Guestbook

A special welcome to all veterans, especially those from Illinois It has been an honor to collect and edit your World War II stories for this historic archives. Future generations will read them and appreciate your sacrifices. The World War II Illinois Veterans Memorial at Springfield was built through the efforts of WW II veterans, their spouses and children and was dedicated on December 4, 2004 at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield.

Please read the link at the right “Veterans, Submit Your Story” for information on how and what to include in order to submit your story. We hope that your wartime experiences can be added to these archives. Stories may be emailed or mailed to me through the post office along with your WW II photo for inclusion in this website.

Thank you all for your service to our country in World War II.

Click here to sign this Guestbook

Guestbook - 81 signatures

  1. Mark A. Ritterbusch Says:

    I really like the new site. The stories are inspiring and easy to locate. Thank you to the Memorial association.

  2. Sylvia Steketee Says:

    I’ve just read your page about Illinois veterans during World War II.
    I’m not a veteran, but one of the stories on your site - namely about Mr. Cecil Kenneth Belton made the hair on the back of my neck stand out.
    Let me tell you why.

    My parents lived in the small village of Midwoud during world war II.
    On the 20th of January 1945, during a snowstorm, they heard the sound of a plane coming over. Now, for people in occupied Holland this was nothing new, as American and English planes were flying over from England to bomb targets in Germany every day and night, but during the five years of German occupation they got to know the sound of those planes and also if they were in trouble or not just by the sound of the engines.

    On that day a plane broke through the clouds and it sounded like it was in trouble. It barely missed the farm where my parents were living at the time. My mom, who was seven months pregnant with my eldest brother, rushed out to see what was going on and saw a plane crash into a field opposite of the farm. My dad, making sure my mom went back into the house as he didn’t want her to be upset in her condition, rushed to the crash site along with some of the neighbors. For as long as I can remember, our parents have always told us about the American B17 that crashed just opposite their home and about the brave airmen that lost their lives. They also told us that one of them was blown out of the plane and was attendant to by our local doctor and was helped by the underground in order to get him to safety. On the 4th may - in Holland the day when we remember al those who lost their lives during WWII - we always went to the memorial - a propeller of the B17 - and placed a bouquet of field flowers to honor the young men that fought to free us from the Germans and gave their lives so that we may live in freedom now.

    Lately I’ve searched the internet to find more information about that B17 that crashed in Midwoud, it’s crew, where it’s base was in England, which bombergroup it belonged to in the USAAF etc. It does me the world of good to read that Mr. Belton made it back States side safely, married his wife Virginia and had a family. I don’t know if he is alive today, but if he is would you please send him my warmest regards and tell him my story on behalf of my parents?

    Will you please tell the veterans that somewhere in the north of Holland during WWII there once was a young girl that looked up at the sky and saw all those vapor trails and prayed: please God, let them come home safely… Will you please tell them that we are still thankful and that we still commemorate all those that fought and died.

    From me to the veterans: thank you all so very, very much for the help you gave to my country! Thanks to you I had the opportunity to grow up in freedom! And know that many people looked up at the sky and saw you guys go on a mission into Germany and prayed for you! Every vapor trail, every bit of info on their wireless was a world of hope to them…

    Sincerely yours,

    Sylvia Steketee.

  3. Aggie Fluitman Says:

    Dear mr Harris, dear Veterans,

    Back home in the Netherlands I think of you and smile!
    Thank you so very very much for your kind welcome,
    I will never forget my stay with Mr. Belton and his wife.
    I am in contact with Sylvia Steketee who’s parents were in the middle of the war just like mine…

    Aggie Fluitman

  4. mary (davidson) newman Says:

    My father John F. Davidson was killed on Aug 8, 1944. in France. He was with the 112th Inf. 28th Div. Co A. He is buried in the Brittany Cememtary
    in France. My father was born in Olny, Il on Nov. 11, 1911. Thank you very much for your time. Mary Newman

  5. Henk Bredewolt Says:

    Story of Pvt. Donald C. Weaver, A-Co., 508th. PIR., 82th. Arborne Division.

    Long after World War 2 had ended, the gravesite of PVT Donald C. Weaver was adopted by Henk Bredewolt. Henk´s quest to learn more about this soldier started after he obtained a M1C paratrooper helmet from a farmer who was living near Devils Hill (Hill 75.9)in the vicinity of Nijmegen (Groesbeek).

    The quest for Donald C. Weaver started with a helmet from WWII

    The fight for Devils Hill is one of remarkable actions of ‘Able’Company of the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division during Operation Market Garden in September 1944.

    Henk found out that despite the age of the helmet there was a distinctive name etched inside the visor, the name of a U.S. liberator who had fallen in the struggle for Devils Hill; Weaver C.

    Eventually Henk’s search led to the adoption of Donald Weaver’s gravesite, but of course his quest did not end there. Henk is still trying to get in contact with relatives or friends of PVT Donald Weaver.

    The story of PVT Donald C. Weaver as told by James ‘Blue’ Ralph Garcia of A Company, 508th. PIR., 82th. Airb. Div.

    Donald C, Weaver was killed the night of September 18-19, 1944 from enemy artillery in connection with a mine laying activity in front of the A Company position. Blue was Weaver’s squad leader and personally pulled Weaver’s body out of his foxhole, after he (Blue) returned from a patrol to his squad’s position.

    82nd Airborne drop during Operation Market Garden
    Blue added that Ralph Garcia was wounded that same night and may be able to tell more about the circumstances of his death. Pvt. Ralph Garcia was spoken: Tanks were expected that night at the A Company area. If I remember, Lt. Lamm’s platoon was assigned the detail of laying the mines. Joe Boone, my squad leader told me years later that we (our squad) were only handing the mines to the others who were laying the mines. I remember that there was a 2-1/2 ton truck loaded with mines.

    Very soon the artillery was zeroing in. We were not there long before the artillery was right on top of us. I hollered out that, ‘We had better get out soon or we would be in trouble if a round hit the truck!!!’. Luckily some of us were hit before the truck would be hit. I was hit soon after and I knew somebody else was hit too. Captain Adams found I had been hit and he ordered me to get on a Jeep and go to a field hospital.

    When I got to the Jeep somebody else was loaded in with me, I did not know who it was, I know he was wounded badly. His leg was split wide open from knee to foot and his foot was dangling from its skin. The medics put a white towel on his leg. In later years, at one of the reunions, William Bauman from A Company told me that it was a trooper named Barnett. He told me he lost his leg.

    Joe Boone tells me that somebody else had been killed by the same round.

    From documents it was deducted who was killed: A Company men Wounded in Action (WIA) and Killed in Action (KIA) during the Holland campaign.

    On September 19-20, 1944, there were 3 KIAs:
    Donald C, Weaver,
    Clyde Deaver,
    Eugene Anderson.

    A Company men WIA on September 19-20, 1944 were:
    William R. Barnett
    Ralph Garcia.

    Grave of Donald C. Weaver

    A special word of gratitude for sharing information is going out to :

    Mr. Henk Bredewolt, who adopted the grave of PVT Donald C. Weaver

    Mr. Ralph Garcia, A Company, 508th PIR, 82nd Airborne Division

    I think maybe it’s some interest for your web-site, and also I will try to come in contact with some friends, or Family of Donald C. Weaver, so I hope that somebody can and will help me.

    Regards from a friend who lives in Roosendaal, The Netherlands.
    Henk Bredewolt.

  6. Jeff Says:

    To:
     
    Sylvia Steketee. I am Cecil K Belton’s nephew. I was looking on the internet for some information about his WWII story and I came across this blog. I happen to see your post and wanted to let you know he is doing well. Although I don’t get to talk to him as much as I would like to he is one of my favorite people in the world. I’d love to somehow let you two get in touch with each other because I bet he would love to hear your story. My email is fullhouse4204u@yahoo.com. Let me know.. Thank you for your story and I will pass the word on.
     
    Sincerely,
    Jeff

  7. David Says:

    Hello,
     
    my name is David, i’m 28 years old. I wanted to thank all veterans for what you’ve done for my country.
    The French ground grew rich by the blood of your comrades.
    Without you, I will probably not have been born
     
    Thank you
     
    David

  8. John Braad Says:

    I am 48 years old and living in the Netherlands (Europe).
    I adopted two graves of WWII soldiers from the 84e division 334 inf. reg. named the Railsplitters.
    I have contact the familie of both soldiers and nows there story before the wore.
    Now I am looking for more information about there lives during his stay in Europe.
    One soldier is John Tennie Gunter he was kiled in action during the battle of the bulge.
    The other soldier is Emil Henry Schenkel he was kiled in action during the Rhinland offensive.
    Two times a year i bring flowers to the graves of this brave soldiers ho gave ther lives of the freedom of my country and Europe.
    I hope somwone can help me for information about them.
    Thanks
    Sincerely,

    John Braad

  9. Linda Elie-Ubachs Says:

    Hello,

    My name is Linda and i’m from the Netherlands.
    I adopted 2 graves in Margraten.
    I’m looking for information about the 2 gentlemen and maybe You could help me.

    The names are:
    Kuhn, Kermit D
    registrationnr.: 06999111
    unit: 309th ENGR. CMBT. BN. 84 DIV.
    State: West Virginia

    Saylor, Russell E
    registrationnr.: 32113809.
    unit:8 QM CO 8 DIV.
    State: New York.

    I bring flowers to them as much if I can, and I’m really proud that I’ve adopted them. They give there life’s for us, so this is the least i can return.
    I hope some one can help me to give me extra information.

    Thank you for very much for your time.

    Sincerely,
    Linda Elie-Ubachs

  10. J. Huisman Says:

    Hallo, that’s Dutch for hello… ;-)

    Ever since I’ve adopted a grave at the ‘Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial Margraten’ I’d really like to know more of Illinois-born:

    PFC Leonard S. Rozwalka.
    36774585
    387 INF, 97 DIV
    KIA: 
02 april 1945

    I found out through research that he was born in Cook County Il. and I’m wondering if he’s still remembered by somebody. Who could tell me more about him, his pre-war life, his steps in the war, his final steps…? Maybe there’s still family around which could help me out a bit more.
    Please feel free to contact me at juunior@mac.com with any information.
    Thank you very much.

  11. JACK MOSLEY Says:

    LOOKING FOR ANYONE FROM MY CREW STILL ALIVE.PLANE NAME BARNEYS BUZZ WAGON

  12. leonard gasperin Says:

    I am looking for any references to my Uncles that fought in ww2.
     
    Kenneth Rushing USMC and Curtis Rushing USN (USS Franklin).
     
    I am also a Marine veteran from Illinois.
     
    Any help you can provide is appreciated. Thanks

  13. Treasa Neace Says:

    I’m looking for any that may have knew my grandfather Paul Holland or my uncle John Holland they both was from perry county KY. Thanks

  14. Suzanne Seibel Finefield Says:

    Daughter of Lloyd J Seibel, of Streator, Illinoins who served in the army in the Pacific theater.

  15. Janice Flynn Says:

    Daughter of John Wolosin, PFC 84th Infantry, Belguim.  I think this is a good tribute to the Illinois WWII veterans. 

  16. Arnie Says:

    The Museum Of The Forgotten Warriors salutes our WWII veterans.
    Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.
    God Bless.
    WELCOME HOME!!
     
     

  17. Art Herzberg Says:

    Shirley Harris directed me to your web page. I am constantly amazed at the wonderful things that are being done after all of these years to honor the men who fought in WW2. I believe most of the guys who were lucky enough to survive combat, were just like me. All we did was follow orders and were glad when it ended and we got to come home. But don’t misunderstand. I like the belated attention.

    Art Herzberg
    Phoenix, Arizona

  18. Debbie Overley Says:

    Hello!!  My dad is a war orphan. My grandmother was not married to his dad.  She refused to give my dad any info on his father other than he was killed in WW2 and that his name was Johnny Guices. My grandmother was a horrible speller and I believe she spelled his last name wrong as I have’nt been able to find anyone with that last name. He was told the last name rhythmed  with duchess. I am looking for any info with a name of John or Johnny and a last name that would rhyme with duchess. I am interested in the names of Guokas, Guchas, Geighes as well as other rhyming names. Any info would be greatly appreciated!!! Photos as well if any are out there. My dad is the spitting image of his dad!!! Contact me at doverley@yahoo.com. Thank-You!!!  Debbie Overley

  19. Jeffrey Hill Says:

    I am a 50 year old American living in Amsterdam and I have visited the cemetëry in Margraten several times, once with my father, Melvin Hill from Karnak, Illinois,  who has many comrades from the 701st Tank Battalion buried there.
    My father passed away this past spring, so this will be a very special Veteran’s Day for our family. We are so proud of his contribution and all the other veterans that served so honorably.
     
    Also, a special thank you to all the Dutch citizens who have adopted graves. We Americans say, “Dank U wel!

  20. Catherine Adams Miller Says:

    I ran across this website quite by accident and truly enjoyed reading the story by Henk Bredewoldt.  My father was Capt. Adams in the 508th.  He was a wonderful father and soft spoken.  He never really talked to me about his experiences in WWII.  I believe there are a lot of men in that generation who believed it was just their duty and did not think it necessary to relay their stories.  I wish he had.  I would love to know more stories about my father and his experiences or the people he ”touched” during the war. 

  21. Geimer Says:

    I search William Claude ( Chicago ) soldier during the WWII in Europ - Luxembourg. Can you help me ?

  22. ashley Says:

    HELP PLEASE
    I must find a man by the
    name of christopher quin
    i belive he fought in war war 2
    because his dog tag is round
    please help me find out who he
    is just anything about him, so please
    contact me for any info about this man thank you
    ashla531@hotmail.com

  23. Rance Jurevwicz, Capt., USA, Ret Says:

    Great web site!

  24. Anna Mulch Says:

    I was wondering if any veterans of ww2 would be interested in being interviewed. I took a history class at llcc with Dr. Roberts, and he really inspired me. My email is delirium74@gmail.com if anyone is interested.

  25. Bill Martin Says:

    I served in New Guinea 1943-1945

  26. Deborah Garcia Says:

    Anyone with information about Herschel (Buzz) Leroy Appleton would be deeply appreciated. He was my dad I am interested in his service history. Thanks in advance.

  27. aubry Says:

    Hello,
    Am french, & am looking for any information about soldiers of the 106th cavalry group, 121st Sq. And also about Pvt Ronald A Wilson, and T5 Howard F Van Fossen. Thanks in advance
    My email is aja53@wanadoo.fr

  28. Hans-Dieter Jahr Says:

    Hi to all.
     
    As a former EOD-captain at the Baumholder training area I had a lot of contacts with so many gentle american soldiers.
    And as a railway historian and serious collector of slides and negatives of continental european railways from former times, I am searching for such items constantly in order to preserve them well for the future.
     
    Does anyone of you took such pics during your time as a soldier in Europe and wants to see them preserved as a part of our culture?
     
    If yes, I’d like to buy them from you.
    Contact me by hans-ieter.jahr@t-online.de
     
    Thanks in advance.
    Dieter

  29. 1SGT John A. Scudder Says:

    My family lives free today because of these gallant men & women.

  30. Marlene Devine Says:

    I am looking for information on my Uncle Lloyd Isbell who was in the Pacific during WW2.  I am assuming he was with the 33rd Div as I have in my possession a home-made flag with many signatures and the words around the cross in the middle: FT SHERIDAN-FT LEWIS - MOHAVE DESERT - CAMP STONEMAN -HAWAII - NEW GUINEA - MORATI - LUZON, P.I. - HONSHU, JAPAN - HOME.  My Uncle killed himself a couple years after the war ended.  I was cleaning my father’s house (he’s 91 and a WW2 vet) and found this flag.   Many men signed this flag but I am unable to find any other information.  My father does not remember much about his brother.  If anyone can help, please contact me at:
    twinmar@mchsi.com
    Thank you.

  31. Rene Peters Says:

    Hi, I am looking for a Cpl. Ben Butler, 675th Bomb Sqdn. I have some “pen pal” letters from him that I thought his family might be interesting in. They are dated March and April 1943.

    The return address has “Cpl. Ben Butler, 675 Bomb Sqdrn., 417th group, Will Rogers Field, Oklahoma City, OK

    Thank you,

    Rene’ Peters
    Madill, OK

  32. Alvin Wilson Says:

    Hi,

    I am looking for a man called H. Cover (possibly John H Cover Jr) who is white and possibly of American origin. We know he came to North Wales to attend the Wireless College in colwyn Bay and Lodge in Grange Road there. His date of birth is 29/6/1920. He would have been in his final term at the college. If anyone has any information on him, please get in touch. I would be very grateful. Thank you in advance.
    Regards Janette
    mummyt50@googlemail.com

  33. Tod Puckett Says:

    I am looking for any information regarding the actions of Lt. John Foley in and around the area of Devils Hill, Beek Netherlands.  LTC (Ret.) Foley was a friend and personal hero of mine, not for his actions in the war, but as a man.  He passed recently and I am finding out more about his military career.  He never spoke of his actions.  I do know there is a memorial garden named for him in Beek, and he earned the DSC for his actions.  Please help me keep his story alive.   tod.a.puckett@us.army.mil

  34. Fernando Rodriguez Says:

    Buenas Tardes gentleman. I am living in Mexico and doing research which led me to this site where the information and commentary have been invaluable. I praise you all for everything and appreciate your service to country and life and wish blessings to all.

  35. Melinda Elmore Says:

    I want to say thank you to all the veterans.  You are appreciated.
     
    I am trying to get some grants for the dixiewing.org If anybody has any suggestions please email me at  navajotrust@yahoo.com
    They restore WWII planes. 

    Melinda

  36. Bill Kaminski Says:

    I am trying to locate information on my Dad’s service history. He was a WWII veteran and fought in Europe. His name was Bruce E. Kaminski. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Please send information to:

    bildeb1980@hotmail.com

    Thank you in advance for your help.

  37. Sandra Walker Says:

    I am researching an event that took place in Klatovy, Czechoslovakia in early May 1945.  My Mother-in-law was rescued by American Soldiers.  If anyone has information about the Army groups or names of individuals that were the first Americans to arrive in Klatovy, I would appreciate your assistance.  Please contact me at
    sandraknox@comcast.net
    Thank you.

  38. James Says:

    hello,
        I am looking for people that was in Btry 811 AAA AW Bn U.S ARY, during WW2.My grandfather was in there from  3/16/1942 through 10/09/1945, His name was James R Fisk, I never knew him and i would like to know more about hime when he was inlisted in the army.
                           THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH IF YOU COULD E-MAIL ME AT jdawg1107@yahoo.com
                                                                        THANK YOU

  39. Harry Says:

    Can’t wait to see the Memorial.
     
    nerfhead@gmail.com

  40. Raymond Pfeiffer Says:

    Anyone with info on my father, Raymond Pfeiffer, U.S.Army, attached to 63rd Field Hospital. Inducted at Ft. Sheridan Il, I believe in 1943 or 1944. Would greatly appreciate. Father died in 70’s. Thank you.

  41. John Cooper Says:

    Hi

    Are there any Vets that served in the USAAF/USAAC or the USAF in Suffolk, England post WWII if so we would like to hear from you all

    http://Suffolk.activeboard.com/

  42. Bonnie Dodd Says:

    Hello..are there any men left who flew with the 447th bomb group in the 8th air force division..my father was a co-pilot on the B-17 the “Milk Wagon”..flying missions over Germany…Maj. Thomas J. Smith was his name…love to hear from you..

  43. Edward R Eberhardt Says:

    In Oct 1942 I went from induction in Chicago to Grant–no chow until abt 10 PM. After a sleepless night took classification tests next AM (determined your army placement)–Grant was Medical Basic training site–and lucky to be assigned there. More good fortune to be trained as veterinary tech and food inspector for Veterinary service. More good luck to be assigned as instructor in Food Inspection schl under Col. Oness H Dixon (a fellow Iowa State alumnus). Sent on detached service to Monroe, WI to buy cheese.
    Summer of 1943 ordered back to Grant and shipped out same day to Ft. Snelling, MN (one of the Army’s country clubs). Learned I was assigned for training in 88th Fd Insp det. (4 men & a capt.) for overseas duty. In fall of 1944 entrained for Cp Anza, CA and then for 30 days on Army transport Genl. John Pope to Bombay, India.
    Then across India to its farthest NE border in Assam on the Burma border. We were to run a slaughterhouse but by then wiser heads prevailed and we inspected food supplies and condemned much of them. The war in Burma finally succeeded and the Ledo road opened in Jan 1945–A tremendous accomplishment mostly by unsung black Engineers. Fall 1945 went to Calcutta to wait for deployment home. Finally in Jan 1946 embarked on Marine Wolf–after another 30 days back Anza (all my baggage in the hold stolen). No payday since Fall (had less than $2 and NO HELP from the vaunted Red Cross). A bad train trip back to Grant for discharge. Arrogant German POWs helped process us and instilled a lasting dislike of my grandfather’s compatriots. All in all, I saw and learned a lot and don’t regret any of it, especially my time in that forgotten theater–the CBI (China-Burma-India)

  44. DeeAnn Says:

    I am looking for anyone that may still be out there that served with my Father-in-law. Oran Dale Blanton He was a waist gunner on a b17 in ww2 The plane was called milk wagon.
    He is still living and I know he would love to re-connect with them. Thank You, Email blanton.deeann@gmail.com

  45. David Hubler Says:

    I have information on the 63rd Field Hospital and would be willing to share this with Raymond Pheiffer.  I can be contacted at dhubler@mchsi.com

  46. fred dodson Says:

    i served in first division from dec44 to march 24 1945 battle of the bulge we took bonn germany around march 7 1945i was wounded march 24 and sent back to 137 general hosp in england and was there untill after the war ended i was in co.a 16th inf i was a runner I was hit with with a screamingmeamie one time i was hit 3 tmes with 88 last time the got me pretty good i spent about 7 months in hosp
    feel free to contact me any time 84 years old and trying to learn this computer I have a 12 year old grand Daughter that knows computer a lot better then I do

  47. Patrica K. Hughes Says:

    I’m searching for information on my Aunt - Elizabeth L. Bouillon-Norvell. She was a member of the Women’s Overseas Service League and a disabled Veteran.  She recently passed away and I am checking into these things in her memory. 

  48. Chelsea Says:

    God Bless them all…

  49. Harold Isom Says:

    My father William H. Isom was 2nd Lt. with the 44th Division, 71st Regiment, 2nd Battalion,Co.E, WWII. Awarded Silver Star, Bronze Star with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters,V (valor), and Purple Heart. Life member of VFW post 5222, entered service from Perks, Illinois. Died, February 3, 2006 at the age of 84.

  50. Cynthia Cohrs Says:

    I am trying to help my husband, Pat Cohrs and his siblings find any info. concerning their Father, Howard W. Cohrs - 1st Class Watertender on USS Bayfield during WWII.  Can you help us please?

  51. Janice Winzinger Says:

    My father, Marion Brodsky, was discharged from the Army Air Corps March 21, 1946 at Camp Grant, IL.  He had served in England.  I’d like to know how to contact any living Army Air Corps members discharged there.  Dad is 90 now, living in Oklahoma.

  52. mike scolastico Says:

    Looking for information on anyone who served with the SCOLASTICO brothers…Sam, Hank and Joe. Hank was with the 187th Engineer Combat Battalion and Joe was with a tank unit. I believe Sam was in the infantry. Hank was my father so any information about him or the 187th Engineer Combat Battalion is appreciated. Bless all Veterans!

  53. Sue Bielski Says:

    My uncle died on Iwo Jima Feb 21,1945 He was part of the US Marines 4th Marine, 23 reg his name was Chester Bielski, platoon sgt..

  54. Lad Says:

    Hello, I am looking for a white male soldier named Marty Butcher (or any similar name - Martin, Marthy or so as First name and Baca, Butchar etc. for Surname) who served in WWII and was in a unit of gen. Patton’s army liberating western Czechoslovakia (in particular the towns Klatovy and Pilsen). He was living in Illinois in that time and probably also born there. Unfortunately I do not know any further details. My grandmother who is seriously ill now was a little girl in 1945 (when these troops came there) and this gentleman was like a second father to her since her father was killed by nazis. She lives in Czech Republic still and does not know much about technologies like Internet. If possible, I would like to get them in touch so that she can THANK him personally after all those years again - at least via an email or a call.
    Thank you very much in advance for any help!!!

  55. Alexia Svejda Says:

    I am looking for information, stories, or people that served with my husband’s Grandfather and Great-Aunt. Both served in the Pacific and were from Chicago.

    ARTHUR SVEJDA served in the Army as a physician. He was awarded the Bronze Star for being on a mission to rescue a very ill Australian that was relaying information on enemy planes. He was on a remote island that was surrounded by Japanese boats. The captain of the boat asked Arthur Svejda to steer the PT boat since he was getting sea sick and he needed to be able to stabilize the Australian for the rescue. They were successful.

    MARCELLA SVEJDA was with the WAVES. She was from Chicago and
    was stationed, at some point, in Japan. Thank you.

  56. Lad Says:

    Sorry, I forgot my contact: ljezek@atlas.sk

  57. Jane Cooper Says:

    Currently looking for VMSB 333, 3rd Air Wing, US Marine Corp men who served in Pacific Area with my Dad. Any information would be so helpful. Only 50 members remain unfound out of approx. 357. Following is a partial list of names. If anyone could help me, please e-mail me. Some are from Illinois, but many are scattered throughout US. BYRON C DARBY, JOHN B DAVIS, Jr., JOSEPH F DISESSA, RICHARD G FEAR, MARIO GRAGLIA, GEORGE W KNUTSON, JULIAN P LACETOLA, JAMES PATTERSON, Jr, ROSCOE O MOORE, MILTON H HAMILTON, IRVIN R SCOTT, WALTER J GDULA, GILBERT O LONG, FREDERICK S MILLER, HOWARD E LYON, ASBJORN J REMMEN, MICHAEL CHICUCCARIELLO, W C GOODMAN, WILLIAM P HERRON, JOHN V JORDAN, REUBEN L PARKER.

  58. Yolanda Florez Hayes Says:

    I am currently looking for a man that served in WW2 with my late father Raymond S., Florez who dies in May of 08. He had a special friend in the war and sadly was killed. His name has always been Elestein and we have a picture of him in our home. Daddy never knew how to contact his family and now I have the need to do this for him. I wish that I had done it before my dad’s death but now need to do it for him and our family. If you happen to know or remember a gentleman names Leo Elestein, I would be so greatful to now more about him and how I can find out if he had family. Please email me if you are able to help me in any way.
    Sincerely

  59. Tommy Basinger Says:

    I have been searching for a photo of marine platoon 925th. World War ll, 1943. I came across your guest book hoping that someone may be able to help me locate this photo. Thank You

  60. mike scolastico Says:

    Did you serve with any of the scolastico brothers…(Sam, Hank, Joe) during WW II? All three have sinced passed away but am anxious to learn about their war experience. If you have any memorbilia about their service would love to look at it. Known unit for Hank was the 187th Engineer Combat battalion (1943-1945). His unit left for Europe on the SATURNIA. Was in belgium, france, netherlands, luxmbrg and germany. they were attached to the 79th division when they set up the crossing of the rhine river.

  61. MR3 Shane Laemmel Says:

    If anyone is trying to locate someone i know how to help you.

    Please email me: shanelaemmel@yahoo.com

    Give me the name of the individual/s, branch of service, and rate, if possible.

    much aloha and God bless.

  62. Luud Gorissen Says:

    My name is Luud Gorissen from The Netherlands. I have adopted the grave of WWII staf sergeant Edward Trybulowski, G Comp 508 PIR, 82 Div. He was killed in action sept 23, 1944 Operation Market Garden. Edward is buried at American Cemetery Martgraten, The Netherlands. I’m searching for information and want to know if there are relatives a live. He lived 9518S 53 RD Avenue, Oaklawn Ill. I found from his files the name of his brother Dee Tribb and his sister Wanda Tribulowski, 9550 S 55th Court, Oaklawn Ill.
    I’m visiting the USA, Chicago, Hoffmann Estate with a Show and Marchingband from Maastricht, The Nethelands, were I live. We are participating in the Heartland Tattoo Festival, april 2nd till april 10th.
    It is for me very diificult to find adresses of relatives of Edward. But I would like to know more about his person. So if anyone can help, please do. If you know another adress I can contact, let me know.
    Thank you very much for your help.
    Luud Gorissen
    Maastricht, The Netherlands

  63. Shirley Brunkow Says:

    I am writing in hopes that someone will know how I can contact relatives of Sgt. William G. Williams who died in an air crash in Nebraska Oct. 25, 1943. I am a member of the Milligan Memorial Committee and we are erecting a Nebraska State Highway Marker to commemorate the airmen who were involved in a crash near Milligan, NE Oct. 25, 1943. We are searching for relatives of the 17 airmen who died in this crash in which there was one survivor. We will put together a pamphlet that will be near the marker for the public to take that will tell a brief story of each airmen and his picture if one is available. The airmen that I am looking for is Sgt. William G. Williams who was a gunner on the plane and originally from Berwyn, IL. He was one of the 17 casualties of the crash.
    At this time we know little about Sgt. William G. Williams so searching for relatives is difficult. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Williams of 1400 Elwood Ave. in Berwyn and he graduated from Morton High School in Cicero and worked at the American Can Company before he entered the service on November 16, 1942. I found the name Williams and phone numbers on the Internet but there are literally hundreds of them. I know that his body was returned to the James J. Svec Funeral Home in Berwyn so I am assuming that was where some relatives were.
    If you have no knowledge of this airmen feel free to forward to anyone you think may be of help.
    Our project is funded by the Milligan Public Library and local donations. We are not asking any of the relatives for any funds. We just want to preserve the memory of the servicemen who gave their lives to help preserve our freedom.
    My email is sbrunkow@windstream.net if you prefer to contact me in this way.
    Here’s hoping I hear from you either way.
    Shirley Brunkow
    Box 275
    Milligan, Ne 68406
    Phone # 402 629 4484

  64. jack mosley Says:

    I WAS A TAIL GUNNER IN WWII. I WAS WITH 446TH BOMB GROUP, 705 SQUADRON. I FLEW IN B36, B52, B29, B17, B24. IM ALIVE & LIVE IN SCOTTSDALE AZ. I HAVE PURPLE HEART, 3 BRONZE, SILVER STAR, & DFC. SHOT DOWN THREE TIMES HIT TWICE. BAILED OUT ONCE , CRASH LANDED THE OTHER TWO.

  65. Gail Burns Gentile Says:

    I am the daughter of Dean Burns who flew on the Citadel with Harold Adams and crew. He was a RO and gunner. They flew over 50 missions in a B-24. I have a picture of all the men in front of their plane. The names read Ausby, Gerald,Harry, Harold, Stanley, McDonald, Anderson,Balliet, and Adams. Trying to find Cory Adams who I believe is a relative of Harold. He posted all these mens name and I know he or someone related would like the photo. I also believe Harold flew on a plane called Willie Nillie?

  66. Mike Moore Says:

    There are 3 sons of 106G members who are compiling the history of the 106th Cavalry Group as well as 106Sq and 121Sq. If anyone would like some assistance with information or has any information for us, we can be reached at nevguy@yahoo.com My father was Lt. Robert Moore of 2nd pl B Troop 121 and later XO of B Troop. Gary Palmer and Dr. Raymond Teske Jr. are the other 2 participating in this herculean task. Thanks to all our Veterans!!!

  67. Gary Palmer Says:

    Gary Palmer Says: Your comment is awaiting moderation.

    April 1st, 2010 at 10:56 pm
    I am a member of the 106th Cavalry Group Association, I am writing a book with the help of two other members - Mike Moore and Raymond Teske jr. expanding the history of the 106th during WWII. We have discovered numerous tidbits of information - such as the ship that 106 Headquarters and 106th A Troop were on was in fact torpedoed. The 106th Cavalry Group is having a Reunion on June 25, 26, 27 in Rangel, Illinois. If interested in attending please contact me at gepalmer@san.rr.com If you wish to share any stories I would welcome hearing anything you might have to add to the history of the 106th.

  68. Henk Bouwels Says:

    Hallo allemaal,
    Wie kan mij helpen aan informatie, familie, foto’s etc.van
    Pvt Weitock Arthur J
    Reg Nr 16175196
    508 PIR
    KIA 21 Sept’44 Holland (market garden)
    Staat Illinois

    Dank voor uw aandacht
    Met vriendelijke groet
    Henk Bouwels
    Weert
    The Netherlands

    henkdenise@home.nl

  69. Henk Bouwels Says:

    Hello everybody,
    Who can help me to any information, pictures, family about
    Pvt Weitock Arthur J
    Reg. Nr. 16175196
    508 PIR Hq3rd
    KIA 21 sept’44 Holland (Market Garden)
    State Illinois
    For any information please contact me
    henkdenise@home.nl

    Thanks for your attention
    Best regards
    Henk Bouwels
    Weert
    The Netherlands

  70. Ann Barlament Says:

    I am looking for men that were in the 41st Infantry Division in WWI, Pacific. He was an Aideman in the Medics, Company C.

    Would like to reconnect with his fellow soldiers. I’ve found 18 and still looking for the following: Capt Sleeter, Lieut Nannariello MD, Frank Davey, Robert Olson, George Schwender, Jim Coughlin, Leonard Edwards, John Crawford, Gene Blake, Fred Miller, Charlie Baugh, and “Kelly” Sczewczykowski.

    Thank you!

  71. Shirley Brunkow Says:

    Still looking for relatives of Sgt. William G. Williams of Berwyn, IL who died in Fillmore County Nebraska near Milligan October 25, 1943.

  72. robyn ring jacobs Says:

    I am assisting my father in hopefully finding some of his crew members. Sgt Eugene Ring, 20th Army AirForce, 504th group, 313th wing, 421st squad. Dad was a mechanic on his plane E-37. Originally from Ohio, he trained in Oklahoma and in Washington with Boeing before going to Tinian. He remembers two of his crew members last names -one was Morehouse, the other was Frank Sevoy. He now lives in Peoria Arizona.

  73. tim1234tim1234 Says:

    God bless you for your Great Website

  74. Brisbois-Sauber Suzette Says:

    May 23rd 2010
    Hello,
    I live in the small village Waldbredimus in Luxembourg, Europe.
    In a forest near our house, I discovered a tree with an old inscription and
    it seems to have something to do with an American soldier who died
    there in WWII.
    It’s difficult to decipher:
    F Gales (?)
    DIVISION
    199th infanterie
    UTAH
    USA 19..
    R.I.P.
    Nobody in my husband’s family knows about this inscription or its
    meaning, but I’d like to know.
    I found this website and maybe someone can help me or tell me
    where to look and search.
    Thank you!

  75. Maria Leunissen Says:

    I live in the Netherlands not far from the American War Cemetery Margraten.
    My daughter and I adopted 6 graves.Today we layed down flowers on the graves,because these brave men give their live for us.

    I like to know more about:

    MARX,DONALD L
    Servicenumber:36059272
    Born:1915,Illinois
    Hometown:Wabash County IL
    Company-Squadron:324th Bomb Squadron
    Unit- Group:91st Bomb Group Heavy
    Date of death:4 March 1943
    Gravenumber:Plot J, Row 3, Grave5

    I hope someone can tell me more about these soldier
    Sincerely,
    Maria

  76. Gerald Negrotto1@cox.net Says:

    God bless you for the love of the U S A and its forgotten soldiers. Our world is in a mess,We can only pray. I live in New Orleans,La proper.What can I say,1st Katrina than the oil spill.Life goes on.I see the faces of my grandchildren,so happy and sweet as they play ball and swim.What will be in the future. I know nothing of your country….If you go to ,oh dear Ican not think….but put in records of ww2 soldiers.you are able to get the records of any soldier,it is open.You can then look up the address,or last name and probably find family in that city…can I help? Sincerely Catherine Negrotto

  77. Lynn ALexander Says:

    I am trying to connect with anyone who may have served with my father during WWII in India. His name was Ferris Alexander, he was from MPLS, MN., he enlisted in March 1942 and was discharged in December 1945. He was a Surgical Tech. or Medic, his Service number 37161513, his original destination was the 18th Field hospital. Please feel free to contact me, his daughter Lynn @anth7@aol.com. Any information would be so appreciated. Thank you

  78. Henk Bouwels Says:

    Hello everybody,

    Who can help me to any information, pictures, family, about,

    2LT John L Wenger
    Reg Nr: O-686706
    Unit: U.S. Army Air Forces, 614th Bomber Squadron, 401st Bomber Group,Heavy
    KIA Friday February 04 1944 Frankfurt Germany
    State: Illinois
    For any information… Please contact me at henkdenise@home.nl
    Thanks for your attention.

    Sincerely,
    Henk Bouwels
    Weert
    The Netherlands

  79. Mike Wong Says:

    Tommy i might have found a photo of marine platoon 925th. World War ll, 1943. Post back and let me know thx. Mike

  80. Ron Hickey Sr Says:

    My father, John Thomas Hickey served with the PT Boats ( Ron Squadron ) in the South Pacific, taking part in many of the battles during WWII. He passed away at the age of 79 in 2004

  81. Dennis R. Pumphrey Says:

    My dad, Dennis Carroll Pumphrey was a Sgt. in the 322 Infantry. After the war he come back home to Monroe, Louisiana, married and raised 3 children. He passed away in 1977. Does anyone know of my father and how to obtain information on assignment and awards he recieved. I have a few items but would like others. Since the fire in 1973 destroyed military records of the Army. I haven’t had must success.

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