The thrilling story of his rescue from enemy territory, after his plane had been forced down, is related by Ensign Leo Nolz, in a letter received Saturday by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Nolz.  Ensign Nolz, a graduate of the Miller high school, took his training as an aviation cadet at Pensacola, Fla.  He was home on leave in October, just before he was assigned to duty in the Pacific area:

February 18, 1944

Dear Folks:
I just got back from an experience I never want to go through again.  Last Monday I was forced down over enemy territory and cound now be a Jap prisoner as well as not.  I don't think there were any Japs there, at least they didn't bother me and I'm sure if there had been any there they sure would have gotten me.  I spent four days on the island before being rescued.  Well, I can say I was just plenty lucky.  I don't think I've prayed so much in my life as I did during that time.  Last night was the first night I've had a good rest since last Sunday night.

I got awful sunburned and a few bad scratches on my hands.  Outside of that I'm O.K.  I'm not back to my ship yet, but hope to be soon.  They're taking very good care of me here, giving me clothing and money and a real nice room to sleep in, so I'll get along alright now.  It was a terrible experience and one I shall never forget.  I had very little food and water, just enough to get along on.  Ate a lot of cocoanuts and drank cocoanut juice which helped to satisfy my thirst.

We got our first mail last Sunday and I was glad to hear from you again.  Also heard from Paul, Betty and Mary.  Anyway all together I got 26 letters.  It sure seemed good after not having any mail for so long.  Thanks ever so much for sending my watch to Irene.  I'm glad you are putting my money in a savings account.  I don't think I'd get more than 2 per cent, but that's alright.  It probably won't be there very long anyway if I get back soon, which I hope.  I ought to get a survivors leave out of this deal.

Well, I guess this will be all, as the mail is going out soon.  Tell Mary and Betty I'll write them soon, but just don't have time this morning.  I just happened to be lucky to get a letter in the mail.  I'm fine and healthy now, so don't worry about me.

Love to all.
Leo Nolz
 
 

************************

 

Missing in Action -- Lt. Leo Nolz Flier

Lt. Leo Nolz Navy Pilot in the Pacific area is reported missing in action according to advice received from the Navy Department Monday by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Frank Nolz of Campbell township.  His early training in flying was in the V-5 course at Iowa.  In the Service nearly three years, Lt. Nolz was last known to be flying an observation plane from a battleship.  A brother, Paul Nolz, three years in the Marines in the Pacific fighting is now home on furlough.