Hello veterans and friends of the 75th Division !

The last newsline seems to be so long ago, that I already receive emails from worried members, that ask if I am still o.k. This newsline became very long and contains mostly text, but I am planning the next newsline: I have recieved a lot of phantastic photos via email from Reg Perkins. I am thinking about sending them out to you all. I am only afraid that this will be a huge newsline, about 3-5 MB. Shall I send them anyway ? Suggestions please.

Who can take the photos and build a 75th website with them, so we can start the virtual photo album ?  (Steve, would you do it ?)
 

The next big reunion of the 75th will be in September in Houston, Texas.
Just an idea of a non-veteran: For some members, it is not very easy to travel long distance. Would it be interesting for 75th ID veterans to meet in a local area, even if you were not in the exact same unit ?

A proposal:
If you send me an email like:
„I was a member of the 290th and live in the Atlanta, GA. area. I would like to prepare a meeting at the July 4th in that area. Please bring your photos and memories“
....I would publish this in the next newsline. Maybe veterans and relatives of veterans could meet without travelling too far. They can contact the sender of the message so he can see if there would be enough participants.

Please do your buddies a favour:
We have about 10 search requests in this newsline. Please see if you can help the member with some infos, even if they are only small or just a tip. Maybe you saw a website or a book. This is the goal of this newsline: To bring the vets together and to help each other.
 

*Keep five yards.
(*Means spread out so one round won't get us all.)

Rolf G. Wilmink
„German by birth, american by heart, P.I. by profession„.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
For your calendar:

Next 75th Div reunion:  Houston, Texas, September 9th, 10th and 11th 1999
City tours will be offered and include a Round About Houston,The Houston Space Center with an optional Galveston Evening , an experience of Texas history and tour of the Battleship Texas and a Waterfront tour, as well as two unique post reunion trips,a 3 day,2 night program to San Antonio and a 1 week Mexican/Caribbean Cruise on the Norwegian Lines both start Sunday Sept. 12th and a barbecue evening on the 75 exercise group property is also planned.

The coordinator is CSM Phillip Kraus. His adress:
                              CSM Philip Kraus
                              75th Infantry Division (Exercise)
                              1850 Old Spanish Trail
                              Houston ,Tx  77054-2025
                              Phone  800-390-2530    ext 7509
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
75th Div reunion year 2000: Peoria
(more infos as soon as we have them or contact the
75th Div Vets. Assn. President Parker, see adress below).
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

              List of contents:

1.) Feedback regarding newsline No. 36   ( 4 June 1999 )
2.) Reunion 291st, M Company !
3.)  Help with unit history 291st FA Obsn Bn
4.) New info on Jonas McCall of 290th, 2nd, F
5.) Attention researchers !!
6.)  Signal corps specialist wanted
7.) Patch of which unit ?
8.) Who remembers Pvt. Jesse W. Greer, Jr., Co. F, 290th Infantry?
9.) New member Pfc. Arthur E Shapiro, 289th Inf Regiment
10.) Who knew Pedro A. Herrera from Seguin, Texas USA.?
11.) Who knew SSG George Paul Trost from Williamsport, PA ?
12.) Who knew PFC Macon Haynes, Company L 290th Regiment ?
13.) Who has infos on BG Charles F. Doron ?
14.) Who knew PFC Charles L.(„Benny“)  Stevens ?
15.) Who knew James Ralph Johnson ?
16.) Website 10th Infantry Division and WWII Army Bases
17.) Website on the Battle for La Roumiere
18.) The Bulge/1944
19.) Hair Cutting Time in Belgium
20.) Merchant Marine Veterans
21.) AIR FORCE BASE SHOCKED
22.) United States Army Order of Battle - ETO - WWII
23.) Medal of Honor recipients
 

                                   \\|//
                                  (o o)
-- -------------oOOo-(_)-oOOo-------------------75th DIVISION online
**********************************************************************************
DON'T BE A LURKER.... GET INVOLVED... YOU ARE A MEMBER... MAKE THE MOST OF IT
**********************************************************************************
(actual count: was 163, now 174 members online worldwide !)
 

1.) Feedback regarding our newsline No. 36 ( 4 June 1999):
 

Jay Puckett wrote:

Rolf,
I was just writing to make sure you are OK...I haven't heard from you for quite sometime and figured you are probably busy with work.
Take Care,
Jay
------------
Jay,
thanks for your request. Yes I´m fine. We had the annual celebration here of our traditional rifle association of 1836, where I had to command the whole battalion. After the celebrations, I had to see that I keep up with my paperwork again.Next newsline will be coming around this weekend.

Greetings from Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink
----------------
From: "Jay Puckett" <jpuckbird@email.msn.com>
Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 16:49:01 -0500

Good to hear everthing is fine...guess you have been busy !!  I look forward to the next Newsline!!

Best,
Jay
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: Mavsnv@aol.com
Date:  Tue, 6 Jul 1999 16:45:01 EDT
RE:    Latest Newsline

Hi.  Was just wondering if there had been a newsline in July?  I look forward to them.  Thanks.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: Di6191@aol.com
Date: Fri, 4 Jun 1999 08:46:04 EDT
Re: 75th Infantry Div.

Dear Rolf,

Thank you for the information.  I have read some of the newsletters and have found them very interesting.  I also have the address for the association and my father is interested in joining.  I have enjoyed listening to my father's stories of Europe and will enjoy reading your newsletters.  With your permision, I would like to print them out for my father, as he doesn't have a computer.

Thanks again for a wonderful website.

Diane Horrigan
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date:  Fri, 04 Jun 1999 15:59:43 -0700
From: Audri & Chuck Allred <allredanc@olympus.net>
Re: 75th Div. FLAG

Dear Rolf - I regret that my ability to obtain a 75th Div. Flag as yet has not materialized, so it will be better not to give my name on the Internet as a source of supply.  Since the flag may be available through the Secretary, Jim Warmouth, of the 75th Div.Assoc., it would be best to go in that direction because the flag would be of correct specifications.  If I get any further information, I'll be in touch.
Thanks for all that  you do.  Chuck Allred.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: Velotec@aol.com
Date:  Fri, 4 Jun 1999 15:46:27 EDT
RE:    On-going 75th flag search
 

Dear Rolf:
        I printed out copies of the letter I sent to Jacqueline, and your suggestions concerning the 75th's flags from today's newsline for my Dad. He will snail-mail the copies to Mr. Warmouth, (who is now in Florida for a ten day vacation) and the US Army Major who is the curator of the 75th's museum in Houston, Texas. Dad thinks your idea was an excellent one, and he will get behind it and try to make it work.

        I wish I had the know how to help you out more from here. But the fact is, my computer skills are just not sharp enough to even try. I wouldn't know where to start. I feel confident, however, that some second or third generation history buff will come forward to shoulder the responsibility, and keep the memory of the 75th's veterans alive for future generations. In the mean time, keep up the good work.

Yours Truly,
Forest Ratliff
(aka velotec@aol.com)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: "Graber, Stephen M." <Stephen.M.Graber@bender.com>
RE: 75th Inf Div newsline no. 36 (4 June 1999)
Date: Fri, 4 Jun 1999 14:29:42 -0400

Rolf,
Perhaps I could assist with the photos. I have a scanner and will be happy to assist with scanning and emailing/posting the photos on the web page if people send the photos to my home. As you know, my father is a veteran of the 75th Div. Let me know what you think. Thanks.

Steve
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: rmsmith1924@webtv.net (Robert M Smith)
Date: Sun, 6 Jun 1999 15:42:13 -0400 (EDT)
To:    billhedgpeth@integrityonline2.com
RE:   PFC Ralph Heller

Att: Susan

Dear Susan ,---- I  was sorry to learn that your cousin died of wound he received in combat on Oct 23, 1944.  Are you certain of this date??  I say this because the  75th Infantry Division was not in combat until Dec. 24, 1944 in the vicinity of Soy and Hotton, Belgium.  On the date you mention, the 75th Division was not yet in Europe...... Sometimes the 75th Infantry REGIMENT is confused with the  75th Infantry DIVISION. Do you think this is possible? What do his uniform patches look like? The 75th DIVISION patch is a red/white/blue diagonally  striped square with the numbers 75 in blue.

Suggestion-- look at some of his letters to his Mom and see what return address he used. Also if you describe the patches you have,  I will try to identify his unit.  I have a photo collection of WWII patches. If a family member has your cousin's  Honorable Discharge paper if would identify his unit for certain.

Good luck in your search.  If I am able to help with  any information you are able to  supply, I will be happy to do so.

Sincerely, Rob Smith, formerly, 75th Infantry Division, 290th Infantry Regiment.

PS: I will be out-of-town June 8 until June 20 so if you  e-mail me then  I will not be able to reply immediately.

GREETINGS  FROM  FLORIDA - U.S.A.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: twinsemi@us.ibm.com
Datum: Mon, 28 Jun 1999 12:54:39 -0600
RE:    Change of email for me

I am no longer going to be at IBM so my email needs to change to my home account.

danwin@gloryworks.com

Thanks,
Tom Winsemius
***************************************************************************

2.) Reunion 291st, M Company !

From:  "Richard & Clarice Schmid" <crhome@execpc.com>
RE:  M co reunion
Date: Tue, 29 Jun 1999 20:50:27 -0500

Hi Rolf
I hope you can post this information in the 75th Inf Divs next Newsline issue. "M" Co has had company reunions starting in 1985    We meet every 2 years and this years reunion will be held in San Diego Ca. We are with the 291 Regiment. 75th Div.

This reunion will be held
                    Oct 14-15-16 1999 at the
                    HANALEI HOTEL San Diego Ca.
We usually have about 35 to 50 folks attend if anyone is interested please contact
                   Al JIMENEZ 619-487-0652 or
                   12770 Rios Road San Diego Ca. 92128
A great program is always provided for all in attendence

I was one of the Army Air Force boys who joined "M"Co in Camp Breckinridge Ky.after it left Camp Leonard Wood Mo. in preperation for its overseas trip to Swanse Wales and 3 great battles afterwards. Stayed with the 75th thru it all and finished duty at the cigeratte camps until the unit came home.

I have every NEWSLINE you have published thanks to my daughter Jacqueline Snyder  tschiro@wenet.org   I am also a member of the 75th Inf.Div. Veterans Association. I can be reached at crhome@ execpc.com

Thanks for all you have done in publishing the 75th Inf.Div. NEWSLINE for us veterans.
 

                                              As Ever
                                             Richard J. Schmid
***************************************************************************

3.)  Help with unit history 291st FA Obsn Bn

Date: Sun, 04 Jul 1999 17:57:00 -0600
From: nwyllie <nwyllie@wasatchits.net>

Hi.
I'm trying to locate information on an individual who is listed in his service record as being in the 291st FA Obsn Bn from 12 Jan - 14 July 1944, and in HQ Btry 291st FA Obsn 15 Jul 1944 - 21 Oct 1945.  The best I can tell is that the 291st he was in was the one that was a component of the 75th Inf. Div.  I'm hoping you can recommend which of the many documents listed on your web page http://www.plettenberg.de/75th/75th.htm might aid me in verifying that this is indeed the unit he was assigned to.  Any other suggestions you might have that would aid me in my search would also be greatly appreciated.  The person I'm trying to get information on is Capt Franklin Hickenlooper (deceased).  He is the father of a friend of mine and she is very interested in finding out about his military career as it was not something he would talk about.

Thanks in advance,
Neil Wyllie
----------------------------------------

From:  LTERRYMCD@aol.com
Date:   Tue, 6 Jul 1999 13:32:43 EDT
Re: Help with unit history

Re:Neil Wyllie ---  Request for information on a CPT Franklin Hickenlooper.

Below is listed the Artillery units that were organic to or attached to the 75th Infantry Division during WWII. I see no 291st Artillery units listed. So, I will assume that this units was with some other Division.

>From Indiana and nice, warm weather -- have a good day.   Terry

75th Division Artillery:
897th Field Artillery Battalion (105mm Howitzer)
898th Field Artillery Battalion (105mm Howitzer)
899th Field Artillery Battalion (105mm Howitzer)
730th Field Artillery Battalion (155mm Howitzer)

Field Artillery Attachments:
187th FA Bn (155mm How) 28 Dec 44-31 Dec 44
18th FA Bn (105mm How) 30 Dec 44-7 Jan 45
460th FA Bn 11 Jan 45-12 Jan 45
254th FA Bn (155mm How) 11 Jan 45-25 Jan 45
969th FA Bn (155mm How) 30 Jan 45-5 Feb 45
283d FA Bn (105mm How) 11 Feb 45-12 Feb 45
Hq & Hq Btry, 40th FA Gp 11 Feb 45-12 Feb 45
692d FA Bn (105mm How) 11 Mar 45-25 Mar 45
691st FA Bn (105mm How) 11 Mar 45-2 Apr 45
215th FA Bn (155mm How) 12 Mar 45-18 Mar 45
25th FA Bn (105mm How) 24 Mar 45-26 Mar 45
70th FA Bn (105mm How) 24 Mar 45-26 Mar 45
65th FA Bn (105mm How) 24 Mar 45-26 Mar 45
696th FA Bn 24 Mar 45-26 Mar 45
807th FA Bn 25 Mar 45-26 Mar 45
275th Armd FA Bn 31 Mar 45-2 Apr 45
751st FA Bn (155mm How) 31 Mar 45-2 Apr 45
215th FA Bn (155mm How) 31 Mar 45-14 Apr 45
691st FA Bn (105mm How) 3 Apr 45-14 Apr 45
751st FA Bn (155mm How) 3 Apr 45-14 Apr 45
Hq & Hq Btry, 219th FA Gp 3 Apr 45-14 Apr 45
------------------------------------------------

Date: Wed, 07 Jul 1999 16:30:37 -0600
From: nwyllie <nwyllie@wasatchits.net>
Re: [Fwd: Help with unti history]

Thanks for your reply.  I have since found a matrix of the organic units for all US divisions and cannot find the 291st FA BTN anywhere!  I'm beginning to think that it might be an independent unit assigened at the Corps or Army level.  Oh, well.  The search goes on.  Again, thanks for the reply.

Neil Wyllie

***************************************************************************

4.) New info on Jonas McCall of 290th, 2nd, F

From: "Jay Puckett" <jpuckbird@email.msn.com>
To:     <rmsmith1924@webtv.net>
CC:     "Rolf G. Wilmink" <mkw-detective@t-online.de>
RE:       New Info
Date:    Tue, 6 Jul 1999 19:42:14 -0500
 

Hi there Rob,
Keeping warm??  Things are really heating up here...

If you remember I was looking for a Jonas McCall of 290th, 2nd, F.  I think I found his relatives today!
Several months ago I wrote to the NPRC and requested the last known address for him.  Today, I received the address which was the address he was at when he was discharged.  The address is in Hickory, NC.  I got ahold of directory assistance there and started dialing numbers.  The second number I called confirmed that I had something.  I spoke with Jonas' nephew and sister-in law who said that Jonas was in WWII but that they didn't know much else. They were able to confirm the address I gave them as being Jonas' at one time.

Sadly, it seems that Jonas died in the early 1960s.  They said he had a drinking problem and was a Hobo.  They said from a very young age that Jonas liked to hitch rides on trains.  He had made his way to Ogden, Utah where he was staying at a Salvation Army.  A man there asked to borrow money from Jonas and he refused, so when Jonas made his way back to the Hobo camp the man followed and killed him!

His nephew gave me the address of Jonas' son, so I am sending him a letter tommorrow.  I do want positive confirmation that this is the Jonas I am looking for - but I think it is.

Since this method worked fairly well so far, I think I will try it for Arnold Swanck.

Best,
Jay
***************************************************************************

5.) Attention researchers !!

I found the following note in the Bulgebusters, the printed newsletter of the 75th ID vets assn.:

Bulgebuster, September 98
„Copies of the 75th ID documents, After Action Reports, General Orders, Journals, Unit Reports, Crest and Insignia, S-1 Units, S-2/S-3, Periodic Reports, Colmar Campaign, Press Clippings 1945, Report of the March, History----, are avaible for the 75th ID veteran/authors. Request specific reports for specific time frames in writing to the
       National Archives,
      College Park,
      Textual Reference Branch, NNR 2,
      8601 Adelphi Road, College Park,
      MD 20740-6002.
You will recieve a form response and you can go from there. There is a nominal copying cost. If you have problems call 301-713-7250 however, the phone number changes from time to time.
Copies of Morning Reports are avaible from the
     Veterans Administration,
     National Personell Records, GSA,
     9700 Page Avenue,
     St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
There is a nominal copy cost. It is helpful if the requester is identified as the unit´s Historian and Archivist, self appointed or not„.
---------------------

Can you do me a favour ?
If you have contact with the NA, could you see if you stumble over the name city of Plettenberg, (Westphalia, Germany) my hometown ?
The  75th HQ was here from April 22nd until June 6th, and we are still searching documents. Especially interesting would be the names Major Robert M. Miller and Major Baker. Thanks in advance !

Greetings from Plettenberg, Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink
***************************************************************************

6.)  Signal corps specialist wanted

From: "jean-charles CHANTREL" <CHANTREL@village.uunet.be>
RE: help!please.
Date: Sat, 15 May 1999 21:59:15 +0200

Hello.
I 'm Jean-Charles Chantrel and I  collect uniforms, equipment, personal soldier effects of the American army of the second war mondiale.I receipt of a friend a Message  book M - 210 of  signal  corps,U.S .Army that contains 3 messages whose I  join annexes some copies.
1 .why can tell me exactly the translation in language military not what they want dires.
2.A what place(place) corresponds the date of 21 October 1944 .
3.A what unit keep this message book.
4. Above to tell me how I can find,if persons that have participated in these messages , are always  a life ,or able be an address internet where with the name and the number of number of the person,to know if it is always vivante.
I know that it is a lot asked but I would be happy to provide some thing that they have written there are 55 years.
Thank you,thank you very much for the importance that you are going to grant to this message.
Jean-Charles Chantrel
 
 

    mess1.jpg

    mess2.jpg

    mess3.jpg

***************************************************************************

7.) Patch of which unit ?

Date: Sat, 05 Jun 1999 22:20:04 +0800
From: Lee Shackelford <melee@ms16.hinet.net>
Re: 75th Inf Div newsline no.36 (4 June 1999)

Just a question, not even a 75th.  My father has his uncle's WWI jacket.  On it is a patch which looks like a cat arching it's back, could you tell me which unit?
Lee
P.S.: This unit was stationed at the Presidio in San Francisco for some time during the interwar years.
---------------------------------
++ From the moderator:++

Dear Sir,
I cannot answer your question, but I will post it in the 75th Div newsline. We have some members that are very good in military history, I am sure they will know the answer.
Greetings from Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink
------------------------------------
From: rmsmith1924@webtv.net (Robert M Smith)
Date: Mon, 7 Jun 1999 05:25:05 -0400 (EDT)
RE:  US ARMY Divisions - Second World War Era.

Greetings--- If the patch you have is a black cat with arched back in a black circle it is probably the  81st Infantry Division---"The Wildcat Division"

---- Best, Rob  Smith- formerly, 75th Division.
GREETINGS  FROM  FLORIDA - U.S.A.
http://www.inxpress.net/~rokats/div2.html

***************************************************************************

8.) Who remembers Pvt. Jesse W. Greer, Jr., Co. F, 290th Infantry?

From: "Cindy Greer" <sniffycheese@worldnet.att.net>
Date: Fri, 18 Jun 1999 15:11:32 -0400

Dear Rolf:
I thought I would try my luck again at finding anyone who might remember Pvt. Jesse W. Greer, Jr. of 3rd Platoon (Etherton's squad), Co. F, 290th Inf.  Jesse, who may have been known by his buddies as "J.W." or "Jay," was from Columbus, Georgia and served as a rifleman and BAR ammunition bearer from the latter days at Camp Breckinridge until being killed-in-action at Dorsten, Germany on 29 March 1945.  He served in the Ardennes, missed Colmar with frozen feet, and rejoined the unit in late February 1945 in Holland.

I am also attempting to find the following members of Co. F/290th:
                Lt. Robert Weber
                Pfc. Leo C. Hauser ("Doc")

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,
RUS GREER
4815 Burt Mar Drive, #10
Columbus, GA  31907
(706) 563-6475

++ Moderators note:++

It is right what Rus did: Send out your search request again. Between each newsline, we get 3-6 new members. After 10 newslines, there will be 30 - 60 more. One of the new members maybe has the answer for the question you were asking a year ago. So it does not hurt, if you post your request again. Maybe you do it in a short version and note, in which newsline the extended version was published. The interested reader can then check that past issue on our website.
++ ++
***************************************************************************

9.) New member Pfc. Arthur E Shapiro, 289th Inf Regiment

From: AShap5565@aol.com <AShap5565@aol.com>
Date: Dienstag, 15. Juni 1999 03:53

Pfc. Arthur E Shapiro(combat medic) On line from 23 December. Served in and around Vielsalm and Salm Chateau. Hospitalized in Nancy and then Marseilles.
Evacuated before the regiment reached Colmar.

2742 Bowmont Drive
Eugene, Or   97405
USA      541-484-5565

***************************************************************************

10.) Who knew Pedro A. Herrera from Seguin, Texas USA.?

From: "J&P Nieto" <peedy@pdq.net>
RE:    Information on my Grandfather
Date:  Sun, 6 Jun 1999 20:43:02 -0500

Please assist me in finding information on my Grandfather, Pedro A. Herrera from Seguin, Texas USA.  He finds it very difficult to discuss his experiences during WWII and I only know he was in the 75 division under Gen. Patton.  I think he was in the infantry.

He told me they were planning to attack a hill near the Rhine which the Germans had heavily defended.  He was injured by shrapnel a few days before the attack and sent to England.  He later found out that most of his buddies were killed.
 
I very much would appreciate any leads or direction you can offer.  I feel this to be very important, and should be passed on to other generations.  Thank you.
 
Joshua Herrera Nieto
peedy@pdq.net
15 Murex St.
Bay City, Texas 77414
-------------------------------

++From the moderator:++

Dear Sir,

I will publish your message in our free 75th Inf Div newsline and I am sure that the members can help. You are already in the subscription list. Do you have any more informations, maybe from Discharge papers ? It would help if you could find out in exact which unit (289, 290, 291 Regt., 575 Signal, FA, AT etc.) he was.

As I read from you message, your grandfather is alive. Wouldn`t it be a good idea for him to visit the reunion of the 75th Inf Div in Houston, TX, this September ? I will enclose my answer the latest issue of our newsline, which might contain interesting informations.

Greetings from Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink
++ ++
***************************************************************************

11.) Who knew SSG George Paul Trost from Williamsport, PA ?

From: "Edward_Trost" <egtro@email.msn.com>
RE:      INFO
Date:   Tue, 6 Jul 1999 14:52:30 -0400

My father was PA and a member of the 75th. His name was George Paul Trost, he went by Paul Trost.  He recieved a bronze star and 2 purple hearts while serving and a CIB. His rank was SSG. He died last May/98. He was from Williamsport, PA. His best friend was called the CHIEF and he was from Chicago. That is all I know. I noticed he was not on your list.
He never talked about the war and as a disabled veteran myself I have come to realize he may of suffered from PTSD all his life. He was very successful in life but as I look back on it he showed every symptom of PTSD.  What is sad is we never got along even to the end and I wonder how many other fathers of WWII suffered from this and were told "just get over it".......

Sorry I dont know which unit. It was in the battle of the bulge and when to Belguim then Germany.  His name and SSN are located on the SSN Death Registry under his name and state of record.

Thank you
Edward Trost
***************************************************************************

12.) Who knew PFC Macon Haynes, Company L 290th Regiment ?

From: Tam53013@aol.com
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 16:37:26 EDT
RE:   my great-uncle macon haynes
 

Hi,
I'm trying to find out more information on my great-uncle PFC Macon Haynes, who was KIA Dec. 27, 1944 in the Battle of the Bulge.

He was just a kid, like so many, and had been in combat just three days.

He served in Company L 290th Regiment 75th Infantry. His serial number was 34918446. If anyone remembers him, or what happened to him, or that company, anything, please let me know. My e-mail is tam53013@aol.com.

I'm a newspaper reporter, and I want to write about Macon.

Thank you so much.
Tamara Koehler
Oxnard, CA

P.S. I have a few of his letters -- they sound so young and patriotic, like so many of you brave soldiers in that war. Thank you for what you did.
Here's one of his letters.

Dated Nov. 14, 1944 "somewhere in England" reads:
Dear Folks,
How are you all? For me, OK. Well here I am writing again. How is all the folks? Tell them I'm OK and I'll write as quick as I can. Ha. You know an army man is a busy man. Ha.
Pa, how is your hogs and things doing? I wish I was there to help you take care of them. Maybe someday I'll be back to help you.
How is your young mule now? Do you still have your truck? I guess you think I ask a lot of questions, but I like to know all about at home if I can't be there.
You and Ma take care of your selves and go out and enjoy life. Drive the wheel off that car. Monteen said something about you building a new house. If I were you I would build me a house just like I wanted if it cost me all I had. Enjoy life while you live you know you don't have but one life here on earth, and you all are getting older everyday.
I hope I can live most all the rest of my life in the good old USA. Boy!
I can tell now what we are fighting for. If the USA isn't worth a man risking his life for he is not a true American. He doesn't even know what America is.
>From what I saw of the countries here, She is worth fighting for.
Ma, tell R.B. to be a good boy and that I'm coming home someday. Well I'll close for now. Mother, you and Dad don't worry about me.
Your son,
Macon.
---------------------------

++ From the moderator:++

Dear Mrs. Koehler,

thank you for your message.

I will publish it in the next issue of our newsline and I am sure you will get some response. You are on the subscription list.

The 75th Inf Div veterans association publishes a printed newsletter, the "Bulgebuster". In the issue May 1999, I found a photo that was made 1945 in France and shows the following members of the L-290:
Crawford, Bumpus, Knapp, Simpson, ?, Crowfoot, ?, Harper, Rinehart, Deltz.

In the newsline below, you will find the adress of the publisher of the Bulgebuster, maybe he can send you the issue or a copy of the photo. Maybe he also can tell you who has sent in the photo or who else of the members was in L-290.

Please allow me to enclose the last issue of our newsline for your information.

Greetings from Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink

***************************************************************************

13.) Who has infos on BG Charles F. Doron ?

From: "Edward J. Hlopak" <ednholly@email.msn.com>
RE:   BG Charles F. Doron
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 20:03:32 -0500

Sir,
 
I found your e-mail address while looking for information on BG Charles F. Doron.  I  understand he was a member of the 75th around 1945.  I am currently a member of the 75th Div (E) here in Houston, and was asked to search for any information and/or pictures of BG Doron.
 
I would appreciate any help you can give me.
 
Sincerely,
Edward J. Hlopak
CPT, USAR
-----------------

++ From the moderator: ++

Dear Sir,

thank you very much for your email. I will publish it in the next issue of our newsline and I already included you in our
subscription list.

It would be helpful for your search to find out first, in exact which unit he was. (By the way: Does BG means Brigade General?)

I am searching at the moment for an info that I have read some days ago regarding a search at the National Archives. I will email it to you as soon as I have found it.

Please let me enclose the latest issue of our newsline for your information.

Greetings from Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink
++ ++
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14.) Who knew PFC Charles L.(„Benny“)  Stevens ?

From: Mavsnv@aol.com
Date:  Wed, 16 Jun 1999 15:36:59 EDT
Re: [Fwd: Dady´s girl]

Dear Sir:  Thank you for adding me to the list of The Sons and Daughters of Veterans of The 75th Infantry Division to receive the newsletter.  I referred to myself as a "Daddy's Girl" .  My Father, as I said, died on May 26th 1990 but, he instilled a sense of pride and dignity regarding "The 75th" that I will always cherish.  His name was PFC Charles L. Stevens. My mom thinks one of his nicknames was "Benny".  As I said he was in the Battle of the Bulge.
Thanks again.  Daddy's Girl.
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15.) Who knew James Ralph Johnson ?

From: Max Payne <mpayne@ellijay.com>
Date: Dienstag, 22. Juni 1999 00:17
RE: Member of the 75th.

I have a friend James Ralph Johnson who was in the 75th during the WW2. He was wounded in the Belgium Breakthrew., and was flown back to England. He has a computer but dosen't know how to use it much. I would appreciate it if you could send me some information. I will certainly give it to him. He has been in constant pain ever since WW2 and his left leg is about three or four inches shorter than the other leg. He wears a built up shoe and walks pretty good but is always in pain. I am sure he would appreciate any information you can give him. Also, do you ever have a reunion here in the states?  Max Payne
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16.) Website 10th Infantry Division and WWII Army Bases

From: "Jim West" <jimwest@shelbynet.net>
Datum: Tue, 6 Jul 1999 14:13:08 -0500

I am building a new web site dedicated to the three WW2 Army bases in Indiana, and to the 10th Infantry Division.  Please visit it at http://www.shelbynet.net/~usaf71stsos
I don't believe the 75th trained at Camp Atterbury, Indiana?
 
Jim West
Camp Atterbury Museum Association
jimwest@shelbynet.net
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17.) Website on the Battle for La Roumiere

From: "Jay Puckett" <jpuckbird@email.msn.com>
RE:     75th Division
Date:  Thu, 10 Jun 1999 19:09:15 -0500

Rolf,

Thought you might be interested in viewing my simple website that I have dedicated to my late father.  I have included a brief write-up on the Battle for La Roumiere, I am sure it will need some corrections so please be patient with me.  The site can be accessed at www.members.tripod.com/hldnoqtr/75thdivisiondad.html

Thanks Rolf,
Jay
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18.) The Bulge/1944

From: rmsmith1924@webtv.net (Robert M Smith)
Date: Thu, 24 Jun 1999 02:17:31 -0400 (EDT)

This interesting account of the events of  1944 was  sent to me by Glenn Booker in Wales.
GREETINGS  FROM  FLORIDA - U.S.A.

http://www.dtic.mil/soldiers/dec94/p52.html
 

Caroline and Robert M Smith, Jean and Glenn Booker
Somewhere in Wales
15th June 1999

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19.) Hair Cutting Time in Belgium

From: "Louise F. Perkins" <bodacious1@foothill.net>
Date:    Tue, 15 Jun 1999 16:15:53 -0700
 

Rolf & Glenn:

Let me know if you receive this picture all O.K. I am still working out the bugs with this scanner.

Hair cutting time on or about 12-24-44. my buddy who is getting his haircut by me is Mauro Sassone in Belgium, cold but snow is about ready to fall.

Reg Perkins

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20.) Merchant Marine Veterans

Date: Sat, 19 Jun 1999 10:39:39 -0700
From: Harold F. Schmidt" <bud@tenforward.com>

++Moderator´s note:++
I don´t know if the message below is interesting for you, but I am posting it just in case. Tell me if I should snip messages like this one next time.
Rolf
++ ++

Fellow Veterans of America;
Is this what we all fought for back during WW II ? To permit one ( any only one ) Veterans organization to dis-allow another designated group of veterans with the proper credentials membership, in defiance of their Congressional Charter granted to them by Congress on behalf of a greatful Nation and it's citizens ? Don't allow this to continue, Contact all local VFW Posts urging them to tell their National Leaders to correct this Un-American practice on we Veterans of a Foreign War. The very men who did their job taking all our troops along with everything they needed to every port available to them. Without our Merchant Marine, there most certainly would be NO OTHER Veterans (NA DA ) (NONE)
Take a look at this site on the internet and see what its all about. I am told that the VFW hates me with a passion, (TOO BAD) Let them begin to obey the wording written into their Congressional Charter of May 28,1936.  THANK YOU ALL.
Harold "BUD" Schmidt Sr.  Sequim,Wa. A PROUD MERCHANT MARINE VETERAN of WW II  who will continue to stand up for what's right.  (WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR (ALL). EVERY LAST ONE OF US.  >>

Merchant Marine Veterans
U.S.Merchant marine Veterans of WW II have won their correct Status through Dec.31,1946 under HR-4110 Approved on Oct. 21,1998 and signed into Law on Nov.11,1998 as Public law 105-368.  Isn't it about time that you people re=read your congressional Charter granted to your organization on May 28,1936 as to exactly what it says ?
It is the instrument which tells what MUST BE in your By-Laws & Constitution, such as; That they MUST NOT BE INCONSISTENT WITH THE LAWS OF THESE UNITED STATES, NOR, OF ANY STATE. You had better re-read them over several times. It also states that  ANYONE GRANTED A CAMPAIGN-MEDAL AUTHORIZED BY THE GOVERNMENT HAS A RIGHT TO MEMBERSHIP.  ( NOT THE RIGHT TO DENY THEM) Read HR-4110 & PL 105-368 and while your at it also  PL 100-324. We ARE Designated Veterans of a Foreign War by our Government and have campaign-medals to prove it, authorized by our Government. Will some day be very embarrassing to you and your organization when you have to answer to your membership just how much you gave of their membership dues to Larry Rivers.>
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++ Moderator´s note:++
The same thing with this message: Is it of relevance for you ?
Rolf
++ ++

21.) AIR FORCE BASE SHOCKED

SUMMARY: The same civilian "leadership" that would sanction women in combat - creating a large pool of orphan dependents - has been reducing and traducing present benefits for the generation they protested against as well as the benefits for the generation that Tom Brokaw so fervently praised as, possibly, "The Greatest" of all time.
************************************************
By Captain Robert J. Nichols, USMC (Ret)

"Be orderly, be quiet and be off U. S. Government property," stated an Air Force Security Policeman, unofficially, to a military retiree two months before Air Fest, 1999 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

Plans were made to protest in a professional and rather subdued manner the creeping loss of military retiree medical care at MacDill AFB. The protest took place for about three hours at the entrance to the MacDill AFB Main Gate on Saturday, 8 May, 1999, the first day of Air Fest 1999.

Why had this type of protest not been done at MacDill AFB before? Perhaps a military wife had the answer when she was asked at the MacDill AFB Hospital why military retirees were doing nothing about being kicked out of military hospitals when they were promised medical care for life. She replied that military are used to taking orders and when the Pentagon says get out of the Army, Navy and Air Force Hospitals, the military retirees get out.

The military culture was recently shocked at MacDill AFB on a Saturday morning when a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel walked up to the security police at the main gate and told the security policeman that he was there to protest the loss of military retiree medical care. This should have been no surprise to the air base. The MacDill Base Commander was officially informed of this planned protest.

He pointed to the area where he would be standing with the signs and one of the security policemen said, "We Can't get you there."
The retired Army Officer stood at the side of the road just before the entrance to the Mac Dill AFB Main Gate. He had two signs on a stand that read as follows:
Sign No. 1: "Is MacDill AFB Hospital Off Limits To Military Retirees?"
Sign No. 2: Was a large military recruiting poster,showing Uncle Sam saying in added two inch letters, "I LIED ABOUT MILITARY MEDICAL CARE."

There was overwhelming support for the MacDill Six Retired Army Officer, as the cars passed by him. Here are some of the surprising reactions:

a. Several drivers came through the gate twice, to see the signs. One military retired NCO made a U-Turn at the gate, stopped, rolled down the window, shook hands with the Army Officer and said, "Thanks for what you're doing for us."

b.      Those that showed great interest in the protest signs were grade school, high school and college age youths.

c.      One Navy Officer, in uniform, with ribbons and all, rendered a sharp salute to the protesting retired Army Officer, after reading the signs.

d.      There were many salutes and "Thumbs Up" from the passers by. One military retiree took out his ID Card and waived it at the protesting officer in a show of support. The protesting Army Officer was videotaped by a passer by and one person walked up and spent about 20 minutes, talking about the protest.
During that nearly three hours of protesting, thousands of cars passed through the main gate, going to the Air Fest. One driver was talking on his cellular phone and appeared to be reading the signs to someone, over the phone.
A "Blue Angel" staff car passed the retired Army Officer. No reaction was seen from the driver. The Navy Blue Angels performed at the air Fest.
What about Air Fest 2000? Retirees and one spouse have already volunteered to join the MacDill Six at next year's Air Fest.
***************************************************************************

22.) United States Army Order of Battle - ETO - WWII

From: LTERRYMCD@aol.com
Date:  Sat, 19 Jun 1999 14:46:36 EDT

Rolf, at this site
(http://www2.army.mil/cmh-pg/documents/eto-ob/etoob-toc.htm) (Order of Battle for United States Army - World War II - ETO),  I found the below listed information. Perhaps, you are aware already of this site; especially the information? There is much more information at this web site, to include the location of the Division Command Post during different periods; attached and detached units, and on and on....

Thank You -- Thank You Very Much.  Terry

************
75th INFANTRY DIVISION:    The division insignia consists of a red, white, and blue field with a blue "7" and a red "5" superimposed. Thin insignia has no heraldic significance.

COMMAND AND STAFF

 Commanding General:
20 Oct 44 Maj. Gen. Willard S. Paul;
22 Nov 44 Maj. Gen. Gay B. Prickett ;
24 Jan 45 Maj. Gen. Ray E. Porter

Assistant Division Commander:    20 Oct 44 Brig. Gen. Gerald St. C. Mickle

Artillery Commander:  20 Oct 44 Brig. Gen. Foster J. Tate;  22 Nov 44 Brig.
Gen. Albert C. Stanford;    24 Jan 45 Col. Charles L. Dasher, Jr.;   25 Mar
45 Brig. Gen. Charles L. Dasher, Jr.

Chief of Staff:  20 Oct 44 Col. Herbert B. Powell;   19 Feb 45 Col. Earl M.
Miner

Assistant Chief of Staff G-1:        20 Oct 44 Lt. Col. William J. Cashin
Assistant Chief of Staff G-2:        20 Oct 44 Lt. Col. George C. Dewey
Assistant Chief of Staff G-3:        20 Oct 44 Lt. Col. Robert C. Dean
Assistant Chief of Staff G-4:        20 Oct 44 Lt. Col. Edward E. Hood;
22 Nov 44 Maj. John W. Dean, Jr.; 17 Mar 45 Lt. Col. John W. Dean, Jr.
Assistant Chief of Staff G-5:        23 Dec 44 Maj. Hugh O. Davis;  16 Apr 45
Lt. Col. Hugh O. Davis
Adjutant General:    20 Oct 44 Maj/LtCol Robert T. Engle
Commanding Officer, 289th Infantry:   20 Oct 44 Col. Douglas B. Smith
Commanding Officer, 290th Infantry:   20 Oct 44 Col. Carl F. Duffner
Commanding Officer, 291st Infantry:   20 Oct 44 Col. Harry S. Robertson

STATISTICS

 Chronology

Activated 15 April 1943
Arrived ETO 20 October 1944
Arrived Continent (D+190) 13 December 1944
Entered Combat--First Elements 24 December 1944
Entered Combat--Entire Division 25 December 1944
Days in Combat 94

 Casualties (Tentative)

Killed 888
Wounded 2,970
Missing 96
Captured --
Battle Casualties 3,954
Non-Battle Casualties 4,062
Total Casualties 8,016
Percent of T/O Strength 56.9

Campaigns:   Rhineland;  Ardennes;  Central Europe

 Individual Awards

Distinguished Service Cross 3
Legion of Merit 3
Silver Star 114
Soldiers Medal 21
Bronze Star 1,287
Air Medal 29

Prisoners of War Taken 20,630

++Moderator´s note: ++
Some of the information can also be found on our website (www.plettenberg.de/75th)

***************************************************************************

23.) Medal of Honor recipients

From:  Eric Heijink <e.heijink@student.utwente.nl>
Date: Mon, 7 Jun 1999 13:27:11 -0500

Hi Rolf,

Here are the citations of three medal of honor recipients.
I found a textfile on my computer containing the citations of approximatly 150 medal of honor recipients, received by Americans in the ETO. I cannot remember where I got it from, I guess I found it on the internet somewhere.
There were no men from the 75th Infantry Division among these.However, I do not know if this is a complete list or not.

Best wishes,
Eric Heijink

ARTHUR O. BEYER,
Rank and organization: Corporal, U.S. Army, Company C, 603d Tank Destroyer Battalion.
Place and date: Near Arloncourt, Belgium, 15 January 1945.
Entered service at: St. Ansgar, lowa. Born: 20 May 1909, Rock Township, Mitchell County, lowa. G.O. No.: 73, 30 August 1945.

Citation:
He displayed conspicuous gallantry in action. His platoon, in which he was a tank-destroyer gunner, was held up by antitank, machinegun, and rifle fire from enemy troops dug in along a ridge about 200 yards to the front. Noting a machinegun position in this defense line, he fired upon it with his 76-mm. gun killing 1 man and silencing the weapon. He dismounted from his vehicle and, under direct enemy observation, crossed open ground to capture the 2 remaining members of the crew. Another machinegun, about 250 yards to the left, continued to fire on him.
Through withering fire, he advanced on the position. Throwing a grenade into the emplacement, he killed 1 crewmember and again captured the 2 survivors. He was subjected to concentrated small-arms fire but, with great bravery, he worked his way a quarter mile along the ridge, attacking hostile soldiers in their foxholes with his carbine and grenades. When he had completed his self-imposed mission against powerful German forces, he had destroyed 2 machinegun positions, killed 8 of the enemy and captured 18 prisoners, including 2 bazooka teams. Cpl. Beyer's intrepid action and unflinching determination to close with and destroy the enemy eliminated the German defense line and enabled his task force to gain its objective.

MELVIN E. BIDDLE,
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company B, 517th Parachute Infantry Regiment.
Place and date: Near Soy, Belgium, 23-24 December 1944.
Entered service at: Anderson, Ind. Birth: Daleville, Ind. G.O. No.. 95, 30 October 1945.

Citation:
He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy near Soy, Belgium, on 23 and 24 December 1944. Serving as lead scout during an attack to relieve the enemy-encircled town of Hotton, he aggressively penetrated a densely wooded area, advanced 400 yards until he came within range of intense enemy rifle fire, and within 20 yards of enemy positions killed 3 snipers with unerring marksmanship. Courageously continuing his advance an additional 200 yards, he discovered a hostile machinegun position and dispatched its 2 occupants. He then located the approximate position of a well-concealed enemy machinegun nest, and crawling forward threw hand grenades which killed two Germans and fatally wounded a third.
After signaling his company to advance, he entered a determined line of enemy defense, coolly and deliberately shifted his position, and shot 3 more enemy soldiers. Undaunted by enemy fire, he crawled within 20 yards of a machinegun nest, tossed his last hand grenade into the position, and after the explosion charged the emplacement firing his rifle. When night fell, he scouted enemy positions alone for several hours and returned with valuable information which enabled our attacking infantry and armor to knock out 2 enemy tanks. At daybreak he again led the advance and, when flanking elements were pinned down by enemy fire, without hesitation made his way toward a hostile machinegun position and from a distance of 50 yards killed the crew and 2 supporting riflemen. The remainder of the enemy, finding themselves without automatic weapon support, fled panic stricken. Pfc. Biddle's intrepid courage and superb daring during his 20-hour action enabled his battalion to break the enemy grasp on Hotton with a minimum of casualties.

PAUL L. BOLDEN,
Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company 1, 120th Infantry, 30th Infantry Division.
Place and date: Petit-Coo, Belgium, 23 December 1944.
Entered service at: Madison, Ala. Birth: Hobbes Island, lowa. G.O. No.: 73, 30 August 1945-.

Citation:
He voluntarily attacked a formidable enemy strong point in Petit-Coo, Belgium, on 23 December, 1944, when his company was pinned down by extremely heavy automatic and small-arms fire coming from a house 200 yards to the front. Mortar and tank artillery shells pounded the unit, when S/Sgt. Bolden and a comrade, on their own initiative, moved forward into a hail of bullets to eliminate the ever-increasing fire from the German position. Crawling ahead to close with what they knew was a powerfully armed, vastly superior force, the pair reached the house and took up assault positions, S/Sgt. Bolden under a window, his comrade across the street where he could deliver covering fire. In rapid succession, S/Sgt. Bolden hurled a fragmentation grenade and a white phosphorous grenade into the building; and then, fully realizing that he faced tremendous odds, rushed to the door, threw it open and fired into 35 SS troopers who were trying to reorganize themselves after the havoc wrought by the grenades. Twenty Germans died under fire of his submachinegun before he was struck in the shoulder, chest, and stomach by part of a burst which killed his comrade across the street. He withdrew from the house, waiting for the surviving Germans to come out and surrender. When none appeared in the doorway, he summoned his ebbing strength, overcame the extreme pain he suffered and boldly walked back into the house, firing as he went. He had killed the remaining 15 enemy soldiers when his ammunition ran out.
S/Sgt. Bolden's heroic advance against great odds, his fearless assault, and his magnificent display of courage in reentering the building where he had been severely wounded cleared the path for his company and insured the success of its mission.

***************************************************************************
And in the next newsline...............
                                       ........your feedback to this newsline !!!!

Greetings from Germany
Rolf G. Wilmink
75th Inf Div WWII Veterans Association Unofficial homepage
www.mknet.de/75th
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**************************************************************************
Who are you? What's your specialty and/or interest? Let us know about your unit... What would you like to see on the list? Post it. Let us know...  Do you have something to contribute? We'd like to hear it...
We want to know EVERYTHING and ANYTHING about the 75th Division and Plettenberg, Germany, the last command post of the HQ in 1945. ... Remember: who, what, where, when, how & why... we want ALL the details...
(If there are developments in the today´s 75th Division (Exercise), that are public and could be interesting for the veterans of the Division, please e-mail the info also to us. )
Do you have a question? Post it... A little free time? Help a member...
With the INCREDIBLE brain power on this list, someone should have the answer ;-)

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give something back... Don't just take... Your input/knowledge is valued...
**************************************************************************
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If you want to become a member of the 75th Div Veterans Association, please contact the president of the Association:
    Geoffrey Parker (75th Recon)
    1104 Tanner Rd.
    Plant City, FL 33756
    USA
    Phone: 1-813-752-6988

..The Simple Rules of the 75th Div List...
The 75th Div List Owners may remove a list member for violation of the following rules. The list owner may also reject any posts that are/contain:
1) Info Unrelated to 75th Division in WWII and today, or WWII in the ETO.
2) Flames or Negative posts (if you must flame do it in private)...
3) E-Signatures that are considered excessive...
4) Advertisements not DIRECTLY related to the list topics...
5) Attached Files... (sent them, but we have to see how to include them)
6) Oversized Posts... (May be edited to save room - <snip>)
7) Spamming list members will result in removal from list.
8) Thou shalt not lurk ;-)
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The information transmitted on this list may not be reproduced, reposted or forwarded to any non-list member without expressed written permission of the List Owner. (Everyone can be a member, and if we have informations about each recipient, we can bring members with special interests together).
(The 75th Div newsletter „Bulgebusters„, secretary Jim Warmouth, hereby has the permission to print everything out of our newsletter, as long as we as the source are mentioned with e-mail and internet-adress)
Violation of U.S. copyright law is a criminal and civil offense...
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The 75th Division list is moderated by Rolf G. Wilmink, Plettenberg, Germany.
The List Owner will make EVERY effort to protect subscribers from spam...
The membership list is NOT available for loan, sale or rent. It is private. All Rights Reserved...
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end of transmission