“Land Ho ! On the port side” Letter VI
Oro Bay, New Guinea, 1943
Just as Smitty expected, their destination was quickly coming up over the horizon. The fleeting glimpse of solid land, Milne Bay, New Guinea was only a short stopover for water (such a disappointment) and they continued their cruise north. The 11th Airborne Division came upon the humming waterfront of ships manipulating to unload troops, supplies and equipment in Oro Bay. They witnessed a paradoxal view of organized chaos.
Down the rope ladders they went to the beach taxis, DUKWs (2 ton amphibious vehicles commonly called “ducks”) and onward to the awaiting shoreline. At latitude 8*52’60S and longitude 148*30’0E, this would become the first step for many a G.I. on foreign soil. Once they actually hit the beach, the heat seemed to slam into the troopers and their uniforms became soaked within minutes, but they proceeded on to the Buna-Dobodura area to make their new base camp.
Dobodura, New Guinea
As written in the Australian newspaper, The Canberra Times, 1944: “New Guinea was a country out of the Stone Age that was whizzed through the centuries. A country that had previously known only natives, grass huts and raw nature has been blitzed from all angles with every piece of equipment known to modern engineering and warfare … the skies are as busy as a beehive with bombers and fighters and transports.”
The 11th had entered the jungles amidst torrential rains, mud and heat. On their first day, the meals were prepared in Australian chuck wagons and the idea of fresh food would be a distant memory from the past. From here on out, everything would be canned, dehydrated or cured. Having come from the fishing town of Broad Channel, Smitty was accustom to eating seafood and was even teased in boot camp for liking the creamed chipped beef on toast (more commonly known as -“shit-on-a-shingle”), but those days were long gone. I remember him saying more than once, “It wasn’t that the powdered eggs tasted bad — they just didn’t have a taste.”
New Guinea, WWII
Although General Swing, commander of the 11th A/B, had contracted malaria and was hospitalized when his men shipped out of the U.S., he boarded a plane for Brisbane, Australia to attend a meeting with Gen. MacArthur. Swing was briefed on the immediate plans for his command and was reminded that the 11th A/B was considered a “secret weapon”, they would be in reserve for the New Guinea action though. Swing managed to be in Dobodura in time to meet his men as they disembarked.
Letter VI Land Ho! On the port side
Dear Mom, Well, land is in sight so I’ll just hold off this letter awhile until I can find out for sure if this is what we have all been waiting for or just another island…. Yep and yes siree this is finally it and from what I have seen up to now it is going to prove not only an interesting place, but picturesque as well. Don’t know yet if we can say where we are, so I won’t attempt it.
Everyone is standing along the railings with glasses while those less fortunate are straining their eyes trying to get a glimpse of our new and strange surroundings. It is all very exciting and thrilling and must say one gets sort of feeling down deep that is hard to explain. It might be that the sight of this long awaited place has sub-consciously awaked us to the fact that we are one heck of a long way from home.
Now that we are here in a port with a chance of possibly getting this letter mailed, I’ll close this letter and mail it as I know how anxious you must be about me and would like to hear from me as soon as possible. I promise you though that I will continue to write my letters like this and would like you to save them all so that when I get back I will have something to read back on and maybe remember.
I did finally get around to so don’t worry any on that account. I know how you worry about things like that so thought it best that you know. That is just about all there is for now, so with regards to all and hoping this letter is the answer to your nightly prayers, I’ll close with all my love and millions of hugs and kisses.
Your son, Everett
CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE.
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Military Humor –
poking fun at intelligence
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Farewell Salutes –
Hugh Barnes – Apopka, FL; US Navy, USS Midway & Staten Island, mechanic & air rescue
Arlie P. Barrett – Bluff City, TN; US Army, Korea, Pfc. # 13320041, E Co/2/19/24th Infantry Division, KIA (Pusan, SK)
Glory reflected;
courtesy of Dan Antion
John A. Bodie – Sierra Vista, AZ; US Navy, Middle East, Petty Officer 1st Class (Ret. 21 y.), USS Midway, Enterprise, Abe Lincoln & Belleau Wood
Terry Carter – London, ENG; RAF
Louis DiGuiseppe – New Haven, CT; US Army, WWII, ETO, “Rainbow Division”, Bronze Star
Carlos L. Jensen – Richfield, UT; US Navy, USS Midway & Enterprise
Gerald E. Nichols – Ellicott City, MD; US Navy, helicopter technician (Ret. 26 y.), USS Midway Museum volunteer
Kenneth W. “Viper” Pettigrew – Miramar, CA; US Navy, Vietnam, pilot, Silver Star, USS Kitty Hawk & Midway, RAdmiral (Ret. 38 y.)
Roy W. Sherwood – Chubbuck, ID; US Navy, USS Midway
Jakari W. Taylor – Panama City, FL; US Army, Afghanistan, MP dog handler, DSgt.
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” YOU SAID ‘MONDAY’??!!! picture courtesy of: birdofbitterness.wordpress.com
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Letter V : “Yep! Still at Sea”
cards aboard a troop ship
Dear Letter V Yep! Still at sea
Mom, I was seriously thinking of tearing this letter up, as I couldn’t for the life of me locate an airmail stamp aboard ship. I kept at it though until finally fortune smiled down on me and success was mine. I have been pretty lucky so far at my card playing activities and should it hold out until we reach some civilized port, why I’ll be ahead and you will be pleasantly surprised when you receive my check for like amount. We can cable home money from abroad so might just as well take your advice — surprised? — and send it home for that day when we shall all return.
We have a large map of the world hanging up on the wall, which supplies us with as much amusement trying to figure out just where we are. According to figures, dates, times and patience, we should be hitting a port sometime real soon. In fact there is a rumor being whispered about that we will hit one tomorrow. Now this rumor comes from good authority seeing that it came from a fellow whose first sergeant is a second cousin to the uncle of the father of the first mate whose brother is third cook on this boat. Now, can’t you see why we are so glumly overjoyed? All kidding aside though, we should be nearing one soon.
Playing cribbage aboard ship
We saw a movie last night down in the mess hall. It was quite an old picture, but luckily for me, I hadn’t seen it before, so therefore I spent my most enjoyable hour so far on this trip. The officers on this trip haven’t been having it quite as tough as us, but rough enough. In order to pass away their time they have taken up the game of badminton with a zeal and I must say have really kept at it until now this regiment can boast it has not only badminton players, but experts as well. By the way, I have also learned how to play the old card game of Cribbage. Ever hear tell of it before? Well mom, that is all for today, so once again I’ll sign off, but before I do, give my regards to all and I’ll write again soon.
Love and kisses, Everett
CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE.
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Military Humor –
An awkward moment in After Steering.
The Navy’s new terrorist ‘catch & release’ program!
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Farewell Salutes –
Manuel Albuquerque – brn: DOM REP; US Army, MSgt. (ret 21 y.), EOD specialist
Charles F. Blair – Howard County, MD; US Army, Vietnam, helicopter pilot
Dwight “Cee-Born” Curry – East Meadow, NY; US Army, Gulf War
Frank L. Duncan – Toledo, OH; US Army Air Corps/Air Force, WWII, Korea & Vietnam, aircraft rescue & Firefighter, (Ret. 21 y.)
Melvin J. Goldberg – Tom’s River, NJ; US Navy, Medical unit, doctor
Alfred Hammon – Plainfield, NJ; US Merchant Marine, WWII / US Navy, Annapolis Class ’47, Korea, LT.
Timothy Johns – Wayne County, MI; US Army, dental clinic
Richard H. Johnson – Manlius, NY; US Air Force, Vietnam, pilot, DFC & Bronze Star, Lt.Col. (Ret.)
Lyle J. Madison – Silverdale, WA; US Army, Vietnam
Jerry O’Rear Jr. – Anaheim, CA; US Navy, Afghanistan, corpsman
Jerry S. Schafer – Port Townsend, WA; US Navy, Vietnam
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uh, My week went well… Yours?
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Letter IV Still at Sea in a Quandary
Just two days out of San Francisco, CA, the dismal conditions aboard Smitty’s troop ship, heading southwest, took a turn for the worse. The cool weather became stifling hot and humid. The fresh meat and vegetables ran out and Spam sandwich became the lunch cuisine of record.
How to get shut-eye?
The troops learned that dehydrated potatoes, cooked to the consistency of pebbles; powered eggs, unrecognizable except for the color; and hot dogs of no discernible pedigree were to be the standard ‘menu’. Nobody asked for seconds!
powdered eggs
When Smitty and the other troopers passed the equator, as per naval tradition, the ship’s crew donned their apparel of King Neptune and his court in preparation of handing the “Pollywogs” (the soldiers) their certificates of crossing. The Royal Barber tried to cut the hair of the crew-cut troopers and the Royal Executioner paddled a backside with an oar if the receiving line moved too closely to a snail’s pace. (which one can imagine was every G.I. derriere that went by!) Smitty was one to really enjoy this sort of tomfoolery — even if it was with the navy! The water damage you see to Smitty’s certificate (pictured below) is one of the reasons I began to make a facsimile of his scrapbook onto the computer. I have re-typed the contents of the certificate to show the humor involved — despite a war.
equator crossing
IT Read….
To All Sailors, Marines, Whatever Ye Maybe: Greetings: and to all Mermaids, Whales, Sea Serpents, Porpoises, Sharks, Eels, Dolphins, Skates, Suckers, Crabs, Lobsters and all other Living Things of the Sea: Know ye, that on this June 15 ’44 in Latitude 00000 and Longitude Cape Mendacia there appeared within Our Royal Domain the bound Southwestward for the Equator, the South Sea Islands, New Zealand and Australian ports.
BE IT REMEMBERED That the said Vessel and Officers and Crew thereof have been inspected and passed on by Ourselves and Royal Staff: AND BE IT KNOWN By all ye Sailors, Marines, Landlubbers, Soldiers and all others who may be honored by his presence, that Pollywog Everett A. Smith 32816491 Having been found worthy to be numbered as one of our Trusty Shellbacks he has been duly initiated into the SOLEMN MYSTERIES OF THE ANCIENT ORDER OF THE DEEP Be It Further Understood: That by Virtue of the power invested in me I do hereby command all my subjects to show honor and respect to him wherever he may be. Disobey the Order under Penalty of Royal Displeasure. (bottom left) Given under our band and seal this Davey Jones, His Majesty’s Scribe – (bottom right) Neptunus Rex, His Servant – the signature appears to be Gregory Cullen
equator crossing certificate
Smitty’s Letter IV
Letter IV Still at sea in a quandary
Dear Mom, Well, here I am again as promised. Yesterday we had a little something different to sea besides the sea. Notice that I’m getting so that I can only spell the sea when I mean to write see. Early in the morning we had the pleasure of seeing another ship and must say it sure made one feel good. Why it should though I can’t say unless it is the thought that someone else is having it just as tough. Guess there is some truth in the saying, “Misery loves company.” We also had the pleasure of watching some islands in the far off distance. I won’t try to describe them to you, as that would be too much to expect to pass. (Censorship) You will kindly take notice that I used the words “pleasant” and “pleasure,” if I keep that up you might get the idea this is getting to be that kind of voyage. Some amusing things do happen though, such as the boys sleeping out on the deck getting caught in the rain or some clumsy ox slipping and sliding his way along the boat. By the way, I forgot to tell you that we get the regular news everyday in a printed form resembling a newspaper. Also music by record, sounds tinny, but anything out here is good.
You can readily see I haven’t much ambition for writing today, which reminds me Matter of fact, the way I feel right now, I don’t care much whether I do or not.
Well, that is all for today’s report on nothing,
so with all my love, I am your ever obedient son, Everett
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Military (Navy) Humor –
“Well landlubbers, a funny thing happened the first few days aboard our troops ship….”
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Farewell Salutes –
George C. Browning – Englewood, NJ; USMC, WWII, PTO, Pvt. # 472774, KIA (Iwo Jima)
Robert W. Cash – Minneapolis, MN; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, Pvt. # 17025678, 20th Air Base Group, POW, DWC (Cabanatuan Camp # 1, Luzon)
Arthur J. Gregg – Richmond, VA; US Army, Lt. General (Ret. 35 y.)
George H. Grimes – Indianapolis, IN; US Navy, WWII / USMC, Korea, Purple Heart, Vietnam, Lt. Colonel (Ret.)
Bill E. Jacobs – Hiawatha, KS; US Navy, USS Midway
William Jekielek – Niagara Falls, NY; USMC, WWII / US Army, Korea
William D. Mahoney – Templeton, CA; US Army National Guard, Chief Warrant Officer4, Middle East, (Ret.)
Charles McAllister – Seattle, WA; US Army, WWI (this is Not a typo), Pfc., 26/1st Division, KIA (FRA 19 July 1918)
Jerry D. O’Rear Jr. – Anaheim, CA; US Navy, Afghanistan, corpsman
Albert P. Sharpless – Washington D.C.; US Naval Reserve / US Army
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Smitty – Somewhere at sea at a loss | Letter III
American troops at sea at a loss, May 1944
From my father’s description of his transport ship out of San Francisco and the approximate number of soldiers that were aboard, I can speculate that it was a Heywood class ship, a Merchant Marine troop transport. As the ship lumbered out to the ocean swells, many of the young men took their final glance of the USA. Smitty thought that his most boring time in the army was while he sailed on this cruise, although he did well in learning how to play cards – as did many other G.I.’s.
USS Heywood
According to General E.M. Flanagan, in his book, The Rakkasans, he was in total agreement with Smitty in reference to the onboard meals. “The food was only marginal even at the beginning of the trip and degenerated rapidly thereafter. Spam would never again be a food of choice for the men of the 187th.”
Letter III Somewhere at sea at a loss
Dear Mom,
We have been on this tub for quite some time now and I must say that although the army doesn’t go to any great pains making you comfortable, they sure do go to extremes making it unpleasant. I can’t tell you as much as I would like to about the trip or what we are doing. One reason is that we don’t know where the heck we are anyway and as for what we are doing, well anything we might like to do would be stopped sooner than it got started. It has gotten so that now we have to play cards, if money is displayed, down in the hold. Seems as though the sea gulls over this ocean are the pious type and the sight of men gambling is revolting — or they think it is food.
To try and describe the food or the mess hall would curtail the use of profanity the like of which I wouldn’t attempt to use. To call it food in the first place is flattery at its best. Mess Hall is very appropriate — it is some MESS. This is the first time in my life that I can truthfully say I dread the thought of eating. We are supposed to tell you that on board ship we can purchase cigarettes for 4 1/2 cents a pack, also candy and a load of other stuff at cost price. We can also buy bottles of coca cola, but the blame stuff is so hot that we are of the opinion that loaded down with this coke in our stomachs, we might be used as depth charges if a sub should show up. We did receive free, with no strings attached, a bag full of necessary things from the Red Cross. It really was worthwhile going after.
Where we might be bound for is still a very big question that will no doubt be answered only when we finally arrive there. After all, if we knew, we might tell it to the stars and that would be just awful. I realize this doesn’t sound like a very pleasant letter, but then you must take into consideration this isn’t a very pleasant trip. None of those romantic moonlit nights. Well, that is all for today, so until later on when I will be back to add to this,
I’ll say so long for now and all my love, Everett
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Military Humor – 
USS Darter cartoon, “CHOW DOWN” In the crew’s mess
“Spud peeling machines? Yes, you’re the latest model.”
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Farewell Salutes –
John Bochnovich Jr. – New Brunswick, NJ; US Navy, Chief Warrant Officer2 (Ret. 20 y.)
William E. Calkins – Marion County, OR; US Army, WWII, PTO, Pvt. # 19020998, 31st Infantry Regiment, POW, Bronze Star, DWC (P.I.)
Julian R. Harvey – Orlando, FL; US Navy, Korea, USS Midway
Eldon “Sam” Kitchen – Fayetteville, NC; USMC, WWII / US Army, Korea & Vietnam, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Colonel (Ret. 30 y.)
James G. Laberson – San Diego, CA; US Navy, USS Midway
Donald W. Melchert – Ionia, MI; US Navy, Korea, USS Midway
Edward S. Osheskie – Apollo, PA; US Navy, Korea, USS Midway, Secretary to the Executive Officer
Karl R. Rosbach – Chehalis, WA; USMC, Korea, Sgt.
Edward J. Smith – Philadelphia County, PA; US Army, Korea, Cpl. # 13273629, KIA (NK)
Roderick Vinson – Charlotte, NC; US Army, Middle East, Lt. Colonel (37 y.), US Army Central Deputy Chief of Staff, DWS (Shaw Air Force Base)
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Camp Stoneman and Letter # 2
POE – Camp Stoneman
This photograph above was removed from a New York newspaper by my grandmother and put in Smitty’s scrapbook. The sign above the entry states: “Through these portals pass the best damn soldiers in the World.” The clipping beside it indicates shipping out dates. The 11th A/B departed May 5, 1944. Smitty said that this cruise would be the most boring part of his service, although he did become quite adept at playing cards during this time.
Smitty was unable to tell his mother that he and the 11th A/B would be shipping out the following day – destination and mission unknown. The men cruised from Suisan Bay into San Pablo Bay, into San Francisco Bay and under the Oakland Bridge to Oakland Mole where the Red Cross passed out coffee and donuts while they boarded the transport ships. So … back under the Oakland Bridge, thru San Francisco Bay and under the Golden Gate Bridge to the open Pacific.
Letter II Thursday 5/4/44
Dear Mom,
There really isn’t much to write about as I’ve told you most everything on the phone. By the way, when you receive your bill for the month let me know just how much these calls cost.
I heard from *Harley yesterday and it seems that he wants something to do and they just won’t give him anything. They have now made him landscape sergeant and I can just see him pulling weeds and taking care of flowers. If he should ever get his load on, he’ll nip out the flowers and let the weeds alone. I haven’t written to Woods yet, but give me time. I’ll get around to it before long.
We have to police up the area now, so will leave you for a while. Be back before long. — Hello again. We no sooner pick up the old cigarette butts and paper than some jerk behind you drops one so that cleaning up is getting to be a problem. Policing up is what is known as body bending exercise, head down, backsides pointing to the sky.
Well mom, that is all there is for now so take care of yourself and give my regards to all.
All my love, Everett
* Harley was a friend from back home in Broad Channel, now in the Army.
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Military Humor –
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Farewell Salutes –
Lewis Achen – Havre, MT; Central Intelligence Agency
John Baeta (101) – Sacramento, CA; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, B-25 pilot, Captain, DFC, Bronze Star
RESPECT
Dan W. Corson – Middletown, OH; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, 1st Lt., B-17F pilot # 0-789375, 401BS/91BG/8th Air Force, KIA (FRA)
Conwell Duncan – Galatia, NC; US Merchant Marines, WWII / US Army, Korea & Vietnam
Dale R. Granger – Adams, MA; US Army, Kosovo, 1st Infantry Division, Colonel (Ret. 33 y.)
G. William Hall – Cherry Hill, NJ; US Merchant Marines, WWII / US Army, Korea
Jobuo Izumi – Los Angeles, CA; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, 101st Airborne Division / US Air Force, Korea & Vietnam, CMSgt., Bronze Star
Stanley G. Kaminsky – Poway, CA; US Navy, USS Midway & Intrepid
Ronald W. McKinney Sr. – Sherman, TX; US Air Force, MSgt.
Charles C. Royer – Clintondale, PA; US Navy, USS Catamount & Midway, radarman
Joseph Steranka – Lansford, PA; US Navy, Master Chief Petty Officer, USS Enterprise / NASA meteorologist
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AM I LATE FOR MONDAY?
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Camp Stoneman and Letter home # 1
Camp Stoneman
Pvt. Smith was as cocky and proud as the next trooper, but he also thought of the Army as a learning experience and considered his new adventure as a chance to experience things he would not otherwise have the opportunity and on April 23, 1944, he stepped off a train near Camp Stoneman, California. It was here the troopers would learn how to live aboard ship, operate life boats, raft kits and climb up and down rope ladders. Censorship of the soldier’s letters began here as well.
The Inspector General’s men discovered the ruse of the 11th A/B Division hiding behind the paperwork of Shipment #1855 and the troopers began to accumulate AW104’s in record amounts. (Under the Article of War #104 – a commanding officer may give punishment, as is necessary, without the threat of court-martial.) May 2, the 11th A/B moved to Pittsburg, CA by way of inland boats to their actual POE/POD (Point of Entry/Point of Departure), and the letters from Smitty began …
Letter I Tuesday 5/2/44
Dear Mom,
I sure am a fine one after calling you Sunday especially to wish you a Happy Birthday and I go and forget to, but I assure you it wasn’t intentional, but just excitement of the conversation. I tried yesterday to buy a card, but to no avail. No doubt by the time you receive this letter you will be wondering why I didn’t call you this week as I promised I would. It just so happened that we were confined to our company area starting yesterday morning, so it was an impossibility to get to either a telephone or telegraph office. From now on all my letters to you will be numbered as this one is in the upper left hand corner. In that way, you can read my letters in sequence and can tell whether or not you are receiving all my letters. I would also advise sending all letters to me from now on by airmail as that will be the quickest way. We heard that not all the mail so far from here has yet been sent out, but when it does go out, why you will no doubt get them all at once. Tell everyone at home to be patient and they will no doubt hear from me as I sit down Saturday and either write a letter or card to everyone I know. You had better check up on them all and see that they have my correct address, as the army will notify only you of any new changes. I sure don’t want to lose out on my letters of anyone just because they have an incorrect address.
Yesterday we didn’t do much of anything, but Sunday was really quite an entertaining day. We went bowling, then to a free USO show and from there to a movie. The entertainment is so full and alive that sometimes it still persists in your dreams. Therefore, you can really say they even take care of you while you are slumbering. Well mom, that is all for now, so once more I want to wish you a “Happy Birthday” and the best of everything. Don’t worry and keep your chin up.
Love, Everett
PS – Be on the lookout for a new Class E allotment I made out and also a B allotment. Your allotments now will come to 22 dollars cash and a $18.75 war bond a month. I’m getting pretty good, aren’t I?
Camp Stoneman souvenir
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Military Humor – 
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Farewell Salutes –
Edward A. Amodeo – Boston, MA; US Merchant Marines, WWII / US Army, Military Police
Jerry Betzold – Avon, IN; USMC, SSgt., Tactical Training Control Group, DWS (Twenty-Nine Palms, CA)
Remembering…
Peter Chounthala – Oceanside, CA; USMC, Afghanistan, SSgt., DWS (Los Angeles, CA)
Owen J. Elliot – Twin City, GA; Georgia National Guard, Iraq, Specialist, 1/118th Artillery, DWS (Bagdad)
Robert Felloes – Sandringham, ENG; British Army / House of Lords
Tyler Jacobs – USA; US Air Force, Airman 1st Class, DWS (Misawa, Japan)
Robert M. Marquette Jr. – E. Liverpool, OH; US Air Force, Vietnam, MGeneral (Ret. 30 y.), Bronze Star, DFC
Travis J. Pameni – Douglasville, GA; Georgia National Guard, Specialist, Iraq, 1/121st Infantry Regiment, DWS (Iraq)
Alma Powell – Birmingham, AL; Chairwoman for “America’s Promise”, Arlington Ladies member
Charles R. Sniffin – brn: Haiti US Military Base; USMC, WWII & Korea / US Army, Vietnam, War College Army Staff, NATO Staff/ MGeneral (Ret.38 y.), Purple Heart, Silver Star
Kye D. Vang – Aurora, CO; US Air Force. 8th Security Forces Squadron, DWS (Kunsan Air Base, SK)
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Camp Polk, LA and the Louisiana Maneuvers
It took 22 trains and one week to transport the proud and cocky division to Camp Polk in the west-central area of Louisiana. This was the home of the armored forces and it would not take long for the two units to clash. But first, the 11th A/B planned to enjoy the improved living conditions and the 3.2 beer. They found time to “hit the town” and often it was a place called “Scotty’s,” just outside of Southern Pines.
The tank units, who called Camp Polk their home, did not take kindly to the new finely tuned troopers who were in the best shape of their lives (and they knew it!). The 11th A/B would often “unboot” the tankers when they were in town, forcing them to return to base barefoot and find their footwear neatly lined up in their barracks.
Beginning Jan. 10, the men underwent harsh training in preparation for the tests at the hands of the Third Army. The Louisiana Maneuvers began Feb. 5 with the troopers bivouacked near Hawthorne, LA. There were 4 tactical maneuvers lasting 3 days each. First, they jumped and marched immediately after. Then they attacked and defended using an attack sequence of “flags & umpires.” Finally, the “enemy” broke through and they would retreat. The weather in the Calcasieu Swamp was snow, hail, sleet and enough rain to swallow a jeep. The men joked that the camp should be a naval base. On Feb. 20, the 11th airborne division took and passed their infantry tests.
About this time, Gen. Swing was pleased to be told that the troopers were being sent to the Pacific Theater and MacArthur would consider the unit his “secret weapon.” This turned out to be one reason for the lack of newspaper coverage for the division until they landed in the Philippines. I discovered this after an extensive search in the Australian library and newspaper archives.
The 11th was restricted to base for one month. Swing decided the men should travel to their POE (Port of Exit/Entry) Camp Stoneman, CA incognito as Shipment # 1855 in an effort to bypass the Inspector General’s men. Orders were to look and act as a “straight-leg” unit; ALL paratrooper I.D. and clothing to be stowed away.
***** *****
News from home: The Banner (Broad Channel newspaper sent to servicemen) reports: NY Governor Dewey signed a bill that would allow fishermen of Jamaica Bay to shoot an unlimited amount of eels, but the shooting had to be done with bow and arrow. Smitty’s mom says: everyone is still trying to figure that one out.
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Arthur D’Agostino
Fellow blogger, Carl D’Agostino’s father, Arthur D’Agostino had been with the 8th Armored Division. They were stationed at Camp Campbell, KY until 1943 when they were moved to Camp Polk, LA to prepare for combat. The division was sent to the European Theater on 5 December 1943, but Mr. D’Agostino was in recovery from surgery and was spared the journey. Carl’s blog can be found @ “i know i made you smile”
Unfortunately, the world lost Arthur R. D’Agostino, 97. when he passed away March 17, 2021. Served 8th Armored Division March 1943 – September – 1944. T-Sgt. Survived by his son, Carl, two grandchildren and 4 great children. An honest, upright, kind and generous man to all and the best father a son could ever hope for.
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Military Humor –
Drill Instructor
tank humor
Camp Polk humor, click on to enlarge
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Farewell Salutes –
Walter “Jake” Adkins – Columbia City, IN; US Merchant Marines, WWII/ US Army, Korea, Cpl.
Akira “Ron” Arakawa – Guadalupe, CA; US Navy, Vietnam, USS Midway, (Ret. 32 y.)
Ralph H. Bode – Racine, WI; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, SSgt., 700BS/445BG/2nd Air Division/8th Air Force, B-24H tailgunner, KIA (Kassel, GER)
Arturo A. Gomez – Cottonwood Heights, UT; US Army, Pfc., Artic Angels 11th Airborne Division, KWS (AK)
Alfred J. Hamwey – Jacksonville, FL; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, 2nd Lt., A-20G pilot, KIA (Cape Wom, NG)
Richard L. Kingore – Dallas, TX; US Navy, USS Midway, radarman
Hao Y. Li – Seattle, WA; US Army, Iraq, Chief Warrant Officer3, HQ/I Corps, DWS (J-B Lewis-McCord)
Earl Mortenson – Johnson, WI; US Army, Japanese Occupation
John Vierra – Keizer, OR; US Merchant Marines, WWII / USMC / US Army, Korea & Vietnam, Sgt. (Ret. 26 y.)
Herbert A. Zoehrer – Yonkers, NY; US Navy, Annapolis Class ’51, USS Ticonderoga, Cleveland & New Orleans / Cmdr. ASW Wing Pacific / Training Officer, (Ret. 30 y.), docent of USS Midway Museum
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The First Division To Graduate Camp MacKall 1943
E. Smith (Smitty), back row, 5th from the right. 187th Reg.; picture from Yearbook 1943
Smitty had acquired additional postcards to show the people back home what Camp MacKall looked like. They were in the scrapbook his mother put together and was saved for all these years. I have found other photos from his fellow troopers… I hope you find them interesting.
General Order No. 1 listed the original organic units of the 11th Airborne Division, as they moved on with their training, as follows:
Headquarters, 11 A/B Division
Headquarters Company, 11th A/B Division
Military Police Platoon, 11 A/B Division
408th A/B Quartermaster Company
511th A/B Signal Company
711th A/B Ordnance Maintenance Company
221st A/B Medical Company
127th A/B Engineer Battalion
152nd A/B Antiaircraft Battalion
HQ & HQ Battery, 11th A/B Artillery
457th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion
674th Glider Field Artillery Battalion
675th Glider Field Artillery Battalion
187th Glider Infantry Regiment
188th Glider Infantry Regiment
511th Parachute Infantry Regiment
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Total = 8,321 men
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Military Humor –
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Farewell Salutes –
Lewis Achen – Havre, MT; Central Intelligence Agency
Robert Allen – San Diego, CA; US Army, WWII, TSgt. # 393036804, KIA
Danny Banshaw – Moore, OK; US Navy, airman, USS Midway, Enterprise & Coral Sea
Mark Dean – Newport Beach, CA; US Navy, Vietnam, USS Aludra & Midway
Leslie P. Gisler – Balmertown, CAN; US Army, Vietnam, Captain, Purple Heart
Stanley J. Kahurik – Miner’s Mill, PA; US Air Force, Vietnam
John E. Montgomery III – Birmingham, AL; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, Mustang fighter pilot / US Air Force, Korea, Lt.Colonel (Ret.)
George Robert Newhart – Oak Park, IL; US Army, Korea, SSgt., Armed Forces Radio Unit / Actor, comedian
Ronald D. Olsen – NYC, NY; US Army
Roy Sherwood – Chubbuck, ID; US Navy, USS Midway
Paul Wheeler – Warwood, WV; US Navy, Korea, USS Midway
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P.S. I realize the fact that Pres. Biden has stepped down and politics is a major topic now, but I will NOT be clicking on any political post. The way I vote is my own choice.
Camp MacKall – Oh no, the 511th
Gen. E.M. Flanagan
The following story has been condensed from the “Angels: A History of the 11th Airborne Division” by MGeneral E.M. Flanagan Jr.
The 511th made waves for the 11th A/B Div.
Gen. J.M. Swing
General Swing, realized he was commanding an outfit of cocky paratroopers with special jump pay and glider troops who had no voice in their assignment and no extra pay to compensate for being forced to go to war in a rickety, undependable glider in equal hazardous duty. Unless he took some drastic action, the division would be split.
Reports filtered back to Gen. Swing at Camp MacKall that the 511th troopers were full of arrogant, rowdy hell-raisers lacking in discipline. But when the regiment joined up with the 11th Airborne, Swing was ready for them. Henry Muller [G-2 officer] remembered:
Gen. H.J. Muller
“It was quite a shock to us. Gen. Swing, who had heard terrible reports about the alleged rowdyism and unprofessionalism, was determined to ‘make us right.’ The first thing to go were the leather jackets [Air Corps ‘bomber jackets’ issued to flight crews] being worn by the paratrooper officers. Next were the beloved boots for all ranks! We were in a state of shock.
“That dreadful morning when we all had to put on ‘leggings’ nearly broke our spirits – but not for long. The old horse artilleryman [Swing] knew what it would take to bring a high spirited horse under control. In the long run it was good for us too-cocky paratroopers and helped prevent unhealthy rivalry between paratroopers and glidermen. The glidermen had been referred to as ‘Haimes’ at this point.”
Waco glider
Unfettered by his superior officers, Gen. Swing would ensure that the entire division would operate as both paratroopers and glidermen. He set up the 11th Airborne’s own jump schools at Camp Polk, New Guinea and the Philippines.
According to Smitty, the 511th continued to maintain their air of superiority throughout the war which also continued the rivalries; just unbeknownst to most the officers.
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Military Humor –
“It’s best not to speak to paratroopers about saluting. They’ll only ask you where you got your boots.”
Para-toast
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Farewell Salutes –
Russell T. Albert Jr. – Millstadt, IL; USMC, Vietnam, Purple Heart
Dorian Baker – Columbia, SC; US Army, Sgt., HQ Co/42/2nd Aviation Combat Brigade, DWS (Pyeongtaek, SK)
William “BJ” Barker Jr. – Chicago, IL; USMC
Daniel Cohen – Longmeadow, MA; US Air Force, Captain, dentist
Billy M. Fletcher – San Antonio, TX; US Navy, WWII, PTO / US Army, Vietnam
Robert A. Krueger – Minneapolis, MN; US Army, Korea, Vietnam, Inspector General, Army Intelligence, Lt. Colonel (Ret. 20 y.)
Joseph Alexander Mc Grorty – Nashville, TN; US Navy, Vietnam, Master Chief (Ret. 25 y.)
Tony Morros – W. Palm Beach, FL; US Navy, Engineman 2nd Class
Stanley Owens – Massillon, OH; US Navy, USS Rainier & Midway
William M. Wilkins – Madisonville, KY; US Navy, Korea, gunner
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Camp MacKall and the Knollwood Maneuvers
Waco glider
WACO glider at Camp MacKall – reverse side reads: “Hello Mom, Finally got some cards that can let you see what these gliders we ride around in look like. This picture was taken on our camp field. I have a few more that I’ll send to you. Regards to all. Hope to be home this Wednesday.” Everett
Station Hospital, Camp MacKall, NC
The type of construction used for the barracks at Camp MacKall and the above hospital is called a “theatre of operations.” Built on pilings and constructed of green sawed pine boards which is then covered with type 4 black tar paper. The wood was cut from trees on the camp property using 7 sawmills running 24/7. When the boards dried out, the 2 pot-bellied stoves were incapable of keeping the men warm. Smitty spent some time at that hospital when the army discovered he did not perspire. The medication took 3 weeks to kick in and then he was back to marching.
The Knollwood Maneuver would not only be the deciding factor for the 11th Airborne, but also for future paratrooper divisions as a whole. 5 December 1943, Army Ground Forces test team deployed a composite combat team from the 17th A/B, plus a battalion from Col. Duke McEntee’s 541st Parachute Infantry Regiment to be situated at Knollwood Airport and other critical points to act as the ‘enemy.’
Viewer to this operation included: Under Secretary of War, Robert Patterson; General McNair; General Ridgeway (82nd A/B); BGen. Lee Donovan; Airborne Command and several teams of high-ranking inspectors from the War Dept., Army Ground Forces and Army Air Forces.
Camp MacKall 1943
On midnight of Dec. 6, 1943, 200 C-47 Dakota transports carried the troopers and towed the 234 gliders from five separate airfields to begin the operation. The lift-offs were timed so that each plane would join the column in its proper place. The aircraft became a vee-of-vees, nine ships wide as the formations grew larger. They made a rendezvous on the Atlantic coastline and took a 200 mile circular route before aiming toward the inland drop zones; most of the men would jump during evening’s darkness at 1200′. Almost all the troopers and gliders hit the proper DZ (drop Zones) and LZs (landing zone). However, the division chief of staff and his glider load landed in a road on the Fort Bragg artillery range.
Generals McNair & Donovan confer during Knollwood Maneuvers
Weather conditions were not conducive for jumping as the rain became sleet, but still, 85% were successful. There were 2 casualties and 48 injuries. The 11th Airborne “captured” and “held” the Aberdeen and Knollwood Airports from the defending forces. The exercise came to an end on Dec. 12 – Smitty’s 29th birthday. The War Dept., after reviewing the reports, replied to Gen. Swing that they had been wrong and the training for such a specialized unit should proceed. (As it would turn out, their training had only just begun. )
For a complete and detailed look at the Knollwood Maneuvers, a friend of mine, Eugene Piasecki, U.S. Army Historian, has his data online now…
https://arsof-history.org/articles/v4n1_knollwood_page_1.html
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News from home:
Smitty’s friend, George Dunlop rescued two Navy pilots after their training plane crashed into Jamaica Bay. The company of soldiers that were stationed on Broad Channel became an actual camp and decided to call it — Camp Smith! War bond drives were going on as well as the dimming of the street lamps.
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Military Humor –
“On the job training”
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Farewell Salutes –
Richard Allen – Williston, VT; US Navy, Korea, USS Midway, photographer
Randy W. Christenson – MT; US Army, Lt.Colonel (Ret. 25 y.), Medical unit, radiologist
Jess Lee Davis – TN; US Navy, USS Alexandria, DWS
Charles Jeannes – Warren, OH; US Navy, Korea, USS Midway
Anthony J. Lopa – Bergen County, NJ; US Army, Korea, Pvt. # 12329225, Batt. A/82 AAA/2nd Infantry Division, KIA (NK)
Norman McCaw – Lincoln, RI; US Navy, WWII, USS Midway
William Mullen – USA; USMC; Iraq; MGeneral (Ret. 34 y.) / Military aide to Pres. Clinton
Charles E. Murphy – Burgaw, NC; US Army, Vietnam, Colonel, 83rd Ordnance Battalion
Jon Preston – FL & HI; US Navy, torpedoes / Civilian, Boeing Aerospace, missiles
Stephen J. William – TX; US Navy, SW Maintenance Center, DWS
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Pacific Paratrooper 