1.
| Baetcke,
Bernard G. Major, U.S. Army
126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 30 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Major Bernard G. Baetcke, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against
enemy forces on 30 November 1942, in the vicinity of Sanananda, New Guinea.
Major Baetcke’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: MI Was a CPT assigned to HQ, 63D Inf. Bde. (Mich.
NG) at Detroit, MI, when 32D Div. was mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40. | | BunaX |
2.
| Bailey,
Cladie Alford ‘Gus’ (Allen) First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942 (Victory
in Papua lists date as 30 Nov. ’42)
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) Cladie Bailey,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company G, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 2 December 1942, in the vicinity
of Buna, New Guinea. First Lieutenant
Bailey’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” According
to the Indianapolis Star on 17 Mar.
’43, 1st Lt. Bailey earned the DSC “after
he was wounded near Buna, New Guinea, 2 Dec. ‘42, when, as commander of a
rifle company, he led an assault on enemy shelters, machine gun nests and
mopped up a hostile bivouac.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 1
(1 January 1943)
Born: 26 October 1910 at Heltonville, Indiana
Home of record: Heltonville, Indiana Death: 20 April 1945 Interred: Mundell Christian Church Cemetery, Pleasant Run
Township, Indiana Status: KIA
Graduated Ind. U. in ‘32, ROTC; teacher and
basketball coach at Heltonville H. S.; married, father of 1; commissioned 2d
Lt. in Officers Reserve Corps; served with Co. H, 333D Inf.,
Organized Reserve, ca. ‘36; served with CCC ca. ‘37 and ‘38; entered active
service 19 Apr. ‘41; SN O-296675; assigned to 32D Div. at Camp
Livingston, LA; sailed with the Div. on 22 Apr. ‘42; assigned to 126TH
Inf.; marched over Owen Stanleys; WIA
19 Dec. ‘42; promoted to Capt. on 31 Dec. ‘42; promoted to Maj. on 15
Oct. ‘43; promoted to Lt. Col. on 15 May ‘44; WIA at Aitape; KIA 20 Apr. ‘45
while commanding 1ST Bn., 126TH Inf., at Luzon,
Philippines at age 34; wife was notified on 28 Apr. ‘45; listed on 9 May ‘45
casualty list; earned
Silver
Star, posthumously; earned at least one Purple Heart; brother
served during WWII, Tec. 5 Jesse P., ETO. | | BunaX |
3.
| Bajdek,
Walter A. Private First Class, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 2D Battalion, 126TH Infantry
Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 10 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Walter A. Bajdek,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 126th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 10
December 1942, in the vicinity of Buna, New Guinea. Private First Class Bajdek’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in Papua: “On 10
December, just as the 2d Battalion was about to be relieved, Pfc. Walter A.
Bajdek, of Battalion Headquarters Company, made a dash under heavy enemy fire
to reestablish communication with an advanced observation post overlooking
the enemy positions.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born: 25 October 1917 at Michigan
Home of record: Grand Rapids, Michigan Death: 29 May 1985 Interred: Holy Cross Cemetery, Grand Rapids, Michigan Son of Waclaw or Valdimir ‘Walter’ and Victoria
(Jakubowska or Jakobowski) Bajdek, both Polish immigrants; mother remarried, Mrs.
John Hogan, Grand Rapids, MI (hometown) (‘40 census); entered service at
Kalamazoo, MI on 23 Apr. ‘41; SN 36155598; received the DSC from Maj. Gen.
William H. Gill during a ceremony in Australia on 23 Jul. ‘43; promoted to
Sgt.; promoted to S. Sgt.; also earned Bronze Star, CIB; changed his surname
to Byron in the ‘50s; married, father of 5. | | BunaX |
4.
| Balza, William J. Private
First Class, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 2D Battalion, 127TH Infantry
Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished
Service Cross to Private First Class William J. Balza, United States Army,
for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an
armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 127th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry, in action against enemy forces on 25
December 1942, near Buna, New Guinea. When an infantry Company was cut off
from its battalion, Private First Class Balza, in an effort to reestablish
communications, volunteered to attempt to carry a telephone line to the
isolated company. Though forced back twice by heavy enemy fire, with courageous
determination and complete disregard for his own safety, he crawled forward
across an open field and succeeded in reaching the isolated company with the
telephone line. Private First Class Balza’s conspicuous courage and
determination were an inspiration to the men of his unit. His intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
The citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle, Milwaukee Journal, 26
June 1943, “PVT William [Balza], Route 4, Sawyer, dared death three times
near Buna mission Christmas day. The third time he succeeded in his mission
and has received a Distinguished Service Cross. Japanese soldiers allowed a
company to cross an open field, then cut the company off from its unit by
sweeping the field with machine gun fire every time anyone attempted to reach
the isolated company. [Balza]
volunteered to brave this fire to string a telephone line across this field.
Twice he and SGT Elmer Coon, Black Creek, WI, wormed into knee high grass but
were forced back. The second time a soldier trying to protect them with rifle
fire was killed. [Balza]
volunteered to make a third attempt and finally succeeded as machine gun
bullets cut the grass all around him. The wire which he dragged across the
field maintained communication between the isolated company and other units
until help was brought.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born: 21 December 1911
Home of record: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Death:
3 December 1997 Interred:
St. Michaels Catholic Cemetery, Town of Jacksonport, Wisconsin | | BunaX |
5.
| *Baser, Raymond Mancil Private
First Class, U.S. Army
Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 10 December 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Raymond [M.] Baser (ASN: [67615204]), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
Company E, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against
enemy forces on 10 December 1944. Private First Class Baser’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his
life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 105 (1945)
Born: 1 April 1924 at Missouri
Home of record: West Plains, Missouri Death:
3 April 1945 on Luzon Interred:
Mount Zion Cemetery, Poe Hill, Missouri Status:
KIA He entered service 27 May ‘43 at Jefferson
Barracks, MO; SN 67615204 (37615204); promoted to Sgt.; KIA 3 Apr. ‘45 at
Luzon, Philippines at age 21; family notified ca. 16 May ‘45; repatriated
aboard the Sgt. Jack J. Pendleton ca. 13 Jan. ‘49; the LT (Large Tug)
452, Sgt. Raymond Baser, a 127’ ocean-going tug, was built for the
Army by Northwestern Shipbuilding Co. at South Bellingham, WA, and delivered
in Jun. or Sep. ‘44, sold in ‘58 and re-named Adeline Foss, later Ann
W in ‘77, used as target and sunk by Bolivian Navy in ‘79. | added 31 Jan. ‘13 | LeyteX |
6.
| *Bayerl,
Joseph P. Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 7 July 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Joseph P. Bayerl (ASN:
20649268), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 7 July
1944. Staff Sergeant Bayerl’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his
life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States
Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 140 (1944)
Born: 17 March 1919 at Blenker,
Wisconsin
Home of record: Milladore, Wisconsin Death: 7 July (10 July) 1944 near Aitape, New Guinea Interred: Saint
Kilian Cemetery, Blenker, Wisconsin Status: KIA Son of John and Rosalia
(Linzmaier) Bayerl, Milladore, WI (hometown); farmer; Pvt. with Co. C, 128TH
Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Marshfield, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; home on leave
for Thanksgiving in ‘41; promoted to S. Sgt.; parents received telegram 19
Jul. ‘44 stating he had been MIA since 7 Jul. ‘44; parents received telegram
22 Jul. ‘44 stating he was KIA 10 Jul. ‘44; also earned Purple Heart. | added 8 May ‘14 | AitapeX |
7.
| Beaver,
Chester Martin Major, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation: “Major Chester M. Beaver, (ASN: 0-20887), General Staff Corps,
Headquarters 32d Infantry Division, United States Army, for extraordinary
heroism in action near Buna, New Guinea, on 5 December 1942. After extensive and useful activity at the
hazard of his life during the [attack] on 5th December, Major Beaver, late in
the afternoon, organized a patrol from the Cannon Company, 128th
Infantry, for an attempt to outflank an enemy position. Crawling through mud and water, under heavy
fire, the patrol worked its way within a hundred yards of Buna Village and
materially assisted in the attack.
Major Beaver’s daring leadership was an inspiration to the men of his
command.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born: 26 March 1914 at Broken Bow, Nebraska
Home of record: Yankton, South Dakota Death: 31 July 1944 near Funafuti, Ellice Island (now
named Tuvalu) Interred: National Memorial Cemetery of the
Pacific, Honolulu,
Hawaii Status: DNB His father was Capt. who
organized Co. E, 6TH Neb. Inf., Neb. Nat. Guard, in ‘17, that unit
became part of 147TH FA Regt., which was attached to 32D
Div. during WWI; graduated U. of Nebr. in ‘36; ROTC; commissioned 2d Lt.; SN
O-020887; served with Btry. E, 147TH FA, Nebr. Nat. Guard;
stationed at Schofield Barracks, HI at ‘40 census; stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC
ca. ‘41, Capt. and Aide to Brig. Gen. Edwin F. Harding, Asst. Div. Cdr., 9TH
Div. (soon to be Cdr. of 32D Div.); assigned to 32D
Div.; earned Silver
Star for his actions 16 Nov. ‘42 at Cape Sudest, New Guinea (he
may have been aboard the Minnemura
when it was attacked by Japanese Zeros); he is also cited in 32D
Div. GO No. 53 (1943), which may mean an additional award; assumed command of
1ST Bn., 126TH Inf. on 13 Dec. ‘42, succeeded Lt. Col.
Edmund J. Carrier; DNB (KIA) 31 Jul. ‘44, passenger aboard PB2Y-3R No. 7233
which crashed near Funafuti, Ellice Island (now named Tuvalu); interred at
Honolulu, HI. | | BunaX |
8.
| *Bender,
Herman Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company M, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 31 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Herman Bender (ASN:
20648133), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with Company M, 127th Infantry Regiment,
32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 31 December 1942, in
the vicinity Buna, New Guinea. Private
First Class Bender’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion
to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” His citation was summarized by Robert J.
Doyle, Milwaukee Journal, on 26
June 1943, “A Distinguished Service
Cross was awarded posthumously to Pvt. Herman Bender, Fond du Lac, who gave
his life getting important information for his commanding officer. Bender volunteered to cross nearly 200
yards of unpatrolled ground to attempt to make contact between two American
forces closing on the enemy beachhead.
He reached the other force, obtained necessary information and had
started back to report when he was severely wounded. Bender dragged himself to his platoon and
made his report shortly before he died.
The information was of great value and enabled the two American forces
to close the gap for the final attack against Japanese positions at Buna
mission.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born: 11 June 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of record: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Death: 31 December 1942 Interred: Estabrooks Cemetery, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Status: KIA Son of German immigrants; Pvt. with Co. M, 127TH
Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Fond du Lac, WI, when mobilized on 15 Oct.
‘40; promoted to Pfc. | | BunaX |
9.
| *Binns,
Jack M. Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 November to 11 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Jack M. Binns (ASN: 20634431),
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 126th Infantry Regiment,
32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 26 November 1942
to 11 December 1942, in the vicinity Cape Endaiadere, New Guinea. Private Binns’ intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” According to the Detroit Free Press on 4 Apr. ‘43, Pfc.
Binns earned the DSC “for crawling into
enemy machine gun and sniper fire in the New Guinea area to drag a wounded
comrade to safety. When on a second volunteer
watch, to relieve men overcome by heat, Binns was killed by a sniper.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 29 (1943)
Born: 1917 at Michigan
Home of record: Kalamazoo, Michigan Death: 11 December 1942 near “Huggins’ Roadblock” Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Graduated Kalamazoo Central H.
S. in ‘36; Pvt. with
Co. C, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, Kalamazoo, MI, when 32D
Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; promoted to Pfc. (1 reference implies
he was promoted to Cpl.); also
earned Purple Heart. | | BunaX |
10. | *Boice,
William Francis ‘Jimmy’ Captain, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 2D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 19 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) William F. Boice (ASN: 0-226890),
United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while commanding a Battalion of the 126th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
19 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign near Buna, New Guinea. When all except one of his officers had
been killed, Captain Boice, as battalion commander, realized the need for
personal leadership and promptly went forward without regard for his own
personal safety and led his troops against a heavily fortified and almost
inaccessible enemy stronghold of great importance. He was killed while advancing at the head
of his men. Captain Boice’s gallant
leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his
life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 3 (1943) Born: 1904 at Indiana
Home of record: Swayzee, Indiana Death: 19 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea Interred: Manila American Cemetery; also memorialized at
Converse Cemetery, Mier, Indiana Status: KIA
Son of Ora A. and Anna M.
(Leming) Boice; father passed away when William was about 13, mother
remarried, Mrs. Frank J. Ladd; also had ties to Greencastle, IN; graduated
DePauw U. in ‘26, ROTC; teacher at Deedsville, IN, and teacher and basketball
coach at Ervin Township H. S. (Howard Co.) ca. ‘34-‘41; married, father of 1;
commissioned 2d Lt. in Officers Reserve Corps in ‘26; SN O-226890; served with
335TH Inf., 84TH Div., Organized Reserve, ca. ‘29; 1st
Lt. with 336TH Inf. ca. ‘33; entered active service 1 Apr. ‘41;
S-2 of 126TH Inf. on the eve of Buna; led small, advance
reconnaissance patrol (“pathfinder patrol”) of Kapa Kapa Trail over
Owen Stanleys; assumed cmd. of 2D Bn., 126TH Inf.,
after Maj. Herbert M. Smith was WIA 7 Dec. ‘42; KIA 19 Dec. ‘42 ca. age 38,
mortally wounded by mortar fire at 0945 hours, while leading his Bn. in
attack near Buna, New Guinea; wife received telegram on 16 Jan. ‘43; also
earned Purple Heart; succeeded by Capt. John J. Sullivan as Cdr. of 2D
Bn., 126TH Inf.; his DSC was presented to his wife, pinned on his
5-year old son, during a ceremony at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN on 1 Aug. ‘43;
interred at Manila American Cemetery; also memorialized at Converse Cemetery,
Mier, IN; namesake of William F. Boice Chap. of Reserve Officers; the ‘43 Echo
(Ervin Township H. S. yearbook) was dedicated in his honor, ““Jimmy,” a
former coach of the Ervin Eagles, had many friends, and was an inspiration to
all who knew him. His dynamic energy spurred many a ball team to victory. May
we derive from him, that same energy and spirit to follow in his steps to
greater achievements.”; namesake of the Boice Award (a.k.a. Jimmy Boice
Award or Jimmy Boice Memorial Medal), awarded for good sportsmanship by the
Howard Co. basketball tournament committee beginning in ‘44; a “handsome
granite monument erected in the school yard of the Ervin Township School”
was dedicated in his honor on 14 Jan. ‘45. | | BunaX |
11. | Bottcher,
Hermann Johann Friedrich Captain (then Staff Sergeant), U.S. Army
Company H (attached to Company G), 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5-11 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Herman J. F. Bottcher
(ASN: 0-888451), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 5 to 11 December 1942,
in the vicinity of Papua, New Guinea. Captain Bottcher’s outstanding
leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his
life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General
Orders No. 64 (December 28, 1942) Born: 13 July 1909 in Germany Home of record: San Francisco, California Death: 31 December 1944 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Bottcher,
Hermann Johann Friedrich Captain, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 20 December 1942
Citation: “Captain Herman J. F. Bottcher, (ASN: O-888451), 126th
Infantry, United States Army. For extraordinary heroism in action near Buna,
New Guinea, 20 December 1942. Although wounded the previous day, Captain
Bottcher volunteered to [lead] a
detachment of infantry in an attack on an enemy strong-point in terrain which
he was familiar. He carefully prepared the men for the attack, and encouraged
them by his own example to advance within twenty yards of the enemy emplacements.
When the patrol was held up by small arms fire in this advanced position, he
stood up without regard for his own safety and drew the enemy’s [fire] so that the patrol could move to another
area. He was again wounded during this action. Captain Bottcher’s outstanding
courage and leadership were an inspiration to the men under his command.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 36 (1943) Born: 13 July 1909 in Germany Home of record: San Francisco, California Death: 31 December 1944 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Orphaned at an early age; moved to Austria at age 19;
worked as cabinetmaker; he emigrated to U.S. ca. ‘30, lived with an aunt in
San Francisco, CA (hometown); gained citizenship; volunteered to serve with
Abraham Lincoln Brigade during Spanish Civil War; WIA twice and thrice
decorated for his combat exploits during his 25 mos. in Spain; U.S. revoked
his citizenship as a result of his service in Spain; attended San Francisco State
College, architecture, 6 credits shy of degree when he left to enlist in Army
after Pearl Harbor; entered service at Presidio of Monterey on 5 Jan. ‘42; SN
39085246; assigned to Co. H, 126TH Inf.; WIA 7 Dec. ‘42, he
refused evacuation; received battlefield commission to Capt. from Gen.
Eichelberger; SN O-888451; WIA 19 Dec. ‘42; WIA 20 Dec. ‘42; later assigned
cdr. of Co. A, 126TH Inf.; later cdr. of Co. A, 127TH
Inf.; assumed cmd. of 32D Recon. Trp. (later 32D Cav.
Recon. Trp. Mech.) on 19 May ‘44; likely succeeded 1st Lt. Bernard J. Lillie,
acting cdr.; KIA 31 Dec. ‘44 during an attack on the CP near Mambahoa, Leyte,
Philippines, started about 0245 hours, seriously WIA at 0355 hours when the
small building housing his CP was hit by a mortar, his leg was nearly blown
off and he had other shrapnel wounds, Lt. Royale L. Steele applied a
tourniquet and Sgt. Anthony G. Gaidosik, medic, administered morphine, but
the plasma he desperately needed was destroyed when the CP was hit, a Cub
plane dropped plasma at 0800 hours but it was too late, he died at 0810
hours; S. Sgt. Donald H. Aney and Pvt. John A. Curwin were KIA during same
attack, “The bodies were buried the
morning of 3 Jan. ‘45 in USAF cemetery at Limon, Leyte, Central Philippines.”;
interred at Manila American Cemetery; his other awards include Bronze Star,
Legion of Merit, Purple Heart w/3 OLCs, CIB. For additional information and photographs of this amazing
Soldier and his remarkable military career, please visit this awesome
website: http://www.hermannbottcher.org/index.html. | | BunaX BunaX |
12. | Bradley, Joseph Sladen Colonel, U.S. Army Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 28 December 1942 Citation: “The President of the United States of
America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in
presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (General Staff Corps)
Joseph Sladen Bradley (ASN: 0-12428), United States Army, for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving as Chief of Staff, Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 28 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna,
New Guinea. To further an attack by an
infantry company against a strongly fortified enemy area, Colonel Bradley
left his command post, went to the most forward positions, personally aided
the progress of the attack, and contributed materially to its success. While under heavy enemy fire he moved about
among the men continually risking his life to encourage and assist the
advance in every way possible. Colonel
Bradley’s inspiring leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 36 (1943) Born: 9 June 1900 at Washington Home of Record: Mount Pleasant, South Carolina Death: 17 January 1961 Interred: U.S. Military Academy Cemetery, West Point, New
York Appointed from SD; graduated U.S. Military Academy at West
Point, Class of ‘19 (originally Class of ‘21, due to WWI they graduated early
in ‘18 and subsequently graduated again in ‘19); awarded Silver
Star for his actions 27 Dec. ‘42 near Buna, New Guinea; bestowed with DSC
for his actions 28 Dec. ‘42; awarded OLC to Silver
Star for his actions 11 Jan. ‘43 near Tarakena, New Guinea; awarded DSM
for his actions as Brig. Gen. and Chief of the Training Group, G-3 Division, War
Department General Staff, from Mar. ‘44 to Nov. ‘45.; awarded OLC to DSM for
his actions as Brig. Gen. with Far East Command from 23 Oct. ‘46 to 13 Aug.
‘48; bestowed with OLC to DSC for his actions 1-5 Sep. ‘50 as Brig. Gen. and
Asst. Div. Cdr. of 2D ID during the Korean War; awarded 2nd and
3rd OLC to Silver Star for his actions Mar. and May ‘51 as Brig. Gen. and
Maj. Gen. with 25TH Inf. Div. during the Korean War; retired as
Maj. Gen. in 1956. | | BunaX |
13. | Bradley, Leonard Taylor
‘Jim’ Private First Class, U.S. Army Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 5 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Leonard T.
Bradley, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in
action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942. Private First Class Bradley’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 46 (1944) Born: 21 October 1913 at Franklin County, Iowa Home of Record: Death: 20 January 2006 at Monticello, Iowa Interred: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Monticello, Iowa Family history says it was during a
full-scale Japanese attack that he removed his helmet to cover a
Japanese grenade that fell in a foxhole he shared with others, he placed his
foot on helmet in the hope the mud would absorb most of the shrapnel, which
it did; he saved all the men in that foxhole, but lost a foot and part of his
leg as a result of his wounds; also awarded Purple Heart; discharged from
service in October of 1943. | | BunaX |
14. | Brooks, Henry Ellwood Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 24 April 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Henry E. Brooks,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces on 24 April 1945. Staff Sergeant Brooks’
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 55 (1945) Born: 17 May ’19 at Oakland, California Home of Record: Maywood, California Death: 2 May 1999 Interred: Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA Joined Co. F, 127TH Inf. on Luzon; served with
SSG Ysmael R. Villegas, Medal of Honor recipient who was KIA 20 Mar. ’45;
bestowed with DSC for his actions 24 Apr. ’45 along the Villa Verde Trail;
other awards include Bronze Star w/OLC, Purple Heart w/OLC, Philippine
Liberation Medal w/1 bronze star, Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal w/1 bronze
star, American Theater Medal, Good Conduct Medal, WW II Victory Medal, and
CIB; died in auto accident 2 May ’99 on his way home from his Red Arrow
Division reunion; interred at Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA; his
family has a website dedicated to him: http://www.angelfire.com/hi/RedArrowDivision/index.html. | | VVTX |
15. | Budai, George C. Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 8 May 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technical Sergeant George C.
Budai, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company A, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 May 1945. Technical Sergeant Budai’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 7 (1946) Born: 29 August 1919 at Cook County, Illinois Home of Record: Coppersville, Michigan Death: 23 February 2002 at Muskegon, Michigan Interred: Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Muskegon, Michigan He entered service 25 Aug. ‘42 at Kalamazoo, MI; SN
36192021; also earned Silver
Star; other awards include Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal,
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/3 battle stars, WWII Victory Medal, Philippine
Liberation Medal w/1 battle star, 5 Overseas Service Bars, 1 Service Stripe;
discharged 25 Nov. ‘45. | added 6 Sep. ‘13 | VVTX |
16. | *Burns, James P. Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army 1ST Battalion,
128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 19 & 24 May 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)
James P. Burns (ASN: 0-265547), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 19 and 24 May 1945.
Lieutenant Colonel Burns’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and
zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 99 (1945) Born: Home of Record: Clarke County,
Virginia Death: 24 May 1945 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA *Burns, James P. Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army 1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry
Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 19 & 24 May 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)
James P. Burns (ASN: 0-265547), United States Army, was awarded a Bronze Oak
Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces during World
War II. Lieutenant Colonel Burns’
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost
of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the
United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Authority: A.B.M.C. Born: Home of Record: Clarke County, Virginia Death: 24 May 1945 on Luzon, Philippines Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA SN 0-265547; married, father of 1; overseas May ‘43 as
Maj. with 1ST Cav. Div.; promoted Lt. Col. Dec. ‘44 and assumed
command of 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf.; KIA on the Villa Verde
Trail 24 May ‘45 as a battalion commander; other awards include Silver
Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart w/2 OLC; interred at Manila American
Cemetery. | | VVTX VVTX |
17. | Byers, Clovis Ethelbert Brigadier General, U.S. Army Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 15 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “For extraordinary heroism in
action near Buna, New Guinea, on 15 December 1942. Immediately prior to
launching an attack on an enemy position, Brigadier General Byers, without
regard to his personal safety, visited the front line troops in close
proximity to the enemy and to the impact are of our own preparatory mortar
concentration, inspiring the men to a greater effort by his personal example.
When the attack was launched, he advanced to a position within fifty yards of
the assaulting troops. When wounded by an enemy sniper, he continued
observation of the action and encouragement of the troops until he was
evacuated. His inspiring example of heroism contributed greatly to the
success of the attack.” General Orders: Authority: Headquarters, South West
Pacific Area, General Orders No. 63 (1942) Born: 5 November 1899 at Columbus, Ohio Home of Record: Columbus, Ohio Death: 13 December 1973 at Washington, D.C. Interred: Arlington National Cemetery Graduated U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of ’20;
he was Gen. Eichelberger’s (I Corps) Chief of Staff during Papuan Campaign;
he briefly assumed command of 32D Division’s forward troops (but
not command of the Div. as a whole) after BG Waldron was WIA on 5 Dec. ’42;
he was WIA by a Japanese sniper on 16 Dec. ’42; also awarded the Silver
Star during Papuan Campaign; later awarded 3 Bronze Stars, a 2nd Silver
Star, Legion of Merit, DSM and Air Medal for his service with I Corps and 8th
Army during WWII; also served during Korean War; retired in 1959 as LG. | added 9 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
18. | Campbell, Robert H. Private, U.S. Army Company M, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 17 December 1942 to 1 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Robert H. Campbell,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company M, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces from 7 December 1942 through 1
January 1943, in Buna, New Guinea. Private Campbell’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Authority: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces
in the Far East, General Orders No. 34 (1943) Born: 24 September 1915 Home of Record: Iowa Death: 30 September 1972 Interred: St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Dougherty, Iowa There is some discrepancy regarding his unit. The 32D
Infantry Division in World War II states he was assigned to Co. H, while
his DSC and Victory in Papua state he was assigned to Co. M. | | BunaX |
19. | Carew, John Joseph Colonel, U.S. Army 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 16 November 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Colonel (Corps of Engineers)
John J. Carew, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with the 114th Engineer Combat
Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 16
November 1942, in the vicinity of Cape Sudest in New Guinea. Colonel Carew’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in Papua, Col.
Carew was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for his leadership and
direct participation in hastily organized rescue parties which saved numerous
comrades from burning and sinking Allied supply ships as they were attacked
by Japanese aircraft in the shallows off Cape Sudest on 16 November 1942. General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 64 (28 December 1942) Born: 29 October 1897 at Medford, Massachusetts Home of Record: Medford,
Massachusetts Death: 16 July 1980 at Medford, Massachusetts Interred: Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford, Massachusetts Son of Irish immigrants;
married, father of 10; resided at 24 George St., Medford City, MA at ‘40
census; enlisted in Mass. Nat. Guard in ‘15; served during Mexican Border
Crisis and WWI; commissioned at some point, SN O-126433; WIA, listed on 22
Mar. ‘19 casualty list; a 1st Lt. John J. Carew served with 6TH
Inf., 5TH Div., joined unit 21 May ‘18, Anould, St. Die, St.
Mihiel, Meuse-Argonne, WIA 15 Oct. ‘18, returned to duty 19 Nov. ‘18; earned Silver Star and Purple Heart w/OLC;
1st Lt., Inf., in Off. Reserve Corps ca. ‘20; 1st Lt. in Co. E, 101ST
Engr. Regt., 26TH Div., Mass. Nat. Guard, Medford, MA, ca. ‘22;
Capt. in ‘23; Maj. in ‘28; served with 114TH Engr. Bn. during
WWII; earned DSC for his actions 16 Nov. ‘42 near Cape Sudest, New Guinea;
earned OLC to Silver
Star for his actions 23 Dec. ‘42 near Buna, New Guinea; also earned Bronze Star w/OLC; bestowed
with British Empire Medal by Prime Minister of Australia; retired as
Brig. Gen.; brother Capt. Walter R. served during WWII; son John Jr. served
during WWII and Korea. | | BunaX |
20. | *Cherney, Carl J. Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Company C, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 20-21 November 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Carl J. Cherney
(ASN: 20649177), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 128th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
20 and 21 November 1942, at Buna, New Guinea. Staff Sergeant Cherney’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost
of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the
United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” A newspaper article, dateline
Allied Headquarters, Australia, 5 February 1943, summarized the citation, “SSG Carl J. Cherney led his company in an
attack against the enemy positions. He advanced ahead of his men, through
heavy enemy machine-gun and mortar fire, encouraging them by his example. SSG
Cherney’s fire leadership and forceful driving power was responsible in a
large part for the success of these attacks. On several occasions, he aided
wounded men to withdraw from the field which was under enemy machine-gun
fire. SSG Cherney was killed during this action.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 14 (1943) Born: Home of Record: Marshfield, Wisconsin Death: 20 or 21 November 1942 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Enlisted in Co. C, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Marshfield, WI in 1936; CPL in same unit on 15 Oct. ’40;
assumed command of his company on 21 Nov. after 1SG Reuben J. Steger was KIA,
the 1SG had assumed command earlier that day after officers became
casualties; KIA at age 27. | | BunaX |
21. | Clark,
Claude Ellis, Jr. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 19 – 21 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) Claude E.
Clark, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces during World War II. First Lieutenant Clark’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” According to newspaper accounts, 1st Lt. Clark “distinguished himself with brave
leadership in the fighting [near Buna, New Guinea] from Nov. 19 to Nov. 21.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 29 (1943)
Born: 25 August 1916
Home of record: Raleigh, North Carolina Death: 24 November 1944 at Leyte, Philippines Interred: Oakwood Cemetery, Hickory, North Carolina Status: KIA Attended George Washington H. S.
at Danville, VA, played football; graduated Virginia Presbyterian School,
Danville, VA, on 5 Jun. ‘34 (Danville Military Institute founded in ‘20,
military training dropped and name changed in ‘33, military training and
original name returned in ‘37); attended NC State College of Agriculture and
Engineering ca. ‘36-‘38; married Jeanette Rankin Bagwell at Raleigh, NC on 9
Nov. ‘40; entered service at VA ca. ‘41; SN O-366033; severely WIA 22 Nov.
‘42; awarded DSC on 29 May ‘43 by Lieut. Gen. Walter Krueger; promoted to
Capt. | added 23 Feb. ’17 | BunaX |
22. | *Clarkson,
Gordon Madison Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 January 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Gordon
Madison Clarkson (ASN: 0-21222), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy as Commanding
Officer, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 28 January 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Clarkson’s outstanding
leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his
life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States
Army.” His
actions were described by Robert J. Doyle in a pair of war-time dispatches
from New Guinea on 3 and 4 Feb. 1944. Lt. Col. Clarkson personally led group of
volunteers that rushed to aid 1st Lt. George J. Hess’ group after it became
isolated on north bank of Mot River near Saidor on 28 Jan. ’44. The group was part of the 50-may patrol
from 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf. that was attacked by a 100-man
Japanese force west of the Mot River near Teterei, along the western edge of
the Saidor beachhead, earlier that day.
The rescuers formed a human chain reaching from the bank into the
river to catch 1st Lt. Hess as he was trying to carry a rope across the
raging river, so his men could attempt to get back to the friendly side. Clarkson was the anchor of the chain on the
river bank and was WIA by machinegun fire while trying to pull Sgt. Thomas R.
Reed up the bank to find cover from the enemy fire. Sgt. Reed then pulled Lt. Col. Clarkson
into the grass for concealment but he DOW soon after.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 23 (1944)
Born: 26 August 1915 at Macon, Missouri
Home of record: Macon, Missouri Death: 28 January 1944 near Teterei, New Guinea Interred: Oakwood Cemetery, Macon, Missouri Status: DOW Married; graduated Macon H. S. in ‘33; graduated USMA at
West Point, Class of ‘38; SN O-021222; 1st duty station was the Presidio, 2
years; then assigned to Borinquen Field, Puerto Rico, promoted 1st Lt. there;
assigned to Jamaica in ‘41, promoted Capt. there; assigned to Camp Roberts,
CA Jun. ‘42; assumed cmd. of 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf. 13
Dec. ‘42, Maj. by then; earned Silver
Star for his actions at Buna; promoted Lt. Col. | 14 Oct. ‘14 | SaidorX |
23. | Clough, Arthur G. Corporal, U.S. Army Company G, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 31 March 1945 Citation: “The President of the United States of
America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in
presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Arthur G. Clough (ASN:
32998981), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G,
128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces along the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 31 March
1945. On that date, Corporal Clough was manning an outpost foxhole with three
companions when several enemy succeeded in approaching to within a few feet
of the position. The Japanese began hurling hand grenades; several exploded
outside the hole and one landed inside the emplacement. Courageously pushing
the grenade away from his comrades, Corporal Clough covered the explosion
with his feet and absorbed the entire blast in his own body, suffering
grievous wounds in both legs. His companions, saved by his heroic action,
arose and repelled the attack. By his exceptional gallantry and devoted
concern for the welfare of his comrades, Corporal Clough prevented a serous
enemy break-through of his company’s perimeter. His intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 276 (1945) Born: 1919 at Maryland Home of Record: Whitestone, New York He entered the service on 14 Aug. ’43 at NY; he endured
several months of recuperation and rehabilitation in hospitals after the
incident. | added 8 Jan. ‘13 | VVTX |
24. | Coker, James T. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 8 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry)
James T. Coker (ASN: 0-405391), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F,
127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 8 January 1943, at Tarakena, New Guinea. First Lieutenant Coker’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life,
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 34 (1943) Born: 7 July 1917 at
Oklahoma Home
of Record: Durant, Oklahoma (some references list Comanche County, Oklahoma) Death:
3 May 1944 Interred:
memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila American Cemetery Status:
MIA He enlisted in OK Nat. Guard on 24 Jun. ‘34; entered
active service 16 Sep. ‘40 as Sgt. with 45TH Div., Oklahoma
National Guard, at Durant, OK; SN 20827469; trained with 45TH Div.
at Camp Barkeley, TX; commissioned at some point; new SN 0-405391; 2d Lt.
transferred from 180TH Inf. ca. 17 Feb. ‘42; assigned to 127TH
Inf., 32D Div.; also awarded Silver
Star for his actions 25 Dec. ‘42 near Buna, New Guinea; also awarded
Bronze Star and Purple Heart; promoted to Capt.; MIA, presumed KIA, 3 May ‘44
along Driniumor River near Aitape, New Guinea; namesake of James T. Coker
Army Reserve Center, 1500 N. First St., Durant, OK. | updated 21 Jul. ‘13 | BunaX |
25. | Combs, John E. Private, U.S. Army Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 1 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private John E. Combs, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company E, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 1 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign in
New Guinea. Private Combs’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 1 (1943) Born: Home of Record: Tennessee | | BunaX |
26. | *Crow, John William First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company C, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 19-20 November 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry)
John W. Crow (ASN: 0-328644), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy in aerial combat
while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division in New
Guinea. On 20 November 1942, during
the battle at Buna, First Lieutenant Crow led Company C to destroy several
Japanese machine gun emplacements, and during the fighting, while assaulting
another enemy machine gun nest, he aggressively moved forward firing into the
emplacement, but was killed by enemy fire.” A newspaper article, dateline Allied
Headquarters, Australia, 5 February 1943, summarized the citation, “1st Lt. John W. Crow led his platoon, and
then the entire company, in a most successful advance. With complete disregard for his own safety,
while under heavy sniper and machine gun fire, he pushed forward, encouraging
his men by his own courageous personal example. 1st Lt. Crow was killed during this
action.” According to V in P: “Lieut. Crow, last seen charging an enemy machine gun post,
submachine gun in hand, was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 14 (1943) Born: 28 February 1909 at Waxahachie, Texas Home of Record: Bryan, Texas Death: 20 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea Interred: Greenwood Memorial Park and Mausoleum, Fort
Worth, Texas Status: KIA (initially MIA) Son of John Franklin and Sarah
Frances (Benning) Crow; graduated Waxahachie H. S., played football; worked
at Waxahachie Ice Co. while in high school; attended Allen Academy, played
football; graduated Texas Agricultural and Mechanical College in ‘35,
four-year football letter man, selected for All-Southwest Conference team in
‘34, member of Corps of Cadets; married, father of 2; worked as teacher and
coach at Allen Academy; resided at Bryan, TX; also had ties to Plum Grove, TX
and Milford, TX; commissioned in Officers’ Reserve Corp in ‘35; entered
active service in ‘41; SN O-328644; trained to Ft. Brown, TX (stationed there
until at least Jan. ‘42); wife notified just before Christmas ‘42; wife
received DSC from Maj. Gen. Bruce McGruder, Cdr. of Inf. Replacement Center,
during ceremony at Camp Wolters, TX on 24 Apr. ‘43 (she worked as draftsman
at Consolidated Vultee, manufacturers of B-24 ‘Liberator’ bombers and C-87
‘Liberator Express’ transports, at the time). | | BunaX |
27. | Cunningham, Jack K. Private First Class, U.S. Army Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 11 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Jack K.
Cunningham, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an
armed enemy while serving with Company E, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 January 1943, in the
vicinity Tarakena, New Guinea. Private
First Class Cunningham’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division,
and the United States Army.”
According to Victory in Papua, Pfc. Cunningham earned the
Distinguished Service Cross for his role among a small group of volunteers
who endeavored, under fire, to string a guide cable across Konombi Creek near
Tarakena, New Guinea, on 10-12 January 1943.
The creek’s current was very swift; the guide cable was needed to
enable assault boats to cross the creek and continue the 127TH
Infantry’s advance. He and S. Sgt.
Robert G. Thompson, Co. C, worked together to string the first cable. General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 36 (1943) Born: 13 August 1916 Home of Record: Texas | | BunaX |
28. | Dal Ponte, Peter Louis First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Service Company, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 9 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry)
Peter Louis Dal Ponte, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 9 December
1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Sanananda, New Guinea. First Lieutenant Dal
Ponte’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” According
to Victory in Papua, 1st Lt. Dal Ponte earned the DSC for his actions
as commander of ‘Huggins’ Roadblock’ on 9 Dec. ’42 near Sanananda, New
Guinea. After leading several
re-supply patrols into the beleaguered roadblock as Cdr. of Svc. Co., 126TH
Inf., 1st Lt. Dal Ponte assumed command of the key position on 8 Dec. ’42,
when its namesake, the wounded Capt. Meredith M. Huggins, needed to be
evacuated. General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 28 (1943) Born: 31 March 1917 at Three Rivers, Michigan Home of Record: Three Rivers, Michigan Death: 26 December 1987 at Walter Reed Army Hospital,
Washington D.C. Interred: Son of Italian immigrants; graduated Mich. State College
in ‘39, played baseball in ‘38-‘39; entered service in ‘40; assigned to 126TH
Inf. as 2d Lt. ca. 25 Apr. ‘41; SN O-34486 (034486); also earned Silver
Star w/OLC; returned to U.S. in Jun. ‘45, Maj. by that time; joined
Regular Army; reported to Ft. Leavenworth, KS in Sep. ‘48 to attend Cmd. and
Gen. Staff College; earned Legion of Merit for his service as Col. Sep.
‘60-Aug. ‘64; retired in ‘72 after 32 years of service; married, father of 3. | | BunaX |
29. | *Daniels, Delmar H. Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Company B, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 1 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Delmar H. Daniels,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 126th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 1
December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Staff Sergeant
Daniels’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at
the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces
of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 14 (1943) Born: 21 March 1919 Home of Record: Lenawee County, Michigan Death: 1 December 1942 Interred: Maple Grove Cemetery, Hudson, Michigan Status: KIA He was a SGT in Co. B, 126TH Inf., Michigan
National Guard, at Adrian, MI, when the 32D Div. mobilized on 15
Oct. ’40; namesake of Delmar H. Daniels Post No. 399 of American Legion in
Adrian, MI. | | BunaX |
30. | *Dannelly, Sheldon M. Captain, U.S. Army Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 4-5 March 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Sheldon M.
Dannelly (ASN: 0-373430), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 4 and 5
March 1945. Captain Dannelly’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and
zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.” A summary
of the actual citation from an unnamed Army newspaper was quoted in the
Herald-Journal on 22 Aug. ’48, describing how CPT Dannelly was posthumously
bestowed the Distinguished Service Cross “for
extraordinary heroism in action March 4 and 5, 1945. Capt. Dannelly,
commanding Co. A, 127TH Infantry, skillfully attacked a heavily
defended enemy position over open terrain defeating the enemy snipers and
machine gunners. Throughout the engagement which lasted for 2 days, Capt.
Dannelly, with utter disregard for his own safety, and in the face of heavy
enemy artillery, mortar, and sniper fire, went from fox-hole to fox-hole
giving encouragement and direction to his men.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 43 (1945) Born: 16 November 1917 Home of Record: Ehrhardt, South Carolina Death: 25 April 1945 Interred: Ehrhardt Cemetery, Ehrhardt, South Carolina Status: KIA *Dannelly, Sheldon M. Captain, U.S. Army Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 25 April 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Sheldon M.
Dannelly (ASN: 0-373430), United States Army, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf
Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 25 April
1945. Captain Dannelly’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of
the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon
himself, his unit, and the United States Army.” A summary of the
actual citation from an unnamed Army newspaper was quoted in the
Herald-Journal on 22 Aug. ’48, describing how CPT Dannelly was posthumously
bestowed the Oak Leaf Cluster to the Distinguished Service Cross for “extraordinary heroism in action along the
Philippine Islands April 25, 1945. As an infantry company was preparing to
attack, a bomb suddenly smashed into the perimeter, burying 5 men with its
explosion. The enemy immediately concentrated machinegun and rifle fire on
the area where the bomb had landed. Capt. Dannelly, the company commander,
seized an entrenching shovel and with complete disregard for his own safety,
rushed forward across the 50 yards of open ground with bullets striking all
about him. Although the enemy fire grew in intensity, he rose to his feet
and, fully exposed, began digging into the rock and sand beneath which men
were buried. As he undertook his self-imposed task, he was hit and killed by
enemy fire. Capt. Dannelly, through gallant sacrifice of his own life,
provided a lasting inspiration for the men with whom he served.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 62 (1945) Born: 16 November 1917 Home of Record: Ehrhardt, South Carolina Death: 25 April 1945 Interred: Ehrhardt Cemetery, Ehrhardt, South Carolina Status: KIA Graduated Wofford College, Class of ’39 (was member of
Senior Order of Gnomes in ’38-’39 and was editor of the Wofford “Journal”
which featured poetry and short stories written by students); after
graduating he became principal of Hampton H.S.; entered service Feb. ’42; 1LT
and commander of Co. A, 128TH Inf. at Buna; also assumed command
of Co. C, 128TH Inf. on 29 Dec. ’42 at Buna after that unit’s last
officer (and 5th commander in 5 weeks) was seriously WIA (so he briefly
commanded both companies simultaneously); commander of Co. A, 127TH
Inf. on Luzon; KIA 25 Apr. ’45 on Luzon. | updated 4 May ’13; added 27 Jan. ‘13 | VVTX VVTX |
31. | *De Rosier, Edwin C. Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army 1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry
Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 19 November 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technician Fifth Grade Edwin
C. Derosier (ASN: 36209011), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a
Medical Aidman with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 19 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
in Buna. Technician Fifth Grade DeRosier’s intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 14 (30 January 1943) Born: Home of Record: Wakefield, Michigan Death: 2 December 1942 Interred: Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis,
Minnesota Status: KIA Was a medic; entered service at Milwaukee, WI; headstone
lists middle initial as ‘W’; Victory in Papua lists unit as 107TH
Med. Det. | | BunaX |
32. | Doherty,
Timothy C. Major, U.S. Army Headquarters, 3D Battalion, 127TH
Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 5 – 22 March 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Major Timothy C. Doherty,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces from 5 to 22 March 1945. Major Doherty’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 63 (1945) Born: Home of Record: Boston, Massachusetts Assigned Cdr. of 3D Bn., 127TH Inf.
on 27 Jan. ‘45 at Luzon, Philippines; relinquished cmd. on 20 Mar. ‘45;
succeeded by Capt. Cornelius Wiley on 21 Mar. ‘45; also earned Silver
Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart. | added 21 Apr. ‘17 | VVTX |
33. | Doughtie, James D. Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company C, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 23 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Second Lieutenant (Corps of
Engineers) James D. Doughtie, United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 114th
Engineer Combat Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces at Buna, New Guinea, on 23 December 1942. When a bridge was needed for
the passage of tanks into enemy positions, Lieutenant Doughtie, with complete
disregard for his own safety, directed the work of his men. His courageous
example, under constant and intense enemy fire was an inspiration in keeping
with the finest traditions of service to our country.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 4 (1943) Born: 14 January 1915 Home of Record: Massachusetts Death: 21 January 1997 Interred: Arlington National Cemetery | | BunaX |
34. | *Downer, James Garnett First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 9 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry)
James G. Downer (ASN: 0-349447), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 9 December 1942, during Papuan Campaign Buna, New Guinea. First
Lieutenant Downer’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion
to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to
an unaccredited article in the Reading Eagle on Jan. ’43, “Lieutenant Downer, on December 9, led
five men in an attempt to capture a strong machine gun emplacement until
killed by an enemy sniper.” In an
unaccredited wartime dispatch from Australia on 15 Feb. ’43, printed in the Chicago
Daily Tribune on 8 Mar. ‘43, a war correspondent asked several leaders “What was the outstanding act of heroism
you saw during the Papuan Campaign?” MAJ Oliver O. Dixon referred to 1LT
Downer and said of him: “Lt. Downer took command of a company near
Buna and went among his men during heavy fire, talked to each, and raised
morale tremendously. During this time our mortars had been dropping shells on
a very strong emplacement, hoping to reduce it. It was necessary to find out
if they had. Downer called for patrol volunteers and led it himself. “A sniper got him as he led his patrol
close to the emplacement which hadn’t been reduced by our mortars. His act
was as near a suicidal one as I saw.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 7 (1943) Born: 23 November 1915 (or 1912) at Pekin, Illinois Home of Record: Tazewell County, Illinois Death: 9 December 1942 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Graduated U. of Ill. ’38; also studied at Bowling Green
College and/or Western Kentucky U.; had ties to Pembroke, KY; entered service
from KY; marched over Owen Stanleys, where he led 5-man commo. det. as part
of CPT Medendorp’s advance guard; other awards include the Purple Heart and
CIB. | updated 15 May ‘13 | BunaX |
35. | Duket, Frank David, Jr. Sergeant, U.S. Army Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 24 December 1942 Citation Needed: According to an article in the 2 February
1945 issue of The Longhorn, the Camp Wolters, TX, newspaper, Sgt.
Duket earned the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions on 24 December
1945 near Buna, New Guinea. “Once on patrol with another ex-Wolterite, Lt. Fred W. Matz of the 67TH
Battalion, Sgt. Duket was cut off from the main American forces. For six days and nights they wandered
behind the Jap lines, gathering data that ultimately served to be the
downfall of the Japs in the Papuan campaign.” Lt. Matz earned the Distinguished Service
Cross. Some references list Cpl.
William M. Gleason as the man with Lt. Matz. General Orders: Born: 25 July 1918 at Dunbar, Wisconsin Home of Record: Marinette, Wisconsin Death: 12 June 1962 at Marinette, Wisconsin Interred: Forest Home Cemetery, Marinette, Wisconsin He attended Marinette H. S., captain of football team and
boxer; Green Bay Golden Glove champion, 212-11, first bout in Chicago at age
17, made it to national quarter finals in ‘35-‘37, finalist in ‘38 at Chicago
(lost to Jimmy Reaves from Cleveland); resided with his sister on Rt. 1 (Hwy.
30), Waukesha, WI and worked for Wilbur Lumber Co. ‘38-‘39 before returning
to Marinette; enlisted in Co. A, 127TH Inf., Wis. Nat. Guard,
Marinette, WI on 9 Sep. ‘40; Pvt. when mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20645868;
competed in Div. boxing matches, Div. heavyweight champion for 4 years, ca.
‘41-‘44; Sixth Army heavyweight champion in ‘44; earned Silver Star for his
actions 14 May ‘44 at Marubian, New Guinea, he crawled 100 yards under heavy
fire to rescue a wounded Soldier, Pfc. Sammy Spilman had been shot in the
legs and couldn’t move; WIA 15 May ‘44 near Marubian, New Guinea, hit in
shoulder by machinegun bullet while chasing a Japanese soldier in attempt to
take him prisoner; transferred to Camp Wolters, TX on 24 Dec. ‘44, assigned
to Co. A, 62D Bn., 11TH Regt., a training unit; coached
Bn. boxing team, may have also competed, known as the ‘Malarious Mauler’;
received his Silver Star, Purple Heart and CIB during ceremony at Camp
Wolters, TX in Jan. ‘45; also earned Bronze Star at some point; 1 reference
states he earned Silver Star w/OLC in lieu of DSC and Silver Star, I haven’t
found any official information about 2nd Silver Star or DSC; promoted to
T/Sgt. ca. 13 Apr. ‘45; re-enlisted on 25 Oct. ‘45 at Camp Wolters, TX; also
served with Co. A, 54TH Inf. Tng. Bn. at some point; married Julia
or Julie Jarvis, father of 3; became police officer at Marinette, WI on 1
Feb. ‘47, retired 27 Dec. ‘57 due to health issues resulting from his wartime
service; boxing instructor for youths of Marinette and Menominee; co-founder
of Tri-City Handicappers Club in Dec. ‘59; member of American Legion and St.
Anthony’s Church. | added 18 Mar. ’17 ; not HoH or HoV | BunaX |
36. | *Eastwood, Howard M. Private, U.S. Army Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 26 November 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Howard M. Eastwood
(ASN: 38063831), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 126th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26
November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Private
Eastwood’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at
the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces
of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 9 (1943) Born: 12 January 1920 at Oklahoma Home of Record: Garvin County, Oklahoma Death: 26 November 1942 Interred: Status: KIA Entered service 17 Jan. ’42 at Ft. Sill, OK; interred at
Fort Gibson National Cemetery, Fort Gibson, OK; also awarded the Purple
Heart. | | BunaX |
37. | Eoff, Gordon Wayne Private, U.S. Army Headquarters Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment,
32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 25 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Gordon W. Eoff, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Headquarters Company, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 December 1942, during the Papuan
Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Private Eoff’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 36 (1943) Born: 23 August 1918 at Belafonte, Arkansas Home of Record: Arkansas Death: 26 April 1963 at Little Rock, Arkansas Interred: Huie Cemetery, Clinton, Arkansas | | BunaX |
38. | *Estrada, Bernardino Y.
‘Ben’ (Bernadino) Private, U.S. Army Company E, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 16 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Bernadino Y. Estrada
(ASN: 38070627), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 128th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
16 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Private Estrada’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life,
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” According
to Victory in Papua, Pvt. Estrada earned the DSC for his efforts to
eliminate a key Japanese bunker near the Coconut Grove at Buna on 16 December
1942. His citation was summarized in
the Arizona Republic on 3 May ’43: “General
MacArthur cited Private Estrada for extraordinary heroism during an infantry
company’s attack against prepared enemy positions December 16. Estrada advanced alone over open ground to
within 20 yards of an enemy pillbox, which he attacked with grenades and
rifle fire. When his unit advanced to
that position, Estrada again took the lead in clearing out Japanese
dugouts. He was killed while
voluntarily engaged in clearing out the last enemy position.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 9 (19 January 1943) Born: 1916 (1915) near Vail, Arizona Home of Record: Vail, Arizona Death: 16 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Hispanic American; cast as an extra in Arizona, starring Jean Arthur and
William Holden, which was filmed at several locations in and around Tucson
and other locales in AZ; worked as carpenter at Ft. Huachuca, AZ; entered
service at Ft. Bliss, TX on 8 Jan. ‘42; SN 38070627; also earned Purple
Heart; mother received DSC from Col. Edwin N. Hardy, Cdr. of Ft. Huachuca,
AZ, during a large ceremony at the post on 17 Jul. ‘43, 5,000 people attended;
Hispanic Americans from Pima Co., AZ, purchased $180,000-worth of war bonds
for a B-25 ‘Mitchell’ built to honor Pvt. Estrada; namesake of Cocio-Estrada
Post No. 59 of American Legion, Tucson, AZ. | | BunaX |
39. | *Fale, William F. Sergeant, U.S. Army Headquarters Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment,
32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 25 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant William F. Fale (ASN:
36204872), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company,
127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 25 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea.
Sergeant Fale’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 29 (1943) Born: 3 June 1913 Home of Record: Sheboygan County, Wisconsin Death: 26 December 1942 Interred: Greendale Cemetery, Kohler, WI Status: KIA Entered service 21 Mar. ’41; also awarded Purple Heart. | | BunaX |
40. | *Fernandez, Henry Private First Class, U.S. Army Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 21 March 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Henry
Fernandez (ASN: 39131885), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E,
126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 21 March 1945. Private First Class Fernandez’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life,
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 204 (1945) Born: 6 January 1925 Home of Record: Santa Clara, California Death: 21 March 1945 Interred: Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno,
California Status: KIA | added 9 Jan. ‘13 | VVTX |
41. | Fierman, Robert L. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army __, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 21 March 1945 Citation: “The President of the United States of
America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in
presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Field
Artillery) Robert L. Fierman (ASN: 0-1178471), United States Army, for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy, in action against enemy forces near Colibong, Luzon, Philippine
Islands, on 21 March 1945. During a
savage Japanese counterattack, Lieutenant Fierman, an artillery observer, was
stationed in an exposed forward position which soon became the focal point
for concentrated enemy fire.
Disregarding the pleas of his men that he take cover in a foxhole, he
remained in the open, the better to direct his artillery. With enemy artillery and mortar shells
bursting around him he remained at his radio for twenty-five minutes, until
struck by a shell fragment which flung him ten feet from the radio and
wounded him seriously. Bleeding
profusely and in great pain, he remained at his post, skillfully directing
artillery fire, until a withdrawal was begun to another position. Only then did he allow his serious wound to
be dressed. Through his outstanding
heroism in the face of grave danger and his high devotion to duty, Lieutenant
Fierman was instrumental in causing many losses among the Japanese forces and
protecting the successful withdrawal of his battalion to a more advantageous
position. His intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
his unit, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 49 (14 July 1945) Born: 27 January 1921 Home of Record: New York, New York Death: 20 March 1996 at Great Barrington, Massachusetts Interred: He completed OCS 10 Dec. ‘42 to 4 Mar. ‘43; commissioned
2d Lt., FA; SN O-1178471; served with 32D Div.; New Guinea, Philippines;
also earned Silver
Star, Purple Heart w/OLC; attained rank of Capt.; married Mary
‘Mickey’; worked as an actor and behind the scenes on Broadway in New York,
including Come Marching Home, The Eagle Has Two Heads; worked in
advertising for Foote, Cone & Belding; worked for NBC-TV WJW, unit
manager of The Aldrich Family, Lights Out, Cameo Theater, Fireside
Theater, Mr. Peepers, Armstrong Circle Theater, Hallmark Summer Theater, and Your Prize Story; producer of Colgate Summer Comedy Hour; joined
WRTV, Asbury Park, NJ, on temp. assignment as television programming
consultant ca. Jul. ‘53, returned to west coast that fall; produced
commercials, industrial films and documentaries for MGM and Cascade
Productions of Calif.; moved back to New York, NY and owned International
Film Sales and Production Associates; he and his wife also owned Le Junque
Shop in New York; moved to South Egremont, MA in ‘71, where he and his wife
owned a pair of gift-book-clothing shops. | added 23 Apr. ‘17 | VVTX |
42. | Fisher, Albert L. Private First Class, U.S. Army Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 24 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Albert L.
Fisher, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company I, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 24 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Private First Class Fisher’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
According to Victory in Papua, PFC Fisher, “who had been evacuated for treatment of his wounds to a point just behind
the front line, saw two men of his unit lying wounded in an area swept by
enemy fire. Disregarding his wounds and the continuing enemy fire, Fisher
crawled into the open and dragged both men to safety.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 36 (1943) Born: 1916 Home of Record: Indiana Death: 1989 Interred: WIA 24 Dec. ’42. | | BunaX |
43. | Fraser, Powell Alexander First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 11 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry)
Powell A. Fraser, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 January 1943, during
the Papuan Campaign at Tarakena, New Guinea. First Lieutenant Fraser’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, 1st Lt. Fraser earned the Distinguished Service Cross was for
his unit’s heavy weapon support of the assault crossing of Konombi Creek near
Tarakena, New Guinea, on 10-12 January 1943, which enabled the continued
advance of the 127TH Infantry. General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 29 (1943) Born: 30 May 1918 at Brunswick, Georgia Home of Record: Brunswick, Georgia Death: 23 October 2005 Interred: Mount Hope Cemetery, Florence, South Carolina He graduated Presbyterian College in ‘41, ROTC, played
football; commissioned 2d Lt., Inf., on 2 Jun. ‘41; SN O-34889; Lt. Col. and
Cdr. of 1ST Bn., 127TH Inf. at Luzon and Army of
Occupation; also earned Silver
Star, Bronze Star w/3 OLC; assigned professor of military science at
Presbyterian College ‘46-‘50; Cdr. of 2D Battle Grp., 13TH
Inf., Ft. Carson, CO; served as military advisor to Gen. Chiang Kai-shek at
Formosa ca. ‘61; retired as Col. in ‘65; an article in Time on 13 Aug.
‘45, attributed to the Army Public Relations Office, stated he served “more hours under fire during World War II
than any other officer who served in the U. S. Armed forces”; married,
father of 4, son Powell A., Jr., retired as Navy Capt.; founder of Military
Protestant Men of the Chapel; organizer of Presbyterian Men of the Church;
voted National Outstanding Presbyterian Layman of the Year; served as
Director of Development at Presbyterian College; President of King College,
Bristol, TN; founded Christian Faith and Economic Values Forum; awarded
Honorary Doctor of Humanities from King College and Presbyterian College;
inducted into Presbyterian College ROTC Hall of Fame; resided at Hilton Head,
SC. | | BunaX |
44. | Fulmer, Talley (Tally)
Doyle Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 31 December 1942 & 11 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Second Lieutenant Tally D.
Fulmer, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces from 31 December 1942 to 11 January 1943,
during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Second Lieutenant Fulmer’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” According to Victory in Papua, part of the reason 2LT
Fulmer earned the Distinguished Service Cross was for his leadership during
the assault crossing of Konombi Creek near Tarakena, New Guinea, on 10-12
January 1943, which enabled the continued advance of the 127TH
Infantry. General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 34 (1943) Born: 23 July 1917 at Saluda County, South Carolina Home of Record: South Carolina Death: 4 February 2000 at Greenville, South Carolina Interred: Wood Memorial Park, Duncan, South Carolina Was 1LT and Cdr. of Co. C, 127TH Inf. for the
11 Jan. ’43 event. | | BunaX |
45. | Funk, Chester C. Sergeant, U.S. Army Cannon Company, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 23 & 24 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Chester C. Funk,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Cannon Company, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 23 and 24 December 1942,
during the Papuan Campaign at Sanananda, New Guinea. Private Funk’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
According to Victory in Papua, part of the reason SGT Funk was
bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross was for his actions on 23-24
December 1942 in the Sanananda area when he, although already WIA,
singlehandedly defended a sap against repeated enemy attacks throughout the
night. The sap had been dug to within a short distance of an enemy trench
near the track junction, with the hope that it could be used to successfully
assault the trench. The next morning, 24 December, four soldiers did just
that. The track junction was the point where the Killerton Trail met the
Soputa-Sanananda Track. General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 45 (1943) Born: 27 May 1918 Home of Record: Washington Death: 16 May 1999 Interred: Arlington National Cemetery | | BunaX |
46. | *Furr, William C. Sergeant, U.S. Army Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 29 March 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant William C. Furr (ASN:
33637070), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 128th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
29 March 1945. Sergeant Furr’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of
the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon
himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 68 (1945) Born: 1911 at West Virginia Home of Record: Arlington Country, Virginia Death: 29 March 1945 on Luzon, Philippines Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Married; entered service 10 May ’43 at Richmond, VA; SN
33637070; also earned Purple Heart. | added 4 Mar. ‘14 | VVTX |
47. | Gill, William Hanson Major General, U.S. Army Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 16 April – 15 May 1945 Citation: According to Always a Commander…, Maj.
Gen. Gill was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross “for extraordinary heroism in
action at Luzon, Philippine Islands, from the 16th of April to the 15th of
May, 1945. General Gill commanded an
infantry division engaged in heavy fighting against strong enemy forces
firmly entrenched in a series of strongly fortified positions in the
Torricelli Mountains. Realizing the
need for aggressive action and continuous pressure against the enemy, he
frequently visited front line units where he directed the operations against
important objectives. On May 3rd he
went to an infantry observation post to direct an attack against a stubbornly
defended hill and took a position two hundred yards from the area of heaviest
fighting. Although fully exposed to
enemy observation and subjected to heavy machine gun and sniper fire, he
remained at his position and directed the action so that the enemy defenses
were penetrated and destroyed and the battalion’s objective obtained. The courageous leadership displayed by Gen.
Gill and his calm determination while directing operations under enemy fire
contributed markedly to the success of his division in the Luzon
campaign. By command of Gen. MacArthur.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General
Orders No. 141 (1945) Born: 7 August 1886 at Unison, Virginia Home of Record: Colorado Springs, Colorado Death: 17 January 1976 at Colorado Springs, Colorado Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Colorado Springs, Colorado Married, father of 1; graduated VMI in ‘07; moved to WA;
worked for Spokane engineering dept. (only worked a few months, laid off due
to Panic of ‘07); later worked as surveyor; later worked in engineering
section of Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad (CM&StP), a.k.a.
the Milwaukee Road (MILW); returned to VA to temporarily replace his father
as Loudoun Co. treasurer; when father resumed duties as treasurer, William
went to work for People’s National Bank, Leesburg, VA; joined Virginia
National Guard on 2 Dec. ‘10, helped organize a company at Leesburg, and was
appointed Capt. and Cdr. of the unit; attended a course at Ft. Myer
pre-requisite to examination for possible commission in Regular Army;
commissioned 2d Lt., Inf., on 24 Apr. ‘12; SN O-3287; 21ST Inf.,
Vancouver Barracks, WA; transferred to 8TH Inf., Ft. William
McKinnley, Luzon, Philippines, summer of ‘15; promoted 1st Lt. on 1 Jul. ‘16;
promoted Capt. on 15 May ‘17; transferred to 5TH Div., Ft. Logan,
TX; promoted Maj. (Nat. Army) on 7 Jun. ‘18; Cdr. of 1ST Bn., 6TH
Inf. during WWI; earned Silver Star during Meuse-Argonne; discharged from
Nat. Army on 28 Jan. ‘20; promoted Maj. on 1 Jul. ‘20; detailed as
inspector-instructor to Va. Nat. Guard ‘20-‘23; assigned Cdr. of 2D
Bn., 30TH Inf., Presidio of
San Francisco, in ‘30; assigned to G-3, War Dept. Gen. Staff, ‘31-‘35;
promoted Lt. Col. on 1 Aug. ‘35; Cdr. of 1ST Bn., 29TH
Inf., Ft. Benning, GA, to ‘36; assigned XO, 27TH Inf., Schofield
Barracks, HI, in Dec. ‘36, temp. cdr. Aug.-Oct. ‘38; ROTC, U. of Cal.,
Berkeley, to May ‘40; assigned CoS, 8TH Div.; promoted Col. (AUS)
16 Oct. ‘40; transferred to 28TH Div. in Oct. ‘41; promoted Brig.
Gen. (AUS) on 31 Oct. (1 Nov., 5 Nov.) ‘41, Cdr. of 55TH Bde., 28TH
Div.; Asst. Div. Cdr., 28TH Div., Jan. ‘42; promoted Maj. Gen.
(AUS) on 24 May ‘42; assigned Cdr. of 89TH Div., Camp Carson, CO,
in Jun. ‘42; assumed command of 32D Div. on 13 Feb. ‘43; issued a
small boat with machineguns and a crew of 4 for his personal use at New
Guinea and Leyte, named it Elizabeth G.;
awarded Legion of Merit for his service at New Guinea Mar. ‘43-Oct. ‘44;
awarded OLC to Silver
Star for “gallantry in action” at Leyte, Philippines 16 Nov.-22 Dec. ‘44;
on Luzon he found a presumably Japanese military dog chained to a tree, he
adopted it and named him Ramrod, Gill’s call sign was Ramrod 5; awarded DSM
for his service in Philippines Nov. ‘44-Jul. ‘45; succeeded by Brig. Gen.
Robert B. McBride, Jr., as Cdr. of 32D Div. on 29 Aug. ‘45; also
awarded Bronze Star at some point; sailed from Manila aboard Monterey for San Francisco on 30 Aug.
‘45; retired 31 May ‘46 after 34 years of service; served as 7th president of
Colorado College ‘48-‘55, the College’s Gill House was named in his honor;
resided at Broadmoor area of Colorado Springs, CO; active in Chamber of
Commerce; member of Cheyenne Mountain Country Club, Board of Trustees of
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center; president of Memorial Park Assn.; namesake
of William H. Gill Post No. 9891 of VFW. | added 16 Dec. ‘17 | VVTX |
48. | *Graber, Harold E. Private, U.S. Army Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 5 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Harold E. Graber,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 126th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 5
December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign in New Guinea. Private Graber’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost
of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the
United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 1 (1943) Born: 11 August 1917 Home of Record: Osceola County, Michigan (see below) Death: 5 December 1942 Interred: North Brinton Cemetery, Coldwater Township,
Michigan Status: KIA Was PVT in Co. E, 126TH Inf., Michigan National
Guard, at Big Rapids, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40;
the book Papuan Campaign and his DSC information list his home of
record as TN, however, according to his enlistment record and census data, he
was born in MI and did not appear to have ties to TN. | | BunaX |
49. | Gray, Charles H. Technician
Fifth Grade,
U.S. Army Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 28 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technician Fifth Grade Charles H. Gray, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company A, 114th Engineer Combat Battalion, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Technician Fifth Grade Gray’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in
Papua, Tec. 5 Gray was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for
his role in attempting to repair a bridge, under fire, vital to the 127TH Infantry’s attack on Buna Mission from
Musita Island on 28 December 1942. General Orders: Headquarters,
South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 11 (January 22, 1943) Born: Home of Record: Massachusetts | | BunaX |
50. | Gray, Millard G. Captain, U.S. Army Headquarters, I Corps; temporarily assumed command of
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division Date of Action: 25 December 1942 to 1 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Millard G.
Gray, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Headquarters, I Corps, ADC, in action against enemy
forces from 25 December 1942 to 1 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at
Buna, New Guinea. Captain Gray’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and
zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the I Corps,
ADC, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 51 (1943) Born: Home of Record: Indiana Assigned to HQ, I Corps; temporarily assumed command of
Co. C, 127TH Inf., after death of its Cdr., CPT James W. Workman,
on 25 Dec. ’42 near Buna. | | BunaX |
51. | Grose, John E. Colonel, U.S. Army Headquarters, I Corps; temporarily assumed command of 127TH
Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 2 January 1943 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Colonel John E. Grose, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Headquarters, I Corps, in action against enemy forces on 2
January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Colonel Grose’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the I Corps, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 4 (1943) Born: Home of Record: Sutton, West Virginia Assigned to HQ, I Corps; temporarily assumed command of 127TH
Inf. mid-Dec. ’42 to mid-Jan. ’43. | | BunaX |
52. | Hangartner, Elmer R. Private, U.S. Army Company H, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 28 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Elmer R. Hangartner,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company H, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Private Hangartner’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
According to Victory in Papua, PVT Hangartner was bestowed with the
Distinguished Service Cross for his role in attempting to repair a bridge,
under fire, vital to the 127TH
Infantry’s attack
on Buna Mission from Musita Island on 28 December
1942. General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 11 (January 22, 1943) Born: 13 July 1909 at Wisconsin Home of Record: Wisconsin Death: 21 July 1994 at Fairfield, California Interred: Skyview Memorial Lawn, Vallejo, California Lived at Altoona, WI, at some point in his life; entered
service 28 Apr. ’41 at Detroit, MI; last name spelled ‘Hangarten’ in Victory
in Papua and a few other references. | | BunaX |
53. | Hantelmann, Harold Elwood Captain, U.S. Army 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 1-3 December 1942 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Harold
Elwood Hantelmann, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 1 to 3 December 1942,
during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Captain Hantelmann’s
outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 1 (1943) Born: 11 April 1910 at Dubuque, Iowa Home of Record: Iowa Death: 10 November 2002 at Dubuque, Iowa Interred: Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, Iowa Played football for U. of Iowa; nicknamed ‘Blackie’ by
some for his black beard; nicknamed ‘Handy’ by others; other awards include 2
Bronze Stars and 2 Purple Hearts; one Purple Heart when WIA in the head by a
sniper; another Purple Heart when WIA by shrapnel in the leg; served with
Army of Occupation in Japan; left Army as COL. | | BunaX |
54. | Harbert, John E. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Headquarters Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division Date of Action: 16 November 1942 Citation: “The President of the United States of
America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in
presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Ordnance
Corps) John E. Harbert (ASN: 0-408634), United States Army, for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 16 November [1942], near Cape
Sudest, New Guinea. When enemy airplanes attacked and set fire to a small
ship, First Lieutenant Harbert organized a party of men to pull to shore a
barge loaded with men and ammunition. Throughout repeated strafing by hostile
planes, he refused to take cover and continued his efforts. When flaming
debris from explosions of munitions aboard the ship fell on the barge, he
remained aboard and personally assisted in throwing the fragments overboard
and in extinguishing the flames. His courage and calmness set a heroic
example to men who had sought cover and so steadied and inspired them that
work was resumed and the unloading of the badly needed ammunition on the
barge was successfully accomplished. First Lieutenant Harbert’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area,
General Orders No. 64 (28 December 1942) Born: 13 January 1916 at Independence, Kansas Home of Record: Mount Vernon, Washington Death: 2 March 2004 at Mount Vernon, Washington Interred: Arlington National Cemetery Was Cpl. in l07TH Ord. Co., Michigan National
Guard, at Pontiac, MI, when 32D Div. was mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40;
received direct commission to ordnance lieutenant due to his background; Maj.
and commander of 732D Ordnance Light Maintenance Company on Leyte;
as Lt Col. was co-inventor of a field expedient “mortar-cannon” (nicknamed
“Whizz Bang”) which the 32D Div. used on Luzon to blast Japanese
out of caves; served during Korean War; served during Vietnam War; retired as
Col. in ‘68; inducted in Army Ordnance Corps Hall of Fame in ‘84; other awards
include Legion of Merit w/2 OLC, Soldiers Medal, and Bronze Star. | | BunaX |
55. | Hess, George J. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division (company is presumed, then 2d Lt. Hess was assigned
to Co. A when he earned Silver Star at Buna) Date of Action: 28 January 1944 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry)
George J. Hess, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 28 January
1944. First Lieutenant Hess’ intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.” His actions were described by Robert J.
Doyle in a pair of war-time dispatches filed from New Guinea on 3 and 4 Feb.
‘44. First Lt. Hess earned the DSC for
his actions as co-leader of 50-may patrol from 1ST Bn., 128TH
Inf. that was attacked by a 100-man Japanese force west of the Mot River near
Teterei, along the western edge of the Saidor beachhead, on 28 Jan. ’44. The patrol split into three groups while it
worked its way back to friendly lines on the east side of the river. His group was evacuating 1 WIA and 2 KIA
and became isolated on north bank of Mot River. At least twice he was nearly swept away
while trying to carry a rope across the raging river, so his men could
attempt to get back to the friendly side.
The patrol killed 43 Japanese soldiers, but suffered 8 killed, 6 MIA,
and 9 WIA. General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 64 (1944) Born: 23 February 1918 at Wisconsin Home of Record: Edgerton, Wisconsin Death: 13 July 1994 Married; he enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard in ‘34;
S. Sgt. in HQ Co., 128TH Inf., at Edgerton, WI when 32D
Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20648402; brother Sgt. Donald D. served in
same unit; commissioned at some point; 2d Lt. assigned to Co. A at Buna;
earned Silver
Star for his actions Christmas Day ‘42 at Buna; promoted to 1st Lt.;
promoted Capt. ca. Aug. ‘44; also earned Bronze Star w/2 OLC during WWII;
stationed at Giesen, Germany with 4TH Inf. Div. ca. ‘51 until ca.
26 Jun. ‘54; promoted to Maj. on 12 Nov. ‘52; home on leave ca. 26 Jun. ‘54;
stationed at Evansville, IN ‘54 to ca. ‘57; stationed in S. Korea ca. ‘58;
assigned chief of supply and maintenance at Ft. Ord, CA in Jan. ‘59; promoted
Lt. Col. ca. Feb. ‘61 at Ft. Ord, CA; retired ca. ’62. | added 14 Oct. ‘14 | SaidorX |
56. | Hettinger, John Adams Colonel, U.S. Army Headquarters, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 27 March 1945 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Colonel (Cavalry) John A.
Hettinger (ASN: 0-5895), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on
27 March 1945. Colonel Hettinger’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.” General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 95 (1945) Born: 12 February 1893 Home of Record: Reno County, Kansas Death: 27 March 1945 Interred: Arlington National Cemetery Status: KIA Son of James and Lula (Adams) Hettinger, 615 Sherman East,
Hutchinson, KS; attended Ohio Wesleyan U. ca. ‘13; attended U. of Kans., School
of Law, ca. ‘16; married Frances Oppenheimer, father of John A., Jr., David
A.; hometown Colorado Springs, CO; enlisted in Kans. NG, Co. E at Hutchinson,
KS, likely 2D Kans. Inf.; served during WWI; commissioned at some
point; Capt. and Cdr. of Btry. E, 76TH FA Regt., 3D
Div. during Champagne-Marne, Aisne-Marne, St. Mihiel, Meuse-Argonne;
transferred to HQ, 2D Bn., 76TH FA Regt.; WIA, gassed,
at Montfaucon, listed on 31 Jan. ‘19 casualty list; earned Purple Heart; Roll
of Honor of the 76th U.S. Field Artillery states he earned DSC for his
actions at Montfaucon and later at Bois de Remoiville on 10 Nov. ‘18 and
earned DSM for his actions at Louppy on 10 Nov. ‘18; 32D ID WWII
states he earned Silver Star; I haven’t found any additional information
about his WWI awards; stationed at Ft. Sam Houston, TX ca. ‘30; Maj. Gen.
William H. Gill’s Chief of Staff when he assumed cmd. of 32D Div.
1 Mar. ‘43; assumed cmd. of 128TH Inf. in Aug. ‘44, succeeded Lt.
Col. Herbert A. Smith; KIA 27 Mar. ‘45 by artillery shell on the Villa Verde
Trail on Luzon at age 52; he was observing the action along the front line in
the 3D Bn. sector when a Japanese artillery barrage opened up, he
and his jeep driver sought cover in an old gun position, reinforced with
sandbags, it received a direct hit and both were KIA; sons John A., Jr., and
David A. both served in Army and attained rank of Lt. Col. | added 13 Dec. ‘16 | VVTX |
57. | *Hill, Van William Private First Class, U.S. Army Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Date of Action: 28 January 1944 Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Van
William Hill (ASN: 37102849), United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 128th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
28 January 1944. Private First Class Hill’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” PFC Hill almost
certainly earned the DSC for his actions with a patrol near Teterei, New
Guinea on 28 Jan. ’44, which was described in a pair of war-time dispatches
filed by Robert J. Doyle from New Guinea on 3 and 4 Feb. 1944. He
was likely a member of 50-man patrol from 1ST Bn., 128TH
Inf. that was attacked by a 100-man Japanese force west of the Mot River near
Teterei, along the western edge of the Saidor beachhead, on 28 Jan. ’44. The
patrol killed 43 Japanese soldiers, but suffered 8 killed, 6 MIA, and 9 WIA.
He was probably a member of 1LT George J. Hess’ group after it became
isolated on north bank of Mot River. He likely was 1 of the 6 who volunteered
to stay with the wounded and dead in order that the others could escape, or
he was 1 of those wounded or dead. General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far
East, General Orders No. 129 (1944) Born: 1915 Home of Record: Craighead County, Arkansas Death: 28 January 1944 at Teterei, near Saidor, New Guinea Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila
American Cemetery Status: MIA He entered service 10 Jul. ’42 at Little Rock, AR; SN
37102849; FOD 17 Jan. ’46; also earned Bronze Star and Purple Heart; also
memorialized at Macey Cemetery, Monette, AR. | added 12 Mar. ‘14 | SaidorX |
58. | Howe,
Merle Henry Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation: “The
President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress,
July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to
Lieutenant Colonel (General Staff Corps) Merle H. Howe (ASN: 0-131962),
United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with [Headquarters, 32d
Infantry Division], in action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, near
Buna, New Guinea. During an attack on
Buna Village, when men of a rifle company short of Company officers were
checked by heavy small arms and mortar fire at close range, Lieutenant
Colonel Howe personally exposed himself to the enemy fire, moving among the
advanced groups and encouraging the men to resume the attack. He led them in an attack, gaining ground
which, held and consolidated, assisted materially in an advance on the
succeeding day. Lieutenant Colonel
Howe’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” Transcripts of the citation list unit as
HQ, 128TH Inf. Regt., but he was assigned to HQ, 32D
Div. at the time of the event.
General
Orders: Headquarters, South West
Pacific Area, General Orders No. 64 (28 December 1942)
Born: 11 April 1896 at Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Home of record: Mount Pleasant, Michigan Death: 30 August 1945 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Howe,
Merle Henry Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 11 May 1945
Citation: “The President of the United States of America,
authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a
Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished
Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Merle H. Howe (ASN: 0-131962), United
States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 May 1945 at Luzon,
Philippine Islands. During the
fighting along the Villa Verde Trail, Colonel Howe, commanding an infantry
regiment, went forward to a battalion position to observe the operations of
forward elements. Shortly afterward he
accompanied an advance patrol which was reconnoitering a route for tanks
along the slope of a hill. Half of the
patrol had traversed a narrow ravine when the enemy suddenly opened fire from
concealed positions and seriously wounded a man directly in front of Colonel
Howe. Taking charge of the patrol,
immediately Colonel Howe sent two men forward to evacuate the casualty, and
then directed covering fire into caves from which the enemy had fired. After directing removal of the wounded man
to safety, he organized the patrol for sealing the caves, but was soon
wounded by enemy mortar fire directed on the group. Despite the intense enemy fire he refused
first aid, continued to direct the demolition squad in finding a route of
approach to the caves, and assisted in providing covering fire while the
caves were closed with pole charges.
Under his direction five caves were sealed and over thirty enemy
killed. Colonel Howe, by his quick and
heroic action and his effective employment of the few troops at his disposal,
prevented numerous casualties, extricated his men from a grave situation, and
inflicted many losses on the enemy.
His outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General
Orders: Headquarters, U.S.
Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 53 (1945)
Born: 11 April 1896 at Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Home of record: Mount Pleasant, Michigan Death: 30 August 1945 Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA He graduated Central Mich. Normal School in ‘17; teacher
at Union H. S.; married, father of 4; entered service as Pvt. on 15 Aug. ‘17;
completed First Officers’ Training Camp at Fort Sheridan, IL, 15 May-15 Aug.
‘17, assigned to 3D Co., 10TH Regt.; SN O-131962;
attended School of Military Aeronautics at U. of Ill., Champaign, IL;
assigned to 1ST Cadet Sqdn. at Belleville, IL; 1st Lt. assigned to
158TH Aero Sqdn. (158TH Aero Corps); survived Tuscania sinking after it was
torpedoed by German submarine 5 Feb. ‘18; Air Corps pilot during WWI; 1st Lt.
in Aviation Section, Signal Reserve Corps, ca. ‘20; 1st Lt. in Svc. Co., 126TH
Inf., Michigan National Guard, Grand Rapids, MI ca. ‘25; promoted Capt. on 7
Jul. ‘25 or ‘26; Cdr. of Co. K, 126TH Inf., at Grand Rapids, MI,
on 15 Oct. ‘40; Lt. Col. and G-3, 32D Div. by start of Buna; WIA 5
Dec. ‘42 near Buna, New Guinea; assumed cmd. of 127TH Inf. on 14
Jan. ‘43; earned Silver
Star for his actions 16 Jan. ‘43 near Tarakena, New Guinea; earned
OLC to Silver
Star for his actions near Giruwa, New Guinea, 19 Jan. ‘43; earned
Bronze Star at Aitape; assumed cmd. of 126TH Inf. on 5 Mar. ‘45;
assumed cmd. of 128TH Inf. on 28 Mar. ‘45; WIA along Villa Verde
Trail, mortar or grenade shrapnel to leg; KIA 30 Aug. ‘45 in a plane crash on
a mountainside above the Asine River on Luzon, Philippines at age 49, while
attempting to negotiate the surrender of Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita, Supreme
Cdr. of Japanese Army in the Philippines, his pilot, Lt. Edgar T. Irvine,
suffered head injuries in the crash; wife notified 5 Sep. ‘45; had commanded
all 3 inf. regts. of 32D Div. in combat against Japanese forces;
other awards include Legion of Merit, Air Medal, Bronze Star, Purple Heart
w/OLC, CIB; interred at Manila American Cemetery; namesake of the Col. Merle
Howe Medal, awarded to the best Soldier in the 126TH Inf., Mich.
Nat. Guard, in the ‘50s. | | BunaX VVTX |
59. | Huggins,
Meredith Miller ‘Hug’ Captain, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 3D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Meredith M. Huggins,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces on 1 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
near Sanananda, New Guinea. Captain
Huggins’ outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.” An excerpt
of Capt. Huggins’ citation was published in the Dec. ’43 issue of The Phi
Gamma Delta, and read: “For
extraordinary heroism in action near Sanananda, New Guinea, on 1 December
1942. Captain Huggins successfully led
a party through enemy-infested terrain to the assistance of an isolated force
which was holding an important position behind the enemy lines. Shortly after the arrival of his party, a
strong attack by the enemy was repulsed.
During this action the commanding officer was killed. Captain Huggins assumed command and
expertly deployed his men to the best advantage. In so doing he exposed himself to heavy
enemy fire and sustained a gunshot wound.
Although his force was completely surrounded by the enemy, Captain
Huggins inspired his men by the example of his courage and by skillful
tactics succeeded in holding the position until relief was effected. His courageous leadership saved a most
precarious situation.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 28 (1943)
Born: 19 January 1915 Oakes, North Dakota
Home of record: Salem, Oregon Death: 26 November 1997 at Holualoa, HI Family resided at Courtenay, ND ca. ‘25; parents resided
at Castle Rock, WA ca. WWII; attended Oreg. State College for 3 years; graduated
U. of Minn. in ‘38, played football; worked for Pillsbury Flouring Mills, at
Minneapolis, Chicago, and South Bend; married, father of 1; commissioned 2d
Lt. in ROTC; SN 0367960; entered active service in ‘41; assigned to 126TH
Inf.; marched over Owen-Stanleys; namesake of ‘Huggins’ Roadblock’ near
Sanananda, New Guinea; when Maj. Bernard G. Baetcke asked him if he could
assume cmd. of the roadblock, Huggins replied, “I’ll hold that place until hell freezes over.”; earned DSC for
his actions on 1 Dec. ‘42, as Capt. and S-3 of 3D Bn., 126TH
Inf., when he assumed cmd. of the roadblock; WIA 5 Dec., shot in the head by
a sniper, but could not be evacuated until 8 Dec. when Lt. Peter Dal Ponte
assumed cmd.; earned Purple Heart; also earned Silver
Star for his actions near Buna; was a Maj. with 126TH Inf.
or Div. HQ at Saidor, New Guinea; also earned Bronze Star, OLC to Purple
Heart, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/4 service stars (Buna, Saidor,
Aitape, Netherlands East Indies campaigns), Presidential Unit Citation, CIB,
also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 33 (1943), which may indicate an
additional award; Lt. Col. and back in the U.S., assigned to (patient) McCaw
Gen. Hosp., Walla Walla, WA, ca. Dec. ‘44; discharged 12 Feb. ‘46; appointed
to board of intercollegiate athletics at Oreg. State College in Jan. ‘58;
managed a General Petroleum distributorship at Medford, OR ca. ‘58; memorial
erected at site of his roadblock in ’92. | | BunaX |
60. | Hunt,
James I. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2-5 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished
Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James I. Hunt (ASN: 0-450276),
United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Anti-Tank Platoon of
Headquarters Company, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces from 2 to 5 December 1942, during the Papuan
Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. While leading his platoon in an attack on Buna
Village, First Lieutenant Hunt, when the attack was checked by hostile fire,
crawled forward without regard to his personal safety and threw a hand
grenade into an enemy machine gun emplacement. Although wounded above the
knee during this action, he continued to lead his platoon in the attack.
Evacuated two days later because of his wound, he voluntarily returned to
duty with his unit the following day, although the bullet had not been
removed and his hospitalization was recommended. First Lieutenant Hunt’s outstanding
leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 1
(January 1, 1943)
Born: 28 April 1914 at Lima, Ohio
Home of record: Lima, Ohio Death: 1 September 2006 Interred: | | BunaX |
61. | *Johnson,
Earl W. Private, U.S. Army
Company M, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23-31 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Earl W. Johnson, United States Army, was awarded
the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
Company M, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against
enemy forces from 23 to 31 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna,
New Guinea. Private Johnson’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of
the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon
himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” His citation was summarized
to state “Johnson “manned a machine gun
in a tree-top during an attack by his company” at Buna. Though painfully
wounded in the face and neck, he continued firing until the engagement ended.
A few days later, Johnson and his squad were pinned down in an advanced
position by “heavy grenading and snipers.” As the squad attempted to
withdraw, he covered them, firing on the Japanese, killing five and enabling
the squad to move to safety. Again Johnson was wounded; a few days later he
died.” That summary was written by Carl M. Becker in his book Miamisburg
in World War II – The Soldiers and Sailors of an American Community.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 1920
Home of record: Miamisburg, Ohio Death: 31 December 1942 Interred: Status: KIA He was born in 1920 at KY, but
he resided at Montgomery Co., OH, when he entered the service on 13 Dec. ’41
at Ft. Thomas, KY; WIA at least twice. | | BunaX |
62. | Johnson,
Maro P. ‘Spud’ Private, U.S. Army
Company A, 107TH Quartermaster Battalion, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress,
July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to
Private Maro P. Johnson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
Company A, 107th Quartermaster Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, near Cape Sudest, New Guinea. When
enemy airplanes attacked and set fire to a number of small ships carrying
United States Army personnel and supplies, Private Johnson courageously
volunteered as a member of a rescue party without regard for his own safety.
With the party, he boarded a small coastal vessel which proceeded to the aid
of personnel from the blazing ships. In spite of repeated enemy bombing and strafing
attacks, the party continued its search for survivors until long after dark.
Private Johnson’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 64
(28 December 1942)
Born: 31 May 1919 at Illinois
Home of record: Illinois Death: 26 February
2002 at Sebring, Florida Interred:
Arlington National Cemetery | | BunaX |
63. | Judd,
Raymond R. Private, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 12 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Raymond R. Judd, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company C, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 12 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at
Tarakena, New Guinea. Private Judd’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and
zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, PVT Judd earned the Distinguished Service Cross for his role
among a small group of volunteers who endeavored, under fire, to string a
guide cable across Konombi Creek near Tarakena, New Guinea, on 10-12 January
1943. The creek’s current was very swift; the guide cable was needed to
enable assault boats to cross the creek and continue the 127TH
Infantry’s advance.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Ohio | | BunaX |
64. | Knode,
Thomas E. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas E.
Knode, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
at Buna, New Guinea. First Lieutenant Knode’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 64
(December 28, 1942)
Born: 17 November 1915 at Soledad, California
Home of record: North Dakota (entered service from Washington D.C.) Attended Augusta Military Academy, Fort Defiance, VA; also
studied at Columbus U. and Temple Business School in D.C.; entered service
Mar. ’42 at Washington D.C. and commissioned 2LT; was offered desk job in
Army radio due to his employment in media before the war, but turned it down;
WIA twice at Buna, 2nd time a bullet shattered bones in his foot; after 11
months in hospitals he was retired as CPT in Nov. ’43; returned home and
worked in media again; father was in Army Air Service during WWI. | | BunaX |
65. | *Lamb,
George F. Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 28 March to 9 April 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class George F. Lamb (ASN:
34378104), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 28 March
1945 to 9 April 1945. Private First Class Lamb’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders:
Born: 1922 at Tennessee
Home of record: Campbell County, Tennessee Death: 9 April 1945 on Luzon, Philippines Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA He entered service 17 Oct. ’42 at Ft. Oglethorpe, GA; SN
34378104; also earned Purple Heart. | added 4 Apr. ‘14 | VVTX |
66. | Leland,
Delos A. Corporal, U.S. Army
Company C, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 19 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Corporal Delos A. Leland, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company C, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces during World War II. Corporal Leland’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
The citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle in a war-time dispatch on 29
May 1943, “When wounded in the shoulder
by a sniper while in a platoon leading an attack on Cape Endaiadere on Nov.
19, he spotted and knocked the sniper out of a tree, then charged again until
wounded in the hip. Unable to walk, he crawled forward and wiped out the machine
gun and its crew with hand grenades.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 29
(1943)
Born: 16 December 1922
Home of record: Marshfield, Wisconsin (sometimes listed as Alexandria,
Louisiana) Death: 6 October 1999 at Alexandria, Louisiana Interred: Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Pineville, Louisiana He was a PFC in Co. C, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Marshfield, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15
Oct. ’40. | added 2 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
67. | *Lincoln,
Boyd L. Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant Boyd L. Lincoln (ASN:
20634803), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 126th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
30 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign in New Guinea.
Sergeant Lincoln’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 1
(1943)
Born: 1920 at Michigan
Home of record: Mecosta County, Michigan Death: 30 November 1942 Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila
American Cemetery Status: MIA Was PFC in Co. E, 126TH Inf., Michigan National
Guard, at Big Rapids, MI, when the 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct.
’40; was also awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. | | BunaX |
68. | Lutjens,
Paul R. Second Lieutenant (then First Sergeant), U.S. Army
Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Sergeant Paul R. Lutjens, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company E, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at
Buna, New Guinea. First Sergeant Lutjens’ intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 62
(1942)
Born:
Home of record: Michigan Was SGT in Co. E, 126TH Inf. (Mich. NG) at Big
Rapids, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; bestowed DSC
for his actions as 1SG on 5 Dec. ’42 near Buna; WIA 5 Dec. ’42; contracted
Malaria; continued service after the war; member of Army Military
Intelligence Hall of Fame; attained rank of COL. | | BunaX |
69. | MacGowan,
John R. Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant John R. MacGowan, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Headquarters Company, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign in New Guinea. Staff Sergeant MacGowan’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According
to Victory in Papua, SSG MacGowen was bestowed with the Distinguished
Service Cross for his participation in hastily organized rescue parties which
saved numerous comrades from burning and sinking Allied supply ships as they
were attacked by Japanese aircraft in the shallows off Cape Sudest on 16
November 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 1
(1 January 1943)
Born:
Home of record: Beloit, Wisconsin Was a PVT in Co. L, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Beloit, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct.
’40. | | BunaX |
70. | MacNab,
Alexander J. Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 10 December 1942 to 3 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Alexander
J. MacNab, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an
armed enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces from 10 December 1942 to 3 January
1943, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Lieutenant Colonel
MacNab’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Vermont | | BunaX |
71. | MacNider,
Hanford ‘Jack’ Brigadier General, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: likely circa 23 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Brigadier General Hanford MacNider, United
States Army, was awarded a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third
Award of the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against
enemy forces during World War II. Brigadier General MacNider’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 12
(1943)
Born: 2 October 1889 Mason City, Iowa
Home of record: Mason City, Iowa Death: 18 February 1968 in Florida Interred: Attended Milton Academy, Milton, MA; graduated Harvard in
’11; joined Iowa National Guard ca. ’16 and served during Mexican Border
Crisis with 2D Iowa Inf.; began WWI as a 1LT in the 9TH
Inf., 2D Div.; arrived in France in Sep. ’17; WIA at St. Mihiel;
ended the war as LTC; after the war back in Iowa, was elected state commander
of the American Legion in ’20; national commander in ’21; President Coolidge
appointed him assistant secretary of war, served from ’25 to ’28 (MAJ Dwight
D. Eisenhower was his executive assistant); President Hoover appointed him envoy
to Canada from ’30 to ’32; returned to active military service after Pearl
Harbor; promoted to BG on 17 Aug. ’42; with G-4 Section at GHQ SWPA until
MacArthur attached him to 32D Div.; MG Harding assigned him as
commander of Warren Force at Buna; WIA 23 Nov. ’42 at Buna; after lengthy
recuperation he returned to duty, but with a different unit; retired from
military in 1951 as a MG; awards include 3 Distinguished Service Crosses,
Distinguished Service Medal, 3 Silver Stars, Legion of Merit, 2 Bronze Stars,
2 Purple Hearts, French Legion of Honor, Croix de Guerre with palm, and the
Italian War Cross; passed away 18 Feb. 1968 while vacationing in FL; some say
he was interred at Elmwood-Saint Joseph Cemetery, Mason City, IA; others say
he was cremated and his ashes scattered in an unknown location. | | BunaX |
72. | Marion,
Lawrence B. Private, U.S. Army
Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Lawrence B. Marion, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 24 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
at Sanananda, New Guinea. Private Marion advanced through heavy machine gun
fire and attacked a section of enemy trenches with hand grenades and enabled
the unit to consolidate its position. His intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, PVT Marion was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross
for his actions on 24 December 1942 in the Sanananda area when he and three
other soldiers assaulted an enemy trench near the track junction and held it
until they could be reinforced. The track junction was the point where the
Killerton Trail met the Soputa-Sanananda Track.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born:
Home of record: Michigan Death: 1988 Interred: He was a CPL in Co. H, 126TH
Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Iona, MI, when the 32D Div.
mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40. | | BunaX |
73. | Martin,
Clarence A. Colonel, U.S. Army
128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 3 December 1942 to 5 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Colonel (Infantry) Clarence A. Martin,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces from 3 December 1942 to 5 January 1943, during
the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea.
Colonel Martin’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 29
(1943)
Born:
Home of record: Columbia, South Carolina Col. assigned to HQ, I Corps, as G-3 until he assumed
command of 128TH Inf. ca. 2 Dec. ‘42; earned OLC to Silver
Star for his actions 2 Dec. ‘42 (first Silver Star in WWI); promoted
Brig. Gen. and asst. div. cdr. ca. Feb. ‘43, asst. div. cdr. and cdr. of
Michaelmas Task Force at Saidor; asst. div. cdr. at Aitape; promoted Maj.
Gen. and assumed command of 31ST Div. ca. Sep. ‘44. | | BunaX |
74. | Matz,
Frederick W. ‘Fred’ Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Fred W.
Matz, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces on 24 December 1942, during the Papuan
Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Second Lieutenant Matz’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” The action was summarized by Robert J.
Doyle, Milwaukee Journal, 26 June 1943, “When his mortar platoon assisting riflemen in
an attack was halted by enemy fire, Matz advanced alone and knocked out the
enemy pillboxes. Though wounded he continued to press forward. Wounded again
when the enemy counterattacked, Matz sent back his men and remained with one
soldier unable to walk. Matz and the other soldier were given up for dead but
reached their own lines Jan. 2 when Buna Mission fell. Matz has recovered
from his wounds.” Some
references list Cpl. William M. Gleason as the other Soldier with Lt.
Matz. Some references state the other
Soldier was Sgt. Frank D. Duket, who reportedly earned the Distinguished
Service Cross during the same event.
The men he ordered back included Sgt. Walter Wachowiak, Cpl.
Harold Dolson, Pfc. Elmer J. Amore, Pvt. William Richman, Pfc. Amore was KIA
a few days later.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders
No. 34 (1943)
Born: 25 November 1921 at Marinette County, Wisconsin
Home of record: Marinette, Wisconsin Death: 3 January 1999 at Marinette, Wisconsin Interred: Arlington National Cemetery Family resided at Peshtigo, WI at ‘30 census; family
resided at Marinette, WI at ‘40 census; graduated high school in ‘40, was
Cpl. in Co. A, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Marinette,
WI, on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20645837; got married on 14 Jan. ‘42 at Alexandria,
LA; commissioned 2d Lt. at some point; transferred to Co. L, 127TH
Inf.; WIA at least twice (once reportedly by friendly artillery on 24 Dec.
’42 near Buna); promoted to 1st Lt.; earned Purple Heart w/OLC; member of
United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Local 1246,
Marinette, WI, received 30-year pin in Jun. ‘77; resided at Menominee, MI at
some point; there was an effort to name the VA Clinic at Menominee, MI, after
him. | | BunaX |
75. | McAllister,
Homer W. Private, U.S. Army
Company A, 107TH Quartermaster Battalion, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Homer W. McAllister, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company A, 107th Quartermaster Battalion, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, during the Papuan
Campaign at Cape Sudest, New Guinea. Private McAllister’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According
to Victory in Papua, Pvt. McAllister was bestowed with the Distinguished
Service Cross for his participation in hastily organized rescue parties which
saved numerous comrades from burning and sinking Allied supply ships as they
were attacked by Japanese aircraft in the shallows off Cape Sudest on 16
November 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 64
(28 December 1942)
Born:
Home of record: South Carolina | | BunaX |
76. | McCampbell,
Robert P. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
2D Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert P.
McCampbell, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an
armed enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 27 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. First Lieutenant McCampbell’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Nebraska | | BunaX |
77. | McCreary,
Melvin Leslie Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Division Artillery, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery)
Melvin L. McCreary, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters, Division Artillery,
32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 24 December 1942,
during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. While directing mortar fire
from observation posts in the front lines, Lieutenant Colonel McCreary
entered and remained at these posts, which were under direct enemy fire, with
complete disregard for his personal safety. When wounded by a fragment from
an enemy mortar shell, Lieutenant Colonel McCreary returned to his
observation post after having the wound bandaged and remained there for about
six hours until his evacuation was ordered. Lieutenant Colonel McCreary’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 2
(1943)
Born: 8 July 1892 at Leesport, Ohio
Home of record: Youngstown, Ohio Death: 29 March 1983 at Los Angeles, California Interred: Forest Lawn Memorial Park (Hollywood Hills), Los
Angeles, California Attended College of Law at Ohio State U. ca. ’16; lived in
Freeport, OH, when he entered service; enlisted in Co. L, 7TH Ohio
Inf. (Ohio National Guard) 13 Jul. ’14; commissioned 2LT of Arty. 15 Aug.
’17; 1LT with 8TH FA Regt. during WWI; served overseas with AEF 18
Aug. ’18 to 29 Jul. ’19; joined RA after war; CPT in 3D FA Regt.
at Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN, in ’24; was Army Instructor assigned to the
128TH Inf. (WNG) ca. 1920-30; was Army Instructor assigned to WNG
artillery units in Milwaukee for 3 years before the war; Cdr. of 121ST
FA Bn. after Div. was triangularized Feb. ’42; became Cdr. of DIVARTY early
Dec. ’42. | | BunaX |
78. | McDonough,
Bart T. Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technician Fifth Grade Bart T.
McDonough, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an
armed enemy while serving with Company A, 114th Engineer Combat Battalion,
32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 December 1942,
during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Technician Fifth Grade
McDonough’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” According to Victory in Papua, Tec. 5
McDonough was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for his role in
attempting to repair a bridge, under fire, vital to the 127TH Infantry’s attack on Buna Mission from
Musita Island on 28 December 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 11
(January 22, 1943)
Born: 1909 at Massachusetts
Home of record: Reading, Massachusetts | | BunaX |
79. | McGee,
Robert R. Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company L, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23 to 28 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant Robert R. McGee, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company L, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces from 23 to 28 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
at Sanananda, New Guinea. Sergeant McGee’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Michigan Was a CPL in Co. L, 126TH
Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI, when the 32D
Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40. | | BunaX |
80. | Melanson,
Arthur J., Jr. Private, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Arthur Melanson, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company A, 114th Engineer Combat Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 28 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
at Buna, New Guinea. Private Melanson’s intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, PVT Melanson was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross
for his role in attempting to repair a bridge, under fire, vital to the 127TH Infantry’s attack on Buna Mission from
Musita Island on 28 December 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Strategic Forces in Europe, General Orders
No. 25 (1944)
Born: 30 September 1920 at
Massachusetts
Home of record: Lynn, Massachusetts Death: 20 January
1988 Interred: Pine
Grove Cemetery, Lynn, Massachusetts Was a member of the
Massachusetts National Guard. | | BunaX |
81. | Meyer,
Charles Robert ‘Monk’ Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 2D Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 May 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel Charles Robert Meyer
(ASN: 0-20762), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 May 1945. Lieutenant Colonel Meyer’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 51
(1945)
Born: 1 May 1911 at U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York
Home of record: Death: 11 August
2001 Interred: U.S.
Military Academy Cemetery at West Point, New York Son of Col. and Mrs. C. B.
Meyer; graduated
USMA at West Point, Class of ‘37;
lettered in lacrosse, football, and basketball (famous for his football skills
at West Point, All-American); served with 35TH Inf., Schofield
Barracks, HI, Jun. ‘39-Jun. ‘42; assigned Cdr., 2D Bn., 127TH
Inf. in Jul. ‘44; awarded Bronze Star for his actions at Limon, Leyte;
slightly WIA by shrapnel at Leyte; according to Red Arrow Men, he was
WIA while personally attacking a Japanese-held cave on Luzon with grenades
and TNT (this may be the basis for his DSC); awarded 2 Silver
Stars ca. ‘45; earned at least 2 Purple Hearts during WWII; assigned
Asst. G-3, HQ, Sixth Army, in Jun. ‘45; returned to U.S. in ‘46 and assigned
as instructor at Infantry School, Ft. Benning, GA; assigned as Infantry
Advisor and Training Officer in Guatemala; assigned to Armed Forces Staff
College; assigned to Office of Military Assistance, Office of Secretary of
Defense, Washington, D.C.; also served in Korea and Vietnam; assigned Dep. CG
for logistical support at Ft. Ord, CA ca. Jan. ‘67; awarded 2 DSMs as Brig.
Gen. in ‘60s. | added 3 Feb. ‘13 | VVTX |
82. | Milby,
Raymond Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 12 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Raymond Milby, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company C, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 12 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at
Tarakena, New Guinea. Private First Class Milby’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, PFC Milby earned the Distinguished Service Cross for his role
among a small group of volunteers who endeavored, under fire, to string a
guide cable across Konombi Creek near Tarakena, New Guinea, on 10-12 January
1943. The creek’s current was very swift; the guide cable was needed to
enable assault boats to cross the creek and continue the 127TH
Infantry’s advance.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born: 1915 at Kentucky
Home of record: Kentucky Death: 11 October
2005 at Louisville, Kentucky Interred:
Evergreen Cemetery, Louisville, Kentucky He entered the service 29 Nov.
’41 at Ft. Benjamin Harrison IN; his other awards include the Bronze Star and
at least one Purple Heart. | | BunaX |
83. | Miljatovich,
Milan John Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Milan J. Miljatovich,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company K, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Tarakena, New Guinea. Staff Sergeant Miljatovich’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” The citation was
summarized by Robert J. Doyle, Milwaukee Journal, 26 June 1943, “Miljatovich commanded a platoon which was
ordered to cross a creek in small canvas boats. The men were to be covered by
an artillery barrage on enemy emplacements. Through error the boats were
misdirected, and when Miljatovich neared the proper landing point the barrage
had stopped. Japanese riflemen and machine gunners opened fire at close
range. Miljatovich climbed into another boat when his leading boat sank and
led his platoon into enemy fire. All boats were sunk and many men wounded.
Miljatovich calmly reorganized his men while they swam in the creek and led
them back to safety.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born: 13 December 1918
Home of record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin Death: 24 November 1984 Interred: Wood National Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin PVT in Co. K, 127TH Inf. at Milwaukee, WI, when
32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40. | | BunaX |
84. | *Mitchell,
Harold L. Corporal, U.S. Army
Company H, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 7 to 9 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Corporal Harold L. Mitchell, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company H, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces from 7 to 9 December 1942, during the Papuan
Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Corporal Mitchell’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, CPL Mitchell was bestowed
with the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions at “Bottcher’s Corner”
near Buna from 7 to 9 December 1942. On 7 December he detected a looming
Japanese attack; singlehandedly foiled their attempt, and alerted his
comrades. When the enemy attacked later, they were handily repulsed. On 9 December
he captured a Japanese prisoner and brought him in for interrogation.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 3
(1943)
Born: 5 May 1918
Home of record: Ionia, Michigan Death: 26 December
1942 in New Guinea Interred: Highland
Park Cemetery, Ionia, Michigan Status: DOW He enlisted as a PVT in Co. H,
126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Ionia, MI, on 7 Jun. ’36;
he mobilized with that unit on 15 Oct. ’40; he was promoted to SSG at some
point; he was seriously WIA 19 Dec. ’42 during an attack on the Triangle; he
was awarded his DSC while he was in the hospital; his other awards include
the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and CIB. | | BunaX |
85. | *Mittleberger, Earl Private
First Class, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Earl Mittleberger (ASN:
37039378), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 114th
Engineer Combat Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 28 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea.
Private Mittleberger’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of
the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon
himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According
to Victory in Papua, PFC Mittleberger was posthumously bestowed with the
Distinguished Service Cross for his role, at the cost of his life, in
attempting to repair a bridge, under fire, vital to the 127TH Infantry’s attack on Buna Mission from Musita Island on 28 December 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 10
(1943)
Born:
Home of record: Scott County, Iowa Death:
28 December 1942 Interred:
Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA | | BunaX |
86. | *Mullens,
Donald W. Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 March 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Donald W. Mullens
(ASN: 37527078), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 126th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
21 March 1945. Private First Class Mullens’ intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 204
(1945)
Born: 1923 at Kansas
Home of record: Wyandotte County, Kansas Death: 21 March 1945 on Luzon, Philippines Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA He entered service 25 May ’43 at
Ft. Leavenworth, KS; SN 37527078; also earned Purple Heart w/2 OLCs. | added 26 Jun. ‘13 | VVTX |
87. | Myers,
Cloyd G. Private, U.S. Army
Company H, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Cloyd G. Myers, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company H, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Cape
Sudest, New Guinea. Private Myers’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in
Papua, Pvt. Myers was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for
his participation in hastily organized rescue parties which saved numerous
comrades from burning and sinking Allied supply ships as they were attacked
by Japanese aircraft in the shallows off Cape Sudest on 16 November 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 62
(1942)
Born: 13 June 1920
Home of record: McCook or Culbertson, Nebraska Death: 25 November
2001 Interred: Dallas Cemetery,
Dallas, Oregon Family believes he also earned
the Silver
Star; other awards include Bronze Star and Purple Heart; brother Bernard
W. has been MIA in Luxembourg since 8 Feb. ‘45. | | BunaX |
88. | Nummer,
Erwin Joseph First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) Erwin J.
Nummer (ASN: 0-402981), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 30
November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. First
Lieutenant Nummer’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion
to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 3
(6 Jan. 1943)
Born: 14 December 1908 at Lowell, Michigan
Home of record: Michigan Death: 16 December 1944 on Leyte Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA Was SGT in Service Co., 126TH Inf. (Mich. NG)
at Grand Rapids, MI, when Div. was mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; WIA 30 Nov. ’42
near Buna; KIA 16 Dec. ’44 as Cdr. of Co. H on Leyte; two brothers served
during the war, one in France and the other in South Pacific. | | BunaX |
89. | Parks,
Steve W. Private, U.S. Army
Company D, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Steve W. Parks, United States Army,
was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
Company D, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against
enemy forces on 20 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New
Guinea. Private Parks’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” A dispatch from overseas by
war correspondent Robert J. Doyle printed in the Milwaukee Journal on
3 Jul. ’43 summarized his actions thusly: “On
Dec. 20, Parks was in a patrol attempting to cross a bridge [over Simemi
Creek] near Buna Mission under
extremely heavy enemy fire. When the patrol was forced to withdraw, Parks
went back despite almost certain death to rescue a comrade who was wounded
and lying directly in the lane of enemy machine gun fire. Parks dragged the
wounded man to safety and administered first aid.” A similar account of
the action was described in Victory in Papua.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born: 1917 at Wisconsin
Home of record: Cameron, Wisconsin He was a PVT in Co. D, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Rice Lake, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15
Oct. ’40. | updated 1 May ‘13 | BunaX |
90. | Peabody,
Herbert Gale First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation: “The
President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress,
July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to
First Lieutenant (Infantry) Herbert G. Peabody (ASN: 0-386476), United States
Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations
against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, near Cape
Sudest, New Guinea. When enemy airplanes attacked and set fire to four small
ships carrying United States Army personnel and supplies, First Lieutenant
Peabody called for volunteers to attempt a rescue. With four enlisted men, he
boarded a small coastal vessel and ordered it to proceed to the blazing
vessels. In spite of repeated enemy bombing and strafing and without regard
to his personal safety, he continued the search for survivors until long
after dark. First Lieutenant Peabody’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and
zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 64 (28 December 1942)
Born: 31 March 1919
Home of record: Vermont Death: 22 October 1993 Interred: Fort Benning Post Cemetery, Fort Benning,
Georgia Peabody,
Herbert Gale First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation: “The
President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress,
July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu
of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant
(Infantry) Herbert G. Peabody (ASN: 0-386476), United States Army, for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, near Buna, New Guinea. When a rifle
company patrol broke through the enemy lines and established itself on the
beach between Buna Village and Buna Station, the only supply route to it lay
through the hostile position. First Lieutenant Peabody led a carrying party
forward in an effort to replenish the ammunition of the patrol. When its
advance was discovered, the party was checked by enemy mortar fire and by
fire from snipers. Gathering his men together, First Lieutenant Peabody
crawled forward with them through the enemy position to the patrol. The
ammunition thus delivered made possible the holding, in spite of repeated
enemy counterattacks, of this key point cutting hostile communication lines.
First Lieutenant Peabody’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 64 (28 December 1942)
Born: 31 March 1919
Home of record: Vermont Death: 22 October 1993 Interred: Fort Benning Post Cemetery, Fort Benning,
Georgia He participated in ROTC at Wofford College, Spartanburg,
SC, and graduated Class of ’40; also served in Korea and Vietnam; retired
from the Army as a COL. | updated 4 May ‘13 | BunaX BunaX |
91. | Pederson,
Harold O. Private, U.S. Army
Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Harold O. Pederson, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 24 December 1942. Private Pederson’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
According to Victory in Papua, PVT Pederson was bestowed with the
Distinguished Service Cross for his actions on 24 December 1942 in the
Sanananda area when he and three other soldiers assaulted an enemy trench
near the track junction and held it until they could be reinforced. The track
junction was the point where the Killerton Trail met the Soputa-Sanananda
Track.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born:
Home of record: Ohio | | BunaX |
92. | Peterson,
Marvin M. Private, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 12 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Marvin M. Peterson, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company C, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 12 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at
Tarakena, New Guinea. Private Peterson’s intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” A dispatch from overseas by war
correspondent Robert J. Doyle printed in the Milwaukee Journal on 3
Jul. ‘43 summarized his actions thusly: “Peterson
was part of a force advancing from the Buna area along the coast against the
last strong Japanese positions in Papua.
The force had to cross the swift Konombi river [near Tarakena] Jan. 21 to dislodge enemy positions on the
opposite bank. Peterson and three
others volunteered to swim the river in broad daylight with enemy guns
trained on them. Wearing only shorts
and carrying pistols and hand grenades, the four swam the rain swollen river
and fastened a rope which enabled a platoon to cross and establish a
bridgehead.” A similar account of
the action was described in Victory in Papua.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born: 8 May 1921 at Oconto Falls, Wisconsin
Home of record: Oconto Falls, Wisconsin Death: 27 July 1944 near Aitape, New Guinea Interred: Woodlawn Cemetery, Oconto Falls, Wisconsin Status: KIA Father was Danish immigrant and served with HQ Co., 341ST
Inf., 86TH Div. during WWI; graduated Oconto Falls H.S. in ‘39 or
‘40; SN 20646320; was Pvt. in Co. C, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Oconto, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; earned DSC for his actions to
string a guide rope across the Konombi River near Tarakena, New Guinea, on 12
Jan. ‘43; earned Silver
Star for his courage and leadership at an outpost along the
Driniumor River near Aitape, New Guinea, on 27 Jul. ‘44; KIA later that day
while trying to save a comrade; also earned Purple Heart. | updated 18 Dec. ‘13 | BunaX |
93. | Pieh,
Richard J. First Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company B, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division (unit is presumed, that is unit he was with when he earned Silver
Star at Buna)
Date of Action: 20 December 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Sergeant Richard J. Pieh, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in
action against enemy forces on 20 December 1944. First Sergeant Pieh’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.” According to Red Arrow Men, “Sgt. Pieh’s company attacked and was
stopped short by Japs in more than 50 fortified positions. Pieh grabbed a machine gun and advanced
boldly on the Japs. His entire company
was inspired, and they smashed the Japs in front of them, consolidating their
lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 110 (1945)
Born: 28 January 1922 at Michigan
Home of record: Deerfield, Michigan Death: 31 October 1993 (1995) Interred: Deerfield Township Cemetery, Deerfield, Michigan He was Pvt. in Co. B, 126TH
Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Adrian, MI, when 32D Div.
mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634268; married a woman from Ponchatoula, LA;
Cpl. by Sep. ‘42; earned Silver
Star for his actions as Sgt. and member of patrol with S. Sgt. Elmer R.
Buchanan on 8 Dec. ‘42 at ‘New Strip’ near Buna, New Guinea; also cited in 32D
Div. GO No. 52 (1943), which may indicate an additional award; brother Henry
also served in Army during WWII; married on 5 Feb. ‘47, father of 2; son
Robert J. served with Army in Vietnam. | added 19 Feb. ‘13 | LeyteX |
94. | Price,
Donald R. Private First Class, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 107TH Quartermaster Battalion, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished
Service Cross to Private First Class Donald R. Price, United States Army, for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 107th Quartermaster Battalion,
32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 November 1942,
near Cape Sudest, New Guinea. When enemy airplanes attacked and set fire to a
number of small ships carrying United States Army personnel and supplies,
Private First Class Price courageously volunteered as a member of a rescue
party, without regard for his own safety. With the party, he boarded a small
coastal vessel which proceeded to the aid of personnel from the blazing
ships. In spite of repeated enemy bombing and strafing attacks, the party
continued its search for survivors until long after dark. Private First Class
Price’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 64 (28 December 1942)
Born: 1920 at Wisconsin
Home of record: Wisconsin He was a PVT in Co. F, 107TH QM Regt.,
Wisconsin National Guard, at Whitewater, WI, when 32D Div.
mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40. | | BunaX |
95. | *Rehak,
John F, Jr. Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant John F. Rehak, Jr. (ASN: 20646676),
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 127th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
20 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Staff
Sergeant Rehak’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, SSG Rehak was posthumously bestowed with the Distinguished
Service Cross for his efforts to lead an attack against a Japanese bunker in
the Triangle at Buna on 20 December 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 4 (10 January 1943)
Born: 8 January 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of record: Manitowoc, Wisconsin Death: 20 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc, Wisconsin Status: KIA He was a PFC in Co. E, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Manitowoc, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15
Oct. ’40. | added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
96. | *Richards,
William H. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company G, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 November 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) William H.
Richards (ASN: 0-1291008), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with
military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 21 November 1944. First Lieutenant
Richards’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at
the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces
of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 87 (1945)
Born:
Home of record: Lake County, Indiana Death: 22 November 1944 near Colasian, Leyte, Philippines Interred: Status: KIA He was likely an enlisted man when he first entered the
service. The enlistment record for a man of the same name states: born 1916
at PA; resided at Lake Co., IN; entered service 25 Jun. ’41 at Ft. Benjamin
Harrison, IN; SN 35162601. | added 6 Mar. ‘14 | LeyteX |
97. | *Rini,
Daniel F. Corporal, U.S. Army
Company E, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Corporal Daniel F. Rini (ASN: 35005386),
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 128th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
16 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Corporal
Rini’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the
cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in
Papua, CPL Rini was posthumously bestowed with the Distinguished Service
Cross for his efforts to eliminate a key Japanese bunker near the Coconut
Grove at Buna on 16 December 1942. His actions were summarized by Murlin
Spencer in a war-time dispatch from overseas on 3 July 1943 and printed in
the Youngstown Vindicator on 4 July 1943, “Corporal Rini, one of Ohio’s outstanding heroes, was killed in
action and his DSC was awarded posthumously. His act of heroism came on a hot
December day near Buna. He volunteered to go along with a patrol attacking a
strongly fortified Japanese machine-gun emplacement which had been holding up
an attack by three companies of Americans. When his patrol was halted by
machine-gun fire, Corporal Rini went ahead alone and destroyed the
emplacement by throwing grenades into the loopholes of the fortified
position. He was killed later during the mopping up action.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 9 (19 January 1943)
Born: 10 December 1917
Home of record: Wellsville, Ohio Death: 16 December 1942 Interred: St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Wellsville, Ohio Status: KIA | updated 29 Apr. ’13; added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
98. | *Ross,
Calvin E. Private, U.S. Army
Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 15 & 20 March 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Calvin E. Ross (ASN: 39474369),
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 127th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
15 and 20 March 1945. Private Ross’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and
zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No.
370 (1945)
Born: 1924 at Washington
Home of record: Chewelah, Washington Death: 20 March 1945 Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila
American Cemetery Status: MIA, presumed KIA He graduated Chewelah H. S. in ’43; entered service 25
Apr. ’44 at Ft. Lewis, WA; SN 39474369; also earned Bronze Star and Purple
Heart; sister also served, WAAC. | added 19 Dec. ‘13 | VVTX |
99. | Rossman,
Edward R. Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company L, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private First Class Edward R. Rossman,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with Company L, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 24 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Sanananda, New Guinea. Private First Class Rossman’s
intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” According to Victory in Papua, PFC Rossman was bestowed
with the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions on 24 December 1942 in
the Sanananda area when he and three other soldiers assaulted an enemy trench
near the track junction and held it until they could be reinforced. The track
junction was the point where the Killerton Trail met the Soputa-Sanananda
Track.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born: 11 August 1914 at Tell
City, Indiana
Home of record: Tell City, Indiana Death: 21 March
1999 at Indianapolis, Indiana Interred: | added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
100. | Runnoe,
Donald Frank Captain, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Donald F. Runnoe,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Company in the 1st
Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against
enemy forces on 2 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New
Guinea. Captain Runnoe’s outstanding
leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” The citation was
summarized by Robert J. Doyle, of the Milwaukee Journal, in a war-time
dispatch from overseas on 9 March 1943, “Maj.
Runnoe received the [Distinguished Service Cross] for gallantry in the capture of Buna Mission Jan. 2. When Maj. Edmund Schroeder, Oconto, Wis.,
was fatally wounded while directing the attack at the front, Maj. Runnoe,
then a captain, came forward from the command post through heavy enemy fire
to direct the attack that led a few minutes later to the fall of Buna
Mission.” Mr. Doyle stated that
Maj. Runnoe received the Silver Star but he actually received the
Distinguished Service Cross for this particular event. It may have been a simple mistake on Mr.
Doyle’s part or it may indicate that Maj. Runnoe was recommended for the
Silver Star but the award was upgraded to the Distinguished Service
Cross. Another dispatch from overseas
by Mr. Doyle on 26 Jun. ’43 gave a similar account of the event and
identified the decoration as the Distinguished Service Cross.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born: 5 April 1915 at Greenleaf, Wisconsin
Home of record: Marinette, Wisconsin Death: 19 February 1959 at Marinette, Wisconsin Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Menominee, Michigan Graduated Our Lady of Lourdes H. S.; attended Milwaukee
School of Engineering; married, father of 6; enlisted in Co. A, 127TH
Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Marinette, WI, reportedly on 22 Nov. ‘30
at age 15; commissioned 2d Lt. 16 Aug. ‘40; mobilized with the unit on 15
Oct. ‘40; earned Silver
Star for his actions 8 Jan. ‘43 near Tarakena, New Guinea; WIA near Buna,
New Guinea; promoted to Maj. sometime after Buna; promoted Lt. Col. in ‘44;
also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart (some references state Bronze Star
w/OLC and Purple Heart, others state Bronze Star and Purple Heart w/OLC);
discharged 24 Dec. ‘45; at least 3 brothers also served during WWII; served
in post-war Wis. Nat. Guard; Lt. Col. and XO, 127TH Inf.; Col. and
Cdr. of 127TH Inf.; worked as maintenance engineer at Marinette
Paper Co.; member of American Legion, VFW, Catholic War Veterans, St. Anthony
Church. | updated 26 Apr. ‘13 | BunaX |
101. | Schlessman,
Learville Newton Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
2D Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 May 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technical Sergeant Learville N. Schlessman,
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 2d Battalion, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d
Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 May 1945. Technical Sergeant Schlessman’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” His citation, summarized in Neosho Daily
News and other newspapers on 27 Jun. ‘45, stated: “Sergeant Schhlessman’s company was moving out for an attack on a
hill position and the sergeant had been ordered to remain behind for
treatment for [malaria] fever. He soon heard his company had struck some
rough going and upon hearing that, decided his comrades needed
“reinforcements.” So he joined his
platoon, seizing an automatic rifle [from a wounded comrade], picked off six Japs and sealed 10 caves
in which the Nips were hiding. He then
started shooting again and after the company had taken its objective,
Sergeant Schlessman had a score of 21 Japs.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No.
315 (1945)
Born: 4 March 1921 at Missouri
Home of record: Neosho, Missouri Death: 21 February 1986 Interred: Tracy Cemetery, Anderson or Pineville, Missouri Married, father of at least 2; entered service 24 Jul. ‘42
at Jefferson Barracks, MO; SN 37373830; trained at Camp Butner, NC; overseas
in Feb. ‘43; earned Silver
Star for his actions at Leyte, Philippines; also earned Purple Heart,
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/3 service stars, Philippine Liberation Medal
w/1 service star, CIB; received his DSC during a ceremony at Camp Crowder, MO
on 20 Apr. ‘46. | added 8 Jan. ‘13 | VVTX |
102. | *Schroeder,
Edmund R. Major, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) to Major (Infantry) Edmund R. Schroeder (ASN: 0-301712),
United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with 127th Infantry Regiment,
32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 27 December 1942,
during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. With complete disregard for his own safety,
Major Schroeder proceeded as a member of a patrol under heavy enemy machine
gun and sniper fire through swamps and located the command post of an isolated
company that had been cut off from the remainder of our troops. Through his courageous personal effort he
was able to rescue these men from a swamp and reorganize them for continued
attacks. His gallant example of
perseverance inspite of all difficulties served as an inspiration to his
men. Major Schroeder was seriously
wounded during this action and died as a result of his wounds. Major Schroeder’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 14 (1943)
Born: 27 June 1910
Home of record: Oconto, Wisconsin Death: 2 January 1943 near Buna, New Guinea Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Oconto, Wisconsin Status: KIA Married, father of 3, 535
Washington, Oconto, WI; commissioned 2d Lt., Co. C, 127TH Inf.,
Wis. Nat. Guard, Oconto, WI on 25 Aug. ‘32; promoted 1st Lt. on 28 May ‘35;
Capt. and Cdr. of the unit when mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN O-301712;
succeeded Lt. Col. William A. Draheim as Cdr. of 1ST Bn., 127TH
Inf. on 25 Dec. ‘42 near Buna, New Guinea; earned DSC for his actions 27 Dec.
‘42 at Buna; KIA 2 Jan. ‘43, during the attack which evicted the Japanese
from Buna Mission, shot in the head by Japanese sniper ca. 1000 hours,
evacuated to 3D Port. Hosp., where he died; the Quarterly
Report of History of Medical Activities of the 3rd Port. Hosp., for the
period of 1 Jan. ‘43 to 31 Mar. ‘43 offers a blunt med. description of
his injuries and, more importantly, a poignant tribute to his character, “We
had nine deaths among this group which were operated on. One head wound died nine
hours after operation. The bullet had entered his motor area, bisected his
optic nerve and proceeded out of his head at the base of the nose. The
patient was a Major [Edmund R.] Schroeder who was in command of the 1st Bn.
of the 127th Inf. After the Mission fell, he was struck by a sniper’s bullet.
He remained conscious long enough to turn his command over and collect his
belongings in spite of being blind. To us, he was the greatest hero of that
campaign because he always led his men in every undertaking and was very
courageous.”; succeeded by Capt. Donald F. Runnoe. | | BunaX |
103. | Schwartz,
Paul L. Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Paul L.
Schwartz, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division,
in action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
at Buna, New Guinea. Second Lieutenant
Schwartz’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” Papuan
Campaign and Hall of Valor state that 2d Lt. Schwartz earned the DSC for
his actions on 5 Dec. ‘42, which was an attack on Buna Village. Several other references state or imply
that he earned it for leading a 14- or 15-man patrol to attack Tarakena, New
Guinea (some references state Siwori Village). The patrol started out on 18 Dec. and
engaged several Japanese patrols on 18 and 19 Dec. between Siwori and
Tarakena. Reinforced with 20 more men,
they reached Tarakena on 20 Dec., but were pushed back. Reinforced with 32 more men, they
re-entered the village later that day but were again forced out in the early
hours of 21 Dec. After 2d Lt. Schwartz
was WIA that day, 1st
Lt. James R. Griffith assumed command.
After 1st Lt. Griffith was WIA later that day, 1st Lt. Louis A.
Chagnon assumed command. Sergt. Lester
L. Sherman and Pfc. Roland G. Acheson were key members of that patrol.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 1 (1943)
Born: circa 1918 or 1919 at New Jersey
Home of record: Syracuse, New York Jewish; graduated from Syracuse U.; worked as an
accountant; entered service as Pvt. at Syracuse, NY on 16 Jan. ‘41; SN
32025763; trained at Camp Upton, NY; assigned to an Inf. division at Ft.
Bragg, NC; completed Inf. OCS at Ft. Benning, GA Feb.-May ‘42; commissioned
2d Lt.; earned Silver
Star for his actions 2 Dec. ‘42 during attack on Buna Village, New
Guinea; assisted by T. Sgt. Dale R. Cope and Corp. Rex R. Leland in directing
fire against Japanese machine gun and mortar placements and snipers ca. 29
Nov. to 5 Dec. ‘42 near Buna Village, Leland earned Silver Star 29 Nov. to 5
Dec. and was KIA 5 Dec. ‘42; WIA ca. 5 Dec. ‘42; seriously WIA 21 Dec. (22
Dec.) ‘42; family notified 5 Jan. ‘43; DSC citation was broadcast on radio 12
Jan. ‘43. | | BunaX |
104. | *Serrahn,
Richard F. (W.) Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 10 March 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technical Sergeant Richard F. Serrahn
(ASN: 36206886), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 March 1945, at Luzon,
Philippine Islands. Technical Sergeant
Serrahn’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at
the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces
of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” Most of the actual citation was printed in
the Daily Globe (Ironwood, MI) on
13 Sep. ’45: “For extraordinary heroism
in action 10 March 1945. While holding
a hill a platoon of the 127th Infantry regiment attacked before dawn by two
companies of Japanese using rifles and machine guns, hand grenades, land
mines and TNT charges. The forward,
positions were overrun and Sgt. Serrahn was blown from his foxhole by a TNT
explosion. Though suffering from
concussion, he quickly returned to his emplacement, boldly stood up amidst
fire from a light machine gun and neutralized the weapon and its two man
crew. Then discovering a seriously wounded
comrade, he left cover, moved 10 yards through a concentration of fire and
exploding grenades and assisted the man back to comparative safety. Returning to resume the exchange of heavy
fire with the enemy, he killed three more Japanese. He then saw another critically wounded
soldier and, again disregarding his own safety, moved through 10 yards of
intense fire and brought the wounded man back to cover. During most of the four hour fight, Sgt.
Serrahn fought a single-handedly from his foxhole. However, whenever circumstances permitted,
he left his position, and risking his life at every step, carried ammunition
to other positions on his flank despite the rifle and machine gun fire,
exploding grenades and TNT bursts. By
his outstanding heroism and great personal bravery, Sgt. Serrahn rescued two
wounded comrades and greatly assisted his fellow soldiers in repelling an
enemy attack. He was killed in action
23 April 1945.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No.
61 (1945)
Born: 6 October 1919 at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
Home of record: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Death: 23 April 1945 at Luzon, Philippines Interred: Bayside
Cemetery, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Status: KIA Son of Henry and Matilda (Linstedt) Serrahan, Saxon, WI;
worked as commercial fisherman with his father out of Saxon Harbor; also had
ties to Algoma, WI; entered service from Iron Co. at Milwaukee, WI on 10 Apr.
‘41; “recuperating in a hospital on New Guinea” ca. Mar. ‘43 (WIA at Buna?);
brother served during WWII, T. Sgt. Charles, Army, ETO, Bronze Star; brother
served during WWII, Howard, Navy, Southwest Pacific; brother served during
WWII, Fritz (Francis), Merchant Marine, Pacific; half-brother served during
WWII (half-brother died during WWII), Lt. (j.g.) Tony Calager, Navy, KIA 26
Mar. ’45. | added 13 Aug. ‘18 | VVTX |
105. | *Shaw,
Herman Tate Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 December 1942 to 8 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant Herman T. Shaw (ASN: 38062261),
United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 127th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from
25 December 1942 to [8] January
1943, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Sergeant Shaw’s intrepid actions, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the
highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect
great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States
Army.” According to Victory in Papua, S. Sgt. Shaw earned
the DSC, in part, for his efforts as the platoon leader for the lead platoon
in Company F’s part in the capture of Tarakena, New Guinea, on 8 January
1943. The Waxahatchie Daily Light summarized his citation thusly on 5 Apr.
’43: “He led his platoon with
conspicuous gallantry over a period of ten days. In leading the platoon during attacks on
Tarakena he repeatedly moved in advance of the platoon. By exposing himself to enemy fire to gain
information and by personal bravery in removing wounded men to places of
safety he set an example of courage and leadership in his command. He was killed while leading a patrol from
an adjoining company against enemy automatic weapons which were holding up
the advance of his command.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 29 (30 March 1943)
Born: 3 September 1914 near
Ennis, Texas
Home of record: Waxahachie, Texas Death: 8 January 1943 at Tarakena, New Guinea Interred: Myrtle
Cemetery, Ennis, Texas Status: KIA Son of William Thomas ‘W. T.’ and Lena Lee (Prestidge) Shaw,
207 W. Decatur St., Ennis, TX; married; worked for Scott Oil Co.; entered
service 3 Dec. ‘41 at Ft. Sill, OK; SN 38062261; trained at Camp Wolters, Ft.
Devens, Ft. Ord; also earned Purple Heart. | added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
106. | Smith,
Herbert M. Major, U.S. Army
2D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 7 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Major (Infantry) Herbert M. Smith, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 7 December 1942, during Papuan Campaign at Buna, New
Guinea. Major Smith’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion
to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United
States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and
the United States Army.” A dispatch from overseas by war
correspondent Robert J. Doyle printed in the Milwaukee Journal on 3
Jul. ’43 summarized his actions thusly: “Col.
Smith, then a major, personally led a fierce attack on Buna village Dec. 7
after a hail of enemy bullets and grenades had pinned down his men. He
recovered from wounds received in the attack.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Neillsville,
Wisconsin MAJ with Service Co., 128TH
Inf. at Neillsville, WI, on 15 Oct. ’40; transferred to 126TH Inf.
ca. Jan. ’42 at Camp Livingston; assumed command of 2D Bn., 126TH
Inf., on 25 Oct. ’42 during march over Owen Stanley Mountains; seriously WIA
7 Dec. ’42 at Buna. | updated 1 May ‘13 | BunaX |
107. | Snyder,
Gordon C. Corporal, U.S. Army
Company I, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Corporal Gordon C. Snyder, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company I, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign in New
Guinea. Corporal Snyder’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in
Papua, CPL Snyder was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for
his participation in hastily organized rescue parties which saved numerous
comrades from burning and sinking Allied supply ships as they were attacked
by Japanese aircraft in the shallows off Cape Sudest on 16 November 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 1 (1 January 1943)
Born:
Home of record: Michigan | added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
108. | Sprague,
Lawrence F. Private, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 12 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Lawrence F. Sprague, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company C, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 12 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at
Tarakena, New Guinea. Private Sprague’s intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, PVT Sprague earned the Distinguished Service Cross for his role
among a small group of volunteers who endeavored, under fire, to string a
guide cable across Konombi Creek near Tarakena, New Guinea, on 10-12 January
1943. The creek’s current was very swift; the guide cable was needed to
enable assault boats to cross the creek and continue the 127TH
Infantry’s advance.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 36 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Ohio | added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
109. | Squires,
Edward G. Private, U.S. Army
Company H, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private Edward G. Squires, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company H, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 28 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna,
New Guinea. Private Squires’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in
Papua, PVT Squires was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for
his role in attempting to repair a bridge, under fire, vital to the 127TH Infantry’s attack on Buna Mission from
Musita Island on 28 December 1942.
General
Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 11 (January
22, 1943)
Born: 16 April 1923 at West
Virginia
Home of record: Akron, Ohio Death: 25 May 2012
at Akron, Ohio Interred: Ohio
Western Reserve National Cemetery, Rittman, Ohio | | BunaX |
110. | Stallman,
Robert J., Jr. First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 March 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert J.
Stallman, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed
enemy, in action against enemy forces on 18 March 1945. First Lieutenant Stallman’s intrepid
actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No.
54 (1945)
Born: 19 October 1919 at Montana
Home of record: Minneapolis, Minnesota Death: 23 January 2005 Interred: Fort
Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota Earned
Silver
Star, possibly for his actions at Leyte, Philippines; earned DSC for his actions 18 Mar. ’45 at Luzon, Philippines; assumed cmd. of Co. K, 127TH
Inf., as 1st Lt., ca. beginning of May ‘45 at Luzon, Philippines; attained
rank of Maj.; married, father of 7. | added 5 Dec. ‘13 | VVTX |
111. | *Steger,
Reuben J. First Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “First Sergeant Reuben J. Steger (ASN:
20649169), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 128th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
21 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign in New Guinea. First Sergeant
Steger’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at
the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces
of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders
No. 1 (1943)
Born: 27 June 1917 at Marshfield, Wisconsin
Home of record: Marshfield, Wisconsin Death: 21 November 1942 Interred: Status: KIA Enlisted in Co. C, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Marshfield, WI, ca. 1936; 1SG in same unit on 15 Oct. ’40;
assumed command of his company on 21 Nov. after officers became casualties. | | BunaX |
112. | Sutton,
Orrin C. Corporal, U.S. Army
Company L, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Corporal Orrin C. Sutton, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Company L, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 24 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at
Sanananda, New Guinea. Corporal Sutton’s intrepid actions, personal bravery
and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military
forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d
Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory
in Papua, CPL Sutton was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross
for his actions on 24 December 1942 in the Sanananda area when he and three
other soldiers assaulted an enemy trench near the track junction and held it
until they could be reinforced. The track junction was the point where the
Killerton Trail met the Soputa-Sanananda Track.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born:
Home of record: Charlevoix, Michigan Depicted in Associated Press photograph from 15 Dec. ’42
at Buna; described as ’Wild Man’ from MI in the caption; credited with
killing between 30 and 40 Japanese; WIA by machine gun
bullet; returned to duty less than 24 hours later; bestowed with DSC for his
actions 24 Dec. ’42 near Buna, New Guinea; may be namesake for
Sherman-Wudarcki-Sutton Post No. 582 of VFW in Ortonville, MI; may have been
inspiration for a character in Superman comic book in 1943. | | BunaX |
113. | Sweet,
John Emmett, Jr. Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 26 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John E.
Sweet, Jr., United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an
armed enemy while serving with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 December 1942, during the
Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Second Lieutenant Sweet’s intrepid actions,
personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest
traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great
credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 11 December 1915 at Sandusky, Ohio
Home of record: Pennsylvania Death: November 1984 at Owego, New York Interred: Montrose Cemetery, Montrose, Pennsylvania Attended Lehigh University, likely class of ’38, later
attained rank of MAJ. | | BunaX |
114. | *Taber,
Henry G. Captain, U.S. Army
Company G, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 9 February 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain (Infantry) Henry G. Taber (ASN:
0-382981), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 127th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 9 February
1945. Captain Taber’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of
the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon
himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No.
43 (1945)
Born:
Home of record: Edgar County, Illinois Death: 9 February 1945 Interred: Status: KIA | added 22 Jan. ‘13 | VVTX |
115. | Thompson,
Robert George Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 11 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Robert Thompson, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company C, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action
against enemy forces on 11 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign at
Tarakena, New Guinea. Staff Sergeant
Thompson’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” According
to Victory in Papua, S. Sgt. Thompson earned the Distinguished Service
Cross for his leadership of a small group of volunteers who endeavored, under
fire, to string a guide cable across Konombi Creek near Tarakena, New Guinea,
on 10-12 January 1943. The creek’s
current was very swift; the guide cable was needed to enable assault boats to
cross the creek and continue the 127TH Infantry’s advance. He and Pfc. Jack K. Cunningham, Co. E,
worked together to string the first cable.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East,
General Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born: 21 June 1915 at Grants Pass, Oregon
Home of record: New York Death: 16 October 1965, New York, New York Interred: Arlington National Cemetery Served with Abraham Lincoln Brigade during Spanish Civil
War, twice WIA; enlisted in U.S. Army shortly before Pearl Harbor. | | BunaX |
116. | *Van
Bogart, Robert Earl ‘Bob’ or ‘Bogey Bob’ Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 March 1945
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service
Cross (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Robert Van Bogart (ASN: 37173936),
United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry
Division, in action against enemy forces near Santa Maria Pangasinan
Province, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 March 1945. When Staff Sergeant Van
Bogart’s platoon, leading a combat patrol, ran into heavy enemy fire from
snipers and a well concealed machine gun, a number of his men were wounded.
His platoon pinned down, Sergeant Van Bogart crawled forward alone in the
face of this fire to reach the top of a near by ridge. There he deliberately
exposed himself to draw the enemy’s fire and as bullets struck close by him he
located and killed two snipers. Crawling back, he ordered his men to assault
the machine gun, which he had also spotted. He took the lead and again made
his way to the ridge where he stood in full view of the enemy and delivered
steady rifle fire against their position. His men, inspired by his fearless
example, launched an attack which quickly disposed of the emplacement. Moving
out to locate remaining snipers, Sergeant Van Bogart was hit and killed. His
unhesitating willingness to expose himself to danger and his skilled
battlefield leadership saved the lives of many of his comrades and made
possible the further progress of the patrol.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 61
(1945)
Born: 9 August 1916
Home of record: St. Paul, Minnesota Death: 5 March 1945 Interred: Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno,
California Status: KIA Enlisted in Minn. NG ca. ’37; SN 37173936; trained at Camp
Roberts, Paso Robles, CA; was part of Urbana Force during the Battle for
Buna; earned Bronze Star for his actions during fighting along the Driniumor
River near Aitape, New Guinea; WIA while taking Hill 400 on Leyte; KIA by a
sniper 5 Mar. ’45 on the Villa Verde Trail; posthumously bestowed the DSC;
also awarded 2 Purple Hearts and CIB; interred at Golden Gate National
Cemetery, San Bruno, CA | | VVTX |
117. | Vondracek,
Francis J. Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant
Francis J. Vondracek, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished
Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 127th
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
24 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Sergeant
Vondracek’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” The citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle, Milwaukee
Journal, 26 June 1943, “SGT Francis
Vondracek, Route 2, Kaukauna, led a platoon in an attack near Buna mission
Dec. 24 and has received a DSC for heroism. Heavy fire stopped the platoon
and Vondracek reported back to his commanding officer, but when his men were
withdrawn Vondracek volunteered to try to knock out three pillboxes which had
pinned his unit down all day. Armed with four grenades and with three
riflemen covering his advance, Vondracek crawled within six feet of the first
pillbox. He hurled four grenades and knocked out the pillbox, killing five
Japs inside. Vondracek then moved back, filled his helmet with grenades and
attacked two more pillboxes. He reached a shell hole near the pillboxes and
despite heavy enemy fire hurled his grenades so accurately into the entrances
that he knocked out both pillboxes.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army
Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born:
Home of record: Kaukauna, Wisconsin He was a PVT in Co. I, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Neenah, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct.
’40. | | BunaX |
118. | *Wagner,
John F. Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company K, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 4 January 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private
First Class John F. Wagner (ASN: 36276513), United States Army, was awarded
the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 4 January 1944 at [Biliau (Beliau), near the Mot River,
northwest of] Saidor, New Guinea. On
that date Private First Class Wagner’s patrol was attacked in a Banzai charge
by Japanese forces. Remaining behind, he provided covering fire [with his
BAR] that allowed his patrol to withdraw,
sacrificing his own life to save the lives of his comrades. Private First
Class Wagner’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to
duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” The citation was summarized in the Milwaukee Journal
on 5 Apr. ‘44, and Kenosha Evening News, 2 May ’44: “Wagner was a member of a patrol
reconnoitering the area to locate enemy positions. A numerically superior
enemy force was encountered. When the enemy staged a bayonet charge, Wagner
rose to his feet, fully exposing himself to the enemy and fired with deadly
accuracy at pointblank range. His fire dispersed the enemy attack and insured
the safety of his comrades, and he continued firing until he fell mortally
wounded. In this action Wagner exhibited great daring and heroic
self-sacrifice.” PFC
Wagner was 1 of 2 lead scouts for the patrol that day, both were carrying
BARs. PFC Wagner’s CO, CPT John Sullivan, described his actions as “one of the most heroic actions in combat
of which I have personal knowledge.” According to 1SG Herbert
Wendlandt, when the shooting started Wagner
refused to take cover and shouted to his comrades, “I am going to give them hell from here!” General Orders: Headquarters,
U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 23 (1944)
Born: 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin Death: 4 January 1944 at Biliau (Beliau), near the Mot
River, northwest of Saidor, New Guinea Interred: Manila American Cemetery Status: KIA He entered service 20 Oct. ’42 at Milwaukee, WI; SN
36276513; also earned Purple Heart. | updated 18 Jun. ‘14; added 13 Jul. ‘13 | SaidorX |
119. | Waldron,
Albert Whitney Brigadier General, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division Artillery
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of
America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in
presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Brigadier General Albert
Whitney Waldron (ASN: 0-3795), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with the 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 5 December
1942, during the Papuan Campaign near Buna Village, New Guinea. During an
attack on the enemy position near Buna Village, many leaders of small
infantry units became casualties and the units became disorganized. Brigadier
General Waldron, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved along the
line of the assault platoons under heavy fire from enemy snipers, machine
guns, grenades and mortars. By his personal example, calm bearing and utter
fearlessness, he inspired the men to great effort. Brigadier General
Waldron’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and gallant leadership exemplify
the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and
reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United
States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South
West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 60 (December 18, 1942)
Born: 13 January 1892 at New York
Home of record: Rockville Center, New York Death: 21 June 1961 Interred: Arlington
National Cemetery Graduated U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of ’15; served with
Punitive Expedition in Mexico; served with 7TH FA in France during
WWI; WIA in shoulder by sniper on 5 Dec. ’42, awarded Purple Heart; awarded DSM
for his service as Assistant Chief of Staff for Requirements, Headquarters
Army Ground Forces from Mar. ’44 to Oct. ’45; retired as MG. | | BunaX |
120. | *Walker,
Ian William Lieutenant, U.S. Army
2/7th Infantry Battalion, 17th Infantry Brigade, 6th Division, Australian
Army (working alongside 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division)
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of
America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in
presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Ian
W. Walker, Australian Imperial Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection
with military operations against an armed enemy near Buna, New Guinea, on 5
December 1942. During an attack on strongly held enemy positions in which a
Bren Gun Carrier Section was put out of action, Lieutenant Walker went
forward under heavy enemy fire to the disabled carriers, which were located
about half way between the enemy and our own lines, to remove the guns and
ammunition from the disabled carriers. After he had reached the first three
carriers and removed the guns and ammunition, he ordered nearby gunners to
keep up their fire and told the enlisted men, who had accompanied him, to
return to our lines. Lieutenant Walker then went forward, armed with a
submachine gun and under heavy enemy fire, in an attempt to reach a fourth
gun carrier to save the guns and ammunition from it. He was mortally wounded
during this action and died shortly after returning to our lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, South
West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 7 (January 15, 1943)
Born:
Home of record: Sandringham, Victoria, Australia Death: 5 December 1942 Interred: Port Moresby (Bomana) War Cemetery, Papua New
Guinea Status: KIA | added 19 Feb. ‘13 | BunaX |
121. | *Warmenhoven,
Simon Major, U.S. Army
Regimental Surgeon, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis:
“Major (Medical Corps) Simon Warmenhoven, United States Army, was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as
Chief Surgeon, [126TH]
Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on
26 November 1942, at Soputa, New Guinea.
When a mortar landed among the Australians with whom he was serving,
Major Warmenhoven ran forward, dashing past enemy lines. Five men were dead; another eight were
alive, but the shrapnel had seriously wounded them. Major Warmenhoven jumped from one man to
the next as mortars exploded around him.
He gave each soldier a half-grain of morphine, cut away their clothes
and dusted their wounds with sulfanilamide powder. Then he dressed the wounds as best he could
and waited with the moaning soldiers for litter bearers to arrive. The outstanding heroism and devotion to
duty displayed by Major Warmenhoven on this occasion reflect highest credit
upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army
Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 34 (1943)
Born: 17 January 1910 at the Hague,
Netherlands
Home of record: Grand Rapids, Michigan Death: 5 May 1943 Interred: Status: DNB Was Capt. with 126TH Inf.,
Michigan National Guard, when the 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct.
‘40; promoted to Lt. Col. and assigned Div. Surgeon for 32D Div.
ca. Dec. ‘42. | | BunaX |
122. | Weiss,
Howard J. Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red
Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant Howard J. Weiss, United States
Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with Headquarters Company, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 16 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
in New Guinea. Sergeant Weiss’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of
the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry
Division, and the United States Army.” According to Victory in Papua, SGT Weiss
was bestowed with the Distinguished Service Cross for his participation in
hastily organized rescue parties which saved numerous comrades from burning
and sinking Allied supply ships as they were attacked by Japanese aircraft in
the shallows off Cape Sudest on 16 November 1942.
General Orders: Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 1
(1 January 1943)
Born: 1920 at Wisconsin
Home of record: Edgerton, Wisconsin He was a CPL in HQ Co., 128TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, at Edgerton, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15
Oct. ’40. | added 1 Jan. ‘13 | BunaX |
123. | Wildey,
Russell J. Captain, U.S. Army
Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Russell J. Wildey, United States Army,
was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against
enemy forces on 26 December 1942. Captain Wildey’s outstanding leadership, personal
bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
his unit, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 8 (1944)
Born:
Home of record: Michigan He was 2LT in 126TH Inf., Michigan National
Guard, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; commanded Co. M,
126TH Inf. in the Australian Zone during Papuan Campaign; ca. 22
Dec. ’42 he was commander of front line U.S. troops; WIA 26 Dec. ’42 near
Sanananda. | added 21 May ‘13 | BunaX |
124. | Winzenried,
Samuel G. (Winzenreid) Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 13 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Sergeant Samuel G. Winzenried, United
States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary
heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while
serving with Company I, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in
action against enemy forces on 13 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign
at Buna, New Guinea. Sergeant
Winzenried’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.” The
citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle, Milwaukee Journal, 26 June 1943, “When fire from an enemy pillbox impeded advance of Allied troops,
Sgt. Winzenried, without orders and on his initiative, crawled to within 20
yards of the pillbox. Despite fire
from an enemy sniper in a tree, he threw grenades through the entrance of the
pillbox and drove enemy soldiers out.
Winzenried then captured the pillbox and held it through the night,
contributing greatly to the advance of his unit.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 32 (15 June 1943)
Born: 14 July 1916 at Iowa
Home of record: Menasha, Wisconsin Death: 11 January 1991 Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Ladysmith, Wisconsin He was a Pfc. in Co. I, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin
National Guard, Neenah, WI, on 15 Oct. ‘40; a couple of references list his
unit as Co. L, but most references list him as assigned to Co. I. | | BunaX |
125. | *Woods,
Bernard P. Corporal, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry
Division
Date of Action: 28 January 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Corporal Bernard P. Woods (ASN:
39020352), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross
(Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military
operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry
Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 January
1944. Corporal Woods’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion
to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the
military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.” CPL Woods was
likely a member of a patrol from 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf.
involved in a stiff firefight with a large Japanese patrol at Teterei, near
Saidor, New Guinea on 28 Jan. ’44.
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General
Orders No. 129 (1944)
Born: 1920 at California
Home of record: Los Angeles, California Death: 28 January 1944, FOD 17 January 1946 Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila
American Cemetery Status: MIA near Saidor, New Guinea Married; he entered service 21 Feb. ’42 at Ft. MacArthur,
CA; SN 39020352; likely assigned to 1ST Bn., 128TH
Inf., possibly Co. A; also earned Bronze Star and Purple Heart. | added 13 Jun. ‘14 | SaidorX |
126. | *Workman,
James W. Captain, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’
Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Captain
(Infantry) James W. Workman (ASN: 0-271492), United States Army, was awarded
the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in
connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with
the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy
forces on 24 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea.
Captain Workman’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous
devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of
the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself,
the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army
Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 16 May 1907
Home of record: Bexar County, Texas Death: 25 December 1942 Interred: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio,
Texas Status: KIA There is some discrepancy regarding his date of death. The
synopsis of his citation (above) implies 24 Dec., the cemetery listing states
31 Dec., but 2 of 3 history books list 25 Dec. (the 3rd book lists
24 Dec.). | | BunaX |
127. | Zinser,
Roy F. Major, U.S. Army
2D Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D
‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 December 1942
Citation: “The
President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress,
July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to
Major (Infantry) Roy F. Zinser, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism
in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving
with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against
enemy forces pm 16 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign, near Buna, New
Guinea. Lieutenant Colonel Zinser, Executive Officer of his battalion, which
had suffered heavy casualties during a month of combat, voluntarily led one
flank of an attack on the heavily defended enemy position at Coconut Grove,
Girua Gardens. The situation in this section was critical, and the enemy’s
position was a most difficult one to storm. In the face of withering small
arms and mortar fire, he led his troops in an assault against determined
opposition until he was seriously wounded. Lieutenant Colonel Zinser’s
courageous leadership in this attack inspired his troops to a magnificent
effort. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty
exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States
and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the
United States Army.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army
Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 2 (1944)
Born: November 1909 at Monroe, Wisconsin
Home of record: Monroe, Wisconsin Death: 27 July 1999 at Maitland, Florida Interred: Arlington National Cemetery Joined Wisconsin National Guard in 1928; was 1st Lt. in
Co. K, 128TH Inf. at Monroe, WI, when 32D Div.
mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; WIA in explosion at Saidor; continued service in
Army after war; 24 years of service, served in Germany, Japan, last
assignment was commander of Fort Monroe, VA. | | BunaX |
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