Surnames ‘O’ through ‘Z’

Silver Star Recipients from the 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division during World War II

Read here of the deeds of these brave heroes and do not forget them!

The names which are preceded by an asterisk denote posthumous awards.

 

542.   

O’Brien, O’Donnell

Private, U.S. Army

Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 30 November 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “O’Donnell O’Brien, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. O’Brien earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6 (1943)

Born: 23 March 1923 at Toledo, Ohio

Home of Record: Muskegon, Michigan

Death: 10 September 2007 at Las Vegas, Nevada

Interred:

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. G, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Muskegon, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; marched over Owen Stanley Mountains; other awards include Bronze Star, Purple Heart w/OLC, and CIB; discharged summer of ‘45; reenlisted in Army in ‘48; enlisted in the Air Force in ‘53; retired in ‘65 as M. Sgt.; regarding his Silver Star, all he would say was “there were others that were doing acts of great courage just as deserving of a higher medal also”.

BunaX

543.   

Ochoa, Louis

Private, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 24 December 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Louis Ochoa, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Ochoa earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 24 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. A dispatch from Allied Headquarters in Australia, printed in the Windsor Daily Star on 3 Apr. ’43, summarized his actions, “Ochoa was decorated for crossing a bridge near Buna December 24 under heavy enemy fire to bring up the remainder of his patrol which had fallen back. He accomplished this mission and later in the same day volunteered to recross the same bridge to inform the commander of the situation. He crossed and returned under heavy fire. “When the order was given to withdraw,” the citation said, “Ochoa started back with the rest of the patrol, but received two wounds which knocked him off the bridge into the water. He struggled the rest of the way unaided and refused medical attention until the other wounded had been treated.””

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1943)

Born:

Home of Record: Tucson, Arizona

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in. There were contested bridges in both Warren Force and Urbana Force sectors on 24 December 1942.

BunaX

544.   

O’Claire, Francis Alvin

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Francis A. O’Claire, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 91 (1944)

Born: 14 November 1917 at Wisconsin

Home of Record: Peshtigo, Wisconsin

Death: 30 July 1944 near Aitape, New Guinea

Interred: Forest Home Cemetery, Marinette, Wisconsin

Status: KIA

 

Father was Canadian immigrant; Pvt. in Co. A, 127TH Inf., Wis. Nat. Guard, Marinette, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20645896.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

545.   

Oddsen, Thomas B.

__, U.S. Army

__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Thomas B. Oddsen, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 180 (1945)

Born: 21 July 1920 at Norway

Home of Record: St. Charles, Illinois

Death: 21 June 1977

Interred: Concord Methodist Church Cemetery, Concord, Wisconsin

 

Entered service at Chicago, IL on 23 Jun. ‘41; SN 36039771; completed entrance exam for West Point Prep. School on 28 Aug. ‘41; WIA at Luzon, Philippines ca. Mar. ‘45, shrapnel to jaw; brothers Melvin C. and Odd K. also served; married, father of 3; worked in wholesale drug and packaging field for 20 years; attended seminary and ordained deacon of United Methodist Church ca. Sep. ‘76; member of Post No. 5036 of VFW; resided at108 Woodland Ln., Oconomowoc, WI.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

546.   

O’Harrah, Roscoe C.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Roscoe C. O’Harrah, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

547.   

Oles, Willard Lynn

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company B, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 26 November to 13 December 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Willard L. Oles, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Oles earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action from 26 November to 13 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 21 (1943)

Born: 4 March 1917 at Michigan

Home of Record: Adrian, Michigan

Death: 12 February 1997

Interred: Cooley Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, Cooley Springs, SC

 

Married; Cpl. in Co. B, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Adrian, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634229; promoted to Sgt. at Camp Beauregard, LA on 5 Feb. ’41; honorably discharged circa Nov. ‘44; rescued Sgt. Roscoe B. DeLine after he was WIA near Buna, New Guinea, “When Sgt. Oles saw that Sgt. DeLine was down he went in and carried him to safety.”; brothers Lyle and Lawrence also served in Army, Lyle had served in Mich. Nat. Guard but was discharged before the war, he joined the Army in Oct. ’41.

BunaX

548.   

Oliver, Orville E.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Orville E. Oliver, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 67 (1945)

Born: 21 July 2015

Home of Record: Mount Pleasant, Texas

Death: 30 December 1944

Interred: Talco Cemetery, Talco, Texas

Status: DOW

 

SN 38479727.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

549.   

Oliver, William H.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division (co. and regt. presumed)

Date of Action: 30 November 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “William H. Oliver, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Oliver earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. His citation was summarized in the Arizona Republic on 3 May ’43, “Private Oliver fought forward through heavy enemy mortar and sniper fire near Buna village November 30 to aid a fellow soldier in saving a wounded comrade.” A military press release in the Arizona Republic on 1 Apr. ‘43 stated that he and Pvt. Bennie B. Richell ran through heavy mortar and sniper fire to rescue a wounded comrade.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6 (1943)

Born:

Home of Record: Phoenix, Arizona

 

Unit is presumed, based on Pvt. Richell’s unit of assignment.

BunaX

550.   

Olsen, Victor

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Victor Olsen, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (1943)

 

Also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 33 (1943), which may indicate an additional award.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

551.   

Olson, Gust E.

Captain, U.S. Army

__, 129TH Field Artillery Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Gust E. Olson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to his obituary, Capt. Olson earned the Silver Star for his actions in 1944 at New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)

Born: 1 May 1919 at Mountain, Wisconsin

Home of Record: Oconto County, Wisconsin

Death: 8 March 2008

Interred:

 

He graduated Wabeno H. S. in ‘37; married at Marksville, LA on 3 Jul. ‘41, father of 1; Cpl. in Btry. B, 120TH FA Regt., Wisconsin National Guard, La Crosse, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20651848; commissioned at some point; Capt. in 129TH FA Bn., possibly Btry. A, ca. ‘44; professor of military science and tactics at Kemper Military School & College ca. ‘52; stationed at Formosa ‘53-‘55; stationed at San Francisco ‘55-‘58; served as technical advisor for Between Heaven and Hell in ‘56; graduated San Fransisco State College in ‘57; stationed in Italy ‘58-‘60; stationed at Albuquerque, NM ‘60-‘65; assigned Military Advisor for Oreg. Nat. Guard ‘68-‘72; retired as Col. in ‘72; other awards include Legion of Merit, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/4 service stars, Presidential Unit Citation; moved to McMinnville, OR; enjoyed golfing, fishing, bridge and cribbage, working in the yard at church, and Green Bay Packers; member of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, American Legion, and Michelbook Country Club.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

552.   

Olson, Victor L.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Victor L. Olson (ASN: 20648846), United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, then Sgt. Olson earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 5 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 3 (1943)
Born: 1917 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Colfax, Wisconsin

Death: 28 January 1944 at Teterei, near Saidor, New Guinea

Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila American Cemetery

Status: MIA

 

Olson, Victor L.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to GO No. 28, S. Sgt. Olson earned the OLC to the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 25 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 1917 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Colfax, Wisconsin

Death: 28 January 1944 at Teterei, near Saidor, New Guinea

Interred: listed on Tablets of the Missing at Manila American Cemetery

Status: MIA

 

*Olson, Victor L.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 January 1944
Citation Needed: S. Sgt. Olson earned 2nd OLC to the Silver Star 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 one of the 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. attacked by a 100-man Japanese force west of the Mot River near Teterei, along the western edge of the Saidor bridgehead, 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. S. Sgt. Olson was KIA when Japanese machine guns opened up on the chain of rescuers; he has been MIA ever since.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 19 (1944)
Born: 1917 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Colfax, Wisconsin

Death: 28 January 1944 at Teterei, near Saidor, New Guinea

Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Manila American Cemetery

Status: MIA

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. A, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Menomonie, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; he earned Silver Star w/2 OLCs, Bronze Star and Purple Heart; he was also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 33 (1943) & GO No. 53 (1943), which may indicate additional awards.

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553.   

Ordung, Wyott B.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Wyott B. Ordung, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 251 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

554.   

O’Sullivan, John F.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 4 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “John F. O’Sullivan, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Lt. O’Sullivan earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 4 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 21 (1943)
Born:
Home of Record: Massachusetts

 

Given that he was an engineer officer from MA, it is possible that he was assigned to 114TH Eng. Bn. and may have been in the Massachusetts National Guard.

BunaX

555.   

*Packard, Robert J.

Private, U.S. Army
Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 15 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert J. Packard, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Packard was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 15 December 1942 near Buna Village, New Guinea. The citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle, of the Milwaukee Journal, in a war-time dispatch from overseas on 23 April 1943, “While aiding in a support attack made by his company, Packard was wounded when a gun was put out of action by enemy fire. Under orders he reported back for medical treatment, then returned to his machinegun and put it back into action and materially assisted in the advance. Again Packard was sent back as a casualty but he returned to the front the following day and immediately manned a machine gun and was of vital assistance in returning a wounded man to the rear lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)
Born: 1920 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 29 December 1942

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. K, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Milwaukee, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40.

BunaX

556.   

Panhorst, Harry Edward

Captain, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Harry E. Panhorst, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 260 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

557.   

Parks, Charles E., Jr.

Captain, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 19 – 20 November 1944

Citation: Capt. Parks’ citation was summarized in the Kenosha Evening News on 31 May ‘45: “A strong force of the enemy had established a road block along a strategic trail, and was well entrenched. A previous attack by a friendly infantry company had been repulsed, and it was decided that an artillery barrage should be laid down as preparation for a second attack. Capt. Parks proceeded to a point in advance of our lines and began directing artillery fire on the hostile positions. The enemy concentrated considerable automatic weapons and small arms fire at him, but heedless of his personal danger, he continued with his task until darkness. The following morning he returned to the same exposed observation point and directed fire so accurately that infantrymen were enabled to advance and rout the enemy, inflicting many casualties on them. Capt. Parks’ capable direction of the artillery barrage, performed at great risk to himself, made possible the destruction of formidable enemy emplacements.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 93 (1945)

Born: circa 1915 at Arizona

Home of Record: Kenosha, Wisconsin

 

Family resided at Kenosha, WI at ‘40 census; father resided at Cedar Rapids, IA ca. ‘45; enlisted in Trp. E, 105TH Cav., Wis. Nat. Guard, Kenosha, WI; Pfc. in Btry. E, 126TH FA Regt., Kenosha, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20656615; completed OCS and commissioned 2d Lt.

LeyteX

558.   

Passarelli, Frank C.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Frank C. Passarelli, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 19 (1944)

Born: 17 October 1920 at Illinois

Home of Record: Chicago, Illinois

Death: 3 December 2001

Interred: Holy Sepulchre Garden Mausoleum

 

Son of Italian immigrants; started as bottle washer at Royal Crown Cola in ‘41; also earned Purple Heart; married, father of 2; returned to Royal Crown Cola, 1st as a truck driver, then sales, retired as vice president and general manager in ‘91; alderman, school board member, police commissioner at Palos Heights, IL.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

559.   

Patrinos, Carl Joseph

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company G, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 17 January 1943
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Patrinos earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 17 January 1943 at Giruwa during Battle for Sanananda, New Guinea.
General Orders: HQ, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, G.O. No. 34 (1943)
Born: 
Home of Record: Waukesha, Wisconsin

 

Pvt. in Co. G, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Oconomowoc, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; earned Silver Star for his actions as Sgt. on 17 Jan. ‘43 near Giruwa; one of the people who recommended him was Australian artillery officer who was with him that day; 2d Lt. with 1ST Plt., Co. G, on the Villa Verde Trail.

BunaX

560.   

Patton, Lawrence E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lawrence E. Patton, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1945)

Born: 9 August 1921 at Georgia

Home of Record: Blue Ridge, Georgia

Death: 27 July 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Harmony Baptist Cemetery, Blue Ridge, Georgia

Status: KIA

 

Entered service at Ft. McPherson, GA on 13 Dec. ‘42; SN 34577873; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 367 (1945), which may indicate an additional award; brother James E. also served in Army during WWII.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

561.   

Payne, La Roy Roland (LaRoy, LeRoy, LeRay)

Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “La Roy R. Payne, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 208 (1945)
Born: 30 April 1918 at Yamhill, Oregon
Home of Record: Grant County, Oregon, likely Yamhill, Oregon

Death: 27 April 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Married, father of 2; entered service 12 Jul. ‘44 at Portland, OR; SN 39345053; also earned Purple Heart; brother Pfc. Lester L. also served with Army in Philippines

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

562.   

Peake, Walter, Jr.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Walter Peake, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 70 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

563.   

Pederson, Donald Roy

Technician Third Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 May 1945
Citation: “Technician Third Grade Donald R. Pederson, (20651190), Medical Department, United States Army. For Gallantry in action near the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 20 May 1945. When word was received at the battalion aid station that there were several casualties up front in need of emergency treatment, Technician Pederson alternately ran and crawled along a trail subjected to enemy automatic weapon and small arms fire to where the wounded lay. An attempt to evacuate one of the wounded failed because of the excessive volume of fire sweeping the terrain; whereupon Technician Pederson crawled from foxhole to foxhole until he obtained a sufficient quantity of smoke grenades to screen the activities of litter bearers in the neighborhood.   Technician Pederson’s willingness to risk his life made possible the successful evacuation of the wounded soldier.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 275 (25 August 1945)
Born: 19 December 1921 at Superior, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Superior, Wisconsin

Death: 27 June 2016

Interred: National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona

 

He was Pfc. in Med. Det., 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Superior, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20651190; discharged in ‘45; married, father of 6; graduated from Stout Institute and earned Master’s Degree from Eastern Mich. U.; resided at Monroe and Ann Arbor, MI; taught drivers education for over 40 years in MI and AZ; retired to Sun City, AZ; life member of American Legion, Past Exalted Ruler of Elks Lodge at Monroe, MI, member of Sun City Elks Lodge 2559 and Military Order of Purple Heart Chap. 691, Sun City.

VVTX

564.   

Pelz, Howard L.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Howard L. Pelz, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 67 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

565.   

*Pereny, Louis L.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Louis L. Pereny, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 14 (1945)

Born: 24 September 1916 at Pennsylvania

Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 30 November 1944

Interred: Mount Olivet Cemetery, Detroit, Michigan

Status: DOW

 

Son of Romanian immigrants; SN 36540720; namesake of Pereny-Korner Post No. 19 of Amvets.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

566.   

Perez, Pedro

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 April 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Pedro Perez, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” S. Sgt. Perez earned the Silver Star for rescuing a wounded comrade on 30 Apr. ’45, he was WIA during the event.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 36 (1946)
Born: 19 October 1921 at Wimberley, Texas
Home of Record: San Marcos, Texas

 

Hispanic American; joined CCC in ‘39; returned home ca. 6 Jul. ‘42; entered service 20 Jul. ‘42 at Ft. Sam Houston, TX; SN 38114133; WIA 30 Apr. ‘45, about 1500 hours, on Luzon, machinegun bullets to both legs, while rescuing a wounded comrade; convalescing at Percy Jones Gen. Hosp., Battle Creek, MI, where he was discharged in Jul. ‘47; also earned Bronze Star and Purple Heart; married, father of 2.

VVTX

567.   

Perkins, Paul Dalton

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Paul D. Perkins, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 31 (1945)

Born: 29 July 1918 at Angelina County, Texas

Home of Record: Angelina County, Texas

Death: 24 April 1983

Interred: Walker Cemetery, Redland, Texas

 

Entered service at Tyler, TX on 4 May ‘42; SN 38137779; also earned Purple Heart; brother Sgt. Norman R. also served in Army during WWII; brother Joe R. served in Navy; retired as fireman for Alaskan Railroad; member of Redland United Methodist Church; resided at Redland, TX.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

568.   

Perkins, Virgie

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Virgie Perkins, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 296 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

569.   

Perry, James E.

Private, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James E. Perry, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 161 (1945)
Born: 1918 at Utah
Home of Record: Douglas County, Oregon

Death: 26 April 1945 on Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He entered service 8 Aug. ‘44 at Portland, OR; SN 39345840; married; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

570.   

Peterson, Elmer P.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Cannon Company, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Elmer P. Peterson (ASN: 20651990), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, near Soptua, New Guinea, on 26 December 1942.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 19 December 1918 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Death: 27 October 1987

Interred: Calvary Cemetery, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

 

He was a Pfc. in Btry. C, 120TH FA Regt., Wisconsin National Guard, at Chippewa Falls, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20651990; assigned to Cannon Co., 126TH Inf. after triangularization; assigned to Detachment of Patients, 105TH Gen. Hosp. when he was bestowed with his decoration (suggests he was WIA, injured in some other way, or succumbed to some tropical disease); also served during Korean War; twice married, father of at least 3.

BunaX

571.   

*Peterson, Marvin M.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 July 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: S. Sgt. Peterson earned the Silver Star, bestowed posthumously, “For the coolness, courage, and sound judgment he exhibited which enabled his men to withdraw from a precarious position. . .” His actions were further described in a 32D Division dispatch thusly: “When his eight man outpost was cut off by a force of approximately 50 Japanese, Peterson ordered his men to withhold their fire. He was forced to kill a Jap who penetrated the perimeter, and the shot revealed their position. In the ensuing fight all of the squad’s hand grenades were expended and the Americans withdrew to a river bank. Peterson then dispatched a messenger for reinforcements; the strong force that returned then took up the fight and forced the Japs to retreat. Later, Peterson was fatally wounded in a patrol action.”
General Orders:
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; KIA on 27 Jul. ‘44 near Aitape, New Guinea, while trying to save a comrade; also earned Purple Heart.

AitapeX

572.   

Peterson, Robert F.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert F. Peterson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 78 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

573.   

*Petrille, Wette J. (V.) (presumed posthumous)

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Wette J. Petrille, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 110 (1945)

Born: 17 February 1911 at Batavia, New York

Home of Record: Rochester, New York

Death: 5 March 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rochester, New York

Status: KIA

 

Son of Italian immigrants; worked at Kodak Park; entered service at Rochester, NY on 26 Dec. ‘42; SN 32586525; overseas Mar. ‘44; also earned Purple Heart; mother notified ca. 31 Mar. ’45.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

574.   

Phillips, Newman W.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company L, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Newman W. Phillips, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 60 (1945)

Born: 31 July 1923 at Kansas City, Missouri

Home of Record: St. Louis County, Missouri

Death: 30 March 2005 at Maricopa County, Arizona

Interred: Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, Mesa, Arizona

 

Entered service at Jefferson Barracks, MO on 7 Oct. ‘42; SN 17121190; also earned Purple Heart; twice married, father of 3; worked as a carpenter for 50 years; resided at St. Charles, MO; retired to Mesa, AZ in ’89.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

575.   

Phillips, Paul T.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 16 December 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Paul T. Phillips, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Phillips earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (1943)

Born: 17 November 1919 at Michigan City, Indiana

Home of Record: Niles, Michigan

Death: 20 February 2002 at Niles, Michigan

Interred:

 

He entered service 18 Nov. ‘41 at Ft. Custer, MI; SN 36161728.

BunaX

576.   

Phillips, Willard H.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Willard H. Phillips, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 126 (1945)

 

Also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 341 (1945), which indicate an additional award.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

577.   

Pieh, Richard J.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company B, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 8 December 1942 (see below for information regarding discrepancy)
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Richard J. Pieh (ASN: 20634268), United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Pieh earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 16 December 1942 near Buna (see below for information regarding discrepancy).
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 2 (1943)
Born: 28 January 1922 at Michigan
Home of Record: Deerfield, Michigan

Death: 31 October 1993

Interred: Deerfield Township Cemetery, Deerfield, Michigan

 

There is some discrepancy regarding the date of action, Papuan Campaign lists date as 16 Dec., newspaper articles from the time state the patrol was conducted on 8 Dec., 3 of the other 4 Silver Stars for this patrol list 8 Dec. as date of action (most likely is 8 Dec., cannot be certain without seeing actual citation); 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 DSC for his actions as 1st Sgt. on 20 Dec. ‘44; 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.

BunaX

578.   

Pinkowsky, John A.

Lieutenant, U.S. Army
32D Quartermaster Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant John A. Pinkowsky (ASN: 0-404151), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 32d Quartermaster Company, 32d Infantry Division, at Hariko, New Guinea, on 23 December 1942.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 1912
Home of Record: Clintonville, Wisconsin

 

Hometown Clintonville, WI, also had ties to Oshkosh, WI; married; he was a 2d Lt. in Co. A, 107TH QM Regt., Wisconsin National Guard, at Clintonville, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN O-404151; later assigned to 32D QM Co.; arrived at Ft. Sheridan, IL from the Philippines 25 Jan. ‘45; left for home 26 Jan. for 21-30-day furlough; re-enlisted 14 Mar. ‘46 as a QM Corps M. Sgt. at Milwaukee, WI; new SN 16181574.

BunaX

579.   

Pinnix, William T.

Private, U.S. Army

Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 15 March 1945

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Private William T. Pinnix (ASN: 39582620), United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action while serving with the 32d Infantry Division, in action near the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 15 March 1945, when the enemy staged a surprise attack on the perimeter.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 126 (1945)

Born: 21 July 1910 at Kansas

Home of Record: Santa Ana, California

Death: 5 March 1972 at Los Angeles, California

Interred: Fairhaven Memorial Park, Santa Ana, California

 

Married, father of 1; entered service at Ft. MacArthur, CA on 14 Apr. ‘44; SN 39582620; promoted to Sgt.; also earned Bronze Star; re- married in ’70.

VVTX

580.   

Piogeon, Edmund

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edmund Piogeon, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 10 (1945)

 

Surname might actually be Pigeon, if so, Soldier might be Edmund (Edmond) ‘Ed’ Pigeon or White Pigeon; born 9 Dec. ‘17; hometown Wayland, MI; Native American, Potawatomi; entered service at Kalamazoo, MI on 23 Apr. ‘41; SN 36155641; attained rank of S. Sgt.; married, father of (at least) 4; earned Michigan Heritage Award in ‘88 for his black ash basket weaving skills; passed away 28 Jul. ‘02 at age 84; interred at Bradley Indian Mission Cemetery, Wayland, MI.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

581.   

Plank, Robert

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert Plank, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 200 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

582.   

Poddam, Norman H.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Norman H. Poddam, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Pfc. Poddam earned the Silver Star for crawling forward under intense enemy fire to rescue a wounded comrade near Aitape, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 70 (1944)
Born: circa 1921
Home of Record: Hamtramck, Michigan

Death: 25 July 1945

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: DOW

 

*Poddam, Norman H.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 July 1945
Citation: “Private First Class Norman H. Poddam, (36512349), Infantry, United States Army. For gallantry in action near Senipsip [Sinipsip] Gate, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 25 July 1945. While organizing for an attack, Japanese mortars opened up on our troops, killing two men and wounding fifteen. Private Poddam, unselfishly ignoring his own safety, remained for two hours in the exposed area making litters, giving first aid, and comforting the wounded. Later in the day when the platoon sergeant of the lead platoon was seriously injured and lay, unable to move, on exposed terrain, Private Poddam and three men courageously ran through the deadly rifle and machine gun fire to the wounded man. The intensity of the barrage never lessened, and 50 yards from safety Private Poddam was hit in the side, the wound so severe it rendered him paralyzed from the waist down. Although wincing in pain, Private Poddam realizing only one man could be evacuated, ordered the other three men to take out the wounded sergeant. Later under the cover of a concealing fog his comrades reached the fire swept terrain upon which Private Poddam lay.   His wounds had proved fatal. H is extreme heroism, gallantry and service to his fellow comrades ended in the sacrifice of his life.” Citation was signed by Brig. Gen. Robert B. McBride, Jr., the Division Commander.
General Orders:
Born: circa 1921
Home of Record: Hamtramck, Michigan

Death: 25 July 1945

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: DOW

 

Father was German immigrant; also earned Purple Heart.

 

His first award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know exactly where to place it.

AitapeX VVTX

583.   

Pollick, Albert P.

Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Albert P. Pollick, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore. Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born: 1920 at Pottstown, Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Pottstown, Pennsylvania

Death: 11 February 2004 at Pottstown, Pennsylvania

Interred: Highland Memorial Park, Pottstown, Pennsylvania

 

He graduated Pottstown H. S. in ‘37; graduated Temple U.; married, father of 1; enlisted in Pennsylvania National Guard in ‘40; entered active service 17 Feb. ‘41 at Pottstown, PA; SN 20307826; commissioned 2d Lt. at some point; promoted to Capt.; his other awards include Bronze Star, Purple Heart w/OLC, and Presidential Unit Citation; brother Sgt. Elmer J. also served in Army during WWII; C.E.O. and president of Pottstown Memorial Medical Center, retired in ‘86; member of Elks, American Legion and Pottstown School District Alumni Honor Roll; his unit of assignment is presumed, most of the patrol members whose unit is known were assigned to the 126TH Inf.; some references list hometown as Conshohocken, PA.

AitapeX

584.   

Pollister, Louis H.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 28 December 1942

Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, S. Sgt. Pollister earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 28 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 36 (1943)

Born: 1912 at Massachusetts

Home of Record: Foxboro, Massachusetts

 

He worked at Stokes-Smith box factory at Foxboro, MA; entered active service on 24 Aug. ‘41 with the Massachusetts National Guard at Ft. Devens, MA; SN 20115991; married; he was a member of an ad hoc patrol of engineer Soldiers led by Lt. Herbert G. Peabody that went behind enemy lines near Buna; they found and raided a Japanese hospital, brought back some medical supplies and valuable intel. on enemy positions; other members of patrol were Earl Mittleberger, Sgt. Bart McDonough, Anthony Wodenka, Cpl. James Clay, Cpl. Arthur Melanson; he earned Silver Star for his actions 28 Dec. ‘42 near Buna when he led a “bridge party” which successfully built an expedient 50’ bridge across a creek near Buna under heavy enemy fire; members of his team included Earl Mittleberger, Sgt. Bart McDonough, Cpl. James Clay, Cpl. Arthur Melanson, Charles Gray; company of assignment is presumed based on the unit of assignment of the other members of his team.

BunaX

585.   

Ports, Robert Allen

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army

Headquarters, 126TH Field Artillery Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 28 April 1945

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Robert Allen Ports, United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy as Commanding Officer, 126th Field Artillery Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, during World War II.” According to the West Point Assn. of Graduates, Lt. Col. Ports earned the Silver Star for his actions on 28 Apr. ‘45 along the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines, when he ““exposed himself to intense sniper fire” in order to direct a liaison plane into position to adjust fire on a concealed strong point.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 281 (1945)

Born: 28 January 1905 near Columbus, Ohio

Home of Record: Columbus, Ohio

Death: 7 April 1967 at San Francisco, California

Interred: United States Military Academy Post Cemetery, West Point, New York.

 

Attended Ohio State U. ca. ‘23-‘26; enlisted as Pvt. in 37TH Div., Ohio Nat. Guard, on 26 Jun. ‘25; admitted to USMA at West Point on 1 Jul. ‘26, graduated 11 Jun. ‘30 and commissioned 2d Lt., Arty., 12 Jun. ‘30; SN 018175; served with 83D FA Regt., Ft. Benning, GA; Army Arty. School, Army Command and General Staff College, Armed Forces Staff College at some point; promoted Maj. 1 Feb. ‘42; G-3, 3D Div.; G-3 6TH Div.; G-3 IX Corps; G-3, 89TH Div.; promoted Lt. Col. on 23 Feb. ‘43; G-3, 11TH Airborne Div. in U.S. and New Guinea; Cdr., 126TH FA Bn. at Luzon, Philippines; Div. Arty. XO, 32D Div.; Chief of Staff, 32D Div. with Army of Occupation; promoted to Col. on 15 Jan. ‘46; G-1, Sixth Army, Presidio of San Francisco; Director of Training, Amphibious Training Command, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Coronado, CA, ‘49-‘52; HQ, U. S. European Command and Seventh Army, ‘52-‘55; HQ Commandant and Cdr., Special Troops, Sixth Army, Presidio of San Francisco; retired in ‘60 with over 30 years of service; other awards include Bronze Star w/OLC, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal w/OLC, Purple Heart, Distinguished Unit Citation; married, father 1; worked for Western Title Insurance Co., San Francisco, CA; member of Bay Area West Point Society, Presidio of San Francisco Officers Club, American Legion.

VVTX

586.   

Post, Marvin C.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Marvin C. Post, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 66 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

587.   

Potter, Charles L., Jr.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Charles L. Potter, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 100 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

588.   

Poulos, Michael E.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Michael E. Poulos, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 188 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

589.   

Pravda, George

First Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 30 November 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “George Pravda, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Sgt. Pravda earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 November 1942 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 3 (1943)

Born: 12 December 1912 at Illinois

Home of Record: Spring Lake, Michigan

Death: 8 June 2006

Interred: Spring Lake Cemetery, Spring Lake, Michigan

 

Pravda, George

First Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 30 November 1942

Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Sgt. Pravda earned the Oak Leaf Cluster to the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 1 December 1942 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)

Born: 12 December 1912 at Illinois

Home of Record: Spring Lake, Michigan

Death: 8 June 2006

Interred: Spring Lake Cemetery, Spring Lake, Michigan

 

Mother was Hungarian immigrant; Sgt. in Co. F, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Haven, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634954; seriously WIA ca. 5 Dec. ‘42 during attack on Govt. Station; later earned battlefield commission and eventually attained rank of Capt.; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 53 (1943), which may indicate an additional award.

BunaX BunaX

590.   

*Presson, Leo B.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Leo B. Presson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 36 (1945)

Born: 18 January 1919 at Greene County, Arkansas

Home of Record: Blue Cane, Arkansas

Death: 3 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Woodland Heights Cemetery, Rector, Arkansas

Status: KIA

 

SN 37102761.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

591.   

Pruett, Leonard E.

Private, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division (regt. presumed)
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Leonard E. Pruett, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born:
Home of Record: Bluefield, West Virginia

 

His unit of assignment is presumed, most of the patrol members whose unit is known were assigned to the 126TH Inf.

AitapeX

592.   

Pugsley, George W., Jr.

Captain, U.S. Army
22D Portable Hospital (attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division)
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “George W. Pugsley, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Pugsley earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 November 1942 near Cape Sudest, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 15 (1943)
Born: 1 July 1912 at Shelby, Iowa
Home of Record: Bayard, Nebraska

Death: 3 August 1952 near North Platte, Nebraska

Interred: Bayard Cemetery, Bayard, Nebraska

 

Married, father of (at least) 1; He was a medical officer assigned to 22D Portable Hosp.; his father George W. Pugsley, Sr., was also a doctor and served in Nebraska National Guard during Mexican Border Crisis and WWI.

BunaX

593.   

Purk, Rex N.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 25 December 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Rex N. Purk, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Purk earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a medic on 25 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. His actions were summarized in an article in the Windsor Daily Star on 3 Apr. ’43, “Purk was cited for crawling through a cocoanut grove and an area of tall grass on Christmas Day under constant enemy observation and sniper fire near Buna Mission to give first aid to a lieutenant and a private who were mortally wounded.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1943)

Born: December 1919 at Michigan

Home of Record: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Death: 20 July 1983

Interred:

 

Purk, Rex N.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 20 December 1942

Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Purk earned the Oak Leaf Cluster to the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a medic on 20 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders:

Born: December 1919 at Michigan

Home of Record: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Death: 20 July 1983

Interred:

 

Married; entered service 24 Nov. ’41 at Ft. Custer, MI; SN 36162260.

BunaX BunaX

594.   

Purtyman, Howard C.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company F, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Purtyman earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. Sgt. Purtyman’s citation was summarized in a news release from Allied Headquarters in Australia in the Hudson Register on 23 March 1943, “Sergeant Purtyman led a squad in an attack on the enemy in a cocoanut grove near Buna Dec. 16, and the citation said: “With utter disregard for his personal safety he moved forward under enemy observation within five yards of an enemy pillbox. At that moment an enemy soldier rushed out of the pillbox and fired with an automatic weapon over Purtyman’s head at troops behind him.   Without hesitation he threw a grenade at the enemy soldier, annihilating him and destroying his weapon.   Purtyman’s gallantry was an exception in that his rifle had jammed and he continued this attack with hand grenades as his only weapons.””
General Orders:
Born: 1919
Home of Record: Sedona, Arizona

 

From Sedona, AZ but resided at Tulare Co., CA when he entered service; entered service 7 Jan. ’42 at Ft. Bliss, TX; SN 38070602.

BunaX

595.   

Pyles, Vernon H.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 29 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Pyles earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a medic on 29 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. His actions were summarized by Murlin Spencer in a war-time dispatch from overseas printed in the St. Petersburg Times on 4 Jan. ’43, “They are brave men, like the little group of five who volunteered to take medical supplies through to a company which first reached the coast only to have the Japs cut them off… It was from him [Pvt. Arthur A. Christofaro] I heard the story of the five who dared go unarmed through enemy lines to take medical supplies to the isolated company, which has since been rescued. They were privates Ray Jackson of Arlington, Wis.; Sam Scarfo of Youngstown, O.; Gerald McCarthy of Waterloo, Ill.; Vernon A. Pyles of LaGrange, Ky.; and Capt. Rafael R. Gamso, New York, NY. Gamso stayed all night to treat the wounded and returned the next day.”
General Orders:
Born: 1920 at Kentucky
Home of Record: LaGrange, Kentucky

 

He entered service 27 Nov. ’41 at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN; SN 35250030.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

596.   

Quirk, Emmet G.

Captain, U.S. Army
__, 120TH Field Artillery Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 January 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Emmett G. Quirk, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Capt. Quirk earned the Silver Star 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 directed vital artillery fire to support the 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 bridgehead, on 28 Jan. ’44. The patrol killed 43 Japanese soldiers, but suffered 8 killed, 6 MIA, and 9 WIA.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 23 (1944)
Born: 24 June 1907
Home of Record: Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Death: 18 May 1990

Interred: Hope Cemetery, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

 

He was 2d Lt. in Btry. C, 120TH FA Regt., Wisconsin National Guard, at Chippewa Falls, WI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; Capt. assigned to La Crosse Army recruiting office ca. ‘47; also served during Korean War and Vietnam; attained rank of Lt. Col.

SaidorX

597.   

Rafferty, Edward L.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edward L. Rafferty, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 19 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

598.   

*Rains, Warren Eugene

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Warren E. Rains, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 200 (1945)

Born: 9 November 1921 at Oklahoma

Home of Record: Bentley, Oklahoma

Death: 31 March 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Fort Gibson National Cemetery, Fort Gibson, Oklahoma

Status: KIA

 

Graduated Atoka H. S. in ‘39; attended bus. college at Tulsa, OK; enlisted in Oklahoma National Guard on 17 Jan. ‘40; SN 20829915; mobilized at Tulsa, OK on 16 Sep. ‘40; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

599.   

*Rainwater, Joe H.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company D, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 3 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Joe H. Rainwater, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Rainwater earned the Silver Star (posthumously) for gallantry in action on 4 January 1943 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.   Papuan Campaign is only reference that lists date as 4 Jan., other references, including his memorial, state 3 Jan.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1943)
Born: 10 April 1918 at Texas
Home of Record: Concho County, Texas

Death: 3 January 1943 near Buna Mission

Interred: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas

Status: KIA

 

He entered service 12 Dec. ’41 at Ft. Sam Houston, TX; SN 38079148.

BunaX

600.   

Rajski, Roman Lawrence

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Roman L. Rajski, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to his obituary, Pfc. Rajski earned the Silver Star for his actions on 7 Jul. ‘44 near Aitape, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 105 (1945)

Born: 27 July 1920 at Stevens Point or Portage, Wisconsin

Home of Record: Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Death: 12 June 1981 at El Paso, Texas

Interred: Fort Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, Texas

 

Graduated Emerson H. S. in ‘38; attended Central State Teachers College; enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard in ‘39; Pfc. in Btry. D, 120TH FA Regt., Stevens Point, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20652281; 2D Bn., 120TH FA Regt. became 129TH FA Bn. when 32D Div. was triangularized, not sure if he served with that unit or some other one; earned battlefield commission; discharged in Nov. ‘45; brother Patrick A. served with Navy during WWII; sister Laures served with WAC, WWII, Korea, Vietnam; served in post-war Wis. Nat. Guard; “re-entered active military duty with the U.S. Army in February 1952 during the Korean War and served 11 months in the United States and Germany, where he commanded an air defense artillery detachment prior to his retirement as a major in 1963”; married at Stevens Point, WI on 1 Dec. ‘45, father of 4; worked as electrician at Eastwood Hosp., El Paso, TX; member of Retired Officers Assn. and General McGlachlin Post No. 568 of VFW.

AitapeX

601.   

Raninen, Emil

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
732D (Ordnance) Light Maintenance Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Emil Raninen, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, S. Sgt. Raninen earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 December 1942 near Government Gardens (Buna), New Guinea.   According to the U.S. Army Ordnance Corps Hall of Fame, “he volunteered to go into “no man’s land” under enemy fire to determine the manufacture of three enemy antiaircraft guns, count the ammunition for these weapons, dismantle them, and bring back their breechblocks. In the course of this mission, he killed several enemy personnel.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 6 January 1916
Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 5 November 2011

Interred: Bay Pines National Cemetery, Bay Pines, Florida

 

Son of Finnish immigrants; entered service spring ‘41; initially served with 126TH Inf.; later trained as ordnanceman and assigned to 732D (Ord.) Light Maint. Co.; contracted malaria in New Guinea and was sent to the hospital in Australia; on Saidor beachhead he and several buddies captured and repaired a Japanese machine gun and used it against enemy planes during a raid; featured in Yank magazine (31 Mar. ’44) after he, Cpl. Eugene Weinard of West Bend, WI, S. Sgt. Charles Allhands of Madison, WI, discovered an emaciated Japanese soldier in a dugout near Raninen’s jungle hammock on Saidor; toward the end of the war he served as an artillery repair instructor at the Ordnance School, Aberdeen Proving Ground, for about 14 months; worked as jeweler in Big Rapids, MI, after the war; started sauna stove business ca. ‘63; inducted into U.S. Army Ordnance Corps Hall of Fame in ‘88; at a WWII event in FL in ‘08, he re-met the nurse who had cared for him when he was hospitalized with malaria in Australia 60 years earlier.

BunaX

602.   

Ravizza, George V.

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “George V. Ravizza, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”  

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (1946)

Born: 5 August 1913 at California

Home of Record: San Mateo, California

Death: 20 January 2000

Interred: San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery

 

Married; entered service at San Francisco, CA on 8 Apr. ‘43; SN 39044291; also earned Bronze Star w/OLC.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

603.   

*Rawson, George D.

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company M, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 31 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “George Rawson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Rawson earned the Silver Star, awarded posthumously, for gallantry in action on 31 December 1942 at Buna Mission, New Guinea. A dispatch by war correspondent Robert J. Doyle in the Milwaukee Journal on 26 Apr. ’43 summarized his actions thusly:

     “When an order was given for an American squad to withdraw to regain contact with its company near Buna Mission Dec. 31, Corp. George Rawson, 200 S. Military St., Fond du Lac, and another soldier killed five Japanese to enable the squad to withdraw safely.

     “The squad had been pinned down by Japanese riflemen and grenadiers.   Ignoring the danger to himself, Rawson crawled ahead into the enemy fire to reach a position where he could fire on the enemy. He was fatally wounded but his sacrifice enabled his squad to reach safety.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)
Born: 1918 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Death: 31 December 1942

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. M, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Fond du Lac, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; also earned Purple Heart.

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604.   

*Rea, Donald N.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Donald N. Rea, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, S. Sgt. Rea earned the Silver Star (posthumously) for gallantry in action on 26 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 38 (1943)
Born: 1 October 1917 at Kansas
Home of Record: Muskegon County, Michigan

Death: 26 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Laketon Cemetery, Muskegon, Michigan, or Mona View Cemetery, Muskegon Heights, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He entered service 21 Apr. ‘41 at Kalamazoo, MI; SN 36155344.

BunaX

605.   

Rea, James P.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James P. Rea, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 131 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

606.   

Reagan, Edward E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edward E. Reagan, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Red Arrow Men, Pfc. Reagan earned the Silver Star for his actions at Leyte, Philippines, when he “found booby traps, dug out mines and helped clear the Ormoc highway for the tanks. During this, Jap snipers peppered away at him.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1945)

Born: 7 May 1919 at Indiana

Home of Record: Jackson, Michigan

Death: 8 May 1969

Interred: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Jackson, Michigan

 

Married; entered service at Kalamazoo, MI on 5 May ‘41; SN 36156292.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

LeyteX

607.   

Rebenock, Michael ‘Mike’ ‘Mutz’

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: His family believes he earned the Silver Star, but I have not been able to confirm it.

General Orders:
Born: 23 February 1921 at Shade Rockingham, Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Central City, Pennsylvania

Death: 23 February 1993

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Painesville, Ohio

 

Entered service 31 Jul. ‘42 at Altoona, PA; SN 33249080; served with 32D Div. from New Guinea to the Philippines (Saidor, Aitape, Morotai, Leyte, Luzon); earned Purple Heart w/3 OLC, and CIB; discharged ca. Oct. ’45; married, father of 2; was Plt. Sgt. of 1ST Plt., Co. A, 145TH Inf., 37TH Div., Ohio Nat. Guard, at Painesville, OH ca. 9 Feb. ‘48 when Ohio Nat. Guard was undergoing post-war re-organization.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

608.   

Redditt, Opal W.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Opal W. Redditt, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 78 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

609.   

*Reece, Lewis F. ‘Louie’ (presumed posthumous)

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lewis F. Reece, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 172 (1945)

Born: 3 August 1918 at Michigan

Home of Record: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 23 April 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Greenwood Cemetery, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Entered service at Detroit, MI on 20 Apr. ‘41; SN 36155425; brother S. Sgt. William also served with Army during WWII.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

610.   

Reed, Donald E.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 2D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Donald E. Reed, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born: 
Home of Record: Pine Grove Mills, Pennsylvania

AitapeX

611.   

Reed, Thomas R.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 January 1944 (presumed)
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Thomas R. Reed, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Sgt. Reed almost certainly earned the Silver Star 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 one of the 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 bridgehead, 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. Sgt. Reed pulled Lt. Col. Gordon M. Clarkson, Bn. Cdr., to safety when the latter lost his footing while attempting to wade the rushing river.   Then Lt. Col. Clarkson helped Sgt. Reed up the riverbank when the Japanese machineguns opened up. Sgt. Reed then pulled Lt. Col. Clarkson to cover when the latter was hit by a burst of machinegun fire.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 19 (1944)
Born: 24 September 1918
Home of Record: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Death: 14 December 1987 at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Interred: Sewickley Cemetery, Sewickley, Pennsylvania

 

Served with 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf., possibly Co. A; WIA at Buna, New Guinea; earned Purple Heart.

SaidorX

612.   

Reese, Frank H.

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company K, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 November 1942
Citation Needed: “Frank H. Reese, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Reese earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 18 November 1942 near Simemi, New Guinea. An unaccredited article in the Telegraph-Herald on 4 Jun. ‘45 summarized his actions; “he and two other men discovered a Japanese machine gun ambush and wiped it out,” saving many lives.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 3 (1943)
Born: 1913 at Michigan
Home of Record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

 

He entered service 30 Apr. ‘41 at Milwaukee, WI; SN 36209691; he was WIA 27 Nov. ‘42; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 53 (1943), which may indicate an additional award.

BunaX

613.   

Reigel, Victor J.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 November 1942
Citation Needed: “Victor Reigel, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Reigel earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 18 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. A dispatch by war correspondent Robert J. Doyle in the Milwaukee Journal on 26 Apr. ’43 summarized his actions, “Sergt. Victor Reigel of Marshfield won a silver star for his courage and coolness. The first day the Americans attacked Japanese positions near Cape Endaiadere. When an unseen enemy machine gun temporarily stopped his company, Reigel moved ahead exposing himself to heavy fire to discover the location of the machine gun. He then silenced the enemy gun enabling his company to reorganize for a second attack.” saving many lives.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 15 (1943)
Born: 26 February 1917 at Town of Lincoln, Wood County, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Richfield, Wisconsin

Death: 6 March 2016 at Marshfield, Wisconsin

Interred: Saint Kilian Cemetery, Blenker, Wisconsin

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. C, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Marshfield, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20649267; WIA on 30 Dec. ’42; also earned Purple Heart; discharged 12 Oct. ‘44; brother Hubert W. served in Navy in Pacific during WWII; married, father of 6; farmed at Milladore, WI, later moved to Marshfield, WI; member of St. Kilian’s Catholic Church, Blenker, Knights of Columbus Christ the King Council 4646, Junction City; life member of VFW and American Legion.

BunaX

614.   

Reising, Edward L.

Private, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 17 November 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Reising earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a medic on 17 November 1942 near Pongani, New Guinea.
General Orders:
Born: 1920 at Ohio
Home of Record: Cuyahoga County, Ohio

 

Married; entered service 18 Dec. ‘41 at Ft. Hayes, OH; SN 15072386; received the decoration from Lt. Gen. Robert L. Eichelberger ca. 13 Feb. ‘43.

BunaX

615.   

Revak, Joseph

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Joseph Revak, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to a military news release summarized in the Uniontown Morning Herald on 11 May ‘45, T. Sgt. Revak earned the Silver Star, in part, for his work to clear a heavily mined road.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1945)
Born: 13 July 1924 at Cardale, Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Masontown, Pennsylvania

Death: 18 December 2010 at Uniontown, Pennsylvania

Interred: LaFayette Memorial Park, Brier Hill, Pennsylvania

 

Graduated Uniontown H. S. in ‘42; Aitape, Leyte, Luzon; also earned CIB; brothers M. Sgt. John and Cpl. Michael also served; married, father of 1; worked for Fike Chevrolet for 40 years; member of Saint Mary Assumption Byzantine Catholic Church, New Salem, and Newboro Indians Social Club; member and Past Chaplain of Fort Mason Post No. 423 of American Legion; member of Faith-Gray-McArdle Post No. 4584 of VFW.

 

616.   

Reynolds, Clifford Henry

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 April 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Clifford H. Reynolds, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to a news release from Allied HQ, Southwest Pacific, on 22 April, “On April 1, Reynolds, with four enlisted men, again landed and entered Bogadjim to reconnoiter gun positions which had been firing at Allied coastal patrols.” It was “an amphibious patrol operation far behind enemy lines in New Guinea,” put ashore by PT boats. Other members of patrol were T. Sgt. Alfred B. McNally, S. Sgt. Floyd E. Bryant, Tec. 5 Wallace W. Saage, Pfc. William J. Bailard. All were reportedly recommended for Silver Star; Reynolds and Saage definitely earned it for the patrol, McNally earned it but circumstances are unknown to me, no information for decoration of Bailard or Bryant.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (1944)
Born: circa 1918
Home of Record: Harlowton, Montana

 

Graduated Harlowton H. S. in ‘37; worked at Montana Flour Mills, Harlowton, MT; enlisted in Co. D, 163D Inf., 41ST Div., Montana National Guard; mobilized with them on 16 Sep. ‘40; SN 20929345; brother Hugh Z. served with same unit; fought at Buna-Sanananda, New Guinea; completed OCS at Camp Cable, Australia; commissioned 2d Lt. on 29 Jun. ‘43; assigned to 126TH Inf.; ca. the end of Mar. ‘44, he led a patrol, accompanied by 2 natives, put ashore by PT boats near Bogadjim, New Guinea, to ascertain enemy strength, they reported that there didn’t appear to be large numbers of Japanese in the area (where they had a strong presence for the past 2 years); promoted to 1st Lt. on 4 Jul. ‘44; also earned Presidential Unit Citation, CIB; arrived at Army Ground and Service Forces Redistribution Station, Santa Barbara, CA, ca. 17 Apr. ‘45; home for 2 weeks of leave in Aug. ‘45 before reporting back to Camp Wood, TX; promoted to Capt.; brother Dale W. and 2 other brothers also served.

SaidorX

617.   

Reynolds, James

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James Reynolds, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

618.   

Reynolds, Paul S.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Paul S. Reynolds, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 19 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

619.   

Rhoades, Orville F.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Orville F. Rhoades, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

620.   

Richard, Bennie J.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Bennie J. Richard, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 274 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

621.   

Richards, James W.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Battery A, 120TH Field Artillery Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James W. Richards, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” A military press release, summarized in the Arizona Republic on 15 Jul. ‘45, stated: “Lieutenant Richards was with a forward observation group on the Villa Verde trail in Northern Luzon, when the Japs began a concentrated attack on his position, preceding it with an intense mortar and artillery barrage. Although shells were falling within 25 yards of his shallow slit trench, the officer raised himself above ground level and contacted his artillery battalion by telephone. He asked for a barrage on all avenues of approach to the American positions, and subsequently directed fire so that at times the shells were falling only 25 yards away in a ravine which offered enemy cover. Lieutenant Richards reorganized his party, despite casualties, and arranged for artillery fire throughout the night.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 182 (1945)

Born:

Home of Record: Phoenix, Arizona

 

Attended Phoenix Union H. S., Phoenix Junior College; depicted with Cpl. Estel C. Gamblin and Pfc. Manuel D. Lopez standing next to a 105mm howitzer at Luzon, Philippines in Signal Corps photograph ca. 20 May ‘45; promoted to 1st Lt.; also earned Philippine Liberation Medal.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

VVTX

622.   

*Richards, Roland C.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 July 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Roland C. Richards, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Sgt. Richards’ actions were summarized in a 32D Division dispatch thusly: “When his squad leader was wounded during an enemy attack, in a recent action, Richards assumed command without hesitation.   He ordered his squad to withdraw from their positions to avoid the overwhelming power of a Japanese onslaught.   Advancing toward the enemy to provide fire to cover the movement of his unit, he also attempted to rescue a wounded comrade. Exposing himself to the withering Nip firepower. Sgt. Richards was killed just as he reached the man. His courageous action made it possible for the remainder of the squad to complete its movement without a casualty.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 81 (1944)
Born: 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Oconto, Wisconsin

Death: 27 July 1944 near Aitape, New Guinea

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He graduated Oconto H. S. in ‘40; was Pvt. in Co. C, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Oconto, WI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20646322; promoted to Sgt. after Buna; also earned Purple Heart; in his last letter home, written on 3 Jul. ‘44, he stated he was 1 of only 8 original members of Co. C.

AitapeX

623.   

Richardson, Albert M.

Private, U.S. Army
Company A, 107TH Medical Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Albert M. Richardson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 25 (1945)
Born: 1922 at Michigan
Home of Record: Bay City, Michigan

 

Married; Pvt. in Co. A, 107TH Med. Regt., Michigan National Guard, in Bay City, MI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20638817; also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart.

 

624.   

Richardson, Harry Leonard, Jr.

Captain, U.S. Army
Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Unconfirmed – Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Harry L. Richardson, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Richardson earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 5 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 65 (1943)
Born: 15 July 2017
Home of Record: Ashland, Virginia

Death: 30 September 2016

Interred: Salem Baptist Church Cemetery, Sparta, Virginia

 

Richardson, Harry Leonard, Jr.

Captain, U.S. Army
Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed:

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 60 (1945)
Born: 15 July 2017
Home of Record: Ashland, Virginia

Death: 30 September 2016

Interred: Salem Baptist Church Cemetery, Sparta, Virginia

 

Graduated Virginia Polytechnic Institute in ‘39; commissioned 2d Lt. in Reserve; Cdr. of Co. C, 126TH Inf. at Buna, New Guinea; served with HQ, 3D Bn., 126TH Inf. at Leyte, Philippines; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC, CIB; served with 126TH Inf. for 41 mos. from Camp Livingston to New Guinea and the Philippines; promoted to Maj.; married, father of 3; worked for Standard Oil for 42 years, including an independent dealership in Falls Church, VA; after he retired, they resided at Warsaw and Richmond, VA.

 

His 2nd award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

625.   

Richell, Bennie Bernard

Private, U.S. Army
Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 November 1942
Citation Needed: “Bennie B. Richell, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Richell earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. A military press release in the Arizona Republic on 1 Apr. ‘43 stated that he and Pfc. William H. Oliver ran through heavy mortar and sniper fire to rescue a wounded comrade.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6 (1943)
Born: 22 November 1912 at Illinois
Home of Record: Muskegon, Michigan

Death: 13 June 1980

Interred: Beth Israel Cemetery, Phoenix, Arizona

 

Jewish; also had ties to Chicago, IL; Cpl. in Co. G, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Muskegon, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20635144; sailed from San Francisco 22 Apr. ‘42 aboard SS Lurline; landed at Adelaide, Australia 14 May ‘42; marched over Owen Stanley Mountains; WIA; also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart; promoted to Sgt.; attended U. of Mich. ca. ‘46; moved to AZ in ‘52; worked as real estate broker; member of Temple Beth Israel and Jewish War Veterans.

BunaX

626.   

Ridge, Clyde

Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 31 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Ridge earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 31 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders:
Born: 1 November 1918 at Oklahoma
Home of Record: Pierce, Oklahoma

Death: 2 October 1948

Interred: Pierce Cemetery, Pierce, Oklahoma

 

He entered service 8 Jan. ‘42 at Ft. Sill, OK; SN 38062627; also earned Purple Heart; home on furlough ca. 12 Oct. ‘44, 1st time in 29 mos.; also served with 102D Armd. Inf. Tng. Bn.; 3 brothers also served; passed away 2 Oct. ‘48 in CA, killed by a drunk driver.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

627.   

Rief, Robert Courtney ‘Bob’

Private, U.S. Army
Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Rief earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 6 December 1942 near Soputa-Sanananda, New Guinea. His citation was summarized by the Daily Telegram on 25 Mar. ‘43: “Private Rief was with a company holding a roadblock on the Soputa-Sanananda Track Dec. 6 [‘Huggins’ Roadblock’]. Under heavy enemy fire he voluntarily advanced ahead of his company position through an open field to aid a wounded soldier and brought him back 35 yards to medical aid out of the danger zone.”
General Orders:
Born: 17 January 1924 at Grand Rapids, Michigan
Home of Record: Grandville, Michigan

Death: 11 June 1970 at Grand Rapids, Michigan

Interred: Resurrection Cemetery, Wyoming, Michigan

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. I, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20635579; received Silver Star from Maj. Gen. William H. Gill during ceremony on 23 Jul. ‘43; also earned Purple Heart; promoted to S. Sgt.; married, father of 1.

BunaX

628.   

*Riggs, Clarence Earl

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Service Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Clarence E. Riggs, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 36 (1945)
Born: 20 February 1917
Home of Record: Morgantown, West Virginia

Death: 11 February (9 February) 1945 near San Isidro, Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Grafton National Cemetery, Grafton, West Virginia

Status: DOW

 

Attended W. Va. U. ca. ‘39; SN O-395939; leader of Ammunition and Pioneer Plt., 3D Bn., 127TH Inf. at Buna, New Guinea; later served with Service Co., 127TH Inf.; WIA 8 Feb. (9 Feb.) ’45.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

629.   

*Rinehart, Howard D.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Howard D. Rinehart, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1945)
Born: 19 September 1921
Home of Record: Yakima, Washington

Death: 14 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Tahoma Cemetery, Yakima, Washington

Status: KIA

 

Married, father of 1; enlisted in Wash. Nat. Guard; Pfc. in Co. H, 161ST Inf., 41ST Div., Yakima, WA, when mobilized 16 Sep. ‘40; commissioned at some point; SN O-1300385.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

630.   

Ritter, Leonard Bruno

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, Company E, and/or Anti-tank Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: His family believes he earned the Silver Star, but I have not been able to confirm it.

General Orders:
Born: 
Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

 

Also earned Bronze Star.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

631.   

*Roberson, Thomas Hope ‘T. H.’

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Thomas H. Roberson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 188 (1945)
Born: 8 July 1920 at Morgan Mill, Texas
Home of Record: Hamilton, Texas

Death: 18 April 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Gentry’s Mill Cemetery, Hamilton, Texas

Status: KIA

 

Attended Gentry’s Mill H. S.; entered service at Abilene, TX on 18 Jul. ‘42; SN 38134586; trained at Camp Roberts, CA and Camp Butner, NC; WIA in ‘44 at Leyte, Philippines.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

632.   

Robertson, Robert L.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert L. Robertson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 78 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

633.   

Robinet, Alex J., Jr.

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Alex J. Robinet, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 188 (1945)
Born: 31 August 1915
Home of Record: Fort Thomas, Kentucky

Death: 2 February 1968 at Bethesda, Maryland

Interred: Arlington National Cemetery

 

Everyone else in his family seems to have spelled their surname as “Robinette;” enlisted as cavalry Pvt. at Fort Thomas, KY ca. ‘35; attained rank of 1st Sgt. before being commissioned; 1st Lt. when he sailed to Australia with 32D Div. in ‘42; Lt. Col. and XO, 128TH Inf. by Luzon; assumed command of 128TH Inf. ca. 30 Aug. ‘45 after Col. Merle H. Howe was killed; present when Gen. Yamashita surrendered at Kiangan, Luzon, on 2 Sep. ‘45; depicted in Signal Corps photographs ca. 2 Sep. ‘45 standing to the left of Gen. Yamashita with Col. Ernest A. Barlow to his right; also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart (possible OLC), Air Medal; served with Army of Occupation, 32D Div. and 25TH Div.; returned to U.S. in ‘47; HQ, U.S. Forces in Austria; assigned to Office of Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel ca. ‘53; retired as Col. in ‘57; brother Hatfield Robinette also served during WWII; married at Bethesda, MD in ‘45 (she served with Red Cross in Europe and Pacific during the war), father of 2; resided at Bethesda, MD; worked as research manager for Martin-Marietta Co.; member of Army-Navy Club, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Chevy Chase, MD.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

634.   

Robinson, Fred Kinsley

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Fred K. Robinson (ASN: 31023219 [or 31026219]), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 114th Engineer Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action near Sanananda, New Guinea, on 6 December 1942.” According to his obituary, Cpl. Robinson rescued wounded comrades during 2 separate incidents; he himself was WIA (shoulder) during 2nd event.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 25 June 1917 at Haverhill, New Hampshire
Home of Record: Haverhill, New Hampshire

Death: 5 February 2011

Interred: Horse Meadow Cemetery, North Haverhill, New Hampshire

 

He attended Haverhill Academy; worked as logger at Dana Fadden Farm in Piermont, NH for 3 years; entered service 9 Jan. ’42 at Ft. Devens, MA; SN 31023219 (31026219); also earned Purple Heart; discharged 20 Nov. ’45; met his future wife while he was recovering from his wounds in hospital near Sydney, Australia; married, father of 2; worked for Charlie White’s General Store and Aldrich’s General Store for over 50 years; founding member, charter member, and 1st Post Commander of Haverhill Memorial VFW Post 5245 at North Haverhill; member of North Haverhill Vol. Fire Dept. for over 25 years.

BunaX

635.   

Robinson, Stewart E.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Stewart E. Robinson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 98 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

636.   

Robinson, Warren R.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Warren R. Robinson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 200 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

637.   

Rodda, Herbert W., Jr.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
32D Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop Mechanized, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Herbert W. Rodda, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4 (1945)
Born: 20 November 1918 at Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Colley, Pennsylvania

Death: 10 September 1993

Interred: Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, Pennsylvania

 

He entered service at Ft. George G. Meade, MD on 20 Jan. ‘42; SN 33135154; earned Silver Star, possibly when he and Pvt. Felix P. Klimas manned a light machinegun during an attack on 32D Cav. Recon. Trp. CP near Mambahoa (Mambahao), Leyte, Philippines which started about 0245 hours on 31 Dec. ’44, “At about 0330I, the firing increased in intensity. The right flank was again subjected to cross fire. The LMG was knocked out of the crew’s hands. They moved to their second alternate position and continued firing. Again the LMG was caught in the fire and both troopers were wounded seriously. Tec. 5 Rodda was shot through the mouth and Pvt. Klimas was wounded in the neck and arm. They were ordered to go within the perimeter for medical attention while others manned the weapon. Instead, they moved to a third alternate position where they were again subjected to intense fire. The gun was again shot from their hands and Tec. 5 Rodda lost two fingers. S/Sgt. Cagle and Tec. 5 William A. Inman dragged them from the gun and manned the weapon themselves.”, his Cdr., Capt. Hermann J. F. Bottcher, S. Sgt. Donald H. Aney and Pvt. John A. Curwin were KIA.

 

638.   

Rogers, Albert F. (Alfred)

Captain, U.S. Army
22D Portable Hospital (attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division)
Date of Action: 16-23 November 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Rogers earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 16-23 November 1942 near Hariko, New Guinea. The citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle, of the Milwaukee Journal, in a war-time dispatch from overseas on 9 March 1943, “Capt. Rogers, a medical officer, was a member of a portable hospital unit aboard a small coastal vessel which was bombed, strafed, set afire, and sunk half a mile from shore near Cape Sudest Nov. 16.   He saved the life of a fellow officer who could not swim well by towing him to shore through machine gun bullets fired from enemy planes. Throughout the campaign Capt. Rogers served in the portable hospital near the front lines.”

General Orders:
Born: 1902 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Beloit, Wisconsin

 

His father, Philip Rogers from Milwaukee, WI, was also a doctor and had served during WWI; Albert graduated North Division H.S. in Milwaukee; attended Yale U., Rush Med. College and U. of Chicago Med. School; a few references list first name as Alfred, but most refer to him as Albert.

BunaX

639.   

Rodgers, Douglas C. (Rogers)

Private, U.S. Army
Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Rodgers earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 20 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. According to an article in the Adrian Daily Telegram on 15 Feb. ‘43, “Rogers was cited for going even further than volunteering for a hazardous bridge building job near Buna Dec. 20. With other members of a volunteer party he elected to help bring forward a pre- assembled section of a foot bridge to enable attacking troops to secure a bridge-head. While the other men were firmly securing the section, Rogers, instead of returning to the rear as he could have done, picked up an automatic rifle, fired continuously in the enemy positions and gave the other men protection against enemy fire.”
General Orders:
Born: 6 September 1917 at Michigan
Home of Record: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Death: 17 November 1961

Interred: Prairie Home Cemetery, Richland, Michigan

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. C, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Kalamazoo, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634483; also earned Purple Heart.

BunaX

640.   

Roland, Howard L.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Howard L. Roland, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 69 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

641.   

Roof, Shelby M.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 October 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Shelby M. Roof, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Roof earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 18 October 1942 near Pongani, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)
Born: 
Home of Record: Lincoln, Nebraska

 

He entered service ca. Jan. ’42; may have served with 128TH Inf.

BunaX

642.   

Rosenberg, Samuel ‘Sam’

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: According to one death announcement, Sgt. Rosenberg earned the Silver Star, but I have not found any additional information to confirm it.
General Orders:
Born: 1921 at Chicago, Illinois
Home of Record: Coldwater, Michigan

Death: 13 January 2017 at Louisville, Kentucky

Interred: Adath Jeshurun Cemetery

 

He graduated Coldwater H. S. in ‘39; Pvt. in Co. A, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, Coldwater, MI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634097; promoted to Sgt. in May ‘41 at Camp Livingston, LA; WIA, shot in hip; earned Purple Heart; reportedly “the last surviving member of the Co. A, 126TH Inf.”; married, father of 2; served as State President of Jaycees in MI; member of Board of Jewish Hospital for 15 years; moved to Louisville, KY in ‘50s.

 

643.   

*Rosenstein, Milton ‘Milt’ ‘Rosey’

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 November 1944 (presumed)
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Milton Rosenstein, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1945)
Born: 20 June 1920 at Hunter, New York
Home of Record: Ellenville, New York

Death: 28 November 1944

Interred: Hebrew Aid Cemetery, Wawarsing, New York

Status: DOW

 

Jewish; graduated Ellenville H. S. in ‘39, renowned baseball and basketball player; professional baseball player, southpaw for Miami Beach Flamingos; entered service 17 Mar. ‘42; SN 34252651; trained at Camp Blanding, FL; Cpl. home on leave ca. 8 Dec. ‘42, stationed in CA at the time; assigned to 126TH Inf. when he reached the Southwest Pacific; landed at Leyte, Philippines with the Div. on 14 Nov. ‘44; seriously WIA 28 Nov. ‘44 near Hill 1525; DOW 28 Nov. ‘44 at age 24; father notified ca. 29 Mar. ‘45; also earned Purple Heart.

LeyteX

644.   

Rosson, William E.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “William E. Rosson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 129 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

645.   

Rothschild, Paul Warren

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 July 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Paul W. Rothschild, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” His citation, summarized in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on 25 Jan. ‘46, stated that 1st Lt. Rothschild “was in command of a gun mount which suffered a direct hit in the American advance on the island. Despite painful injuries, he placed himself in a position in front of the mount where he was exposed to enemy fire and succeeded in directing the removal of the disabled equipment from a position of extreme danger.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 379 (1945)

Born: 18 February 1918 at St. Louis, Missouri

Home of Record: St. Louis, Missouri

Death: 5 March 2007

Interred: cremated, ashes scattered off the coast of Oceanside, California

 

Graduated U. of Chicago, law, ‘42; entered service as Pvt. at Chicago, IL on 1 Jun. ‘42; SN 36343615; completed FA OCS, Ft. Sill, OK, 24 Sep.-17 Dec. ‘42; commissioned 2d Lt.; served with 32D Div. (1 reference states 33D Div.); served as defense counsel for several courts-martial; New Guinea and Philippines; earned Silver Star and Purple Heart for his actions as arty. off. at Luzon; also earned Bronze Star w/OLC, CIB; promoted to 1st Lt.; father of 6; earned masters degree in history from Washington U. ca. ‘67; VP and General Counsel of World Color Press, St. Louis, MO; moved to LA in ‘70; law professor at USC and later Pepperdine; labor-management arbitrator for 34 years; enjoyed sailing, owned 41’ sloop, Y-KNOT.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

VVTX

646.   

Rowe, Lawrence A.

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company A, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lawrence A. Rowe, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Rowe earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 23 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. The citation was summarized a news release from United Nations Headquarters in Australia on 26 March 1943, “Rowe located an enemy machinegun nest and after blasting it with a grenade wiped out the Japanese gunners with rifle fire.”   Pvt. John E. Deal, while convalescing at Percy Jones Gen. Hosp., told the Battle Creek Enquirer ca. 4 Apr. ‘43, “I saw Corp. Lawrence A. Rowe as a bullet pierced his helmet and creased his head. Before he was hit, Rowe tossed the grenades which put the machine gunners out of action. After he was hit he took off his helmet and looked at the hole in it and then put the helmet back on, picked up his gun and started firing again. He didn’t pay any attention to the wound, but kept pressing after the Japs until finally he toppled over in a faint.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4 (1943)
Born: 7 March 1917 at Indiana
Home of Record: Angola, Indiana

Death: 18 November 1987

Interred: Circle Hill Cemetery, Angola, Indiana

 

Pvt. in Co. A, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, Coldwater, MI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634117; brother Pvt. John L. served with same unit; he, Raymond E. Ewers, Kenneth L. Hutchins, Glen W. Parks, Ollie W. Parks, John L. Rowe, left Angola, IN and went to Coldwater, MI to enlist in Mich. Nat. Guard together; promoted to Pfc. ca. 9 Feb. ‘41; home on leave from Camp Livingston, LA ca. 21 Nov. ‘41; promoted to Cpl.; some accounts state he was WIA 23 Nov. ’42 during the event for which he earned the Silver Star, see above, other references state he escaped uninjured but enemy bullets chipped his helmet; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 54 (1943), which may indicate an additional award; married.

BunaX

647.   

Rowe, Richard L.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Richard L. Rowe, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 131 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

648.   

Rowe, Ronald

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: His family believes he served with the 32D Div. and earned the Silver Star, but I have found no further information.

General Orders:

Born: circa 1922 at Michigan

Served in the Pacific ’42-‘45; reportedly also earned Bronze Star; step-brother or half-brother of Pfc. Harry L. Steedman, whom family believes also served with 32D Div. ’42-‘45 and earned Silver Star and Bronze Star.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

649.   

Roy, Lester E.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lester E. Roy, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 117 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

650.   

*Rud, Ralph O. (C.)

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Ralph C. Rud, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 269 (1945)

Born: 14 May 1916 at Coleman, Michigan

Home of Record: Merrill, Michigan

Death: 7 May 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Forest Lawn Cemetery, Saginaw, Michigan

Status: DOW

 

Married, father of 3; SN 36968187.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

651.   

Ruddick, Roger R.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Roger R. Ruddick, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to his obituary, he earned the Silver Star and was WIA in Dec. ’44 at Leyte, Philippines.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 114 (1945)

Born: 1913 at Arkansas

Home of Record: Kansas City, Missouri

Death: 19 March 1986 at Cape Coral, Florida

Interred: Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park, Fort Myers, Florida

 

Married; hometown; worked for Fox Midwest Theatres, manager of Brookside Theater, Kansas City, MO; his wife assumed management of the Brookside when he entered service ca. Oct. ‘43; returned to Fox Midwest Theatres, manager of Isis Theater, Kansas City, MO ca. Mar. ‘46; started a vending company in ‘57; resided at Decatur, IL ca. ‘60s; moved to Cape Coral, FL in ‘65; charter member of Palmetto Pines Country Club.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

LeyteX

652.   

Runnoe, Donald Frank

Captain, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 8 January 1943
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Runnoe earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 8 January 1943 at Tarakena during Battle for Sanananda, New Guinea.   According to an article in the Adrian Daily Telegram on 15 Feb. ‘43, “Capt. [Runnoe’s] gallant action was near Tarakena Jan. 8 when he directed his battalion in the attack which resulted in capture of Tarakena. His intelligent and courageous and daring leadership was to a large extent responsible for the rapid and successful advance which resulted in the capture of this village with a minimum of casualties.”
General Orders:
Born: 5 April 1915 at Greenleaf, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Marinette, Wisconsin or Menominee, Michigan

Death: 19 Feb. 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 DSC for his actions as Capt. and Bn. Cdr. on 2 Jan. ‘43 near Buna, New Guinea (assumed command of Bn. when Maj. Edmund R. Schroeder was KIA); 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.

BunaX

653.   

Rusiecki, Theodore S. ‘Ted’

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Theodore S. Rusiecki, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 22 (1945)

Born: 2 October 1917 at Pennsylvania

Home of Record: Jackson, Michigan

Death: 24 June 1988

Interred: Saint John’s Catholic Cemetery, Jackson, Michigan

 

Son of Polish immigrants; entered service at Kalamazoo, MI on 14 Apr. ‘41; SN 36154822; promoted to Cpl. ca. 13 Sep. ‘41; promoted to T. Sgt.; married.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

654.   

*Russell, Albert Loyal, Jr.

Private, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Alhert L. Russell, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” First name is misspelled ‘Alhert’ on Hall of Valor and Home of Heroes. According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Russell earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 6 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 38 (1943)
Born: 4 September 1919 at Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Death: 7 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Grandview Cemetery, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Status: KIA

 

Entered service 7 Jan. ‘42 at New Cumberland, PA; SN 33118558; trained at Ft. Belvoir, VA.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

655.   

Russell, Alonzo H.

Corporal, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Russell earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 28 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders:
Born: 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 18 March 1990

Interred: Wood National Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

 

He was Pvt. in HQ Co., 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Milwaukee, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20645538.

BunaX

656.   

*Russo, James

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James Russo, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 38 (1945)
Born: 23 January 1923
Home of Record: Cook County, Illinois, possibly Hillside, Illinois

Death: 11 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside, Illinois

Status: KIA

 

SN 36722582.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

657.   

Saage, Wallace William (Sage)

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 April 1944
Citation Needed: “Wallace W. Saage, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to a military press release summarized in the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal on 23 Apr. ‘44, Tec. 5 Saage earned the Silver Star for his actions 1 Apr. ’44. “He was in action in New Guinea and was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry near Bogadjim.” He was a member of “an amphibious patrol operation far behind enemy lines in New Guinea” at Bogadjim, “to reconnoiter gun positions which had been firing at Allied coastal patrols.” Other members of patrol were 2d Lt. Clifford H. Reynolds, T. Sgt. Alfred B. McNally, S. Sgt. Floyd E. Bryant, Pfc. William J. Bailard. All were reportedly recommended for Silver Star; Reynolds and Saage definitely earned it for the patrol, McNally earned it but circumstances are unknown to me, no information for decoration of Bailard or Bryant.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (1944)
Born: 11 December 1916 at Texas
Home of Record: Slaton, Texas

Death: 17 April 1981

Interred: Englewood Cemetery, Slaton, Texas

 

Attended Slayton H. S.; farmed with the family; entered service at Ft. Sill, OK on 17 Jan. ‘42; SN 38063716; trained at Camp Roberts, CA; overseas in Apr. ‘42; sister Marie B. served in WAC in the Pacific during WWII; brother James C. served in Navy in the Pacific during WWII; married.

SaidorX

658.   

Saba, Simon E.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
32D Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Simon E. Saba, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Tec. 5 Saba’s citation was summarized in the Wilkes-Barre Record on 1 Oct. ’45: “When with the 32D Inf. Div. in Northern Luzon, a force of 20 Japs attacked a ration dump Corp. Saba was guarding amid the peaks surrounding Balete Pass. Corp. Saba, with two Yanks, obtained five Filipino soldiers and led them in a counterattack, killing six of the enemy and driving the others on. For this action he has been awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry by Maj. Gen. William H. Gill, commander of the 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Inf. Div.   A member of the 32D Cav. Recon. Trp., Corp. Saba was part of a 50-man patrol sent deep inside enemy lines to observe and report on Japanese movements. Corp. Saba was designated to stay behind and help set up a supply point, with rations dropped by plane, while the rest of the patrol continued on. About mid-afternoon three days later, the Japs, who had spotted the rations being parachuted down, made a raid on the dump. The two Americans quickly set up a light machine gun while Saba directed the Filipinos in organizing a force and leading them in an attack which dispersed the enemy.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 49 (1945)
Born: 15 February 1917 at Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Death: 9 June 1991

Interred: Saint Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

 

Son of Syrian immigrants; graduated Meyers H. S.; entered service at New Cumberland, PA on 20 Jan. ‘42; SN 33145197; promoted to Tec. 5, ‘technical corporal’; Saidor, Aitape, Leyte, Luzon; also earned Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal w/3 service stars, Presidential Unit Citation, Philippine Liberation Medal; discharged at Ft. Indiantown Gap, PA ca. 4 Oct. ‘45; brothers William and Alexander also served; sister Louise may have also served.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

VVTX

659.   

Sakas, Julius Albert

Captain, U.S. Army
Company L, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Julius A. Sakas, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 135 (1945)
Born: 31 August 1916 at New Jersey
Home of Record: Passaic County, New Jersey

Death: 15 March 2000 at Escondido, California

Interred:

 

Sakas, Julius Albert

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Earned OLC to Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 41 (1946)
Born: 31 August 1916 at New Jersey
Home of Record: Passaic County, New Jersey

Death: 15 March 2000 at Escondido, California

Interred:

 

He entered service as Pvt. 10 Apr. ‘42 at Newark, NJ; SN 12077434; commissioned 2d Lt. 13 Nov. ‘42; new SN O-33709; Capt. and cdr. of Co. L, 128TH Inf. at Leyte; co-wrote letter of condolence with Chaplain Eugene M. McAlister to parents of T. Sgt. Iven M. Mansfield after he was KIA 28 May ‘45; other awards include Bronze Star w/OLC, PH w/OLC (not sure if he earned them with the 32D Div. or some other unit); Lt. Col. and Senior Instructor of Command and Staff Section of U.S. Army Caribbean School at Ft. Gulick, Panama ca. ‘63; wrote book or manuscript Second Careers for Regular Army Officers in ‘64.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

660.   

*Sandell, Edward Henry

Captain, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edward H. Sandell, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Sandell was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 November 1942 near Buna Mission, New Guinea. His citation was summarized in the Dixon Evening Telegraph on 23 Apr. ‘43: “Captain Sandell was cited for gallantry near Buna Mission, New Guinea, November 30, 1942. The citation said he displayed exceptional courage and heroism by swimming the entrance to a creek for the purpose of observing enemy action prior to the crossing of a small reconnaissance unit by boat. The unit later was able to obtain valuable information.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 7 (1943)
Born: 14 July 1914 (1911) at Chillicothe, Illinois
Home of Record: Beloit, Wisconsin

Death: 25 December (26 December) 1942 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Manila American Cemetery, also memorialized at Toulon Cemetery, Toulon, Illinois

Status: KIA

 

Attended St. Thomas H. S., Rockford, IL; attended U. of Ill. ca. ‘36; according to the Belvidere Daily Republican on 18 Mar. ’36, “A press dispatch from San Francisco today says that Edward Sandell and Anthony Janis, both of Rockford, were released there on their promise to return home and to the University of Illinois, after being caught as stowaways on the S. S. City of Calcutta, bound for India, when the ship was just outside the Golden Gate. They said that they wanted to get to India to study the culture of rubber. They were advised to go back to the university and study it out of books.”; also attended Bradley College; married in ‘37, father of 2; resided at South Beloit, IL at ‘40 census; wife and children resided at 107 7th St., Chillicothe, IL after he deployed; worked as chemist for Fairbanks Morse, Beloit, WI; various references list hometown as Beloit, WI, South Beloit, IL, Dixon, IL, Peoria, IL, or Chillicothe, IL; 2d Lt. in Co. L, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Beloit, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; SN O-385301; promoted to Capt. at some point and assigned Chem. Off. in charge of Chem. Section, HQ, 32D Div.; some references state he served with HQ, 128TH Inf. at some point; he and part of his Chem. Section landed at Port Morseby, New Guinea on 18 Oct. ‘42, “Sandell’s was among the first chemical sections to participate in combat in WWII after the fall of the Philippines.”; attended New Guinea Force school of jungle tactics 8-21 Nov. ‘42, as a student as well as instructor of chemical warfare; he arrived at Buna, New Guinea on 27 Nov. ‘42 “to see if chemical smoke or incendiary supplies would be useful in pushing the attack”; after leading the reconnaissance patrol on 30 Nov. ’42, he returned to Port Moresby where he and 2 of his men, T. Sgt. John K. King, and Sgt. Raymond F. Dasmann, collected various chem. and ord. materials, transported them to Buna on 4 Dec. ‘42, and used them to make improvised explosive devices for the infantry; KIA 25 Dec. (26 Dec.) ‘42 near Buna, New Guinea, by a sniper while attempting to employ 1 of their improvised explosive devices against a bunker; other awards include Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/2 battle stars, CIB.

BunaX

661.   

Sanders, J. C.

Private, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed:
General Orders:
Born: 27 July 1923 at Decatur, County, Georgia
Home of Record: Decatur, County or Grady County, Georgia

Death: 28 July 1944 near Afua, New Guinea

Interred: Pisgah Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, Climax, Georgia

Status: KIA

 

Entered service at Ft. McPherson, GA on 9 Sep. ‘43; SN 34828281; trained at Camp Blanding, FL; brothers Pfc. Herman R. and Pfc. Earl E. also served in Army, brother Otis served in Navy.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

662.   

Sawyer, Gilbert C.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed:
General Orders:
Born: 1918 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Neenah, Wisconsin

 

Family resided at Menasha, WI at ‘20 census; family resided at Neenah, WI at ‘40 census; Sgt. in Co. I, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Neenah, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20647486.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

663.   

Saxton, Boyd E.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed:
General Orders:

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

664.   

Scarfo, Samuel Joseph ‘Sam’

Private, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 29 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Scarfo earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a medic on 29 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. His actions were summarized by Murlin Spencer in a war-time dispatch from overseas on 3 Jul. ‘43 and printed in the Youngstown Vindicator on 4 Jul. ‘43, “Sam Scarfo was only a private in the medical corps, but his act of Christmas Day was termed a “heroic task which was far above the ordinary call of duty.” An American force seeking to cut through enemy lines to the sea was itself cut off and was fighting strongly to forestall being wiped out. Some of its men were wounded badly and were without medical care. Scarfo, four other medics and an officer volunteered to try to break through to the isolated troops to give first aid. And they went unarmed. They made it and went about their acts of mercy, but under enemy fire so heavy that some of the wounded were re-wounded.” An article in the St. Petersburg Times on 4 Jan. ’43 listed the other members of the medical party as Capt. Rafael R. Gamso, Pvt. Ray Jackson, Pfc. Gerald M. McCarthy, and Pfc. Vernon H. Pyles, all of whom were bestowed with the Silver Star for their actions.
General Orders:
Born: 1915 at Ohio
Home of Record: Campbell, Ohio

 

Mother was Italian immigrant; entered service 24 Nov. ‘41 at Cleveland, OH; SN 35047804.

BunaX

665.   

*Schabo, Aaron A.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company D, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 3 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Aaron A. Schabo, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Appleton in World War II summarized Pfc. Schabo’s deeds thusly: “He was on patrol when concealed Japanese killed one of his companions. His return fire wounded two Japs and helped to cover the withdrawal of his wounded corporal. When he was sure his companions were not near him, he threw hand grenades upon the retreating enemy. During this action he was fired upon and killed by an enemy sniper in the trees above him.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Schabo earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 4 January 1943 near Buna.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1943)
Born: 4 July 1914 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Appleton, Wisconsin

Death: 3 January 1943

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Son of German immigrants; graduated Appleton H. S. in ‘34; Pvt. in Co. D, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Appleton, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20646557; KIA during same patrol as Pfc. Joe H. Rainwater; also earned Purple Heart; Silver Star presented to his sister, Gertrude Schabo, on 8 Sep. ‘43.

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666.   

*Schane, Lyle F.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company G, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 April 1944
Citation Needed: A 32D Division dispatch signed by Maj. Gen. Gill, the Division Commander, appeared in the Waukesha Freeman on 5 Jul. ‘44 and summarized S. Sgt. Schane’s actions thusly: He “was second in command of a platoon of infantry which made a successful landing on a small coastal island [Ali Island near Aitape, New Guinea]. After the initial landing the platoon was divided into combat patrols, one of which was headed by the staff sergeant. His patrol proceeded through the dense tropical jungle but did not contact the enemy until after dark. Twilight is of short duration in the tropics and darkness comes quickly. This night, before Schane [was able to] properly set up his perimeter of defense, the Japanese struck with rifle and mortar fire. They gained the important element of surprise and soon the patrol, many of them under fire for the first time, was disorganized. Moving quickly from man to man continually exposing himself to enemy fire he gave instructions and encouragement to each individual and soon gained control of the disorganized element. Disregarding his own safety, Staff Sergeant Schane moved ahead of the main body deliberately exposing himself to enemy fire in an effort to gain knowledge of the enemy’s exact position, according to Gen. Gill. He failed to draw fire in his first attempt.   Again he moved forward fully exposed to the enemy and came within five yards of their position when he was shot by a sniper. The patrol, enraged by the death of their leader, launched a determined attack which inflicted many casualties and completely dislodged the enemy.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1944)
Born: 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Waukesha, Wisconsin

Death: 25 April 1944 near Aitape, New Guinea

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. G, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Oconomowoc, WI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20647160; also earned Purple Heart.

AitapeX

667.   

Scheef, Robbie H.

Private, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 3D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Scheef earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 2 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 19 March 1920 at Millard, Nebraska
Home of Record: Millard, Nebraska

Death: 26 Jan. ’98 at Spalding, Nebraska

Interred: Saint Michael’s Cemetery, Spalding, Nebraska

 

Entered service Jan. ‘42; SN 37139132; some references list unit as HQ Co., 32D Div.; promoted to Sgt.; discharged Jan. ‘45; married.

BunaX

668.   

Schlessman, Learville Newton

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
2D Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Technical Sergeant Learville Newton Schlessman, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to a brief statement in the Neosho Daily News on 19 Apr. ’45, Sgt. Schlessman earned the Silver Star for his actions at Leyte, Philippines.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (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 DSC for his actions on 25 May ‘45 along the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, 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.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

LeyteX

669.   

Schmidt, Edward J.

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: January 1943
Citation Needed: According to his obituary, Lt. Col. Schmidt earned the Silver Star for his actions near Tarakena, New Guinea in Jan. ‘43.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1944)
Born: 30 June 1893 at Chicago, Illinois
Home of Record: Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Death: 18 September 1970

Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc, Wisconsin

 

He enlisted in Co. H, 2D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Manitowoc, WI as a Pvt. on 10 Jun. ‘10; was 1st Lt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; cdr. of that unit when mobilized 15 Jul. ‘17; unit left for Camp Douglas, WI on 27 Jul. ‘17; assigned cdr. of Co. I when 127TH Inf. was organized; sailed to France on USS George Washington; WIA and gassed twice; earned Purple Heart; earned citation for unusual bravery from Gen. Pershing; Lt. Col. and cdr. of 1ST Bn., 127TH Inf. when mobilized 15 Oct. ‘40; Lt. Col. and cdr. of 127TH Inf. when it deployed to Buna; succeeded as cdr. of 127TH Inf. by Col. John E. Grose and reverted to XO; also earned CIB; contracted malaria; assigned to duties in Australia; returned to U.S. at end of ‘45 and separated in early ‘46; attained rank of Col.; long-term member of numerous veteran, fraternal, and benevolent organizations.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

670.   

Schmidt, Marvin F.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders:

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

671.   

Schramel, Anthony John ‘Anton’

Major, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders:

Born: circa 1906 at Wisconsin

Home of Record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 17 November 1950 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Interred:

 

Son of Bohemian immigrants; married in ‘33, father of 2; graduated Marquette U. Med. School in ‘33; interned at St. Mary’s Hosp., Milwaukee, WI; resided at 3225 N. 50th St., Milwaukee, WI at ‘40 census; Capt. in Med. Det., 126TH FA Regt., Wisconsin National Guard, Milwaukee, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; also earned American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/3 service stars, WWII Victory Medal; promoted to Maj.; discharged 18 Jan. ‘46; returned to med. practice at Milwaukee, WI; deputy health commissioner ca. ’48.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

672.   

Schwartz, Paul L.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, 2d Lt. Schwartz earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 2 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. His actions were summarized in the Windsor Daily Star on 3 Apr. ’43, “Schwartz was decorated for leadership and courage December 2 during an attack on Buna village, the citation said, adding: “Disregarding his own safety, he led reconnaissance missions, and conducted mopping up operations in an inspiring manner.””
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 50 (1942)
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.; 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; earned the DSC for his actions 5 Dec. ’42 near Buna Village (some references state or imply it was ca. 18-21 Dec. near Tarakena, New Guinea); seriously WIA 21 Dec. (22 Dec.) ‘42; family notified 5 Jan. ‘43; DSC citation was broadcast on radio 12 Jan. ‘43.

BunaX

673.   

Scovell, Bernard E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: According to the Eau Claire Leader on 22 Jun. ‘44, Pfc. Scovell was “cited for gallantry in action near Saidor, New Guinea, last January [‘44]
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 41 (1944)
Born: 5 February 1920 at South Dakota
Home of Record: Colfax, Wisconsin

Death: 13 February 1951, KIA in ‘Massacre Valley’ near Hoengsong, Korea

Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Colfax, Wisconsin

 

Family resided at Waukegan, IL at ‘30 census; Pvt. in Co. A, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Menomonie, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20648863; promoted to Pfc.; brother Tec. 5 Hugh A. served with a Cav. unit in Europe and was WIA; enlisted in Regular Army; SN RA20648863; promoted to Sgt.; served during Korean War with HQ Co., 3D Bn., 38TH Inf., 2D Inf. Div.; earned Bronze Star w/V for his actions 6 Sep. ‘50 near Changnyong, Korea, “On this date Sergeant Scovell, with his wire crew, was proceeding in a jeep upon an official mission under intense small arms, mortar, and artillery fire. As the vehicle was moved across the open terrain, the enemy scored a direct mortar hit upon the front of the jeep. Two members of the crew were slightly wounded and succeeded in withdrawing from the area. A third member of the wire crew received blast concussion and a broken right ankle. Disregarding his personal safety, Sergeant Scovell stayed behind to protect his comrade with fire and eventually was able to move the wounded man to a position where he had slight cover from the enemy small arms fire which was raking the area. Although still under enemy observation he remained with the wounded man until they were both safely evacuated. Sergeant Scovell’s courageous action on this occasion reflects the greatest of credit upon himself and the military service.” (HQ 2D Inf. Div., G. O. No. 68, 17 Oct. ‘50); seriously WIA 8 Sep. ‘50; returned to duty 5 Oct. ‘50; KIA 13 Feb. ‘51 in ‘Massacre Valley’ near Hoengsong, Korea.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

SaidorX

674.   

Searfoss, Ernest R. ‘Ernie’

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company M, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Ernest R. Searfoss (ASN: 36114846), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action near Government Gardens, New Guinea, on 1 January 1943.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 30 December 1914 at Detroit, Michigan
Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 6 December 2012 at Saginaw, Michigan

Interred:

 

He entered service 8 May ‘41 at Detroit, MI; SN 36114846; promoted to 1st Sgt.; participated in War Bond drives ca. spring ‘45; honorably discharged 28 Jun. ‘45 at Ft. McPherson, GA; other awards include other awards include Bronze Star w/OLC, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, WWII Victory Medal, Distinguished Unit Citation, and CIB; married, father of 1.

BunaX

675.   

Seigler, Herbert Reeves

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders:
Born: 13 March 1920 at Colleton County, South Carolina
Home of Record: Colleton County, South Carolina

Death: 1 May 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Bedon Baptist Church Cemetery, Walterboro, South Carolina

Status: KIA

 

Entered service at Ft. Jackson, SC on 17 Jul. ‘42; SN 34128374; overseas 25 Dec. ‘42.

 

676.   

*Sharp, Leland Laver (L. Laver)

Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Leland L. Sharp, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Sharp earned the Silver Star (posthumously) for gallantry in action 27 December 1942 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.   An article in the News-Palladium on 18 Feb. ’49 stated he was fatally wounded during his attempt (along with Sgt. Bernard F. Clarke) to rescue a wounded U.S. officer behind Japanese lines on 2 Dec. ‘42. That officer may have been 1st Lt. Hershel G. Horton at ‘Huggins’ Roadblock.’
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)
Born: 15 Feb. ‘14 at Ohio
Home of Record: Montgomery, Michigan

Death: 2 December 1942

Interred: Columbia Cemetery, Edon, Ohio

Status: KIA

 

He also had ties to Columbia, OH and Steuben Co., IN; SN 36113030; married at Edon, OH on 15 Feb. ‘41; entered service 25 Apr. ‘41 at Detroit, MI; SN 36113030; wife notified ca. 28 Feb. ‘43, she resided at Hamilton, IN at the time; wife received his Silver Star at Haer Field, Fort Wayne, IN ca. 31 Dec. ’43.

BunaX

677.   

*Shaw, Robert

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 19 July 1944
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Robert Shaw (ANS: 36164270), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 32d Infantry Division in action near Afua, New Guinea, on 19 July 1944. Sergeant Shaw furnished covering fire for another soldier who was removing a wounded man to safety. It was necessary for the rescuer to carry the wounded soldier over an area exposed to enemy fire. Sergeant Shaw deliberately exposed himself to fire at an enemy machine gun, in an effort to divert the fire of the gun to himself and away from the wounded man and his rescuer. In the exchange of fire Sergeant Shaw was mortally wounded. He gave his life in order to protect his comrades.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. No. 80 (22 September 1944)
Born: 1917
Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 19 July 1944 near Afua, New Guinea

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He entered service 12 Dec. ‘41 at Ft. Custer, MI; SN 36164270; also earned Purple Heart.

AitapeX

678.   

Shea, David Edward

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company B, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders:
Born: 13 June 1920 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home of Record: St. Louis, Missouri

Death: 19 September 2011 at St. Louis, Missouri

Interred: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, Lemay, Missouri

 

Also earned Purple Heart w/OLC; married, father of 3; worked for Defense Mapping Agency, worked on camera equipment that went to moon during Apollo missions; volunteered St. Louis Science Center, St. Vincent dePaul Society, American Red Cross, Scoutmaster with Boy Scout troop at St. Kevin’s Parish.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

679.   

Shearer, Robert M. (Schearer)

Private, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 3D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Shearer (Schearer) earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 2 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 1918 at Mississippi
Home of Record: Indianola, Mississippi

Death: 1946

Interred: Drew Cemetery, Sunflower County, Mississippi

 

He entered service 12 Sep. ’41 at Camp Shelby, MS; SN 34133128.

BunaX

680.   

Shields, Herbert Berzelious, Jr.

Major, U.S. Army
2D Field Hospital
Date of Action: 7 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Medical Corps) Herbert B. Shields, Jr., United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Officer assigned to the 2d Field Hospital at [Simemi], New Guinea, on 7 December 1942.   Major Shields cared for the sick and wounded, working courageously and fearlessly, entirely oblivious of his personal safety, while continually being bombed and strafed by enemy planes.   Major Shields’ gallant actions and dedicated devotion to his fellow man, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: The Military Surgeon, March 1943
Born: 28 June 1912
Home of Record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 22 May 2001

Interred: Memorial Park Cemetery, Enid, Oklahoma

 

Originally from Enid, OK; Graduated U. of Okla. Coll. of Med. in ‘37; interned at Columbia Hosp., Milwaukee, WI ca. ‘37; 1st Lt. in Med. Det., 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Milwaukee, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; assigned acting 32D Div. Surgeon ca. May ‘43; practiced ophthalmology at MacMillin Institute, St. Louis, MO ca. ‘47; married.

BunaX

681.   

*Shirley, John D.

Captain, U.S. Army
Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: probably somewhere between 30 November to 2 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “John D. Shirley, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Victory in Papua, Capt. Shirley’s leadership and heroism were a vital contribution to the creation of ‘Huggins’ Roadblock’ on 30 November near Sanananda, New Guinea.   He was KIA on 2 December while holding the roadblock in the face of strong Japanese counterattacks.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 41 (1944)
Born: 16 May 1915 at Michigan
Home of Record: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 2 December 1942 at ‘Huggins’ Roadblock’

Interred: Rosedale Memorial Park, Tallmadge, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Son of English immigrants; married; Pvt. in Co. L, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20635949; commissioned at some point; new SN O-402649; marched over Owen Stanley Mountains; Capt. and Cdr. of Co. I, 126TH Inf. at Buna; co-led, with Capt. Roger Keast, bayonet charge through swamp between Soputa and Sanananda, New Guinea, on 30 Nov. ‘42 during attack which led to establishment of ‘Huggins’ Roadblock’; wife received his Silver Star from Col. William H. McCarty, 6TH Service Command, during a ceremony on 25 Nov. ‘44 at the 728TH MP Bn. parade ground at Spinoza Dr. and Joy Rd., Detroit, MI; namesake of Capt. John Shirley Post of American Legion, Grand Rapids, MI.

BunaX

682.   

Sigwell, Russell Eldon

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company L, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Russell E. Sigwell, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, S. Sgt. Sigwell earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 18 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 15 February 1917 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Beloit, Wisconsin

Death: 28 April 1977 at Decatur, Georgia

Interred: Oakwood Cemetery, Beloit, Wisconsin

 

Married; Sgt. in Co. L, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Beloit, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; SN 20650823; completed OCS at Brisbane, Australia, and commissioned in ‘44; new SN O-2036080; also earned Bronze Star, CIB; may have also served with Allied Translator and Interpreter Service (ATIS); joined Regular Army; stationed in HI ca. ‘53; Maj. assigned assistant chief of training division, Tenn. Military District, ca. 23 Aug. ‘57, resided at 3827 West End Ave., Nashville, TN; attained rank of Lt. Col.

BunaX

683.   

Simborski, John J.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “John J. Simborski, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)
Born: 3 May 1908 at Herkimer, New York
Home of Record: Herkimer, New York

Death: 1993

Interred: Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, New York

 

Married, father of at least 1; resided at 343 Eureka Ave., Herkimer, NY; enlisted in Co. I, 10TH NY Inf., New York National Guard, 19 Mar. ‘28; Sgt. in same unit when mobilized 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20270701; 10TH Inf. redesignated 106TH Inf. when 27TH Div. was mobilized.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

684.   

*Simmons, Leonard Troyless

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company H, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Leonard T. Simmons, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 320 (1945)
Born: 1 June 1918
Home of Record: Waldron, Michigan

Death: 30 Apr. ’45 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Waldron Cemetery, Waldron, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Entered service on 28 Apr. ‘41; SN 36155932; also earned Purple Heart; namesake of Leonard T. Simmons Post No. 5191 of VFW at Waldron, MI.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

685.   

Simmons, Robert H.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 2D Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert H. Simmons, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Simmons earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 25 December 1942 at Government Gardens near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 15 (1943)
Born: 4 January 1919 at Ripon, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Ripon, Wisconsin

Death: 22 February 2005

Interred: Woodlawn Cemetery, Ripon, Wisconsin, or Forest Mound Cemetery, Waupun, Wisconsin

 

Graduated Ripon H. S.; attended Tool & Die School, Chicago, IL; Pvt. in HQ & HQ Det., 2D Bn., 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Ripon, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; married, father of 3; worked for Ripon Knitting Works for 34 years; member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, VFW and American Legion.

BunaX

686.   

Simpson, James B.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James B. Simpson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 114 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

687.   

Singer, Myron H.

Captain, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 24 May 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Myron H. Singer, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to his obituary, Capt. Singer earned the Silver Star for “gallantry in action in Luzon, Philippine Islands on 24 May ’45.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 237 (1945)

Born: 15 March 1918 at Bronx, New York

Home of Record: Brooklyn, New York

Death: 5 May 2005 at Kingston, New York

Interred: Montrepose Cemetery, Kingston, New York

 

Father was Russian immigrant; Jewish; entered service at Ft. Jay, NY on 27 May ‘42; SN 32344641; commissioned at some point; also earned Purple Heart; attained rank of Capt.; married on 18 Jan. ’48, father of 3; they owned Lillie Hand Décor, Hewlett, Long Island, for 43 years, he designed and manufactured plexiglass bathroom accessories for the business; resided at Forrest Hills, Queens, NY; resided at Gibson, NY for 31 years; moved to Kingston, NY in ‘80; member of Temple Emanuel, Kingston.

VVTX

688.   

Singleton, Darrell John

Corporal, U.S. Army
32D Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Darrell J. Singleton, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)
Born: 16 March 1919 at Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Death: 9 August 1988 at Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Interred: Ledgeview Memorial Park, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

 

Father was Pfc. with Co. M, 21ST Engr. Regt. during WWI; enlisted in Co. M, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Fond du Lac, WI; depicted in Milwaukee Journal photo kissing his fiancée, Mildred Rost, on Governor’s Day during annual encampment 18 Aug. ‘40 at Camp McCoy; Pfc. when mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20648128; assigned to 32D Recon. Trp., later 32D Cav. Recon. Trp. Mech., he was squad leader in the unit ca. Jul. ‘43 in Australia; brother Armand L. served with 1753D Svc. Cmd. during WWII; married.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

689.   

Siratt, Kenneth

Corporal, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Kenneth Siratt, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 127 (1945)
Born: 26 March 1918 at Saginaw, Arkansas
Home of Record: Hot Springs, Arkansas

Death: 3 April 2010 at Idaho Falls, Idaho

Interred: Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery, Idaho Falls, ID, also memorialized at Mesquite Cemetery, Mesquite, Texas

 

Attended Hot Springs H. S.; trained at Camp Wolters, TX; initially assigned to 69TH Div.; also earned Bronze Star; discharged in ‘46; joined Army Reserve in ‘57; retired as 1st Lt. in ‘78 after 26 years of service in Army, Reserve, and Nat. Guard; married, father of 2; resided at New Boston, TX; moved to Idaho Falls, ID in Nov. ‘06; member of Eagle Rock Baptist Church; enjoyed hunting and fishing.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

690.   

Skinner, Clare E.

Private, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 January 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Clare E. Skinner, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Pvt. Skinner almost certainly earned the Silver Star 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 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 bridgehead, on 28 Jan. ’44. The patrol killed 43 Japanese soldiers, but suffered 8 killed, 6 MIA, and 9 WIA. It is not certain, but he may have been 1 of the last 8 members of 1st Lt. George J. Hess’ group able to make it back across the river after dark.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 41 (1944)
Born: 1920
Home of Record: Grand Rapids, Michigan

 

He entered service 29 Sep. ‘42 at Kalamazoo, MI; SN 36402276.

SaidorX

691.   

Skyee, Karl

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 3D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942
Citation Needed: “Kark Skyee, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Skyee earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 2 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea. Name is misspelled ‘Kark’ on Hall of Valor and Home of Heroes.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 3 March 1910 near Ironton, Michigan
Home of Record: Boyne City, Michigan

Death: 25 December 2000 at Boyne City, Michigan

Interred: Maple Lawn Cemetery, Boyne City, Michigan

 

He graduated Boyne City H. S. in ’30; member of 673D Co., CCC, at Camp Wolverine at Springvale or Clarion, MI; worked at a tannery before he entered service at Kalamazoo, MI on 24 Apr. ‘41; SN 36155698; may have also served with Co. L, 126TH Inf.; worked for Ford at Dearborn; moved back to Boyne City after retirement in ‘72; life member of Post No. 3675 of VFW; active member of First Baptist Church of Boyne City; married.

BunaX

692.   

Slick, Howard F.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Howard F. Slick, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 290 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

693.   

Sloop, Robert J.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert J. Sloop, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 76 (1944)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

694.   

*Smith, A. G.

Private, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “A. G. Smith, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to amedd.army.mil, Pvt. Smith was a medic and earned the Silver Star posthumously.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 41 (1944)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

695.   

Smith, Francis W.

, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Francis W. Smith, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 126 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

696.   

Smith, Herbert A.

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
2D Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Lt. Col. Smith earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. The citation was summarized in a news release from United Nations Headquarters in Australia on 26 March 1943, “Smith led an assault on an enemy-held village in the Giropa Point district “with utter disregard for his own safety.””
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4 (1943)
Born: circa 1902 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Oshkosh, Wisconsin

 

Married, father of at least 2; enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard as Pvt. in ‘19; commissioned 2d Lt. in ‘23; promoted 1st Lt. in ‘25; promoted Capt. in ‘27; promoted Maj. in ‘37; promoted Lt. Col. in Aug. ‘40; Lt. Col. and Cdr. of 2D Bn., 128TH Inf. on 15 Oct. ‘40; commanded the unit during First Army Carolina maneuvers Nov. ‘41; depicted in Signal Corps photograph as commander of the unit near Buna on 15 Nov. ‘42; may have also been cited in 32D Div. GO No. 54 (1943) which may indicate an additional award (1 reference suggests he did earn OLC to Silver Star and Bronze Star w/3 OLCs); Chief of Small Arms Committee of the Inf. School, Ft. Benning, GA, ‘45 to ‘47; served in post-war Wis. Nat. Guard; Cdr. of 127TH Inf. ca. ‘47-‘56; promoted Brig. Gen. and Asst. Div. Cdr. in ‘56; promoted Maj. Gen. and Cdr. of 32D Div. on 28 Jun. ‘60; mobilized with 32D Div. to Ft. Lewis, WA during Berlin Crisis; awarded Legion of Merit for his service Oct. ‘61-Aug. ‘62; retired from military on 1 Jul. ‘63; succeeded by Maj. Gen. John A. Dunlap as Cdr. of 32D Div.; worked as superintendent of mails at Oshkosh Post Office ca. ‘61; namesake of Maj. Gen. Herbert A. Smith Scholarship at U. of Wis. Oshkosh.

BunaX

697.   

*Smith, Herbert E. ‘Smick’

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company B, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 November 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Smith earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 21 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. A dispatch from overseas by war correspondent Robert J. Doyle in the Milwaukee Journal on 23 Jan. ‘43 summarized his actions thusly: “In the attack, Sergt. Smith was covered with dirt and debris from a bomb explosion.   He dug his way out and continued to lead his squad directly into heavy machine gun fire. Three of his men fell when they were wounded. Smith himself was wounded but continued to lead his men until he was wounded several more times and finally fell dead.”

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces Pacific, General Orders No. 9 (1943)
Born: 30 October 1918 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Death: 21 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Saint Patrick’s Cemetery, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Status: KIA

 

He was a Cpl. in Co. B, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Eau Claire, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20648985; also earned Purple Heart.

BunaX

698.   

Smith, James R.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 16 (1946)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

699.   

Smith, Nate, Jr.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Nate Smith, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1945)

Born: 1920 at Oregon

Home of Record: Powers, Oregon

Death: 1993

Interred: Tenmile Cemetery, Tenmile, Oregon

 

Graduated Powers H. S. in ‘41; entered service at Portland, OR on 11 Sep. ‘42; SN 39317086; also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart w/OLC, Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, Presidential Unit Citation (Leyte), Philippine Liberation Medal, CIB; married.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

700.   

Smith, Rae M.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 8 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Rae M. Smith, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, 2d Lt. Smith earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 8 December 1942 near Mundarupi Village, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1943)
Born: 1 November 1918
Home of Record: Superior, Wisconsin

Death: 30 July 1975

Interred: Epiphany Catholic Cemetery, Coon Rapids, Minnesota

 

He was a Pvt. in Med. Det. (Rifle), 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Superior, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; also had ties to MN; said to have served 52 months overseas during WWII; he was Maj. in Army Reserve at Brainerd, MN, when he was ordered to active service ca. Sep. ‘50; also served during Korean War; attained rank of Lt. Col.

BunaX

701.   

Smith, Richard L.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 36 (1946)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

702.   

Smith, Robert L.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Tec. 5 Smith earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 November 1942 at Cape Sudest, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6 (1943)
Born:
Home of Record: Long Beach, California

 

Married, also earned Purple Heart.

BunaX

703.   

Smith, Russell W.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Service Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1945)
Born: 1914 at West Virginia
Home of Record: Clarksburg, West Virginia

 

He entered service 24 Jul. ‘42 at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN; SN 15105220; depicted in a Signal Corps photograph operating a bulldozer near Lonoy, Leyte, Philippines on 22 Dec. ‘44.

 

704.   

Smith, Wesley L.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed: The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born:
Home of Record: Los Angeles, California

 

His unit of assignment is presumed, most of the patrol members whose unit is known were assigned to the 126TH Inf.

AitapeX

705.   

Smith, Wilbert R.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company K, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 175 (1945)
Born: 1922 at Ohio
Home of Record: Norwood, Ohio

Death: 7 April 1945

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: DOW

 

He entered service 18 Jan. ‘43 at Cincinnati, OH; SN 35794189; also earned Purple Heart.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

706.   

*Soliz, Olegario C.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Tec. 5 Soliz earned the Silver Star, posthumously, possibly for his actions at Saidor, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 51 (1945)
Born: 6 March 1921 at Duval County, Texas
Home of Record: Benavides, Texas

Death: 11 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas

Status: KIA

 

Entered service at Ft. Sam Houston, TX on 9 Sep. ‘42; SN 38248602; promoted to Tec. 5, ‘technical corporal.’

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

707.   

Soll, Wade L.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: His family believes he earned the Silver Star at Luzon, Philippines, but I have not been able to confirm it.
General Orders:
Born: 11 May 1926 at Iowa
Home of Record: San Diego County, California

Death: 14 January 1976

Interred: Beth Israel Cemetery, Phoenix, Arizona

 

He entered service 7 Aug. ‘44 at Los Angeles, CA; SN 39596799; served in 32D Div.; likely a replacement who arrived in Dec. ‘44; also reportedly earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart, at Luzon; possibly WIA in Mar. or Apr. ’45.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

VVTX

708.   

Sollohub, Julian Vincent

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lieutenant Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Julian Vincent Sollohub (ASN: 0-20584), United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy as Commanding Officer, 114th Engineer Combat Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 164 (1945)
Born: 6 April 1916 at Scotia, New York
Home of Record: Springfield Center, New York

Death: 19 May 2007 at Tallahassee, Florida

Interred: Springfield Cemetery, Springfield Center, New York

 

Married, father of 4; graduated USMA at West Point in ‘37, commissioned 2d Lt., Engr.; SN O-20584; served with 14TH Engr. Regt, Philippine Scouts; 2d Lt. assigned to Pittsburgh District, Ohio River Division, Corps of Engineers, ca. ‘40; Capt. and Cdr. of Co. A, 84TH Engr. Bn. ca. ‘41; served with 603D Engr. Bn.; Deputy Cdr. of 1178TH Engr. Construction Group; Cdr. of 114TH Engr. Bn. at Luzon, Philippines; also earned Legion of Merit for his service with 32D Div.; served with Army of Occupation; assigned I Corps Engr.; retired from military in ‘67; worked as Chief of Interior Resources for Fla. Dept. of Natural Resources at Tallahassee, FL; transferred to Planning Division, Fla. Dept. of Trans. in ‘70; retired in ‘86.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

709.   

*Sommer, Jesse S.

Private, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Sommer earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 5 December 1942 near Sanananda, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 32 (1943) and Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 41 (1943)
Born: 24 March 1916 near Cannelton, Indiana
Home of Record: Bloomington, Illinois

Death: 6 December 1942

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Graduated Chenoa H. S. (Chenoa, IL); worked as a carpenter; entered service 13 Dec. ‘41 at Ft. Sheridan, IL; SN 36230417; cited in 2 General Orders, which may indicate an additional award; also earned Purple Heart.

BunaX

710.   

Spencer, Gareld E. (Gerald)

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1945)
Born: 1916 at Indiana
Home of Record: Marengo, Indiana

Death: 25 November 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He entered service 31 Dec. ‘41 at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN; SN 35251409; WIA near Buna, New Guinea; family notified ca. 27 Feb. 43; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

711.   

Spraetz, Harold A.

Captain, U.S. Army
Company G, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 October 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Spraetz earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 18 October 1942 near Pongani, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)
Born: 20 November 1903 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Madison, Wisconsin

Death: 27 September 1955 at Dane County, Wisconsin

Interred: Roselawn Memorial Park, Monona, Wisconsin

 

Father was German immigrant; married, father of 2; enlisted in Co. G, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Madison, WI; attained rank of Sgt. before being commissioned 2d Lt. in the unit ca. Jul. ‘30; ca. 23 Aug. ‘30 he was awarded the King Medal (gold) for 5 years’ perfect drill attendance; selected to be member of honor guard for Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Martha of Norway during their visit to Madison, WI ca. Jun. ‘39; 1st Lt. in HQ, 3D Bn., 128TH Inf., at Reedsburg, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN O-277877; 1st Lt. and commander of Co. G, 128TH Inf. at Camp Livingston; Capt. and Cdr. of same company at Buna, New Guinea; hospitalized ca. 27 Nov. ’42; reassigned; attained rank of Lt. Col.

BunaX

712.   

St. Onge, Laurence Vincent

Captain, U.S. Army
Company E, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 May 1945
Citation: “Captain Laurence V. St. Onge, (0427922), Infantry, United States Army. For gallantry in action near the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 May 1945. Demonstrating great tactical ability, Captain St. Onge deployed his men for an attack upon a steep Japanese held hill that caught the enemy completely by surprise. Knowing that many of his men were in battle for the first time, he exposed himself to the enemy fire on repeated occasions in order to direct and encourage his troops. As a result of Captain St. Onge’s aggressive and capable leadership important enemy positions were won with a minimum of casualties to our forces.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 275 (25 August 1945)
Born: 3 January 1920
Home of Record: Tacoma, Washington

Death: 21 February 1995

Interred: Eagle Point National Cemetery, Eagle Point, Oregon

 

Married, father of 2; 1st Lt. and XO of Co. A, 128TH Inf. until he assumed command of Co. E, 128TH Inf. ca. 1 May ‘45, he succeeded Capt. Thomas Bell, who became XO of 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf.

VVTX

713.   

Stallman, Robert J., Jr.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Lt. Stallman may have earned the Silver Star for his actions at Leyte, Philippines.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1945)
Born: 19 October 1919
Home of Record: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Death: 23 January 2005

Interred: Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota

 

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.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

714.   

Stang, Virgil M.

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company A, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (1945)
Born: 30 July 1920 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Springfield, Wisconsin

Death: 14 November 2000 at Woodville, Wisconsin

Interred: Sunset Memorial Cemetery, Woodville, Wisconsin

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. A, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Menomonie, WI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20648867; also earned Purple Heart; promoted to T. Sgt.; married, father of (at least) 2.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

715.   

Stanley, Marvin E.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (1945)
Born: 2 March 1920 at Summitville, Indiana
Home of Record: Alexandria, Indiana

Death: 19 January 1980 at Summitville, Indiana

Interred: Vinson Memorial Park, Summitville, Indiana

 

Worked at Johns-Manville; entered service at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN on 10 Jun. ‘44; SN 35842527; Leyte and Luzon, Philippines; WIA, family notified ca. 19 Jun. ‘45; also earned Purple Heart, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/2 service stars, Presidential Unit Citation, Philippine Liberation Medal, CIB; promoted to Sgt.; discharged in Nov. ‘45; brother Charles J. also served with Army during WWII; member of VFW, American Legion; twice married; father of (at least) 6.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

716.   

Steedman, Harry L.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: His family believes he served with the 32D Div. and earned the Silver Star, but I have found no further information.
General Orders:
Born: 18 April 1917 at Ohio
Home of Record: Jackson Co., Michigan

Death: 1 July 1958

Interred: Cement City Cemetery, Cement City, Michigan

 

He entered service 3 Jan. ’41 at Detroit, MI; SN 16013194; served in the Pacific ’42-‘45; reportedly also earned Bronze Star; was a special messenger who would travel behind the lines accompanied by a German Shepherd; family believes he served with 32D Div., but his memorial plaque lists unit as “Co M 158 Infantry”; step-brother or half-brother of Ronald Rowe, whom family believes also served with 32D Div. ’42-‘45 and earned Silver Star and Bronze Star.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

VVTX

717.   

Steele, Eldon John

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Eldon J. Steele, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)
Born: 1915 at Oregon
Home of Record: Diamond, Oregon

Death: 27 May 1968 at Burns, Oregon

Interred: Burns Cemetery, Burns, Oregon

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

718.   

Steele, Royale L.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
32D Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop Mechanized, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 31 December 1944, presumed
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Royale L. Steele, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” A newspaper article announcing his retirement stated Lt. Steele earned the Silver Star for his “aggressive and calm leadership, his lack of concern for personal safety, and his inspiring courage” near Baranbang, Leyte, Philippines. I believe it might be the same event as the attack on 31 Dec. ’44, briefly described below, but I am not certain.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 7 (1945)
Born: 17 February 1920
Home of Record: New York, New York

Death: 3 June 2010

Interred: Arlington National Cemetery

 

He was 2d Lt. assigned to 32D Recon. Trp., later 32D Cav. Recon. Trp. Mech., sometime prior to 8 Aug. ‘44 (1st time listed as patrol leader in documents I have); applied tourniquet after Cdr., Capt. Hermann J. F. Bottcher was severely WIA during attack on 32D Cav. Recon. Trp. CP near Mambahoa (Mambahao), Leyte, Philippines on 31 Dec. ‘44, attack started about 0245 hours, Cdr. hit by mortar at 0355 hours, conducted organized withdrawal in the pre-dawn hours, he, 8 Soldiers, 1 medic took 3 most seriously wounded to Co. C, 127TH Inf. outpost at Silad to seek medical and other assistance; assumed cmd. of the unit upon Capt. Bottcher’s death; later WIA during scuffle with 3 Japanese, his men killed 2 of them, but the 3rd shot and stabbed Steele with a bayonet (superficial according to Steele himself); “However, I was between my men and a Japanese officer who tried to decapitate me with his saber. He missed my neck but his saber struck my left shoulder.”; “I was hospitalized for a year, then recuperated for a year – then returned to my military career until retiring in 1960.”; also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart; retired as Maj. in ‘60 after 22 years of service, half Army, half Air Force; married, father of 2; resided at Garden City, Long Island after retiring and continued to work for Air Force as a civilian.

LeyteX

719.   

Stehling, Joseph Michael

Captain, U.S. Army
Company E, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Joseph M. Stehling, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Capt. Stehling earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 December 1942 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 8 March 1914 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Death: 6 September 2003 at Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Interred: Saint Peter’s Cemetery, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

 

Graduated Beaver Dam H. S. in ‘33; married at Beaver Dam on 24 Oct. ‘36, father of 10; enlisted as Pvt. in Co. E, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Beaver Dam, WI, in ‘32, while still a junior H. S.; commissioned at some point; 2d Lt. in that unit on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN O-348518; Capt. and Cdr. of Co. E, 128TH Inf. at Buna, New Guinea; earned Silver Star for his actions 16 Dec. ‘42 near Buna Mission; promoted Maj. and assigned XO of 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf. at some point; transferred to new assignment ca. 1 May ‘45, succeeded by Capt. Thomas E. Bell; also earned Purple Heart; returned to U.S. in ‘46 after 40 months overseas; served in post-war Wis. Nat. Guard; Lt. Col. and Cdr. of 2D Bn., 128TH Inf. ca. ‘47; Cdr. of 3D Bn., 128TH Inf. ca. ‘55; promoted Col. in ‘59; Cdr. of 2D Battle Gp., 128TH Inf., when mobilized 15 Oct. ‘61; deployed to Ft. Lewis, WA, with 32D Div. during Berlin Crisis; Asst. Div. Cdr. by ‘67; promoted Brig. Gen. and Cdr. of 32D Inf. Bde. in ‘67, the 1st Cdr. of the Bde. after the Div. was reorganized as a Bde.; retired ca. 7 Dec. ‘70; succeeded by Brig. Gen. Frederick J. Van Roo as Cdr. of 32D Inf. Bde.; other awards include Legion of Merit; brother Henry J. served during WWII, Korea, Vietnam, retired as Air Force Brig. Gen.; helped establish youth baseball at Beaver Dam, served as Little League president; served on Beaver Dam Board of Education; worked for Rassman Manufacturing, later known as Kirsh Foundry, for 40 years, retired as vice-president; founded Advanced Products; co-owner of LP Industries; member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Beaver Dam Eagles, John E. Miller Post No. 146 of American Legion, Clarence Keske Post No. 1163 of VFW, 40 & 8 Dodge County Voiture Locale No. 85.

BunaX

720.   

Stockmeier, Albert H.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 25 – 26 May 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Albert H. Stockmeier, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” His citation was summarized in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on 24 Nov. ‘45: “The citation accompanying the medal states that Lieut. [then 1st Sgt.] Stockmeier’s gallantry occurred on 25-26 May 1945 near Villa Verde Trail where a large group of Japs, strongly entrenched in caves, pinned down a rifle company with heavy fire causing many casualties. ““Lieut. Stockmeier volunteered to lead a small party of men around the enemy’s flank to destroy their emplacements with explosives.   When they reached a covered position, he left his men behind and with complete disregard for his own safety, advanced across open terrain exposed to withering fire of automatic weapons and small arms toward the caves. He was successful in eliminating four hostile positions and destroying a large amount of ammunition. This enabled his company to continue with its mission.””
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 322 (1945)
Born: 1 October 1918 at La Crosse, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Holgate or Van Wert, Ohio

Death: 24 November 2004 at St. Petersburg, Florida

Interred: Bay Pines National Cemetery, Bay Pines, Florida

 

Worked as asst. manager at Morris Store; married at Van Wert, OH on 25 Jul. ‘42, father of 3; entered service at Toledo, OH on 14 Nov. ‘41; SN 35040645; trained at Camp Wheeler, GA; promoted to Cpl. by Jul. ‘42; overseas 7 Nov. ‘44; served with 126TH Inf.; earned battlefield promotion from 1st Sgt. to 2d Lt. on 24 Jun. ‘45; Leyte, Luzon, Army of Occupation (stationed at Shimonoseki, Honshu, Japan); worked as radio broadcaster for WSUN and WLCY Radio, hosted the show “Open Mike”; member of Woodlawn Presbyterian Church; resided at Vero Beach, FL; moved to St. Petersburg, FL in ’60.

VVTX

721.   

Stoddard, Francis J.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Francis J. Stoddard, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 140 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

722.   

Stofft, Frederick R.

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: circa 22 December 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Lt. Col. Stofft personally directed his regiment in an attack on the last enemy strongpoint in the Ormoc Valley (near Lonoy, Leyte, Philippine Islands). He remained with the forward elements of his regiment throughout the entire attack, constantly exposing himself to enemy fire in order to direct his troops and encourage individuals. The attack was overwhelmingly successful; enemy positions were overrun, extremely high casualties were inflicted and a large quantity of material was captured. Lt. Col. Stofft’s inspiring leadership and gallant disregard for his personal safety made possible the success of the attack, which eliminated the last major enemy resistance in the Ormoc Corridor.” His proud hometown newspaper exuberantly proclaimed “Lieutenant Colonel Personally Leads Attack To End Leyte Drive.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. ? (27 December 1944)
Born: 1906 at Gainsville or Galesburg, Illinois
Home of Record: Tucson, Arizona

Death: 27 December 1996

Interred:

 

Family resided at Omaha, NE at ‘10 census; family resided at Glendale, CA at ‘20 census; attended Glendale H.S., played football, 1 teammate and childhood friend was Marion Robert ‘Duke’ Morrison, later known as John Wayne; graduated U. of Ariz. in ‘30, geology, football and track; swimming instructor at Tucson YMCA in ‘31; worked at a Tucson sporting goods co. and at Porter’s Western Store; married in ‘32, father of 2; joined PBSW Supply (Peterson, Brooke, Steiner and Wist) in ‘34, became partner in the firm’s Tucson div. in ‘35, operated as Edward & Stofft (later Howard & Stofft); enlisted as Pvt. in HQ Det., 2D Bn., 158TH Inf., Ariz. Nat. Guard, in Mar. ‘29; commissioned 2d Lt. in May ‘30 (ROTC at U. of Ariz.); mobilized as Capt. and Cdr. of HQ Co., 158TH Inf., 45TH Div., on 16 Sep. ‘40; trained at Ft. Sill, OK and Camp Barkley, TX; assigned Public Relations Off., HQ, 45TH Div. ca. Mar. ‘’41; transferred to HQ, Third Army, as aide de camp to Lt. Gen. Walter Krueger in Aug. ‘41; Maj. attending staff school at Ft. Leavenworth, KS ca. Nov. ‘42; rejoined 158TH Inf., now a separate regiment, at Panama in Dec. ‘42 (it had been conducting jungle training there since Jan. ‘42); promoted Lt. Col. on 25 Dec. ‘42; landed in Australia ca. 16 Jan. ‘43; Cdr. of 2D Bn., 158TH Inf. at Arawe, Sarmi, Noemfoor; John Wayne stopped by to visit him at Arawe while on USO tour; Cdr. of 127TH Inf. at Leyte and Luzon; earned Silver Star for his leadership at Leyte, ca. 22 Dec. ‘44 when his Regt. seized Lonoy and established contact with 7TH Cav. Regt., signifying complete U.S. control of the Ormoc Valley; Cdr. of 96TH Inf. Training Regt., Camp Hood, TX ca. Nov. ‘45; home in Tucson on terminal leave in Feb. ‘46; rejoined Ariz. Nat. Guard in ‘46, helped reorganize and reactivate the post-war force; Brig. Gen. and Cdr. of 258TH Inf. Bde. in ‘59; Maj. Gen. and Adjutant Gen., Ariz. Nat. Guard, ‘60 until he retired 31 May ‘65 after 36 years of service (some references claim he retired at Lt. Gen.); other awards include Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal w/OLC, and State of Arizona Medal of Honor (2nd recipient); “…one of fewer than 100 Pacific veterans who always was invited to MacArthur’s birthday parties in New York after the old warrior retired.”; presented Order of the Sword by the Enlisted Assn. of Ariz. Nat. Guard on 19 May ‘95; moved to Phoenix, AZ and became vice president of PBSW in Dec. ‘62, president in ‘64, retired in ‘70; cited for outstanding citizenship by Civitan Club of Tucson in ‘60; inducted into U. of Ariz. Athletic Hall of Fame in ‘72; received Distinguished Citizen Award from U. of Ariz. Alumni Assn. in ‘76; president of Tucson Chamber of Commerce, Tucson Airport Authority, Tucson Kiwanis Club; other civic activities included Phoenix Centennial, Goodwill, Red Cross and Boy Scouts; “for relaxation, there’s model train making and a regular game of handball”; re-married in ‘88; resided at Paradise Valley, AZ; inducted into Pima Co. Sports Hall of Fame in ‘01.

LeyteX

723.   

Stohler, Robert Elmer

Private, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert E. Stohler, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born: 7 August 1924 at Oregon
Home of Record: Portland, Oregon

Death: 23 January 2007 at home Terra Linda, California

Interred:

 

Attended Oregon State U.; entered service 8 Apr. ‘43 at Portland, OR; SN 39330657; unit of assignment is presumed, most of the patrol members whose unit is known were assigned to the 126TH Inf.; promoted to Sgt.; New Guinea, Leyte, Luzon, Army of Occupation; married at Santa Barbara, CA on 3 Feb. ‘51, father of 3; graduated U. of Calif. Berkeley in ‘51; resided at San Francisco, CA; moved to Sausalito, CA; moved to Tiburon, CA; moved to Terra Linda, CA; enjoyed reading, the outdoors, crossword puzzles, writing letters to friends and family, travel.

AitapeX

724.   

Stone, John H.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “John H. Stone, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 10 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

725.   

Story, Nelson, IV

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Nelson Story, IV, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 76 (1944)

Born: 1922 at Montana

Home of Record: Bozeman, Montana

Death: 6 August 1944 near Afua, New Guinea

Interred: Sunset Hill Cemetery, Bozeman, Montana, also memorialized at Soldier’s Chapel Cemetery, Big Sky Canyon Village, Montana (the Soldier’s Chapel was erected by Col. and Mrs. Story to honor the memory of the men of the 163D Inf. who were killed during WWII)

Status: KIA

 

Enlisted in Co. C, 163D Inf., 41ST Div., Montana National Guard, at Bozeman, MT; Cpl. when mobilized on 16 Sep. ‘40; SN 20929175; father, Capt. Nelson Story, III, was Adjutant, HQ, 163D Inf., when mobilized on 16 Sep. ‘40 (by the end of the war he was Col. and Cdr. of the Regt.); commissioned 2d Lt. at some point; new SN O-2035160; transferred to 32D Div., likely 127TH Inf.; many references state he was with the 163D Inf. when he was killed, but that unit did not serve at Afua, they departed the Aitape-area in early May ‘44 for the pending attack at Wakde Island, and by Aug. ‘44 they were at Biak.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

726.   

Stover, Robert Carl

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company K, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert C. Stover, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to his obituary, Sgt. Stover was “awarded the Silver Star and Combat Infantry Badge for his heroism in the battle for Villa Verde, Hill 508, and Hill 507. During the capture of Hill 507 he and his platoon leader charged and captured an enemy pillbox. He was hit by shrapnel and burned by a grenade during this action and he was severely injured the following day by a shot to his abdomen.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 120 (1945)

Born: 21 June 1911 at Manitou Springs, Colorado

Home of Record: Sacramento, California

Death: 17 September 1998 at Santa Cruz, California

Interred: San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, Santa Nella, California

 

He was born Robert Carl Richardson or Carl Robert Richardson, both parents passed away when he was quite young; his surname was changed when he was adopted in ’22; grew up in San Francisco and Oakland, CA; attended San Francisco State; entered service at San Francisco, CA on 8 Apr. ‘43; SN 39130486; also earned Purple Heart w/2 OLCs, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/2 service stars, Philippine Liberation Medal w/1 service star; discharged 1 Dec. ‘45; restored and ran the McClellan Air Force Base Civilian Club; Executive Secretary of Civilian Welfare Fund in ‘55; past cdr. of Post No. 391 of American Legion; Chairman of Blood Program for Red Cross at Sacramento; active in numerous civic and community organizations.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

VVTX

727.   

Strong, Robert F.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 30 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert F. Strong, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Strong earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 30 November 1942 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6 (1943)
Born: 13 October 1918 at Detroit, Michigan
Home of Record: Mount Clemens, Michigan

Death: 13 February 2011

Interred: Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida

 

He entered service 23 Apr. ‘41 at Detroit, MI; SN 36112355; married, father of 4; member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Bushnell; member of Red Arrow and Purple Heart Clubs.

BunaX

728.   

Strumberger, John W. (K.)

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “John K. Strumberger, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 51 (1945)
Born: 1917 at Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Kent County, Michigan

Death: 11 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Son of Hungarian immigrants; entered service 21 Apr. ‘41 at Kalamazoo, MI; SN 36155368; also earned Purple Heart.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

729.   

Sugrensky, Benjamin A.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Benjamin A. Sugrensky, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 220 (1945)
Born: 5 September 1923 at Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Frackville, Pennsylvania

Death: 24 April 2009

Interred: Saint Ambrose Cemetery, North Manheim, Pennsylvania

 

Entered service at Allentown, PA on 23 Mar. ‘43; SN 33620902; resided at Frackville, PA; member of American Legion.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

730.   

Sujkowski, Floyd A.

Private, U.S. Army

__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 20 December 1942

Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Sujkowski earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 20 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.   According to an article in the Daily Telegram on 1 Feb. ’43, he and 3 others attempted to repair a damaged bridge under heavy enemy fire (the others were T. Sgt. Wright C. Chambless, Jr., Cpl. Malcolm M. Hilliard, and Pvt. Thomas E. Doss).

General Orders:

Born: 3 July 1918

Home of Record: Saginaw, Michigan

Death: 26 April 1991

Interred:

BunaX

731.   

Sullivan, Harold Gilbert

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Harold G. Sullivan, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” S. Sgt. Sullivan may have earned the Silver Star for his actions at New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (1944)
Born: 12 March 1917 at Indiana
Home of Record: Linton, Indiana

Death: 28 July 1997

Interred: Fairview Cemetery, Linton, Indiana

 

Entered service at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN on 31 Dec. ‘41; SN 35251388; served with 32D Div., possibly 126TH Inf. (depicted in photograph with S. Sgt. Arbon C. Hale, who served with 126TH Inf.); WIA in the Philippines; also earned Purple Heart; brother Sgt. Clovis H. also served with Army during WWII; brother Cpl. John H. served with Army during Korean War.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

732.   

Sullivan, James K.

Captain, U.S. Army

__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “James K. Sullivan, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 60 (1945)

 

Rank of 1st Lt. at Leyte; wrote letter of condolence to parents of Pvt. John A. Malsom who was KIA on Leyte; Capt. at Luzon; provided witness statement in support of Pfc. Dirk J. Vlug’s Medal of Honor; likely earned his Silver Star at Leyte or Luzon.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

733.   

Sumrall, Roy O.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Roy O. Sumrall, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 78 (1945)

Born: 1920 at Mississippi

Home of Record: Leake County, Mississippi

Death: 23 December 1944

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: DOW

 

He entered service 4 Dec. ‘41 at Jackson, MS; SN 14061380; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

734.   

Suslje, Matthew (Susjle)

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company M, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 26 November 1942

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Matthew Susjle, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Susjle earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 26 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)

Born: 28 August 1912 at Croatia (Austria)

Home of Record: Coalton, Illinois

Death: February 1982 at Madison Heights, Michigan

Interred:

 

Son of Croatian (Austrian) immigrants; joined CCC from Montgomery Co., IL on 2 Jan. ‘35; entered service 7 May ‘41 at Detroit, MI; SN 36114641; received his Silver Star from Lieut. Gen. Walter Krueger during a ceremony in Australia on 29 May ‘43.

BunaX

735.   

Swofford, Millard Malee

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Millard M. Swofford, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 180 (1945)

Born: 20 December 1914 at Stroud, Oklahoma

Home of Record: Stroud, Oklahoma

Death: 25 August 1994 at Del City, Oklahoma

Interred: Stroud Cemetery, Stroud, Oklahoma

 

Entered service at Ft. Sill, OK on 2 Feb. ‘42; SN 38064804; also earned Purple Heart; married, father of (at least) 1; retired from Tinker Air Force Base.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

736.   

Szacun, Frank, Jr.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 269 (1945)

Born: 18 November 1915 at Michigan

Home of Record: Hamtramck, Michigan

Death: 26 November 2002

Interred: Parkview Memorial Cemetery, Livonia, Michigan

 

Entered service at Detroit, MI on 10 Dec. ‘41; SN 16042551; discharged 19 Oct. ’45.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

737.   

Tamboer, Neal J., Jr.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Neal J. Tamboer, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1945)

Born: 1920 at Michigan

Home of Record: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 22 November 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Fairplains Cemetery, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Likely Cornelius J., Jr., son of Cornelius and Anna Tamboer, 2022 Rome, Grand Rapids, MI; entered service at Kalamazoo, MI on 18 Jul. ‘42; SN 36186394.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

738.   

Tappen, Robert James

Corporal, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 19 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert J. Tappen, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Tappen earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 19 November 1942 in the Buna area, possibly during the attack at Cape Endaiadere, New Guinea. His citation, summarized in the Daily Telegram on 29 Mar. ‘43, stated: “Tappen was a member of a squad cut off from a platoon by enemy fire Nov. 19. He volunteered to try to get into contact with his outfit and took along a seriously wounded soldier for medical treatment. He accomplished his mission under heavy fire, then returned to the squad and directed it to safety.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 17 (1943)
Born: 15 June 1918 at Menominee, Michigan
Home of Record: Menominee, Michigan

Death: 20 June 1978 at Bradenton, Florida

Interred: LaGrange Cemetery, Mims, Florida

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. A, 107TH Engr. Regt., Michigan National Guard, at Escanaba, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20638101; promoted to T. Sgt.; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 53 (1943), which may indicate an additional award; married.

BunaX

739.   

*Tasker, Merle Graydon

Corporal, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 1 January 1943

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Merle G. Tasker, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Tasker earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 1 January 1943 at Government Gardens, near Buna, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 38 (1943)

Born: 13 June 1913 near Assyria Center, Michigan

Home of Record: Hastings, Michigan

Death: 1 January 1943 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Hastings, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Attended Bellevue H. S. before graduating Hastings H. S. in ‘33, lettered in football as junior and senior, played basketball, elected to Hi-Y, served as class secretary in senior year; married on 18 Oct. ‘41; worked for Michigan Shade Tree Co.; entered service 29 Apr. ‘41 at Kalamazoo, MI; SN 36156188; joined 32D Div. at Camp Livingston, LA; parents received telegram 16 Jan. ‘43; “the first Hastings man to be killed in the Second World War”; repatriated and re-interred at Riverside Cemetery, Hastings, MI ca. 20 Oct. ‘49; Silver Star presented to his wife during a private ceremony ca. 20 Jan. ‘46.

BunaX

740.   

Taylor, Harold E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Harold E. Taylor, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 117 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

741.   

Taylor, Lloyd W.

Captain, U.S. Army
2D Field Hospital (supporting the 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division)
Date of Action: 7 December 1942
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Medical Corps) Lloyd W. Taylor, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Officer assigned to the 2d Field Hospital at Sememi, New Guinea, on 7 December 1942. Captain Taylor cared for the sick and wounded, working courageously and fearlessly, entirely oblivious of his personal safety, while continually being bombed and strafed by enemy planes. Captain Taylor’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to his fellow man, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”
General Orders: The Military Surgeon, March 1943
Born: 9 March 1915 at Millerton, Oklahoma
Home of Record: San Francisco, California

Death: 15 August 1983 at San Francisco, California

Interred:

 

He graduated from OK U. Med. School in ‘41; at least one reference claims he was the most highly decorated combat surgeon in WWII; served for 20 years and retired Col. and head of Orthopedic Surgeon’s Dept. at Letterman Army Hospital in San Francisco in 1962; continued medical service as civilian after Army retirement.

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742.   

Taylor, Merl Beckham, Jr.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company L, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Merl Taylor, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 12 (1945)

Born: 30 December 1920 at Kentucky

Home of Record: Jefferson County, Kentucky

Death: 14 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Green River Cemetery, Ohio County, Kentucky

Status: KIA

 

Entered service at Louisville, KY on 17 Jul. ‘42; SN 35484950.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

743.   

Taylor, Royal J.

Corporal, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Royal J. Taylor, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 97 (1944)

Born: 1 April 1923 at Michigan

Home of Record: Bark River, Michigan

Death: 25 January 1976

Interred: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Schaffer, Michigan

 

Pvt. in Co. A, 107TH Engr. Regt., Mich. Nat. Guard, Escanaba, MI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20638102; arrived home from Camp Livingston, LA for 19-day furlough ca. 17 Jul. ‘41; promoted to Pfc. in Fall ‘41; arrived home from Camp Livingston, LA for 21-day furlough ca. 1 Feb. ‘42; the 107TH Engr. Bn. was shipped to Ireland while he was on furlough, so he was assigned to a different unit in the Div. when he returned; promoted to Cpl. ca. Feb. ‘43; resided at Milwaukee, WI ca. ‘50s.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

744.   

*Tellez, Canuto

Private, U.S. Army

__, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action: 30 April 1945

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Canuto Tellez, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”   His citation was briefly summarized in the Deming Headlight on 7 Dec. ‘45: “Pvt. Tellez sacrificed his life in an attempt to save the life of a wounded comrade.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 278 (1945)

Born: 13 April 1924 at Hanover, New Mexico

Home of Record: Silver City, New Mexico

Death: 30 April 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Status: KIA

 

Married, father of 2; SN 38582840; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 348 (1945), which may indicate an additional award.

VVTX

745.   

Teeples, Robert Woodrow ‘Bob’

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company L, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division, on temporary duty with Alamo Scouts
Date of Action: 3-7 March 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Pfc. Teeples earned Silver Star for gallantry in action near Kumisanger, New Guinea, March 3 to 7, 1944.”
General Orders:
Born: 14 August 1918 at Black River Falls, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Black River Falls, Wisconsin

Death: 5 August 2011

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Black River Falls, Wisconsin

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. C, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Marshfield, WI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40; SN 20649280; transferred to Co. L at some point; volunteered for temporary duty with Alamo Scouts; received battlefield commission to 2d Lt. ca. May ’45; severely injured while on a patrol and evacuated to U.S. for treatment in Aug. ’45 after 37 mos. overseas, from Buna to Luzon; also earned Bronze Star; retired as Capt. from Reserves in ’80; married, father of 5; worked for Community Telephone Co., later General Telephone Co., for 32 years, retired in ’80; member of Black River Lodge No. 74 Free and Accepted Masons and Royal Arch Masons Chapter No. 41; life member and past commander of Miles-Hagen American Legion Post No. 200; charter member and 1st commander of AMVET Post No. 5494; life member of Thompson-Red Cloud VFW Post No. 1959; past commander of VFW Post No. 388 of Wausau; life, charter and past commander of DAV Chapter No. 61; member of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Black River Falls; inducted into “Hall of Heroes” at Tomah VA Medical Center 15 Feb. ’06; wrote several books.

 

746.   

Tessier, Albert

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Albert Tessier, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 290 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

747.   

Therrien, Joseph W.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Joseph W. Therrien, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 72 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

748.   

Thomas, Robert F.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert F. Thomas, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 11 (1946)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

749.   

*Thompson, Arthur J.

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army

__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 51 (1945)

Born: 2 March 1920

Home of Record: Houston, Texas, presumed

Death: 13 December 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Fairbanks Cemetery, Houston, Texas

Status: KIA

 

Attended U. of Houston; namesake of Thompson-Patton-Zahn Post No. 8905 of VFW.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

750.   

Thompson, Michael G.

__, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Michael G. Thompson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 126 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

751.   

Tidrick, Carlton Ogdon

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army

__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Carlton O. Tidrick, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1945)

Born: 9 March 1922 at Iowa

Home of Record: Belton, Montana

Death: 7 July 2011 at Tucson, Arizona

Interred: Arlington National Cemetery

 

Father was Sgt. with Co. H, 163D Inf. during WWI; family resided at Los Angeles, CA before moving to Belton, MT; graduated from Flathead H. S., Kalispell, MT, in ‘40; enlisted in Co. F, 163D Inf., 41ST Div., Mont. Nat. Guard, Kalispell, MT; SN 20929835; mobilized on 16 Sep. ‘40; promoted to Cpl.; earned DSC for his actions 16 Jan. ‘43 near Sanananda, New Guinea, led his squad in attack against enemy machinegun, seriously WIA during the event; promoted to Sgt.; commissioned 2d Lt. at some point; assigned, or at least attached, to 32D Div. when he earned Silver Star; discharged in ‘45; also earned Bronze Star, Purple Heart w/OLC; served in post-war Army Reserve; married Betty M., father of Patrick, James, Rebecca; worked for Seattle First National Bank for 39 years; retired as Vice President and Bank Manager of the Colville branch in ‘84; enjoyed golf, bowling; moved to Tucson in ’02.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

752.   

Tirrell, Wilbur Greene

Corporal, U.S. Army
__, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 8 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Wilbur G. Tirrell, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Cpl. Tirrell earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 8 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. He earned the Silver Star for his efforts to attack a Japanese bunker with a flame thrower on 8 Dec. ’42 near Buna, New Guinea; he was WIA during the event.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4 (1943)
Born: 29 September 1913 at Massachusetts
Home of Record: Weymouth, Massachusetts

Death: 20 January 1996

Interred:

 

Graduated Weymouth H. S. in ‘31, Mass. State College in ‘35, and Northeastern U. Law School in ‘40; entered service 13 Mar. ‘41 at Boston, MA; SN 31029722; served with 114TH Engr. Bn. for 4 years; also earned Bronze Star and Purple Heart; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 54 (1943), which may indicate an additional award; married in ‘47, father of 5; lifelong resident of Weymouth; lawyer and Weymouth town official.

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753.   

*Tolleson, Claude Anthony (presumed posthumous)

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army

__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 260 (1945)

Born: 9 December 1918 at Arkansas

Home of Record: Hempstead County, Arkansas

Death: 12 May 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Saratoga Cemetery, De Ann, Arkansas

Status: KIA

 

Married, father of (at least) 1; entered service at Little Rock, AR on 17 Jul. ‘42; SN 38209067; commissioned 2d Lt. at some point; new SN O-2027061.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

754.   

*Tollett, Orville M. (presumed posthumous)

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division

Date of Action:

Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 166 (1945)

Born: 29 July 1924 at Arkansas

Home of Record: Hamilton County, Tennessee

Death: 11 April 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Lockesburg Cemetery, Lockesburg, Arkansas

Status: KIA

 

Also had ties to Houston, TX; married; entered service at Houston, TX on 22 Jun. ‘43; SN 38540079.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

755.   

Tomlinson, Clarence M.

Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Col. Tomlinson earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action 6 December 1942 near Buna and Giruwa, New Guinea.

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 3 (1943)
Born: 16 October 1895 at Duluth, Minnesota
Home of Record: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Death: 18 July 1974

Interred: Arlington National Cemetery

 

Tomlinson, Clarence M.

Colonel, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Col. Tomlinson earned the Oak Leaf Cluster to the Silver Star for gallantry in action 26 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.

General Orders:
Born: 16 October 1895 at Duluth, Minnesota
Home of Record: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Death: 18 July 1974

Interred: Arlington National Cemetery

 

He attended Superior Teacher’s College, Superior, WI; married, father of 1; he was Mess Sgt. in Sup. Co., 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, from Superior, WI, during Mexican Border Crisis; commissioned 2d Lt., inf., in ORC 15 Aug. ‘17; may have been assigned to 37TH Inf. in ‘17; 2d Lt. assigned to 19TH Inf. 1 May ‘18; served during WWI; resigned commission 23 Sep. ‘19 to work as a journalist; reappointed 1st Lt. in 11TH Inf. 22 Sep. ‘21, stationed at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN; commander of 3D Bn., 126TH Inf. at start of Papuan Campaign; assumed cmd. of 126TH Inf. after Col. Lawrence A. Quinn was KIA 5 Nov. ‘42; promoted to Col.; contracted malaria; returned to U.S. in ‘43; succeeded by Col. Joseph S. Bradley as Cdr. of 126TH Inf.; Cdr. of 86TH Inf., 10TH Mountain Div., in ETO; earned 3rd Silver Star in ‘45; assistant to Brig. Gen. Telford Taylor during Nuremburg war crime trials.

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756.   

*Tomlinson, Ritner Pierson ‘Buddy’

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed:
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 81 (1945)
Born: 13 July 1922 at Pennsylvania
Home of Record: Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania

Death: 28 November 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Entered service 7 Jan. ‘43 at Philadelphia, PA; SN 33480244; also earned Purple Heart.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

757.   

Traub, Carl R.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 January 1943
Citation Needed: The Menasha Record summarized his citation on 27 Apr. ’43, “Sergt. Carl Traub… Neenah, has received a silver star for gallantry in action near Buna Mission, Jan. 1, according to notice issued by the war department. The Neenah man led 10 men 200 yards ahead of the American front line under sniper fire from front and rear, and captured three enemy pillboxes and two buildings. Their action beyond the call of duty enabled the Americans to consolidate and prepare for the successful attack on Buna Mission next day.”
General Orders:
Born: 1920 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Neenah, Wisconsin

 

Pvt. in Co. I, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Neenah, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40.

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758.   

Uliasz, John Thomas

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23 April 1945
Citation: “First Lieutenant (then Second Lieutenant) John T. Uliasz, (01690721), Infantry, United States Army.   For gallantry in action near the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 23 April 1945. Lieutenant Uliasz spearheaded the attack of his company against a number of enemy held ridges. With the assistance of two enlisted men he eliminated a machine gun nest whose fire was hampering the company’s progress, and then, exposing himself fearlessly, led a charge that gained the top of a commanding height.   He promptly organized defensive measures against an anticipated counter-attack, and directed mortar and artillery fire that broke up the Japanese assault when it developed. The heroic accomplishments of Lieutenant Uliasz made it possible for the company to consummate its mission. Home address: Mrs. Mary Uliasz, (mother), 134 Atlantic Street, Bridgeport, Connecticut.” Given the date and location, it is likely he served with the 127TH Inf. (or maybe the 126TH Inf.).
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 275 (25 August 1945)
Born: 1920 at Connecticut
Home of Record: Bridgeport, Connecticut

 

Father was Polish immigrant; entered service 5 May ‘42 at Hartford, CT; SN 31121255; earned battlefield commission to 2d Lt.; new SN O-1690721; Capt. stationed in GA ca. 16 Mar. ‘52 when his son was born; retired as a Maj. on 29 Feb. ‘60 (some of his service may have been in Reserve).

VVTX

759.   

Vainreb, Joseph Henry

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Joseph H. Vainreb, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 274 (1945)
Born: 7 June 1915 at Pocahontas, Iowa
Home of Record: Pocahontas, Iowa

Death: 19 November 1994 at Pocahontas, Iowa

Interred: Calvary Cemetery, Pocahontas, Iowa

 

Father was a Slovakian (Hungarian) immigrant; worked as a farmhand for John L. Pascal; entered service in ‘42; discharged in ‘45; sister Pfc. Anne served with WAC; brother Pfc. Clarence J. served with 424TH Inf., 106TH Div., FOD 16 Dec. ‘44; married, father of 8; farmed near Rolfe, IA; member of American Legion, Pocahontas Co. Cattlemen’s Assn., and Pocahontas Pork Producers.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

760.   

Valentine, Jacob Martinus, Jr. ‘Jake’

Sergeant, U.S. Army
129TH Field Artillery Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Jacob M. Valentine, Jr., United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” Sgt. Valentine earned the Silver Star for his actions at Saidor; he and a comrade swam a river, under fire, to carry wounded Soldiers to safety.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1944)
Born: 18 May 1917 at Racine, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Racine, Wisconsin

Death: 4 February 2000

Interred: Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Union Grove, Wisconsin

 

Son of Danish immigrants; joined CCC ca. ’35; amateur heavyweight boxer in Golden Gloves ca. ‘41; entered service at Milwaukee, WI on 23 Apr. ‘41; SN 36208760; attended U. of Wis., graduated in ‘50 with master’s in zoology, studied with Aldo Leopold; married Orpha Lea Owen; manager of Slade National Wildlife Refuge, Dawson, ND, ca. ‘52; biologist for Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast ca. ‘63; lauded for saving Mississippi sandhill cranes in the ‘70s; resided at Lafayette, LA for nearly 40 years.

SaidorX

761.   

Van Cor, Wallace Irving

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Company C, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23 December 1942
Citation Needed: “Wallace I. Van Cor, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Tec. 5 Van Cor earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 23 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. A couple of brief newspaper articles imply that he earned the Silver Star for carrying an Australian casualty to safety and assisting in the repair of a bridge over Simemi Creek under heavy enemy fire.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 5 (1943)
Born: 30 August 1910 at Melrose, Massachusetts
Home of Record: Cambridge or Melrose Heights, Massachusetts

Death: 7 March 2006 at Wakefield, Massachusetts

Interred: Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield, Massachusetts

 

He entered service 27 Feb. ‘41 at Boston, MA; SN 31018229; “called the “hardest working” among this gang of ceaseless laborers”; his company of assignment is presumed based on possible relationship to 2d Lt. James D. Doughtie and the bridge over Simemi Creek.

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762.   

Van Wilgen, John

Private, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “John Van Wilgen, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 19 (1944)
Born: 1910 at the Netherlands
Home of Record: New Haven County, Connecticut

Death: 1979

Interred: Branford Center Cemetery, Branford, Connecticut

 

Married; entered service at Hartford, CT on 16 Jan. ‘42 (may have previously served in Regular Army); SN 06128166.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

763.   

Vance, Robert B.

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army
1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert B. Vance, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 237 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

764.   

Vandal, Henry J.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Henry J. Vandal, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 132 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

765.   

Vanek, Clarence T.

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Clarence T. Vanek, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 295 (1945)

Born: 25 November 1917

Home of Record: Dorchester, Nebraska

Death: 24 June 2006

Interred: Bohemian National Cemetery, Milligan, Nebraska

 

Also earned Bronze Star; brother S. Sgt. Emil F. served with 531ST Bomb Sqdn., 380TH Bomb Grp., crewmember of B-24D, SN 42-40500, Care Less, MIA 11 Jun. ‘43, aircraft was damaged by flak during bombing run at Koepang, Timor, attacked by Japanese fighters while limping back to base, forced to ditch in the ocean, earned Silver Star, Purple Heart; married, father of 2.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

766.   

Vannetten, Earl H. (Van Netten)

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Earl H. Vannetten, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born: 1921 at Michigan
Home of Record: Muskegon Heights, Michigan

Death: 15 February 1947

Interred: Mona View Cemetery, Muskegon Heights, Michigan

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. G, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Muskegon, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40.

AitapeX

767.   

Ver Hey, William J.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company D, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “William J. Ver Hey, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 160 (1945)

Born: 1919 at Grand Haven, Michigan

Home of Record: Holland, Michigan

Death: 4 December 1998

Interred:

 

Graduated Holland H. S.; enlisted in Co. D, 126TH Inf., Mich. Nat. Guard, at Holland, MI in ‘38; Cpl. when mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634584; Sgt. by Apr. ‘41 when he re-enlisted; earned battlefield commission; discharged as 1st Lt. in ‘46; served from mobilization to Army of Occupation; sister Hazel served with WAC during WWII and Korea, career off., attained rank of Maj.; brothers Harold and Donald served with Navy during WWII; brother Robert served in Army during WWII; brother Sfc. Kenneth was career soldier, served in Korea and Vietnam; married, father of (at least) 1; graduated Hope College in ‘50; teacher at Shingleton, MI for 7 mos., until he was recalled to active service in ‘51; 1st Lt. and XO, Co. C, 503D Airborne Inf. Regt., 11TH Airborne Div., Ft. Campbell, KY, in ‘51; promoted to Capt. summer of ‘53; Cdr. of Co. G, 172D Inf. , 43D Div., Munich, W. Germany ca. Sep. ‘53; Maj. assigned to 503D Inf. at Okinawa ca. Dec. ‘62; XO of 173D Airborne Bde. at Bien Hoa, Vietnam in ‘65; assigned to Combat Development Command Center, Ft. Belvoir, VA ca. Jul. ‘65; may have served in Vietnam again, “officer of the Green Berets in Vietnam before his assignment in Korea”; promoted to Col. on 25 Oct. ‘69, IG, HQ, I Corps, Korea, at the time; stationed at Ft. Sheridan, IL ca. Jan. ‘73; past cdr. of VFW, Holland, MI.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

768.   

Vick, Robert E.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert E. Vick, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32D Infantry Division, General Orders No. 97 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

769.   

*Vidor, William E. (Vider)

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed: “William E. Vider, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Vider earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action as a medic on 5 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1943)
Born: 18 September 1915 at Minnesota
Home of Record: Pontiac, Michigan

Death: 5 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Saint Bridget’s Cemetery, Greaney, Minnesota

Status: KIA

 

Son of Peter and Mary C. Vider, Rauch, MN, both Austrian immigrants (Yugoslavian immigrants); entered service at Detroit, MI on 16 Apr. ‘41; SN 36110949; listed on 27 Feb. ‘43 casualty list; 1 of 4,459 Americans repatriated to San Francisco aboard U.S. Army Transport Lt. George W. G. Boyce ca. 1 Jun. ‘48; brother served during WWII, 2d Lt. Charles H., ETO, Purple Heart.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

770.   

*Villegas, Ysmael R. ‘Smiley’

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 March 1945
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Staff Sergeant Ysmael R. Villegas (ASN: 39593115), United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”     Division history affirms that S. Sgt. Villegas earned the Silver Star for his fearlessness in eliminating a Japanese machine gun nest along the Villa Verde Trail on 1 March 1945.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 81 (1945)
Born: 21 March 1924 at Casa Blanca, California
Home of Record: Casa Blanca, California

Death: 20 March 1945 along the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, California

Status: KIA

 

Hispanic American, son of Mexican immigrants; married, father of 1; entered service 11 Jul. ‘44 at Casa Blanca, CA; SN 39593115; earned Medal of Honor, posthumously, for his actions 20 Mar. ‘45 along the Villa Verde Trail; repatriated and re-interred at Olivewood Cemetery, Riverside, CA in Jul. ‘49; later dis-interred and re-interred (the 1st burial) at Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA, when the new cemetery was dedicated on 11 Nov. ‘78; brother Pfc. Dario. R. served with 503D Para. Inf. Regt., 11TH Abn. Div. in Philippines during WWII; younger brothers served in Korea; Post No. 184 of VFW at Riverside, CA, is named the “Ysmael R. Villegas Memorial Casa Blanca Post” in his honor; the Ysmael R. Villegas Middle School in Riverside is named for him; a statue of him was dedicated in the Main Street Civic Center Courtyard in Riverside on 27 May ‘95; a portion of Calif. Rt. 91 was named “S. Sgt. Salvador J. Lara, S. Sgt. Ysmael R. Villegas, and Sgt. Jesus S. Duran Memorial Highway” in ’15.

VVTX

771.   

Voelkli, Hugo H.

Chief Warrant Officer, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Hugo H. Voelkli, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, CWO Voelkli earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 November 1942 at Cape Sudest, New Guinea. The citation was summarized by Robert J. Doyle, of the Milwaukee Journal, in a war-time dispatch from overseas on 23 April 1943, “Voelkli was aboard one of the vessels when the planes swooped down to attack. He boarded a barge in tow loaded with ammunition urgently needed by the soldiers at the front. Though the barge was being strafed and fragments from a burning vessel were falling in it, he ordered others in the barge to use stretchers as oars to move the barge toward shore, pausing several times to help wounded men in the water to climb aboard. Largely through his effort the load of ammunition was saved.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 11 November 1907 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Monroe, Wisconsin

Death: 11 December 1974 at Monroe, Wisconsin

Interred: Resurrection Cemetery, Madison, Wisconsin

 

Son of Swiss immigrants; enlisted in Co. K, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Monroe, WI ca. ‘25; Cpl. in the unit when he was awarded Wis. Nat. Guard Recruiting Ribbon ca. Jul. ‘26; 1st Sgt. of the unit when mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20650616; promoted to CWO at some point; home on furlough ca. 31 Jul. ‘45, spoke of his experiences to several civic groups while home, stated he knew Maj. Richard I. Bong and witnessed the “ace make his first Zero kill”; served in post-war Wis. Nat. Guard; appointed Chief Clerk, JAG Section, HQ, 32D Div. in Feb. ‘59; assigned Admin. Asst., 32D Admin. Co., Milwaukee, WI, ca. ‘61; mobilized with 32D Div. to Ft. Lewis, WA during Berlin Crisis; retired ca. 10 May ‘65 after 40 years of service; married at Reedsburg, WI on 11 Aug. ‘56; member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, American Legion, South Wisconsin, Detroit, Chicago, and Milwaukee Red Arrow Clubs; past president of 32D Div. Vet. Assn.; past cdr. of Cecil Jones Post No. 2312 of VFW.

BunaX

772.   

Vujovich, Samuel O.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Samuel O. Vujovich, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 8 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

773.   

Wade, Joe A.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Joe A. Wade, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 320 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

774.   

Wagner, Charles E.

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 28 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Wagner earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 28 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. According to a news release about Pfc. James J. Greene, summarized in the Manitowoc Herald Times on 31 Oct. ’44: “Pvt. Green and another Red Arrow infantryman from Manitowoc, Sgt. Charles Wagner, were decorated with silver stars for their part in overcoming a Japanese fortified position in the Nips formidable “defense triangle’’ at Buna. Modestly discussing the action, he [Greene] said: “One pillbox blocked my outfit out of the triangle. Machineguns stuck out of it like quills on a porcupine.   It had to be knocked out. The sarge [Wagner] and I crawled out through the Kunai grass and figured a way we could sneak up on the pillbox without being seen.”
General Orders:
Born: 27 June 1914 at Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Death: 10 January 1980 Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Interred: Knollwood Memorial Gardens, Manitowoc, Wisconsin

 

Graduated Lincoln H. S.; Sgt. in Co. E, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Manitowoc, WI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20646659; promoted to 1st Sgt. and assigned to Co. K, 127TH Inf.; 1 of 4 original members of Co. E who served all the way from mobilization to Luzon and were the last Manitowoc-area Soldiers to get home (Roger G. Gauthier, Norman A. Luebke, and Russell R. Hrabik were still with Co. E through Luzon); married at Manitowoc, WI on 7 Dec. ’46, father of 2; worked as carpenter for Burger Boat Co., retired in ‘76; member of Carpenters Union, First Reformed United Church of Christ, Masonic Lodge No. 65 F and AM, past patron of Order of Eastern Star No. 196.

BunaX

775.   

Walraven, Robert M.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Robert M. Walraven, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 164 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

776.   

Walters, Earl M.

Captain, U.S. Army
Company K, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Earl M. Walters, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 81 (1945)

Succeeded Capt. Frank Williams as Cdr. of Co. K, 128TH Inf. in Jun. ‘44; succeeded by 1st Lt. William H. Thackston as Cdr. of Co. K in Nov. ‘44; resumed cmd. of Co. K in Jan. ‘45; again succeeded by 1st Lt. or Capt. Thackston in Mar. ‘45; resumed cmd. of Co. K in Jun. ‘45 until Oct. ‘45 or possibly deactivation; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 114 (1945), which may indicate an additional award.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

777.   

*Walters, Edward W.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 January 1943
Citation Needed: “Edward W. Walters, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Walters earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 1 January 1943 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 16 (1943)
Born: 12 September 1917
Home of Record: Denver, Colorado

Death: 1 January 1943

Interred: Fairmount Cemetery, Denver, Colorado

Status: KIA

 

Entered service 9 Jan. ‘42; SN 38083232.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

BunaX

778.   

Warden, William H.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “William H. Warden, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 114 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

779.   

Warrington, William R.

Captain, U.S. Army
14TH Portable Hospital, attached to 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 & 17 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain William R. Warrington (ASN: 0-350352 [O-380382]), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action at Embogo (Emboga), New Guinea, 16 and 17 November 1942.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 3 September 1914
Home of Record: Corvallis, Oregon

Death: 15 November 1989

Interred: Oak Lawn Memorial Park, Corvallis, Oregon

 

He graduated Oreg. State College in ’35; U. of Oreg. Med. School, Class of ’39; SN O-0380382; Capt. and Dr. assigned to 14TH Portable Hosp., attached to 128TH Inf.

BunaX

780.   

Waters, Donald N.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Donald N. Waters, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (1946)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

781.   

Wax, Johney B.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23 November 1942
Citation Needed: “Johney B. Wax, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Lt. Wax earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 23 November 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 18 February 1918
Home of Record: Denham Springs, Louisiana

Death: 2 January 1991

Interred: Denham Springs Memorial Cemetery, Denham Springs, Louisiana

 

Capt. and Cdr. of Co. K, 126TH Inf. at Leyte when S. Sgt. Leroy Johnson earned his Medal of Honor, wrote letter of condolence to mother; graduated La. State U.; married, father of 2; principal at Live Oak H.S.; he was present at the dedication of plaque for S. Sgt. Leroy Johnson in Oakdale, LA, on 13 Feb. ‘65.

BunaX

782.   

Weber, Ernest Joseph

Private, U.S. Army
Company D, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 5 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Ernest J. Weber, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Weber earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 5 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 18 December 1921 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Rice Lake, Wisconsin

Death: 24 November 1944

Interred: Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Status: DOW

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. D, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Rice Lake, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; promoted to Sgt.; may have been WIA at Leyte.

BunaX

783.   

Webster, Harold R.

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 1ST Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “Harold R. Webster, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 67 (1944)

 

born 15 Nov. ‘20 at MI; son of Wilbert T. and Olive Webster, 335 Mulzer Ave., Adrian, MI (hometown); graduated Adrian H. S. in ‘39; worked for Gerity-Adrian Corp.; Cpl. in HQ Det., 1ST Bn., 126TH Inf., Mich. Nat. Guard, Adrian, MI on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20633995; earned Silver Star; KIA 5 Jun. ‘44 near Yakamul, New Guinea at age 23; interred at Palmyra Village Cemetery, Palmyra, MI; brothers 2d Lt. Homer L. and Pfc. Calvin L. also served in Army during WWII.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying his unit of assignment, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

784.   

Wehring, Edwin C.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edwin C. Wehring, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 114 (1945)
Born: 1923 at Missouri
Home of Record: St. Louis, Missouri

Death: 26 September 1944 on Morotai

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Father was German immigrant; entered service 29 Jan. ‘43 at Jefferson Barracks, MO; SN 37414752; also earned Purple Heart.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

785.   

Weisskopf, Albert I.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Albert I. Weisskopf, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 50 (1945)

 

Also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 216 (1945), which may indicate an additional award.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

786.   

Wells, Harold J.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed: “Harold J. Wells, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Wells earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action as a medic on 16 November 1942 at Cape Sudest, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 15 (1943)
Born:
Home of Record: Saskatchewan, Canada

BunaX

787.   

Wells, James T.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: “James T. Wells, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 132 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

788.   

*Welsh, James Patrick ‘Pat’

Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company B, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 November 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, Sgt. Welsh earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 21 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. A dispatch from overseas by war correspondent Robert J. Doyle in the Milwaukee Journal on 23 Jan. ‘43 summarized his actions thusly: “Sergt. Welsh also was wounded while leading a squad in the same attack [as Sgt. Herbert E. Smith].   He continued to push ahead, firing at the enemy and shouting encouragement and advice to his men.   Welsh went into enemy fire until he was wounded so many times that he collapsed. Later he died of his wounds.”
General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Forces Pacific, General Orders No. 9 (1943)
Born: 1920 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Death: 21 November 1942

Interred: Manila American Cemetery; also memorialized at Forest Hill Cemetery, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Status: KIA

 

His father enlisted in Co. E, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, and served as Sgt. with Co. E, 127TH Inf. during WWI; James was a Pfc. in Co. B, 128TH Inf., Wis. Nat. Guard, at Eau Claire, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20649070; also earned Purple Heart; brother Thomas L. survived sinking of Hornet; brother William E. also served in Navy.

BunaX

789.   

Wentzloff, Alfred Raymond

First Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Sgt. Wentzloff earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 1 December 1942 near Sanananda, New Guinea.

     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?” Capt. Meredith M. Huggins referred to 1st Sgt. Wentzloff and said of him:

     “We had established the road block along the track behind a large Japanese force. We stood between them and their supplies at Sanananda and it was touch and go whether we could hold it.

     “One morning about 10 o’clock, the Nips threw a counterattack that was a vicious thing and it appeared for a time it might be successful. We had suffered some losses previously.

     “Wentzloff grabbed an automatic rifle, recruited five messengers on the spot, and peppered the Japanese with a heavy, sustained fire. It threw them back and they retired. I believe their attack would have been successful otherwise.”

General Orders: Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 15 September 1918 at Michigan
Home of Record: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 10 November 1988

Interred: Ada Cemetery, Ada, Michigan

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. I, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; he was praised by Capt. Meredith Huggins in newspaper article because he “repeatedly exposed himself to fire as well as ordering those who waivered under continuous 48 hours of surrounding fire to “get back in there”” while he was at “Huggins’ Roadblock”; his actions were mentioned in Victory in Papua for providing effective fire to cover the withdrawal of Capt. Roger Keast’s patrol after the Capt. was KIA on 1 Dec. ‘42.

BunaX

790.   

Wernholm, Edward L. ‘Tux’

Corporal, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Edward L. Wernholm (ASN: 20638414), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 114th Engineer Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action near Sanananda, New Guinea, on 6 December 1942.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 14 May 1914 at Gwinn, Michigan
Home of Record: Negaunee, Michigan

Death: 12 April 1994 at Negaunee, Michigan

Interred: Negaunee Cemetery, Negaunee, Michigan

 

Married; was Pvt. in Co. D, 107TH Engr. Regt., Michigan National Guard, at Marquette, MI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20638414; he was home on leave when the 107TH Engr. was hastily shipped by rail to Ft. Dix, NJ in preparation for transport to Ireland as the advance party of the Div., he was assigned to Co. C, 127TH Inf. when he returned; transferred to Co. A, 114TH Engr. Bn. and was demo. sgt.; he and 14 other engrs. from Co. A marched over Owen Stanleys with 2D Bn., 126TH Inf.; assigned to Det. of Patients, 105TH Gen. Hosp. when he received his decoration (suggests he was WIA, injured in some other way, or succumbed to some tropical disease); discharged in ‘44 for malaria and asthma.

BunaX

791.   

*Wexler, Philip J.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company M, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Family believes S. Sgt. Wexler earned the Silver Star, posthumously.
General Orders:
Born: 25 July 1919 or 1920 at Brooklyn, New York
Home of Record: Brooklyn, New York

Death: 25 July 1945 at Senipsip, Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Montefiore Cemetery, Springfield Gardens, New York

Status: KIA

 

Married, father of 1; entered service 25 Nov. ‘42 at New York, NY; SN 32644039; originally assigned to 100TH Inf. Div.; forward observer with heavy weapons company.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

792.   

Whelan, William F.

Private, U.S. Army
Company G, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “William F. Whelan, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 91 (1944)
Born: 1920 at New Jersey
Home of Record: Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Death: 14 May 2004

Interred: Saint Jerome Cemetery, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

 

He was Pvt. in Co. G, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Oconomowoc, WI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20647174; brother Philip J. served in same unit, brother Robert J. also served; WIA at Buna and Aitape on New Guinea; also earned Bronze Star and Purple Heart w/OLC.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

793.   

*Whitaker, Paul

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 December 1942
Citation Needed: According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Lt. Whitaker earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action, posthumously, on 20 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. According to an article in the Yazoo Herald on 24 May ‘89, 1st Lt. Whitaker earned the Silver Star when, after his unit encountered “heavy machine gun and sniper fire.   He singlehandedly tried to destroy the Japanese position.”
General Orders: HQ, U.S. Forces, Pacific, General Order No. 14 (1943)
Born: 5 January 1914
Home of Record: Phoenix, Mississippi

Death: 20 December 1942 near Buna, New Guinea

Interred: Manila American Cemetery, also memorialized at Wesley Chapel Cemetery, Phoenix, Mississippi

Status: KIA

 

Older brother, Forrest, was pilot during WWI, WIA; graduated Sartaria H. S.; graduated Miss. State College, completed ROTC, commissioned 2d Lt.; entered service in Jun. ‘40; SN O-390728; also earned Purple Heart.

BunaX

794.   

Whitmore, Max L.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Max L. Whitmore, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 186 (1945)
Born: 1925 at Iowa
Home of Record: Albion, Iowa

Death: 23 May 1945

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: DOW

 

He entered service 30 Oct. ’43 at Camp Dodge, IA; SN 37681110; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 8 (1945), which may indicate an additional award.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

795.   

Wiercinski, Theodore I.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 18 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Theodore I. Wiercinski, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pfc. Wiercinski earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 18 November 1942 near Hariko, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 50 (1942)
Born: 1915 at British North America or Canada or Labrador or Newfoundland
Home of Record: Michigan

 

He entered service 18 Apr. ‘41 at Detroit, MI; SN 36111482.

BunaX

796.   

Wilcox, Robert L.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert L. Wilcox, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 60 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

797.   

Wiley, Cornelius

Captain, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 3D Battalion, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed:
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 75 (1944)

Assigned temp. Cdr. of 3D Bn., 127TH Inf. on 22 Mar. ‘45 at Luzon, Philippines, succeeded Maj. Timothy C. Doherty; succeeded by Lt. Col. Evan M. Houseman on 23 Mar. ’45.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

798.   

*Williams, Jack M.

Private, U.S. Army
Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 1 January 1943
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Jack M. Williams, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Williams earned the Silver Star, posthumously, for gallantry in action on 1 January 1943 near Buna Mission, New Guinea.   According to an article in The Anniston Star on 5 Aug. ’43, his mother had been told that Pvt. Williams “was one of five Infantrymen who volunteered to storm a Japanese pillbox.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (6 April 1943)
Born: 1921 at Alabama
Home of Record: Montgomery, Alabama

Death: 1 January 1943

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He entered service 10 Dec. ‘41 at Montgomery, AL; SN 14055919 mother received his Silver Star during a simple ceremony at her home (at her request) ca. 5 Aug. ‘43.

BunaX

799.   

Williams, James E.

Captain, U.S. Army
Company C, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation: “Captain (then First Lieutenant) James E. Williams, (01301575), Infantry, United States Army. For gallantry in action near the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 19 April to 21 April 1945. Captain Williams led his men in a series of fast moving, brilliantly executed attacks against a complex, connected system of enemy caves and strongpoints. Although subjected throughout the period to intense mortar, automatic weapons, and small arms fire, Captain Williams moved among his men, directing all phases of the action and encouraging them by his calmness and determination. Captain William’s achievements were largely responsible for the successful completion of the mission.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 275 (25 August 1945)
Born:
Home of Record:

 

Unit of assignment is presumed, based on a brief memoir of Pfc. A. M. Israelson, who wrote of his commander, Capt. James E. Williams, personally assisting in the elimination of enemy bunkers.

VVTX

800.   

*Williams, William Perry ‘Perry’

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “William P. Williams, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 69 (1944)
Born: 22 February 1921 at Watervliet, New York
Home of Record: Rensselaer County, New York

Death: 6 August 1944

Interred: St. Mary’s Cemetery, Troy, New York

Status: DOW

 

Father served with Co. D and Sup. Co., 105TH Inf. during WWI; attended Averill Park H. S. in ’40; enlisted in Co. A, 105TH Inf., 27TH Div., NY Nat. Guard on 26 Sep. ‘39, high school senior; SN 20201159; mobilized 15 Oct. ‘40; trained at Ft. McClellan, AL; promoted to Sgt.; completed OCS, Ft. Benning, GA on 25 Nov. ‘42 and commissioned as 2d Lt.; SN O-1301576; assigned to 128TH Inf.; promoted to 1st Lt.; WIA May ‘44 near Aitape, mortar shell; evacuated to hosp. in Australia; also earned Purple Heart, posthumously; namesake of Lt. Perry Williams Post No. 3025 of VFW, Averill Park/West Sand Lake, NY.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying the date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

801.   

Wimer, Dale F.

Private, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 20 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Dale F. Wimer, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, Pvt. Wimer earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 20 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea. An unaccredited dispatch in the Telegraph-Herald on 2 Feb. ’43 summarized his actions thusly: “The citation was “for going far beyond his normal duty as platoon first aid man and braving heavy fire on many occasions to give first aid to the 32d Division Jungle Fighters in his own and other platoons.””
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 3 (1943)
Born: 22 March 1918 at Beetown, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Cassville and/or Beetown, Wisconsin

Death: 8 November 2006 at Dubuque, Iowa

Interred: Hillside Cemetery, Lancaster, Wisconsin

 

He graduated from Cassville H. S.; married, father of 4; entered service 16 Apr. ‘41 at Milwaukee, WI; SN 36207611; Papuan Campaign lists him as infantryman, newspaper article implies he was a combat medic; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 53 (1943), which may indicate an additional award.

BunaX

802.   

Winkler, Robert B.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Robert B. Winkler, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Lt. Winkler earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 November 1942 near Cape Sudest, New Guinea. An unaccredited dispatch in the Milwaukee Journal on 3 Mar. ’43 stated 1st Lt. Winkler “swam through a hail of bullets with a life preserver to rescue a drowning soldier.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 49 (1942)
Born: 19 February 1917 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 1987

Interred: Forest Home Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

 

He was a Pvt. in Btry. A, 126TH FA Regt., Wisconsin National Guard, at Milwaukee, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; he was an aide to Maj. Gen. Harding, the Div. Commander.

BunaX

803.   

Winson, Philip (Phillip) S.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
32D Signal Company, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 23 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Phillip S. Winson, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, 1st Lt. Winson earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action near Buna, New Guinea, when “On 23 December, 1st Lt. Philip S. Winson of the 32d Signal Company, while laying a battalion observation post telephone line, was with a platoon of the 126th Infantry which was isolated by enemy counterattack. For organizing the defense of several captured enemy bunkers, he received a citation.” According to a brief account in the Miami News on 6 December 1944, the group originally number 20 Soldiers, by the time re-enforcements arrived 40 minutes later only 5 remained.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (1943)
Born: 1909 at Poland
Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

Death:

Interred:

 

He was a M. Sgt. in HQ Co., 125TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Detroit, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ’40.

BunaX

804.   

Wise, Guy E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Guy E. Wise, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 200 (1945)
Born: 1923 at Ohio
Home of Record: Ashland, Ohio

Death: 4 May 1945 at Luzon, Philippines

Interred: Manila American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He graduated Ashland H. S. in ‘41; married, father of 1; farmer at Sullivan; entered service 1 Jul. ‘44 at Cleveland, OH; SN 35929188; trained at Camp Fannin, TX and Ft. Ord, CA; also earned Purple Heart.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

805.   

Wojculowicz, Edward J.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edward J. Wojculowicz, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 274 (1945)

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

806.   

Wolff, Walter A. (Wolfe)

Private, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Walter A. Wolff, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born:
Home of Record: Detroit, Michigan

 

His unit of assignment is presumed, most of the patrol members whose unit is known were assigned to the 126TH Inf.

AitapeX

807.   

Wollmann, Arthur P.

Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Arthur P. Wollmann, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II. According to his oral history interview, he was cited for singlehandedly attacking 30-40 Japanese soldiers who were attempting to envelop his unit at Luzon, Philippines. He fired every round and threw every grenade he had; killing 21 of the enemy and forcing the rest to withdraw.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 131 (1945)

Born: 29 January 1921

Home of Record: Freeman, South Dakota

Death: 7 November 2009

Interred: Hills of Rest Memorial Park, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

 

Farmer; entered service at Ft. Leavenworth, KS in ‘42; trained at a base near Little Rock, AR and Camp Butner, NC; Saidor, Aitape, Morotai; earned Bronze Star at Leyte, Philippines; WIA 18 Dec. ‘44 at Leyte, grenade; WIA 18 Apr. ‘45 near Baguio, Luzon, Philippines, 4 machinegun bullets; 3-4 mos. in hosp.; flown back to U.S. to hosp. at Walla Walla, WA; earned Purple Heart w/OLC; worked as lab technician at a VA hosp.; he and Gene Hassebrock rescued Harold V. Sykes from his burning car on 8 Aug. ‘61 near Jewell, IA, both were later cited by Carnegie Hero Fund Commission.

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

808.   

Woods, William M.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 131 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

809.   

Woodson, Herbert C.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed: Reportedly earned the Silver Star.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 132 (1945)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

810.   

Wortham, Louis J.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
32D Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Louis J. Wortham, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Wes Norman’s War, 1st Lt. Wortham earned the Silver Star for his actions leading a patrol, which also brought back a rare Japanese POW. The brief description did not provide a lot of details or any dates. Norman’s memoir implies the patrol was along the Villa Verde Trail on Luzon ca. Apr. ‘45, a week or so after Easter. However, the GO no. suggests 1st Lt. Wortham may have earned it on Leyte.   I would need to find the actual citation or find more specific information from other references to know for sure.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 7 (1945)
Born: 1913 at Texas
Home of Record: Center, Texas

 

He entered service 10 Mar. ‘41 at Houston, TX; SN 38053725; commissioned at some point; 2d Lt. and Mess Off. of 32D Cav. Recon. Trp. at Saidor; 1st Lt. and plt. ldr. by Leyte.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

811.   

Wright, Frederick George

Private, U.S. Army
__, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 27 May 1944
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Frederick G. Wright, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” The event was summarized in a war dispatch filed from New Guinea by Arthur Veysey on 20 Aug. ’44, “The citation explained that the patrol [of 15 Soldiers] boarded a boat near Aitape the night of May 27 and sailed east along the New Guinea coast. When far east of the Driniumor river [far behind enemy lines] the men climbed into two rubber boats and paddled ashore.   Airplane flights earlier had shown that the Japs had built a truck road from Wewak almost to the point where the patrol landed. The question was how much was coming up the road. The patrol scouted the area. They found plenty. Once they almost walked into a Jap camp. When the time to re-board the rubber boats neared, the patrol was waylaid by 15 Japanese. Each American was assigned a Jap. They struck as one. Using only knives, they killed 14 of the 15 before any of them could cry a warning.   The 15th they gagged and bound and took back with them. Then they recovered the rubber boats, paddled out to a rendezvous with another boat, and raced back to their own lines.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 56 (1944)
Born: 29 June 1920 at Oconto, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Oconto, Wisconsin

Death: 8 May 1975 at Salt Lake City, Utah

Interred: Redwood Memorial Estates, West Jordan, Utah

 

Pvt. in Co. C, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Oconto, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; it is presumed he may have transferred to the 126TH Inf., most of the patrol members whose unit is known were assigned to the 126TH Inf.; also served during Korean War; attained rank of S. Sgt.; married at Elko, NV on 13 Feb. ’53.

AitapeX

812.   

Wright, James V.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade James V. Wright (ASN: 36207123), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, near Hariko, New Guinea, on 16 November 1942.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 13 June 1913 at Wisconsin
Home of Record: Columbus, Wisconsin

Death: 15 February 1962 at Madison, Wisconsin

Interred: Hillside Cemetery, Columbus, Wisconsin

 

He entered the service 11 Apr. ‘41 at Milwaukee, WI; also earned the Bronze Star.

BunaX

813.   

Yearman, Ivan Joseph

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company H, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 November 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Ivan J. Yearman, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, S. Sgt. Yearman earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 21 November 1942 near Buna, New Guinea.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 3 (1943)
Born: 9 January 1917 at Baraboo, Wisconsin
Home of Record: Baraboo, Wisconsin

Death: 20 March 1988 at Madison, Wisconsin

Interred: Sunset Memory Gardens, Madison, Wisconsin

 

He was a Pfc. in Co. H, 128TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Baraboo, WI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20650238; also cited in 32D Div. GO No. 53 (1943), which may indicate an additional award; married in ‘46, father of 2; moved to Madison in ‘56; member of   Post No. 7591 of VFW.

BunaX

814.   

Young, Edward J.

__, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Edward J. Young, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 70 (1944)

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

815.   

Young, Russell E.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 2 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Russell E. Young, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to Papuan Campaign, S. Sgt. Young earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 2 December 1942 near Soputa, New Guinea.

     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?”   Capt. Meredith M. Huggins referred to S. Sgt. Young and said of him:

     “Our lines of communication were most important because we were surrounded by Japanese. Patrols that brought us food and ammunition invariably had to fight their way in, always suffering come casualties.

     “Our telephone line ran from the road block to the command post thru hip deep swamp and thick jungle, thoroughly patrolled by the Japs. Young patrolled this line constantly to see it was kept open, killing five or six Japs he found cutting the line.    

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 21 (1943)
Born: 1 December 1918 at Indiana
Home of Record: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 22 February 1944 at Saidor, New Guinea

Interred: Lewis Creek Baptist Cemetery, Shelbyville, Indiana

Status: KIA

 

He was Pvt. in Co. I, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI, when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; he marched over Owen Stanley Mountains; it is possible that his involvement in the attempt to rescue 1st Lt. Hershel Horton was a factor in his decoration; also earned Bronze Star.

BunaX

816.   

*Zeiter, Fred J.

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army
__, __, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Fred J. Zeiter, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.” According to a wartime dispatch filed by Fred Hampson from Aitape on 10 Aug. ’44, “He saw one of his men felled by an enemy sniper.   Spitting contemptuously between his teeth, he strode forward, carried the man 60 exposed yards to safety as the sniper peppered away.” The obituary published when he was repatriated listed the date of action as 17 Jun. ‘44, I suspect the date may be a typographical error. The aforementioned press release suggests the event occurred in mid- to late-July.
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 67 (1944)

Born: 31 August 1920 at New York

Home of Record: Utica, New York

Death: 28 November 1944 at Leyte, Philippines

Interred: Saint Agnes Cemetery, Utica, New York

Status: DOW

 

Jewish; graduated Proctor H. S. in ‘38; worked for Foster Bros. Mfg. Co.; enlisted in HQ, 3D Bn., 10TH Inf., N. Y. Nat. Guard on 14 Sep. ‘39; mobilized with that unit on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20271186; 10TH Inf. redesignated 106TH Inf. when 27TH Div. was mobilized; trained at Ft. McClellan, AL and Ft. Ord, CA; promoted to S. Sgt.; shipped to Hawaii; completed OCS at Ft. Benning, GA and commissioned 2d Lt. in Nov. ‘42; new SN O-1301584; served with 32D Div., likely 127TH or 128TH Inf.; promoted to 1st Lt. in ‘44; family learned that he DOW at Leyte after he went out, under fire, to rescue 1 of his wounded men, a nearby Japanese soldier, presumed dead, threw a grenade, seriously wounding Zeiter; also earned Purple Heart; brother William served with Army in ETO; mother received his Silver Star in Jun. ’45.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

AitapeX

817.   

Ziebell, Milton Ferdinand

Major, U.S. Army
__, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Milton F. Ziebell, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”
General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 47 (1944)

Born: Circa 1903 at Wisconsin

Home of Record: Oshkosh, Wisconsin

 

Married, father of 2; resided at 38 Walnut St., Oshkosh, WI; commissioned 2d Lt. in Co. H, 127TH Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Oshkosh, WI on 28 May ‘26; promoted to 1st Lt. on 21 Jan. ‘27; Capt. and Cdr. of Co. H, 127TH Inf., on 15 Oct. ‘40; Maj. and S-3, HQ, 128TH Inf. at Buna, New Guinea; earned Silver Star; served in post-war Wis. Nat. Guard.; Lt. Col. and Cdr. of 3D Bn., 426TH Inf. ca. ‘47; retired as Col.; owned Ziebell Electric Shop, 394 W. Murdoch St., Oshkosh, WI; elected president of 32D Div. Vet. Assn. ca. ‘61.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.

 

818.   

Zinchuk, Walter J.

Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Walter J. Zinchuk (ASN: 31025928), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 114th Engineer Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, in action near Sanananda, New Guinea, on 6 December 1942.”    

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born: 1917 at Massachusetts
Home of Record: South Windham, Maine

 

He entered service 8 Jan. ‘42 at Ft. Devens, MA; SN 31025928; returned to U.S. on 1 Jul. ‘44; discharged at Camp Butner, NC on 23 Nov. ‘44; married; attended U. of Maine, electrical engineering; moved to Franklin, MA in ‘58; worked for Mass. Electric Co.; 1 of a group of nonagenarian veterans honored at Franklin (MA) Senior Center ca. 8 Nov. ’08; grand marshal of Franklin, MA 4th of July Parade in ‘14.

BunaX

819.   

Zlatykanicz, Andrew J., Jr.

Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company A, 114TH Engineer Combat Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 December 1942
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Andrew J. Zlatykanicz (ASN: 6954492), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 114th Engineer Battalion, 32d Infantry Division, near Sanananda, New Guinea, on 6 December 1942.”    

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (28 May 1943)
Born:
Home of Record: Hamilton, Ohio

 

He was assigned to Detachment of Patients, 2D Fld. Hosp. when he received his decoration; served 30 mos. overseas; discharged Aug. ‘45 at Camp Atterbury, IN; married; re-enlisted ca. Oct. ‘49; promoted to Sfc. with 5TH Armored Div. at Camp Chaffee, AR ca. 8 Mar. ‘51.

BunaX

820.   

Zuern, Vernon J.

Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company E, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Infantry Division
Date of Action:
Citation Needed – Synopsis: “Vernon J. Zuern, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division during World War II.”      

General Orders: Headquarters, 32d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 172 (1945)
Born: 11 November 1911 at Indiana
Home of Record: Big Rapids, Michigan

Death: 14 October 1970

Interred: Corinth Methodist Church Cemetery, Lake City, Florida

 

He was a Pvt. in Co. E, 126TH Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Big Rapids, MI when 32D Div. mobilized on 15 Oct. ‘40; SN 20634895.

 

This award has not been added to the WWII history information yet. Without seeing the actual citation or verifying date of action, there is not enough information to know which section to place it in.