November 2006
NEWSLETTER
of the
Seventh Bombardment Group (H)
Historical Foundation
|
FROM PRESIDENT HOVEY REED |
The
reunion for ’06 was held in Abilene, Texas in the first part of June. We were in the same hotel, with similar accommodations
that we had four years ago. The attendance was small, only about sixty or so. The base made us welcome and a guide
was assigned to our group. Major Stockings (Sox) did us well. On Friday we visited the base, got to enter the cockpit
of a B-1 and visited many of the places to see on the base. At lunch we all ate together in the officer’s club
with a number of members of the base. One thing unusual was that during lunch I gave a brief presentation, thanking
the base for their hospitality, and a few things about the history of the 7th Bomb Group. After that, the microphone
was left open and many of the members got up and talked about something that was important to them, and their remembrances
of WWII. Friday night we had dinner in the Hotel.
Saturday afternoon we had a business meeting, during which time, Rudy Karpstein submitted his resignation as the
secretary/treasure of the organization. Jim Augustus was nominated and elected to the post. We all must be very
grateful to Rudy. He, as much as anyone in the organization, has held us all together. He is going to be missed
in that capacity. Don’t go away Rudy; we want to continue to see you at future meetings. I was given a vote of
confidence, for which I am very proud. In another order of business, it was decided that no date would be set for
the dissolution of the organization. We would continue to maintain the newsletter and the web sight as long as
possible. We’re going to live forever. It was decided that the next reunion would be held in Tucson in September
2008. Charlie Niblett is to be the host and he has promised us a grand time.
Saturday night we had a banquet at the hotel. A number of base personnel showed up, both officers and airmen. We
had a delightful dinner and Colonel Harencak, the commander of the 7th Bomb Wing, gave a talk to those present.
A good meeting with lots of talk and reveling.
Sunday, we began to take our leave of Abilene with fond farewells, and hopes of another meeting.
Hovey
|
FROM VICE-PRESIDENT CHARLIE NIBLETT |
What a great reunion we had at Dyess AFB, Texas, at the beginning of June. I'm sorry many had to miss
it, but we had a fine representation of 7th Bombers, as you will read elsewhere in this Newsletter. We especially
enjoyed and appreciated our B-1B sons and daughters, who did all they could to make our visit enjoyable. For those
who didn't know, Wing Commander Colonel Gary Harencak had assigned a 9th Squadron pilot, Lt. Col. Tim Stocking
(call sign - Sox), to "honcho" our entire reunion and see that no glitches occurred. Headquarters 12th
Air Force, here at Tucson, had already given permission for us to be admitted to the base with only assurances
that we were ex-7th Bombers. Don't try that at any other U.S. Air Force base if you don't have a military ID!
We were met by Sox, and after a visit to their Air Museum and exhibit building, we were welcomed at a delicious
luncheon at the Club by a large delegation of active duty officers and enlisted persons who joined us at our tables.
They wanted to hear our "war stories", and there was no shortage in our crowd. I would rather have heard
theirs about Iraq, Afghanistan, Diego Garcia, and Guam. After lunch Sox aimed us at a tour of the beautiful, well
equipped base before we ended up at the flight line. There all questions were answered; many ventured up into the
cockpit, where a highly qualified, beautiful, young lady pilot from the 9th Squadron spent the hot afternoon
explaining the mysteries of this present day bomber which is so important to the striking power of the United States.
On Saturday night we learned what an entertaining and knowledgeable man commands the Wing when he spoke to us about
his pride in the Wing and its accomplishments. We can be confident in his leadership role in the Air Force as he
moves upward in the rank and position which is coming to him shortly. He now has a copy of our History to remind
him of the appreciation of the Foundation.
The Saturday morning Membership Meeting was very important to the future of our Foundation. It was unanimously
agreed that the Foundation will continue on into the future. It was suggested that this can best be accomplished
by enlisting our sons, daughters, and active duty personnel who, considering all of our past successes, and those
which followed us, have a special pride in being assigned to the oldest heavy bomb unit in the Air Force.
Many of you have tuned into the Foundation web site maintained by Jim and Sue Augustus. They have done a marvelous
job of maintaining that and were not strangers to most people. After serving so many years as an exemplary
Secretary/Treasurer, Rudy deserved some relief, so Jim was elected to replace him and was already working during
the reunion. Hovey and I were reelected as President and Vice-President, and the membership agreed to have the
next reunion on the 90th Anniversary of the activation, in France, of our original World War One ancestor,
the 1st Army Observation Group. This will fall on 6 September 2008, and will be held here in Tucson, Arizona.
I hope you read the offer in the last Newsletter from Norma and me to sponsor the reunion, and it will come at
the time the weather is turning ideal.
We must keep in mind two things: first, to plan on attending the next reunion, and second, to help find new members
from among our family members. I don't believe we should go outside the 7th Bomb family. Jim has already sent membership
applications to our successors at Dyess; the Wing Commander, Col Harencak immediately said he wanted to be a member,
which is a good start.
I was privileged to see Col Harencak in July in Tucson when he flew a B-1B to witness the change of command of
12th Air Force from Lt. General Schmidt (who, before an accident, was to speak to us) to Lt. Gen. Norman Seip.
That B-1B really stood out on the Davis-Monthan ramp among a collection of F-16s flown in by fighter wing commanders.
I questioned why he didn't fly a 9th Squadron aircraft, and he said he had them all deployed to Afghanistan. They
really are keeping up the 7th Bomb Group tradition of being where the fighting is happening.
While I have your attention, I need some help. The Chief Historian of 12th Air Force/USSOUTHAF has written a history
of AZON bombing which he presented at the Pentagon, but he has never spoken with anyone who has operational experience.
He really needs some "hands on" experience to flesh out his briefing, and it's an opportunity for a 493d
member to be sure the straight story gets to the top. Drop me a note at 5837 N. Paseo Ventoso, Tucson, AZ, 85750,
or an e-mail at ctillman@att.net ,and I will put you in touch with him.
Norma and I are beginning to make lists of things to do and places to see when you come to Tucson in September
2008, for the 90th Anniversary of activation of our Group, when our ancestors proceeded to win those three Battle
Maltese Crosses which we so proudly display on our insignia. We want to place you within walking distance of a
large mall, so bring lots of money. The Pima Air and Space Museum has assured me we will be able to view their
B-36 (named City of Fort Worth) completely rebuilt. We already have the B-17, B-18, B-23, B-24, B-25, B-26 and
B-29, plus several versions in over 250 assets, to keep you entertained. So make your plans to visit Tucson, which
dates back to the era of the Pyramids, and when Hannibal rode elephants across the Alps (don't expect more than
the one in our zoo). I'll keep you informed about what is going to entertain you in Tucson. In the meantime, sign
up your children (maybe even your close friend) as members. Let's keep this going.
Charlie
|
FROM SEC/TREAS JIM AUGUSTUS - son/493rd BS |
Well,
the Reunion in Abilene was a terrific success. Sue and I both had a wonderful time. And for those of you who weren’t
able to make it, you see that you now have a new Secretary/Treasurer. Rudy told me he was ready to be relieved!
I was nominated for the job and it was an honor to be elected. I only hope I can manage to continue to do the job
as well as Rudy. That will be a big mountain to climb. But bear with me and hopefully I won’t make too many mistakes
before I get the hang of it! You’ll see that there’s a bit of a new face to the Newsletter but the information
will be the same and I hope just as enjoyable for all of you to read.Most of you know, but for those who don’t,
I also do the Web Site for the 7thBG Historical Foundation. It has simply been a labor of love. I try to make updates
to the Web Site as often as I can . And I’d like to make a request to all of our members…. I need photos for the
web site! I have posted all the crew photos that I have but I know there were hundreds more crews and the ones
on the Web Site are just a drop in the bucket. If you know of 7thBG members whose crew is not on the Web Site,
please contact them and see if they can come up with a crew photo. I could also use more nose art photos and just
general photo collections to put on the Place & Faces page of the Web Site. If you don’t have a scanner, you
can mail them to me or save them on a disc and mail the disc to me. I would prefer large collections to be placed
on a CD and mailed to me. I will return the CD to you once I’ve stored them on my hard drive.I hope you enjoy my
first issue of the 7th BG Newsletter.Fair winds and following seas to all,
Jim
Mail your photos or CDs/discs to:
7thBGHF
P.O. Box 177
Cushman, AR 72526-0177
|
MANNY PALACIOS/9TH BS - A FRIEND REMEMBERED |
Manuel joined the 7th Bomb Group at Hamilton Field in the Fall of 1939. He came up from Southern California
with a couple of other fellows, including Don Holloway. Before long he picked up the service nickname of Pinocchio,
shortened to Pinoch. He worked in the motor pool waiting for a school assignment. He eventually went to sheet metal
school. He met and married a girl from Salt Lake. He stayed overseas with us until they begin to allow for replacements
late in 1944. He came back to the states and was stationed in Las Vegas until he could be discharged. He used his
service training successfully and became a sheet metal man with a construction company for his working life. He
was a fine man, well liked and respected by the men in the organization. He had a great love for his family, and
a wife that preceded him in death.He was a great guy, he will be missed.
Hovey Reed, Palacios’ friend.
|
PROUD OF HER DAD - MARK FRANCIS DAVIS/11TH BS |
Dear Gentlemen:
Our father, Mark Francis Davis, a 7th Bombardment Group Veteran, age 87 passed away on June 5, 2006 peacefully
in his home with his wife and entire family around him. Dad had been battling lung cancer for the past year. We
are all very proud of dad’s service to our country. He was a retired Technical Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army
Air Corps/Air Force. Serving twenty plus years in the Air Force, including service in WWII. At dad’s request, he
was buried at Tahoma National Cemetery with complete military honors. Dad spent 65 years with his loving wife Margery
(Grace) and was a wonderful, dedicated father to his two sons, Mark and Steven and myself, his daughter Kathy.
Dad would also want me to mention he had 5 granddaughters and 2 great grandsons!
Sincerely,Kathy J. MacMillan
P.S. If you could continue sending your newsletter to our mother it would be appreciated as she always enjoyed
reading it as well. Thanks!
|
PAST PRESIDENT PASSES AWAY |
Carl
H. Fritsche, age 86, of Westerville, OH passed away Monday, August 21, 2006 at St. Ann’s Hospital. Graduate of
Ohio State University, Member of Hump Pilot’s Assn., CBI Group, Westerville Promenaders, Treasurer and Board of
Directors of Del-Co Water for 18 years. 14 years of service with Parks and Recreation; flew B-24 bomber in the
492nd Bomb Squadron, 7th BG, 10thAF in WWII. Carl flew on 59 missions. Spent 4 years in the CBI Theater and won
many medals: DFC, Air Medal with 2 Oak Leaf clusters, the Chinese Medal for flying with the Flying Tigers. He also
won the AP Medal, the Victory Medal and American Theater Medal. Long time member of Central College Presbyterian
Church….Survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Beulah…...in lieu of flowers, friends may contribute in his memory
to the National Kidney Foundation of Ohio, 1373 Grandview Ave. Ste 200, Columbus, OH 43212.
Editor’s Note: Carl was past President of the Foundation and organized a wonderful reunion in Hampton Roads, VA
in the summer of 2002….this was the first reunion Sue and I attended.
|
Owen Baggett, 85: Friend of Many, Good Drummer, One Heck of a WWII Tale From the Abilene Reporter-News dated 29 Jul 2006 |
Owen
Baggett, 85, will perhaps be known throughout history for one of the most unusual tales of World War II. But those
who knew him best remember not just his war heroism but a kind man, always wearing a smile, whose winning personality
could get more out of a stranger in five minutes than some could get in a lifetime. “He never met a stranger,”
said his daughter, Diana Farrar, 52, of San Antonio.
Baggett, a 1941 graduate of Hardin-Simmons University and a former Abilenian, died Thursday in New Braunfels. Born
in Graham in 1920, Baggett’s family moved to Abilene, where he lived for most of his early life. While at HSU,
he majored in music. He was drum major at Abilene High School and at HSU. “He was a lousy trumpet player, but a
wonderful drum major,” Farrar said. HSU classmate and longtime friend Dottie Parker remembered him as an easy-going,
true friend. The two corresponded, even within weeks of Baggett's death.
An improbable battle in the sky during World War II that ended with four surreptitious shots of Baggett's .45 automatic
pistol brought him renown. Baggett was in the 10th Air Force in India. On March 31, 1943, Baggett copiloted a B-24
with 1st Lt. Lloyd Jenson. They were dispatched to destroy a railroad bridge. Fighter planes attacked the B-24s
before they reached their target. Jenson and Baggett's plane was struck. Oxygen bottles shattered, and a fire broke
out in the rear of the bomber. Jensen ordered the crew to jump, and Baggett signaled the gunners it was time to
go. His chute opened and he saw four more canopies blossom before the bomber erupted in a ball of flame.
Japanese pilots began strafing, killing some crewmen and grazing Baggett in the arm. The pilot that struck the
blow circled, perhaps to get a better look, perhaps to finish the job. As he parachuted to the ground, Baggett
played dead. The enemy pilot opened his canopy, approaching within feet, his plane's nose up and on the verge of
stalling out. Baggett raised the .45 automatic pistol concealed against his leg and fired four shots. The Zero
stalled, spun toward the earth. Baggett learned later that the enemy pilot was found dead, with a single bullet
through his head.
After Baggett hit the ground, strafing fire continued, but he escaped, hiding behind a tree. Others on the plane
landed nearby, but the ordeal was not over. Baggett and Jensen were captured, flown out of Burma on an enemy bomber,
and imprisoned near Singapore. Baggett's captivity lasted more than two years. His weight dropped, from 180 to
90 pounds. While he languished, he puzzled over the midair duel, trying to calculate its possibility.
Farrar said her father never talked much about the incident, Farrar said. ''I didn't even know about it until accounts
started being published about it,'' she said. But Owen Baggett, a person of great forgiveness who rose to the rank
of colonel in the Air Force, apparently extended his forgiveness even to his captors.
Close to the opening of the Vietnam War, he worked as a defense contractor. He traveled to Japan then for his job,
and got his shoes shined one day. He looked up and recognized the shoe shine man was one of the guards in the prisoner
of war camp where he once languished - one who used to beat him. When the man finished, Farrar said, her father
reportedly smiled, tipped the man, and walked away. ''That was the kind of person he was,'' she said. ''That one
story tells you everything you need to know.''
The family will host a memorial service 10 a.m. Tuesday at Doeppenschmidt Funeral Home in Canyon Lake. Burial will
be at 9:15 a.m. Wednesday at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio.
|
LOOKING FOR INFO ON FATHER - 9THBS |
Dear Mr. Augustus, My name is Robert Burke, and I am the eldest son of Leo E. Burke who was stationed with
the 7th Bombardment Group, 9th Bombardment Squadron in India around the early part of 1942 and through part of
1944.I believe my father’s career in cryptography began when he was the only available ‘typist’ after the death
of the original cryptographer whom he replaced. So for that reason I believe he may have been reassigned
from the 9th Bombardment Squadron to ‘Headquarters’. Leo died early in 2000 at the age of 87 in Fairfield, California.
He retired from the Air Force at Travis AFB in 1966. If you know of anyone who knew Leo, or remembers Leo,
I would be delighted to hear from them regarding their memories of my father. I hope to receive or make scanned
copies our family has of Leo with the 7th Bombardment Group and submit them to you for posting to your website
in the near future.
Sincerely,Robert V. Burke
|
LOOKING FOR INFO ON UNCLE - 493BS |
My
name is David Wilson, nephew of Gerald R. Wilson of the 493rd BS. I'm trying to find out any information about
him for my father. My uncle passed away 30 years ago and my father would like to know as much as he could about
my uncle and the 493rd. Any information would be greatly appreciated. I have attached his army photo.
Sincerely,David Wilson SHRP@aol.com
Gerald R. Wilson
|
LOOKING FOR CREWMEMBERS - 493BS |
How do I find out if any of my crew are still around? Our pilot was Wesley Love (6/11/1944– 11/21/1944) 493BS.
My Name is Maurice W. Spiegel rspie5477@adelphia.net
Top Row L-R: Fred Hughes (KIA); Boyd: copilot; Wesley Love: pilot; Trumbo: Bomb.; John West: eng.Bottom Row L-R:
Scharf: gunner; Gittens: gunner; Clayton: gunner; Maurice W. Spiegel: radio; Wajda: gunner.
|
COMPLETING GENEALOGY - 492BS |
My father was Ralph F. Henning who served in the China Burma India theatre as a radio operator/aerial gunner
from about 1943 to 1945. He was assigned to the 10th Air Force, 7th Bombardment Group (H), 492nd Squadron.
I couldn't find any pictures of him in the photo section of the 10th Air Force web page and I couldn't find out
the name of the B-24 plane he flew on. From June, 1944 to December, 1944 he flew 43 combat missions and earned
the Air Medal, June 12th, 1944 and the Distinguished Flying Cross, September, 1944. Most of his military
records stored in St. Louis were destroyed in a fire and I wasn't able to recover much information except
his military assignment and awards My father died in 1992. I'm trying to complete a genealogy and would appreciate
it if you knew of anyone who would have known him and who would be able to share any pictures or information
with me about him during his time of military service in CBI? I understand that you may receive many requests like
mine and that you may not be able to help me, but I appreciate what you've done with the web page to preserve the
history of the 10th Air Force. As an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam era, I've been invited to participate in
the dedication of the Air Force Memorial in Washington D.C. this October and will be thinking of all of you who
served our country in perilous times. I’ll understand if you’re not able to help me and wish you the very best.
Tom HenningTHZephyr41@aol.com
Editor’s Note: I searched everything I had and drew a blank. I told Tom I’d place his email in the Newsletter.
Good luck, Tom!
|
AND NOW THE REST OF THE STORY - 492BS |
Jim,I'm using this address for you because this isn't intended as an entry in the guestbook, just a personal
note. My name is Dave Graham, and I'm the son of the late Wilfred Graham, 492nd. Dad passed away in Oct. 1999.He
left behind very few accounts of his days in CBI, mostly humorous stories meant to deflect serious discussion.
Many of the sons and daughters of WW II vets have probably experienced the same reticence. As a matter of fact,
most of the stories that I relate about my tours in Viet Nam are of the same variety.....nothing so heavy that
they'll choke me up.Anyway, your website is a blessing for those of us with a desire to know more about our Dads
(or Granddads). I've been in contact with the last surviving crew member of Dad's crew, Lee Ashby, who lives in
Ohio. He shared several stories of the more harrowing kind with me, and I was glad to be able to pass these on
to my brother and sister. One in particular sticks out in my mind......we had always heard the beginnings of the
tale of the bomb that got hung up in the bomb bay, and the desperate efforts to free it, but until I talked to
Lee I never knew the ending to the story. My brother had always thought that this event led to the awarding of
one of Dad's medals which I have (Air Medal, DFC), but Lee assured me that, contrary to receiving a medal, they
should have been court martialed, because it was strictly forbidden ( for obvious reasons) to return to base with
unreleased ordnance. I guess they were expected to ditch in the ocean. According to Lee, the bomb came loose on
landing, and skidded down the runway alongside the plane. Only the alert action of a ground crew member in a jeep,
who defused the bomb when it stopped, kept a disaster from happening. I have a crew photo that I have sent a copy
of to Lee, hoping that he could identify members for you, but he doesn't necessarily have the energy to follow
through, so I'm going to forward the photo to you if you can tell me where to go to "scan" it and give
the proper electronic address to do so. I'm technology-challenged, as they say, and e-mail is the sum total of
my ability. The captain of the crew was named "Smitty", and I presume that he must have been a "William",
because Lee tells me that my Dad's nickname (Sam) was given to him because there were so many "Bills"
aboard. Another was an enlisted man named William "Moose" Tutor. One member of the crew that I didn't
find on your group roster was Murray Taylor, know as "Old Crow Bait", from Texas. Well, this turned out
to be more long-winded than I intended, but I wanted you to know how much I appreciate your organization and its
hard work. It meant a lot to Dad too. He attended several reunions, including Sacramento and the one before it
(Dayton?) along with his buddy Moose, and a great time was had by all.
Best of luck, Jim, and as you always sign off, Fair winds.
Dave GrahamSouth Portland, Maine
dornoch@maine.rr.com
|
LOOKING FOR INFO ON B-24A SER # 40-2370 |
Would like to hear from any crew members, ground crew or anyone with knowledge of B-24A Number 70 (40-2370)
also known as Arabian Knight. Aircraft said to have been assigned to the 7th Bombardment Group in late 1941 or
early 1942. One of nine B-24A transports built in June 1941 with no bomb racks. So far, have been unable to locate
Missing Air Crew Report or Aircraft Accident Report to determine final fate.Enclosed is my contribution of $20.00.
Thank you
Arvon Staats
4325 NW 60 Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
(405) 942-7199
|
DOING RESEARCH - HARRY MARKEY FOR H.S. |
I am doing research on all the World War II veterans who attended my high school in Beaverdam, VA. Harry Markey was one of the attendees and I believe the only KIA from our school. I have attempted to contact Nancy Gleason (Harry Markey's daughter) but the email address on the 7th BG web site does not work. Have talked to Harry Markey's brother here in VA and he does not have any info on Nancy either. If you have any contact information for Nancy I would appreciate your forwarding my email to her. She can respond via email or call me.
David W. Hartley
3421 Fitchetts Lane
Glen Allen, VA 23060-7209
804-337-3457
dwh1938@aol.com
Editor's Note: Emailed David and indicated that I didn't have a current email address for Nancy. Suggested he sign the Guest Book and that I'd put his email in the Newsletter.
|
LOOKING FOR SERIAL NUMBERS/NAMES |
I am trying to make the aircraft data list on the web site as complete as possible. My goal is to attempt to
list by serial number all the B-17s and B-24s that were assigned to the 7thBG. I have many serial numbers now without
any nose art names and conversely I have many nose art names without serial numbers.
If you have serial numbers of aircraft that were assigned to the 7thBG, please send them to me and include the
nose art name if you know it. I’m aware that some aircraft didn’t have any nose art so the serial number alone
would complete that listing. Search through your logs, diaries and personnel records to see if you can find any
serial numbers/nose art names listed. Just send whatever you find in an email. The current data list is in work
and can be found at: http://www.7thbg.org/NoseArt.htmThanks!
Jim Augustus/Web Site Administrator
7thBG Sec/Treas
7thbgadmin@cei.net or saug@cei.net
|
FROM ENGLAND - IT’S A SMALL WORLD! |
Hello From England!
I have just discovered some 7th BG paperwork here in Harleston, Norfolk, England, an old house loft was cleared
out & we found paperwork belonging to S/Sgt Tyman Wells Jr. It appears he was shot down on 5 April '44
& was a Jap POW. He later moved to England after the war & married an English girl Marjorie Yale
who was in the RAF. It's very unusual as we here in the heart of East Anglia were a base for the 8th Air Force,
so finding 10th AF stuff is very unusual.I have 3 pics of Tyman & Marj standing by the grave of the rest of
the crew were lost in the B-24 crash.
Could you furnish me with any more information on the crew or airplane etc. ?
The other crew members were: Capt James W Dorst, 1st Lt James L Alexander III, 1st Lt Charles K Pittman, Lt Warren R.
Kauffman, T/Sgt Donald E Ball, T/Sgt James M Faulkner, S/Sgt Melville E Schultz, Sgt Edward J Harris.
Warmest Regards From England,
Simon Dunham
Reeve Cottage, Hall Lane, Long Stratton, Norwich. Norfolk NR15 2RP. ENGLAND
Tel +441058 536559
Editor’s Response:Simon, Wow!......10thAF stuff in England.......small world! Yes I have a little
information on that crew. The squadron was 9thBS; aircraft serial no. was 42-73435.I have the crew listed
as follows: Kauffman - Pilot, Pittman - CP, Alexander - N, Gambale - B, Faulkner - FE, Ball - RO, Harris - G, McKerman
- G, Wells - G, Schultz - G, Dorst - ObserverHere's the jist of the mission:14 B-24s flew a mission against
the Moulmein-Bangkok Railway road. One ship aborted; group claimed destruction of 53 rail cars; eight bridges
and numerous other targets. Two planes were downed. One piloted by Captain Robert Bailey of the 493rdBS
and the other was Wells' crew piloted by Kauffman. Two crewmembers, McKerman and Wells became POWs and survived
the war. 9 others lost their lives. At least one crewmember parachuted safely but was mobbed and beaten to
death...that was Gambale. Evidently, Kauffman had dropped two bombs on his first run when hit by ground fire
which was reported as very heavy and wounding Kauffman seriously. The plane hit the ground and the Japs said
they found 7 bodies in the wreckage. MACR 3999.Unfortunately I don't have a crew photo of this crew on the
web site. Would there be a crew photo of this crew in Wells’ photos?
Thanks for the email!Jim
|
LOOKING FOR INFO/PHOTOS OF GRANDFATHER - VICTOR PONCIK |
To whom it might concern: I am searching for any photos of my Grandfather Lt. Col. Victor Jerome Poncik,
who might I remind you he just past away on April 8th of this year 2006 and is buried in the national cemetery
in Grand Prairie Texas. It would be nice if you could remember him in your prayers. For he was a very loving
person with a big heart. I would like to know how I could purchase some books on this unit. And send me some
pictures of him if you have some.
Michael Elder, Step Grand son of Victor J. Poncik
Michael_Elder@msn.com
Editor’s Note: I emailed Michael and informed him first history book was still available at Turner Publishing.
|
LOOKING FOR INFO ON CHARLES “CRUMMY” COMPTON |
Dear Sir,
I have a completed copy of an Application for Membership into the Caterpillar Club I received from Switlik
Parachute Company identifying T/Sgt. Charles Crompton 3rd as a member of the 436 Bomb Sqd. (H) 7 Bomb Group.
He was a bombardier on B-24 42-217805 and was forced to bail out over China on July 21, 1944 when it went down
due to "mechanical trouble." Please add his name to the roster.
I would like to communicate with anyone who might have served with him to learn more about his activities during
WW II. He was my uncle. Before he died in 1988, he told me he had bailed out over China. He also
told me his nickname was "Crummy" Crompton because he was always neat and clean. Unfortunately,
that is all I know about him and what he did during the war.
My aunt sent me a copy of the Caterpillar Club Certificate he received from Switlik Parachute Company.
I contacted the company and received a copy of his Application for Membership to the Caterpillar Club
today.
Thank you for your help.
Jim Lux
1409 Thaddeus Cove
Austin,TX 78746
512-327-1750
jlux@austin.rr.com
FOLLOWUP EMAIL FROM JIM:
Sir,
The photo of Capt. Nolte's group was provided courtesy of Krstyle Heffner. Is it possible to put me
in touch with her. My uncle is Charles Crompton III (Waist Gunner/Engineer) is in the photo.
I know very little about what he did during WW II I would like to contact her to learn more about
him and Capt. Nolte's crew.
Thank you,
Jim Lux
Editor’s Note: Jim, I can't locate Krstyle's email address in my files. I'll keep looking and see if I can
find it. If not, I'll publish your request in the next Newsletter.
|
WILLIAM LAWRENCE DENTON - 88TH RECON - DEC 7, 1941 |
Hello, My name is Charles Denton. I recently retired from the US Army. So, now I have time to look into my father's
military career. My Father's name was William Lawrence Denton. He was a Sergeant. He was with the 88th Recon Squadron.
He was in aircraft maintenance and was aboard the flight of B17's that flew into Pearl Harbor on December 7, !941.
He passed away in 1991 and unfortunately I was so busy with my military career that we really didn't get a lot
of time to discuss such things. I've got a few documents putting him in the unit and newspaper clippings putting
him in theatre. I also am in possession of a few personal items of his. I do have his original patch like the one
shown on your web page with the Burmese? star and regular star over the red and white stripes. I have a personalized
belt buckle of his with this emblem and his name an service number.
Anyway, I was wondering if anyone remembers him or could lead me to any group or association that might have information
regarding him or his unit?
Thank you!
MSG Charles Denton, Retired
cdenton@wi.rr.com
|
CURATOR LOOKING FOR INFO - NEVILLE PUBLIC MUSEUM |
My name is Trevor Jones and I am Curator of History at the Neville Public Museum in Green Bay, Wisconsin. I’m
currently researching the life of Austin Straubel of the 7th BG (the local airport is named for him). I have very
much enjoyed reading the 7th Bombardment Group’s history by Mr. Dorr. I’m interested in tracking down some of the
original material used in the book that pertains to Straubel. Did the 7th save the materials used to compile the
book, or are they held by the Air Force? Specifically I’m interested in the reminiscences of Straubel’s bombardier
Raymond O. Carr, among others. I’d also like too find out if there’s more information on Straubel’s relationship
with Colonel Eubank. Any information on the location of these sources would be most appreciated!
Sincerely,
Trevor Jones
Curator of History
Neville Public Museum
210 Museum Place
Green Bay, WI 54303
jones_tm@co.brown.wi.us
920-448-4499 ext. 216
920-448-4458 (fax)
Editor’s Response:Trevor, I don't have the sources used in Bob Dorr's book nor do I know where they are located
and what Bob did with them. I would suggest you contact Bob and he may be able to help you on this.
He's email address is:robert.f.dorr@cox.net Sorry I couldn't help you but what I can do is publish your letter
in our next newsletter and maybe one of the members might know some information
Jim
|
S/SGT MARTIN BRADLEY - 492ND |
Jim: What a great site you have put together. I ran across it yesterday just out of luck. I noticed
that my father is listed on the Group Roster (S/Sgt. Martin Bradley-Unit 492). I sent him the information
relating to the website in hopes he will contact you and others from the Group that are still living. He
is just learning the computer and email after all these years (he is 86) and is slowly getting up to speed with
its nuances. His email is mjbcbivet@aol.com and he and my mom (married 61 years) live in Brentwood, CA (Northern
California). Please add to the address book when you have a chance. He is also writing some memoirs from
his time in theater which was nearly three years (1942-1945) and I am sure he would enjoy sharing them with those
interested. I am sure he has some photos around somewhere as well. Thanks for all your efforts in administering
this website for our deserving veterans and those who are interested in the CBI WWII operations theater.
Best regards,
Martin J. Bradley III,
Senior Consultant. Hill International, Inc.
425 California Street, Suite 925
San Francisco, CA 94104;
(415) 248-1288 Telephone (direct);
(415) 249-0138 Fax
Editor’s Response: Martin,Thanks for the email! Appreciate hearing from you and give all my best to your
father. I lost my dad in 1996; he was in the 493rd...miss him every day. I will make sure that your
dad's email address is included on the web site and if you have any crew photos of him and his crew that you'd
like posted, I'd be honored to do so.Again, nice hearing from you and please let your father know that the next
reunion will be in Tucson, AZ...maybe you both could come! You're dad will be getting a new newsletter
in Nov...I'll be publishing it since I was recently elected as Sec/Treas...so look for it....it will also be published
on the web site.
Fairest winds,
Jim
|
LOOKING FOR INFO ON UNCLE - KENNETH A. JOHNSON |
Jim Augustus, My name is John Dullum. I'm contacting you after I found your absolutely superb website on the
7thbg. I recently found out that a deceased uncle of mine was a member of the 10th AF/7thBG. His name was Kenneth
A. Johnson, from Minneapolis, MN (he was born in North Dakota). Ken was married to Lorraine Johnson who passed
away last month. In her passing, she left my mother several of Ken's wartime belongings. They include his dress
uniform, ribbons, and patches including the 10th AF patch and the China/Burma shield with Chinese sun and U.S.
star. Ken always told us he flew the hump but gave no indications of what service he performed or in what command/unit.
Along with his uniforms, my mother also received a photo of Ken's crew members in front of their B-24 and Ken's
medals. The medals include a Distinguished Flying Cross and an Air Medal. A small news paper clip from Ken's hometown
in N.D. stated that Ken and his crew received the DFC from BGEN Davidson. The news paper clip does not provide
a date or say why the crew got the DFC, except for exceptional flying service There is also a small photograph
in Ken's papers that shows the crew getting an award; what medal I don't know (DFC, good conduct?). Anyway, Ken's
belongings are now with my Mom in Minneapolis who provided me descriptions over the phone. It was from that info
I started doing research and found your website. The photo of Ken's crew has the members names and signatures.
They are: LT Ready, OR – Pilot; FO(?) Murphy, Ill – Engineer; LT Lewis, NJ - Bombardier/Navigator; LT Muldoon,
IN – Copilot; SGT Muldany, CA; SGT Carns, OH; SSGT Millar, OH; SGT Winkler, AK; SGT Johnson, ND (my uncle), Radio/gunner;
SGT Walters, PA The aircraft in the background, a B-24 has the number 474 on it. According to the newspaper article,
the crew had the numerical designation(?) 302-8-83. I do not know to what squadron they were attached, nor do I
have any other info on his service or where he was stationed. Perhaps your foundation members or records can shed
some light on this. But I did want to share this with you. As soon as I get a good look at the items next month,
I will endeavor to get the photo's scanned and send them off. Do you prefer hardcopy copies too? Ken was always
a proud of his service and was a life time member of the VFW and American Legion. I believe he would have been
equally proud of the work you and your foundation are doing to preserve and share their service.
Respectfully,
John Dullum
jdullum@jwac.mil
jmdxjmd@hotmail.com
Editor’s Note: I don't have a photo of your uncle's crew on our web site nor can I find one in all my "stuff".
Have you had a chance to look at your uncle's memorabilia and if so was there a crew photo there and anything else
that would link him to a specific squadron?
|
VINCENT H. MUSSELLA—493RD BS |
Dear Sir, I am trying to collect information about my fathers WWII experiences (without him finding out). We
(his children) are planning a surprise. I believe he was in the 493rd BS. I noticed a picture of the
entire squadron and I'm wondering if my Pop's in there. Any information you can provide would be much appreciated.
Thank you.
Editor’s response:Michael, I have looked through everything I have and I only come up with a James (Jimmie)
Musella. Of course my crew data is not anywhere near complete. I can only go on what has been published
in recent books and a few months of squadron histories that I have. Do you have any other information to
go on...like dates when he was overseas? other crewmember names? or was he aircrew or ground crew?
if aircrew, what was his crew position (pilot, radio, gunner, etc??).
Jim
|
ATTENDEE LIST FROM REUNION 2006 - ABILENE |
|
FIRST NAME |
LAST NAME |
SQDN |
EMAIL ADDRESS |
| Mr. & Mrs. Lee | Anderson |
HQ/436/492 |
lee2terry2@wmconnect.com |
| Mr. & Mrs. Jim | Augustus |
493rd |
saug@cei.net |
| Mrs. Mary | Bankston |
9th |
|
| Mr. & Mrs. Marion | Caldwell |
9th |
MDC4812@aol.com |
| Mr. Larry | Chambers |
Guest |
itchambers@bmt.net |
| Mr. Phillip | Coulter |
436th |
coulter826@aol.com |
| Mr. Max | Green |
9th |
minnmax@aol.com |
| Mr. & Mrs. George | Juhl |
9th |
|
| Mr. & Mrs. Rudy | Karpstein |
493rd/HQ |
k3006@comcast.net |
| Mr. & Mrs. Gene | Link |
9th |
link@chilbardun.net |
| Mr. & Mrs. Leonard | Lueken |
9th |
L.JLuke25@aol.com |
| Mr. John | Lytle |
9th |
jlytle@peoplepc.com |
| Mrs. Doris | McLaughlin |
9th |
|
| Mr. Kim | McLaughlin |
9th |
kimmac829@bmt.net |
| Mr. & Mrs. Charlie | Niblett |
9th |
ctillman@att.net |
| Mr. James | Oleson |
492nd |
|
| Mr. & Mrs. Virgil | Poston |
9th |
postonbettye@aol.com |
| Mr. & Mrs. Hovey | Reed |
9th |
drhoveyg@bellsouth.net |
| Mr. & Mrs. Jerry | Rhame |
9th |
|
| Mr. & Mrs. Dean | Samual |
493rd |
|
| Mr. & Mrs. Tom | Sledge |
492nd |
tesledge@aol.com |
| Mr. Warren | Spencer |
9th |
wgandgrace@earthlink.net |
| Mr. Robert | Stell |
9th |
|
| Joan | Terry |
7th |
tnj@syv.com |
| Mr. Kenneth | Van Zandt |
493rd |
|
| Mr. & Mrs. Walter | Wegner |
9th |
wlwegner@msn.com |
| Mr. John | Werner |
493rd |
john.t.werner@boeing.com |
| Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth | Willes |
492nd |
|
TAPS |
| OWEN BAGGETT | 9TH BS |
| PAUL WADE | 493RD BS |
| CARL FRITSCHE | 9TH BS |
| MANNY PALACIOS | 492ND BS |
| MARK FRANCIS DAVIS | 11TH BS |
| CHARLES BEAUVAIS | 493RD BS/HQ |
| VICTOR J. PONCIK | 11TH BS |
| HAROLD BRUCE HOWREN | 492ND BS |
|
TREASURER'S REPORT |
|
ACCOUNT BALANCE SUMMARY |
|
| REGULAR SHARES |
$589.04 |
| PREMIUM SHARES |
$25,656.73 |
| CHECKING |
$4,270.32 |
| TOTAL BALANCE |
$30,516.09 |