s the hourglass

The Semi-Annual Newsletter of the 7th Infantry Division Association

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The Hourglass

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Summer 2006

Comments from yourPresident

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Published byGARP Custom Newsletter Service

www.garponline.com t [email protected]

7th Infantry Division Association8048 Rose Terrace

Largo, FL 33777-3020www.7th-inf-div-assn.com

In this issue...1. Comments from your President2. We Get Letters8. Ron Levendoski’s Story

10. America’s Freedom Road11. The Pincers Close11. Treasurer & Roster Manager’s Report12. The Quartermaster’s Store14. Seekers Page14. “The Hourglass” Staff14. Treasurer’s First-Quarter Report16. Atlanta Reunion Photo Roundup20. God and the Spider20. Poems from a Military View21. Membership Stats21. 7th IDA Reference Library22. 7th Division Soldier Remembers22. Spread The Word!23. Aleutian Campaign Certificate24. Glen Burdick’s Korea ‘4526. Korean Truce Remembered26. Books of the 7th ID27. The Chaplain’s Corner29. New Member List29. The 7th IDA Booster Club30. Occupying Hokkaido Before The War31. Prisoners Freed by Reds32. Editor’s Chair - Seat of Privilege33. Best Christmas Story34. Membership Application Form35. Final Taps36. Dues Status

Your President,

Gene Peeples

In February, my wife Elaine and Iattended the Fiftieth Anniversary of ourFirst V.P. Dennis Camp and his lovelywife, Mary Jo, in Huntsville,Alabama. Dennis, we pray you willhave many more! Dennis and hiscommittee are hard at work on the 2007reunion to be held in Colorado Springs,adjacent to Fort Carson, with many

events planned, thanks to the invitation of MG Robert W.Mixon.

In April, I will be attending a meeting with the ArmyDivisions Association in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This isthe organization that places an annual advertisement in theVFW, American Legion and other veteran’s organizationpublications encouraging veterans to join and support theirDivision Association. Their advertisements, in the past, havemade a significant contribution to increasing ourmembership.

I also would like to extend my personal thanks to the 26members who contributed $545.00 to the Booster Club sincethe last report. See page 29 for the recognition list. I hopeto see the names of many more in the next edition. It isthese contributions that have made possible two editionsof The Hourglass.

I encourage those of you with computers to visit our website frequently. Our webmaster, James Bryant, has done amagnificent job expanding the site and making it user-friendly. You can now pay your dues, order merchandisefrom the Quartermaster Store and use a credit card to makethe required payments.

I sincerely hope everyone will attend our June 2007 reunionin Colorado. Complete information will be in the WinterHourglass.

The Hourglass Summer 2006s

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We Get Letters

Dear Charlie:I am the person who is trying to get ourgovernment to remove the Japanese Memorialoff Attu Island, Alaska. I was in Hawaiithe last week of November and firstweek of December. Met our mutualfriend, Doug Halbert (7th Div.Association Treasurer) who treated mywife and I like royalty.

Congratulations on your being our Editor.As the western cowboy used to say, “Youdid a good job with the current‘Hourglass.’ You’ll do to ride the riverwith.”

Since my first letter to Governor FrankMurkowski of Alaska June 3, 2003 regardingremoval of the disgraceful Japanesememorial of the hallowed soil of EngineerHill, Attu, Alaska, I have written 80 to100 letters to our President, Andy Card,Vice President Cheney, major veteransmagazines, Time, National Geographic, PaulHarvey, senators, congressmen, majornewspapers, etc.

Only 3 percent had the courtesy to answer.My resolve is firm. I shall persevere.

Good luck as our Editor.

Sincerely,Bill Jones

204 S. Tara Dr.Tavaares, FL 32778-3676o O o O o O o O o O o

Re: Korean MedalsCharlie:I re-read your letter and have concludedthat the man is talking about thepossibility that he is eligible for the

Army of Occupation medal.

The URL that provides theeligibility guidelines is http://foxfall.com/csm-army-aom.htm Note

that the medal is for those whoserved in Korea between September3, 1945 to June 29, 1949. Thirty

consecutive days of service establisheseligibility. It is also available to thosewho served in Japan from September 3,1945 to April 27, 1952 so it would notmake any difference if the man spentpart of his time in Korea and part of histime in Japan.

Now to the question of how he gets one ifhe is, in fact, eligible.

If he feels deserves this medal or awardand it was never authorized, he may applyas a first-time recipient for that awardto his military department’s Awards Branchusing form DD-149. He will also berequired to submit military recorddocumentation, eyewitness statements andother evidence confirming his eligibilityfor the medal or award he is applyingfor.

TO APPLY FOR A FIRST TIME AWARD HE THINKSHE DESERVES, HE NEEDS TO

# 1. obtain a copy of Form DD-149

# 2. complete the form with the fullestamount of info he knows about his militaryservice

# 3. send the completed DD-149 to theappropriate address on the back of theform

Army Personnel should send their completed


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We Get Letters (cont.)

DD-149 along with a copy of his DD-214which establishes the dates he wasassigned to Korea to:

CommanderPERSCOMAttn: TAPC-PDO-PAArmy Awards Branch200 Stovall StreetAlexandria, VA 22332-0471

The man will also have to specificallystate that he was never issued the medaland request that the medal, if authorizedby the board, be issued.

Hope this helps.Doug Halbert

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Hello Charlie:I hope you enjoyed my book (One Man’sNostalgic and Inner Most Thoughts). I amasking for a correction in the next“Hourglass. In my story in it ( We GetLetters, Page 10, Fall 2005 issue) yousaid we went to Attu from Hawaii. Shouldhave been we went back to Hawaii fromKwajalein and from there to Leyte. Ihave had two calls already.Thanks. Have a nice Xmas.

F.J. Lambert1149 Bayside R. #148Elgin, IL 60123-1536

Editor’s Note: Happy to make the clarification. I haveexamined your fine book and have plans in 2006 to read it.Thank you very much. Francis and the late President RonaldReagan are featured on the cover. Francis was a delegate atthe Republican National Convention in 1976.


Hi Charlie,I just want to add my voice to thosewelcoming you as the editor of TheHourglass. I’ve received the publicationfor several years now, and I peruse every

bit of it. It’s a great contact that brings back many memories - some badones but many good ones too.

I’m happy that we’re to have a 7th I.Dreunion at Fort Carson in 2007. Severalyears ago, when the 7th was reactivated,a group of us attended the ceremonies. Athrilling experience. I especiallyremember Doug Halbert, a good man that’sworked hard to keep the Association alive.I just sent Doug my dues for the next twoyears. He was gracious to make sure thatI received The Hourglass after my change-of-address.

I’m all of 76 years of age now, so I’vemany years left.

I served in Korea in 1952-1953, a memberof the 48th FA Bn. Col. Jos. S. Kimmittled the group while I was there. A finemilitary man. He died about a year ago,and I’d like to write a bit about him ifI could. His son is the General MarkKimmitt, now serving in Iraq.

I’d also like to write in later issues abit about my buddies of the 48th. Havingthe opportunity would urge me to searchthem out if they’re still alive. Someare (or were) members of the 7th Inf DivAssn..

I’m in the process of writing my memoirs with chapters about my army experienceand my river-running days on the ColoradoRiver. I write for the Canyon CountryZephyr, a southeastern Utah bimonthlypaper, on a number of historical andenvironmental topics. You can Google theZephyr or my name to check me out.

If I can be of help please let me know. Icould surely help in regards to the FortCarson reunion. I talked with an officerof records at the time of the


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reactivation, and he indicated that hecould help me in digging out recordspertaining to the 48th. He’s probablylong gone from there, but I found theofficers then at Fort Carson most willingto help.

I wish you well Charlie.

Ken SleightPack Creek Ranch333 Abbey Road

Moab, Utah 84532eMail:<[email protected]>

Office Tel:(435) 259-8575o O o O o O o O o O o

Editor’s Note: The following is a personal note fromTreasurer Doug Halbert has written to Ken Sleight, one ofthe new contributing editors of The Hourglass. I ampersonally grateful to him and to Joe Swan of San Jose,CA, and Joe Bryant of Branson West, MO, for acceptingsimilar roles. If any other member of the 7th DivisionAssociation desires to serve on the staff, we’ll find a spotfor you. Let me hear at <[email protected]>

Ken:I do remember your participation at thetime of the re-flagging of the Divisionin 1999. If fact, that was when you firstjoined the association, I think. We sureappreciate your continued support of theassociation.

I cannot thank you enough for volunteeringto help Charlie with The Hourglass. Heis now putting out two editions a yearand it takes about 4 months fromconception to putting the document inthe mail. That is 8 months of work. Itried to do it by myself for three yearsand it was a constant millstone aroundmy neck. Charlie is well experienced inthe production of printed media becausethat is what he did during his workinglife. The more help he can get, the betterthe product will be and the lesser chance

of him becoming discouraged about thework involved. So, people like you are agreat contribution.

By the way, if you are going to do awrite-up on the re-flagging, I thoughtthis excerpt from the 1999 Hourglass mightbe of use to you. [Not included here.]Also, you might be interested in thefact that the current Division Commander,MG Mixon, was the Assistant DivisionCommander under MG Riggs at the time ofthe re-flagging.

We are currently working on a project ofscanning every Hourglass we can find andputting them on the web site. 1991 to thepresent is easy because I have them all.Gene Peeples has 1980 to 1990 and issending them to me for scanning. It takesabout three hours per edition to scan toelectronic form but when the job is done,the historical documents will be preservedforever. The older Hourglasses makeinteresting reading. As the years go alongyou can see the transition of contentfrom WW II to Korea.

Thanks again for your assistance toCharlie and stay in touch,

Doug Halbert O o O o O o O o O o

Dear Charlie:While working as a volunteer on theBattleship New Jersey museum I met aveteran of the 7th Infantry Division,184th Regt., Company K. His name: JohnYurkow, 215 Woodlawn Terr., Collingswood,NJ 08108. John is discouraged because he has triedto locate anyone who was with him duringthe battle of Okinawa. His records forhis service in Korea are available, butnot his service during Okinawa. He hasnever been awarded the Combat Infantry


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Badge. I am writing to you after findingyour note in the “Hourglass,” loaned tome by Jim Milliken, 31st Regt. The thought is if he could locate anyonewho remembers him from Okinawa, then hemight persuade the Veterans Adm. to issuethis cherished badge. Or if you cansuggest another approach, thank you. I am Editor of the Hoodlum News, 301stInfantry Association, 94th InfantryDivision., having served in WWII. I wouldlike to exchange publications with yourassociation if that is your practice. Iwould like to use some of your materialin the Summer 2005 issue with yourpermission. Our latest issue is enclosed.H.N. is distinct from our Divisionpublication the “Attack.”

Good luck as you take over the editor’sjob on “The Hourglass,” a fine unitpublication.

Sincerely,Bob Cassel

407 Heritage RoadSewell, NJ 08080


Dear Charlie Richardson,Recently I contacted Doug Halbert forsome information and inadvertently (orintentionally) mentioned that I hadwritten a book regarding my experiencewith the 184th Regt. on Okinawa. Hesuggested that you might like to receivea copy. So, here it is. I hope that youenjoy it although I am far from an expertwriter. Feel free to use any part foryour publication.

If you know of anyone who would like acopy, they can obtain from any largebookstore, using the ISBN number. Theywill not receive the pocket of photos. Iwill send a copy of the book with the

photos if they mail me a check for $20.

Thanks for your interest. I would welcomeyour comments as I am starting my secondbook.

Don Carlton745 Temple St. San Diego, CA 92106

Editor’s Note: Many thanks, Don, for the attractive 159page paperback, “Wanna Live Forever? A Machine gunner’sadventures during the battle for Okinawa—World War II.” Ilook forward to digesting its contents in the near future.

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Gene:I hear from sons of fathers that were onAttu, seeking information of what I knowof Co. A and Co. B of l7th Inf. I willlist the one on the Internet who lives inMichigan, the other in Texas.

Two of my buddies have recently passedon. They are Jess F. Troutman, Co. A,l7th IR of 246 2nd West Pkwy, Sheridan,WY 82801-3237, who passed away on March26th, 2005, and leaves his widow, KayTroutman and family. Charley Howardof 32nd Reg., 7th Div., who passed awayon April 6, 2005. Charley and his wife,Collene, both died nine days apart. Theiraddress was 1251 East Ave., Chico, CA.They leave a daughter and a son. Charleylived one mile from us.

The sons are James Laverdure, son ofFrenchie Laverdure, Co. B, l7th Inf.,638 Mockingbird LN., Clarkston, MI 48346and Stephen Newell, 15888 County Road346 A, Terrell, TX 75161. Stephen’s dadcame home after he was wounded, stayedin Reserve and was First Sgt in theIllinois National Guard.

Barney E. Laman960 Azalea Ave.

Chico, CA 95983-0902o O o O o O o O o O o


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Dear Sir:Received the 7th I.D. “Hourglass” andnoted dues overdue. We moved from Honoluluin February to Florida. Bought a housein Valarico (Brandon) on 8 April.(2005) We love it here.

I noted when they showed me as a newmember...in 2003 and that they theylisted me in the 3lst Inf. Actually, Iwas in the 3lst FABN “B” Btry. Betterknown as the “Blasters.”

Thanks for listening...There is a lotmore to this story: 22 years in Army, twowars, Korea and Vietnam...53 years ofmarriage....

Gayle E. WestbergValrico, FL.

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Dear Treasurer and Officers of the 7thID Assn.:I have several good pictures of the Koreanoccupation, 1945. I promise to send youcopies after the first of the year, and abit of nostalgia note FYI.

Sincerely,Albert (Bert) Skaggs

184th and 31st Inf. Regt. veteran1744 Daphne Ave.

Sacramento, CA 95864-1704 PS Excellent Fall 2005 “Hourglass”newsletter!

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Please see photo on page 17 of Camp Casey,Korea (last newsletter). I was stationedthere the following year, 1963-64. Coldestplace on the planet. Still retain vividmemories...and the adjoining“village”...Tongduchon. Every Americanshould travel there. They would have abetter appreciation of what our ArmedForces endure on foreign soil. Please

note address change.

Gary D. Cook199 Melrose Drive

Falling Waters, WV 25419 O o O o O o O o O o

Dear Doug:I wish to join the 7th IDA Booster Club.Please find enclosed my check for $50. Ialso wish to comment on the (Hourglass,Fall 2005 issue) article on Bob Ronish.I served with him (he was then a Captain)with USCAR on Okinawa. We correspondedat least annually (Christmas) and untilI read that article I could not recallour ever knowing we both were with the7th ID. Small world. He will hear of thistoo.

Ernest W. EldredgeAFRH-W 1004

3700 N. Capitol St., NWWashington, DC 2001-8400

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Hi:Since I have been a member I don’t rememberreading anything about the 17th Inf.guarding prisoners on Kaje-Do and Cheju-Do island. (Of course, I easily couldhave missed any article).

The division went into reserve in October1952, The first and second battalionswent to Kaje-Do and the 3rd to Cheju-Doto guard prisoners. We moved back up online sometime the latter part of December.I was the Battalion communications chiefof 3rd Battalion.Sincerely,

Dwaine F. SelkRetired lst Sgt252 Cap De Villa

Lolo, MT 59847-9612O o O o O o O o O o


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Gene:I met Carl Galdina at a fresh fruit stand.Being I was wearing a Korea veteran hat,we talked about each other’s experiences.He was in Korea in 1950 and I was therein 1952.

July 5, 1953 to July 10, 1953 the 7th washit hard. Volunteers were asked to assistthe 7th. I drove a M39 personnel carrier.We loaded up ammunition of all grades.Each 39 would leave and only after itreturned would another one would leave.Never would all 39s leave because of thein-coming rounds.

We at the base of the base of the hillunloaded the ammunition, placing boxesand canisters on the A-frame of the SouthKorean volunteers, would run along theroad and unload the boxes.On the returntrip, we loaded each and every 39personnel carrier, took off for the aidstation with wounded and then returnedfor another trip for the hill. The recordstates we removed 500 wounded from PorkChop.

I have asked and tried to get informationabout the 7th Division and have beenunable. I have flash backs from Koreaand a part of me is still there becauseof Pork Chop. I am 73 years old, and Icarry the honor of the 7th Division withme all these years.Respectfully,

Ray Augustyniak8646 Burnham AvenueChicago, Il 60617

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In June 1952 I arrived in Korea fromSeattle. I was assigned to the 7thDivision’s 57th Field Artillery B Battery.While there we took part in the Battlesof Pork Chop Hill, Old Baldy, Heartbreak

Ridge. Many more. On July 9th, 1953 wetook a direct hit from Chinese artillery,leaving 105 destroyed. I dedicated a blockin our Veterans Memorial in honor of myfallen buddies.

John Robison914 Woodlawn Ave.

Waukegan, ILO o O o O o O o O o

For one of my next projects I would liketo create an historical archive ofHourglass back issues in electronic formatand make them available to the membershiponline. For this purpose I wouldappreciate it if you would send me all ofthe back issues of the Hourglass thatyou have in electronic format (preferably.PDF but I have the means to convert mostother document formats to .PDF). It isalso possible to scan and convert non-electronic copies but this would be aslow and time consuming process and wouldnot be error free.

You could e-mail the ones that you alreadyhave in electronic format or burn a cdand mail it to me. Whichever way is easieron you, but I would like to get somethingfrom you as soon as possible so that Ican get started on this project (I amcurrently between major projects at workso I have some time at the present).

I have not forgotten about your suggestionto write something for future issues andI will try to get that accomplished andto you before the March deadline. If youhave any photos or other information thatyou would like to share with me forpossible inclusion on the web site pleaseforward that to me also.

Thanks again,James J. Bryant

WebmastereMail:<[email protected]>

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Ron Levendoski’s StoryBy Ronald R. Levendoski, CSM, U.S. Army (Ret)

I was drafted into the Army in 1952. I had a 16-week Infantrybasic training at Fort Riley Kansas. I was then trained in an8-week Leadership School, part of this training includedSpecial Ranger Training in Self-Defense and Hand to HandCombat taught by U.S. Army Rangers.

Then I was on a troop ship for 17 days on the way to Japan.After a short time in Sasebo, Japan I was sent directly toKorea. After a two-day crash refresher infantry course I wason the frontlines in the Chorwon Valley. I went in as areplacement and was assigned to I Company, 31st InfantryRegiment of the 7th Infantry Division.

Things happened fast from that point, soon after meetingmy squad leader we were ordered to our fighting positions,little did I know what to expect. Being on the front line wasa new experience, but I soon knew the importance of basictraining; it was survival in combat. After some time thisbecame the way it was and we all adjusted to it.

From here on I will attempt to tell about some of my combatexperience during the Korean War. I am telling my combatexperience to simply give you an idea of what the war inKorea was like when I served. I will not go into great detailbut give you a brief overview. First of all, I want to makeone thing very clear about the soldiers who served in 1951,at the start of the War and throughout the war; all theirsacrifices will never be known. Think of those who weresurrounded in the Frozen Chosin, killed in action, the POWsand the MIAs are the soldiers who sacrificed so much, letus never forget them.

I did not keep a diary in regard to the exact dates and places,but I will do the best I can to recall the events. I will dwellon the month of July 1953 because this was the time theChinese Communist Forces launched a furious six-divisionassault on the mainline of resistance (MLR). Fightingreached intensity not seen on the Korean War battlegroundsince 1951. There was intense fighting July 6-10, the fightingwas mainly from dusk to dawn.

Dale’s Outpost was the area I was in at this time; ourCompany had one Platoon on Dale’s Outpost. Old Baldy

was not far away, but was across the valley from ourcompany. Dale’s and West View Outposts were labeled theHellish Outposts.

Fighting raged on the forward slopes of the outpost fromearly nightfall until after midnight, but ended before daylight.These outposts were critical to establishing the final linebefore the truce, if the truce was to come. Artillery and mortarfire has been estimated at between 128 to 132 in comingrounds every 90 seconds. The bursting and screaming ofartillery shells of this number is the most frightening loudsounds a person can stand. I saw one soldier go out of hismind; it took six soldiers to tie him on a litter so they couldcarry him away to an Aid Station.

The Chinese attacked at night, mistakenly believingAmericans to be more vulnerable during the night fighting.During one of the nights of these fierce attacks, myself,another soldier and a radioman were located in front of ourlines on out-guard duty. We were approximately 700-1000yards in front of our lines in enemy territory. We were in thecorner of a rice paddy where there was a clump of trees, thetrees were gone of course, but the stumps were still there.We used these stumps for some protection from enemy fireand being seen by the enemy. We had to be hidden as wellas possible because we were not allowed to shoot unlessour lives depended on it.

Our mission was to keep our Company CP informed of whatthe Chinese were doing. When it got extremely dark we kepthearing what sounded like cat meows. We would hear oneout to the left, then to the right The meows continued asthey, the Chinese, went on by us on both sides. They wereheaded directly to Dale’s Outpost and our company area,which was to the east of Dale’s Outpost. Our radioman keptour Command Post (CP) informed of what was happening.

Other than these signals by the Chinese, it was extremelyquiet. All of a sudden there were two large red flares andtwo green flares shot high into the sky and this was the signalby the Chinese to attack. Instantly after this everything brokeloose, the Chinese were already in the trenches at Dale’sOutpost, our mortar units immediately sent up hundreds offlares, which were on small parachutes and lighted up thewhole area. The Chinese were so thick on the hill; they werelike ants on an anthill. As another guy described it, it waslike a carpet moving up the hill, there were so many. It was


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so intense with small arms fire and artillery shells; it wasunbelievable what was happening. The amount of small armsand machine gun firing was unbelievable also; but theartillery was the worst. The fields of fire and crossfire madeit almost impossible for anyone to penetrate the line. Duringthe day we would put a tracer in every third round in ourmachine gun belts so you could see where you were firingat night.

There was so much firepower it would have been hard toget through our lines, except hundreds of Chinese werealready on the outpost. The American Commander on Dale’sOutpost had to call a retreat. After the Americans retreatedoff the Outpost, the Commander called in VT, an artilleryshell that is set to go off at a specified height. Most of theseyou could see exploding at approximately waist level. Thenthe artillery VT really increased, we were in such a positionthat we could view what was happening with the sky beinglighted so well. As the artillery VT shells were explodingyou could literally see men cut in half and body parts flyingthrough the air in all directions. I never had seen such intenseshelling as that night. It was such heavy shelling that it killedeveryone on the outpost.

When the troops went back the next morning, there was oneliving Chinese soldier walking around and he evidently wasshell-shocked, he didn’t know what was going on. Thetrenches were full of dead Chinese. The three of us whowere on out-guard duty in this rice paddy were in the middleof the artillery battle for Dale’s Outpost, none of us got hit.We were lucky, we were only hit with mud from the ricepaddy as some of the artillery shells hit in the rice paddyclose to us.

People talk about the Battle of Pork Chop Hill, but duringthe Korean War many battles were fought on Pork ChopHill. The three deadliest battles on Pork Chop Hill were allin 1953; on March 23, 1953, April 16-18, 1953 when 112were KIA, and on July 6-10, 1953, when 232 were KIA.

On July 28th, the morning after the truce, we hadapproximately three days to police up the front lines, cleaningout the trenches, the bunkers, removing weapons, ammo,etc. Our unit then moved out and off the MLR and headedto a new area. We started what is now called Camp Casey inKorea; I served there for a few weeks. Then I was selectedto be a member of the 558 Military Police (MP) and Counter

Intelligence Detachment (CID) Unit in Seoul. This was anhonor and a great experience to serve in this unit. First ofall, this unit was made up of all Infantry men from all unitsthat served on the front lines; you had to have been awardedthe Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) to be assigned to this unit.This was the most interesting and the sharpest unit I everserved in. Being this was right after war we had manyinteresting assignments in Seoul and surrounding areas. Mostof our assignments were from General Taylor and his Staff,as we were working directly for 8th Army Headquarters inSeoul, Korea. I served out the rest of my time in this unitand then returned to the States. I was sent to Fort SheridanIllinois to be processed out of the Active Army.

I joined the Active Army Reserve after returning home. Iserved in the Construction Engineers for a few years thenserved in three different Combat Engineering Units. I workedmy way up to First Sergeant in the first unit, then I wasselected as the Command Sergeant Major for the Battalion.After a few years I was selected as the Command SergeantMajor of the 385th Engineer Group at Fort Snelling,Minnesota. This was an interesting assignment. The 385thEngineer Group had several units in many states; thisinvolved lots of traveling, covering units in five states andGermany. The one unit in Germany was our counter-part;we had two assignments in Germany during my time withthis unit. Working in Germany with this unit was a greatexperience. Our mission and training in Germany was basedon an invasion by the Russians as this was during the ColdWar and the Berlin Wall.

In September of 1987 I retired from the Active Army Reservewith total of 35 years including my Active Army Duty time.I then transferred to US Army Reserve Control Group andserved 4 years and 7 months. I had a grand total of 39 yearsand 7 months in service when I was discharged and retiredon 31 May 1992.

I also worked at the Trane Company. I was a Designer inEngineering and worked on the development of newproducts; I retired from Trane Company in April 1994.

Ronald R. LevendoskiCSM, U.S. Army (RET)

Brownsville, MN


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A Soldier’s Journey onAmerica’s Freedom Road

By Leslie S. Ellis

First Lt., Co. C, l7th Inf., 7th InfantryDivision Dates of Service: Jan. 6, 1943to May 4, 1946

I received orders to report to Fort Ord,California, January 1945. Shortlyafterwards I was ordered to Fort Lewis,Washington (Tacoma). Upon arriving atthis port of embarkation I was againcalled up on to use my transportationexperience and learn to operate severalmilitary vehicles. After completion ofthis training I was ordered to commanda regiment of replacement troops being transported toHawaii. All went well in spite of being scared several timesof sighting of Japanese submarines. After spending sometraining time in Hawaii, I received orders to join the 7thInfantry Division, which was fighting the Japanese on thePhilippine Island of Leyte. Upon arrival, I was assigned asthe platoon leader in Company C, 17th Infantry Regiment.

I was soon made aware of what was being planned, theinvasion of the island of Okinawa. On or about March 14,1945 we boarded the transport ship for Okinawa. Afterseveral days at sea, we awoke early Easter Sunday morning,April 1, 1945 to witness a furious shelling of the beaches,which we were to land on later. Boarding the landing craftmy platoon took control of the beach area near the KadenaAirfield.

It was a beautiful day as far as the weather was concerned.Even though we surprised the enemy, who thought we weregoing to attack from the south end of the island, it didn’ttake them long to reverse their battle lines. The next weekswere “hell on earth.” The dead and wounded began to mounton both sides of the battles lines. It was on an evening inApril when it appeared the Japanese threw everything theyhad on our positions. I thanked the Lord for the “duds” (shellsthat didn’t explode), even though the artillery and mortarfire was furious. I promised the Lord if I came through thisnight I would serve him the rest of my life. Well, He broughtme through for another day.

The following month of fighting the enemy and weatherwas terrible, taking one hill after another, coral cave aftercoral cave, using tanks and flamethrowers. On one such

head-to-head battle with the enemy,I, along with a tank commander werewounded. The results of this missionis recorded in “General Orders” No.161, dated August, 1945, “Award ofBronze Star.”

On May 3 and 4 the Japanese infantry,along with their artillery, made alanding behind our front lines, nearthe Yonabaru coastline. They werespotted on my platoon’s left flank. Iwas asked to direct our artillery fireon their positions. After about twohours of artillery and machine gun

fire, the enemy was beaten back. During this battle I receivedshell shock from a nearby artillery shell explosion and wastaken to our company’s first-aid station for observation. Ireturned to my platoon soon after.

Now, not only was the fighting becoming more furious asthe Japanese were being pushed farther and farther to thesouth end of the Okinawa Island. The weather was terrible -rain and more rain hampered our troops’ ability to move.During this time a lot of efforts were made to clean out themany large coral caves where the enemy were holed-up. OnJune 5, 1945 my platoon was ordered to clean out a largecoral cave. When I led my platoon down into the cave I waswounded, gun shot entering my left side and exiting nearmy spine. I was taken to our regimental first-aid station andlater transported by ship to the Division General Hospital.

The roads were impassable because of all the rain duringthe month of May. After several days in the DivisionHospital, I was transferred to the Navy Hospital on Guam.The Army hospital on Guam was full. After spending twoweeks in the Navy Hospital, I was flown to the Army hospitalin Hawaii. It was during my stay in Hawaii that I receivednotice of my battlefield promotion to lst Lieutenant. Also, Iwas awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart with OakLeaf Cluster.

I received orders to return to the States, first to LettermanGeneral Hospital in San Francisco, California and then to


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Okmulgee, Oklahoma. Shortly after I was sent to CampJoseph T. Robinson, and then to Camp Fannin, Tyler, Texas.How strange it was to be returning to the same stations whichI had served in as an enlisted man. Now I was a FirstLieutenant and with a new “MOS,” supply and evacuationofficer.

My military journey was coming to an end, being ordered toreport to Brooke General Hospital, San Antonio, Texas fora physical prior to being discharged from the service. I wasoffered the opportunity to remain in the service with therank of Master Sergeant, but I declined. I received mydischarge papers on May 12, 1946. Now I was a civilianagain with the feeling I had played a small part in the securityof the American way of life. Most of all I thanked my Lord,whose Holy Spirit walked with me on my journey onAmerica’s Freedom Road.

Leslie S. Ellis2216 Regent Drive

Abilene, Texas 79605

Editor’s Note: Today, Leslie Ellis is a retired bank president,active member of Abilene, Texas’ First Baptist Church andhospital volunteer, along with his wife Lois .

The Pincers Close7th Division and lst Cavalry Meet at Osan-ni

By Don Blackburn, Co. A, 17th Infantry

Able Co., 31st Regt. landed at Inchon about 2000 hours onSept. 17, 1950 (basically unopposed landing). Riding tankstoward Suwon Airfield, we were strafed by an F-80. Didnot take long to clean the dust and mend off our bright redidentification panel.

We captured the airfield on Sept. 24th. Two days later,elements of Task Force Lynch (7th Cav. Regt., lst Cav. Div.)in a headlong dash from the Pusan Perimeter, met elementsof the 3lst Regt. at a dusty South Korean village of Osan-ni.Thus, General MacArthur’s plan to cut the North Koreansupply line to enemy units attacking U.S. units along thePusan Perimeter was a rousing success. Two days later, Sept.28th, Able Co., 3lst Regt. raced across a bridge outside ofOsan-ni, tumbled into a rice paddy, and began an assault onHill 113.

We had already been alerted to the presence of Russian madeT-34 tanks in the area between a railroad track and the footof Hill 113. Third platoon lead the attack with Sgt. Bob L.Motsinger leading the weapons squad. Mortars from thevicinity of Hill 113 and machine gun fire from a tank hidingbeyond the railroad track began falling on our rice paddy. Idragged my 30 cal. machine along the bottom of a smallsandy stream, heading for the railroad abutment.

We hunkered down behind the railroad abutment, waitingfor our tanks to move up. We enjoyed a front row seat as ourtanks scrimmaged with six T-34’s, that had beencamouflaged in vegetation between the RR tracks and Hill113. Following destruction of the T-34’s, a successful attackcontinued on Hill 113.

Treasurer & Roster Manager’sReport

Summer 2006By Doug Halbert

With the able assistance of our webmaster, James Bryant,we have made great strides into the future. From our websitemembers can now optionally use a credit card to pay theirdues and purchase items from the Quartermaster store. Newmembers can also complete and submit their applicationsfor membership online.

As your Treasurer, I will be providing quarterly financialreports which will be posted on the website as soon afterthe end of the quarter as possible.

For those of you who have an interest in this informationbut are not comfortable with computers, just drop me a notewith your questions and I will provide you with the requestedinformation by return mail.

Financial SummaryAs of the 31st of March our asset balance is $40,325.47. Itshould be noted that $4,968.43 has already been paid onaccount for the Summer 2006 Hourglass. Complete detailsas to where the money came from and where it went duringthe first quarter of 2006 can be found on Page 14.


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The Quartermaster’s Store

CapsThe official “bill cap” for theAssociation. They come in red,white or black with the“Hourglass” logo on the front andone size fits all. Please specify thecolor you want.$11.00 each

www.7th-inf-div-assn.com/store.asp

Souvenir Brass Coin 7 th Inf. Div. (Light), 1980’s & 90’s, 1½" diameter.Illustration below shows the obverse and the reverse.$3.00 each

Auto Decals4½" diameter$3.00 each, 2 for $5.002¾” diameter$3.00 each, 2 for $5.00

7th IDA Tie Bar$9.00 each

Dog Tag Key RingBrass Dog Tag Key Ring$8.00 each

Small Bolo TieSpecify Silver or Gold end caps.$12.00 each.

Lapel Pin$3.50 each

7th IDA Key Ring$8.00 each

Crests$7.00 each

17th InfantryRegiment

32nd InfantryRegiment

31st InfantryRegiment


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The cost of packing and shipping is included in theprice. Be sure to state any color choices and sizes inyour order. Make your check for the total cost of allitems payable to:

“7th Infantry Division Association”and mail your order to:

7th Infantry Division AssociationRobert Hoxsie, Quartermaster

30 Mapleview DriveCranston, RI 02920-3110

Phone (401) 946-9967

Tee ShirtsWith Logo (S, M, L, XL orXXL)$12.00

Order of the Bayonet Pin$9.00 each

Dress Hourglass PatchBlack & Red$4.00 each, 2 for $7.00

Bumper Sticker$3.00 each

Lapel PinsThe current 7th Inf.Div. lapel pins. Oneis worn on each sideon the lapel.$3.50 each

Military Black BeltBlack belt with brassmilitary 7th Inf. Div.belt buckle.$14.00 each

Hat Pins$3.50 each

The Quartermaster’s Store (cont.)

7th IDA Cloth Patch $3.00 each

Collectors NoteOur Quartermaster maintains a supply of items youmight wish to add to your collection of memorabilia.A list of these items can be obtained by writing tothe Quartermaster directly at the above address.

All profits from the Quartermaster’s Store go into the AssociationTreasury and are used for the betterment of the Association.


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Seekers Page

The picture shown here isof a Mr. Richard O’Harawho joined the Army in1940 or 41. His son hasrequested our help inidentifying the crest on hisfather’s uniform. I havelooked in several web sitesand a book on crests, butto no avail. If yourecognize the crest, pleasesend me a note or a emailidentifying the unit. Ibelieve that the pictureshown is from BasicTraining. There is an “R” under the cross rifles, no unit patch,and a plain uniform. I am sure the son will appreciate anyinformation we can provide.

The following is a note I received from Tom O’Haraexplaining some of the details that he could remember, abouthis father. He entered service from California - Long Beachspecifically. Born in Detroit, Michigan in 1914 and movedto Long Beach, CA when he was 8 years old.

“I wish I would have sat down and had a long talk before hepassed away in the mid 80’s and got the details straight. Iam not sure if he went to the Aleutians with the 7th ID underGen. Buckner in WW2 or got out at the end of the draftlength of duty at that time before Pearl Harbor or due to aninjury to his back. Never saw his service record and whenmy sister tried to get it, they told her that many of the recordsof that time period were lost.

“I do remember my dad saying that he and some buddieswent down and volunteered for the first draft, which I think,was in 1940. Since he went to military school for a whilewhen he was a kid, and the army all of a sudden had a lot ofmen to train and few non-com’s, he made sergeant quickly.

He went AWOL in April of 1941 to marry my mother (andstart me) after which he was busted back to private and hadto peel potatoes for a few months.”

John H Stengel (Casey)Executive Secretary

eMail:<[email protected]><<<<<<<<<<O>>>>>>>>>>

Good evening, Mr. RichardsonI am an amateur historian in Kitsap County, Washington. Iam in the process of compiling a database of Kitsap County(and eventually all of Washington) residents who lost theirlives in times of war.

I am hoping you can provide me some information onSergeant Halbert E. Gorman (393 80 111). I know he waskilled on Attu, and that is all I know. I believe he was withthe 7th Infantry Division, possibly the 4th Infantry Regiment.These are just educated guesses on my behalf. I wouldappreciate any help you could give me.

Thank you for your time.Sincerely,

Bill Asher6382 NW Aileron CourtSilverdale, WA 98383Tel: (360) 337-2521

eMail: <[email protected]>

“The Hourglass” StaffPresident: F.E. (Gene) PeeplesExecutive Secretary: John H. (Casey) StengelTreasurer: Doug HalbertQuartermaster: Robert C. HoxsiePublisher: Frank S. WadgeEditor: Charles R. (Charlie) RichardsonAssociate Editors: Joe Bryant, Joe B. Swan and

Ken Sleight.Special Assistance: Joel Nail

Contributions are welcome from any 7th Inf. Div. Assn.member. Materials may be sent by eMail (preferred) to<[email protected]>. Copy may also be sentto Editor, 1465 Clinton St., Abilene, TX 79603.

Copy Deadlines: Winter Issue - August. 31,Summer Issue - March 31.

Editor's Note: To the best of my knowledge, the 4th InfantryRegiment was never attached to the 7th Infantry Division.

<<<<<<<<<<O>>>>>>>>>>


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Treasurer’s First-Quarter Report


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Atlanta Reunion Photo RoundupPhotos courtesy of Richard E. Zieisdorf and John (Casey) Stengel.

Edward Creger

Victor Goehring

President Gene Peeples

Wayne Stromberg

Stanley Lott

Peter Costa

Maj. Gen. Mixon visits with Association members.

Maj. Gen. Mixon with 7th Division President GenePeeples and his wife, Elaine.

Time of memories.


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Visitation time withPresident and wife.

Editor CharlieRichardson andnew friends.

On bus ride to FortBenning.

Outside lunch site atFort Benning.

Lunch at FortBenning.

Annualmeeting at

Reunion.

Reunion Photo Roundup, cont.


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Businesssession.

Attendees atbusinesssession.

Visitationsession.

More time forgetting

acquainted atdinner session.

Saturdayeveningbanquet

attenders.

Ready formeal to be

served.

Dinnersetting.

Moredining andfellowship.


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Visiting andmemoriesdiscussed.

Maj. Gen.Mixonvisits with MikeMoss.

Maj. Gen.Mixon’s son andfriend at dinner.

Newly elected member of Boardof Governors,Richard E.Hazelmyer.

Gene Peepleschatting withRobert Hall.

Editors Meeting:

CharlieRichardson &Dennis Camp.

7th IDA Members doing their thing!


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God and the SpiderFrom: Robert Ronish <[email protected]>Date: Sun, 24 Jul 2005 19:29:32 -0700 (PDT)Subject: GOD and the SpiderTo: Earl Hammond <[email protected]>

During World War II, a US marine was separated from hisunit on a Pacific island. The fighting had been intense, andin the smoke and the crossfire he had lost touch with hiscomrades. Alone in the jungle, he could hear enemy soldierscoming in his direction. Scrambling for cover, he found hisway up a high ridge to several small caves in the rock.Quickly he crawled inside one of the caves.

Although safe for the moment, he realized that once theenemy soldiers looking for him swept up the ridge, theywould quickly search all the caves and he would be killed.As he waited, he prayed, “Lord, if it be Your will, pleaseprotect me. Whatever Your will though, I love You and trustYou. Amen.” After praying, he lay quietly listening to theenemy begin to draw close. He thought, “Well, I guess theLord isn’t going to help me out of this one.”

Then he saw a spider begin to build a web over the front ofhis cave. As he watched, listening to the enemy searchingfor him all the while, the spider layered strand after strandof web across the opening of the cave. “Hah,” he thought,“What I need is a brick wall and what the Lord has sent meis a spider web. God does have a sense of humor!”

As the enemy drew closer he watched from the darkness ofhis hideout and could see them searching one cave afteranother. As they came to his, he got ready to make his laststand. To his amazement, however, after glancing in thedirection of his cave, they moved on. Suddenly, he realizedthat with the spider web over the entrance, his cave lookedas if no one had entered for quite a while.

“Lord, forgive me,” prayed the young man. “I had forgottenthat in You, a spider’s web is stronger than a brick wall.”

We all face times of great trouble. When we do, it is so easyto forget what God can work in our lives; sometimes in themost surprising ways. And remember, with God, a merespider’s web becomes a brick wall of protection.

Residential area in Unchon-ni, Korea.

lst Sgt. McKinney, Co. lst Sgt. of Hq. Co., 2nd BattleGroup, 3rd Inf. (The Old Guard), approximately March1961, taken just outside of Camp Kaiser.

Unchon-ni, Korea, late winter, 1961.

Photos contributed by Col. (Ret.) Robert Ronish


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Membership Stats7th IDA Dues Status as of 3/31/06

Paid to2007 9282009 73 Associate 612011 15 Courtesy 32013 1 Honorary 32015 7 Special 82017 1

Percentage of members in good standing .......... 71%Number of Delinquent Members ........................ 449New Members added 9/17/05 - 3/31/06 ............... 42Members renewing 9/17/05 - 3/31/06 ................ 267Total Membership .......................................... 1,535

Poems from a Military View

The Final InspectionAuthor Unknown

The soldier stood and faced God,Which must always come to pass.He hoped his shoes were shining,Just as brightly as his brass.

“Step forward now, you soldier,How shall I deal with you?Have you always turned the other cheek?To My Church have you been true?”

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,“No, Lord, I guess I ain’t.Because those of us who carry guns,Can’t always be a Saint.

I’ve had to work most Sundays,And at times my talk was tough.And sometimes I’ve been violent,Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,That wasn’t mine to keep...Though I worked a lot of overtime,When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,Though at times I shook with fear.And sometimes, God, forgive me,I’ve wept unmanly tears.

I know I don’t deserve a place,Among the people here.They never wanted me around,Except to calm their fears.

If you’ve a place for me here, Lord,It needn’t be so grand.I never expected or had too much,But if you don’t, I’ll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,Where the saints had often trod.As the soldier waited quietly,For the judgment of his God.

“Step forward now, you soldier,You’ve borne your burdens well.Walk peacefully on Heaven’s streets,You’ve done your time in Hell.”

It’s the Soldier, not thereporter who has given us thefreedom of the press. It’s theSoldier, not the poet, who hasgiven us the freedom ofspeech. It’s the Soldier, not thepoliticians that ensures ourright to Life, Liberty and thePursuit of Happiness. It’s theSoldier who salutes the flag,who serves beneath the flag,and whose coffin is draped bythe flag.

If you care to offer thesmallest token of recognitionand appreciation for theMilitary, please pass this onand pray for our men andwomen who have served andare currently serving ourcountry and pray for thosewho have given the ultimatesacrifice for freedom.

7th IDA Reference LibraryEditor’s note from Charles Richardson

Our Executive Secretary writes that he has discovered in hisjob description that he is responsible for maintaining thearchives of the Association. He tells me that he has begun toaccumulate any reference material and memorabilia he canfind. He has also volunteered to catalog and store 7thDivision information.

If any of you have historical documents or other memorabiliarelating to the Division you’d like to share, please drop Johna note describing what you have. If you do not wish to partwith whatever it may be, he can at least catalog theirexistence and where they can be located. John’s address is:

712 Griggs St., Grand Rapids, MI 49503-8051eMail <[email protected]>


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7th Division Soldier RemembersMaj. Gen. N.A. Costello

By Jim HayesHqs. Company, 32nd Inf., 7th Div. Camp Hovey, Korea(1958-59)

I was in Hqs. Co. 32nd Inf. at CampHovey and hardly a week goes bythat I don’t think about the 32nd. andsome of the guys I served with;Pryor, West, Perrish, Flickenger,Sabatini, Lamb to name just a few,and I remember Gen. Costello verywell.

He had taken command of the Div. and was introducinghimself to the Regiment. He showed up one morning forreveille and gave a brief speech. The most amazing part ofwhich was when he said, “I don’t care much for Officers”,and that if any of us had a problem with them that his phonenumber was “Bayonet 1.” With that, he jumped down fromthe platform and told a 2nd Lt. to follow him, as he beganto inspect the company. He was half way across the formationwhen he saw that the Lt. hadn’t moved. “I said follow melieutenant,” he repeated, at which point the Lt. seemed tojump about a foot and hit the ground running to catch up. Itwas pretty amusing and it was hard not to break out laughing. The closest I thought I’d ever get to a General would beseeing one on a Grandstand as we passed in review. Thatmorning Gen. Costello inspected every Platoon and everyman in them face to face. Yeah, I was impressed! Fromthat time on, it was not unusual for him to show up anytime,anywhere. When the Red Alert siren went off he might beseen on the side of the road watching us as we moved outto positions on the DMZ. If you saw his jeep approachinghe was driving it. It was rumored he even flew his ownchopper. I never saw that, but I believe it.

My most vivid memory of him was one night when we werein position at a place called “Nightmare Range” It was threeor four a.m. and it was twenty or thirty below zero. It wasmy watch on a 50cal. A form approached out of the darkand all I saw was two shiney stars on his pile cap as hejumped into the trench and settled down next to the gun,looked at me and said “How you doing soldier?” To say I

was speechless would be an understatement. A general, inthe middle of a freezing night, in the middle of nowhere,checking out his troops! Wow!

I was sitting on the edge of the trench and had pulled mymummy bag around my lower torso covering all but myarms and face and was wearing a pair of Shooters Mittsmy brother had sent me for Christmas. I can’t remember allthat he said, mostly things like, where was I from? and howlong I’d been in Korea? How I felt about it?, stuff like that.I kept thinking he was going to say something about mynon-issue mitts and he did.

He asked if he could try them on(!!), which he did and heliked them, saying he was going to get a pair for himself.With that, he was up and out of the trench saying “Keep upthe good work, Soldier.” and disappeared back into the night.

As I said, Gen Costello was a frequent visitor to the 32ndand it was felt that we were his favorite unit and I think webelieved that. Most likely he dropped in on the 17th and the31st Regts. and left them with the same impression. Prettysmart general, if you ask me.

To my mind he was truly a great General, in command of agreat Division, made up of outstanding Regts. I’m sure weall would have gone anywhere, anytime and done anythinghe asked of us. I, for one, have never forgotten him, theDivision, or the 32nd Inf. Regiment. It was an honor and aprivilege to serve.

Editor’s Note: Jim Hayes responded to a photo which ranin the Seekers Page of the Fall 2005 issue of The Hourglass.Thanks Jim.

Spread The Word!Thirty new members have been recruited since our lastissue. Is your name on the list below of members whosuccessfully recruited a new member? If not, we ask thatyou try to get your name on the Winter Issue list.

Ten new members were recruited from our website, andthe remaining 20 were recruited by:Doug Halbert 7John Stengel 3Gene Peeples 3LeRoy Quernmoen 2

Harvey G. Liles 1Curtis E. Owenson 1Charles R. Richardson 1Unknown 2


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Aleutian Campaign Certificate

Here is a copy of a letter andcertificate that I received lastMay. I wonder if anyone elsefrom the 7th Division’s 1943Aleutian campaign got this.After such a long time it was acomplete surprise to me.

I was in Company E, 17thInfantry, for nearly five years.Overseas, I served mainly asSupply Sergeant and eventuallyas First Sergeant participatingin all Pacific campaigns, fromAttu to Okinawa, until May 5,1945 when I was wounded onOkinawa.

I thought you might beinterested in thisacknowledgement of our partin the Aleutian campaign. I’msure others in the 7th must havereceived this certificate, but thefew I’ve contacted haven’t.

I hope Gene Peeples’ health improvesand I send my best wishes for his fullrecovery.

Bob Prueher3808 N. Wright Rd. Apt. 120

Janesville, WI 53546


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Hi Charles,Sorry I missed the recent reunion.Maybe I’ll make it the next onein Colorado, “The good Lordwilling.” While going down “memorylane” I ran into these photos that Iam sending you for considerationfor publication sometime in theThe Hourglass. I am also sending three Hourglass

Glen Burdick’s Korea ‘45

newspapers that should be kept in the archives by either theassociation or even the present 7th Infantry Division Museumif they don’t already have them. Please note that one of thepapers is Volume 1, issue 1, dated January 13, 1946. I enjoy the articles written by various members, especially“The war is over, the war is over” by John Waldie appearingin the Fall 2005 issue. I was there tooon the same time frame and places,just different ships, the USS ChiltonAPA 38, etc.. Thanks for the

CA, HIckham AFB, HI, and the far east, including KimpoAFB, Seoul, Korea. I retired from that in January 1985. IRV’d for four years and settled in Tulare, CA. Enjoyingvisiting children in Sonoma County and Riverside County.

AlohaGlen Burdick

recollections John, we survived.

Yes, those rides in the Pullman carswere nice and a new experience tous youngsters fresh out of highschool. What an experience it was.

I liked the military so much thatafter college I got a civil service jobat Fairfield-Suisun AFB, California(now Travis AFB) and became arecords management officer forStrategic Air Command out ofOffutt, Omaha, Neb., March AFB,

Glen Burdick can be reached at:1939 W. Martinho Ave.Tulare, CA 93274-0954Tel: (559)686-4335


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50th Anniversary of the Korean Truce RememberedBy Norm Spring1416 Lake Ave.Grand Haven, MI 49417-1761 Today I am a 70 year-old, retired teacher from the GrandHaven, Minnesota school system who enjoys hunting,fishing and family. But on July 27, 1953 I was huddled inthe back side of a hill in Korea waiting an agonizing 12hours for the truce to go into effect so the shelling wouldstop. I’d been on the front line in Korea since Jan. 1, 1953. OnJuly 27, we heard from the company commander that a trucehad been signed that morning at 10, I was in the 3lst InfantryRegiment of the 7th Division, called the Bayonet Division,and we were repairing trenches in an area adjacent to theOld Baldy and Pork Chop Hill in the Iron Triangle area. Our commander came and warned us that the next 12 hourswould probably be dangerous since the North Koreans mightthrow their remaining ammunition at us before the trucewent into effect. He told us this happened in the last hoursof World War II. Our division moved back to a blocking positionapproximately a quarter of a mile from the front line trenches.We sat on the back side of a steep hill. As predicted, shellingwent on all day. Someone sitting right next to me got shrapnelin his leg from a cannon shell. No one in our company firedback. We just sat waiting.

Finally at 10 that night the firing stopped as if someone hadturned off a water tap. Then we saw lights coming alongboth sides of the front line - truck lights, flashlights, candlesand lanterns. It was a strange experience because we hadworked in the dark for so many months. Then, some of us were surprised when we looked at theNorth Koreans; we hadn’t known the size of their army untilwe saw all those lights come on. It was big. North Koreanloudspeakers invited our soldiers to cross the line and joinin party, and a few of our men did go over, but were courtmartialed afterward for fraternizing with the enemy. I thought we’d be sent home right away so I gave away myair mattress. It was an unlucky choice as it was not until theend of August that I was able to leave. The loss of men justthree days prior to the 27th had been so heavy there was ashortage of man power. However, I was happy to celebrate my 2lst birthday in theUnited States. Now, 50 years later, a statement I made to myhometown paper, The Ann Arbor News, after my return tothe States seems in a way, prophetic. A reporter had askedme why there wasn’t more rejoicing after the truce wassigned. I told him that the settlement had been expected fora long time and besides, we feared that the fighting in Koreawas not over yet. For many it didn’t seem as if war had ended.

Books of the 7th IDFor your information I have acquired the following booksas reference material, and figured that we should have suchmaterial for the use of all our members. I will have them atthe reunion.

Seventh Infantry Division HistoryCo-produced by Mark A. Thompson, 1991WWI, WWII, Korea, & Panamanian Invasion 1917-1992,serving America for 75 years. Shows pictures of Korea and7th IDA members in 1991.128 text and pictures pages. Hard cover

History of the 7th Infantry Division in World War IIBy Edmund G. Love.496 text pages. Hard cover.

U.S. Army Heraldic CrestsBy Barry J. Stein, 1993129 pages of Unit Crest and a short history of the unit.461 pages of information. Hard cover.

Fort Ord, Images of AmericaBy Harold E. Raugh Jr., 2004127 pages of Pictures and captions. Soft cover.

BayonetBy E.D. CarrollA history of the 7th Infantry Division, Korea 1950-1951 50 pages (Used)

John H Stengel7th IDA Executive Secretary and Historian


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The Chaplain’s Corner

“Character and the Call to Duty”We have often heard folks say that character is "what we dowhen no one is looking." I want to say that our words, ourdeeds, our priorities, our affections, and our attitudes allspeak with one voice to demonstrate our character. Charactermust remain whole and intact. With the Army values in fullview, we can say that integrity is the touchstone of a Soldier'smoral fiber - his or her character. Integrity stands forsoundness of moral principle, honesty, and, yes, uprightcharacter.

The word "integrity" is a martial word with roots in theRoman legions. During the time of the 12 Caesars, theRoman army conducted morning inspections. TheCenturions inspected their own cohorts (or, "companies").As the Centurion stood before each Roman soldier, thesoldier would strike with his right fist his own armoredbreastplate that covered his heart. The armor had to bestrongest there to protect the heart from sword thrusts andarrow strikes. As the Roman soldier struck his breastplate,he would shout "integritos!" which in Latin meant"wholeness", "completeness", and "entirety." The inspectingCenturion would listen closely for this verbal affirmationand also for the ring of well-kept armor. Satisfied that thearmor was sound and that his soldier was well-protected, hewould move on to the next man.

A Soldier's character must remain whole and intact. It mustalways give off the true ring of being complete and in tact;the true ring that reflects continual care and attention. Justas it was true during the days of the Roman Empire, so it istrue today: We must walk around in our integrity - ourcharacter - daily, for when we set it aside, we leave our heartsand souls open and exposed to attack. The Book of Proverbssays, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but theunfaithful are destroyed because of the duplicity of theirminds."

On those occasions when we do not do as we ought, thosebreaches of character follow us through life, living in ourmemories like paintings hung on the hallways of our minds.But, before God, we need not remain in prison to our past.Instead, we can frame a vision for a future, and we can goforward.

Character and the ethical behavior that accompanies it cannotbe built in a short time. Some say that character is built inthe tough times, but I want to say that character is builteveryday in the process of life and that it is put on display inthe tough times. Being a person of character is no easy task.It requires tough decisions, many of which put us at oddswith the more commonly accepted mores of our time.

Cowardliness in character, marked by a lack of integrity, orhonor, will soon manifest itself as cowardliness in otherforms; specifically, in our actions. People who have thecourage to face life's challenges to their character have areservoir of strength from which to draw in the hardest placeof all, even in combat.

It was the strength of his character that set Corporal WilliamF. Lyell, Company F, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th InfantryDivision, apart on 31 August 1951. When his platoon leaderwas killed, Cpl. Lyell assumed command and led his unit inan assault on strongly fortified enemy positions located oncommanding terrain. Under vicious, raking fire which haltedthe platoon's forward movement, Cpl. Lyell seized a 57mm.recoilless rifle and unhesitatingly moved ahead to a suitablefiring position from which he delivered deadly accurate firecompletely destroying an enemy bunker and killed itsoccupants. He then returned to his platoon and was resumingthe assault when the unit was again subjected to intensehostile fire from two other bunkers. Disregarding hispersonal safety, he charged forward hurling grenades intothe enemy emplacements, and although painfully woundedin this action, he pressed on destroying both enemy bunkersand killing the enemy within. He then led his platoon to thenorth slope of the hill where, completely exposed to enemyfire, he continued to move among his men, directing theirfire and providing encouragement until he was mortallywounded by enemy mortar fragments. For his valor and self-sacrifice, CPL Lyell was posthumously awarded theCongressional Medal of Honor.

These are challenging days for our country. No one knowsthat better than those American men and women who wearthe uniforms of our Armed Forces. They continue to spilltheir own blood for one another and for their countrymen,drinking to the bitter dregs the cup of suffering and sacrifice.America needs men and women of character who know onlyof courage and nothing of cowardice. America and herenemies need to hear from our Warriors the true ring ofbreastplates of character; breastplates that are whole,complete, and ready.

May God bless you, Veterans, and may God bless the UnitedStates of America. Bayonets!

Chaplain (LTC) Steven L. BerryDivision Chaplain

7th Infantry DivisionFort Carson, Colorado 80913

COM (719) 526-3419/DSN 691-3419


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Organization Name Address City, State, ZIP Phone Co/Batt127th Signal BattalionLittle, Kevin J. 11452 Dark Star Way Parker, CO 80138 (303) 805-9878

13th Engineer Battalion [C]Fowler, Lee E. 2201 Sunrise Valley Dr. Reston, VA 20192 (703) 689-9746

HHCLarkin, Edward F 8011 Cedar Glen Lane Louisville, KY 40291 (502) 231-3552 AMcIver, Jes D. 12704 Sunlight Dr. Dallas, TX 75230 (972) 239-2373Sears, Frank C. 124 Hibiscus Dr. Ashland City, TN 37015 (615) 792-4097 A

17th Infantry RegimentChoy, William 1605 Piihana Rd. Wailuku, HI 96793 (808) 244-0765 LDrummonds, Eddie R. 34449 Whispering Oak Blvd. Dade City, FL 33523 (352) 583-3163 BEllis, Leslie S. 2216 Regent Dr. Abilene, TX 79605 (325) 692-1150 CMinger, Richard L 2150 Santa Clara Ave. #A Alameda, CA 94501 (510) 769-1397 FPatterson, Robert H 480 Richmond Rd. East Meadow, NY 11554 (516) 214-4905 CTomaino, Bernard 133 Riverview Pkway S. Rome, NY 13440 (315) 337-4277 F

2/10 Armored CavalryGoodwin, Mark G. 4454 Bent Grass Dr. Fayetteville, NC 28312 (910) 482-4342

3161st Signal Service Co.Martino, Lawrence A. 585 Elm Chruch Rd. #9 Hinesville, GA 31313

31st Field Artillery BattalionPatterson, William A. 6784 Beach Nest Dr. Las Vegas, NV 89130 (702) 395-2023 B

31st Infantry RegimentSoult, Jr., Launcelot E. 765 Treasure Lake Du Bois, PA 15801 (814) 371-6574 B

32nd Infantry RegimentSchoenberger, Arthur M 65 Cedar Dr. Roslyn, NY 11576 (516) 484-0087 EWilliams, Maynard D. 23166 W M 60 Homer, MI 49245 (517) 568-3956 B

476th ArtilleryBolt, James W. 115 Kingston Dr. Laurens, SC 29360 (864) 682-3339 B

48th Field Artillery BattalionSpencer, Robert L. 810 S. Factory St. Fairmont, IN 46928 (765) 948-4716 CWhittington, Marvin J. 810 N. Harrison St. Brazil, IN 47834 (812) 448-3983 C

New Member List


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New Members List (cont.)

Organization Name Address City, State, ZIP Phone Co/Batt

49th Field Artillery BattalionRoe, William D 35018 Glover Wayne, MI 48184 (734) 722-8908 C

707th Ordnance Maint. Co.Lakeberg, Delorn A 3534 326th Ln NE Cambridge, MN 55008 (763) 689-2207

7th Military Police Co.Freymiller, Mark M. 1565 Wilson St. Fennimore, WI 53809 (608) 822-6142Vermillion, Stephen D. 19610 Weaver’s Circle Cornelius, NC 28031 (704) 987-0717

7th Signal Co.Stein, John H. 313 N. Broadview Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-4348

7th Supply & Transport BattalionHemphill, Patrick T. 713 Pine Lake Ave. La Porte, IN 46530 (219) 362-5010 B

Division HeadquartersCraven, Ronald D. 2256 Hillside Ct. Walnut Creek, CA 94597 (925) 944-6357 AdminSwantek, Robert C. 109 Bull Ave. Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-3638 HHC

Unit Assignment UnknownMolln, Roland D. 724 East Jefferson Winterset, LA 50273 (515) 462-2579 HQSnider, Kim B. 1555 Hallet Ct. NW Salem, OR 97304 (503) 581-1357 B

Total New Members - 30

The 7th IDA Booster Club

Our Booster fund has grown by $545.00 since the last Hourglass, with 26 people making contributions. Here is the list ofthose generous people. Thanks for your support - the membership appreciates your generosity.

If you make a donation to the 7IDABooster’s Club you’ll be helpingdefray the costs of producing anddistributing our Hourglass magazinetwice a year to all our membersworldwide. Please get in touch withPresident Gene Peeples and he’llwelcome you like the hero you are!

Harold H. BelcherMildred CoffeyCharles F. CookKenneth A. DickensLou A. DrastalErnest W. EldredgeThomas P. FlavinBruce M. FrazerMerilyn D. GeorgevichVictor GoehringDavid E. GrayHarold J. HaubergDuane D. Heldenbrand

Richard S. KidderClara McCraryJes D. McIverJoseph R. MorrisFrank R. PascoeBilly D. QuintonRodney D. RamseyWilliam B. SchaubKenneth G. SleightJohn E. TrappRobert E. TregoAl WartnerHouston H. Woolbright


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Occupying Hokkaido Before The WarPhotos by Joe Swan

Soon to be at war in Korea,these soldiers fromHeadquarters, 31st Battery,31st Field Artillery Battalion,7th Infantry Division, are caughton camera at Camp Chitose,Hokkaido, Japan on occupationduty in the spring of 1950. Warbroke out June 25th.

Corporal Rogers,our room chief,relaxes with hisnewspaper.

Pfc. JamesDeitch fromPonchatoula,Louisiana.

Pfc. JosephyP. Kreiter, Jr.fromWashingtonState.

Pfc. Harvey Cole from Idaho. Left to right are “Zeke”, Mattox,Meduna, Edward Ziak and CorneliusArvin.


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Bayonet Division Prisoners Freed by RedsHappy Returnees Welcome Steak, Medical Attention

The following story, reprinted from Vol. 1, No. 30 ofBayonet, the 7th ID newspaper in Korea, predecessor toThe Hourglass originally appeared 3 May 1953 on Page1. The story was filed from “Freedom Village” nearMunsan-ni during “Operation Little Switch,” the initialexchange of prisoners by UN and Communist forces, 20-27 April 1953.

By 1st Lt. Joe BryantThe return of six Colombian, one KATUSA and tenAmerican 7th Division soldiers during the last five days ofOperation Little Switch raised to 20 the total of repatriatedBayonet prisoners of war. Included in the group was oneofficer, a forward observer taken captive last month onOld Baldy.

Second Lt. Albert DelaGarza Jr. , San Antonio, Tex., wasthe second of four American officers to be released by theCommunists. A member of “B” Battery, 57th FieldArtillery Battalion, DelaGarza was a forward observerattached to the Colombian Battalion when he was capturedon Old Baldy on March 23.

His left arm in a splint, DelaGarza’s first question of a 7thDivision officer at Freedom Village concerned the outcomeof the battle and the men who were on the hill with him. “Iwonder if you know anything about a Cpl. Carl Sheldonof ‘B’ Battery, 57th Field?”, he inquired. “Sheldon waswith me just before I was captured. I don’t know if he waswounded, killed, captured or what.”

Last Meeting“We had been getting shelled pretty heavily for a couple ofdays. The evening of March 23, I left the company CP atopBaldy about 1945 hours to go to an observation post,” thelieutenant explained. “Sheldon asked me if I was goingthere alone and I said,’I guess so’. Sheldon then told meto start on and he would get a couple of carbines and catchup with me. He ducked into his bunker and I started on upthe trench. That was the last time I saw him.”

“About 2000 hours,” DelaGarza continued, “the incomingmortars got pretty thick and I ducked into a a bunker untilit slackened a bit. Fifteen minutes later the Chinese werein our trenches. It surely happened fast.” The short, dark-haired officer scuffed the ground with the black tennis shoes

of his prison garb and sat silently for a moment. “Sheldonhad gotten a Bronze Star with ‘V’ just the day before,” hewent on. “He really deserved it - he really put out! If youcan find out anything about him, would you drop me aline?”

Tells His StoryA few minutes later DelaGarza told a battery of newspapercorrespondents and television and newsreel cameramenof his capture and imprisonment. Before he was captured,DelaGarza was wounded in the left hand and right ankleby shell fragments and in the right hip by a bullet. Whenhe was taken prisoner the Chinese led him to the top ofOld Baldy.

“I didn’t know until then that they had taken it,” DelaGarzaexplained. “They put me in a bunker and bandaged myarm. For the first four and a half days I didn’t get anymedical treatment except that first bandage.” The prisoncamp in which DelaGarza was placed was “a mining camp”near the Yalu. “One of the Colombians who came backyesterday,” he remarked, “was also in that camp. Twenty-one other Colombians, not wounded, are still there. Whenwe started back here (Freedom Village), I left with theColombian who came through yesterday. But yesterdaymorning at Kaesong there were 27 of us and the Chinesewould only bring back 25. I was one of the two who had towait until today.”

When told of the antics of Colombian repatriate Cpl. OscarDuran Noval, who brought chuckles to the processingpersonnel and newsmen upon his return the day before,DelaGarza grinned. “Noval is the biggest card,” thelieutenant laughed. “He was either moaning about his armor singing, one or the other, all the time. He kept theChinese in stitches.”

Two of the other returnees, a PFC from Alabama and aKATUSA private from Pusan, had been in Communistprison camps in North Korea for almost 19 months. Bothwere captured on December 9, 1950, while serving withthe 32nd Infantry Regiment.

Buc Squad LeaderPFC Tully Cox, Altoona, Ala., was taken prisoner by the

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Communists at the Chosin Reservoir while serving as asquad leader of the 3rd squad, 3rd Platoon of theBuccaneers’Company “A” . Cox was carried from anambulance on a litter and wasn’t interviewed by the press.At the 45th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital at FreedomVillage, Lt. Col Charles Hollingsworth, commandingofficer of the hospital asked the young Alabaman if he washungry. “Not at the present time, sir, ” Cox replied ratheruninterestedly. “Well, we have a steak dinner back there foryou.” said Hollingsworth. Cox raised himself to a sittingposition on his litter and grinned. “I could eat a steak dinner,”he said.

KATUSA CapturedAt the 5th ROK MASH, 22-year-old Pvt. Kim Bong Dutold of his capture near the Chongkin Reservoir while aKATUSA in the 32nd Regiment. A farmer before the war,Kim was wounded in the arm and side by the Chinese Reds.He said that his Communist captors left him behind duringa battle because he was in “very bad shape” but that hesurvived with help from farmers. After about a month, Kimsaid, he was captured by North Koreans and taken toChungnam. Kim said he received “poor treatment” from theReds, getting very little medical care and not enough food.In prison camp, said Kim, he was “hungry all the time.”

The eight other U.S. personnel from the 7th Division whowere repatriated during the last four days of the prisonerexchange were: PFC Paul A Klozik, Midland, Mich., 49thField Artillery Battalion ; Cpl. Wendell H. Treffrey,Terryville, Conn., Medical Company, 31st Regiment; Sgt.Herman D. McCurley, Pauls Valley, Okla., Heavy MortarCompany, 32nd Regiment; Sgt. Harry A. Cutting, BellePlain, Ia, Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 31stRegiment. Also, Pvt. Benjamin F. McGhee, Phoenix, Ariz.,“I” Company, 31st Regiment; PFC John S. Ploch, Detroit,Mich., “K” Company, 17th Regiment ; Cpl. Elias B.Villegas, San Antonio, Tex., Company ”L”, 31st Regimentand Cpl. Willie J. Patrick, Hilleman, Ark., Heavy MortarCompany, 32nd Regiment.

Earlier in the exchange, three other Bayonet soldiers werereturned by the Communists. They were: SFC Robert A.Lee, Falco, Ala., Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 31stRegiment; Sgt. Odie Lawley, Medicine Park, Okla., 377thTransportation Truck Company;, and PFC WilbertWarring, Philadelphia, Pa., “L” Company, 32nd Regiment.

Editor’s Chair - Seat of PrivilegeServing as Editor of The Hourglass provides a first-handglimpse into the past of the experiences of personnel of the7th Infantry Division Association. Really, it is a seat ofprivilege. I am happy to report that three other Associationmembers have agreed to join the staff of The Hourglass. Allof them have had experience in communication. The hopeof course is to provide editorial leadership for now and thefuture as the need arises.

The new contributing editors are: Joe Bryant, Joe Swanand Ken Sleight. Thank you gentlemen! The hope is thatadditional volunteers will come forward to join our team.Let us hear from you!

Already, our President, Gene Peeples is a regular contributorwith his column. Valuable assistance comes from DougHalbert , our Treasurer and Roster Manager and ourExecutive Secretary , John (Casey) Stengel, and ourQuartermaster, Bob Hoxsie.

I cannot say enough appreciative words about our PublisherFrank Wadge, who also an Honorary Member of the 7thDivision Association. Much credit must go to him for thefinal product of the newsletter. Thank you big time, Frank!

A personal friend and computer programmer, Joel Nail ofAbilene, is also providing this editor with valuableassistance. Thanks to Joel!

Your letters are of keen interest to fellow members, so pleasekeep them coming! Keep our fellow association members,their families, our country and the military, including 7thDivision personnel, in your prayers and thoughts.

Charlie RichardsonThe Hourglass Editor

“Bayonet Division Prisoners” cont.

QuotePeter J. Chang’s most memorable time with the 7th Div.was “reaching the Yalu River with the l7th Regiment (lstamongst U.S. Armed Forces to make it to the Yalu). Themost important happening? “Being evacuated out of NorthKorea,” he writes. “I have discovered peace amongst fellowcomrades of the 7th I.D. This my extended family.”

Peter J. Chang7201 Birch Place

Hammond, Indiana 46324


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Best Christmas Story

AND NOW, in plenty of time for the holidays, I bring youthe best Christmas story you never heard.

It started last Christmas, when Bennett and Vivian Levinwere overwhelmed by sadness while listening to radioreports of injured American troops. “We have to let themknow we care,” Vivian told Bennett.

So they organized a trip to bring soldiers from Walter ReedArmy Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Hospital to theannual Army-Navy football game in Philly, on Dec. 3. Thecool part is, they created their own train line to do it. Yes,there are people in this country who actually own real trains.Bennett Levin, native Philly guy, self-made millionaire andirascible former L&I commish, is one of them.

He has three luxury rail cars. Think mahogany paneling,plush seating and white-linen dining areas. He also has twolocomotives, which he stores at his Juniata Park train yard.One car, the elegant Pennsylvania, carried John F. Kennedyto the Army-Navy game in 1961 and ’62. Later, it carriedhis brother Bobby’s body to D.C. for burial. “That’s a lot ofhistory for one car.” says Bennett.

He and Vivian wanted to revive a tradition that endured from1936 to 1975, during which trains carried Army-Navyspectators from around the country directly to the stadiumwhere the annual game is played. The Levins could think ofno better passengers to reinstate the ceremonial ride thanthe wounded men and women recovering at Walter Reed inD.C. and Bethesda, in Maryland. “We wanted to give them afirst-class experience.” says Bennett. “Gourmet meals onboard, private transportation from the train to the stadium,perfect seats - real hero treatment.”

Through the Army War College Foundation, of which he isa trustee, Bennett met with Walter Reed’s commandinggeneral, who loved the idea. But Bennett had some groundrules first, all designed to keep the focus on the troops alone:No press on the trip, lest the soldiers’ day of pamperingdevolve into a media circus.

No politicians either, because, says Bennett, “I didn’t want

some idiot making this trip into a campaign photo op.”And no Pentagon suits on-board, otherwise the soldierswould be too busy saluting superiors to relax. The general agreed to the conditions, and Bennett realizedhe had a problem on his hands. “I had to actually make thisthing happen,” he laughs.

Over the next months, he recruited owners of 15 othersumptuous rail cars from around the country (these peopletend to know each other) into lending their vehicles for theday. The name of their temporary train? The Liberty Limited.

Amtrak volunteered to transport the cars to D.C. wherethey’d be coupled together for the round-trip ride to Philly,then back to their owners later. Conrail offered to servicethe Liberty while it was in Philly, and SEPTA drivers wouldbus the disabled soldiers 200 yards from the train to LincolnFinancial Field, for the game.

A benefactor from the War College ponied up 100 seats tothe game on the 50-yard line, and lunch in a hospitality suite.Corporate donors filled goodie bags for attendees for freeand without asking for publicity: stadium blankets fromWoolrich, digital cameras from Wal-Mart, field glasses fromNikon, and down jackets from GEAR.

The booty was not just for the soldiers, but for their guests,too, since each was allowed to bring a friend or familymember. The Marines, though, declined the offer. “Theyvoted not to take guests with them, so they could take moreMarines,” says Levin, choking up at the memory.

Bennett’s an emotional guy, so he was worried about howhe’d react to meeting the 88 troops and guests at D.C.’sUnion Station, where the trip originated. Some GIs weremissing limbs. Others were wheelchair-bound oraccompanied by medical personnel for the day. “They madeit easy to be with them,” he says. “They were all smiles onthe ride to Philly. Not an ounce of self-pity from any of them.They’re so full of life and determination.”

At the stadium, the troops reveled in the game, recallsBennett. Not even Army’s lopsided loss to Navy could deflatethe group’s rollicking mood. Afterward, it was back to the

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train and yet another gourmet meal (“Heroes get hungry.”,said Levin) before returning to Walter Reed and Bethesda.“The day was spectacular,” says Levin. “It was all aboutthese kids. It was awesome to be part of it.”

The most poignant moment for the Levins was when 11Marines hugged them goodbye, then sang them the MarineHymn on the platform at Union Station. “One of the guyswas blind, but he said, ‘I can’t see you, but man, you mustbe f—ing beautiful!’“ says Bennett. “I got a lump so big inmy throat, I couldn’t even answer him.”

“My Christmas came early,” says Levin, who is Jewish andwho loves the Christmas season. “I can’t describe the feelingin the air.”

Maybe it was hope.

As one guest wrote in a thank-you note to Bennett andVivian, “The fond memories generated last Saturday willsustain us all - whatever the future may bring.”

God bless the Levins, and God bless the troops, every one.

Organization Co/Bat. Date of Death Name

Final Taps

We remember those whohave left our ranks

13th Engineer Battalion [C]Evans, Richard C. A, D, Hq & Service 3/16/2006

15th AAA BattalionLamour, Armand H. Hq 6/29/2005

17th Infantry RegimentLaVerdure, “Frenchie” H. B 11/14/1995Mataxis, Theo C. Unknown 3/8/2006Pavelski, Henry S. C 12/8/2005Troutman, Jess F. A 3/26/2005Withington, Leonard A. H 3/1/2005Zanella, Raymond L. Unknown 08/2004

184th Infantry Regiment & 32nd Infantry RegimentCommito, Ado B 11/5/2005

31st Field Artillery BattalionBenson, Kenneth O. C 5/11/2004

31st Infantry RegimentDillon, William D. D 3/11/2005Heath, Robert E. A 4/21/2005

32nd Infantry RegimentBelcher, Harold H. Unknown 4/2/2004Howard, Charles J. K 4/6/2005Nave, Lester W. Medical 7/10/2004Piegols, Norman L. Unknown 1/4/2006

57th Field Artillery and 31st Infantry RegimentMagill, Edward L. B & C 9/7/2005

7th Quartermaster Co.Growe, Leon O. Quartermaster 2005

Total - 18

Continued from previous page.

A scene from a practice extraction in front of the InfantryMuseum at Fort Benning, GA.


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Membership Application Form

Recommended By 7th IDA Member:Name: .Address: . .

Mail the completed form and your check orMoney Order for $20.00, made out to:

“7th Infantry Division Association”and send to:

Doug Halbert, Treasurer518 Hilinai St.

Wailuku, HI 96793-9426

New Members are immediately placed on our mailing listand receive a paid up membership card, lapel pin, autodecal, copy of our current newsletter, and a copy of ourConstitution and By-laws. Subsequent dues will be $20.00,due in June of the biennial reunion year.

Please type or print clearly.

Name: . Sex: o o Last Name First Middle Male

Female

Address: . Street, RR, or PO Box Apartment #

.City State 9 Digit Zip Code Country

Status: Active Duty o Veteran o Widow of Veteran o Child of Veteran o

Spouse’s Name: . (or next of kin)

Phones: ( ) ( ) ( ) , Home Cellular Fax

eMail Address: .

Military: .Assignment Platoon Company Troop Battalion Battery Regiment Brigade

With 7th ID from: .To: Highest Rank: DOB: / / .Please attach another sheet giving details of the following:

Overseas Assignments, Major Battles, Awards & Decorations and Service Medals:

_ Applicant’s Signature Application Date

7th Infantry Division Association518 Hilinai StreetWailuku, HI 96793-9426www.7th-inf-div-assn.com

Change Service Requested

NON PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDSan Diego, CAPermit No. 1


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Dues Status

The current dues cycle commenced on 7/1/05. If yourlabel indicates "Delinquent," this will be your lastHourglass if your dues are not paid before the winteredition.

l Delinquent ... Your membership has lapsed.

l 2007+ ........... You are paid in advance. Thank you.

l Associate ..... You are exempt from dues.

l Honorary..... You are exempt from dues.

l Special ......... You are exempt from dues.

Send your $20.00 dues to:7th IDA518 Hilinai StreetWailuku, HI 96793-9426

Your continuingsupport of theAssociation isappreciated.

A scene from a practice extraction at Fort Benning,GA near the Infantry Museum.

s the hourglass

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