to years
He remembered the planes that flew overhead
and as he looked at a name he could not stop the tears
It was one of his friends he had wondered about for years
PFC John L Newby 1916-1945 buried in Florence,Italy
This is for my Grandfather who died in the last battle of WW2 he earned a purple heart and a silver star but that did not help him he was not going to see it… the poem is for all of the soldiers that have served or will ..I have a brother in the Army Rangers I could not serve due to medical conditions Grandma passed away in 2010 at 86 yrs young and the last thing I remember her telling me was that John L was coming and he was bringing the blue dress she got married in I believe that your first true love will come for you
Wow…how beautiful and what a wonderful way to honor someone!
Private First Class, John L Newby, 85th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, U.S. Army. Entered the service from Texas. Awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart.
K.I.A (killed in action) april 1945
Any man still alive having served on the U.S,
Burrows DE 105 in World War 2 please res-pond to Bernard Vanderbrook Signalman
1st Class.Would Like to hear from you.
Thought some of you would like to see a video about Harry Beeman who served on the DD398 USS Ellet. I made the video for free. http://vimeo.com/jozef/ellet
My uncle, Sidney Dallas O’Neal, was abandoned by his father after the death of his mother. My mother, along with three of her sisters, was taken to the Protestant Girls Orphans Home. There were no orphanages for boys nearby, so Sidney and his 2 brothers survived alone in a 2-room shotgun shack in the country during the Great Depression. Sidney, the youngest boy, helped to feed his brothers and himself by killing wild animals. He became an expert marksman, and early on, demonstrated a talent for survival.
Sidney lied about his age to join the U.S. Army in 1937. He was stationed at Pearl Harbor in 1941 and survived the attack on December 7th. After the United States entered World War II, Sidney served in the European theater for 2 years and was wounded 3 times. Each time, he was patched up and sent back into battle. After Germany was defeated, his unit was sent to the Pacific theater, where he was wounded for a 4th time. His talent as an expert marksman served him well in battle. Sidney received the Bronze Star for heroism in battle along with numerous other medals.
In 1991, a bill was passed that allowed each U.S. Congressman to award the Pearl Harbor Survivors Medal to those members of the Armed Forces who had been at Pearl Harbor, survived the attack on December 7, 1941, and were still alive on December 7, 1991. Uncle Sidney was dying of prostate cancer in the hospital. As the days of early December 1991 slowly ticked by, his family, the medical staff, and the office of his Congressman wondered if Sidney would live long enough to receive his medal.
He was still alive when dawn broke on December 7, 1991. At 3:00 pm, Representative Henson Moore presented Uncle Sidney with the Pearl Harbor Survivors Medal and a certificate. Family and friends visited him so he could proudly show them his medal. Five hours after he received his last medal, Uncle Sidney died.
His story is an incredible story of survival – survival by his wits as a child, survival in numerous battles despite being wounded several times, and finally surviving just long enough to receive a final tribute from the country he loved so much and had served so well.
Sidney Dallas O’Neal (30 Jan 1921 – 7 Dec 1991)
What a touching and interesting story. You should write a book about this. It would make a great movie also. I so much enjoy reading these WWII true stories.
On a lighter note. I was a young child during WWII, living on the South coast of England. It was an exciting childhood with the town full of American servicemen, soldiers and sailors, blackouts at night, boats drawn up on the beach, all preparing for the imminent invasion of Europe.
One day, standing outside the closed door of an American GI cookhouse, a donut was passed to me through the letterbox.
I would love to eat that donut again. Does anyone have the recipe for the donuts as they were made at that tim
Anyone out there remember the Army 38th Field Hospital attached to the Marines in Pacific? They served on Siapan, Iwo Jima, Tinian. My dad was an Army Medic, still here thank goodness and is 88 years young. He was on Iwo when they raised the flag. He remembers watching a Spencer Tracy movie “God is my Co-Pilot” and Mr. Tracy came walking out just before the end of the movie when they served on Siapan. If you served with the 38th you probably received a book the was written by a serviceman all about the 38th Field Hospital. In the book it listed all those who served with this group, and told the story of every step of the way through out their service during WW II. Would be nice connect with a veteran that service with the 38th or a family member.
These stories are incredible. I lived through WWII and several of my relatives were served in the military. One brother in the Army and one in the Navy as well as three uncles. My cousin was shot down over Germany .
Later I met and married a Navy veteran of that war. I buried him in 2010. He was 83 years old. He was very proud of his service to his country, and was amazed that our youth does not know about all the sacrifices that was made for our freedoms that we have.
He added a year to his age so he could get in the navy. He never talked to much about it, but a few stories he told our sons.
He served aboard the USS Haraden DD585
We were married for 62 years and 2 of our sons are navy vets.
I am so proud of him and all the others who helped to give this country the freedoms that we have.
He was called into the ministry of God several years after we were married and served o
our Lord for over fifty years as a preacher of he Word. He loved God and country.
He talked of his buddies who served with him on the Haraden . He never forgot the Battle of the Sulu Sea where his ship was hit by Japanese planes.
To all you remaining ship mates Marvin Sartain never forgot you.
My father Jim Cook was stationed on Tutuila, American Samoa during WW2, where He met my mother, He was in the service not sure if he was in the Navy or the marine as my mother is dead 20 years ago. My father was in the battle of Guadacanal where he was killed. I am trying to put all the informations together by trying to look up the crew roster of the ships that were in Tutuila, or the list of men killed in the battle of Guadacanal, Solomon Islands.
hi jimmy! Have you looked on ancestry.com? If he was in Navy there might be Navy records that sometimes list other crew members..if you dont have access to ancestry.com,i can look him up for you..just give me full name date of birth and where he lived..Jodi
Have just returned to Australia after visiting Hawaii and especially Pearl Harbour. I remember Dec 1941 (I was 6) and have always read as much as I could about it. It was a very sombre moment to actually be there .My late husband was a 16yr old deckboy on a merchant ship Winchester Castle that made many trips with American soldiers to Italy and Europe in convoys. Is there anyone who ever did that trip? It became known as the lucky ship as it survived the war,unlike her sister ship Warwick Castle that was torpedoed right beside her in Nov 1942 My husband went on to be a Captain in Australia and visited the west coast of Canada and the US,retiring in 1990
This is another wonderful story. I became interested in Pearl Harbour when I did the research for my book, DOUBLE SHOCK. I have been reading these ever since. To hear from someone who was actually there is so interesting. Thanks for sharing that.
Dear Peggy,my name is Judy Gower (Australia) and I wrote the note about Pearl Harbour. The years are passing and I would love to read your book “Double Shock” Would gladly pay expenses. ( Cost of book and postage and packing) Can this be done? Visited there in Jan13 2013, will go there again Jan 2014 as I just like to be there and remember what happened. Never got a reply to my query did anyone remember being on the Winchester Castle in convoy to Europe. I left that query too late Im afraid. My husband who was the 16yr old deckboy, remembers 3000 soldiers aboard each trip in the cabins and in the holds. The sister ship Warwick Castle which was torpedoed was returning, after having unloaded the troops luckily, but they lost the brave crew
Alas I have had no replies to my letter. Apparently there is no one amongst the thousands of American soldiers that made the trip on the” Winchester Castle” to the war zones in Europe that are with us now. I am returning to Pearl Harbour on Jan 4th as I always do when I go to Hawaii .I have no connections with it except the childhood memory which is so very strong ,of the consternation of the NZ people to the news
Hi, I am working on a new Discovery Channel series looking at the WWII battles of Midway, Leyte Gulf, Okinawa and Bulge. If you are an American veteran – or know of one – from any of these battles and would be interested in taking part, please do contact me at lydia.delmonte@arrowmedia.com. Any help is much appreciated!
Arrow Media website: http://www.arrowmedia.com
Kind regards, Lydia
I was in USSMeade 602 destroyer in the Battle of Midway. mbhealthyliving@yahoo.com
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My Father-in-Law was in the battle of the bulge. He is deceased but registered on the site. Leroy E Iams.
Hi I was wondering if anyone could tell me about a family friend: Joseph Lydon. He was in the Navy and was KIA. He served on the U.S.S Eagle 56. I know that his ship was torpedoed off the coast of Maine about a month before the war ended and I know that there were only 13 survivors but I was wondering if anyone had any information on Joseph Lydon. Anything would be helpful. Thanks
In honor of my father, John Joseph Buchanan I would like to post his extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as radio gunner of a B-25 type aircraft. On 15 August 1944 T/Sgt Buchanan flew in an attack upon a road bridge at Avignon, France. Upon the approach to the target, direct hits from intense anti-aircraft fire wounded two members of the crew, destroyed one engine and heavily damaged his airplane. Rendering all possible assistance to the crew in maintaining the crippled bomber in formation for a successful bomb run, T/Sgt. buchanan then administered first aid to his wounded comrades. Courageously remaining at his post to radio the position, T/Sgt buchanan parachuted behind enemy lines just before the B-25 crashed into the ground. After sixteen days in enemy territory, T/Sgt Buchanan made his escape and returned to his unit with much valuable information about the enemy.
My father was at Pearl Harbour when the Japanese attacked. He had a personal diary in which he wrote every day, leading up to that day and afterwards. Many stories and pictures are there. I have transferred all of this to a book entitled “Chief”. THere are too many stories to share here but
I do have the book with me if anyone is interested. I’ve shared this many times over and have tried to get it published but to no avail.
Sounds interesting Therese. How can I read this book? I was 6 when Pearl Harbour was attacked but I remember the consternation in New Zealand when it happened. I have since visited Pearl Harbour twice and am going back again in Jan2013. I live in Australia now and have always watched on TV any documentaries relating to this infamous event .
Dear Ms. Rogers, My father was on the USS MARYLAND when The Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. I was not born yet. Daddy died in 1992, but it does not seem that long ago. I wish I had a way to read your father’s diary. Someone needs to publish it for all to read. How old was your father? My daddy was called “Chief” too. We all loved him and were very proud of him. I am proud of everyone who serves in the military and protects and our country. I am sure your Daddy was a wonderful person too. Sincerely, Deborah Duga
I would be very interested in reading your book entitled “Chief”.
My husband had a novel published last August on Amazon.com. Check out the requirements. Personal accounts of WW 2 are the best — that’s what I like to read.
I too, would like to read “Chief” Is that possible over here in Australia? I have a life long interest in what happened at Pearl Harbour and have visited the site 3 times. I was a 6year old at the time in NZ but the fear of a Japanese invasion after the fall of Singapore in Feb 1942 was very real.. We have a lot to be thankful for that the Americans came into the war and saved us. I remember US soldiers visiting us in a small town called Hastings in NZ. on R&R. Does that ring a bell with anyone?
I am writing this to honor my father, Tech. Sgt. Robert J. Ramsay, who was in the US Army 30th Infantry Division, 119th Infantry Regiment and saw combat in WWII. My father was awarded the Silver Star for taking out a German tank that had members of his unit pinned down. The military citation says my father took fire while finding a position to bazooka the German tank. My father died when I was 12 years old and unfortunatly at that young age I didnt understand the magnitude and importance of WWII and did not get to ask him questions about the war. Most of my fathers medals were lost throughout the years so about three years ago I wrote to the US Army and requested a full replacement of them. Many more requests and a year and a half later I received a package in the mail with all his medals including the silver star and a bronze star that he was awarded that I never even knew about. Opening that package and going through the medals, ribbons and citations brought tears to my eyes. Needless to say these are among my most cherished possessions.
What a touching story.
I am looking for any veterans who served in the Army during WWll from 8/44-6/46 and were part of the 101st airborne or even 82nd. My Grandfather is 87 years old and is not doing well health wise. He means so much to me and would love nothing more than to find someone that may have shared his experiences. I only know a little. What I think I know is that he was in Bastogne for a little rest. Fortunately, for my Grandfather, he was asked to run an errand for his commanding officer. When he got back from running the errand, there were no beds available, so he made his bed on the floor. Shortly, after getting settled in, a bomb struck the house killing all of his “platoon” (not sure if using the right term) except him and one other man. The explosion caused a door to fall on him.. saving his life and, even more amazing, with barely any physical injury. His friend was injured very badly and was flown away and he never knew what happened to him. He tallks about when they returned to the US after the war, he marched in a parade in New York City and the 101st marched with the 82nd because there were so few of them left.
Just realized I made an error. The house was not in Bastogne but a place along the Rine River…I will post the name if I find out for sure
Have an article I would like to post, part of my memoirs of American soldiers stationed at my hometown in Leicester, England. It was published last year in the Leicester Mercury.
Go ahead and submit your article for approval….
What follows is only the beginning of an account relating to the B17 and its crew. There are photos which I feel should be seen to realise the heroism of the crew whose names appear below. Unfortunately I am unable to attach the photos. I invite anyone who would like to read the whole episode and see the photos (a must). I am the son of a British WW2 Veteran who survived Dunkirk and I know that there might be survivors of this episode somewhere. Please email me at Hanojan@bigpond.net.au and I will be only too please to send you ther whole stroy, pictures and all. My name is Norman Jackson.
The Crew of the B17
Navigator – Harry C. Nuessle
Bombardier – Ralph Burbridge
Engineer – Joe C. James
Radio Operator – Paul A. Galloway
Ball Turret Gunner – Elton Conda
Waist Gunner – Michael Zuk
Tail Gunner – Sam T. Sarpolus
Ground Crew Chief – Hank Hyland
B-17 in 1943
A mid-air collision on February 1, 1943, between a B-17 and a German fighter over the Tunis dock area, became the subject of one of the most famous photographs of World War II. An enemy fighter attacking a 97th Bomb Group formation went out of control, probably with a wounded pilot then continued its crashing descent into the rear of the fuselage of a Fortress named “All American”, piloted by Lt. Kendrick R. Bragg, of the 414th Bomb Squadron. When it struck, the fighter broke apart, but left some pieces in the B-17. The left horizontal stabilizer of the Fortress and left elevator were completely torn away. The two right engines were out and one on the left had a serious oil pump leak. The vertical fin and the rudder had been damaged, the fuselage had been cut almost completely through connected only at two small parts of the frame and the radios, electrical and oxygen systems were damaged. There was also a hole in the top that was over 16 feet long and 4 feet wide at its widest and the split in the fuselage went all the way to the top gunners turret.
WOW, ever since I did the research for my novel, Double Shock I have enjoyed reading these stories about WWII. I think , out of all the wars, this one interests me the most. Thanks for sharing this story.
How can I send you the full story with photographs etc. It seems that email to email with attachments is the ideal way. Thanks…NJ
I realise that many of you writing and reading this Forum have been part of what I now call the people who saved me from Adolf. Thank you! Let me explain that I was born in Hamburg Germany to an officer in the Wehrmacht, the German Regular Army which my father joined in 1932, no doubt as there was no work about. I have now written a book on our family life from 1939 – 1954 which is the year I left school in Wales, part of the UK. I feel that many of you would find this book interesting reading. Why not have a look at http://www.farewelltohamburg.com and judge for yourself’s. Tell your friends about my book as has been said often to me “This is a story that has to be told”.
THANK YOU to all you HEROES for my freedom. My beloved dad was one of you. To say THANK YOU is lame, but please know millions and millions of us get it and are forever grateful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! May God richly bless each and every one of you.
Hello My Name Is Michael, My Grandfather Served In The Navy During WWII and iJust Had A Question For Whoever Can Answer It…His Grave Says US NAVY F2 WORLD WAR II Can Someone Please Tell Me What This Means ? I Am Joining The Military Also This Year
It was at this point that the screaming of low-flying aircraft drowned out our talking. The air was charged with the sound of explosions, many of them staccato followed by cannon bursts. This was followed by more explosions. Amid the deafening and frightening din, the railway engine was
hit. It exploded, sending shards of glass and metal flying into the air. The backdrop to the forest and sky became a kaleidoscope of explosive lights accompanied by puffs of smoke, which quickly scattered and evaporated.From the train, our gunners were glued to their anti-aircraft canons. Their ack-ack-ack return fire was deafening—so much so that we curled our arms protectively over our heads to try to shield ourselves from it. Attempts to protect our senses from the frightful sound of explosions and gunfire were futile. The noise seemed to penetrate our tormented
bodies and perhaps would have done so, even if we were stone deaf. In the midst of the cacophony, we made ourselves as small as possible, trying to shrink into the ground as people screamed in fear—maybe pain, we couldn’t tell the difference. Incendiary traces were lighting ghastly trails through the sky above the forest.
The attacking aircraft pilots had reduced it to a burning shell. Any hopes that, having achieved their aim, they might disappear, were dashed. Each plane circled, and then, with a deafening roar, swooped low over the trees. The planes fired their machine guns indiscriminately as they swept the forest with gunfire.
A few metres away, we saw a man falter and then collapse where he had stood. Soon afterwards, some dark stains appeared on the fallen man’s neck. We could make out people running and helping others. The elderly and the children were running deeper into the woods, putting as much
distance between themselves and the burning train as possible. “Get down, keep the trees between you and the shell fire!” yelled the man again and again. He was standing upright, and he didn’t seem to have any concern at all for his own safety. He seemed to have no fear at all. He just kept shouting the same instructions, repeating them in an attempt to minimise the casualties.
Every so often, he spun on his heels and faced different directions so everyone could hear him. There were at least six or eight fighter planes coming back at us again and again, often from different angles or directions. Their pilots realised that the trees were giving the train’s passengers cover, and they seemed determined to finish their work by killing us all. The
attacks seemed to go on forever, though it was likely that only minutes separated the attacks from beginning to end.
Darkness soon fell, and some returned to the train for blankets and food. Children were made comfortable and given something to eat. We tried to sleep, but we were too nervous, excited, and agitated by the attack. Railway people eventually arrived. They talked first to our father and then to the rest of us. They explained that the planes would not return because their fuel tanks would be empty.
Well, this is an exert from my book which you can look at and perhaps purchase at it’s own internet site http://www.farewelltohamburg.com and all of you may just be surprised that this truly occurred whilst I was a child in Germany, yes Adolf and his cronies may have started it all but our family including our father who signed on in to the German Army in 1932 would really have just had a peaceful existence. May be good to read about life on the other side.
Commanded by Major Raines US army signal core, 48 member I believe. We landed behind the 5th marine division; we couldn’t leave the beach over a week. The first air strip was never cleared for operation to my belief only 1 c47 landed to pick up the wounded; the female pilot was shot to the best of my knowledge. I remained in Iwo till December 1445.
The Marines declared the island secure on the 17th of March 1945. They held a very short ceremony and left the island.US army signal core took command of the Air strip. Damaged b29s began arriving some crew members bailing out, some planes where ditched while others went under repaired and returned to Saipan. The 21st fighter group arrived around the 20th of March (maybe to early). the evening of March 26th Sgt Carter, Sgt Kelly, and others where quickly moved to the outer perimeter with little to no ammo, gress gun, car bines to defend the air strip for what no body new why. Early on the morning of the 26th “all Hell” took place as over 400 Jap solders armed with mostly hand grenades’ attacked. By sunrise officially 100 dead 200 wounded and 429 enemy troops deceased. I believe most committed suicide. Sgt Carters mother was notified of his death receiving dog tags for William H Carter his metals a gold flag for her window of course with a letter of sympathy. She was notified a month later that it was another William H Carter of the 3rd or 4th marine division and not her son. The 21st fighter group suffered some fatalities from this engagement.
I Sgt Carter remained in Iwo to train for the invasion of Japan. Training was conditioning our minds that we would not return to the US. We were requested to send our wills home to someone other than our immediate family. thank good ness for the bomb we were burning Japan with 200 b29s what a sight every night burning Japan with may palm. SO there was not much difference the way i saw it. I received a Bronze Star for that night.
I hope this letter will somewhat ease the pain of those family’s that lost their love ones. I can ensure them they were heroes that words cannot explain. Again,
Brothers of Different Mothers. God Bless America!
*the above statement was first made by the first President Bush in regards to President Clinton.
I read your story several times it was so moving. Thank you for sharing it. You were a very brave soldier and individual experiences like yours deserve to be told. Again ,thank you.
My father….Dale Arganbright from Waterville Kansas served in the pacific theater including Guadacanal. He made it back but never really was someone i got to know as one of his youngest sons before the affects of the war impacted his life. He was in the army/infantry and I would appreciate anyone who happened to know him or served with him.. my email is arganbright.jerry@gmail.com should this note reach someone who recalls his name and service. Thanks.
James Harold Littrell (1920-2001)
Harold Littrell was my father. He joined the Army and, after training in the jungles of Panama, was sent to participate in World War II in Europe. My dad went into Normandy on D Day, June 6, 1944, and was a part of the Battle of the Bulge that December. He did not talk much about his experiences, but what he did say was memorable.
He served as an ambulance driver, which meant he was going close to the front lines to pick up wounded to transport them back to medical care; he had to drive with no lights after dark due to blackout conditions, dodging shell holes that could be deep. He learned to dig a foxhole as quickly as he could as soon as his unit stopped for the night. Of course, he frequently saw how fragile life is–how quickly death could come. He spent the major part of the war in dangerous conditions, but he survived.
By the end of the war he wore a staff sargeant’s stripes. He was sent back to the U.S. after VE Day (Victory in Europe), which was on May 8, 1945. On the ship home from Europe he saw the Statue of Liberty as the vessel came into port, a homecoming to remember! His Honorable Discharge from the Army was awarded on June 24, 1945.
He was a country boy; he had lived in rural areas all of his life, farming in Oklahoma and working in the coal mines of Harlan, Kentucky. After he and my mother married in September, 1945, they moved to St. Louis, Missouri, for him to train as a General Motors mechanic. When he would hear a siren while sleeping, he would jump out of bed, disoriented, thinking it was an air raid siren. After his GM training, my parents moved to a small, peaceful town.
In 1998 my daughter and I went to the theater to watch “Saving Private Ryan,” which vividly recalls World War II. Although the first 20 minutes were graphic, bloody and hard to watch, the movie struck home for me in so many ways, knowing that my dad was there and recalling the things he had said about the war.
Touching story and I had the same experience with my father in law, when seeing Saving Private Ryan. After the first minutes he had to get out of the cinema. This gave me a pretty good idea of what these then young guys experienced in WW2.
Thank for your story.
Allan.
Thank you, Allen. “Saving Private Ryan” showed us the horror of war and particularly of that time. I can only imagine from a distance what it was like for the young men who were actually there trying to survive while doing whatever they were ordered to do like your father-in-law and my dad.
My father was on guadacanal. He survived…..barely, and would appreciate replies at arganbright.jerry@gmail.com. His name was Dale Arganbright
Hi, I’m doing a research paper on how US Marines reacted to returning home and being confronted by people of Asian descent and whether it is considered racism or not. I am interested to hear stories about why events that caused such hate for someone with this face to develop and how they reacted to coming home. Did the sight make them think enemy at first or was there no change? How did they handle it? Thanks! Sorry if it’s a little vague,I’m in a rush.
i can only speak for my dad, he was in japan after the war was over, and he never got over what he saw. he said that he hopes that the world never again has to witness what in did during that time. he had no hatred of the japanese people . he did not tell us much about the war i do know he felt saddened for the people on japan.politicians declare war not the people.
I recently accessed the Marine Corps Service Record of my Great-Grandfather Marcus Lovett. He was 30 years old when he joined the Marines in 1943. He was one of the oldest men in his Barracks and was called “The Old Man.” He was an artillery spotter and surveyor at the rank of Corporal when he was shipped from Pearl Harbor to Guam and finally on February 19, to Iwo Jima. After the landings on the 19th, he disembarked his ship and set foot on the island on the 24th. He fought on the island from the 24th of February to the 17th of March. He received a Purple Heart for partial deafness in the right ear and was promoted to Sergeant. He was discharged in late 1945 after the war had ended. He passed away when I was 1 and I m 16 now. Although I never met him, I am proud to have a part of his, and my family’s history.
well what a coincidence, I left Hawaii unknowing what island i was bound for we stopped in Quam, Sipan, and wake island picking up Marines. After about two weeks i am almost citrin it was the 24th although dates did not mean a dame thing. I spent around a week on the beach that the 5th marines also landed on, the 3rd and 4th landed across the island. Soon after the marines set up a 155 weapon and begin firing. It was the first 155 i have seen in the past 2 years in the pacific. your grandfather was a supper hero. until you have heald a dying soldiers head in your arms waiting for them to dye and his last words where i wish moma was here. no stretcher, navy core men working with a 100 others, no helicopter. should i say anymore. he also earned the bronze star . Ill be 90 the 30th of march maybe one day he and i can discuss this.
many people do not know this but mexico had enter ww2 after lossing 3 tankers of the coast of florida to german subs. mexicos 201st airforce sqaud. served in the south pacific. hats off the mexico for there brave men who joined the allies.
I was wondering if anyone could tell me stories about WWII. I have a school assingment for interviewing people and I do not know anyone at lest not in person so can someone answer a few questions for me? My email is im9amanda@gmail.com
Searching for anyone who served in the CBI (China-Burma-India) theater of WW 2 especially anyone who served in the US 124th Cavalry as part of Mars Task Force. My husband’s uncle was a scout in the 124th. He passed away in 1949 from complications of a jungle disease obtained while serving in Burma.
I was born in 1958. My dad was in the navy and served on a mine sweeper during world war 2. I learn about the war mostly from movies, I new that a lot of guys had fought and died, that many were wounded and suffered tremendously, I was young, had my life ahead of me and I kind of felt sorry for these guys. The years went by I spent a few years in the army, I learn how the US tried to stay out of the war while Germany and Japan built up there war machines, and when Pearl Harbor was attacked our nation came alive and these boys signed up in record numbers to defend our nation. I learned how these boys fought against a powerful well trained enemy, how they fought against terrible odds, how they fought on no matter how long or dangerous because it was there duty. I learned to really respect these boys. The years went by, I got busy with my life and family, the stress of making a living can sometimes make you forget how blessed we are and the impact others have made in our lives. Later in learned more about these world war 2 veterans, men that would charge a machine gun nest to save the lives of others, men that would volunteer for dangerous missions knowing they might not make it back. Men that put there duty before themselves because the new the were apart of something bigger than there own lives. Men where uncommon valor was common, men that did come home and brag about what they had, for they knew the real hero’s didn’t come home. Men that didn’t have to prove themselves to others because they had done that on the many fields of battle. Now I have come to almost envy these men that saved this nation and the world, I know that because of them I was able to grow up in a free nation.
I am writing this from Belgium and I am looking for information about the US soldier Richard N Davis. He was in Belgium at the end of World War 2 and more particulary in a little town called Sint-Truiden. I know it is not much to go on, exept for the name, all I have is an old photograph owned by my mother. Mr Davis did spent a lot of time at my grandparents house and it would be so nice to find out what happend to him after all these years. Here in Belgium we are thankfull for everything the Us army did for our country back then. They brought us freedom at last.
I’m writing a book titled, “Why We Fought – Nazi Camp Liberators of St. Louis.” I’m seeking the stories of WWII veterans who have lived in St. Louis and encountered people imprisoned by the Nazis in camps, marches, trains, and forced labor factory facilities. 100% of proceeds will go to the Wounded Warrior Project.
To my fellow vets who fought in wwII ,
I’m looking for information about my uncle,ssgt. Edward J. Lynn.He was in the Army,joined on apr 29,1940. He fought with the 1st infantry and the 26th infantry co. I .he fought in North Africa ,”operation torch”,Sicilia,Italy “operation husky” and with force “o” on Omaha beach,Normandy . He was KIA on 11 June 1944 in Normandy.according to his mothers bible, he was awarded the bronze star,the silver star with cluster ,a Purple Heart in Africa and a Purple Heart posthumously for d-day. He is listed on the hall of heros for receiving a silver star.the family have only a few papers,mostly medical ,with his information because of the 1973 personnel files fire in St. Louis. I am making a shadow box with my family’s awards for my daughter.my father was in wwII ,my brothers in Vietnam, and myself in the navy.If anyone could let me know what unit citations and awards were given to the 1st infantry and the 26stinfantry during wwII or knew my uncle , please let me know . I would like the awards to be correct when I display them. I appreciate all the help my family could get. And from myself, I thank all who fought and protected our country and our way of life. !!!
Sincerely, Richard A. Lynn AC3 USN
I can be reached at tigerwbbull20@yahoo.com
Because of my love of the history of World War II and that entire period of time, I’ve written a Novel called the 2nd World War II which is in production and will be out in 8 – 10 months. This book is much different than anything out there. I literally took history and wrapped a novel around it. I cannot tell you how many hours of research I’ve put into this book trying desperately to make it as authentic and believable that something of this magnitude could actually have happened. I literally fell upon information that we did not learn in school and people are not aware of unless their true historians. Right now as my Novel is under production I’m in the process of writing the sequel. Unfortunately anyone I knew who actually played a role in the War both men and women are dead now. The purpose of this message is to reach out the veterans and their families of World War II, not only because I believe you will enjoy this book and may be able to relate, but also if you have an interesting story that I could include in the sequel. Unfortunately during the process of my first book I never thought about trying to get in contact through a website with a vet. Therefore I cannot necessarily promise I can add your adventure into the sequel, but I would love to hear from anyone who may be interested in sharing your experience. Thank you and God Bless.
PFC. John L Newby, 85th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, U.S. Army aircore. Entered the service from Texas. Awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart ,he was killed in Florence,Italy in the last battle on april 15 1946 of WW2.my grandmother hated FDR for taking her John L away from her,on her death bed she said that John L came to her with the little blue dress that she was married in and told her he was waiting for her that was on 01/16/2010 she passed away the next morning and I am sure her true love came to get her..
The people of Italy walk or ride out to the american gravesites every year and put flowers on the graves and repair the crosses and names then they sing the American National anthem over our boys that died overseas along with my grandfather John L Newby
Good evening ladies and gentlemen and all the ships at sea!! one thing I remember was my brother is a Army Ranger and we went to the VFW they had a dance going on with some of the big band music and one of the Ladies told my brother “when I was your age I could really cut a rug” so lets not only remember the men and women who fought in WW2 but remember the music also,Harry James,Glenn Miller,tommy and Jimmy dorsey,artie shaw, woody herman, charlie barnet,benny goodman,this is the music that gave a part of home to the boys overseas It is just as much a part of history as the war was
I have an American History project to do, if you could call me if you are a veteran of the vietnam war, WW2, the korean war or anything like that i would really appreciate. I just want to ask you some questions. (phone num deleted) my name is Marissa
Sir I have dogtags with these names .I wud like to return the dogtags to their owners or maybe create a trace for a lost relative from WW2 Finschafen Papua New Guinea. 1.DD Myers 20935501 .T42 . Ruth Myers Gen Del Stanfield Oregon. 2.Joseph h cummis 36222497 T42 Lena Cummis .Lancaster .Wiscosin USA. 3.WN Norquist 39077931 Ellen A NorQuist 309 S 23rd street Richmond Califonia USA. 4.Herber A Stellberg 36196991 T42 Ellen Stellberg 4096 Elm street Calumet Michigan Thank you email: susanwaide16@facebook.com
Appeal to all vetrans who once served at US station 237 hospital Finschafen Papua New Guinea.I am kindly requesting if you could contact me so we could discuss the possibility of erecting a Monument at the site where this hospital used to be.So the area can serve at a historical site for the Kalansam villagers and the US ww 2 war vetrens.Thank you email me
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joseph-cooper/dads-day-and-d-day_b_1603612.html
“Dad’s Day and D-Day”
My childhood memories left a long lasting impression of looking at Dad’s wartime medals kept in a drawer-the musty smell of the leather cases they were in, lined with red satin, opening them with wonder and pride, even at our young age. He was a radio communicator with the 101st Airborne, Five-O-Deuce and served Colonel Cole, Colonel Chappuis and Colonel Michaelis.
Dad never got upset at our pulling out his medals from time to time. I now wonder what was going through his mind as we sifted through his accomplishments, a Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Dutch Orange Lanyard and 4 bronze stars for battles in Normandy, Carentan, Holland and the Battle of the Bulge. We somehow knew not to ask too many questions. His sadness of losing his older sister, mother, and father when he was only ten, twelve and nineteen, respectively, leaving his as the eldest of five younger siblings, extended beyond explanation or what words could express. I used to think that Dad got very withdrawn and sad around Christmas, because his mother passed away around that time. But when I came across one of his wartime letters written about how he came to hate the smell of evergreen and pine trees during the Battle of the Bulge, and how it would forever remind him of that battle, I cried. You see, Dad went and cut down a pine tree every Christmas for us. We had no idea. How could we know the painful, silent and invisible weapons carried home from war known as post traumatic stress disorder?
Dad also kept photographs of the Holocaust and genocide concentration camps from WWII, Dachau in particular. When we asked why, he replied, “Because one day, people will say it never happened, and I have proof that it did.”
The “letters” are the best thing we can do until our soldiers return home again. The letters Dad wrote to his then sweetheart, who later became his wife and our Mother, was the driving force that kept him going in battle. Those letters which resonate sentiments of soldiers today have found a final resting place in the book, Comes A Soldier’s Whisper. My father will always be my hero. The older I get, I realize that he was the biggest influence in my life. It is with tremendous pride and heart that I offer this collection of wartime letters to be shared with other children and their heroes of that great generation and those to follow.
God Bless Our Soldiers, past, present and future.
My father, Frank Salter, was in the army (361st) during WWII. As a young boy growing up I became increasingly more interested in his personal war experiences. I urged him to reveal to me just what he saw but seldom recieved the desired response. However, it wasn’t until later years that he began to speak a bit more openly of that time. I recall him telling of a Christmas Eve he spent someplace in the couuntryside of either France or Italy. The unique thing about this was that he and fellow GI’s slept in a barn with the cattle. A Christmas to remember.
I am searching for any info about a man named jesse l. burnett 366 infantry born 2-19-20 died 3-9-66 if any info please contact me @ sandyxoxo45@yahoo.com THANK YOU
Looking for WW2, Korean War, and Vietnam veterans to interview and hear their stories for my book. Its not going to be a history book, its to be sure generations to come stop making you just statistics…. if interested, please contact me. Thank you so much.
I am WWII navy veteran both Atlantic and Pacific, was four years in the navy. mbhealthyliving@yahoo.com
I collect 1911 and 1911A1 pistols. I recently acquired a rusty gun that I have learned was carried during/after the Normandy invasion by Ensign Timothy Harrington ( now deceased) who was captain of an LCT delivering tanks to shore. I would like to determine if Ensign Harrington was indeed involved so that I can commemorate his service with a plaque placed with the gun. If there is a way to do that I would appreciate any help or suggestions. Please contact me at
kenham349@gmail.com thank you
From: World War II Stories >To: dubandjoyceb@att.net >Sent: Tuesday, September 3, 2013 1:59 PM >Subject: [New comment] Tell Your World War II Story Here > >Ken Hamilton commented: “I collect 1911 and 1911A1 pistols. I recently acquired a rusty gun that I have learned was carried during/after the Normandy invasion by Ensign Timothy Harrington ( now deceased) who was captain of an LCT delivering tanks to shore. I would like to determi”
Hello! I am writing my Master’s thesis on Omaha, Nebraska during WWII and am looking for stories of men, women, and children who were from Omaha during the war. If you have any information that would help in my writing process, please email me at becals9@gmail.com. Thanks!!
I am a veteran who was in WWII. About a year ago I shared few memories in a fellowship of writers page, yesterday the son of the man I helped contacted me and I am thrilled the Lord gave me this opportunity to talk to him, who knows, I might find other survivors and I would really like to get in contact. Please share one of my memories.
Memories from Second World War by Marvin Davis. Written in Fellowship of Writers on August 5th, 2012.
I had been trying to get Marvin to write on his first experience loosing the ship they were sitting on or standing on as he puts it. Although he considers this an egotistical share, I strongly believe his way of thinking at the time was outstanding and totally unselfish. This is his account of it.
It was the US Sturtevant 240 early in April 26, 1942. The fifth american ship sunk during WWII, although in our own waters and by mistake, no notice of a mined area given. It caught us by surprise. We found ourselves -all crew members, on the water. I belonged to Swimmers -the swimming team with special floating belts, those who advance to find out what is lying on the water and rescue survivors.
I was writing a letter to my mother and was late for 15 min. Second mine hit Fireroom where I was supposed to be while I headed to the place and I then knew we had been hit. The explosion broke the ship and all headed to the bridge and life boats, water now filled the place and the radio man standing there had lost contact so I told him we better get out of here. We swam into the water and away from the ship. Water full of oil, it was everywhere and everybody was covered by black fuel oil, but… the flame went out miracolously. We had just taken 90,000 gallons of fuel.
Lifeboat was full. We took ropes to tie everybody together. This time I had a decision to make while I was a survivor myself. Found some of the crewmembers around me and one of them was holding to a piece of debris, he looks at me and immediatly exclaims: I do not know how to swim. I thought nothing except take my safety belt and place it around him. Later, I hanged on to a crate of oranges.
Now when I recall this to Beatriz, she thinks I had risked since I did not know how many days I would be on the water and could loose my strength, but my thoughts were then: I have this piece of equipment that I do not need right now, but this fellow man does, so I gave it to him. Who was he? did he share the next vessell I was assigned? I never knew and never asked. But I did and do keep a feeling of having done the best I could.
A year later…
Written by Marvin on August 3, 2012. Fellowship of Writers.
I intend to begin a recollection of memories that impacted the 16-year-old kid who entered the Navy in 1940. All of them led him to give his heart to Jesus Christ time after.
It was 1942. We had stood four battles against Japs, rescued 251 sailors, some had been in the water for four days. The deck was full of survivors and a Jap plane spotted us and directed his attack firing bullets from bow to stern; miraculously the rifles not striking a single rescued survivor! God was with us.
I wrote mom the following letter (from US Meade 602).
Servicemen’s Lament
1.
Can’t write a thing
The censor’s to blame
Just say that I am well
And sign my name.
2.
Can’t tell where we sail from
Can’t mention the date
And can’t even number
The meals we ate.
3.
Can’t say where we’re going
Don’t know where will land
Couldn’t inform you
If I’m met by a band.
4.
Can’t mention weather
Can’t mention if there is rain
All military secrets
Must secrets remain.
5.
Can’t have a flash light
To guide me at night
Can’t smoke a cig
Except out of sight.
Can’t keep a diary
For such is a sin.
6.
Can’t keep the envelopes
Your letter came in
Can’t say for sure, folks
Just what I can write,
So I’ll call this a letter
And close with “good night”
I also contacted the son of a colleague salilor from this Meade ship, a few weeks ago.
My father served in the African and European theaters in WW II. He was lead Bombardier, 432nd Squadron, 12th Air Force flying in a Martin B-26. He earned the Distinguished Air Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He should have received a Purple Heart due to his injuries from a flack burst over a target, but said how would he reply when he got home and a guy with his sleeve pinned up asked him how he got his Purple Heart. He never felt he deserved one. He was shot down on 25/Feb/1945 over Munich Germany and was taken prisoner. He was liberated by the 3rd Armor Division on 22/April/1945. He went to live with the Lord in February of 2012 and was laid to rest with honors on 25/Feb/2012, 67 years to the day from when he was shot down. He had just turned 92! He never missed any of his bomb group reunions and kept in touch with all the surviving crew from his plane. At one reunion, he was interviewed for a documentary on the B-26. I have the show on DVD and it is also available on You Tube. It is one of the Battle Stations series on History Channel. When I really miss him, I watch him telling the story of being shot down. I always loved that story, he made it seem so routine, no big deal….. He stayed in the Air Force Reserve for many years, attaining the rank of Lt Colonel. One of his favorite things to do in his later years was to drive to Montgomery, AL and go for lunch at the Officer’s Club at Maxwell Field wearing his DFC pin. Without fail, some young officer would comment on it and Dad would tell him some war stories. Usually a crowd would gather and Dad would be in hog heaven, regaling young Air Force officers with tales of aerial combat. Dad and his generation were amazing men. They took on the world and kicked butt, then came home and built the greatest country on the planet! My those who have passed Rest In Peace in God’s embrace.
Looking for anyone from theThird DivisionInfantry served at the battle for Anzio wherehe wa wounded. I believe he served in the 15th C Company? Walter Edmonds is his name. he was a skinny kid from South Boston, a rifleman. He often mentions a fellow nicknamed “Red” . I have a recording of him singing the Third Division “fight” song!
Dear Deborah O’Connor,
I have read your story and that you are looking for soldiers who served with your father in the 3rd Division Infantry, possibly the15th C Company in the Battle of ANZIO.
A few years ago a US Army Veteran, SGT. Harry Owens came to visit the former WW2 US Coast Artillery Monument in Curacao, which I manage with my foundation, Battle-Station Blaauw, Force Curacao 1942.
I have not had connection with him for some time, but just the other day his daughter sent me an email, but did not mention her father.
I will send her an email with the above mentioned inquires.
Kind regards,
Allan D.van der Ree
Curacao D.W.I.
My grandfather, Henry Wade Miller was a private in the marine corps I believe but it is getting very difficult trying to find his info. He survived the war and came home with my grandmother Josette Trombosky now Lightsey whom was born in Nancy, France in a bomb shelter in 1943 after the war they had married and moved to Farmersville Texas having three children, my father and my Uncle and Aunt and if you can find any info about him I would be more than thankful
College history student in search of WWII veterans willing to tell their story and pass the legacy to the next generation
My father, Allen Leroy Christ fought with the 83rd Division in France and Belgium. He landed on Omaha Beach some time in June of 1944. He fought for seven months in various locations and small towns. He received the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, and various other medals mostly after he passed away. He fought in the battle of the Hurtguen Forest along the border between Belgium and Germany. He was wounded some time in January in the Hertguen Forest. He carried a bible in his top pocket during the “push”. When he finally got to the hospital the nurses undressed him and told him that “he may want to keep the bible that he carried in his pocket.” When he opened the bible he found that the bible had stopped at piece of scrapple that surely would have pierced his heart. I still have that bible with that piece of steel. I know for sure that without the bible I wouldn’t have existed. So in essence the bible was as precious to me as it was to him. I am looking for anyone that may have fought with him or may remember him. He was from a small farm town of Leesport, north of Reading, PA. He was one of five brothers. One brother had died very young. I would love to talk to anyone that may have been there with him. I am very proud of what my father and his generation did for the world. They truly are the greatest generation. Their sacrifice is unmatched in our country. My father’s life was one of constant sacrifice. Before the war that farm boy was a very talented musician so much so that he applied and was accepted at the Julliard School of music. He saved every penny he made so he could go to Julliard and maybe could have been a great composer or musician. Instead, he gave his money to his younger brother so he could get a college education while he went off to Europe to fight. As I said before, his life was a life of constant sacrifice. I never realized what he had done until I was in my early twenties. At that time I realized what they had all done and the life that they all gave me. I understood that I should be grateful ever day of my life. From my early twenties to about five years ago I would call him religiously on the morning of June 6 thanking him for what he had done. I knew that as each year passed there would come a time when I could no longer thank him for what he had done. Today he is gone and I no longer have the ability to hear his voice when I thank him. The funny thing is that he never considered himself a hero. He used to say to me that the real heroes are buried on the hill above Omaha. Such a humble man he was. In conclusion, I would love to hear from someone that remembers him or may have fought along side of him. Todd Christ at todchrist@yahoo.com. Posted 08 Dec 13
My dear friend Mr Julius Slaughter. While in the Navy he served in World War II on the USS Wilson in the Pacific Ocean where he earned a Purple Heart defending the attacks of kamikaze pilots and later became recognized as one of the last remaining survivors of that era. After World War II he left the Navy and joined the Air Force to become one of only 13 to reach the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.
Julius lived 83 rich and exciting years. NOTE: He very seldom spoke of these heroic acts, though.
A big hello to any GI veterans from WW2.I wonder if anyone there was ever accosted on Westminster bridge by a nine year old lad with words “Got any gum chum?”. It might well have been me because as soon as word got around that there was a reliable source of sugar in town we were there on a regular basis. We found that GI’s were extremely generous and never had a refusal. Being young we had no idea really why you were all there but when we were old enough to understand we began to realise just how much the Americans did for us and the whole of Europe. So very belated big thank you from all of us in London who are old enough to understand the enormous sacrifices that were made by Americans on our
Hello,
I am helping a dear friend who is coming to visit South Dakota in April. She lives in Australia, but was born December 15, 1944 in the UK. Her father was stationed in the UK during WW2, and she believes he is from South Dakota.
Here is her story. I am hoping you can help by sharing this with anyone who may have some connection and can help fill in the missing pieces to this story:
During WW2, many US military were stationed in Llandudno, a seaside resort in North Wales,UK, in various camps mainly along Gloddeath St. The officers were also billeted with local families here and near Conway.
My mother’s name was Winifrid Norah Bromley. dob 5/12 1908. She met my father in Llandudno – a seaside resort in North Wales – where she lived with her mother on Nant-y-Gamer Rd. She had one sister and two brothers who were not living at home.
I am not sure of the year she met my father either 1943 or 1944. I was born on 15 December 1944, and my name is Angela. I am not sure if my mother had started working at Sandbach’s Cafe on Moystyn St Llandudno before or after I was born. In the earlier part or the war she was a nurse in the south of England.
Apparently my mother met my father in one of the officer’s dance/musics spots where she went often to see him.this was located in St Georges Place
The town woke one morning to find all the camps and men gone. Perhaps for the D Day landing?
My mother had not told my father she was pregnant and she may not even have known herself until after he left. My mother turned up at a friends in a bad state when realising she was pregnant and was cast out by her mother ( my Grandmother) who only let her home after I was born and after telling everyone my mother had been secretly married.
My mother changed her surname and mine from Bromley to Robinson by deed poll in 1946. My fathers name appeared on my baptismal certificate at the local Catholic Church as Michael John Robinson about a year after I was born. Before she died my mother disposed of this baptismal certificate but I have a copy of it from the local Church which I acquired when I last visited Llandudno. I suspect that this was a name that my mother made up. It sounds very English!
I tried to find out about my father, but all my mother would say was that he was killed in the war before I was born and I seem to remember that she said he flew somewhere and was killed. Also that he was a good man and had one sister. Not sure that whether this was his only family.
That he was from the Dakotas (South I think) and that he was Indian (maybe part I do not know). She used to sing me a song often – “Take me back to the Black Hills, the Black Hills of Dakota” – but that is all I can remember.
That is her story. A photo of Winnie in 1944 is included below.
If anyone has any suggestions or information, please email or call me. I will be bringing her to see South Dakota in April, and any suggestions on where to visit would be most welcome.
celiaguilford@me.com
1.204.396.3930
Sincerely,
Celia Guilford
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Let me first say what a deep appreciation I have for all of you who have served this country with such honor. I can only hope future generations will draw from your collective strength when we do find ourselves in crisis.
I am 34 and am the Business Manager of A Community Theatre in Scottsdale, AZ. We are producing Biloxi Blues this summer and when I was scheduling the season I immediately saw that the only logical opening date was June 6. Being a history major who has studied this conflict extensively I immediately knew it was the 70th anniversary of The Normandy Invasion that is often referred to as “D-Day”
For those who haven’t seen the movie or play, Biloxi Blues is the memoirs of the playwright Neil Simon of his Basic Training experience in Biloxi. It is a great story and I have wanted to produce it for years. I want to honor these great veterans and tickets will be complimentary to all WWII vets as well as an increased Veterans discount for all that have served.
I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share the experience of those who were there, I would love a WWII veteran to come to opening night and do a brief talk back with the audience after the show, sharing their experiences. If it was a veteran who had trained in Biloxi and or had fought in the Normandy campaign it would be ideal but by no means is it essential. I am hoping someone can give me guidance on finding someone who would be able to share with an audience of 60 people for roughly 15 minutes. I think it is important for people to know these stories and I would be thrilled if I could find someone to make this happen. I am in the Phoenix area so let me know if there is a first step I can take in my search. Feel free to reply, email me at justin@desertstages.org or call at 480-296-8746.
Thank you and god bless,
Justin Heffner
Business Manager
Desert Stages Theatre
Justin Heffner
Good morning Mr. Heffner,
I just read your blog and I would like to extend a heart warm congratulation to you on your upcoming film. I also have honored World War II veterans in a much different way. I am a first time novelist from Pennsylvania that has proudly written a three book series, titled The 2nd World War II. To the best of my knowledge, nothing has ever been done like this before. The first book has just been released and the second should be out by the end of the summer. I’m presently finishing the third book which should be going into production very shortly.
The 2nd World War II is a history based novel with pieces of history throughout the three books that most people have no knowledge of. Because of my undying love of World War II and that time period, it was important to me when writing the story that I honored not only the men and women of America, but I have also brought out facts of heroic European men and women who contributed to the victory as well. Although, with the extensive research I had done and facts that I had uncovered, unfortunately there are many others that I wasn’t able to fit into the story. However, I take great pride in the fact that I worked in groups of people that contributed in many different ways, and has had very little recognition through the years.
American history doesn’t teach us enough and some of the facts are not correct. It’s important to get out as much knowledge about that horrific war especially since that generation is beginning to dwindle.
If you may be interested in contacting me, please feel free: 215-355-7977. Email: the2ndworldwarII.
Thank you, and God bless ALL the veterans and hero’s of World War II.
Laura Dothe Hellwig
The 2nd World War II
The 2nd World War II – Civil War
The 2nd World War II – The New World
I need to tell you about John Wagner. He’s 94 now, and a WWII vet. He served 42 months. He and his family have owned 5 acres of property in Mentone, Calif. since the 1940’s. On that property he stores recreational vehicles. He was just served a “Notice of Violation” by the County of San Bernardino. In that notice it states in part: “Remove Recreational Vehicles from property, you have 21 days to comply.” This is how he earns his living for he and his wife. How can we do this in America? Put him out of business, threaten him with fines, and demolition of his property. How can we help John who helped provide us with the freedoms we have today?
You should start a petition on Change.org about this. It’s terrible how we treat the vets in this country.
My son and I recorded an interview with my father about his WWII experiences. Would this be of any interest?
This would be of a great interest to me, Mario. I am compiling memoirs for a book to honor the Great Generation. If you would like to be involved, please contact me. john8-7@hotmail.com
I would be interested in it, feel free to contact me: szilagyiviktoria19@gmail.com
Hello Mr. Rossetti,
I know it’s been a long time since you’ve made this post, but if you’re still interested in sharing your interview with your father, I would love to hear it and potentially use it for my senior writing project at the University of Mount Union (with your permission, of course). If you are interested, please email me at schlanam@mountunion.edu
I AM LOOKING FOR INFO ON THE 42ND RAINBOW DIVISION OF THE ARMY ,TRYING TO FIND OUT WHAT BATTILLION MY FATHER WAS IN HIS NAME WAS JOHNNIE W. BALLINGER . HE FOUGHT IN WW11, I REMEMBER HIM TELLING ABOUT LANDING ON BEACH AND GOING THRU AUSTRIA , ON TO DAUCAW ,THE TO STALINGRAD,AND THE PRISON WHERE THEY INCERATED ALL THOSE PEOPLE,HE ALSO WENT INTO HITLERS UNDERGROUND HIDEOUT WOULD LOVE ANY INFO ON THIS MY FATHER PASSED AWAY ON JULY 2ND 1999.
Looking for wife of D.J. Wilson (her name is Shirley) he died May 2, 2002, she went to a rest home and called me, but didn’t say which home in Dallas she went to. Is there a directory of veterans surviving wives that would help me to find her (she had 5 daughters I think all in Houston, TX and one son in Dallis as I recall. He was a friend of Lee Marvin the movie actor, same division the 4 Marine, WWII. My name is Andrew Carthew, 5831 Sandhurst Lane, Dallas, TX 75206
Hello, my Grandfather Pvt. Milton Ratcliff Sr. was African American. He served in the Air Force between 1946-48, as part of the Squadron F 7th Airdrome at Carswell Air force Base.
His army serial number was 18246533.
I have received his file from the National Personal Records Center. Does anyone reading this board have any information on his squadron?
D. Ratcliff
Please email me at ratcliff1978@gmail.com
when i was a young child i had my first ss nightmare. a follower of hitler , but i did not yet understand why he was ss because i was to young said to me : you only paint beautiful things, why not things that die ? but i did not do that, and after that he started to bully me . karma is a bitch , we have different lifes now .
Can anyone tell me his experiences, stories in connection with pin-up girls/piin-up girl advertisements during World war II?
Thanks in advance!
My Father was a WWII Vet. He as drafted @ 18years and became a bombardier on a B17 with the 305th. On his 5th mission, he was shot down over German occupied Holland. He worked with the Dutch Underground until his position was liberated by Allied forces. He wrote down his experiences before he died last year. The book, WWII Memories by Theodore Roblee is available on Amazon. We must not forget these brave vets!
I was not in the military however I wanted to share this .. My grandfather James Murphy was in world war 2 he is a Marine he remained active in helping other vets he was a great man who was loved by everyone and touched so many lifes he received his pedigree a couple of years ago which was a great honor for him, he past away last week at the age of 85.. I am sharing this because I wish others would take the time to help other vets the way he did. It is men like him and others that allow me and my family to live in a free world
I am a 88 year old ww11 vet,Just woanted to thank you for your coment.
What these Vets did for us must not be forgotten. I am so glad my father wrote about his experiences before he died. When I read his words, I can still hear his voice! Thank you for sharing your memories.
Sent from my iPhone
Hi everybody. I was the first born from the union of my parents during WW2. So I like to read about the various episodes in other people’s lives and how WW2 affected those who put their lives on the line for their country.
I came to Australia in 1966 and am proud to call myself an Australian (Naturalized).
We often speak of the courage and determination of our veterans in times of conflict and I would like to share with you one of the moments in our history when we were called to front up for mother England in the early stages of WW 1.
I will leave it to you, should you be interested to read about it, to search the internet with the words GALLIPOLI. The ANZACs (Autralian and New Zealand Army Corp) landing in 1915.
All the best and have a G’day (Good day).
NJ. Perth Western Australia
My father Harry Thomas Jackman was a navigator on the Baby Buggy B 17 in WW I I. He flew in the European theater. I’m very proud of him. He is 91 an dc lives in The Villages in FL. I’m glad I found this Web site. Please keep if going.
Is there any possible way I could talk to him if he is still alive?
Thanks!
Michael J. Rearden
Who am I? I am a veteran of WW II and Korea. I went overseas in early 1943. Was in IwoGima In late February 1945 .I am from Springfield South Carolina . I am 91 years old. My e-mail is wcsam1@bellsouth.net . Would love to hear from other vets. Sgt. William Carter
Hi. I’m a middle schooler and I have a history project where I have to interview a D-Day veteran. Is there any vet who would be willing to help me out in this way? We could do it by phone to make it simpler, if you’d like. I’ve really been liking learning about D-Day and realizing there were so many things I didn’t know about it. Thank you for your service.
hi
my dad ed rice will be 90 on nov 23, 2014. he is a world war vet who served in europe in the 65th infantry and was the first divisiion in mauthausen-gusen.
he would love to speak with anyone from his division or any other vet. if there is any one wanting to interview a ww2 vet or please contact me.
thank you
debby anziano
Debby, I would love to interview your dad. I wrote my Master’s Thesis on the pacific front, but would love to learn more about the European front especially to hear it directly from a vet!
Please email me at sraptis@barnard.edu
Thank you.
This month Verse-Virtual joins with poet Kevin Heaton in honoring his father, Albert Heaton.
http://www.verse-virtual.com/kevin-heaton-2015-january.html
I have a question. My son is a senior at West Point. He is doing his senior thesis on US Armor in Europe during WWII. I think he would be both honored and more informed if he had the opportunity to talk to a veteran tanker who fought in the ETO during this time. Does anyone have any suggestions on best way to make contact with any surviving vets?
hi my dad was a ww11 veteran in europe and would love to talk to your son about the war. he would be very helpful and give good information his name is ed rice pob 184 bondville, vermont 05340 and the best way to reach him is by phone 802 297-1640 if you tell me when he would call, i can make sure my dad is home thanks my number is 415 609-0015 or danziano@yahoo.com
Sent from my iPad
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My father was a WWIi vet. He was shot down over German occupied Holland & worked w the Dutch Underground. He passed away last year but did write down his experiences w many documents from that time. I would be happy to discuss if interested. 847-970-1427.
Thank you very much. I will pass this information to my son!
You can try contacting the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. They were a good resource for my when writing my thesis.
My father, Allen Leroy Christ fought with the 83rd Division in France and Belgium. He landed on Omaha Beach some time in June of 1944. He fought for seven months in various locations and small towns. He received the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, and various other medals mostly after he passed away. He fought in the battle of the Hurtguen Forest along the border between Belgium and Germany. He was wounded some time in January in the Hertguen Forest. He carried a bible in his top pocket during the “push”. When he finally got to the hospital the nurses undressed him and told him that “he may want to keep the bible that he carried in his pocket.” When he opened the bible he found that the bible had stopped at piece of scrapple that surely would have pierced his heart. I still have that bible with that piece of steel. I know for sure that without the bible I wouldn’t have existed. So in essence the bible was as precious to me as it was to him. I am looking for anyone that may have fought with him or may remember him. He was from a small farm town of Leesport, north of Reading, PA. He was one of five brothers. One brother had died very young. I would love to talk to anyone that may have been there with him. I am very proud of what my father and his generation did for the world. They truly are the greatest generation. Their sacrifice is unmatched in our country. My father’s life was one of constant sacrifice. Before the war that farm boy was a very talented musician so much so that he applied and was accepted at the Julliard School of music. He saved every penny he made so he could go to Julliard and maybe could have been a great composer or musician. Instead, he gave his money to his younger brother so he could get a college education while he went off to Europe to fight. As I said before, his life was a life of constant sacrifice. I never realized what he had done until I was in my early twenties. At that time I realized what they had all done and the life that they all gave me. I understood that I should be grateful ever day of my life. From my early twenties to about five years ago I would call him religiously on the morning of June 6 thanking him for what he had done. I knew that as each year passed there would come a time when I could no longer thank him for what he had done. Today he is gone and I no longer have the ability to hear his voice when I thank him. The funny thing is that he never considered himself a hero. He used to say to me that the real heroes are buried on the hill above Omaha. Such a humble man he was. In conclusion, I would love to hear from someone that remembers him or may have fought along side of him. Todd Christ at todchrist@yahoo.com. Posted 08 Dec 13
Hello all,
I am a college student studying recent American History. I would love to interview a surviving vet or family member that can discuss living in post war America. If anyone can help it would be much appreciated!
Hi my dad is surviving vet who served in Europe snd loves to talk about the war
His name is Ed rice
802 287-1640
He lives in vermont
You can also email me and I could set up a time
Thank you
Wow thank you so much Debby! If you’re sure he won’t mind, I’d love to interview your father. My email is dchaknis@yahoo.com. If you’d like, email me and we can work out the details.
Hey Debby, I am currently trying to put together a book with stories from WWII, Korea, Nam’ veterans, I sadly do not live in or near Vermont, so is there any other possible way for me to contact him? Thanks!
If anyone who is a WWII veteran who wouldn’t mind talking to me about their stories would like to talk to me about them would be amazing. One of my dreams is to meet or talk to a WWII veteran because you guys are all heros. I’ve read many books and watched many documentaries on the war and you all have deeply inspired me and have completely changed my perspective on life. I understand that no one other than those who fought in the war could even remotely understand what you all went through but I just think every single one of you who laid their life down or who came back home are the most brave and heroic men ever. The greatest people came out of that generation and I highly admire you all.
Get in touch with various Senior Retirement centers in your area – that is a good way to find them. I wrote a book last year full of WW2 Veterans’s memoirs, it was an amazing endevour and besides going to American Legion centers, and DC, it was the Senior homes that helped the most….. Good luck!!
Growing up with my father we never knew he was a veteran of World War II serving in the European campaign he never mentioned it we eventually Fallon a black zippered bag in his closet when we uncovered it it was a Green wool dress uniform with metals and things in the pockets and his papers Etc towards the end of his life he kept telling us that his buddies we’re visiting him and he had to get ready and go with them.. they were in his bedroom… and his last words before dying were…” tell the men the bridge is collapsing and we are not going to make it ” I have his dog tags and I wear them on a silver chain Arnold Benjamin Meyer Bronx New York
Hello I’ve went through so many pages over the internet looking for answers about my Grandfather who was in the US Army. The only thing that I know about him is his name “Edward Winston Cheesman” I know he was in the US army and was base in the Pacific (Fiji or Tonga) around the Pacific war or world war 2 (either one) he married my grandmother (Catherine Tupou)around the 1930s – 1940s as my dad was born in 1946, my dad never met his father but i’m so curious to know anything about him which will be helpful for my research. My father’s name is Paul Edwin Cheesman. I have a picture of him but can’t really make anything out of it because it’s blur so I have a feeling there’s information about him right in front of me but i’m searching on all the wrong places. If anyone know anything about my grandfather (Edward Winston Cheesman) maybe he was MIA or something not sure..hopefully i’ll get some information.
My Grandpa, Pop Pop and Nana all were in WW2. Right now I am focusing on any information about what unit and any other details of my Grandpa’s time during WW2. I have quite a bit of information regarding when he went into the military, where he was stationed and that he fought in the European Operation and Battle of the Bulge. His name is John Smith (of course he has pretty much the most common name). I was told he was in infantry. He was from Hatboro, PA and joined the Army at Fort Meade, MD. He was also at Fort Benning, GA (I am guessing for training). I was also told that his CO was killed at the Battle of the Bulge and that he picked up his CO’s side arm. While he was alive, my Grandpa never spoke of his time in the Army and never mentioned who his CO was. I know he also earned, at least, a bronze star. My Grandma had all his military stuff but gave it to some guy who claimed he wanted to put it in a military museum, even though both my brother and I had shown interest in having his medal(s) and patches. Any help would be greatly appreciated as my whole family would like to know more about his time during WW2.
Hi! I am a home-educated, junior high student who is currently studying a unit on WWII. One of my assignments is to interview a WWII veteran. I am willing to have a phone or email interview with any WWII veteran who is willing to share his/her story. Thank you so much for serving our country.
If interested, please reply.
Remembering my uncle, Torao Hayashi.
http://www.bakersfield.com/entertainment/soldier-paid-ultimate-price-for-country-who-interned-his-family/article_6740a1f6-fbd3-5384-ba46-12bfcee6dd01.html
Love all these stories and so grateful for these heroes, esp. every Day-Day memorial each
year. My dad, a WWII Marine/US State Dept courier, was sole passenger on a flight from England
to NY on the invasion day, June 6, 1944. These behind-the-scenes “soldiers” were heroes too.
My great uncle Richard Downey was in chezlsovakia and my great great grandmother see him a can on mixed nuts.He was sitting in a tank when he opened them. When he opened the he found worms.He threw it away. The village kids ran up and are the nuts and worms.Turns out the Waffen SS starved there village like all the other ones.
Sorry about spell errors I have horrible autocorrect
Hello all,
My name is Abbey Schlanz, and I’m a writing major at the University of Mount Union. For my senior project, I’m doing research on WWII veterans and turning it into an audio story. My inspiration for this project is my grandpa, Robert J. Schlanz, whose military journal I found last year. He served in Italy between 1945 and 1946 in the 24th Replacement Depot. He passed away in 2009, but I’m looking for other veterans whose stories I can help tell.
Ideally, I’d like to find someone who served in Italy, particularly Leghorn/Livorno or Naples, between 1945-46, but I will interview anyone with stories to share. If you’d be willing, I was wondering if I could interview you over the phone and potentially record our conversation. You wouldn’t have to share anything you’d feel uncomfortable telling.
If you have a loved one who was a veteran and who has passed away, but you know their story and still would like to share it, I’d love to hear from you, too. My email address is schlanam@mountunion.edu.
My fathers story, a Norwegian sailor ended up in the Corregidor fighting 1941-42.
https://www.tkibsgaard.com/
My father nearly died of malaria in the WWII jungles of New Guinea. This is the opening line of a proposed book that I am in the preliminary stages of research and writing. It will tell of my father’s story – he was Woodrow F. Nelson (1913-1993), part of the U.S. Army’s 1462nd Engineer Maintenance Company, stationed in New Guinea – 1943-45. In addition to his battle with malaria, I also plan to write about the thousands of soldiers impacted by disease in the tropical Pacific during the WWII years. If you have any stories or recollections of family members who served in the Pacific and were affected by disease, particularly malaria – and its aftermath in the post-war years – please contact me.
Thanking you in advance – Rich Nelson, Muskegon, Michigan. richmskgn@comcast.net If you have any copies of materials you would like to send me by traditional mail, please e-mail requesting my address here in Michigan.