A CONDENSED HISTORY OF THE CITIZEN SOLDIER OF WAYNE COUNTY
Compiled and Published by Wayne County Barracks No. 206 Veterans of WWI
June 1st 1962
Donated by Bettie Wheat
Transcribed by Laurie Selpien
THE VETERANS STRUGGLE FOR BENEFITS
Staff Sergeant Richard F. Walton
(U. S. Army Reserve Center Dedicated September 7, I960 In His Honor)
U.S. ARMY RESERVES ORGANIZED IN FAIRFIELD
LADIES AUXILIARY WAYNE COUNTY BARRACKS NO. 206
CHARTER MEMBERS BARRACKS 206 WORLD WAR I
Wayne County Barracks No. 206 Veterans of World War 1
World War 1 Veterans (List of soldiers)
World War II Veterans (List of soldiers)
LADIES AUXILIARY Anthony Wayne Post 176
Ladies Auxiliary Gresharm Post No. 603. Cisne
AWARD CITATION TO BENNY ROUNTREE
Gold Star Boys
HONOR SPANISH AMERICAN WAR VETERANS
Seated, from left: Orville Dunahoo, Harry Eckleberry and Lewis Ivers. Standing, from left: Ed L. Kieser and Jerd V. Smith. Charley Hughes, a member of the committee, was absent when picture was taken.
Compiling the material, editing and publishing a book of this nature takes much time, much effort and much planning.
Above are the members of Barroiks 206 World War- I Veterans who did the work and they are grateful to all who assisted them in any way.
THE VETERANS STRUGGLE FOR BENEFITS
All wars produce veterans and they in turn have produced associations and societies of veterans. The soldiers of the Continental army shivering at Valley Forge, discussed the rights of man and the wrong of royal tyranny, and the future of the United colonies when the British yoke would be thrown off.
FIRST AMERICAN VETERANS SOCIETY
First American veterans society formed was Washington's officers who formed the Society of Cincinnati, holding high principle of character and citizenship, yet the line of demarcation between officers and soldiers remained important, a tradition handed down through the- centuries of military tradition. Not until the war between the states would the Grand Army of the North and the United Confederate veterans of the South break down among the veterans, class distinction held over from army organization and discipline. The day of the Veteran citizen had definitely dawned. It was to find a more complete fulfillment after World War One (I) with internal dissentions dead, a united nation defeating a foreign foe. The largest all-inclusive Society of Veterans ever formed in any country, the American Legion, was born—a new veterans citizenship of much greater numbers following the nation's participation in the second World War conflict. President Roosevet stated in a speech at the American Legion convention in Chicago October 2, 1933 in part: "Two principles, first, that no person because he wore a uniform must thereafter be placed in a special class of beneficiaries over and above other citizens."
The "Special Consideration" Issue
All veterans associations have always held a contrary philosophy and throughout Mr. Roosevelt's long public service, resisted the application of his second principle. They could quote many presidents from Washington, Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Wilson in support of special consideration for veterans. However, Mr. Roosevelt, in a radio address to the nation July 28, 1943, outlined a program of benefits for those who would be veterans in the months ahead. Stating in Part, "I have assured the men in the Armed Forces that the United States of America would not let them down when war is done."
"More specifically," he stated, "the American people will insist on fulfilling this American obligation to the American men and women in the Armed Forces who are winning this war for us. The members of the armed forces have been compelled to make greater economic sacrifices and every other kind of sacrifice than the rest of us and are entitled to definite action to take care of their special problems."
Principle two—as he put it October 2, 1933—"First obligation of the nation to make provisions for the battle casualties, the wounded and dependents of the dead." All veterans organizations agree with his principle No. 2. The 1933 speech was uttered fifteen years after the shooting ended in the Argonne forest and along the Meuse. Songs of victory no longer echoed from the hills. Alarms of a new struggle were yet unheard. Mr. Roosevelt's view of special benefits for veterans may have reflected public sentiment of that day and hour, for he was a master at understanding and expressing what the American] people thought. In a 1943 speech amid a new and terrible struggle, Mr. Roosevelt dropped from his philosophy the negation of all special benefits to veterans. He, thereafter, signed a pension bill for the widows and orphans of World War one (1 ) and later a series of enactments making all rights, privileges and benefits granted to those veterans applicableto all who would become Veterans of World War II.
Finally Came The G. I. Bill
Finally, June'1944, he signed wtih pleasing and proud gesture the G. I. Bill of Rights which created for the veterans a grant never before bestowed upon veterans of any earlier conflict. This act has paid back to the nation many times over what it cost.
Dedicated September 7, I960 In His Honor.
Staff Sergeant Richard F. Walton served with the 335th Infantry, 84th Division during World War II, acting in accordance with the finest of the Armed Forces of the United States. He was cited twice for gallantry and awarded the Silver Star and Bronze Star medals. The latter award was presented for heroic service in Germany March 2, 1945 during an enemy counter attack on the flank of his company, disregarding his own personal safety. Staff Sergeant Walton directed his squad into defensive position effectively stopping the enemy attack. The Silver Star was awarded for valor displayed on 10 April 1945. Upon being assigned the mission of capturing a bridge which was guarded by two German tanks, again disregarding personal danger. Staff Sergeant Walton and a fellow soldier advanced to a position within fifty yards of the hostile armor in the ensuing exchange of fire, the two heroic soldiers were killed. This daring action, cool courage and superior performance of duty inspired the other members of the unit to close on the bridge forcing the enemy tanks to retreat and the bridge was captured intact. He dared to die that freedom might live.
U.S. ARMY RESERVES ORGANIZED IN FAIRFIELD
Right after World War II, a small group of officers met to form a Reserve officers unit. Among those in the unit were Major Harry Gualdoni, Capt. Jack Keoughon, and Capt. Herman L. Kirkpatrick, Fairfield, Illinois. The unit met at the American Legion Building in Fairfield, Illinois. Later, Hq & Hq Battery, 5312th ORC, FA Group (Training) was set up. It was still a unit only for reserve officers.
On 17 Jan 31, enlisted men were included in "the newly organized Hq & Hq Co, 3rd Bn, 405th Infantry — a part of the 102nd Infantry Division (USAR), with headquarters in St. Louis, Mo. It was commanded by Lt. Co!. Fred McCollum, Flora, Illinois and met in the Christian Church and later at a converted garage on Main St., Fairfield, Illinois.
On 1 June 59, Hq & Hq Co, 3rd Bn, Infantry was redesignated Hq & Hq Co, 3rd Battle Group, 4th Infantry Regiment. It remained in the 102nd Infantry Division (USAR), but was reorganized as a bottle group under the reorganization of the Combat Infantry Division set out but Department of Defense. The Battle Group wa5 commanded by Col. James A. McCarty, of Centralia, Illinois. Other members of the staff were Moj. Jock 0. Keoughan, Fairfield, Illinois, Deputy Commander; Major Ivan A. Elliott, Jr., Cormi, Illinois, Executive Officer; Capt. Joy A. Mitchell, Noble, Illinois, S-1; Capt. Howard Bayler, Louisville, Illinois, S-2; Maj. Hiram W. G. Brownell, McLeansboro, S-3; and Major James E. Dunn, Pinckneyville, Illinois, S-4. Headquarters company was commanded by Lt. James Bokenkamp, Cisne, Illinois.
Fairfield, Illinois was honored as being the smallest town in the United States to have a Battle Group Headquarters. The units of the Battle Group are in Fairfield, Flora, Newton, Cormi, Marion, Anna, Murphysboro, DuQuoin, Sparta, and Centralia, Illinois.
On 7 Sep 60, S/Sgt. Richard F. Walton, US Army Reserve Center, was dedicated by Maj. Gen. Charles D. W. Conham, Commander of XI US Army Corps. Major Ralph Ferrese, USAR Advisor at Fairfield, Illinois was instrumental in the planning and construction of the new building located at 1002 West Leininger Road, Fairfield, Illinois.
Report 1918 after Armistice became effective. A letter to Governor Lowden by Col. Joseph B. Sanborn, commanding the 1-31st Illinois Infantry and Col. John V. Clinnin, commanding the 130th Illinois Infantry, said in part: "These regiments taking part in bottles of Chipilly Ridge, Somme Closing, Scene of the capture of Chateau's Aulnois and Village of Marcheville,
all Illinois divisions fought on all fronts. Many of them were decorated by the British, French and Belgians for bravery. This group of men fought 47 days without rest, bath or change of clothing. They were continually on the line from Sept. 12 to November 12, 1918. Thirty-five of these men were from Wayne and Clay County namely:
Joseph Wheeler, Cecil Young, Earl Montgomery, Joseph Tully, Bryan (BB) Caudle, Chester Cisne, Oscar Anderson, Raymond Renfro, Oscar Denton, Chester Green, Earnest Shodden, Everet Lee, Jesse Holloway. Earl Rikett, Luther Winchester, Harry Higgason, John Lauderback, Horve Dunnigon, William Smith, E. E. Lee, OIlie Wood, James Brigle, Marion Petty, Robert Hubble.
Had Winning Spirit-
The spirit of 1917 and 1918 carried our nation to victory in 1918 and the service of the citizen soldier and sailors and marines of these times to the nation for 45 years has demonstrated that this spirit has been alive in the breasts of these dedicated men and women who initiated it. That spirit still remains a manifestation on their part of their deermination to render service not only to the notion as a: whole, but to their buddies, in particular, who now must turn to their country for help just as their country turned to them in 1917 and 1918.
LADIES AUXILIARY WAYNE COUNTY BARRACKS NO. 206
Charter members Ladies Auxiliary Wayne County Barracks 206 World War I. Opal Atkinson, Helen Barth, Ella M. Borah, Mary Brodshaw, Flora Cariens, Bertha Cline, Mary Crews, Myrtle Crews, Mary F. Evans, Flossie M. Farmer, Mary Ganieany, Clara Hawbaker, Ruth Hudson, Gladys King, Dollie M. McKneelen, Irene Peddicord, Goldie Schofield, Pansie Simmons, Ester Tibbs.
CHARTER MEMBERS BARRACKS 206 WORLD WAR I
Cooper Cox, Harry R. Eckleberry, Herman W. Farmer, Wayne J. Fox, Vick L. Ganieany, Herbert L. Harrell, Earl H. Harris, Chas. F. Atkinson, Kelly Brown, Edgar Cariens, Fred Donohoo, Marion F. Evans, Ben G. Feller, Homer W. Fleenor, Perry E. Gillison, John ,W. Harrel. Roscoe R. Henson, Loy S. Spalding, Howard L. Taylor, Oscar H. Holman, Lewis Ivers, Robert T. Jones, Ray Lamb, Leslie G. McKneelen, Pierce W. McNeely, Charles B. Musgrave, Fred L. Price, J. Frank Short?, W. W. Simpson, Guy Hudson, Bodell Johnson. Bart Kinney, Harold Leathers, Clarence E. Miller, Frank H. Osterman, Charley E. Reeves, Estel Shackleford, P. Rolland Smith, Hubert Vaughn, Purl L. Spriggs, Fred A. Tubbs, Sivlsbe H. Windland, Claud W. Alien, Roma F. Behymer, Verner R. Bussey.
Preamble and Purpose
Preamble: We the honorably discharged veterans of the armed services of the United States of America of what is here known as World War One (1 ) do hereby band ourselves together to form a permanent organization which shall be known as Veterans of World War One (1 ) of the United States of America.
Purpose of said organization shall be patriotic, fraternal, historical and educational. It shall be formed to assist our needy buddies to perpetuate the memory of our honored dead, to assist his widow and dependents, and to strengthen the memories and incidences of World War One (1 ), to help maintain law and order and to practice a spirit of Americanism in our allegiance to its laws and constitution; to pledge to protect America from all its enemies both within and without.
Any person who served honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States during the period of World War One (1 ) as designated by the Congress of the United States of America and is deemed of good character, shall be eligible for membership in the organization and not in more than one barracks. A member may transfer from one barracks to another upon payment of one dollar transfer fee.
Quote from speech by Hon. Herbert Hoover: "We believe that military service is extraordinary service which transcends the normal duties of citizenship and consequently entitles veterans with. honorable service to special consideration."
Wayne County Barracks No. 206 Veterans of World War 1
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Alien, Veyne B. Alien, William Andrews, Sam W. Atkinson, Chas. F. Austin, Bill P. Austin, E. S. Austin, Kelly Austin, Sam Barr, Orval Barth, Reuben P. Barth, Royal Bashore, Ben Bashore, Frank G. Bayles, George G. Behymer, R. J. Bell, Joe Berry, John W. Bestow, Harry Bland, Elmer Borah, L. E. Boucherie, John W. Bozarth, Jesse Bozarth, Sheridan Braddy, George C. Brach, Ralph L. Brown, Homer W. Brown, Kelly Buchanan, Dosin Buchanan. Homer Bullock, Glenn S. Bunting, D. T. Bunting, R. B. Burner, James Bussey, Verner R. Campbell, Earl S. *Campbell, Loren Cariens, Edgar L. Carnahan, Martin Gates, William H. Chrisman, Frank Clemmons, Earl Collins, Ed Collins, Roscoe E. Copeland, Raymond C. Cox, Cooper Crask, Jess Craig, M. A. Crews, Carl Crews, Ralph B. Davis, W. G. Donoho, Fred Dunahoo, Orville E.
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Draper, Perry E. Eckelberry, Ben Eckelberry, Harry R. Eckles, Ralph A. Elliott, Delbert. Etheridge, J. K. Farmer, Herman Feather, Earnest J. Feathers, Earnest Feller, Ben Files, Paul Fitch, George Fleenor, H. W. Fulkerson, Charles E. Gammons, Callie Gardner, Francis Gardner, Frank J. Ganieany, Vick L. Gillihan, Edward A. Gillison, Perry E. Goff, Delbert Goodman, Thomas L. Gray, Charles C. Gray, Perry Greathouse, Ernest M. Gregory, Louie E. Haefele, Claude Hallam, Otis Hallam, Raymond Hamilton, Chas. E. Handy, James Shell Harrell, Herbert Harris, Earl H. Hartlerode, L. E, Harvey, Anson C. Hawbecker, Arthur C. Haynes, Ben H. Headley, Lafe Hearn, Lawrence K. Hendricks, James Henson, John W. Henson, Rosco Hick5, 0. L. Higdon, William 0. Hilliard, Henry 0. Hinrichs, Elmer H. Holman, 0. H. Hon, Martin L. Hughes, Charles E. Ivers, Lewis R. Jack, Amos B. Jesop, Richard R. Johnson, Roy C. Page 2 |
Johnson, Bodell Johnson, Ulla F. Jones, Hiram W. Jones, Lonnie H. Jones, Robert T. Kelly, Milton T. Kerr, H. T. Keysor, Jessie V. Kieser, Ed Kieser, Leo Kiger, Foster Kittle, Charley Koontz, Harry D. Lamb, Ray Leatherland, William Leathers, Carl Leathers, Howard Linder, Paul A. Locke, Robert T. Lofton, Frank S. Mann, John Marvel, Eldon Matchett, Harrison E. McCullam, David McCulley, Noal McCullough, Earl J. McKneelen, G. L. McNeely, Pierce Meeks, Cloyd R. Meritt, William C. Merritt, Joe E. Meyers, James H. Miller, C. E. Miller, Herbert T. Moody, Halbert Mossberger, George G. Mullinax, Arthur Musgrave, Charles B. Musgrave, Gilbert A. Newby, Harlan H. Newman, Fred A. Nixon, Wilse Obrecht, Ernest E. TOBield, Ora A. Osterman, Frank H. Padgett, Oral P. Palmer, Frank P. Parker, W. A. Peddicord, Uriah R. Phelps, Orville L. Pierson, F. L. Pitner, Harry L.
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Porter, Charles E. Powell, Marshall Price, Fred Puckett, M. L. Puckett, Mon A. Ralston, Charles E. Reeves, Charles E. Richinson, Frank D. Rigg, J. H. Robertson, John L. Ruble, Samuel C. Runyon, Sam *Schmitz, George L. Schofield, Orvil *Scott, Ellis Scott, Harry Scott, William G. Shackleford, Estel P. Shackleford, Marshall Shelton, Glen Shockley, John T. Shorb, Frank Simmons, Charles A. *Simpson, Herman G.
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Smysor, Lawrence Simpson, Wilburn Smith, Harry S. Smith, Jerd Smith, John Smith, Rolland Solomon, Jess E. Shoultz, George Spriggs, Pearl Stein, George C. *Stull, Ziba Talbert, James F. Tanney, Prank 0. Taylor, H. S. Taylor, Oliver H. Thacker, Arthur A. Tibbs, Samford Tice, Harry Tittle, Gilbert Toombs, Alfred Trotter, George Trotter, John A. Tubbs, Fred
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Tyier, Curtis Tyier, Harry L. Tyier, Roger E. VanPosson, Charles E. Vaughn, Hubert Vurdulas, John Walker, Alva Waller, William L. Waller, Lee Weaver, Garrett Weber, Elmer F. Wells, Edward Earl Wheat, James Whitacre, Cecil G. Whiteside, James G. Wilkerson, Oiney S. Williams, J. R. Wilson, Earl Wilson, George E. Wilson, Roy Winzenberger, Louis Wood, Homer A. Yates, Charles C. Young, John
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The American Legion, patriotic organization of veterans of World War One, was incorporated by an act of Congress in' 1919. Its purpose was to uphold the Constitution of the United States, to maintain law and order, to foster Americanism, preserve the memories and incidents of the war in general, to promote good citizenship. Any person who served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps of the United States during World War I, and later World War II, or who being a citizen of the United States, having served with the armed forces of any country associated with the United States in the wars is eligible
for membership, unless he refused to submit to military discipline or was dishonorably discharged. It is organized in departments and posts. There are some fifty-eight (58) departments and more than 1700 posts. Later, the charter was opened to the forces of the Korean police action. National headquarters ore at Indianapolis, Indiana.
Founded in France
The Legion was born in Paris, France on March 15-17, 1919 among solders of victorious American Expeditionary Forces which sprang from their desire to promote a future of the veteran, his widow and orphans. It was weaned in St. Louis, Mo. in May 1918 at an organization caucus of men from many units of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps of every state of the Union. It was baptized in the blood of martyrs at Centralia, Washington November 11, 1919. Four members of the newly formed 'Post, marching in the first Armistice Day Parade, were shot down in cold blood by a radical labor group incited by propaganda class hate, industrial workers of the world.
3 LEGION POSTS IN WAYNE
There are three American Legion Posts in Wayne County.
Fairfield, Anthony Wayne Post 176, was named for General Anthony Wayne who mode history in the 1700's. He started as a. land surveyor, was intimate friend of Benjamin Franklin. He received a commission of Brig. General and became a popular hero. Because of his reckless courage and daring attacks against the British forces he received the name of Mad Anthony. In 1792 he became commander-in-chief of the American army with rank of Major General. He was born in Easton, Pa., 1745 and died in 1796.
1962 Officers
Roy Scott, Commander; Kinneth Bradham, Sr. Vice Commander; James Curry, Jr. Vice Commander; Kellie Brown, Historian; Alien M. Baumann Adjutant; Trustees:, James Calvin, Jack Copeland, Elmer McKoy.
Anthony Wayne Charter Members
The Charter, signed in 1919, was sent to New York in 1920, but failed to remit fee for same. It was returned to State Headquarters in 1921. It was issued March 1922 and signed by William McCauly State Dept. Commander. Following is a list of charter members:
Hal K. Holt, Gilbert R. Flint, Raymond F. Brown, Leslie D. Beck Lewis Smith, H. A. Tolberd, James P. Jackson, Herman D. Bethel, John A. Holt, L. E. Sunderlond, Ben G. Boggs, W. G. Hort, Theodore L. Sleoth, Harry L., Pitner, J. G. Stonemetz, W. L. Montgomery, 0. D. Standerfer, A. I. (Bill) Steiner, Sr., F. L. Robertson, Roy Daubs, J. D. Vurdulas, Robley E. Felix,
Clarence S. Martin, Elmer E. Curry, Carter K. Black, Ross Gaddy, U. F. Johnson, Claud Mercer, G. F. Parkinson, W. E. Creighton, Ross Green, Glen Sunderland.
List of Past Commanders
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1919-L. Edwin Sunderland 1920-21—Junuis Kelley 1921-22—0. D. Standerfer 1922-23—William Pifer 1923-24—Thomas H. Creighton 1923-24—Henry Borah 1924-25—W. G. Hart 1925-26-27-28—Dr. G. A. McDonald 1928-29-30—Fred Morion 1930-31—Charles T. Hufford 1931-32—H. T. Ken- 1931-32—Fred Tubbs 1932-33—Robert Locke 1933-34——Dr. U. F. Johnson 1934-35—Oscar (Ped) Bonner 1935-36—W. L. Montgomery 1936-37—John Banner 1937-38—A. I. (Bill) Steiner 1938-39—Joe Merritt 1939-40—Frank L. Robertson 1940-41—George Schmidt
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1941-42—Leo McLeon 1942-43—Ralph Finley 1943-44—Henry Borah 1944-45— Blanchard Barnett 1945-46—Lawrence Hearn 1946-47—Charles A. Simmons 1947-48—Jerd V. Smith 1948-49—John Hedger 1949-50—Cecil Whitacre 1950-51—Charles Holstein 1951 -52—Deneen Matthews 1952-53—Leslie Horshborger 1953-54—Edgar Musgrave 1954-55—Vern Tickner 1955-56—Roy Lambert 1956-57—Jack Copeland 1957-58—0. S. (Moon) Dalton 1958-59—Harlan Block 1959-60—Raymond Finney 1960-61—Charles (Chuck) Veatch 1961-62—Roy Scott
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Past District Commanders
Jerd V. Smith, Hai-lon Block, Jock Copelond.
Golden Gate Charter Members
Golden Gate had a Legion Post but it later disbanded and the members transferred to Fairfield. Charter members of that post were: G. A. McDonald, Commander, G. C. Obrecht, Adjutant, Roy Johnson, Treasurer, Howard Woods, Ira L. Christy, Wm. Gill, G. C. French, Ben Crews Bryan Moore, Burton Ramsey, J. H. Smith, Glen F. 'Bullock, P. S. Burnagel Chas. Gray, Earl B. Sawyer, R. L. Gaither, Geo. Smelling.
Cisne James D. Gresham Post 603. Gresham was one of the first soldiers killed on France soil. Inscription on his grave reads, "Here lies the first soldier to fall on the soil of France, for liberty and justice. Corporal James D. Gresham of the 16th infantry killed on the night of Nov. 3, 1917, when a German raided part of the trenches near Bures occupied by Americans." Two other soldiers killed at the same time are also buried there.
Cisne Charter Members
Cisne Post 603 charter members:
George Mayo, Chas. Ray, Jr., Chas. L. Lane, Carl R. Crews, Ira E. Clutter, Cloyd Brown, Ralph L. Brach, Leslie McKneelen, Isham R. Simmons,
Ross Reid, Royal E. Kern, T. H. Puckett, Commander; Herb Daubs, Adjutant;
Ruben Barth, Vice Commander.
Charter issued March 22, 1948. Wayne City Post American Legion No, 1132.
Charter members:
H. 0. Anderson, Amon E. Frazier, George E. Draper, Lavern J. Feather, Glen Jackson, Edward H. Johnson, Lewis V. Leach, Alvin C. Manring, Donald McLean, James E. Melton, Leslie L. Staggs, Billy B. Seabolt, Earnest E. Richardson, James R. Webber, Lester L. Webber, Kenneth E. Wilkerson, Leonard M. Wood.
First Commander—Lyman Gurley; Adjutant and Finance Officer—Billy Seabolt.
Building Committee; H. H. Huff, Berlin E. Barnett, Robert E. Richardson, James E. Elliott, A. B. Clark.
The post purchased a plot of ground 82'/2 ft. by 180 ft. which adjoined Thomason cemetery from Fred Bruner and dedicated it as a veterans memorial addition to Thomason cemetery. Also on this plot of ground a monument of the upwright type with an eagle perched on top along with a 30 ft, flag pole. Any veteran con be buried in this memorial section with no charge for burial space.
The conflict of '17 and '18 saw five million Americans under arms. The conflict of '41-'45 saw more than 15 million Americans under arms. It was a question whether they would accept the American. Legion as their vehicle of veteran citizenship, or themselves form a new organization. They did both.
World War 1 Veterans (List of soldiers)
The summer of 1932 saw the Bonus Army headed by Walter W. Waters, of Oregon, march on Washington, D. C., striking camp there for the purpose of getting something done on a demand for a federal bonus. After all peaceful means were used to induce them to disband and go home, soldiers were ordered by the President of the United States, under General MacArthur, chief of staff commend, to move the bonus marchers out. A rolling barrage or bombs and tear gas was used. This thoroughly demoralized the bonus marchers, who were scattered all over the. city seeking shelter. Many of them were
injured. Reports showed 65 wounded and gassed and one killed. The Army was ordered out only after local police could not cope with moving the marchers out. The total included one veteran killed, 34 veterans wounded and gassed and 16 police injured. Among bystanders, 10 were injured, one killed and five wounded. Litter was strewn across Pennsylvania Avenue which looked like a real war had been fought.
On July 31st, Waters shouted new hope to the Bonus Expeditionary forces still left in the area, stating he had obtained a deed to a wooded tract of land in the hills of Maryland. This was some 20 acres in size. Mr. Waters said that those who wished could settle there with their families. The land was near Laurel, Md.,' near Washington, D. C. Walter (Tub) Atteberry, of Fairfield, marched with the Bonus Army.
Anthony Wayne Post 176
The Ladies Auxiliary of Anthony Wayne Post 176 was organized in June,1929.
List 1961-1962 Officers
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Marcle Scott, President Gloria Baumann, 1st Vice Phylis Shelton, 2nd Vice |
Alberta Garnbrel, Secretary Thelma Porter, Treasurer Mary Brown, Chaplain Pansie Simmons, Historian |
List Charter Members
Following is a list of charter members of the Auxiliary:
Margaret Flint, President; Madge Finley,
First Vice; Regino McLean,
Treasurer; Martha Book, Chaplain; Francis Labaw,
Second Vice; Elsie Roberts,
Publicity; Martha Lofton, Secretary;
Etta Davis, Sergeant at Arms.
Lidelice Anderson, Bessie Berg, Iva Banner, Mary C. Banner, Effie Boze, Lyndal Bunting, Leona Christy, Eula Clark, Lena dark, Mariam Corrie, Mureil Dickey, Fredia Emboden, Moe Ewald, Virginia Fleenor,. Anna French, Alta Goin, Mollie Haefele, Audra Harlan, Caroline Harman, Blanche Kelley, Alice Kerr, Gladys Koontz, Edna Mann, Edna Melrose, Laura Melrose, Eleanor Melrose, Bess L. Montgomery, Florence Morlan, Stella McLin, Blanch Nussboum, Corrine Osborn, Florence Perrine, Pansy Simmons, Pearl Smith, Edna Moxine Smith, Sadie Standerfer, Grace Steiner, Wanda Tate, Carlene French, Sarah Taylor, Nell Vurdulas, Pruda Withrow, Violet Venters, Gladys Bland, Eva Garrison, Laura Sutton, Laura Tubbs, Eva Forra, Melissa Forra, Glen Dye McNely, Caroline Johnson, Amy Barr.
Post Presidents Club — American Legion Auxiliary Post 176
Mrs. Pansie Simmons, Mrs. Mae Ewald, Mrs. Pearl Smith, Mrs. Hazel Black, Mrs. Lyndall Robertson, Mrs. Helen Hallam, Mrs. Ida Bell Gray, Mrs. Melba Fearn, Mrs. Doris Copeland, Mrs. Madge Finley, Mrs. Bertha Cline, Mrs. Bernice Thacker, Mrs. Etta Banner, Mrs. Grace Sager, Mrs. Mary Brown.
PAST PRESIDENTS — LEGION AUXILIARY
Alice Flint, adge Finley, Bernice Thacker, Mae Ewald, Pansie Simmons, Lyndall Robertson, Iva Bonner, Etta Banner, "Melba Lee Fearn, Moyme Stanley, Helen Hallam, VerI Sager, Ida Bell Gray, Bertha Cline, Hazel Block, *Nida Brown, Loretta Hoffee, *Doris Copeland, Mary Brown, Grace McMeen, Alberta Grambell, Macel Scott, Pearl Smith, Clara Amrin, Ellen Newton, Prudie Withrow, Veda Hawkins.* District Director.
Ladies Auxiliary Gresharm Post No. 603. Cisne
Charter issued June 30, 1933.
Members — Florence Schneider, President;
Agnes Daubs, Secretory;
Mable Borth, Treasurer;
Peorl. McKeelen, Alma Puckett, Flora B. Clutter, Susie Motchett, Lynn Kern/Mildred Lane, Gladys King, Moe Brown, Nellie Brach Helen May Brach, Fonnie Toylor.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars is a society of men who have served the country on active military duty overseas or in foreign territory. Founded In 1899
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was founded in 1899 with a membership of 250,000. The New York deportment was founded in 1921 with a membership of 25,000.
V.F.W. GIVE UP CHARTER
The Wayne County Chapter of V.F.W. was issued April 1, 1945. After a few years, the Post gave up its Charter and some of the members transferred to other Posts at Flora, Carmi, Mt. Carmel.
The Charter Members
The Charter members of this organization were: Harold Scheetz, Commander; Frank Haegele, Vice Commander; Alien. Hill, Jr. Vice Commander; William Wheeler, Adjutant; Jerome Hawkins, John W. Henson, Lewis R. Ivers, C. Guy Fearn, William J. Watson, Frank L. Keigley. Charles H. Craig, George 0. Eoton, Lawrence O'Leary, Edward D. Koontz, Emanuel E. Brown, Wayne Cox Fred Newton, Clinton R. Clinton, Jerd V. Smith, John L. Baskett, U. F. Johnson, Kellie Brown, Carl Owen Leathers, Edwind W. (Bill) Fronkel, Jesse E. Weedman, Olin W. Golden, Frank Whitlow, Leslie Winter Young.
ORGANIZE NATIONAL GUARD COMPANY
In June 1917 Captain William Nichols organized a Company of National Guard (Company M, 9, Illinois Infantry). They were to train in Springfield and later be mustered into federal service. However, the draft come too soon and took them one by one. They did encamp at Springfield for a period of about three months. Some 100 men signed up in Company M.
Officers Of The Guard
Officers of the Company were William Nichols, Captain; Fred dark, 2nd Lt.; Edwin Sunderland, 1st Lt.; James Downey, 2nd Lt.; H. L. Pitner, 1st Sgt.
Forty years ago in Wayne county a booklet was published giving a report of Wayne county's part in World War I. From that booklet came the idea of this book. Here now we quote from the old book giving a report of the Wayne County Draft Board, the Red Cross and other organization then. Following each is a later report on the work of these.—Editor.
The draft board was composed of the following members: J. R. Creighton, Chairman, D. C. Jordan, Sec., and W. C. Sibley, Medical Examiner. Quite a number of men enlisted in the Regular army at various training camps, before the draft board was formed.
First 5 per cent left for Camp Taylor, Ky., on August 30, 1917.
Second contingent of 74 men left for Camp Taylor, Thursday Sept. 20,1917.
Third contingent of 45 men left for Camp Taylor, Ky., Thursday October 4, 1917.
The men of the first three contingents went into Co. C., 326 Mc. G. Bn., 84th Div.
Eighty men left for Camp Taylor, Sunday Feb. 24, 1918.
Forty men left for Camp Dix, N. J., Sat. April 27, 1918.
Twenty-five men left for Jefferson Barracks, Mo., Thursday, May 21.
Sixty men left for Camp Shelby, Wis., on Thursday, May 28.
Twenty men left for Fort Thomas, Ky., Sunday, June 2.
The largest contingent to leave at one time was 200 men, who left June 26, 1918 for Camp Wheeler , Ga.
Many other small contingents left for the different camps or schools where they took up special military work and Wayne county was represented in practically every Div. From the 1st to the 91st, but there were more men in the 84th than any other, they being in all branches of the service of that Division.
Boys were always given a "rousing" send off, which proved to them that the "folks" back home were "for them" and greatly increased their work. Wayne County always over subscribed her Liberty Loon quota, Red Cross, Y. M. C. A., Salvation Army, etc. Had strong teams in the field for this purpose, which was headed by representative citizens in each township.
THE DRAFT BOARD
Local Board Members
Member Began Duty Ended Duty
Peter G. Rapp Oct. 1940 June 16, 1946
Guy Nicholson Oct. 1940 1941
Bill Steiner Oct. 1940 1947
Bert Norris Fall 1941 1949
Jerd V. Smith Aug. 23, 1943 . Currently serving (1964)
E. A. Mietzner . April 29, 1949 Currently serving (1964)
Luther G. Yates 1945 Currently serving (1964)
John Banner April 29, 1949 Jan. 19, 1953
Harry L. Pitner (2nd Assignment)-—Feb. 10, 1953 Currently serving (1964)
Rondall S. Quindry June 1951 March 8, 1955
William C. Shaeffer April 14, 1955 Nov. 15, 1956
Jock Copeland . March 6, 1957 Currently serving (1964)
Harry L. Pitner first assignment on Board of re-employment Aug. 20th,
1943. Re-appointed Feb. 10th, 1953.
Andy J. Milliard, George Edgar Simpson, Henry C. Sutherland, Ben Felix.
Selective Service Clerks
Mrs. Ruth Parker 1940 to Spring 1941
Mrs. Kelley Loy August 1940 to May 1947
Mrs. Joe Gualdoni February 1942 to September 1942
Mrs. Martha Lofton Jan. 15, 1944 to Oct. 11, 1946. Sept. 1, 1948 to Sept. 1, 1949
Mrs. Maud G. McDuffee July 1950, currently serving
Beulah Jones . 1942
Dorris Boroh Miller No dotes
Doctors Who Examined Locally
Dr. Milliard, Dr. Hancock, Dr. Blakely and Dr. Boggs.
Medical Advisors
Kenneth 0. Hubble—October 1st, 1948 ........................................ 1950
Leslie Young —October 17th, 1950 ………………............. January 24th, 1959
D. A. Gershenson — March 9th, 1959 ………………......... Currently serving (1964)
Appeal Agents
Charlie Creighton — 1940 ———————————————————... 1942
H. T. Kerr— December, 1942 -...........-—-.-.--.-——--. February 7th, 1957
John Burgess—September 19th, 1951 ———————— February 29th, 1952
Gerald Mayberry, appointed January 7th, 1952 -...-—— January 23rd, 1958
John C. Robison, March 6th, 1958 —.——————-——-— Currently serving (1964)
; :
Advisor To Registrants
Arthur W. Elliott — September 27th, 1948 ..—————————....—
Mary Ann Creighton — 1948 ———————————————————. 1957
Supplemental Registrars
Olen Baker
Robie Cravens — August 9th, 1957 .......-.———————— June 12th, 1961
James E. Wilson — July 31st, 1961 ———...———.—....... Currently serving
KOREAN CONFLICT
Wayne County Boys Inducted By Selective Service In Korean Conflict
According to the records of SSS Act 1948:
Those who served prior to June 25th, 1950 ………………………………... 57
Those who served between June 25, 1950 and July 27, 1953 …………… 665
Those who served after June 27, 1953……………………………………….590
AWARD CITATION TO BENNY ROUNTREE
The Citation awarded to Benjamin Charles Rountree was the Navy's second highest citation. It read:
"In grateful memory of Benjamin Charles Rountree, United States Marine Corps, who died in the service of his country on Palau Islands September 29th, 1944.
"He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might