Friends Give Soldier Party

The following article, clipped from the Aberdeen American and written by Frank Fiske of Fort Yates, gives an interesting account of a party in which Leonard Jones, wearer of the Purple Heart, tells of his experiences in North Africa.
"During a quiz feature of the evening's festivities, Leonard Jones explained the nature of his wounds, how they were received and displayed the piece of shrapnel that had laid him low, on the day before we observed Armistice only last November. He told of having enlisted in the army, in 1940, more than a year before Pearl Harbor; of his basic training experiences in camps located from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic; of his trip across to Africa and of his landing there.
"On the way over we expected to go into camp for some more training before being put into action," he said. "And there were a large number of transports protected by a convoy system of many submarines and warships, so we felt quite safe. We landed on an early Sunday morning, long before daylight and instead of resting up, went right into action, our objectives being to clear the way to Casablanca. We were advancing slowly wiping out machine gun nests with rifle fire and hand grenades when I got hit in the leg. I didn't think it was too bad and kept on going. Then as daylight came, the enemy found our positions and realized that the Americans had come, so it was time for the artillery to open up. I never thought I would see such bombardment as our ships put up."
"Lying in the harbor they opened up full broadsides that routed the enemy ahead of us. We now advanced more rapidly and soon came to heaps of German dead. My pal and I heard the scream of a shell coming and threw ourselves into a low place. I landed with my right arm stretched ahead of me, and that was when this piece of shrapnel struck at the elbow and passed down between the bones of the forearm. We got up and went on but my pal said: "You are bleeding alot-you had better quit." I now realized that I was about all in. My leg wound was pretty bad, and between the two I was losing a lot of blood. So I laid down beside the road and along in the afternoon was picked up by first aid men and carried back. Even as I was being carried, army doctors were tending to my wounds. I noticed that as soon as they got through with us they hurried to the front to meet more."
This is the simple story of Leonard Jones, wearer of the Purple Heart, and first Standing Rock hero of actual fighting in this war. His service is at an end as his wounds have left him badly disabled and it will be sometime before he can get around readily.
Taken from Corson County News January 7, 1943

Reported Missing in Action

Mrs. Oscar Locken of Grand Valley, received word from her parents, who reside at Portland Oregon to the effect that her brother, Sgt. Ed. Jensen was reported as missing in action. He was stationed at Bataan when that possession was lost to the Japs and Ed is now numbered among the prisoners of the enemy. Ed is a former Corson County boy, and it is hoped that it will be only a matter of a short time until he is liberated and that the Japs will be paid with compound interest for any discomforts they have caused him. A recent news release, not authentic, gave out information that the prisoners of war held by the Japs were being contacted by the Red Cross and that their welfare was being cared for in a better manner than at first. This information my be consoling to relatives and friends and Ed's many friends hope that his being treated in the best possible manner.
Taken from Corson County News Jan. 21., 1943

Five Sons Now in the Service

E.H. Halverson of south of Watauga, has certainly done his part in furnishing men for the armed forces, he has five sons in the service, and says if it was not for his age, he would attempt to follow the boys. Elmer Halverson has not been heard from for many months, and the ship he was aboard was reported as having been sunk, but Mr. Halverson has never had any word from the government that he has been listed among the missing. Elmer is the only one of the boys that took to the "water" and is a member of Uncle Sam's navy. Alfred, Bennie, Roscoe and Donald are in the army, the latter having enlisted just recently.
Taken from Corson County News January 28, 1943

Harold Writes from Africa

Dearest Mother, Dad and the Rest;
Well here I am in Africa, can you imagine. Yes! It seems more or less like a dream to me too. I wish you were here with me, and see some of the people and things that are here in Africa. We Americans can surely be thankful that we live in the good old U.S.A. after seeing some of the things we are seeing down here.
I imagine you are thinking about Hillard. Well, he is supposed to be down here to. Hard telling where he is now. He is probably a long ways from here now. Don't think I'll get to see him.
Are you writing lots of letters to me? I hope so. I might get them all at one time, but I really would enjoy getting a bunch of them.
We are enjoying some real spring weather down here. The grass and trees are all nice and green. It gets cold at night and warm in the daytime. The weather is like you would find in California.
I haven't been down town yet. The town, from a distance looks quite modern, but I guess it really isn't as modern as it looks.
As I sit here on the ground and write, I see an Arab going by riding on burrow and leading a camel. It is quite a thing to me.
I imagine it will take quite a while before you will get this letter. Can't write about much but will say, that I am in the best of health, and hope to be seeing you soon.
Your loving son Harold B. Gall
Taken from Corson County News March 11,1943

Letters From Our Boys

Dear Frank;
I now have a new address so thought I would drop you a line to let you know how I am faring. My address may appear a bit unusual for a soldier but that's where I am and our barracks are dormitories that were built within the past five years and so are absolutely modern. The bunks even are equipped with spring mattresses.
You see we, are at Iowa Teacher's on this so called army College training program; a program set up in view of having fewer washouts in aviation cadet training. The course is intended to last five months during which time we have regular classes in physics, mathematics, history, civil aeronautics regulation, geography, English and medical aid, also regular periods each day for military and physical training, plus eight to ten hours actual flying instruction. Of course we don't all get to spend five months in college because then when we did get out the pre flight schools would be so flooded that there would be a bottle neck and it would be worse than no college so some will get to be in college only about two months and so on so that after a time they will all get a five month stretch.
It is going to be hard work, but I haven't found one yet that doesn't love it, all we've seen so far is the Campus and that looks swell even under a couple of inches of snow.
By the way there are plenty of the fair sex around here this also happens to be a training center for the WAVES. I understand there are over 1000 of them here at least there is surely a lot of them I can guarantee that and there is also a large number of girls just attending College.
Sincerely, Herby J. Bakkehaug.
Taken from Corson County News March 18, 1942

Letter

Dear Frank,
Just a word to say Hello! and let you know my address has changed.
Being in the army funny things happen. The last three days I hit the jack pot, got 11 letters from Ireland and 22 from So. Dak. two of your papers were dated November and others Jan. and Feb. In January most of us got our Xmas gifts and cards. After reading your News I'm well caught up on the new and better conditions of South Dakota. "Nice to hear", even though it is a month late.
In regard to myself, I'm doing O.K. and see alot. Since New Year 1942, I have seen one half of the States, Ireland, Scotland and England; more than one water and two wonders of the world. While in Ireland, my uncle Marcus, told me about World War 1. "he went over the top five times, with out a scratch".
Now I land in Africa, change my old address and get a good job, which draws a corporals overseas pay. In fact, I like it better than any work I have done since I signed up. Out here a sergeant is one of the bunch and an officer talks to you like a man.
While in Africa I traveled a bit. Put 2000 miles on my vehicle in two weeks. Saw most of the towns you read about and ways of the African people. Hundreds don't have shoes and wear rags for clothes. The religious people "Moslem" wear white veils over their entire body, except one eye to see with. They all seem odd to us. The French are very nice and more like the Americans. Course they had it kind of tough the past couple years.
I ran across George McCarthy and Bob Brancel the other night and chewed the fat and exchanged all the news. They really look swell. None of us from McIntosh, has any worries. Haven't been without food yet; but its the same as we had last month.
Sincerely, T-5 George Campbell
Taken from Corson County News April 8, 1943

Corson County Boy Missing

James Cedar Boy received word from the War Department last week to the effect that his son, David Cedar Boy, was missing in action somewhere in the South Pacific. David has been in the service about two years and was in the army as a tank driver. He was a fine young man, and his many acquaintances and friends regret to learn of his misfortune, and trust that better news will come in the future.
Taken from Corson County News April 29, 1943

Corson County Goes Over

A report received Wednesday by County Chairman Stanley R. Voas which gave the good news that Corson County had gone over the top on the Bond drive with 119 percent and stood fourth in the counties of the state. This is a fine record and the people of Corson county are to be congratulated on their patriotic spirit and the workers who put so much effort forth to put it over are to be commended. The banks and post offices of the county, as well as many individuals worked hard to have Corson county recognized in the dive and their efforts are manifest by the results.
Taken from Corson County News April 29, 1943

Furlough is Extended

Don Nehl, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Nehl, of north of Watauga, was in the city last week end, visiting with friends. Don returned to the hospital in California for a check-up recently, and was given another thirty day furlough to come home to fully recuperate from injuries received in a naval battle in the South Pacific. Don has seen a lot of action in the navy since the beginning of the war, but is very modest about telling of his experiences. Since boyhood, Don has been an excellent swimmer, and he probably owes his life to the training he received in the Cedar river when he was a tot. He is a fine specimen of young manhood, and the rigors of war have not dampened his jovial spirit and his winsome smile.
Taken from Corson County News May 20, 1943

Poppy Day is Next Saturday

On Saturday, May 29th 15,000,000 red crepe paper poppies will appear on street corners in almost every city, town and village in the United States because members of the American Legion Auxiliary have "caught the torch" and are determined that those who have sacrificed their health and those who have died for their country shall not be forgotten nor their loved ones neglected. America must remember!
Regarding Poppy Day this year Mrs. Alfred J. Mathebat, National President of the American Legion Auxiliary, states: "Pick up a poppy. Look at it with your heart as well as your eyes. See how red are its petals-dyed afresh by the lifeblood of young Americans. See how it glistens-not from morning dew, but from freshly-fallen tears of mothers grief. And see how straight it holds its flashing head, waving a message of courage from those who have died so courageously."
"This is our poppy this year. That is the little flower entrusted to our hands to carry to the people of America. Did we ever have a greater trust? With our hands be strong enough, our hearts devoted enough?
"Each of us must answer for herself. The fallen heroes of a thousand battles are listening-heroes who have slept beneath the poppies for twenty-five years; those heroes whose lifeless eyes still stare at the sky today.
"On Poppy Day, we, the women of the American Legion Auxiliary, will carry to all America the undying messages of these dead-their last call to the living-the inspiring symbol of their heroism-the little red poppy which says: "If ye break faith with us who die, We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders Field."
Taken from Corson County News May 27, 1943

Keldron Boy is Killed

Friends will be grieved to learn that Staff Sergeant Richard Fish, son of Geo. Fish of Keldron was killed in action April 10 in the Southwest Pacific. He was a machine gunner in the Army air Corps and was stationed at New Guinea before his death.
The deceased was born January 21, 1912 thirty miles southeast of Lemmon and was 31 years old at the time of his demise. He attended high school in Lemmon and graduated with the class of 1929. Before entering the service in March, last year, he was engaged in farming in Idaho.
Those who survive him besides his father are four brothers, Charles of Keldron; Lloyd of Rapid City; Ted of Tocoma, Wash., and Robert of Moline Ill. His mother proceeded him in death in 1929.
Taken from Corson County News June 17, 1943

Army Life in the South Pacific

Our poetic Indian friend, Narcisse Eagle Chasing, who is somewhere in the South Pacific sends us another narrative regarding army life, in his own rollicking way:
Put this in the paper-every word is true. I'm sitting here and thinking of the things I've left behind, and I have put on paper what is running through my mind. We've dug a million ditches and cleared ten miles of ground. A meaner place this side of hell is waiting to be found. But there's one small consolation, Gather closely while I tell, when we die we'll go to heaven. For we've done our hitch in hell.
We've built a hundred kitchens for the cooks to stew our beans. We've stood a million guard mounts and we've never acted mean. We've rolled a million blanket rolls and washed the Captain's duds. We've washed a million mess kits and peeled a million spuds. The number of parade's we've stood is very hard to tell. But we'll not parade in heaven. For we've done our hitch in hell.
We've killed a million bugs that have crawled from out our eats. We've pulled some million centipedes from out our dirties sheets. And we have marched a million miles and made a million camps. The grub we've had to eat at times has given us the cramps. But when our work on earth is done, our friends behind will tell: "They surely went to heaven for they did their hitch in hell." when final taps is sounded and we're laid to rest we will do our last parade upon those shinning golden stairs. The angels all will welcome us and harps will start to play; we'll draw a million canteen check and spend them all one day. The Great Commanding Officer will smile on us and say; "Come, take the first seats gentlemen for you've done your bit in hell."
Taken from Corson County News June 17, 1943

Writes About War in Africa

Lester Schmeichel, McLaughlin young man who is serving in Africa writes a very interesting letter to the McLaughlin Messenger, and we reprint the letter as taken from that paper.
The news stories did not exaggerate about the number of prisoners and equipment taken in North Africa, but the Nazi is a tough soldier, says Lester Schmeichel, who was in the history-making battle of Tunisia and who writes the Messenger from that point this week. Cpl. Schmeichel in a most interesting letter says;
"The farmers over here have already started harvesting which seems quite different than in the States, where they have just finished seeding. They do it the hard way over here.
"Now that Uncle Sam has lifted a few of the censorship restrictions, I can tell you when I left the States and where I landed. We left Dec. 12, 1942 and landed on the Atlantic coast of Morocco on Christmas Eve. The trip coming over was quite interesting, although a great number did get sick, but the evenings were beautiful on deck, where I spent most of my time. The moon was quite bright and the waves were high and really the trip was getting a little tiresome until one morning we spotted land. The boys could hardly wait to set foot on foreign soil. The country was quite different than we had been used to. The next day was a blue one for everyone as we were all tired and no Christmas dinner.
"Some of the towns are very beautiful and the ways of living are so different. Much of the soil is very rich but is used mostly for grazing. I've often wished I could speak the language.
"The letters I wrote were from French Morocco, later we crossed Morocco and entered Algeria. I got into Oran once and believe it or not, they have street cars although not like ours. I went swimming in the Mediterranean which I never believed I would do. It's still as dark blue as I used to read about back in my school days.
"When things were really getting hot in Tunisia we moved in the back door and the first Germans we saw were either dead or prisoners, that is as much as I can say. But there is one sure sign that things have changed, its the style now to sport a Jerry helmet on the radiator of your truck or jeep. These helmets are squarish box-like affairs that make our round tin pots look like stream lined bonnets. It's a sight to see a mud spattered G-I truck roll down the road a cloud of dust trailing behind and a Nazi helmet leading the way. Most of our trucks have acquired names. British drivers go for sentimental names reminding them of girls back home but the G-I drivers prefer monikers like "Buck Rogers, Hitler's Hearse, etc.
"The newspapers stories about all the prisoners in Tunisia didn't exaggerate nor did the stories of how they clogged the roads. It's true that many of the prisoners drove themselves to the big stockade and its true that many of them did not seem unhappy about the deal. Many, especially the Italians were smiling and singing.
"At last the fellows are getting a look at some of the German equipment and again the newspapers were right when they said the Nazis left a big pile of it behind them. Of all the guys, I guess the fellows in the radio section are most pleased because the Jerrys certainly know how to build a radio. We've heard and read a lot about the Germans but there isn't a soldier in Africa who doesn't respect them as mighty tough customers.
"With the Nazis out of Africa and the war one step nearer completion, I can dream more and more of the day when I'll be walking down the streets of McLaughlin.
Taken from Corson County News July 8, 1943

Former McIntosh Girl is R.C. Nurse

Dear Mr. Scott and all:
They've finally dropped us off in one spot long enough for us to get an address so I'm taking some time to write a few lines your way.
Right now they have us stationed out on the desert, sort of marking time for something more important. Needless to say, we are having ourselves a time. Had very little time to prepare for the trip out here; they rushed us out so fast. We number 40 nurses in this camp so it is a complete unit.
Got out here last Friday after half the dust of Arizona had settled on us-sure fun to see someone turn grey overnight so to speak, but it wasn't anything that wouldn't come out in the wash.
Living conditions are very rugged but as comfortable as anyone can make us. Our quarters are tents, dirt floor, and for beds we have the regulation army cots. Out here bedding isn't needed, so one blanket for under and one left for cool hours of early morning are all that is needed. We could get kerosene lanterns but there isn't anything to do except eat, sleep and keep cool, so we generally retire early.
There is even a shower rigged up run by an engine. Very nice in the evenings. The water is in a canvas reservoir and it heats up by the time we get to it.
The eats are good. You'd be surprised just how good some of those boys are at making a good meal out of little or nothing. Have all the cool drinks we want for between meals anyway, so we feel like we are sitting on top of the world in this Army.
Looks like we'll be sent across sometime in the near future but don't have the faintest idea when or even where.
As Ever, Hope Lone,
Taken from Corson County News July 8, 1943

Emmet Takes on "Tonnage" in the U.S. Navy

Dear Frank:
I received your paper today and in it the article concerning the death of my brother Harry. I had received word before this but not in detail. You know, it seems that it has been nothing but a dream to me as I can hardly believe it. It was on the 14th of May that I received the message by way of radio dispatch. I'm not sure but I think that the message came through the Red Cross. I was very unfortunate not being able to attend the last rites with him but you know as well as I do who we can thank for that.
I enjoy my work very much and hope to make Aviation Machinist 3rd in the near future. I have had a few hops with our pilots and would surely like to learn to fly.
About three months ago I had the pleasure of visiting with Chief Yeoman Waldon Nehl. I'm sure everyone around home there knows him very well and at the time I saw him he was in good health and was looking fine, but in my last letter from my mother, she stated that he had been wounded. It was certainly too bad about him as that is one of the sacrifices we have to give.
Well, the Navy is really fattening me up as I have gained nearly 25 pounds since I joined. We get plenty of good food to eat. We frequently get ham and eggs, pork, beef and chicken on the menu on Sundays.
Respectfully, Emmet L. Jensen
Taken from Corson County News July 8, 1943

Back from War Front

Roman KoPel recently returned from the hospital in California, where he was confined for several weeks, and has now received his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. Roman was the victim of a Jap bullet in the South Pacific and as a result is minus his right hand. Like many of the boys coming back from the fighting fronts, Roman does not care to talk of his experiences and evades any questions in regard to his misfortune. Roman is a fine young man and an example of the many thousands of young men who are on the fighting fronts, willing and ready to make the sacrifice of limb or life for their country, and with never a complaint.
There is no honor too high or too much respect that we can give these boys, and when they come home maimed for life, we in the civil life should realize how little we are giving in the war effort.
Taken from Corson County News July 8, 1943

Miss Lang Now in Australia

Dearest Mother, Dad and girls;
Here I am safely in Australia. The entire ocean voyage was very pleasant in a way I hated to get off the ship. But I must confess that it gave one a grand and glorious feeling to see land again. There was a great deal of excitement the day we landed. Foreign land seems quite strange to us. However, these Australians speak English, there is a certain twang to it that makes it very hard to understand. But we are gradually becoming used to it. And the money is a problem-you see they use pounds, and shilling and pence. I think we get jipped once in awhile.
Food is cheap and cloths are rationed. You have to have a coupon to even buy a wash cloth. But food is not rationed with the exception of butter and sugar.
We are living at a camp where there are only nurses. We are living in tents for the time being. There are seventeen in my tent. We sleep on cots and there is a stove in the center. We have cold showers, in other words we are roughing it. We wash in our helmets and heat the water on the stove in a pail and use flat irons for ironing. I haven't any idea how long we'll be here. But we are not working yet.
Now that I'm overseas I get a 10 percent increase in pay. Hoping that I'll be able to save a few dollars while I'm on a foreign duty and perhaps I can do some traveling after this war is over.
All my love, Lillian Lang
Taken from Corson County News July 15, 1943

Report Local Boy Missing

The horrors of war were brought closer to home this week, Mr. and Mrs. Francis Lofgren, received a telegram from the War Department, informing them that their son, Sgt. Harry Lofgren, was missing in action after a trip over Kiel, Germany, July 29th. The War Department informed the parents that they would be informed of any further news they heard of their son.
Sgt. Lofgren had been in the service a little more than a year and advanced to the rating of Sergeant and was a tail end gunner in one of the U.S. Bomber planes. He received his preliminary training in Colorado, and was shipped to England a few months ago, according to a letter received recently by his parents. He was inducted into the service from Corson County and left with the April 1942 contingent of draftees, and after his basic training, volunteered as a gunner.
Taken From Corson County News August 12, 1943

Emmet in Four Major Actions

Emmett Jenson arrived for a twenty-five day leave from the navy and will visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Jensen. Emmet joined the navy last September a year ago and the latter part of November he received his baptism of fire from enemy guns fighting in the South Pacific and in his year of service has taken part in four major engagements and wears the four stars, signifying the fact. Emmet is very modest about telling of the actions, and says there are many other conversations that are more pleasant to the ear. He left the Stares the first part of last November and when he arrived in San Fransisco last week was the first time he had his feet on the good old U.S. soil since he sailed, and Emmet said it was a grand and glorious feeling. He looks in excellent heath and says he feels fine, but he would just as soon be in Corson county as any place he knows of.
Taken from Corson County News September 16, 1943

Geo. McCarthy Now in Africa

Dear Mr. Cook;
Received your nice "V" mail letter today and was more than happy to hear from you. I always look forward to your letters, as you always have some news of the people at home and it helps a lot to know how you are all getting along.
I wrote home some time ago for Tweet Watson's address as I had heard that he was here in Africa and much to my surprise, I found that I was quite near to him-in fact only a few miles so Bob Brancel and I went to see him. He is working in a hospital. I can assure you he was really surprised; we had quite a visit talking over the past and wondering where different one of the boys of our acquaintance are located.
If you see Mrs. Watson, tell her that Ernie is enjoying good health and looking fine also that he is working pretty steady.
Your having mentioned the hunting season has caused me to wish I were home; have been thinking about it myself and wishing I might sit down to a nice roast duck or pheasant dinner. Am sure that if Junior Olson and I could be there we would get our share as we used to do and am hoping that we may get together-in the air and on the ground and hunt something beside Nazi's and live over again the good times we had hunting together but that's wishful thinking and is out for the duration. Am glad for Junior's success as a Pilot and hope when he comes across that he will come this way.
In Mother's last letter she spoke of Harry Lofgren and am hoping he is a prisoner rather than a casualty; however that's one of the things which "the fortunes of war, will continue to bring to many people and is to be expected.
Sincerely George McCarthy
Taken from Corson County News September 16, 1943

War Department Reports Local Boy Killed in Action

The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Francis Lofgren and family mourn with them in the sad news they received from the War Department stating that their son, Staff Sergeant Harry W. Lofgren, is now reported as having been killed in action. The telegram, read in part, "report received from the German government through the International Red Cross states that your son Staff Sergeant Harry W. Lofgren, who was reported missing in action July 29th, was killed in action in the European area.
The parents had received a message several weeks ago, stating that their son was listed as missing is action, but high hopes was held that he was a prisoner of war until the sad news was received this week. Harry was a tail gunner on one of the large flying fortresses of the Untied States Air Corp, and arrived in England early this spring, and soon after arrival, evidently went into active service, as the news of his missing was received soon after word was received here of his arrival there. The news of his death is a sad shock to the parents as well as the entire community.
Harry was born and reared in the McIntosh vicinity and was an outstanding young man. He entered the service about two years ago, and volunteered for bomber services as a gunner. He was game, and the hazard part of the service he chose, is only an indication of his willingness to share his part of the burden of the terrible conflict, and all that can be hoped, that he did not give his life in vain. Harry's untimely death brings the horrors of war closer to home, and any solace to be found is that he died for his country, a hero that he was.
Taken from Corson County News October 14, 1943

Bill Flyinghorse Tells Insect Story

The following letter was recently received by the News editor for P.F.C. Wm. Flyinghorse who is Somewhere in the South Pacific.
Dear Frank;
You ought to see me in my shanty on the rise, with the great mosquitoes buzzing and the hordes of ants and flies. You should see the snakes and scorpions, and the centipedes and bugs; and they're not brought on by drinking from old black quart pot mugs; we've seen these things in Australia in the good old driving days, and they often looked much bigger gazing through drunken haze, all these monsters in New Guniea were a curse and pest at first, they are now commercialized by army, so the jap can do his worst, you couldn't kill these mossies if our uses a bullock yoke so they use them now as bombers when they're properly tamed and broke. The ants are much more docile, rather sluggish for a hack, but they used a mob as pack mules on the Owen Stanley track. the flies are rather flighty and they take some breaking in, but send them after zeros and the flies will always win. The snakes are used by sappers on the flooded river ground, they use them there as bridges for the soldiers northward bound. The scorpions Frank, are stream-lined, they're bullet proof as well, they carry eighteen pounders and they blow the japs to hell. How to get stores over the mountains, had the "big shots" at a loss, till they used the mighty centipede to tow the stores across. The bugs are a handy scout car and he very seldom jibs but a soldier must be careful when he touch him or he'll kick him in the ribs. The rats are wild and snorty like that blooming roan horse you bought, but the "fuzzy wuzzis" ride'em to deliver "Guinea Gold." The fire flies are whoppers and their lamps are very bright in fact they make good search lights when the zeros come at night. Now old Pal, I'll end my letter greet all my friends for me, my eyes are getting dim-for this Jungle juice is mighty Hooray, Frank.
Your old Pal, Bill
Taken from Corson County News October 21, 1943

Keldron Man Presented Medal for Son's Deeds

Symbol of supreme sacrifice was the air medal presented postumously to George Fish of Keldron, father of Staff Sergeant Richard H. Fish of Keldron who was killed in action over New Guinea April 10 last. In making the presentation Lt. Mark H. Webb of the Rapid City Air Base praised the courage and the record of the Lemmon high school alumnus who had more than 100 hours of flying to his credit when he was shot out of the skies. Lt. Webb dwelt upon the spirit of sacrifice in his brief talk. He called it fitting that the presentation should be made at the Lemmon high school homecoming. Mr. Fish with son Charles and his grandchildren, had a prominent place on the stage. Proceeding the ceremony Kenneth Morris, supervisor of music, played several musical selections.
When the air medal was received at the Rapid City Air Base, Lt. Webb called Mr. Fish and invited him to come to Rapid City so that the medal might be presented with military honors. When Mr. Fish was unable to make the trip, Lt. Webb called him and made arrangements to meet the father here that he might receive the recognition of a grateful nation for the courage and sacrifice of his son.
Taken from Corson County News October 28, 1943

Meets Former McIntosh Boy in Navy Hospital

In a letter from Hartley Scott, Pharmacist mate, who is stationed at Portsmouth, Va., he said he had met his first acquaintance from South Dakota since he has been in the service and it was in the person of Ensign Wallace Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.A.G. Smith former residents of McIntosh. While working in an information bureau at the Norfolk Naval hospital, a boy on crutches came through the office on his way out, and when Hartley assisted him through the doors, he thought he recognized him and inquired if he were not Wally Smith. It was a grand and glorious meeting, both boys having attended the McIntosh school at about the same time, and they had a nice visit together. Wallace had been wounded in the leg and was back on sick leave at the hospital for treatment. Through Wallace, Hartley also learned that Clifford Whitmore, also a former McIntosh boy, was stationed at a Norfolk Air field and is going to look him up.
Taken from Corson County News October 28, 1943

Thanks R.C. for Package

The following letter was received by Mrs. John Beier, production chairman of Corson County Red Cross;
The Corson County American Red Cross:
This short letter is to tell you that one of the bags made up by your chapter was given me just before the ship leaving to my "overseas" destination. Let me say that it was a most pleasant surprise. I've read my book, and several more I've swapped for. My wife gave me a large sewing kit but another is a nice thing to have.
Especially useful is the bag itself. Oh yes, the soap and soap box were very timely and the "smokes" I swapped for candy. So again, thank you so much, for the very nice gift. It does help out to feel the friendly spirit behind it. Sincerely, John R. Hightower, Atlanta Georgia.

Receives Purple Heart for Son

Mr. and Mrs. Francis Lofgren received the Purple Heart Medal from the War Department, which was awarded to their son, Harry, who was reported as missing in action over Germany a couple of months ago. This award is presented for bravery in action, and is awarded to the parents when the son is reported as missing in action. It is awarded as a great compliment and is an indication that the soldier who merits the award demonstrated more than ordinary heroism in line of duty. Sgt. Harry Lofgren was a tail gunner in one of the U.S. bombers and to those who knew Harry are confident that he would give his all without fear of his own safety.
Taken from Corson County News November 18, 1943

Cecil Lang With U.S. forces Now in Italy

Following is a letter received this week from Sgt. Cecil Lang, a former Watauga resident who is now serving with Uncle Sam's forces in Italy;
Dear Sir;
Just a few lines to let you all know I sure do enjoy the paper, even though it is very irregular and comes one on time and than an old one. Even then I do sure enjoy reading them as there is more news in one than one writes.
I have now been stationed in Italy. After seeing Africa and England so far to date I don't care about living in any of the three.
Things are so odd over here. People live in valleys; their labor is done by hand. With pick and shovel or hoe. Traveling is mostly done with bicycle or on foot. Every time we go on the road, you can just about move for pedestrians along the road. Yours truly, Cecil Lang
Taken from Corson County News November 18, 1943

Jim Nesbitt is Found Dead

James S. Nesbitt, famous rodeo performer, was found dead Saturday in the burning home of his former wife, who with him, had appeared in all major rodeos in the United States the last 20 years.
Dr. Kieffer Davis testified at an inquest that Nesbitt died of suffocation but the coroner's jury recessed without returning a verdict.
Mrs. Miles Rider, Nesbitt's former wife was reported to be in Oklahoma city.
Sheriff Arthur Turner said T.L. Rider, father-in-law of Mrs. Rider, told him Nesbitt appeared at the house Friday night and ordered him out. Nesbitt, a member of the Navy's Seabees was divorced by his wife after he joined the service. Nesbitt is a former McLaughlin boy and grew to manhood in that vicinity and started his bronco riding on the reservation.
Taken from Corson County News November 18, 1943

Joe Little Crow "Crowing" in Camp

Joe Little Crow who is well known in this vicinity for his ability as a baseball, basketball player and who is now serving in the U.S. army and located near Los Angeles, California is making good as a soldier. Through the kindness of Pete Mattern, who is in the same company with Little Crow, makes it possible for us to reprint the following article, clipped from the Journal, published by the 95th Infantry Division;
Joe Little Crow's the name and as a color packed personality he beats the script.
Military, he's Pfc. Joe Little Crow, scout and observer of 3rd Battalion Headquarters, 377th Infantry. but that represents only a fraction of his many facets.
A full-blooded Sioux Indian from Fort Yates whose heritage makes him a natural for his soldier assignment, Little Crow's background is brightened by a college education, all-around athletic ability, an excellent singing voice.
Joe's ever ease manner seems to shed the formality of military rank and his tribal name belies a highly civilized product of the Standing Rock Reservation, North Dakota. Little Crow attended Northern State Teachers College, Aberdeen, S.D. prior to entering the army and hopes to return to complete his education after the war, Private Little Crow majored in social science.
Joe participated in all sports at school, his favorite being basketball, baseball and track. True to Indian tradition he proved a natural athlete, a basketball guard, ball pitcher-outfielder and track sprinter. Little Crow carried over to boost the 377th sports teams. He admits to running the 100 in 10 seconds flat on one occasion, but laughingly declares that added army weight would make 11 flat a tough standard.
Joe's civilian ambition is to enter Indian Service, specializing as teacher-coach and working among the Sioux people. In addition to working his way through college, Little Crow served on the clerical staff of the Fort Yates agency.
Despite a tendency to course through army rank like an elevator, Little Crow has been invaluable in scouting and observation. He vindicates the program of Indian education, is one of the 95th Division's outstanding scouts whose talents will be heavily dawn upon in combat.
Taken from Corson county News December 2, 1943

Grand Valley Boy Reported Missing in South Pacific

Buell F. Payne, brother of Mrs. Harry Montgomery is reported as missing in action since September 6, 1943 in a flight in the South Pacific. Buell resided in the vicinity of Grand Valley about eight years and graduated from the Lemmon High School with the class of 1936. He served in the Hawaiian Islands for two and a half years with the National Guard, and transferred to the air corp and was commissioned a Flight Officer last June, taking his training at Phoenix, Arizona and at air bases in California.
Buell is the son of Mrs R.F. Payne, a former resident of Grand Valley, and was an outstanding young man, pleasant and courteous and held in the highest esteem by every acquaintance.
Following is a letter received by Mrs. Payne, and mailed here to her daughter, Mrs. Montgomery, from the Flight Officer who was with Buell when his ship was downed.
My Dear Mrs. Payne;
I am writing this letter at the request of Lieutenant Colonel Woodrow B. Wilmot my commanding officer, as I was on the flight from which our son is reported missing.
"Boo" that is what we called him, was flying on my wing. We took off about 10:30 on September 6th and flew about 160 miles where we rendezvoused with the bombers of the flight. From there we went on to our combat mission, and just as it was completed we were jumped by Japanese planes. We were outnumbered about 4 to 1. and became split up during the ensuing fight. I saw Boo several times during the fight, and he was making a good accounting of himself. My plane became badly shot up, one gasoline tank destroyed and I had to make a run for the nearest field with a Jap plane on my tail. No one saw Boo go down, but as he did not return to his home field, he was reported missing in action.
Boo's loss is a great one to both his squadron and to myself. We went clear through pre-flight and flying school together and were very close friends. Sincerely John R. Workman
Taken from Corson County News December 2, 1943

Fourteen Months in Alaska

James Byington came up from McLaughlin and spent a couple hours in the city, visiting with friends. Jim has spent the past fourteen months in Alaska with the U.S. armed forces, and has been transferred back to the United States and will now be located at Fort Lewis, Washington after a twenty day furlough, which he will spend in this vicinity and with his mother at Piedmont, in the Black Hills. Jim has gained considerable weight and looks like a million, and says he never felt better. Jim was one of the best printers and linotype operators in the west river country when he joined the army and he will undoubtedly make Uncle Sam as good a soldier. He was employed on the News for several years and when he left for the army was employed on the McLaughlin Messenger.
Taken from Corson County News December 9, 1943
0000