Recent News from the 101st Airborne Division Association Website

May 5, 2008

 

Want to know who's registered for the annual reunion in Reno this August?

 

Reunion Attendees (updated weekly)

 

May 2, 2008

 

Larry

 

Please post the following to the website.

 

Thanks,

 

Joe R Alexander

 

 


From: Joe Alexander [mailto:joe@offroadeq.com]
Sent: Friday, May 02, 2008 5:17 PM
To: Sam Bass (101 ExSecTrea); Catie Rodriquez (Asst Editor Screaming Eagle Magazine
Subject: Charlie Gant and Ron Gillette

 

To All,

 

I received from Johnny Velasquez a phone call and the following email concerning Ron Gillette’s heart attack while he was driving a Recreational Vehicle with Marsha to Oregon.

 

Thank goodness, Ron timely sought and received medical aid. 

 

Also, Johnny mentioned that Charlie Gant was recovering at home from recent surgery. 

 

Both are key players of the 502nd as well as the 101st Airborne Division Association.  

 

Charlie and Ron, get well quick because we need your leadership.

 

Please keep Charlie, and Ron and Marsha in your prayers and thoughts.

 

 

 

Joe R Alexander, President

101st Airborne Division Association

 


From: eagl4evr@comcast.net [mailto:eagl4evr@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, May 02, 2008 9:32 AM
To: Charlie Gant; Larry & Debera Frazier; Sam Bass; Joe & Rikki Alexander
Subject: Ron Gillette

 

All,

I spoke to Ron last night and he is recovering very well, and he will be home sometime today. The doctors wants him to have complete rest for a while.

 

His story was that he and Marsha were on their way to Oregon for two weeks of fishing and camping in their RV trailer. Last Friday as they leaving home, he felt some pain in his chest but it was small. As he drove the pain got worse, and his left arm became numb. He saw a sign telling him a hospital was 12 miles away, he he drove to it. There at the emergency room, the doctors determined that he was having a heart attack, and a decision was made to have him flown to San Francisco for treatment. He flew in one of those medical planes equipped with two nurses.

The diagnosis was that one of his Arteries was approx. 99% blocked, but that his heart was fine. Everything was done, and he is doing fine and expected to make a full recovery.

Getting a phone call from Marsha yesterday was very shocking for me to say the least, but thank God he will survive.

Send him a card, as I'm sure he will appreciate that, and you can call me if you want any further update.

Thanks to those who have called.

 

As a footnote, and not too be lost, we had another 502nd man now recovering from surgery and he too is now home recovering. Charlie Gant was in the hospital with a kidney problem, but is doing well but in a lot of pain right now.

 

Johnny

 

April 17, 2008

 

Visit the  Reunion Notes Page to read about recent additions (the entire schedule, tours, unit dinners, and links to the attending unit functions).  This looks to be a large reunion with many units attending.

 

April 7, 2008

 

The following was written by Robert Scarbrough a couple of years ago.  Robert was a great "Phoenix" pilot (C/158th Avn Bn, Camp Evans, RVN) and a guy I feel fortunate to call a good friend and fellow vet.  Guys like this made sure many of us got home!

 

ANOTHER CLOSE CALL
 by
 Robert C. Scarbrough
 Phoenix 54
 Copyright 2006 , all rights reserved


 Phoenix drew ash and trash this month, doing single ship re-supply,
 while the Lancers and Kingsmen are getting their ass's kicked on
 combat support in the ASHAU.  I am heading west with C-rations and
 ammo. Ina-Goda-Da-Vida plays in my head while I have sex with the most
 gorgeous red-head you have ever seen, it's really a great day.

 Peter pilot calls for smoke spoiling the daydream, goofy-grape, we've
 got a single ship hover hole just south of Rendezvous. I've got it,
 Peter pilot hands over the controls and lights up.
 At the bottom of the hole l hover for a moment letting the smoke
 clear. Clear left ,clear right, we set down to unload.

 While sitting there getting rid of our load, l notice that something
 is different today. Nothing is the right color, peter pilot is my
 best friend, but l don't know his name. Our rotors are turning
 furiously, but there is no sound, odd like the twilight during an
 eclipse, or an aura just before a migrane.

 We're unloaded and ready to back-haul some grunts, as they start to
 climb in l realize l know all of them, Las Hermes, Forsythe, Herndon,
 Swanson, Eggelston, Arnette and Manes. 
(all Phoenix KIA)

 They get in, chicken plates on and helmets in their  lap, They give me
 the thumbs up which I return, turning around, I get to the business
 of taking off.
 I twist the throttle up, Rotor, Nl, Egt all in the green, Clear left,
 clear right.

 An explosion throws up dirt and fire at two-o'clock, then another....
 they're walking mortars in....l pull pitch but the collective won't
 move.  I pull harder ....It comes out of the floor in my hand dangling
 wire and cable like a newly severed limb. I am horrified.  At twelve-
 o'clock to see a short silhouette, he aims an RPG, I see his soul as
 he pulls the trigger. The grenade comes in slow-motion, heading
 straight at me, the rotors turn like the second hand on a wind up
 watch, tic....tic....tic.

 The grenade pushes through the windshield sending plastic shards
 everywhere.
 l raise my hand to my face as though it will help. The grenade
 explodes in my face.... I scream.

 My wife, turns over to comfort me: "dreaming again Robert....the war
 is over, go back to sleep".

 Back to sleep my ass! Drenched with sweat, wide awake and a little
 shaky, I totter downstairs for the liquor cabinet. Pouring a double,
 me and Jack Daniels share the darkness with few Valium.  In a few
 minutes I drift off, it was just another close call, like so many
 others.

 The war's been over for twenty-five years now, all my passengers have
 been dead that long. "But if I could have only taken off [I could
 have gotten them out], Well......there is always tomorrow night!


 Faithfully yours,

Robert Scarbrough
 
robertcscarbrough@comcast.net

 

Drop Robert an e-mail and encourage him to write more!   L. Frazier
 

April 4, 2008

 

Forwarded from Bruce Pierce -

 

"A veteran - whether active duty, retired, or national guard or reserve - is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to "The United States of America", for an amount of "up to and including my life." That is an honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it. -- Author unknown"

 

March 31, 2008

 

Subject: Funeral Services for Doc Feliciano

James "Doc" Feliciano in VN


 
James 'Doc' Feliciano died Sunday morning, March 30, 2008 at home in Liverpool, NY.  His wife Bernie said he was sitting in his recliner and was resting comfortably when he passed away in his sleep about 2:30 a.m.  Doc, born May 19, 1948, in Utica, NY, would have been 60 years old on his next birthday.
 
Visitation will be at the Farone & Son Funeral Home, 1500 Park St., Syracuse, NY 13208 on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 from 4 to 7 p.m.  Phone: (315) 422-1911
 
Mass is Wednesday, April 2, 2008 at the Emmaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 259 East Onondaga St., Syracuse, NY 13202 beginning at 9:30 a.m.  Phone: (315) 422-4177
 
In lieu of flowers, Bernie requests donations honoring Doc be made to the 101st Airborne Division Vietnam Veterans organization, PO Box 7150, Sumter, SC 29150-1001. 
 
In my discussion with Bernie I asked her if she would mind if contributors made donations to the 1/502 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and she agreed that was OK.  Doc was a committee member for this memorial fund and had been raising funds for several years to erect a monument to those of the 1/502 who made the supreme sacrifice in Vietnam.  If you would like to donate to the memorial fund, please use the following information:
Make donations payable to the 1/502 VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL FUND and mail to:
Memorial Fund
Attn: Wally Morrow
W 5527 Rustic Lane
Appleton, WI 54915-9393

Contributions to 1/502 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and/or to 101st Airborne Division Vietnam Veterans are tax deductible in accordance with IRS Code 501(c)(3).

Bernie also wanted to know if anyone from the 101st who was planning to attend services wanted to serve as a pallbearer.  Anyone attending on Wednesday willing to serve in this capacity, please let me know as soon as possible.

Doc is survived by his wife Bernie and five children; Jeffrey 19, Alexis 18, Jonah 17, James 16 and Ruth 11.  Please remember them in your prayers.


Several members wrote in and left notes about James Feliciano -

Sad news, Doc put up a good fight he will be missed, as a member and veteran of the 502nd Doc as a Combat Medic, never stopped looking out for the Soldier's of the 502nd, he was always at the front in what ever needed to be done. Doc, will be for ever remembered by those he served in Vietnam and all that he came into contact.  Airborne Doc, a true hero.  Joseph M Bossi
 


Fellow Eagles:
 
We are all quite saddened by the passing of Doc......What a Great American, Husband, Father and Paratrooper.
 
I just got off the phone with Doc's oldest son Jeffery.  The family is together in Syracuse and handling this as best as possible.  The Feliciano family knows that the Screaming Eagle community has Doc and his family in our prayers.  Funeral arrangements are in the process of being made at this time......more to follow.
 
Doc and I virtually grew up in the same small village in upstate NY.  His Uncle Charlie still lives in Frankfort and my sister will visit with him today.
 
Airborne / AASLT........All the Best.......Frank
 
 
CSM Frank Grippe
Corps Command Sergeant Major
I Corps and FT Lewis
"AMERICA'S CORPS"

BLDG 2025
HQ, I Corps & Fort Lewis
FT Lewis, WA  98433-9500

 

Joe Bossi has informed me that Doc Felicano has just passed on. He was one of the O'Duce best medics we ever had.
 
May God bless him and his family in these trying times. We'll miss him very much, and my the Strike force welcome him home.
Srtike!
 
Airborne
Johnny Velasquez
Bravo 2/O'Duce

I am very sad to hear of the death of Doc Feliciano.  He and I have been old friends for many years.  We also worked closely together on veterans affairs for Senator Harris Wofford, I manning the veterans’ desk at the Senator’s Washington DC office and Doc holding the fort in Harrisburg.  He was devoted to the highest traditions of combat medicine.  Doc was also a great family man, devoted to his wonderful wife and children.  I will miss him greatly.  If anyone can advise me of funeral plans I would be grateful.  I’d rather not disturb Bernie and his family with inquiries at this sad moment in their lives.

 

George Malleck

 

March 17, 2008

 

Larry:
 
Could you please post on the website that the 101st office is asking for  donated 101st Vietnam photos.  Must be of 101st  soldiers. Please no inkjet photo prints. E-mail scanned digital file copies (300 dpi when scanned or more) to semag101st@comcast.net or snail mail donated hard copies to: 101st Assn.,  PO BOX 929 Fort Campbell, Ky 42223. If you would like your photos returned, please include a self addressed and stamped return folder.
 
Please send photos before April 21, 2008.
 
Everyone else:
If you could share any photos of Vietnam that include camaraderie, soldiers with 101st flags, soldiers with locals, soldiers helping each other, soldiers saluting and or in combat. Highly coveted photos would be of anyone in operation EAGLE THRUST.
 
Please tell a buddy and help spread the word. Serious inquiries only.
 
Thank you.
 
Have a Blessed Day!
 
Catie Rodriquez
Graphic Designer / Assistant Editor 
SCREAMING EAGLE MAGAZINE
101st Airborne Division Association
 
(931) 431-0199 x32 | semag101st@comcast.net |
FAX (931) 431-0195
www.screamingeagle.org
 
 
From: Bigpond
To: frazierlg@ctos.com
Sent: Thursday, February 28, 2008 11:36 PM
Subject: New Book

 
Hi Larry,
My name is Terry Mitchell and I have just returned from my second tour in Iraq.  While there I wrote a novel telling the story from the Coalition and Iraqi sides through two opposing fictional characters.  The US character is a member of 101st Division and I thought some of your association members may be interested in reading.
It is available on Amazon books and you can find it by typing my name or the books title "In the Ashes Lie the Eagles".
I would greatly appreciate you advising your members about the book,  They will enjoy reading it and finding out the conditions under which our people fight.
Kind regards and Merry Christmas.
Terry Mitchell

tru_terry@hotmail.com

March 6, 2008

 

A note from Sam Bass -

 

COL Billy E. Spangler - Funeral & Burial - April 15, 2008

 

EVAN SPANGLER, son of Colonel Billy Spangler, called me last night to advise you of the following, on behalf of his mother Melba Spangler (and Evan's wife Marina Spangler), for the men of the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, who served in Vietnam, 1967-68:

The Church Funeral & Services for Colonel Spangler will be at 1300 hours, Tuesday, April 15, 2008, at the Fort Meyers, VA Chapel.  Paul Evans, pastor at 1st United Methodist Church in Boerne, Texas, will lead services.  Evan Spangler will deliver the eulogy.  Barry Hana will offer brief comments representing the military people who knew and served with Colonel Spangler. 

The Military Procession and Burial will be approximately 1330-1430 hours in Arlington National Cemetery immediately following the funeral services.

For those people who attend, a reception will be held at the Fort Meyers Officer Club immediately following the burial services, estimated to begin at 1500 hours.  (Ivan Worrell and Sam Bass, please help get out the word, and provide feedback to me, so we have some idea of who and how many people might attend, while Evan does the same through friends and family contacts.)  Call me with responses please, to assist Evan.

Spangler Family will arrive Monday, April 14 and stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Courthouse Hotel in Arlington, Va.  Check website for information and room rates.  Other area hotels are also available.

Thank You.
Barry Hana
314-753-8932

 

 

March 4, 2008

 

TO:      Unit Governors, Committee Chairs and Chapter Presidents

From:  President Joe R Alexander

Date:  Monday, March 3, 2008

Subject:  BOG Approval of Sam Bass as Executive Secretary and Treasurer

My appreciation to each of you for a speedy response this past week to the
email ballot nominating Sam Bass as our Executive Secretary and Treasurer.
The results of the tally of the unit governor's vote were to approve Sam
Bass as our Association Executive Secretary and Treasurer.

My thanks to Mike Tilden, our outgoing Interim Executive Secretary and
Treasurer for a fine job in running the affairs of the Association in
December 07, January and February 08, which has been no easy task - just ask
Mike. 

Sam is joining us on a part time basis while recuperating from his surgery
and hopefully he will be back full time sometime in April 08.  Currently he
is working in the office on a part time basis and is limited on how much he
can undertake. 

If you call the office and talk to Sam on the phone, please make it short as
sitting after only a few minutes becomes painful.  Let us get Sam healed and
working full time such that he can continue his passion of making our
Association a great organization for us veteran and active duty airborne and
air assault troopers. 

Thanks,

Joe R Alexander, President
101st Airborne Division Association


 

February 4, 2008

 

A note from Roy Smith informed us of the passing of a former Screaming Eagle -

 

Joe Alec Wells    
1930 - 2008
Joe A. Wells, a loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away Friday, Jan. 25, 2008, at a local hospital after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Funeral: 3 p.m. Tuesday at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel in Fort Worth. Burial: Laurel Land Memorial Park. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Laurel Land Funeral Home.
Joe was born Jan. 9, 1930, in Ratcliff. He was a retired U.S. Army veteran who proudly served with the 11th Airborne K Company, 187th Combat Infantry Team during the Korean War. He later served in the 101st Airborne at Fort Campbell, Ky., and retired on active reserve status.
Joe was active in many veterans and civic organizations. He was past commander of American Legion Post 516 and served the American Legion in many local and district offices.
He was a member of the color guard of VFW Post 2137, a master Mason of Masonic Lodge 1348 in Richland Hills, a member of Rakkasans 187 ARCT, Lone Star Chapter, and the American Airborne Association.
Joe never met a stranger and will be greatly missed by his family and a multitude of friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Dawn.
Survivors: His wife of 55 years, Bunny; grandchildren, Blake, Brent and Brittany Pigrenet of Bedford; sister, Corrie Bob Webber of Irving; nephews, Mike and Randy Phillips; and niece, Gail Phillips.
Published in the Star-Telegram on 1/28/2008.

 

January 23, 2008

 

 

Many of you might know Chuck Slezak (A Co/101st Avn. Bn) and, 101st Airborne Division Assn. Aviation Governor from California.  About a year ago, he suffered through a bad skydiving accident, which resulted in the end of this hobby for him after 3,467 jumps.  Review the following you tube video link to see him in action on a F.D.N.Y. 9/11 jump in 2002.   He's the jumper in the silver helmet -

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpdPzjBC4mY

 

 

 

January 4, 2008

 

Dear Fellow Screaming Eagles,
 
My name is Joe White, and I am a life member of the organization.  Now you may have seen my search request in the latest Screaming Eagle, where I am looking for former dog handlers.  
 
Well my purpose in writing to you is to seek your support for a campaign that I am leading.  You see, I am working towards getting Congress to declare March 13 - K9 Veterans Day.   March 13, 1942 is the official birthday of the United States K9 Corps, and so it is that we are working to have that as an annual day of honor and thanks for the service of all the dogs of all our wars.   And make no mistake about it, dog soldiers have saved the lives of many of us Eagles, right up to the current war.   And as a former Screaming Eagle dog handler, I would say that the 101st has/had the best dogs of all.
 
If you go to our web site for additional information you will see that our campaign is not seeking a single dollar of support.  So just like the dogs who never asked for anything but appreciation, though they bled and died, and got miserable alongside our soldiers, we too seek only your appreciation.  We simply ask that you support our efforts by doing something on March 13 to honor the dogs, and to bring the campaign to the attention of the public.  And if you like, you can help us to get names on our petition, and to assist us in reaching others.
 
We are the voice of those Veterans who truly have no voice, and I personally would be honored to have you, my fellow Eagles, participate in this honorable campaign to honor forever these truly under appreciated Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines.
 
If you have questions, or suggestions, just go to our site, or simply drop me a line.
 
Sincerely,
Joe White
C/Co/2/501    and   47th Scout Dogs supporting 2nd battalion   69/70
K9veteransday.org
 

 

 

January 4, 2008

 

News about a new project from Joe Beyrle -

 

101st Airborne Division Monuments and Memorials Directory

 

To all members of the 101st Airborne Division Association,

 

The following is an outline of a project that I am willing to undertake for the Association.

 

The purpose of this undertaking is to locate, chronicle, record coordinates, photograph and discover the history (as far as possible) of Monuments/Memorials to the 101st Airborne Division, subordinate units and individuals of all eras. The focus of this endeavor will be the United States, Canada, Great Britain, France, The Netherlands and Belgium. I am unaware of any located outside of these areas.

 

I discovered that no listing presently exists. With the proliferation of Monuments/Memorials being erected in Europe to the World War II era units and individuals, a compilation of their locations and information would be of benefit to the Association and its members and families. It would have additional possibilities as an addition to the National Website and a booklet that could be sold by the Association.

 

I proposed this to President Alexander and received his enthusiastic support. I am in the process of forming a committee to assist. I have received offers of help from John Colone (3/506-VN), Roger Day (Associate Member- Author/Historian-England), Jan Coolen (Associate Life Member- Dutch Airborne Friends-The Netherlands) and Ken McAuliffe, Jr. (Associate Member) who has agreed to compile the information gathered in to a data base. We still need members who reside in France and Belgium who are bi-lingual and have internet access. I would think a committee of no more than ten members of the Association should be able to accomplish this task in 18 to 24 months. If you are interested in joining the committee, please contact me at the information below.

 

I would make an appeal to all members of the Association who are aware of the locations of Monuments and Memorials to share that information with this committee. We are not attempting to catalog individual grave sites but rather sites or objects that have a connection to the 101st Airborne Division, subordinate units or individuals from any era. Please share your information with the committee. We can be reached at: monument101@yahoo.com

 

The information we are looking for is as follows:

1.)    Location (GPS coordinates if possible).

2.)    Photograph (head-on and at angle).

3.)    Inscription.

4.)    Type

5.)    Subject

6.)    Wording

7.)    Contributor

 

 

 Joseph R. Beyrle, II

326th Engineer Bn.

VN 1968-69

Life Member #142

205 Mason Road

Howell, MI 48843

517-546-0272

monument101@yahoo.com

 

The following is an example of what we are attempting:

 

     

 

Location: Hampstead Marshall, England

 

Type: Monument

 

Subject: 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment-WWII

 

Longitude/Latitude:

 

Plaque/Sign Wording:

 

Photograph: Yes

 

Contributor/Notes: Roger Day - 10/2007

 

 

January 3, 2008

 

Comrades in Arms:
 
Roy E. Pickel, a member of the original "Band of Brothers" featured in the television series, passed away Wednesday 02 January 2008 here at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, D.C.
 
I just checked with Chuck Dickerson, who is in charge of the Resident Services Office here at the Ol' Soldiers' Home, and he told me the family had not yet completed making the final arrangements.
 
However, it is believed that burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery.
 
Mr. Dickerson said he would post the information as soon as it is available.
 
I informed him that the local veterans of the 101st Airborne Division would definitely want to participate, if at all possible.
 
Roy Pickel autographed my copy of the 101st AIRBORNE DIVISION "SCREAMING EAGLES" history book, and gave me a photograph of himself when he was a very young trooper going through training.
 
Thank you.
 
John Robert "SAIGON" Mallernee,  KB3KWS
Official Bard of Clan Henderson
Armed Forces Retirement Home
Washington, D.C.  20011-8400

------------------

This was posted by Janitor Jim in the Ann Coulter Official Chat web site, in response to my announcement about Roy Pickel:
 
"Roy Pickel is interviewed on the last disc of the 10-disc set of "Band of Brothers', along with Wild Bill Guarnere, Carwood Lipton and all the others. He reminisces about the sensations he felt during his first jump from a plane. I am saddened by how many of the men interviewed on that disc that have since passed away. Roy Pickel, Carwood Lipton, Bull Randelman, Johnny Martin.....all gone. May they rest in peace."
 

----------------

Comrades in Arms:
 
Attached to this e-mail are three (03) photographs, in JPEG format, of ROY E. PICKEL, who passed away Wednesday 02 January 2008 here at the Armed Forces Retirement Home (i.e., the "Ol' Soldiers' Home") in Washington, D.C.
 
He was one of the original "BAND OF BROTHERS" featured in the television series about Company "E", 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, which parachuted into France in the pre-dawn hours of D-Day.
 
The picture of him sitting in his wheelchair was taken by me while he was enjoying the sunshine, sitting in front of the Sheridan Building at the Armed Forces Retirement Home.
 
The black and white photograph of him when he was in training was a picture he gave to me, at the same time he autographed my personal copy of the 101st AIRBORNE DIVISION "SCREAMING EAGLES" history book.
 
I found the other photograph posted at the Ann Coulter Official Chat web site, where Janitor Jim identified the man standing next to Roy Pickel as LES HASHEY, who also recently passed away.
 
I don't know when or where the funeral will be, and because this is a weekend, with all of the offices closed here at the Soldiers' Home, I may not be able to find out in time to alert the local National Capital Area Chapter of the 101st Airborne Division Association.
 
At the moment, it is believed that burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery.
 
Thank you.
 
John Robert "SAIGON" Mallernee,  KB3KWS
Official Bard of Clan Henderson
Armed Forces Retirement Home
Washington, D.C.  20011-8400
 

 

 

 

Comrades in Arms:

 
I just now received an e-mail from Roy Pickel's daughter-in-law.
 
Here is the text of that message:
 
**********************
 
"Hello Mr. Mallernee,
 
I am writing this regarding your news posting about my father-in-law, Roy Pickel. I wanted to be sure you were aware of his final arrangements. My husband (Roy Pickel Jr.) and I live in San Jose CA and with the back up in scheduling at Arlington we were pressed to schedule Roy's service into February. His cremated remains have been set for a columbarium on Friday, February 8, 2008, at 3 PM Eastern Time....at Arlington National Cemetary.
 
Thanks so much for your kind words.
Sincerely,
Natalie Pickel "

 

 

December 28, 2007

 

Several members have reported the passing of fellow screaming eagle Roger Kling (377th Parachute Field Artillery WWII) -

 

Initially, Courtnay Johnson (daughter of Col. Ben Weisberg, 377th PFA WWII)) called and left a message. 

 

The following news came from Jack Nolan -

From: "Jack Nolan" <jnolan7@tampabay.rr.com>
Date: Fri, 28 Dec 2007 19:01:21 +0000
 

 

Dear Fellow troopers,

 

Roger Kling, a life member and member of the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter, passed away on Thursday,  27th December. There will be a memorial service at the Island Chapel, 1271 Pinellas Bayway, St Petersburg (Tierra Verde), 33715, 727-866-7362. The service will be held at 11;30 on Friday, January 4th. He will be buried later in NY.

 

Carolyn has asked no flowers be sent; Carolyn wishes donations, to be made to the Hospice of the Florida Suncoast. 727-586-4432.  Send sympathy cards to:

 

Carolyn Kling

113 1st ST E, #203

Tierra Verde, FL 33715

727-867-5991

 

Jack Nolan

Secretary

 

 

Left to Right - Lt. Gen. David H. Petraeus, Roger Kling (377th PFA WWII), Jim Joiner, and Larry Redmond at the Minneapolis Reunion in August 2006 (Photo by Carolyn Kling)

-----------------------------------------------------------------

I met Roger in the late 80's, he used to bring a small cannon to the annual reunions.  You could fire this cannon (with blank shells) in memory of fellow Screaming Eagles you knew and wanted to honor.  I'm sad to hear of his passing, and know we've lost a good member to a better place.  I'm also sure Roger's friends will welcome him with open arms and lots of cannon fire!

 

Larry Frazier

 

December 21, 2007

 

Date:    20 December 2007

 

To:       Members and Friends of the 101st Airborne Division Association

 

Sub:     Sam Bass

 

The health “gremlin” has once again appeared in our lives.  This time it is Sam Bass.

 

On 20 December 2007, I received the following message from him:

 

“I have had to delay our departure for our mission. During routine medical checks, it was determined that I have prostate cancer. The treatment will begin immediately following further medical tests. The doctor has advised me that I need to delay my travel plans by six months.

 

I feel fine, I have a positive attitude about this and the prognosis appears positive. The doctor is encouraged by my "youth" and my energy. I do appreciate your prayers. I will keep President Joe and the staff informed of my progress toward the mission.”

 

Signed Sam Bass

 

 

I have talked to Sam on the phone and he is optimistic about the prognosis. 

 

Sam has undertaken many difficult and challenging tasks as Executive Secretary and Treasurer of the 101st Airborne Division Association and he intends to apply the same intensity and determination to defeating prostate cancer.

 

Sam is always reluctant to accept recognition for the many wonderful and unselfish things that he does for others.  He tends to shift the attention to others.

 

Today and beyond, let us put aside his humbleness and return to him what he has so generously given to us.  

 

Please keep him and Llewanne in your prayers and thoughts.

 

Joe R Alexander, President

101st Airborne Division Association

 

NOTE - Anyone wishing to send Sam a "get well soon" card can do so by sending it addressed to him to the National Assn. Office - Headquarters, 101st Abn. Div. Assn. P.O. Box 929, Ft. Campbell, KY 42223-0929

 

Subject: Sam Bass Update 12/28/2007

 

To All:

 

Sam Bass called today (12/28/2007) to report the results of his bone scan.

 

And it is good news. 

 

According to the scan, Sam’s prostate cancer has not metastasized.  He will meet with his Doctor next Friday (1/4/2008) to schedule robotic surgery to remove the cancerous prostate gland.  Sam expects surgery will be followed with external beam radiation therapy and seeding.

 

It is unknown at this time when Sam will be able to start his missionary journey.

 

Sam and Llewanne are very gratefully for your thoughts and prayers.  They asked that we continue and to include others who are experiencing difficult times.

 

Let us celebrate this good news.

 

 

Joe R Alexander, President

101st Airborne Division Association

 

 

December 19, 2007

 

From Joe Alexander, President of the 101st Airborne Division Association -

 

Date:      18 December 2007

 

To:        Members of the 101st Airborne Division Association

 

From:    Joe R Alexander, President

 

Subject: Update on Appointment of Interim Executive Secretary & Treasurer and Nomination by the Selection Committee

 

 

As many of you know, Sam Bass announced on 8 October 2007 that he was resigning effective 15 December 2007 his position as Executive Secretary and Treasurer (ES&T) of the 101st Airborne Division Association (Assn) to serve as a foreign missionary for his church.

 

On 10 October 2007, I appointed Fred Ranck (Chair), Robert Nichols, Ivan Worrell, Phil Kallas and Ken Hesler to a selection committee for the purpose of soliciting, interviewing and ranking applicants for Sam’s replacement

 

The Selection Committee immediately went to work advertising and soliciting applicants during the period of Oct through Nov 30.  They reviewed some 37 resumes

 

The committee met on14 December 2007 at Fort Campbell Kentucky to interview the seven leading applicants.   Six of the candidates appeared in person and one was interviewed by telephone. 

Based on due diligences to include the results of their scored interview process, the Selection Committee unanimously recommends James Page for the position of ES&T.

A resolution from the Selection Committee to appoint Jim Page as the ES&T will be presented to the Board of Governors at the Snowbird 2007 meeting.

Jim Page’s qualifications and experience are exceptional.  He is a life member of the 101st Airborne Division Association and a combat veteran of Iraq.  In 2002, CPT Page was selected by the Chief of Staff to serve as the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault's Historian, a nominative assignment at Fort Campbell.  CPT has resigned his commission and is in the process of leaving the Army.  For more information, please review his attached application.

 

Additionally, the Selection Committee recommends that Mike Tilden serve with appropriate compensation as the interim ES&T until Jim Page is available.

 

Therefore, Mike Tilden has been appointed the interim ES&T.

Assuming that Jim Page will be available prior to the Snowbird meeting, he will follow Mike Tilden as the interim ES&T.

 

The Selection Committee has done an exceptional job.  Please join me in sending my sincerest appreciation for their service to our Assn.  As you know so well, appointing our ES&T is paramount to successful management of our prospering and growing organization.  I commend the committee for its hard work and commitment to finding a candidate for this key position.    Job well done.  Thank you Selection Committee.

 

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact me or the Selection Committee.

 

In closing, we are approaching the December anniversary in which our Division added fame and honor to its heritage by earning a huge victory during the pivotal Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne

 

Please remember in your thoughts and prayers those brave and courageous soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division who fought against all odds to be victorious in the Bastogne battles.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Joe Alexander, President

101st Airborne Division Association.

 

December 16, 2007

 

Two requests today for help from our members -

Dear sir, I was born in Normandy not far from the place where a C 47
 (number 42 101 025) crashed on D Day, in Bois de Limors, with 18
 paratroopers from 501st PIR. I am trying to find out who they were. The pilot
 of the troop carrier was Lt. Eugene F. Hennig. 

I'd be grateful if you could help to find their names or redirect me to
 a suitable  address. 
Thank you in advance. Regards

Alain Chausserie
alainchausserie@yahoo.fr 

Help if you can.........

 

Sir,

my name is Brieuc Cudennec, I am twenty three  years
old and I am a French student in History. I'm writing
you because I study about soldiers called 'White
Russians' during the Second World war. Indeed, Russian
prisoners were recruited by the Wehrmacht and became
troops in particular in France.
I would like to find some American veterans who could
meet some Russian soldiers during the war. May you
leave my advertissement in your website, please?
If some veterans wish to tell me their own memories
and testimonies, I give my email address:

brieucgonzo@yahoo.fr


Thank you very much

Brieuc Cudennec

 

 

 

Ever seen a soldier walking down the street, mall, or in the airport and wanted to express your gratitude or say thanks?   Visit this site for news on The Gratitude Campaign -        

 

http://www.gratitudecampaign.org/fullmovie.php

 

December 8, 2007

 

Many of our members want to see and hear news from the active division units that are deployed.  Many of the units serving with the 101st (327, 502, 506, etc.) publish newsletters and videos that you can read from the following site -

 

 Dvids - Digital Video and Imagery Distribution System (main site)

 

Rakkasan Report (3rd Brigade Combat Team)  - http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=33

 

Wings of Destiny Magazine (101st Aviation Brigade) - http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=44

 

Thunder Eagle Magazine (159th Combat Aviation Brigade) - http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=38

 

The Heart Beat (2nd Brigade Combat Team) - http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=42

 

Currahee Press (506th Regimental Combat Team) - http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=71

 

The Bastogne Magazine (1st Brigade Combat Team) - http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=110

 

Band of Brothers (101st Airborne, but nothing current) -

http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=40

 

I'm sure they will add more units as time goes on.  Browse from the 1st link supplied above.  They also have tons of videos, etc.  I thought the Holiday Greetings Section was great.  You can enter this area, select a state, and hear 6020 greetings (video or just audio) from soldiers serving away from home.

 

Read about three Rakkasans who have earned their 5th combat patch at http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=news/news_show.php&id=14509

There are 47 pages of 101st stories you can read by simply entering a 101 in the search field.

 

Watch a video like http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=video/video_show.php&id=30878# which features the 3rd Brigade Combat Team (Rakkasans) assuming command from the 10th Mountain Division in Southern Badgdad

 

 

Spend some time there for interesting news, great photos, and videos.....Have fun!

 

Larry Frazier

 

November  24, 2007

 

The following note and link was received earlier this summer from one of our members -

 

Larry:
 
My name is Jerry A. Rieck
I am a life member
I served with C-326 Med. 1967-1968
My e-mail address is maddog1@alpinecom.net
I am also the owner and driver of the 101st Screaming Eagle stock car.  This car is numbered and dedicated to the 101st Screaming Eagles.  Past, present and futrue.  The car runs at a local dirt track in the great state of Iowa.  There will be more to come about the car.  Building a new car this winter.  Well we are building two new cars.  One to race and one to show.
 
Jerry A. Rieck

 

I asked Jerry if he had pictures etc., and received the following -

 

Larry let me know if you get this with the web page or not. This is the car that I started out with and it is still intact all I have to do is rebuild the motor.  But you can run this if you want to.  I also have white t-shirts about living the dream on them.  They are for sale at $15.00 each.  The money from the shirts go to helping to keep the car going.  As I have no sponsor for it.  I hope to drum up some help money wise from members and past members of the 101st,  As in a way it everybody's car.  I just keep it up and run it.  I also take the car around to different places so anyone can get a chance to see the car.  There is no way that I make any money on it if you know what I mean.  It was a dream to do this.  Now I am just living the dream.
 
 
http://www.alpinecom.net/~maddog1/

 

If you're interested in stock car racing, or supporting a car, send Jerry a note....I apologize for not getting this in earlier..

 

Larry Frazier

 

 

November 6, 2007

 

Joe Bossi provides a link to a page that summarizes Operation Torch 2007 below.  Make sure you see all the pictures and explanations by clicking on the pictures that are "hot spots" leading you to more pictures from that day or event.

Subject: Screaming Eagles website updated

 

Great pictures from Operation Torch 2007
 
http://www.screamingeagles.nl/summaryot2007.htm
 
Click on the picture and more pictures come up...   hit the "back" button to return... These are some of the pictures from this years Operation. Operation Torch, 2008, is all ready, the dates are posted on the Screaming Eagles of WW-Two Website at (screamingeagles.nl) Hope to maybe seeing you there. Bastogne! JMBossi            
 
 

November 6, 2007

 

News passed on by Joe Alexander and Larry Redmond...Please help these folks if you can.... -

 

Hi Joe
 
I am producing a documentary and oral history on the Battle of Coral/Balmoral May 1968 Vietnam for the 40th anniversary in 2008. Although this was a largely Australian battle - 1RAR and 102 Field Battery -  I am looking for American 101 Airborne Division vets who were involved, particularily later in the bunker clearing operations conducted 19 May. If possible I would like their account to be included in the oral history and documentary. Could you help me locate vets who would be willing to speak with me?
 
I am working with the 1RAR Reunion Group in Australia who have made Australian vets available and I am undertaking a trip to Vietnam this week with Australian vets to meet and record oral histories of NVA and VC vets of that battle.
 
Your help would be greatly appreciated.
 
 
Kind regards
 
Leonie Jones
Lecturer, Media Production
Faculty of Arts
University of Souther Queenland
Toowoomba, Australia.

jonesl@usq.edu.au



 

October 21, 2007

 

The following is a note received from Ken Tilley, Lt Col, USAFR, an Air Force Historian.  He'd like some help with some D-Day research from 502nd PIR veterans and enthusiast's.  Please help if you can......  Make sure you read Belle's Story (a Word doc attachment below)  Larry Frazier

 

Larry, A question has arisen after it has been “discovered” that the lead C-47 to drop airborne troops on D-Day is still flying in Arizona!  The attachments will address a lot of questions and we at the AF Historical Research Agency want to go a step further.  We have established that the Belle of Birmingham (S/N 42-92847) was not the lead aircraft in the invasion as the first 11 C-47s dropped the pathfinders.  It IS the first aircraft to drop airborne troops (from the 502nd PIR) and from what we can find, the only C-47 still in existence (and is still flying!) out of the lead aircraft (the lead C-47 to drop pathfinders crashed during Market Garden).  What we are interested in finding from the 101st Association is the names of the first stick that was dropped from this plane.  Although this might be a needle in a haystack, if any of the first 20 or so airborne troops who jumped from that plane are still living, it would be quite a story to marry them up with the same plane 63 years later.  This might be impossible to find but one thing that helps is that the 438th Troop Carrier Group commander, Lt Col John M. Donalson, and the 87th Troop Carrier Squadron commander, Lt Col David E. Daniel were pilot/co-pilot on that plane and we are hoping that important 502nd and/or 101st leaders were in that plane also.  If there is any way to determine this or any records exist or any individuals might shed light on this subject, please let us know.  The owner of the C-47 is a great guy and we are working with him to preserve the plane.  Take care and have a great one, Ken Tilley, Lt Col, USAFR, Air Force Historian  (334) 953-5152

 

 

Read Belles Story - Belle's Story

 

 

October 12, 2007

 

Announcement

 

Sam and Llewanne Bass have accepted a call from their church to serve as foreign missionaries.  

 

Sam will continue to serve the 101st Airborne Division Association (Assn) in a full time capacity until 14 December 2007.   After this time, he will be available on a limited basis until mid January 2008 when they begin their missionary journey.  

 

Fred Ranck will chair the committee to search for Sam’s replacement.  I encourage anyone desiring the position to apply.  Keep in mind that the job is located at Fort Campbell KY and there are no provisions to pay relocation expenses.

 

The Executive Secretary and Treasurer (ES&T) is appointed by majority vote of the Board of Governors (BOG).  However, an interim ES&T will be appointed by the President to serve until the next BOG meeting scheduled for 1-2 February 2008 at the Snowbird reunion.

 

Sam has been a dependable, hard working and productive ES&T.  His service as a business manager, administrator, editor, finance officer and public representative of the Assn has been exceptional. 

 

Sam Bass has accomplished many things during his tenure.  He has worked many hours beyond the expected time and has distinguished himself as our ambassador to veterans, active duty and the public.  Sam takes every opportunity to greet our active duty soldiers, say thank you to our veterans and inform the public about our Assn.

 

Please keep Sam and Llewanne in your prayers and thoughts as they travel to foreign countries that are often unstable.  I admire their devotion.

 

It has been a pleasure working with Sam.   Without a doubt, he will be missed and I wish him and Llewanne a safe and prosperous mission.

 

Joe R Alexander, President

101st Airborne Division Association

 

 

COL (R) Robert Ellis Jones, 90, died Thursday Sep 13, 2007, at his home.

 

 

COLONEL ROBERT E. JONES United States Army, Retired

 

Born 19 July 1917, in Montreal, Canada, Colonel Robert E. Jones was commissioned in the United States Army as a 2nd Lt. Infantry, 22 May 1939. Jones served in Troop F, 111th Cavalry, NMNG, CCC, and 33 years active duty. Upon graduation from Parachute School 23 May 1942 and assignment to 502d PIR, he served in various assignments, to include participation in Normandy and Rhineland Campaigns WWII. Jones was wounded in Holland during Operation Market Garden while commanding "H" Company, 502d PIR, and returned to the US in February 1945 for hospitalization.

Colonel Jones was assigned to The Parachute School, Ft. Benning, GA, May 1945 to May 1948, then to 511th PIR, 11th ABN DIV, Camp Haugen, Japan. He was subsequently assigned to the 32d Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division April 1949. Jones engaged in five offensive campaigns in Korea. He participated in the Inchon landing as Company Commander "C" Company, 32d Infantry. As a participant in the Chosin Reservoir attack in North Korea as SI of the 1st Battalion, 32d Infantry, Jones led the remnants of that Battalion, comprising himself, two other officers and 18 soldiers, out of Chosin Reservoir while attached to the 7th Marine Regiment, 1 st Marine Division. He remained in Korea as Executive Officer and Battalion Commander until his return to the United States in June 1951.

Jones served as an Airborne Instructor at the Command and General Staff College 1951-1954, followed by a three year tour in Hawaii as a National Guard Advisor, G3 Staff Officer and as G5 US Army Pacific. His next assignments were with the 1st Airborne Battle Group, 327th Infantry 1957-1960, and as Executive Officer, Deputy Commander and Group Commander, Ft. Campbell, KY.

In 1960, Jones was assigned as an Infantry Unit Advisor to the Turkish Third Army. In 1961, he was selected to attend the US Army War College; upon completion he was assigned to Special Warfare Directorate, Office of the Chief of Staff for Operations, Department of the Army at the Pentagon 1962-1964, then to the Joints Chiefs of Staff J3, actively engaged in planning and operations of the Vietnam Conflict.

Initially assigned to USAEUR Heidelberg In August 1966, Jones assumed command of the 10th Special Forces Group (ABN) Bad Toelz, Germany. Upon return of the Group to the US in September 1968, he traveled to Vietnam to serve as Deputy Director, Phoenix Directorate, COORDS, HQ MACV until 3 June 1970. He then departed to be Chief of Staff and Deputy Installation Commander, Fort Lewis, WA.

Colonel Jones received his Bachelor of Science degree from New Mexico A&M College in 1939, with Post Graduate work at the University of Texas. In 1965, he received a Master of Arts degree in International Affairs from George Washington University.

Colonel Jones' awards and decorations include: Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Legion of Merit with two clusters, Bronze Star with cluster, Joint Service Commendation Medal with two clusters, Purple Heart with cluster, Army Commendation Medal with Metal Pendant, Presidential Unit Citation (Army), Presidential Unit Citation 1st and 2d Awards (Navy), Belgian Fourraguere, French Croix DeGuerre with Palm, Netherlands Orange Lanyard, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnamese Police Medal of Honor 1st Class, Vietnamese Rural Revolutionary Development Medal, and various other Service Medals. He received the Combat Infantry Badge with Star, the Master Parachute Badge and a Glider Badge. Jones was awarded the Departments of Army General Staff Identification and Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badges.

After retirement from active duty in 1973, Colonel Jones resided in Clarksville, TN, where he continued his public service through many military and community pursuits. He was granted and assigned the distinction of being the original Honorary Colonel of the 502nd Infantry Regiment, a Distinguished Member of the 502nd Infantry Regiment and a Distinguished Member of the 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.

Jones was past President and Chairman of the Board for the 101st Airborne Division Association; Chairman of the Board for the 32d Infantry Regimental Association; and a Member of The Chosin Few, survivors of the Chosin Reservoir action. In 1997, a building at Ft. Drum, NY was named for Colonel Jones by the 1st Battalion, 32d Infantry Regiment to recognize his leadership in bringing the Battalion's last remnants out of Chosin Reservoir.

Colonel Jones was named by Rotary International as a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a past Worthy Patron of Eastern Star; 32d Degree Mason for more than 50 years, a Sojourner and a Knights Templar. Jones was named by the 101st Airborne Division Association as The Airborne Man of the Year when he was president of the Association. He received the ultimate honor of being named The Airborne Man of the Year from The Static Line, an organization of all airborne associations comprising many tens of thousands of warriors.

Colonel Jones was a co-incorporator and Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Fort Campbell Historical Foundation, which is building the Wings of Liberty Military Museum at Ft. Campbell.