Letters Home I-O

Letters Home I-O

Newspaper Clippings and Letters Home

From World War II

I-O

Service Salutes

In every town, on every street,
There’s something missing—
The tread of feet, of all the boys we used to know,
And days are weary and nights are long,
We miss them so.


Re: Luverne Johnson

May 29, 1944

Terril boy in Service in Uncle Sam’s Navy

Luverne Johnson was born at Ogden September 25, 1906. He has spent most of his life around Terril, operating the Sinclair station for a number of years. He entered the service April 3, 1944. He is in the navy and has made two trips out, covering about 9 months. He was recently home to visit his wife, the former Marie Grady and children, Lynne Marie and Lawrence, his brother Carl, and three sisters; Myrtle Peters, Mildred Schnell and Viola Griffin and his father, C. L. Johnson at the Park. While he was home, his leave was saddened by the sudden death of another brother, Edgar, at Eagle Bend, Minnesota.

Luverne is Seaman first class.

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December 20, 1945

Luverne Johnson got home from the Navy Tuesday evening. He just came from the west coast. Marie met him in Minneapolis.

Discharge December 1945


Re: Wayne Johnson

April 5, 1945

Wayne Johnson, in the coast guard, called the home folks a couple of times this week from Manhattan Beach, N.Y.

Wayne C. Johnson.jpgJune 28, 1945

Wayne is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver C. Johnson and was a student of Terril high school, graduating this year.

He enlisted February 15, 1945 in the Coast Guard and is taking his training at Coast Guard’s Manhattan Beach Training school, Brooklyn, N.Y. He was home a short time ago on leave to visit his parents and sister, Marlayce.

August 9, 1945

Lakehurst, N.J., 24 July – Wayne Carlyle Johnson, S 2c, of Terril, Iowa this week began training in weather observation at the Navy Aerographers School of the Lakehurst Naval Air Station (Lighter-than-air).

The school trains sailors, marines, coastguardsmen and Waves in a three month course. Women reservists are assigned to duty at shore bases, relieving men form duty.

The course includes meteorology, weather codes and mapping, map analysis, balloon sounding and typing. In a weather observatory maintained by the school, students stand watches just as they later will do on active duty, with expert aerographers directing their work.

Seaman Johnson is with the U.S. Coast Guard.

October 4, 1945

Lakehurst, N.J., 28 September – Wayne Carlyle Johnson, S2/c , USCG, formerly of Terril, Iowa, who entered the U.S. Coast Guard in February, 1945, completed training in weather observation at the Navy Aerographer’s school here at the Navy Air Station (Lighter-than-air)

The school trains sailors, marines, coastguardsmen and Waves in a three-month course. Women reservists are assigned to duty as observers at shore bases, relieving men for sea duty.

May 23, 1946

Wayne Johnson, who has been in the Coast Guard, received his discharge last Friday.

May 30, 1946

Wayne Johnson came home Tuesday from the east coast where he has recently been discharged from the U.S. Coast Guard.

 

Wayne Johnson Has Work in Tokyo, Japan

September 5, 1946

Mrs. Ollie Johnson subscribed for the Record for their son, Wayne, who is in Tokyo, Japan. He’ll get the news a little late but it will still be news to him. Wayne was discharged from the Coast Guard last spring and has accepted a job with the government as weather forecaster. He will be located in Tokyo for a year. He left here July 6. He gets about 5000 dollars a year; if he stays the full year without leave gets 1000 dollar bonus. His clothes and food are furnished. He wears the same kind clothes as an officer except no gold or silver stripes. His quarters are with the officers. Wayne took his training for this when he was in the Coast Guard, stationed at Lakehurst, N.J. This was at the Neuman school. It was the work he wanted and was hired by the government after he come home, to take this job. He writes his mother that the climate is very much like it is in Iowa and so far he likes it fine.


Re: Maurice Jones

Spencer Times –

The Rev. Maurice Jones, pastor of the Methodist church in Sutherland, son of M. M. Jones of Milford, and brother of Harley Jones of this city expects to give up his pastorate and join the United States armed forces as chaplain. He met the requirements as outlined by the national board of examiners in a meeting last week in Cincinnati, Ohio and is now anxious to make the final arrangements. Before going to Sutherland Rev. Jones was pastor of the Methodist church in Terril. His wife is the former Hazel Chamberlain of northeast of Spencer. They have three children, Marjorie, Bobby and Jimmie all of school age.

Chaplain M. Jones

Advanced to Captain

Supervisor M. M. Jones received word last week his son, Chaplain M. L. Jones, had been promoted to the rank of Captain on December 18, 1943. Captain Jones is with the antiaircraft division on the Solomon Islands. He has been in the service since April 1943. At the time he entered services Capt. Jones was pastor is charge of the Methodist church at Sutherland and prior to that served the church at Terril for several years. He has two brothers in service, both in the navy. Dale is pharmacist mate first class at South Weymouth, Mass., and Lee is fireman first class with the Pacific fleet. Mrs. M.L.Jones and children are making their home in Spencer for the duration.-Milford Mail.

Maurice was born on the farm in Milford township 39 years ago last September. Besides the brothers, Dale and Lee in the service there are three other brothers, Glen, Clyde and Harley, and four sisters, Mrs. Winnie Robinson, Mrs. Lottie Taylor, Mrs. Mabel Carr and Mrs. Lillian Crumlett. He has one nephew also in the service. Captain Jones was pastor of the Methodist church here for seven years and is just another one of our boys.

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Lieut. M. L. Jones Writes Interestingly

Dear Dad,

I got your nice letter today and had already set tonight as time to answer your last letter, so now I can kill two birds with one stone.  The work is about done.  I had three exams today and one for Monday and that is all.  We took 3 different courses.  The one I liked best was military law.  They were pretty stiff and we had to get right down and work to keep up.  The afternoons were spent out in the field.  Yesterday we went on a twelve mile hike.  We took it in three hours and a half.  Some had to drop out, but I stayed with the ship.  Today we had a break as it was raining and the Major did not like to get wet any better than we did, so he dismissed us after an hour out in the rain.  I like it though and am anxious to get to my new job.  I’ll be out from Savannah, Ga. about 40 miles.  The fellows from here that have been there say it is nice down there.  It has been so nasty here.  Cold and wet all the time.

I called Dale this afternoon and he was fine.  He is going up to Aunt Stella’s with me this week end.  He is a good scout to run around with.  In fact he is better than some of  the chaplains that are here.  We spent one Saturday night and Sunday together.  He keeps on getting fat.  He came out here and I got an extra cot and he stayed all night with me.  Then we went to the Old North Church for service.  We saw the Paul Revere house and the place where he hung the lantern.  Then we walked out to Bunker Hill and saw the scene of the battle.  We saw many more of the old places that were of interest.  We stood for a while at the old state house where the Declaration of Independence was signed and read to the people for the first time.  History does something to one as you see what the men of yesterday were willing o do in order that we might enjoy the fruits of their labors.  They did not live to see or enjoy much of what they were willing to start.  Yes, we have a lot to fight for and we must be willing to work for the future.  It is too bad that one man can stir up so much trouble as John L. Lewis.  But in Democracy, one has the right of free speech and that cannot be denied to anyone.

Here’s a story I head the other day.  “A mother was showing off her baby to some friends one day and she said.  “Why just think, he may be president of the United States someday.”  The other woman answered her,  “Why, what is the matter with F.D.R.?”  Well he has a real job and needs our support while he is there.  Division is a trick of the enemy.  He is in power and is my president and I’ll try to support him while he is and when the time comes to change then I am an American, and have a right to vote.  The boys are dying every day to keep that privilege for us all.

I hear from Hazel and the kids real often.  I miss them a lot and was a pretty homesick fellow for about a week or so.  But now I am enjoying the work and I know that I will be busy.  It does one good to see the way the people treat the chaplains.  They think they can do almost anything.  The boys themselves seem to like to talk and visit.  I hope camp is that way.

I am glad that you have some help and hope that he does well.  It must keep you all busy taking care of the pigs.  There is quite a food shortage out here.  Potatoes are a thing of the past, and butter, well I saw my last in Iowa.  But I get enough to live on and that is more than lots of people gave in the world.  I have a good appetite and sleep like a log.

Well, I must make out my report now.  This is a happy place as it was pay day.  Give my regards to all that know me.  Tell the Terril folks that I enjoy their letter and will answer soon.  I got a letter from Winnie and will try to answer when I have more time than I have had here.  From 5:30 to twelve is a long day, but we got used to it.

I was glad to get the news about Lee Yes.  I know what that means but and all other boys want to see action.  It is so dead if there is not something to keep up the interest.  There is a Wise Providence that will guard the lives of us all.  That takes a load off of one’s mind to know that He who made the world is our Friend and will help us to do what he wants done.

Well, write again when you have time.  My new address will be Chaplain 1st Lieut. M.L. Jones, 491 Reg.,/CA (AA), Camp Stewart, Ga.

With lots of love to you all, as ever,

Maurice Jones

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CHAPLAIN M. JONES HAS NEW JUNGLE ARMY CHAPEL

M.M. Jones, supervisor from the third district, received letters from both of his sons, Chaplain Maurice Jones, and Lee, this week.  Both are in the Pacific area.  The chaplain’s letter follows, as it seems most inteesting to The Mail staff.  Lee wrote that he is now on Guam and is well.  He is in the navy, Chaplain Jones with the army.  The third Jones son in service, Dale, left for Boston Monday night after a 30-day leave at home.

“August 7, 1944.  Still out in the jungle.  Dear dad:  I guess it is about time I was writing to you.  Things  here are about the same only more so than when I wrote last.  Some days are wet and some hot and some both.  We get used to the weather and think nothing of it any more.  It is just another day.

“We had quite a day yesterday as we dedicated a large Island chapel.  It was made out of mostly native material, but it was beautiful just the same.  It just happened that D. Polling, a special envoy from the president was traveling through here and gave the address.  The chapel was crowded and men were standing all around the outside.  There were well over a thousand men.  That would be a good crowd for the church back home in most any city.  The men have a vital interest in religion and express it in no uncertain terms.  The service last night was well attended even though the men had to be brought in trucks from the out points and many of them had their services in t heir own camps.  Dr. Polling gave such a fine address and encouraged us a lot.  Sometimes we feel like the forgotten men of the service.  We are so far removed from civilization that we often cannot imagine what is going on all around us.

Well, the doughboys seem to be on the loose in France.  I felt that if they ever got a foothold and could get set then the old boy should start to crawl in his den.  It takes such a long time to build up a war machine that could cope with what Hitler had but now it is there and he is done for.  The same thing will happen out here.

“Tojo” will wish he had never been born when this offensive really gets started.  It takes time but saves lots of lives.  Too many have had to die already. I always feel for the parents of the men when I hear of the new offensive starting as I know that there will be a lot who will have to pay dearly for their country and what it has given us then we are glad to do our bit that others might be able to have some of the blessings that we have had given to us.

“I got quite a thrill yesterday when the guests went out to hear the natives sing.  They did so well and at the close they sang God Bless America.  You have never heard that song sung till you hear the natives sing it.  They really mean it as they have known what America has done already for them.  I tell you it brought the tears to ones eyes.  I wish all our people could hear them sing like that.  So many times we take the blessings of our country and forget its obligations.  America means freedom to these people.  I guess we will never be able to appreciate our freedom as we should as we have never had it taken away from us.

“I know you had a time when Dale was home.  It was so fine that he was able to get there and I know that you all enjoyed him a lot.  I hope he does not have to leave again.  So many times they do in so short a time.

“I suppose threshing is about done by this time.  My time has gone fast this summer and now it is almost fall again.  I hope to be able to get home by this time next year.  In fact we all hope that the war is over.

“I am glad that Jim is getting along so well out at Ethial’s.  He should be out on the farm all the time.  That is the only place to raise boys.  “Well, it is about time for the mailman to get going so will close for this time.  Take good care of yourself.  May God bless you all.  Lots of love, your son,

Maurice


Re: Albert Kahler

Sept. 7, 1944

Albert Kahler.jpgAlbert Kahler was born August 4, 31 years ago. He lived here with his mother, Mrs. Mary Kahler, while he was in high school and worked for Hakes in the Chapman Produce for some time.

Following is an item regarding him which recently appeared in a Spencer paper.

S. Sgt. Albert Kahler of Spencer has been missing in action over France since Aug. 7 according to a government telegram just received by his wife in Fort Wayne, Ind. The couple was married in December of 1943 and Kahler went overseas in January of this year.

Kahler is a crew engineer on a plane. Details of his being missing have not been learned here.

His first training after going into the service in May of 1942 was received at Jefferson Barracks in Missouri. Then he was sent to Chanute Field in Illinois, then to Tyndall Field in Florida, and later to Kellogg Field in Indiana, from which point he was sent overseas.

Commendations for excellence in bombing during the Ninth Air Force pre-invasion attacks and subsequent operations in support of ground forces have been received by a medium bomber group of which Staff Sgt. Albert H. Hahler, 718 E. Fifth Street, Spencer, Iowa, is a member.

A Veteran of more than 30 combat missions over Europe, Sergeant Kahler is an engineer gunner in Colonel Thomas B. Hall’s target busting B-26 Marauder group which has distinguished itself with an outstanding bombing record in the European Theatre of Operations.

Colonel Hall’s group has been officially commended for pin point precision bombing of enemy marshaling yards, bridges and gun positions. Its pre-invasion attacks aided in paving the way for Allied landings in France while current operations in support of ground troops have been credited with assisting the Allies to make steady progress in Normandy.

Sergeant Kahler, who was employed as a sales man before entering the service in May, 1942, wears the Air Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters “for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight in the European Theatre of Operations.”

On Aug. 24 the family received a telegram that he is missing in action and no other word has been received.

He is the only brother of Mrs. Lyle Chapman and besides his wife, living in Fort Wayne, Ind., there is a sister, Mrs. Claud Porter of Spencer.


Re: Leo Kevane Leo Kevane.jpg

Pvt. Leo Kevane, son of Mr. and Mrs. Morris Kevane was born June 23, 1905, near Storm Lake moving to Dickinson County in 1918.

He has six sisters, Mrs. Raymond Miller, Rose, Marguriete and Veronica in Des Moines and Frances at home. Also two brothers James and Bill at home.

Prior to his induction into the Army, he has been engaging in farming.

Leo was inducted April 19, 1942, and has been stationed at Camp Roberts, California since that time.


Re: Keith Kinsman

January 18, 1945

The Ralph Kinsman family got word this week that Ralph’s oldest brothers son, Keith Kinsman, was killed in Belgium December 29, Keith who would have been 21 March 6, was here at the Kinsman home about two months a year ago last fall and was inducted about the same time that Milton Simpson was. He and Milton were pals when he was here. He has an older brother in Italy and a younger brother, 18, who will be called in the next draft. Of the Kinsman clan, this brother of Ralph’s Dan, is the only one who had any boys.


Re: Edmond Kirkwood

Former Terril Boy In the Invasion

Mr. and Mrs. A.G. Kirkwood 1323 Third Ave. West, received a letter on Monday written by their son, Pvt. Edmond Kirkwood, from a hospital in England, following wounds received in the D day invasion of Normandy.

Kirkwood, who is with a medical detachment, was among the first Americans to land on the French coast. His description of the engagement was brief, but he stated he was unusually lucky until the evening of the second day. “Then,” he wrote, “the German 88’s began shelling the ships in the bay. I ran down the beach just after the first volley and suffered a shrapnel wound in my leg. Seventeen men were killed near me. The wound was only a little hole and doesn’t even hurt now.”

But after the second volley Kirkwood suffered a more serious injury. A piece of shrapnel was driven down the back of of the left arm, passing through the joint and out of the inner fore arm. The broken joint is now in a cast and Kirkwood assures his parents he is getting along fine and begs them not to worry. He adds, “I hope to be home soon.”

The letter was dated June 13 and written at East Cold hospital, the last of four hospitals where he was cared for. He says he has fallen in with a “nest of Iowa men.” His ward sergeant is from Fort Dodge, the X-ray technician from Estherville. –Spencer Times


Re: W.M. Klett

Courtesy Everly News

Before entering the service, Lt. Klett was associated here with Dr. M. Donahoe.  He is a graduate of Everly High School and of the School of Veterinary at Iowa State college at Ames.  His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Klett of west of Milford.

Lieut. Klett’s address is MiraMar Hotel.  6218-22  Woodlawn Ave., Chicago, Ill.


 

Re: Raymond Krieger

Raymond Krieger.jpgPvt. f.c. Raymond L. Krieger, son of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Krieger, has been in the United States army for approximately five months and was stationed at Camp Callan at San Diego, California until recently when he was transferred to an electrical school in Los Angeles, California. Raymond graduated from the Terril high school with the class of 1941. He spent six months after graduating working at Swift Co. in Spencer and one summer at the Walter Iles farm near Terril. The rest of the time he spent at home working for his father. Raymond has three brothers at home Wayne, Robert, and Larry and one sister, Mrs. Lee Larson who resides near Terril.

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We understand that Irwin Bridson and Raymond Krieger and Leland McCoy met each other when they were just walking down the street in Los Angeles.  They were really thrilled to meet someone they knew when they are so far from home.
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Mr. and Mrs. Claud Krieger received a letter Tuesday from their son, Raymond, saying that he is now in France.
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Pfc. Raymond Krieger of Ft. Bliss Texas came home last week on a short furlough.

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Claude and Clifford Krieger went to El Paso, Texas last Thursday to visit Pfc. Raymond Krieger, who is stationed at Fort Bliss. They returned home Tuesday.


Re: Freeman S. KnudtsonFreeman S. Knudtson.jpg

Freeman Knudtson is the oldest son of K.S. Knudtson of Milford. He was born November 8, 1919. There are two brothers, Orville and Kenneth and three sisters, Rose, Marie and Mrs. Ernest Dannatt all of Milford.

He was married to Edna Mae Goedicke of Spencer February 18, 1941. He worked for Paul Johnson from the time of his marriage until his induction September 4, 1942. Paul tells us that any thing we can say is not too much because he is one fine fellow.

He was first at Camp Dodge and then at Camp Haan, California. He has been stationed at Long Beach Calif., but is now in a hospital at Sawtell, Calif., where he will be for three of four weeks.


Re: Orville Krukow

Krukow is a truck and peep driver for the 189th Engineer Combat Battalion, a unit of the veteran 34th “Red Bull” Infantry Division. He is returning to the United States on rotation after participating in the Tunisian and Italian campaigns.

Entering the service in April, 1941, he was assigned to the 185th Field Artillery Battalion of the 34th Division at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana, and later was transferred to the engineers. He sailed overseas in February 1942.

His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Max Krukow, reside west of Terril.

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March 29, 1945

First Class Orville Krukow

Terril Veteran Returning Home From Italy

With the Fifth Army, Italy-Private First Class Orville Krukow of Terril, Iowa, is returning home from the Fifth Army front in Italy after serving more than three years overseas.

Hot Springs, Arkansas-Reporting to the Army Ground and Service Forces Redistribution Station in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Pfc. Orville T. Krukow is now living in one of the four major Hot Springs hotels axquired by the Army to house installation.

Pfc. Krukow of Terril, returned to the United States last month after serving 37 months overseas in Italy and Africa. Prior to reporting to the station, he was at home on a 23 day furlough.

He will be in Hot Springs for less then two weeks, waiting reassignment to active duty. The primary function of the Redistribution Station, to assign the returned soldier to the Army job for which he is best fitted, will be accomplished in surroundings designed for rest and relaxation. Under these conditions, expert interviewers and classification personnel secure the maximum cooperation from the returnees

In addition to reassigning the returned veterans, the Redistribution Station is equipped to give the soldiers complete medical examinations and administer whatever medical and dental treatment is necessary to fit him for active duty. Military records will be checked and back pay brought up to date.

Aside from his necessary appointments, the veteran will be free to enjoy the resort facilities available at Hot Springs. An extensive program of entertainment and recreation has been planned for the returnees.

Under the direction of the Eighth Service Command, the Redistribution Station in Hot Springs is one of five set up by the Army Service Forces.


Re: Melvin Kuhse

Aug. 23, 1945

Word From Dickinson County Jap Prisoners Expected Soon

Three county families are anxiously awaiting word of the liberation of the Jap prisoners of war since the surrender of Japan.  As a result of the surrender the families last week were contacted by the county Red Cross Home Service chairman in connection with sending a letter to the prisoners.  Throughout the United States such letters are being sent through the Red Cross to the prisoners, the letters to be delivered to them the day they are liberated.  Each letter may contain a picture.  Mrs. H.P. Smithers has made the arrangements for the mailing of these letters by Dickinson county relatives.

Among those from Dickinson county is Capt. Lloyd Allen, son of Mrs. John Swanlund.  Capt. Allen, as well as others from this county now in Jap prison camps, was taken with the fall of Bataan.  Capt. Allen was last heard from, from the Fukuska prison camp on the island of Honshu.  Pfc. Bernard “Pat” Grow, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Grow of Terril was last heard from, from the Fukuoka prison camp on the Island of Honshu.  Pfc. Melvin Kuhse, a brother of Lester Kuhse of Spirit Lake is at the Mukden prison camp in Manchuria.  It will be remembered that Kuhse was reported this past winter to have been injured when American bombs struck the territory in which he was held.  Kuhse’s mother, Mrs. A. C. Kuhse, passed away in March.

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Sept. 20, 1945

Major Lloyd Allen, son of Mrs. Swanlund of Spirit Lake, who has been a prisoner of the Japs since the fall of Bataan May 6, 1942, has been liberated and returned to the states.

He was in Mukden, Manchuria.  Melvis Kuhse of Spirit Lake was also at Mukden and it is presumed that he also is liberated, but the next of kin do not live at Spirit Lake now, so there had been no word regarding soldier Kuhse.


Re: Reginald Kurtz

Rex Kurtz Gets Promotion

Navigation Cadet, Rex Kurtz son of Mrs. Jessie Kurtz of Terril, Iowa was recently commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Army Air Forces at Turner Field, Albany, Georgia, Coliel John B. Patrick, Commanding Officer.

Turner Field an advanced Flying School, is one of a group of Air Bases which composes the Southeast Army Air Forces Training Center.  It is here that Aviation Cadets, both pilot and navigation, are sent for their final phase of training which culminates in their receiving their much coveted wings and commission as Second Lieutenant in the Army Air Force.

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April 9, 1942

Office of Public Relations

Turner Field, Albany, Georgia

Navigation Cadet Rex Kurtz, son of Mrs. Jessie C. Kurtz, Terril, Iowa has reported to the Air Corps Advanced Flying School at Turner Field for the final stage of training as an Aviation Code.

Located on the low rolling planes of picturesque South Georgia, Turner Field is an advanced school of the Southeast Air Corps Training Center.  One of the few Navigation Schools in the country.  “Prepare For Combat” is the motto, Victory is the byword.

Office of Price Administration

Spirit Lake, Iowa

April 9, 1942

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Terril Boys with Flying Colors

Our service boy this week is Reginald Kurtz who was born in Terril, Jan. 15, 1916.  He attended school here and graduated in 1933.  He graduated  the University of Minnesota in 1937, specializing in business administration.  Rex really took his college work seriously and always has been a boy that attended to  his work in a business like manner.

He enlisted in Oct. 1940 from Minneapolis.  He was at Camp Claiborne until Dec. 1941, when he was transferred to the air corps and has taken his training at various camps.  He graduated from Turner Air Field, Ga. July 4, 1942.  He visited his mother at Dallas Center in July.

Rex has always been another of “our boys” so we are proud as you to say something nice about  him.

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Soldier Boys Appreciate the Terril Record

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Grow:

Get a good firm grip on yourself.  Prepare yourself for a real surprise, I am about to write a letter, a letter I hoped I wouldn’t have to write for this is to be a “thank you” letter.  I had hoped to be in Terril on my leave and personally thank you for the Record which has done an excellent job of catching up with me in my chasing around thru the south the past year and a half.  I delayed and delayed writing for I expected to get enough free time to see Terril before my return to the serious business.

I got my commission on the 4th of July at Turner Field, Ga. and was given a stingy ten days leave.  I took the straightest route which was to Minneapolis, finished up an item or two that I had left undone in March, 1941, stayed there two nights.  Went to Des Moines, saw my Dad’s sister, my Aunt Mary then spent the rest of my time with Mother and Virginia at Dallas Center.  Was very sorry not to get home t o see you and the rest of the folks, but someone was bound to be missed.  Doubt that I’ll get anymore time before getting started on the real job, but if I do, I’ll take the train that stops in Terril.

My first assignment was Ft. Bragg N.C. but that lasted something like two days.  Through some mix-up the outfit I was assigned to already was staffed with Navigators so twenty of us were sent to this group.

I might say a word about my work.  As Navigator in the Air Corps, you plot the course to be flown.  Keep the pilot on course at night or in the daytime by shooting the sun or the stars with a sextant, by the observation on many precision instruments.  Really a very interesting job.  Frequently there is a little controversy over who is the most important man on the ship, the pilot, the navigator or the bombardier.  However, guess there is no question about it, all do a job and each depends on the other.

Food and quarters are two items which change in quantity and quality about as much between two stations as you could possibly imagine.  One place the food will be fair and the quarters good and the next place the exact opposite will be the case.  I’ve been here such a short time that it may be dangerous to generalize but the quarters here aren’t bad and the food its almost the biggest surprise yet.  As officers we are charged 20 cents per meal.  I ate about $3.00 worth of worth of watermelon tonight.  I am sure there is a mistake somewhere, but at least I’ll have a really full stomach when I discover what the mistake is.

Don’t know how long I’ll be stationed near Florence, but they seem to do a pretty good job of forwarding mail.  I mean of course important mail like The Record and mail from home.

Until I can shake hands with you and thank you in Terril, thanks for the paper.  No one reads it more carefully than I do.

Sincerely,

Rex Kurtz

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Missing in Action

Mrs. Jesse Kurtz received word Friday from the War Department that her son, Reginald, was missing in action, as of February 24. No other word has come yet. He was flying in European theatre. She had received letters from him but a short time previously, written earlier in the month.

Virginia Kurtz, a student in Minneapolis, came home for the weekend to be with her mother. She returned Sunday to Minneapolis.

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Mrs. Jessie Kurtz received a letter Monday from a soldier who came home last week on the Gripsholm. He had been with Reginald both in training in the states and in the prison camp in Germany and said Reginald was well. That’s good news for all.

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Five Reported Missing in Past 10 Days

Special to The Messenger

SPIRIT LAKE, March 24

Dickinson county homes have been hard hit by the war news and government official telegrams within the last 10 days. More bad news had been received than throughout the war period previously.

Lt. Reginald Kurtz, son of Mrs. Jessie Kurtz of Terril, a navigator on a fighting plane, is missing over Europe, his mother  has been advised.  He left Terril about 22 months ago, having been reared here and graduated from the local high school.  His mother and a sister, Virginia, going to school in Minneapolis, are his nearest relatives.

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Mrs. Jessie Kurtz received word last Thursday that her son Reginald is a prisoner of the Germans. The telegram read as follows:

Washington D.C.

April 26, 1944

“Report just received through the International Red Cross states that your son First Lieut. Reginald W. Kurtz is a prisoner of war of the German government. Letter of information follows from provost marshal general.

Dunlop, Acting Adjutant general”

It will be remembered that Mrs. Kurtz received word March 17 that Reginald was missing as of Feb. 24, over Austria. Naturally the strain of knowing “missing in action” does not mean the final word helps to lift the load from Reginald’s mother and sister, Virginia, as well as all other relatives and friends.

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Word came over the radio Monday morning that Reginald Kurtz had received a citation for distinguished service over Africa. Reginald was made 1st lieutenant recently. When we get the authentic word of his honors we shall be glad to publish the news.

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First Lieut. Reginald Kurtz received an air medal for meritous achievement over Sicily before the fall of Sicily. He is now stationed in Sicily.

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Terril Boys with Flying Colors

Lt. Reginald Kurtz

Our service boy this week is Regmaid Kurtz who was born in Terril, Jan. 15, 1916. He attended school here and graduated in 1933. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1937, specializing in business administration. Rex really took his college work seriously and always has been a boy that attended to his work in a business like manner.

He enlisted in Oct. 1940 from Minneapolis. He was at Camp Claiborne until Dec. 1941, when he was transferred to the air corps and has taken his training at various camps. He graduated from Turner Air Field, Ga. July 4, 1942. He visited his mother at Dallas Center in July.

Rex has always been another of “our boys” we are proud as you to say something nice about him.


Re: Joseph A. Larson

Joseph A. Larson.jpgJoseph (Bob) Larson, son of Joe Larson of Estherville, was born at Mohaw, North Dakota, February 6, 1916.

He married Arlene Olson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Olson, of Terril May 24, 1942.

He was inducted into the Army August 21, 1942. He had his basic training for the Medical Detachment at Camp Grant, Illinois.

He is now stationed with the Air Corps in Birmingham, Alabama. It was there that he received his ratings as Pfc. and Cpl. He was home on a short furlough the last of January 1943.

He has two brothers, LeRoy, who is in the Army, stationed at Camp Roberts, California and Eugene of Detroit, Michigan and one sister, Mrs. Wm. Brown, also of Detroit.

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Re: Ralph E. Layman Ralph E. Layman.jpg

Ralph E. Layman, Chief Specialist is with the Station Force at Davisville, Rhode Island.

He came to Terril in 1918 with his mother Mrs. Gae Layman and brother E. Price at the age of one and a half years and his brother 2 ½ years. Price passed away April 20, 1934.

Ralph graduated in 1935 after attending Terril School for 12 years. He graduated from Buena Vista college in 1939. He was affiliated with Delta Phi Rho Fraternity and Litterman’s Athletic club.

He was State Life Guard at Terrace Park in the summers of 1935 and 36. He coached at Linn Grove in 1940.

He married Miss Regina Oster of Spencer on Dec. 4, 1941.

Ralph enlisted in the Dept. of Physical Education of the United States Navy under Lieut. Commander Gene Tunney on March 24, 1942.

He received his military training at Norfolk, Va. and was recently transferred to Davisville, R.I.

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Ensign Ralph E. Layman has completed his 4 month indoctrinational training at Fort Schuyler, New York City, and has been ordered overseas. He arrived in Des Moines by plane last week and was met at the airport by his mother, Mrs. Gae Layman and mother-in-law, Mrs. Lucy Oster of Lake Park and brother-in-law Raymond Oster. He and his wife and mother are spending his leave at Spencer and at the farm home of Mrs. Lucy Oster.

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Born Wednesday, September 8 in a Spencer hospital, a daughter to Ensign and Mrs. Ralph Layman. Ensign Layman was home on leave, which was extended after Mrs. Layman was taken to the hospital, so he got to see his new girl before he left for parts unknown. An announcement sent to us Tuesday reveals that the baby is to be called Connie Janine.

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Ensign Ralph Layman has been in these parts during the past week. We are told that his wife and baby and his mother, Mrs. Gae Layman will accompany him to Miami, Florida, where he will be stationed.

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Ensign Ralph Layman, his mother Mrs. Gae Laymen and Ralph’s baby girl, Connie Janine, who will be nine months old June 8, all of Miami, Fla., and Mrs. Fanny Collier were callers on friends here Thursday afternoon. Ralph is on a 14 day sick leave. His wife who has also been with him in Florida, did not come over that day, but visited in Spencer.

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Ensign Ralph Layman was in town Saturday. He is no longer Ensign, however, as he recently received his medical discharge and will locate in Spencer. He was in and made us a nice visit Saturday.


Re: Forest T. Lewis

PFC Forest T. Lewis

Forest T. Lewis was born at Buffalo Center May 3, 1915. He graduated from Terril High School in 1933 and worked in the bank here for 8 ½ years.Forest T. Lewis.jpg

He went into the service January 20, 1942 and was sent to Camp Callen, California. He also took training at McChord Field, Washington. He is now stationed at Seattle, Washington. He was married last summer to Miss Neva Kluss.

His folks, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Lewis, live here. There are two sisters, Mrs. Roy Olson, and Beryl Lewis of Seattle. There is one brother, Roger at Camp Carson, Colorado.

“Bunk” as every one knows him, was home in December, looking fine.

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We had a nice long letter from Sgt. Forest Lewis at Seattle, Washington, Tuesday. He said he hoped we would not be forced to close the Record office for the duration. Well, we had hoped so too. He said Mrs. Lewis was visiting her folks in California for a week. We didn’t get to see Bunk when he was home, which is just one of those things that happen that way sometimes. No ill feelings on the part of anyone.

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Sgt. and Mrs. Forest Lewis left Monday night for Ft. Lewis, Washington after spending his short furlough with his folks here.


Re: Meryl Allen Lewis

PMeryl Allen Lewis.jpgfc. Meryl Allen Lewis, son of James A. Lewis was born near Terril, November 25, 1905. He attended Terril school and most of the time this has been his home.

Beside his father, he has a sister, Mrs. Clyde Clark and her family of Lake Park and brother Clifford and his family living here.

For most of his young manhood life he engaged in draying and trucking with his father and brother.

He was inducted at Ft. Des Moines, Nov. 27, 1942 and has taken his training at Camp Beale, California, where he is still located and is a tank driver. He was home in January of this year to see his father who has been quite ill.

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Cpl. Merly Lewis of Ft. Ord, Cal., came Wednesday evening the 19th for a fifteen day leave. He has to report back there for further orders by February 2.


Re: Roger S. Lewis

Roger Lewis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Lewis, was born February 20, 1921 in Terril. He graduated from the local school with the class of 1938.Roger S. Lewis.jpg

He worked around at various places among the Jolley, Montgomery, Terril, Spencer and Sioux City. He went to a meat cutting school in Toledo, Ohio.

Roger enlisted in the army September 26, 1942 at Des Moines and was first stationed at Camp Robinson Arkansas. He is now at Camp Carson, Colorado.

“Buddy” has one brother, Sgt. Forest Lewis at Seattle, Washington and two sisters, Mrs. Roy Olson of Terril and Beryl of Seattle, Wash.

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Pvt. Roger Lewis of Camp Carson, Colorado came last Wednesday evening for a short visit at the parental Roy Lewis home. He left Sunday for Camp Carson.


Re: James Weldon Lewis

James Weldon Lewis.jpgJames Weldon Lewis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Lewis was born in Terril November 24, 1920. He attended Terril school and graduated with the class of 1938.

He worked at the Brown Dairy and at Chapmans Produce. He left for North Carolina about three years ago where he worked at Camp Davis. After it was completed, he went to work at the New River Marine Base as drag line operator. He worked there until his enlistment in the Navy in August of 1942 at Norfolk, Virginia. He then attended the Naval Hospital Corps school at Portsmouth, Va., and finished his hospital training in Parris Island, S. Carolina. He was then sent to San Francisco, Cal., and is now stationed with the Fleet Marines at Camp Elliot near San Diego Cal., where he is taking up field medicine.

Weldon has one sister, Mrs. Leo Simpson living near Terril. His parents live in New River, North Carolina.

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Weldon Lewis Happy in Navy

November 7, 1942

Dear Mrs. Grow:

I received the paper this morning and it sure seemed good to read the Terril news again.

I am now in Portsmouth, Va., going to school.  We really have a swell place to stay.  It is a  new building and cost a million dollars.  The Navy built it especially for the Hospital Corps school.  They sure are particular about it too, it is up to we students to keep it clean, so I’m pretty well acquainted with a mop.

I will go to school here for 6 weeks providing I made good enough grades.  I will then be sent to sea as a medical corpsman or be transferred to the Marine Corps.  I am in class 8 hours a day and we also have to go to a study hall 2 hours each night.  The toughest subject of the five we have if Metrology and Matarice Medica.  Some of these medical names and formulas are a mile long.

I like the navy fine and the chow is the best there is.  I wish there was a few more boys from the north here though, I don’t stand a chance in arguments.

Hope you folks are OK,

As Ever,

Weldon

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Terril High Grad Makes Good Grades

A letter from Mrs. Walter Lewis dated December 2 at New River, North Carolina, says they are well and busy.  She puts in several hours a week in Red Cross work, besides her regular routine work.

They will  not get to come home for Christmas as they had planned as work shapes up so in Walt’s job that he can not get away.

Weldon has finished his hospital course at Portsmouth and is being sent to the Marine Hospital at Parris Island, South Carolina for actual duty and experience.

He has a record to be proud of in his work at Portsmouth.  Of a class of graduates of 350, he was one of thirty-five who mad honor roll with an average of 96 and of the whole class there were but two who had a rating of 99 in nursing and he was one of them.

This shows that a high school graduate can do good work if he puts his mind and heart into it.  We are glad to pass the word along that another of our Terril boys is going places.

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Service Salutes

V-Mail from Weldon Lewis

October 25, 1943

Dear Grows:

I’ve been going to write you folks a few lines for some time now, but I’ll be darned if I can ever think of anything to say.  Boy this letter writing now is a headache.  I do try to keep mly folks and a few more informed but that’s about all now.  How have you folks been?  I wonder about everyone a lot.  A guy does have quite a little time to think and re-live the fun he had at home.  I’ve had a lot of swell buddies in service but still nothing will ever be like the old gang.  Do you get much word from the Red Cross about Pat?  I surely hope he is getting half way decent treatment and care.  Poor Pat, he’s surely had the worst of it and all of us guys from Terril have a soft spot for him.  I’ve sort of lost track of most of the fellows but I guess Bud and Geddy are overseas now, I heard from Suds once.

Boy it will be the day when we get the old gang together.  Thanks for the paper, it sure means a lot.

Hope this finds you all best ever,

As Ever,

Weldon

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Mrs. Walter Lewis who had not heard from their son, Weldon, for about 6 weeks, brought us a part of a letter received this week, which reads as follows: “I was transferred to a swell outfit of fella’s and officers. This company was awarded the president’s citation for their good work in previous engagements and it’s the only medical company that has received this honor so far. So I am quite proud to be one of them.”

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Mrs. Walter Lewis told us that their son, Weldon, who is a Marine, somewhere in the South Pacific wrote then that he got 66 letters, cards, and Christmas packages all on one mail. The oldest was dated August 3 and the last one December 13. He had gone five weeks without mail and then got it all at once. Don’t know if all the boys fared so well. If they did, it must have been a busy and happy bunch of Marines.

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Walt Lewis folks had a letter from Weldon Sunday. He is still in the Pacific.

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June 28, 1945

Mr. and Mrs. Walter Lewis have had word from their son Weldon that he is as far as Hawaii on his second trip to the South Pacific


Re: George Lee Liddle

PFC George Lee Liddle

George Lee Liddle.jpgGeorge Lee Liddle was born August 29, 1924 in Estherville. He is the son of Mrs. Elmira Liddle of Terril and Art Liddle of Lake Park.

He attended school in Terril and Arnolds Park and graduated from that place with the class of 1942.

George Lee has worked around here at various places and in the ship yards at Portland, Oregon.

He enlisted February 17, 1943 and was inducted into the army February 23 at Fort Des Moines.

He was stationed at Miami Beach, Florida and then at Panama City and is now at Sheppard Field.

Wichita Falls, Texas. He is a graduate gunner in the Army Air Corps.

George Lee has two sisters, Geraldine and June and one brother, Arthur.

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Sgt. George Lee Liddle returned to Salt Lake City, Utah after a weeks visit with friends and relatives here and at Spirit Lake.

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George Lee Liddle Now Aviation Cadet

George Lee Liddle has passed his final tests and was called July 26 to take his training. His basic training began on that date, after which he has 3 to 5 months college and following that he takes his flight training.

All of Terril should be glad of this chance for “Sonny” as he’s been one of those kids who maybe didn’t have so much of a chance when growing up.

He has always been smart, and by that we mean smart beyond his years in his reading and observations and now he has an opportunity to put his ability to a use of which we are all proud.

He is a graduate gunner and received his silver wings in May of this year.

Perhaps one outstanding thing about George Lee, to us, was his hero worship of our boy Pat and when his mother insisted on a reason for his wanting to enlist he finally told her, “Well, Mom, if you want to know why I want to get in the war those ____ have our Pat and I want to get a chance at them. They can’t get away with that.” Maybe big talk for an 18 year old, but the government wants the 18 year olds, so why should they not have a reason, and tell what it is, why they want to get into this unholy mess.

Mrs. Liddle has several clippings George Lee has written for the Post Exchange at Sheppard Field, from his squadron, which show a remarkable vocabulary and use of English.

Now if nothing happens to spoil him, we are hoping for better and greater things for George Lee Liddle.

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George Lee Liddle who is stationed at Sheppard Field, Texas, is ill with appendicitis.

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We received a letter from George Lee Liddle, who is now located at LeGrande, Oregan, the first of the week. He seemed very interested in his school work and glad of the opportunities which it presents. He was also very thrilled at our getting even the very little word from “Pat.”

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George Lee Liddle received his sergeant stripes January 1.

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Sgt. George Lee Liddle came Friday from Lowrey Field, Denver Colo., for a fifteen day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Elmira Liddle at Spirit Lake. He goes from here to Salt Lake City, Utah.


Re: Ted Loudermilk

August 13, 1942

Terril Boys with Flying Colors

Corporal Ted Loudermilk is the picture this week. He has been around Terril since 1936. He was born at Chatsworth, Ill. 23 years ago, where his mother Mrs. Clem Spense and one sister and brother still reside.Ted Loudermilk.jpg

When he came here he worked for Chas, Watson and made many friends in the community. He was married to Evelyn Swartz August 2, 1941.

He volunteered in selective service February 3, 1941. Part of his training was taken at Ft. Snelling, Minn. and for awhile he was at camp McCoy, Wis. In April of this year he went to Ft. Riley Kans. and is now M.P. instructor at that camp.

He has had frequent visits here a short time ago. Mrs. Loudermilk since his enlistment and was home but expects to join him in a couple of weeks and remain with him there.

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Mrs. Ted Loudermilk and Marie and Beth Swartz left Thursday for Kalamazoo, Michigan to join Ted, who is stationed at Ft. Custer, Mich.

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Born Wednesday, November 29 to Sgt. and Mrs. Ted Loudermilk, a son at the Spirit Lake hospital. Sgt. Laudermilk is in England and Mrs. Loudermilk and children are making their home at the Frank Swartz home.

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January 18, 1945

Teddy Loudermilk

Missing in Action

Word came from the War Department to Mrs. Teddy Loudermilk, Saturday January 13, that her husband S-Sgt. Loudermilk was missing in action as of December 21 in Germany.

Teddy Loudermilk was married to Evelyn Swartz Aug. 2, 1941. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Clem Spence of Chatsworth, Illinois. There are 5 brothers and 3 sisters, one brother, Sherman, lives at Spencer.

The last letter which Evelyn had was written December 6 and received Christmas day.

He volunteered in selective service February 3, 1941. He was stationed at Ft. Snelling, Minnesota, Camp McCoy, Wis. Ft. Riley, Kansas and Ft. Custer, Michigan while in this country. He went overseas October 16, 1944. S. Sgt. and Mrs. Loudermilk have two children, Marie Kay, 20 months old and Dale Lee 7 weeks old, whom his father has never seen.

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April 12, 1945

A letter from Mrs. Ted Loudermilk at Lakefield, Minn., Wednesday says that she got word from her husband S/Sgt. Teddy Loudermilk and that he is a prisoner of war in Germany. The card was written January 10 and he seemed in fairly good health and spirits when he wrote:

S. Sgt. Teddy Laudermilk, liberated German Prisoner, Now Home

May 14, 1945

Staff Sergeant Teddy Laudermilk got home from Germany Friday. He was a prisoner from December 20, 1944 to April 13, 1945 in Stalag 7-A. he is with his wife and children at Lakefield, Minnesota and has visited relatives here a couple times this week. He has to report to Hot Springs, Arkansas in 60 days. He is some thinner, but reports no actual personal violence, but says that all reports of atrocities may be believed.

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July 1945

Ted Laudermilk has received his discharge from the army at Chaffie, Arkansas. He will work in Spencer at the Wood Elevator Co.


Re : Lynn Lundstrom

April 20, 1944

Lynn Lundstrom Commissioned as Second Lieut.

Lynn Lundstrom.jpgLynn Lundstrom, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Lundstrom a of Spencer, formerly of Spirit Lake, was graduated and received his commission as a second lieutenant in the army air corps at Pecos, Texas, on Saturday. Lt. and Mrs. Lundstrom arrived in Iowa Monday and are guests in Spencer of his parents, and in Terril of Mrs. Lundstrom’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adrian Kreiger, and are also visiting Spirit Lake friends.

Lt. Lundstrom received his primary and basic training at the Cal-Aero Academy at Ontario, Calif. He will report April 27 at the B-17 transition school at Roswell, New Mexico, for advanced instruction in the flying of these four motored bombers.

He reports that his brother, Claire, has just completed his primary training at Waco, Texas, and has been transferred to San Angelo, for his basic training. A third brother, Dale Lundstrom is in the army medical corps stationed at Camp Atterbury, Ind.

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August 10, 1944

Lt. Lynn Lundstrom and Mrs. Lundstrom of Roswell, New Mexico, arrived Sunday by car for a visit with their folks here and at Spencer. When Lt. Lundstrom leaves next Sunday he will report to Lincoln, Nebraska.

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August 10, 1944

Lt. and Mrs. Lynn Lundstrom came from Roswell, New Mex. Saturday for a surprise visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.A. Lundstrom in Spencer and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adrian Krieger in Terril. Lt. Lunstrom is entoute to Lincln, Nebr., to report for further duty, and will report there August 17. They are occupying a cottage at the lakes while here and visiting former Spirit Lake friends.

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December 21, 1944

Born Wednesday, Dec. 20 to Lieut. and Mrs. Lynn Lundstrom a 7lb. son at a Spencer hospital. Lieut. Lunndstrom has been overseas for a few weeks. Mrs. Lundstrom is staying with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adrian Krieger.

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April 5, 1945

Mrs. Lynn Lundstrom received word this week that Lynn has been promoted to 1st Lt. He also received the Air Medal which is awarded after successfully completing five combat missions. He is first pilot on a B-17 and is stationed in Italy with the 15th A.A.F.

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June 14, 1945

Lieut. Lynn A. Lundstrom, pilot on a B -17 has been appointed to a transport group and will help ferry men from the Mediterranean area back to the United States. The bomb bays are being cleared for luggage and each B-17 will bring home 15 men. His group is to bring home fifth army men. The bombers will fly a trip of 1,500 air miles from their European base to the United States. The pilots were chosen because of their availability and battle efficiency records. The lieutenant is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A.A. Lundstrom now of Spencer, formerly of Spirit Lake.

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September 27, 1945

Mrs. Lynn Lundstrom received a telephone call from her husband, Lt. Lundstrom, Monday night from West Palm Beach, Florida. He has just returned to this country and will go from there to Ft. Sheridan, Ill. And will be home probably the later part of the week.

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October 4, 1945

Lynn Lundstrom is home from overseas and dividing his time between his folks at Spencer and her folks here. He has received his discharge.

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November 1945

Lynn Lundstrom arrived home from California Thanksgiving day, discharged from the army.


Re: Vernon Maas

February 1943

Terril Boys Now With the Flying Colors Vernon Maas.jpg

Vernon Maas was born September 5, 1912 on a farm near Terril. After his graduation from the local high school in 1931 he attended Estherville Junior college and the University of Iowa.

He enlisted in the army November 19, 1940 in Los Angeles, California and was sent to the Reception Center at Fort MacArthur, California. From there he was sent to Fort Ordin the same state and then to Camp Murray, Washington. From there he was sent Alaska but is now in Aberdeen, Maryland for an 8 weeks course in ordnance.

Vernon’s father, Charles Maas lives here and also two brothers, Harley and Art are residents of Terril. He has one other brother, Everett, who with his family live at Moneta.

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February 18, 1943

Vernon (Bow) Maas came home Monday evening for a furlough before he returns to Alaska. He has been in Maryland for the past several weeks after being stationed in Alaska for several months.

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February 25, 1943

A dinner party was given at the Harley Maas home Sunday for Vernon Maas who is home on a 15 day leave.

Decorations were carried out in military theme.

Present were Mr. and Mrs. Everett Maas and children of Moneta, Art Maas, Vernon Maas, Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Hewitt and Eva and Mr. and Mrs. Andy Reinken and son.

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April 1945

T/4 Vernon Maas arrived home Monday night from Ft. Ord, California on a week’s furlough.

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November 1945

Vernon Maas received his discharge from the service November 17 at Fort MacArthur, California.


Re: Marvin Mann

December 14, 1944

Marvin (Buck) Mann, Bm2-c came Monday to spend a 30 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Mann. Marvin has just returned from 26 months spent in the South Pacific. Mr. and Mrs. Mann met him in Sioux City.


Re: Harold D. March *

April 12, 1944

Avon Park, Fla., Army Air Field, Corporal Harold D. March, son of Mr. and Mrs. O. D. March, Terril, is undergoing final phase training as an aerial gunner at this overseas bomber crew training base.

A graduate of Terril Consolidated high school, March was a student prior to entering the service at Fort Leavenworth, July 1, 1944. Upon completion of his basic training, he was sent to the aerial gunnery school at Kingman, Arizona, from where he was transferred to this base.

On March 15 of this year he was promoted to the rank of corporal. He is assigned to Squadron “S” 325th AAF Base Unit here.


Re: Lt. Morris Marks

Five Reported Missing in Past 10 Days

Special to The Messenger

SPIRIT LAKE, March 24

Dickinson county homes have been hard hit by the war news and government official telegrams within the last 10 days. More bad news had been received than throughout the war period previously.

Last week Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Marks of Lake Park were advised that their son, Lt. Morris Marks was missing over Europe, as of Feb. 21.  He was pilot of a Flying Fortress and well along on his way toward 50 missions over Europe.  He was based in England.  A twin brother is Dr. Warren Marks of Emmetsburg.  The message was the first of its kind received in Lake Park.


RE: Dale Marsh

July 6, 1944

Dale Marsh left Friday for Amarillo, Texas to being is training.

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August 17, 1944

Terrril Boys in the Army and the Navy

Harold Dale Marsh

Dale Marsh his the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. O.D. Marsh and has lived around here most of his life. Two years he attended school in Arnolds Park, with C.E. Trimball and Geo. Clark as part of his teachers, and came here when they did. He graduated with the class of 1944.

When he was “just a kid” he helped Beryl Coleman, by running errands for the insurance office. He worked in the Farmers Cash store until one night he sliced his hand with the electric slicer and after that he just went to school. He was 18 in June and enlisted this year before school was out.

He has three brothers, Jesse, Gordon and Orville of Mulvane, Kansas and a sister, Grace, and their families besides pa and ma at home.

He’s another on of Terril’s kids whom we have seen from day to day practically ever since we came here and now he’s serving Uncle Sam and stationed at Amarillo, Texas.

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December 28, 1944

Pvt. Dale Marsh came Friday form Kingman, Arizona for a ten day furlough.


Re: Orville Marsh

Orville Marsh left Monday for Sheppard Field, Texas after a 20 day furlough.

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October 4, 1945

Mrs. Orville Marsh and daughter and her sister, Mrs. Willard Kabrick moved into the upstairs of the Morton building last week. Pvt. Kabrick came home last week from Shepard Field, Texas and Pvt. Marsh came Saturday night from the same camp. They have to report back to camp about Oct. 17.


Re: Gaylord Martin

Sunday, October 10

(received) October 15, 1942

Man in Service Writes EditorsGaylord D. Martin.jpg

Fort Riley, Kansas

Dear Grows;

This being just another lifeless Sunday, I will attempt to write a couple of lines to my friends who publish the Terril Record.

There is one thing that I want to thank the Grow crew for and that is the Terril Record. A fellow doesn’t realize how to appreciate a home town and can’t get back any time you want to.

Well, Grows when I was in civilian life I was a truck driver and things haven’t changed any for me as I’m still a truck driver.

I’m driving what the army calls a 4×6 of in other words a six wheel drive. It really is quite interesting work.

Thanking you again for the Record.

I remain:

Your ex-flunky

Gay Martin

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January 14, 1943

Terril Boys Now With the Flying Colors

Gaylord D. Martin

“Gay”, as he is known by everyone around Terril, is the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. M.M. Martin and was born May 6, 1920 in Terril.

He married Vera Hoiten of Superior on June 28, 1941. His daughter Gail Myra, was born November 11, 1942.

Gay has five sisters, Mrs. H.E. Edwards of San Bernardino, California; Mrs. Walter Baumunk of Clare; Mrs. Raymond Shoemaker of Storm Lake; Mrs. Chester Clausen of Terril and Mrs. Kerry Clark of Milford; and four brothers, Verl of Dayton, Amos of Storm Lake, and Glen and Arnold of Terril.

He was inducted into the armed forces September 4, 1942 and has been stationed at Ft. Riley, Kansas, since his induction.

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Gay Martin Teaches Recruits to Drive Trucks

Sunday, March 28th

received April 1943

Ft. Riley, Kansas

Dear Grows,

Guess it’s about time I wrote you folks a line or two. I admit that I surely have been neglecting my letter writing the past two weeks but here’s hoping I catch up pretty soon.

I surely want to thank you for the Record. I usually get it every Sunday morning, and it couldn’t come at a better time as Sunday here is about as dead as it used to be back in good old Terril. Reading the Record kills about half of my Sunday for me. I can’t think of a better way to kill time than reading about what the home town gang is doing. I think all the other boys that are away from home feel the same way.

Maybe you have wondered why I have been stationed here at Ft. Riley so long. Well, I’ll try to tell you without putting in things that are against all rules and regulations.

I am a 6×6 Instructor. In other words I teach new recruits to drive a 6×6 truck. It really is very interesting work. Bet you never figured Gay Martin would make a teacher. Well, I was almost as surprised at myself. The army has a way of teaching you to do almost everything.

I’m surely glad to hear you have heard news of Pat. Bet the whole thing looks brighter now.

I spent the most enjoyable week I have spent since I left home. My wife came down and stayed all week. I only wish that it was possible for all the boys in the service to get to see somebody form home once in awhile.

Must stop for now but tell all the folks at home “Hello” and thanks again for the Record. I surely do enjoy it.

As ever

Cpl. Gaylord Martin

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Service Salutes

Sgt. Gaylord Martin returned to Ft. Riley, Kansas, Thursday after spending a week at home and with his wife and daughter at Superior.

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December 7, 1944

Sgt. Gaylord Martin came home to Milford the fore part of the last week for a ten day furlough. He is stationed at Camp Campbell, Kentucky.

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March 7, 1945

Comment From Sgt. Gaylord Martin on Library Project

France

Dear Reverend Nelson:

Due to the thoughtfulness of Mr. and Mrs. Grow, I was fortunate enough to be among one of the many boys who received the “Terril Record” of January 25. In this issue there was a suggestion of a library as a memorial for the boys of the home town who are in, and have lost their lives in, all the far corners of the world.

Your suggestion has impressed myself along with many of the others over here.

The boys won’t forget things like that.

Sgt. Gaylord Martin

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December 13, 1945

Gaylord Martin is home and has received his discharge.

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December 13, 1945

Gaylord Martin goes to work at Montgomery Wards at Estherville today.


Re: Robert Mathis

January 22, 1944

Mrs. Robert. Mathis (Pauline Stroh) has received word that her husband was missing in action since December 27 in China. He was based in India.

March 10, 1944

Terril Record

Mr. and Mrs. M. M. Martin have received the announcement of the graduation of Lieut. Robert D. Mathis from Army Air Forces Training Center, Turner Field, Albany, Georgia on Sunday, March 12. Mrs. Mathis is the former, Pauline Stroh and is a granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin.

Feb. 15, 1945

Friends here have received word that Robert Mathis, husband of the former Pauline Stroh, was killed in an airplane crash over China. Pauline is living in Des Moines.


Re: Gerald (Jerry) McCoy

January 9, 1942

Jerry McCoy has enlisted in the army aviation Air Corp. He left Saturday for Bakers Field, California.

August 6, 1942

Commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant In Air CorpsGerald (Jerry) McCoy.jpg

Gerald (Jerry) William McCoy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank McCoy, who reside on a farm east of Milford, was graduated from the Victorville Army Flying school as a pilot, on Sunday, July 26, 1942 and received his commission as a second lieutenant in the Army Air Force Reserve.

Jerry graduated from the Terril high school in 1938. He previously attended the grade school at Milford. After finishing high school he attended Morningside college at Sioux City, Ia. where he was prominent in football and golf circles. He also played on the high school basketball and football teams.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces on January 3, 1942, and received instruction at the Mira, Loma Flying School, Oxnard, Calif., and the Lemoore Basic Flying School, before being sent to Victorville for advanced training.

Jerry was married on Saturday morning, July 25, to Miss Janet Anderson of Washta, Ia. at Victorville Calif. They were attended by a sister of the bride, Miss Sally Anderson of California, and the bridegroom’s sister Mrs. Chas. Partlow of Long Beach. The two Anderson young ladies have been visiting an aunt in the west.

Courtesy Milford Mail


Re: Kenneth W. McCoy

July 5, 1945

Former Terril Boy Killed on Okinawa

Mr. and Mrs. Orph McCoy of Clarkfield Minnesota formerly of Terril have received word of the death of their son, Pfc. Kenneth W. McCoy. He was killed the 23rd of May on Okinawa. Kenneth was with the 165 Infantry and had been in Okinawa about two months.

Kenneth entered service in September, 1944 and received his basic training at Camp Hood, Texas. He was home in January 1945 and then went to Fort. Ord, California, where he was sent overseas.

Kenneth is survived by his parents, four sisters, Mrs. Darrell Cushman of Dickens, Lucille, Coleen and July at home; four brothers, Leland, who leaves for service the 6th of July, Dale, Duane and Delbert at home. He also leaves one nephew, Larry Cushman and one niece, Sheryl Cushman, besides many other relatives and friends.

Kenneth was born April 3, 1923 at Terril and graduated from the local school with the class of 1940.

Memorial services will be held next Sunday, July 8 at 2 p.m. at the Methodist church in Clarkfield.

****

Memorial Services For Kenneth W. McCoy

A telegram to Mr. and Mrs. Orph McCoy, June 26th 1945, carried the sad message that their son, Pfc. Kenneth McCoy, had been killed in action, May 23, 1945, on the Island of Okinawa, off Japan.

Kenneth Wayne McCoy was born at Terril, Iowa, on April 3, 1923. He attended school at Terril, and graduated from the high school in that city in 1940. He also attended Sunday School and Church at the Methodist Church in Terril. Kenneth was prominent in school activities and sports. He also engaged in 4-H projects. In 1941 he moved from Iowa to the farm two miles north of Clarkfield, Minn., where his parents, brothers and sisters, now reside.

Kenneth entered the service of his country on September 12, 1944, being inducted at Fort Snelling. From there he was sent to Camp Hood, Texas, where he received 17 weeks basic training in the Infantry. After a 7-day furlough he reported to Fort Ord, California, and from there was sent over-seas to Oahu Island in the Hawaiian group.

After a short period of intensive training at Oahu Island, Kenneth was sent to the Marianna Islands and from there directly to Okinawa, where some of the most bitter fighting of the war took place. At Okinawa he was promoted to the rank of Private First Class in the 165th Infantry, Company B.

His last letter home was written May 7, 1945.

Surviving Pfc. Kenneth McCoy, besides his parents, are four sisters and four brothers: Mrs. Darrell Cushman, of Dickens, Iowa; Lucille, of Spencer, Iowa; Coleen and Judy at home: Leland, Dale Duane and Delbert, at home. He also leaves his grandparents: Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Paynter, of Jackson, Minn.; and Mrs. Ida McCoy, of Superior, Iowa, and a host of other relatives and friends.

 

Memorial Service

Sunday, July 8, 1945 : 2:00 p.m.

Clarkfield Norw. Evangelical Lutheran Church

Organ Music —- Mrs. A.H. Arneson

Advancing of Colors — By American Legion

Processional — Largo (Handel)

Altar Service —- Rev. J.E. Akre

Vocal Solo – “I know A Name” — Mr. Lyndon Lofdahl

Memorial Sermon —- Rev. L.B. Foreman

Vocal Solo – “God Understands” — Mrs. Arden Lynne

Presentation of Flag — American Legion

Mounting of Gold Star —- Sgt. Harris Mikelson

Vocal Number — Male Quartet

Song – “Jesus Savior, Pilot Me” —- Audience

Jesus Savior, Pilot me

Over life’s tempestuous sea

Unknown waves before me roll

Hiding rock and treacherous shoal

Chart and compass come from Thee

Jesus, Savior, Pilot me….

Benediction —- Rev. J.E.H. Akre

Taps — Mr. Marcus Arneson

Retiring Colors

Recessional —- “Behold the Host”

Kenneth W. McCoy.jpg

 

 

Re: Lawrence McVicker

October 11, 1945

Lt. Lawrence McVicker and Mrs. McVicker are visiting at the home of Mrs. Mcvicker’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gaylord Olson. Lt. McVicker returned from overseas about three weeks ago.


 

Re: Wm. C. Meyers 

March 12, 1942

Spirit Lake Beacon

Popular Milford Young Woman Wed March 1

Announcement was received by Milford relatives and friends last Thursday morning of the marriage of Miss Charlotte Miller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Miller of Terril and Lieut. William Meyers, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Meyers, Sr. of Milford.  The ceremony was performed on Wednesday, March 4, at the Catholic chapel at the air field in Greenville, Miss. The couple is now at home in an apartment at Greenville.

The bride was graduated from the Terril High school and later attended a beauty school in Omaha. For the past five years, she has been employed at the Esther Fellows Beauty Shop in Milford.

Lieut. Meyers was graduated from the Milford High school in 1936 and later attended Trinity college at Sioux City.  He was employed as clerk in the Jacobs Co. store in Milford for over a year, and then enlisted in the Flying Cadets.  He took his preliminary training at the Cal Aero Academy at Ontario, Calif., later being transferred to Stockton, where he was graduated on January 9, 1942, and received his wings. He was recently transferred to Greenville, Miss. where he is an instructor in the air corps.

 


Re: Maurice M. Miller

Tribune  

Appointee to United States military academy at West Point is Maurice M. Miller, son of Mr and Mrs. B.W. Miller of Terril, Ia.  He reported there July l.

Special to The Messenger:

TERRIL, Dec 15.

Maurice M. Miller.jpgLieutenant M.M. Miller of the U.S. army corps, who was killed in a plane crash between Miami, Fla., and Puerto Rico Thursday, was the son of Mr. and Mrs. B.W. Miller of Terril.

He is Dickinson county’s first casualty of the war.

Lieutenant Miller, a graduate of Terril high school, attended Coe college two years, He was a grid star at Coe and also at the army’s military academy at West Point.  Receiving an appointment to West Point, he was graduated two years ago.

Lieutenant Miller, who served in the air corps as a pilot and instructor, leaves eight brothers and sisters.

****

December 1941

Killed in airplane accident off coast of Puerto Rico on Thursday, December 11.

Memorial services at Terril Methodist Church Sunday Morning

The entire population of Dickinson county was shocked and grieved late Saturday afternoon when an official telegram from the U.S. War department was received by Mr. and Mrs. B.W. Miller of Terril, notifying them of the tragic death of their eldest son, Lieut. Maurice M. Miller.

The telegram stated that Maurice had been accidentally killed at sea on Thursday, December 11. A letter just previously received from Maurice, who was in the air service, stated he had flown a bomber to Miami, Fla. On Tuesday he started his return flight and when motor trouble developed he was forced to return to the Pan American airport at Miami. Repairs were to be made to the ship possibly by Wednesday and he planned to then return to Puerto Rico.

Sunday afternoon the Dickinson County Red Cross wired an inquiry to national headquarters seeking information regarding the accident and a wire early Monday morning stated the desired information would be forthcoming.

On Tuesday morning a second telegram was received by Mr. Miller from the war department, which stated that the bomber Maurice was flying had exploded in mid-air and was lost at sea.

*****

Lieut. Miller Fatally Injured in Plane Crash

Lieut. Maurice Miller, 26, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Miller, was killed in the service of his country according to a message received by his parents Monday.

Maurice was a brother of Walter Miller, who was one of our Junior College football stars in ’36 and ’37.  He was well known by many of the young people of our city having been reared in Terril and played football with the Terril team.

Maurice wrote his parents from Miami, Fla., a few days before his death.  At that time his plane was grounded for repairs.  There are no particulars about the loss of this pilot except the fact it was accidental.  The plane according to the notice fell in the ocean.

This brings the war closer to home for everyone.  The loss of one of our local boys makes the feeling of our people more bitter.  With the Japs revenge will be sweet and the limit none too far to go.

All the talk now is war and all any one thinks about is war and the taxes.  Maybe if the radio did not talk so much about the taxes we would take them better when the time comes.  We have to fight and to fight we have to pay.  It is just one of those things, so guess it is no use to worry.  Other nations have had to put up with the war for a long time and from appearances it will be a  long time yet.

****

Memorial services will be held at the Methodist church in Terril next Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Harvey Nelson will officiate.

Maurice M. Miller eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben W. Miller, of Terril, Iowa, was born January 3, 1915, at Lodgepole, S.D. He came to Terril with his parents in 1915. His school work at home was completed in 1932 when he graduated from the Terril High school. The next three years he spent attending Coe college at Cedar Rapids. In the fall of 1935 Maurice received an appointment to the West Point U.S. Military Academy, where he played as a member of the Army football team, and was graduated with the class of 1939.

Following the completion of Maurice’s military education he entered the air force of the U.S. Army as a First Lieutenant. His basic training was received at Kelly and Ranlolph Fields in Texas. During the summer of 1940 he last visited home, and was then stationed with the 110th Bombardment Squadron at Borinquen Field in Puerto Rico, where he remained until his fatal accident.

He leaves besides his parents, four brothers, Walter, who is stationed with the U.S. Army at the Portland Air Base, Portland, Ore.; Donald, Franklin and Kenneth at home. Four sisters, Charlotte, at Milford; Rose, at Sioux City, and Ruth and Marjorie at home.

Maurice is well remembered by many people throughout the county because of his participation in athletics while attending the Terril school. His life is one that his parents, brothers and sisters, as well as the entire country can well be proud of. Every year of his life as his record clearly shows, was spent in gaining knowledge, going ahead, becoming a better citizen, and training to be a protector of his country for which he gave his life. To acquire all this was no easy task, but Maurice was capable and filled with the desire. Yet, with all his work, ambitions, and attainments, his home was never forgotten. News from his was regularly received, and every member of the family of which he was a part, was always in his mind.

The entire community extends sympathy to the bereaved family. The memory of Maurice M. Miller will be cherished.

****

Memorial Service for

Lieut. Maurice Miller

December 1941

Short but impressive services were held at the Methodist church Sunday morning in memory of First Lieut. Maurice M. Miller, who lost his life December 11 in an air plane crash near Puerto Rico.

Rev. Harvey Nelson, Everett Maas and C.E. Trimble gave short talks. Rev. Nelson on Maurice’s relationship and loyalty to the local church, the fact that the money given to each player on the West Point football team each year for benevolent purposes, Maurice always sent his to his local church. Everett Mass spoke of his sportsmanship on the local fields and throughout the county when both the boys were in school and the esteem in which he was held by fellow students and team mates. C.E. Trimble spoke in some what the same vein, when meeting him in various sports activities throughout the county. C.B. Christian superintendent of schools at West Union, who was superintendent here when Maurice was in high school sent a message to be read at the service.

M. Alice Cole, who was principal during Maurice’s high school years camp up from Pocahontas for the service.

Relatives of Mr. Miller who were able to be here Sunday were Mr. and Mrs. W.F. Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Denzel Miller and J.C. Miller of Ruthven, Charlotte was home from Milford and Rose from Sioux City.

Mr. and Mrs. Miller sent an air mail letter to their son Walter, December 13, who was then located at Portland, Oregon. A reply was received Monday from him from Everett, Washington. The letter did not reach him until December 19.


Re: Merle Miller

February 1, 1945 

Private Merle Miller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lennie Miller of Ruthven, was killed in Belgium January 6, a recent message revealed. He had been overseas about a month. Mr. and Mrs. Lennie Miller left Friday evening for Prairie du Chien, Wis., for a short visit with Mrs. Merle Miller and son, the wife and child of Merle were residing there while he was in the army. Ruthven people are sorry to learn of this young man’s death. He had many friends. Merle was a nephew of Ben Miller of Terril, as Lennie Miller is Ben’s youngest brother.


Re: Walter N. Miller

December 17, 1942

Terril Boys Now With The Flying Colors

Walter N. Miller.jpgWalter N. Miller second son of Mr. and Mrs. B.W. Miller, was born at Terril October 1, 1919. He graduated from Terril high with the class of ’36. Following this he had two years at Estherville Junior College and one year at Drake University.

He enlisted in Des Moines in January 1940. From there he went to California and then to Chanute Field, Bellville, Illinois where he graduated from the mechanics school in October 1940. He was then at Hamilton Field, California, Portland, Oregon, Indianapolis, Indiana and McChord Field, Washington.

He is now Master Sergeant in the Air Corp at McChord Field.

He was married September 2 of this year to Miss Florence Dooley of Estherville.

Walt has four sisters, Charlotte, Mrs. Bill Meyers of Greenville, Miss. Rose, Mrs. Venon Boston of Sioux City; Ruth a student at Buena Vista and Marjorie at home. There are three brothers, Donald, Franklin and Kenneth. His oldest brother, Lt. Maurice Miller was killed in a dawn patrol flight off Puerto Rico December 11 of last year.

All of the Miller children are well known here and Walt is another of Terril’s boys whom we are proud to own.

****

October 12, 1944

An Eighth Air Force Fighter Station, England

Walter N. Miller of Terril, Ia., has received a direct commission as a second lieutenant in the Air Corps. He has been a warrant officer.

Lieutenant Miller is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben W. Miller of Terril and the husband of Mrs. Florence E. Miller, 507 North Eighth St. Estherville, Iowa.

The Iowa officer is a squadron engineering officer in the Eighth Fighter Command P-51 Mustang fighter group headed by Col. George T. Crowell of Chicago, Ill. His job is to supervise maintenance on the single-engine fighters so the planes will be ready to perform at their best when ever needed over Germany.

Planes in this group, including Lt. Miller’s squadron, recently set a new distance record for British-based fighters. In setting the new mark, pilots flew a 1,600 mile round trip while escorting bombers over Gdynia Poland.

Lieutenant Miller entered the army in January of 1940 and has been in England for the past year. He is a graduate of Terril High school and attended Estherville Junior College, Estherville.

His father is a rural mail carrier.

****

March 15, 1945

An Eighth air Force Fighter Station, England

Promotion of Walter N. Miller, 25, Terril, Eighth Air Force squadron engineering officer, from the rank of second lieutenant to first lieutenant, has been announced here.

Mrs. Florence E. Miller, the lieutenant’s wife, lives at 507 N. 8th St., Estherville, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Miller, live in Terril. After graduation from Terril High School, the Iowan attended Estherville Junior College.

Lt. Miller entered the Army Air Forces as an enlisted man in January 1940, and has been in the European Theatre of Operations since September 1943.

While with a squadron of the 55th Fighter Group, he was appointed warrant officer and received a direct commission. His job consists mainly of supervising the maintenance and repair of his squadron’s P-51 Mustang fighter planes.

More than 345 Luftwaffe planes have been destroyed by the 55th’s Mustang pilots, with whom Lt. Miller’s squadron flies. Air victories of the group number upward of 260. Since January 1, 1945, the group destroyed more than 450 of Hitler’s locomotives, 170 of which were wrecked in a recent two day period.

Recently, the group shot down the first “pick-a-back” (Focke-Wulf 190 fighters atop Junkers 88 bombers) bagged by the Eighth Air Force. Of the six such combinations encountered by the 55th, five were destroyed. The 55th Fighter Group is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Elwyn G. Righetti, San Luis Obispo, California.

****

May 16, 1946

Serving with “SHOOTING STAR” Squadron

First Lieutenant Walter N. Miller, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.W. Miller of Terril is now stationed at March Field, California where he is assigned as Assistant Engineering Officer with the 39th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron which is attached to the 412th Fighter Group (P-80 Jet) to the Fourth Air Force. This squadron has the unique distinction of being the only Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron in the country employing the P-80 jet-propelled aircraft a present.

The P-80, widely known as the Shooting Star, is the only plane capable of approaching the speed of sound and recently broke the transcontinental record by flying from California to New York in four hours, 18 minutes and 13 seconds. Further test are scheduled to take place in order to determine its top speed.

Lieutenant Miller was born at Terril and attended the Terril High School where he graduated in 1936. He later attended the Estherville Junior college for two years. He entered the Army in January 1940 as a private. He attended the Aircraft Maintenance course at Chanute Field, Illinois in 1940 and the Allison Engine School at Indianapolis, Indiana. During this time he held all the enlisted grades and was appointed Warrant Officer in December 1942. He served as a mechanic and aircraft inspector with the 55th Fighter Group before shipping overseas in September 1943. While in England he attended the Packard Merlin Engine school at Burtonwood, England in 1944. He was given a direct commission as Second Lieutenant while overseas. He was promoted to First Lieutenant in February of 1945 and served as Engineering Officer for the 55th Fighter Group both in England and in Germany, Lieutenant Miller returned to the States in November 1945, and after taking his leave was assigned to the 39th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron at March Field.

Lieutenant Miller has made an enviable record for himself in the service. His awards and decorations include the European Theater Ribbon with six Battle Stars, Presidential Unit Citation with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal, Pre Pearl Harbor Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon and the Victory Ribbon.

Lieutenant Miller is married and resides with his wife at Arlington, California, His wife is the former Miss. Florence Dooley of Estherville.

July 18, 1946

Lt. and Mrs. Walter Miller came from Chanute Field, Illinois, and visited a few days with relatives here, at Estherville and Spirit Lake. Lt. Miller returned Saturday for three week’s more training. Mrs. Miller will spend the time with her folks Estherville. At the end of his training Walt will be home for a time.

August 8, 1946

Lt. Walter Miller came Saturday from Chunte Field, Ill. To visit his wife at Estherville and his parents here.

August 22, 1946

Walter Miller Graduates From Chanute Field School

Walter Miller, 1st Lt., son of Mr. and Mrs. B.W. Miller, has completed training and has been graduated from the Army Air Forces Training Command school. While attending this Army Air Forces Training and has been graduated from the Army Air Forces Training Command School. While attending this Army Air Forces Training Command school he received instruction in the P-80 Course, and in various technical operations vital to the maintenance of the country’s fighting planes. Chanute Field Public Relations Office.

Walter N. Miller

Walter N. Miller second son of Mr. and Mrs. B.W. Miller, was born at Terril October 1, 1919. He graduated from Terril high with the class of ’36. Following Junior College and one year at Frake University.

He enlisted in Des Moines in January 1940. From there to Chanute Field, Bellville, Illinois where he graduated from the mechanics school in October 1940. He was then at Hamilton Field, California, Portland, Oregon, Indianapolis, Indiana and McChord Field, Washington. He is now Master Sergeant in the Air Corp at McChord Field, Washington. He was married September 2 of this year to Miss Florence Dooler of Estherville. Walt has four sisters, Charlotte, Mrs. Bill Meyers of Greenville, Miss. Rose, Mrs. Vernon Boston of Sioux City; Ruth, a student at Buena Vista and Marjorie at home. There are three brothers. Donald, Franklin and Kenneth. His oldest brother, Lt. Maurice Miller was killed in a dawn patrol flight off Puerto Rico December 11 of last year.

All of the Miller children are well known here and Walt is another of Terril’s boys whom we are proud to own.

Miller-Dooley Marriage Held

The wedding of Miss Florence C. Dooley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. Dooley of Estherville, and Tech. Sgt. Walter N. Miller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Miller of Terril, took place Wednesday, September 2, at the McChord Field chapel at Tacoma, Washington. Chaplain Charles C. Erb of the 55th Fighter group at Olympia, Wash., read the double ring ceremony.
Flowers of numerous kinds adorned the altar for the exchange of vows. The organist played “The Bridal Chorus” from “Wagner’s Lohengrin” for the processional and “The Wedding March” from “Midsummer Nights Dream” by Mendhlssohn as the recessional. “Ava Maria” by Gonrad also was played.
The bride wore white flannel street length dress with brown accessories and a corsage of roses and gardenias. Her jewelry was a locket, a gift from the bridegroom, and a gold bracelet worn by her mother at her marriage.
Attending the bride was Mrs. James Cranston of Minneapolis, Minn., who wore a navy blue flannel suit with blue accessories and a corsage of roses.
Staff Sgt. Cranston was best man. The bridegroom and his attendant wore dress uniforms of their rank in the army air corps.
A wedding dinner was served at 9:30 p. m. at the Olympia Hotel at Olympia Wash.
Mrs. Miller attended the Estherville schools and as graduated from the high school at St. James, Minn. She is a graduate of the Estherville Junior College and prior to her marriage was cashier and bookkeeper at the S-L. store.
Sgt. Miller is a graduate of the Terril high school and the Estherville Junior college where he was prominent in athletics. He attended Drake University before entering the army corps and he is now technical inspector for the 37th fighter squadron at Olympia.
The bridal couple will be at home after Sept. 9 at the Park Manor apartments at Olympia.

****

We received a very nice card from Willie Pedersen and a very nice letter from Walter Miller last week. They were taken to the house instead of the office and where they may be now we just couldn’t say. Neither of these boys write very often so we were particularly glad to hear from them. Walter is in England hoping he’ll meet up with Geddy Taylor and Buddy Cruse.


Re: Carlyle Moore

June 17, 1943

(received) June 24, 1943

Carlyle Moore Writes a Letter
Iowa City, Iowa
Dear Grows,

I suppose you wondered who you could be getting a letter from with an address like mine – postmarked as it is from Iowa City.Carlyle C. Moore.jpg Well, in way of explanation, I was a member of the Advanced Reserve Officer’s Training Corps here in the university up until our call to active service on May 6th. Is was theirs, the army’s, plan at that time to initiate us to true army life before sending us to officers candidate school on June 1st. Well, it came June 1st and we were all set to pull out for Ft. Benning, Georgia which, as you know, is the most widely known and publicized Officers Training school in the world, when the last minute we received a telegraphic order from the adjutant general’s office in Washington, D.C. telling us that all training schools were full to capacity and there would be no opening for us until early fall. So, you see, we’re stuck here. The army is sending us to school so it really isn’t to bad. I will graduate with my Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy next month. Will also receive a minor degree in chemistry.

I am expecting to come home in August for a two weeks furlough, so save up that old fishing spirit, George, and we’ll try our luck then. How has the luck been so far?

You can’t imagine how the war has changed the complexion of our university’s campus, Mrs. Grow. What used to be peaceful and quiet with only civilians about is now nothing but a mass of soldiers and Naval air cadets. All professional schools are under army and navy jurisdiction and students are in uniform as of July 1st. A civilian, at least a young one, is a creation which is very rare and is one to be pitied in such a concentration of service men.

I hope that you are all OK and I do hope to drop in and see you before too many weeks have passed.

I’m just a jolly private – trying to work my way up in the world.

Respectfully yours,

Pvt. Carlie Moore

****

May 17, 1944

(received) May 25, 1944

Carlyle Moore Writes

Dear Mrs. Grow,

I was just sitting in my room tonight thinking of how good it would be to have the old home town paper to read. You see, in my numerous shifting around I haven’t received any of the Terril papers for at least the last four weeks. Thought I would drop you my new address.

a member to the nationally famous Rainbow Division of World War 1 that has been reactivated and is training here now. I understand it is a rugged outfit and what I’ve seen of it so far, I can see no one was kidding. I start to Divisional school next week which lasts for a month at this school, we have a complete course in weapons, etc. tossed at us both night and day. Well at least we’ll have a chance to get our feet on the ground. Ha!

Suppose the coming of summer finds the Grow household busy around good old Terril – Sure with this thing would get straightened out soon because I believe every one is kinda tired of it all.

me.

As ever, one of the boys

Carlie

****

June 7, 1944

Carlyle Moore Graduates Officers Training School

Fort Benning, Ga. Carlyle C. Moore of Terril, was commissioned a second lieutenant in the army of the United States January 21 upon successful completion of the officer Candidate Course at The Infantry school at Ft. Benning. Lt. Moore is the son of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore of Terril.

The new lieutenant enlisted in the army on May 6, 1943 and served with the ROTC unit before going to Officer candidate school four months ago. He hold the rank of Cpl. Before being commissioned.

The new officer is a graduate of Lloyd Township Consolidated school in Terril and State University of Iowa at Iowa City, where he was prominent as a member of Rho Chi honorary Pharmaceutical fraternity and in intramural sports.

At The Infantry School, world’s largest institution of its kind, the local officer took a four months’ course to fit him for his new responsibilities. The course covers the technique of handling all the varied modern infantry weapons and the tactics of leading small infantry units in combat. It also includes study of many varied subjects which future officers must know along the lines of administration, military law, etc.

****

June 15, 1944

Terril Boys in the Army and Navy

Carlyle C. Moore

Carlyle C. Moore, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore, was born on a farm near Terril November 13, 1921. He went through Terril school and graduated with the class of 1939. He then attended college at Ames for one year, after which he entered the university at Iowa City. He graduated from Pharmacy College in ’43.

Carlyle enlisted in Reserve R.O.T.C. May 11, 1942 and was called to active duty May 6, 1943, being sent to Ft. Benning, Georgia. Now he is stationed at Camp Gruber, Oklahoma. Became a second lieutenant January 21, 1944.

Carlyle has three brothers, Lt. Leland Moore at Randolph Field, Texas, Lt. Leslie Moore in New York and Wayne, who lives near Terril.

****

August 3, 1944

Lt. Carlyle Moore came from Camp Gruber, Okla. Thursday to visit his folks for a week. He was accompanied by Miss. Lillian Anderson, R.N. of Burlington. When Carlyle goes back, he tells us he expects to be sent out this week. Nurse Anderson did not come in her professional capacity.

****

November 13, 1944

(received)November 30, 1944

Carlyle Moore Writes From Belgium

Somewhere in Belgium

Dear Mrs. Grow and all,

Just finished writing Mom and Dad so thought I’d drop you a line on this cold damp blustery day, the 23rd anniversary of my birthday.

Since leaving the good old U.S.A., I have been in England, Scotland, Wales, Normandy, France and now Belgium. Comparing the people of all; their ways of doing things and the treatment they extend Yankee soldiers, I would place the Belgians head and shoulders above the rest. They really are swell and its quite evident that their good will is genuine.

We really have quite a time speaking to them but by a combination of waving our arms and a few French words, we get what we want.

If you could and would, I would like very much if you would either give Mom, or send it yourself, Geddy Taylor’s address. I know that he is somewhere in our neighborhood, but would like to find him and any of the other Terril boys near here. So long for now. It won’t be long here anymore.

As always,

Carlyle Moore

****

March 1, 1945

Mrs. W.E. Moore tells us that Carlyle has been promoted to first lieutenant. His regiment was cited for bravery by Generals Montgomery, Hodges, Patton and DeGaulle.

March 11, 1945

Deep in Germany

My Dear Grows,

Am in the letter writing mood this morning, Sunday. Church services aren’t until this afternoon so thought of writing you folks a line.

The past few days have seen a great many changes in the situation over here and things are definitely shaping up fast. For example, 5 days ago, my Bn. was assigned to mission to clear the last belt of German pillboxes comprising the Siegfried line that we did with very little difficulty. 3 days later we had pushed some forty miles deeper into Germany. We, that is my mortar platoon, are now living in a large hotel temporarily. Electricity, phones, nasty old beds with sheets, you can’t imagine after living mostly in foxholes. We have several German motorcycles and automobiles and are enjoying playing with them. I have been on their border. Verdun, the great battlefield of World War 1 is just as they left it then.

Tell everyone hello and best wishes.

Carlee Moore

****

Mrs. Wayne Moore told us Monday that they had received a letter from Carlyle that day. He was in France. Said he walked there. The last word before, he was in Belgium. It took him four days and four nights. He wore several suits of underwear and all the clothes available and when sleeping used two sleeping bags.

****

May 30, 1945

Lt. Carlyle Moore Still in Germany

Dear Mrs. Grow & Friends at Terril,

Now that V-E day has come and in now a number of days in the past, I imagine every one of you are patiently wondering when Terril’s many sons are coming home from Europe. Let me tell you, and I think I speak for the boys in general here, we’re all wondering the same right now. Hoping against hope that it won’t be long.

I am located now along the Rhine River in a town named Alzey. A pretty little city, right near Marinz, Germany. Its beautiful country here in the Saar Basin, but if you want to see all violations of regulations of warfare, Saarbrucken is the place to see it. Last week on my trip to Paris, where I spent 10 days studying at the University there, I passed thru there and about the most typical German dirty trick did I see there, Right in the front door of a huge Catholic church was a deadly pillbox with an 88mm gun commanding all approaches to the town. How about that? Doubtlessly, you have read about the Nazi horror camps with a certain amount of disbelief. Well, I have seen some of Himmler’s masterpieces. Seeing in believing. We have no love for these people whatsoever. We’ve seen what they’ve done to too many of our buddies.

Tell all the follows hello for me and best wishes.

Always

Carlyle

August 9, 1945

Lt. Carlyle Moore came home last Saturday. He left LaHarve France July 18 and visited on the west coast a short time.

September 6, 1945

Lt. Carlyle Moore left for St. Louis Mo., Tuesday evening after a 30 day leave.

Lillian Anderson, Carlyle Moore Wed Aug. 8th

A very quiet wedding was solemnized at the Methodist church, Wednesday, August 8 at two o’clock when Lillian Anderson and Lt. Carlyle Moore were united in marriage. The bride wore a white dress with purple jacket and white hat with trimmings to match and wore a corsage of white gladiolas.

The ceremony was performed by Rev. Harvey Nelson.

The groom wore his dress uniform. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Anderson of Lawton and is a registered nurse. She took her training at Iowa City and has been nursing in Santa Barbara, Cal.

The groom is the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore and Terril has always been his home. He graduated from Terril high and graduated from a four year course in Iowa City. He entered the service in 1942 and has been in the European theatre for over a year.

The young folks are spending a few days at the lakes and will go next week to visit the brides people. Carlyle will report to Jeerson Barracks, Mo., Sept. 5 for orders.

The only witnesses to the marriage were Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Moore and Lt. Leland Moore.


Re: Leland Moore

January 1, 1942

Leland Moore At Kelly Field

Kelly Field, Texas

Leland A. Moore.jpgLeland A. Moore, age 22 of Terril, Iowa is now a member of the first class of aviation cadets to enter the Air Corps Replacement Training Center (Air crew) at Kelly field, Texas, since the entrance of the United States into World War 2. This class entered its training with a new determination December 20.

Cadet Moore is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. A. Moore of Terril, Iowa.

This is the second class to embark on the five-week course in basic military training and ground school instructions at the Replacement Center. Earlier the same week the first class of successful graduates was assigned to primary flying schools to begin flight training.

At the Replacement Center Moore will go through five weeks of preliminary training which will give him a thorough military background for becoming an officer in the Army of the United States on graduation from an advanced flying school, thirty weeks later.

In addition, the course in intended to prepare the cadet, mentally and physically, for the rigors of the actual flight training to come. Moore will participate in many activities designed to improve his physical condition beyond even the high standard required for entrance into the Army Air Corps.

Upon completion of the course at the Replacement Center Cadet Moore will enter one of the primary schools located in the Gulf Coast Air Corps Training Center Area.

He graduated from Terril High School in 1937 and attended the State University of Iowa from 1937 to 1941. Moore is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma (National Honorary Fraternity in Commerce) of the order of Artus (national honorary fraternity in Economics), and was president of the Accountancy Club.

****

March 22, 1942

Chickaska, Oklahoma

Dear Grows,

I promised you a while back that I would write a few lines for the Record; so guess there is no better time than the present. I certainly enjoy reading the paper each week. Thanks a lot for sending it.

Our class is moving toward the end of the week or the first of next week. It sounds as if we will be headed for Randolph Field for basic. Almost all are through with our flying here except a few who still have to take the army and civilian check rides. Those things would drive anyone to chewing fingernails. I’m certainly glad mine are over with.

Just a few words about the flying end of it here at Chickaska. We have quite a number of low winged 175 horsepower Fairchilds to train in. I guess there must be about 70 now and when all of that number is up practicing it is quite a task keeping out of everyone’s way. The traffic coming is and leaving the airdrome is regulated very well though. I guess all we lack is the stop lights. Planes coming in to land need to follow specific patterns as well as planes leaving; so that mixups will be avoided. About the only mishap we’ve had since our class has been in here is one fellow got in a hurry and made a nice three point landing about 30 feet off the ground. He landed pretty hard, cracking both wings but it didn’t hurt him any. I imagine he felt about as foolish and I did one windy day when we were shooting spot landings. I had come in just the time before fairly close to the spot; so I went back around just about the same distance back and everything thinking I’d be sure to get a spot that time. When I was gliding in at about 300 feet, an updraft caught me and carried the plane clear across the airdrome. When I went over the spot the fellows grading us looked like little mice peering up at me so you can see how high I was. Did I feel foolish! A white banner as a spot to land on and I didn’t even hit the airport.

I guess this will be all for now. Taps is neigh and I’ve a little more writhing to do before then. I want to say “Hello” to all the folks around Terril and to the fellows in the service. I’m getting along okey doke. Flying is coming along fine but at times I begin to wonder if the plane isn’t flying me instead of me flying it. Bye now.

One of the boys,

Lee

May 31, 1942

Randorph Field, Texas

Dear Grows,

I received both your nice letters and the “Record” today Mrs. Grow. Thanks heaps for sending Pats snapshots along. Each week after reading the Record, I feel that I’m pretty well posted on the happenings around Terril. It seems so good to hear all about the town. Terril may be small but its still tops.

I’m in the midst of packing my belongings once again. This time to journey over to Ellington Field,

Texas. It seems as though we just got situated here at Randolph and here we are graduating. I hope to see Buddy C. as soon as we get over there and situated. It has seemed like things worked out so we couldn’t get together here in San Antonio.

Out of about 50 left in our Class for Chukasha, Okla., 10 of us got twin engines like we were hoping. Most of the remaining 40 are going to pursuit schools. I would have liked to be going with the gang to pursuit but guess I’m to large to get in one, at any rate they weren’t interested in fellows weighing over 170 lbs. and 5’10” tall. I’m pretty well satisfied going to Ellingotn.

We just finished up our night formation work and landing with just wing lights. A couple of night ago we flew cross country in formation. Guess we went about 299 miles in all. From the time we left the ground until we peeled off from an echelon to land I hadn’t seen a thing but the leaders plane and wing lights. A change of scenery was certainly welcomed but you just don’t dare take your eyes off the leader one moment, while flying in formation. After peeling off, we landed individually and as per usual I came in and made four separate landings in one attempt. Ha! You can’t see the ground until you should have leveled off about 20 feet higher up. From then on it is just a game of leap frog. It seems funny though after flying into the ground a couple of times and jarring yourself a bit you soon learn to respect good old Mother Earth and Level off higher up. I think that is what our instructors thought because they never rode with us at all. I guess they knew what they were doing. Would you send next week’s Record to

Avc. Leland A. Moore 1class 42 G.

Air Corps Advanced Flying School Ellington Field, Texas.

If my address is different after we get there I’ll write you right away.

All they could do was declare Pat “Missing in Action” since they have lost all contact with the P.I. I’m sure he is alive although maybe a prisoner. We’ll get him back again.

Thanks again for the snapshots and all.

Love Lee

****

August 6, 1942

Terril Boys with Flying Colors

Leland Arthur (Lee) Moore

Lee Moore got his Wings yesterday Aug. 5. He is one of the twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore, the other twin being Leslie, a graduate Veterinary in business here. They were born at Terril 22 years ago last November and besides these two boy there are Wayne and wife and Carlyle who is a student at Iowa City.

Lee graduated from Terril high in 1937 and from Iowa City in 1941 being one of the outstanding students at the University. He has always been a great lover of sports both in High School and college, as well as an ardent hunter and fisherman.

He enlisted in the Army Air Corps at Des Moines, Dec. 16, and took his training at Kelly Field, Texas, Chicksha Owla., and Randolph and Ellington Field, Texas.

To the Editors of the Record, too much cannot be said about Lee Moore. He has been at our house a lot with Bernard and next to Bernard is our boy. Any honor that comes to him he deserves, and any misfortune that might come to him would hurt us next to as badly as the misfortune that come to Bernard. In Short Lee is tops.

****

August 13, 1942

Lieut. Leland Moore Home For Short Visit

Lieutenant Leland A. Moore came home Friday noon from Ellington Field Texas, for a visit with his parents and friends. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bane and children of Iowa City brought him up by car. Carlyle Moore of Iowa City came home Saturday, and Miss Eleanor Lockwood of Cedar Rapids came Saturday. All enjoyed a Moore family visit and the visitors left early Sunday morning for Iowa City From there Lee took a plane to Columbia, S. Carolina, where he will be stationed.

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August 13, 1942

Ellington Field, Texas: “Look out Rome, look out Berlin, look out Tokio, Here comes Iowa!”

That’s the war cry of seven battles from the Hawkeye State who are training to become Army Air Force pilots here at the world’s largest multi-motored flying school. They’ll receive their wings soon.

Two are student officers. They are Captain Charles H. Roadman, 26, of Sioux City, and Second Lieutenant Gerald S. Brownell, 25, of Sioux City.

Lone Aviation Student of the future Axis-crushers is Private First Class Leo V. Herrold, 23 of Diagonal.

The remaining three of the group are Aviation Cadets. Leading the fast steppers is James L. Flack, 20 of Ames.

From Sioux City came Roman N. Lamberto, 25.

From Terril, comes Leland A. Moore, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. William A. Moore. He received his bachelor of science degree from State University of Iowa. He is a graduate of Lloyd Consolidated High School, class of 37. For four years he flashed on the gridiron, basketball court and the diamond.

Ellington Field, rebuilt two years ago, is now one of the most modern air bases. Old “Jenney” wheezed and wobbled off unpaved runways during World War 1 day and were serviced in rickety hangers. Now swift, multi-motored training ships zoom off the world’s largest network of concrete ramps and runways and are maintained in huge, up-to date steel and concrete hangers.

****

January 28, 1943

Lt. Leland Moore Now in Louisiana

De Ridder, La.

Dear Grows,

Finally I’m getting a letter off to you. I certainly owe you a letter of appreciation for sending the Record each week. I received two at one time yesterday when we landed coming in from Georgia, so I spent a whole hour just relaxing and getting well posted on the Terril happenings once again.

Traffic up there really must be bottled up with both gas rationing and snow storms complicating things. It has been warm here but the weather for flying has been generally pretty poor. We paced back and forth before an operations desk in Georgia for four day waiting to take off for De Ridder. Judging by the big smiles on the clerks’ faces when we were finally cleared on instruments, I believe they were darn tickled to get us out. I believe all of us had everyone nervous from looking up at the sky to see if the ceiling had lifter any. You know, just like the fellow on the street corner looking up in the air with everyone passing by surely stopping to have a look to see what they might be missing. As anxious as we were to get going what would happen but the escape hatch on our plane flew off on the take off. The whole top of the cockpit was left open making it quite the open air job. We had to land to pick that up.

Would you change my address to De Ridder, La. It will be forwarded to me from here much faster than from Columbia.

I’m going to get broke into guard duty tonight for the first time. My crew and I flipped to see who held the gun in front of our plane during the different shifts. I drew the midnight shift so I better catch a little sleep before then.

Before closing, I want to thank you again for the Record. Please remember to write me sometime.

Hoping you are all in the best of health.

As Always,

One of the boys

Lee

****

July 8, 1943

(received) July 29, 1943

V-Mail Letter from L. Moore in Africa

North Africa

Dear Grows,

Just a line at least to thank you for sending the “Record” over to me and to say “hello.” I’m very late, as usual, in writing buy now for about a week we have nothing to do except just those things we want to, so I should get caught up.

Some of us are back quite always enjoying a full week at a rest camp set up for U.S. airmen. It’s located high in the mountains where every things is so cool, peaceful and quiet. Recreation is plentiful with tennis courts, swimming pool and all. It’s really about the most beautiful resort I’ve ever seen. There are lost of trout in the mountain streams but right now their appetites must not be too strong for few Frenchmen ever have a large string.

I was certainly thinking of the folks at home and good old Arnolds Park the fourth of July. On that

particular day we celebrated ours by dropping a few eggs on Mussolini’s diminishing air force.

I must sign off for now – this V-mail form has given out.

Hello to all the folks at Terril!

Lee

****

October 20, 1943

Register newspaper

Another Iowan who may be home soon after completing 50 missions on bomber combat duty is 1st Lieut. Leland A. Moore, Terril, who has been in the Mediterranean area.

He was pilot on a Mitchell B 25, “The Hawkeye,” which in one mission over Sardinia was reported badly shot up in the right rudder, wing and engine, his relatives learned.

Lieutenant Moore’s twin brother, 1st Lieut. Leslie J. Moore, is an inspector of food and ships at an eastern port, and another brother, Carlyle, is in officer training at Fort Benning, Ga. Carlyle is graduated from the State University of Iowa last June.

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October 20, 1943

Terril Youth Completes 50 Missions In Africa

November 11, 1943

When First Lieutenant Leland A. Moore, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore of Terril, climbed down from the cockpit of his plane a few days ago he had completed his fiftieth mission as a pilot in a medium B-25 (Mitchell) bomber group operating in the North African theater.

Lieutenant Moore was graduated from Terril high school and the State University of Iowa, where he played basketball, football, baseball and was a member of the rifle team. He became a first lieutenant in December 1942.

Shortly after arriving in North Africa, in March, 1943, Lieutenant Moore flew his first mission over enemy territory in Tunisia. Raids over Tunisia, Pantelleria, Lampedusa, Sardinia and Sicily won him the Air Medal and Eight Oak Leaf Clusters.

In one raid over Mateur in the days when the campaign in North Africa was at its height, the target was an important road junction over which the enemy would try to retreat.

Lieutenant Moore said just as his crew was making its bomb run, flak hit our left engine. I do not recall ever seeing so much heavy, intense and accurate flak. “Although they crippled our ship we made the bomb run and my bombardier dropped the ‘eggs’ on the target. I feathered my prop and stated for home. Our next worry was the enemy fighters. The pilots of two other planes sensed my predicament and came in to assist me. After much dodging, and with our fire-power, we drove the enemy aircraft off and limped home to safety.”

In on the historic bombing of Rome July 19, Lieutenant Moore got a fine view of the Vatican City and other historical monuments. “My ambition is to come back and visit Rome after the war is over,” He declared.

****

Service Salutes

Lieut. Leland Moore went to Iowa City on Friday for a checkup and entered the state hospital for special diet, care and treatment for a while.  He developed yellow jaundice after he got back to the states and was feeling pretty punk when we talked to him Thursday.

****

August 10, 1944

Lt. Leland Moore Reported At Pampa, Texas

Pampa Army Air Field Pampa, Texas, August 4, (Special) – Lt. Leland A. Moore, 24 year-old flying instructor son of Mr. and Mrs. William A. Moore of Terril, Iowa, recently reported at this twin-engine advanced flying school of the AAF Center Flying Training Command, Col. Charles B. Harvin, commanding officer, revealed today.

A graduate of Lloyd Consolidated high school of Terril, Iowa, Lt. Moore earned his bachelor of science degree at the University of Iowa, where he was a student when appointed an aviation cadet. He entered the army air forces on Dec. 16, 1941, and received primary flight training in Chickasha, Okla. and basic flight training at Randolph Field, Texas he received his wings and second lieutenant’s commission on Aug. 5, 1942 after completing advanced training.

Flying Farmers

1943

No other class of soldier speaks of his work and way of life as do the farmers in the service overseas. That I know, for in my job as a ground officer in a bombardment group based in North Africa, I have frequently heard our boys express their hopes, desires, loves and sometimes fears for the postwar United States they’re going to re-enter.

You hear them talking among themselves, or they bring up the subject in the mess of their barracks, these former farmers.

“The corn is going to be late this year due to floods” one says he has been informed in a letter from the home folks.

“The drought is hurting pastures,” another one says.

“After the war? I’m gonna get married and settle down on my own farm. I got the place picked out – and I’m saving money for the down payment.”

The group in which I am stationed is now a veteran one. It cut its bombs on Rommel’s retreating forces, destroying his supplies and cutting the supply lines across the Sicilian Straights and smashing at enemy communication lines in Central and Northern Tunisia. Then came Pantelleria, which the boys considered “the milk run.” And then came the softening and taking of Sicily, which was anything but a soft job.

Who are some of these boys who would rather be in their fields or riding herd on the plains of Texas or tending their hogs in the Corn Belt? The photograph shows a group of our boys, somewhere in North Africa.

Capt. M.D. Haven

Public Relations Officer With the Armed Forces abroad.

Members of a bomber crew in Africa – veterans of the successful Mediterranean campaigns – have a look at a familiar object, a combine made back home. Left to Right: 1st Lt. Chester H. Bland, navigator, Paris, Ill; Sgt. Albert S. Brisco, line chief, Burkett, Tex.; T.Sgt. Charles A. Featherstone, radio gunner, Kingman, Ind.; 2nd Lt. Stanley Elkins, bombardier, Red Springs, Tex.; (on machine) 2nd Lt. J. Richard Brandt, pilot, Rushville, Ohio; 1st Lt. Leland A. Moore, pilot, Terril, Ia.

****

April 6, 1944

(received) April 13, 1944

Letter From Lee Moore

Brooks Field, Texas

Dear Grows,

No students to fly this afternoon, so I’m going to take time out and send, via letter my thanks for your faithfulness in sending the Record each week. It means just as much to me now here in Texas as it did while I was in Africa. There is no place like home, be it within the U.S. or abroad.

I’ve spent about 2 months at Brooks already. So far, no gray hairs, but teaching cadets to fly a B-25, is by no means a dull job. Just as an example of what I mean, I’ll site only one incident. A few days ago I thought I’d give one of my students some single engine work by shutting the gas off on one engine. He, at that time wasn’t very sharp on the procedures to follow in shutting off a bad engine. Well, anyway during the confusion which followed, he shut off the ignition and feathered the propeller of the engine we were flying on. That was just fine! You can rest assured that after finally getting things under control I spanked his hands severely. You can well imagine what landings are like.

Really though, I enjoy my work here. I know I’ll get a great deal of satisfaction in seeing “my boys” solo after the hopelessness of the first few weeks of instruction.

I’d like to hear from you sometime. I hope you are will, and keep faith in Pat – remember we’re getting closer and closer.

Love

Lee

****

1944

Awarded Eighth Oak Leaf Cluster

Lieut. Leland A. Moore, of Terril was one of four Iowans who are members of the 12th Bomber Command who have been awarded Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters to the air medal for participation in, combat bomber sorties against the Germans over enemy- occupied Europe. Lieut. Moore was awarded an eighth cluster.

Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Moore received a letter from Lee Monday telling them that he has been retired from flying combat, having completed his 50th combat mission with 200 flying hours. The letter was written September 20. He said in his letter that he was as sound as when he went overseas. There has been no word received as to what he will do; stay overseas or come home.

****

Lee Moore Home From North Africa

Lieut. Leland A. Moore arrived home Tuesday morning. He got back to the States October 24. He has been in North Africa for 8 months and had finished his combat hours. He came by boat to the States and by train to Iowa.

He does not know how long his leave is or what his next job will be, but we are all glad know Lee’s home.

December 28, 1944

Lt. Leland Moore and 2nd Lt. Reed Johnson of Pampa, Texas came by plane to Sioux City Saturday, where Wayne Moore met them and brought them home for Christmas visit. Wm. Moore and Wayne and Ed Crumlett took them back Tuesday morning.

****

July 19, 1945

Lt. Leland Moore came home from Pampa, Texas Saturday. He tells us that he will be discharged in August and will not have to go back to camp. He has been in service over three years and completed his 40 flight missions in 1943. Since then he has been stationed in Texas as an instructor.

****

September 6

Lt. Leland Moore Marries Cedar Rapids Girl

In a candlelight ceremony before an alter banked with palms, candelabra and yellow and white gladiolus, Miss. Eleanor Ruth Lockwood, daughter of Mrs. R.W. Lockwood, 410 First avenue W., Cedar Rapid, became the bride of Lt. Leland A. Moore of Terril. The double ring ceremony was performed Aug. 26 by the Rev. J.E. DeLong in Trinity Methodist church.

Mrs. Lulu Welty furnished traditional wedding music and Mrs. Dorene DeLong was soloist. The bride, given in marriage by her uncle, Earl Lockwood, was attired in a white brocaded satin gown, fashioned with a sweetheart neckline and a peplum. Her fingertip veil fell from a tiara of gardenias and stephanotis and she wore a single strand of pearls, a gift of the bridegroom. On a white Bible she carried orchids.

The bride’s attendant was Miss. Myrna Parke of Chicago, who wore a pale yellow marquisette lace gown and carried a colonial bouquet of gardenias and orchids. Serving the bridegroom as best man was Lt. Carlyle Moore of Terril. Ushers were Joseph Callen and Kenneth Krabbenhoft of Iowa City.

The bride’s mother wore a brown mesh dress with brown accessories and the bridegroom’s mother chose a printed silk dress with white accessories. They both wore corsages of gardenias and roses.

Following the ceremony a reception was held for 50 guests at the church parsonage. The table was decorated with yellow and white gladiolus, white candles and a three-tiered wedding cake topped by a miniature bride and bridegroom.

For their wedding trip to the northern lakes the bride wore a black suit with white accessories and an orchid corsage.

Mrs. Moore was graduated in June from the University of Iowa, where she was enrolled in the five-year school of nursing course. Lt. Moore was graduated from the University of Iowa in 1941. He entered the army air force the same year and flew a B-25 bomber for fifty missions. He was with the Twelfth air force in North Africa and has been an instructor at Brooks field and also at Pampa, Texas.

 

 

 


Re: Leonard Moore

September 17, 1942 

Leonard Moore Reported Missing in Action

Leonard E. Moore.jpg

Tragedy hit again in this community with the reported missing in action of Leonard E. Moore, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Moore of near Terril.

Leonard Moore, who joined the navy Dec. 15, 1941, was a second class seaman radio man. His parents received the telegram notifying of his loss Sunday afternoon buy no details were given. A letter from Leonard received just before the 4th of July stated that where he was going would be no picnic but other than that they have had no word.

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September 30, 1942

Leonard Eugene Moore, 23, Seaman 2-c, has been officially reported dead, according to word received by Mr. and Mrs. William E. Moore of Estherville. He was reported as missing in action August 9, 1942.

He was a member of the cruiser crew on the U.S.S. Vincennes. He enlisted in the Navy December 15, 1941 and deported to Great Lakes, Illinois for his boot training. He was sent to New York from Great Lakes to receive further training, and from New York to the west coast. He had never been home on leave since he enlisted.

Mr. Moore received his education in the Estherville grade schools and graduated from the Superior high school. He worked with his father on the farm until his enlistment in the Navy. He was born May 11, 1920 at Terril.

He is survived by his parents, one sister, Mrs. S.M. Sevatson of Estherville and one brother, Willard at home. –Estherville Vindicator-Republican.

****

October 12, 1944

Memorial services will be held at the Presbyterian church at Estherville next Sunday, October 15 for Leonard Eugene Moore, who for a number of years lived northeast of Terril. He was 23 years old and was seaman second class in the Navy. He was declared dead in September 1943. He was previously reported “missing in action” August 9, 1942. He was a member of the cruiser crew on the U.S.S. Vincennes. He enlisted in the Navy December 15, 1941. He had never been home on leave since his enlistment. He was educated in the Estherville schools and at Superior school. He was born May 11, 1920 at Terril and besides his parents leaves one brother Willard and one sister, Mrs. S.M. Sevatson of Estherville.

****

October 1944

Memorial Services for Leonard Moore at Estherville

Memorial services were held at the Presbyterian church at Estherville Sunday, October 15 for Leonard Eugene Moore, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Moore, who for a number of years lived northeast of Terril. He was 23 years old and was seaman second class in the navy. He was declared dead in September 1943. He was previously reported missing in action August 9, 1942. He was a member of the cruiser crew on the U.S.S. Vincennes. He enlisted in the navy December 15, 1941. He had never been home on leave since his enlistment. He was educated in the Estherville and at Superiors schools and graduated from the Superior school. He was born May 11, 1920 at Terril and besides his parents leaves one brother Willard and one sister, Mrs. S.M. Sevatson of Estherville.


Re: Leslie J. Moore

August 27, 1942

****

Leslie J. Moore left Friday for Des Moines for his physical examination and went thru on all six cylinders. He was at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, the first of the week. Les is a twin to Lee and sort of belongs to all of us too. Its soon going to be so we can’t write the going away items of the boys. Our eye sight gets poor at that time.

Leslie J. Moore.jpg

December 4, 1942

Lt. Leslie J. Moore Writes From New York

Brooklyn, New York

Dear Grows,

Please excuse me for not writing sooner. I had good intentions but just never got it done.

How is everything in Terril? I suppose it is progressing as usual.

I was moved from Ft. Bragg, North Carolina to the New York Port. I have been commissioned a first Lt. in Veterinary Corps and am doing food inspection. My work takes me all over the city as well as aboard ships. It is very interesting and in addition I am taking in the sights here in New York.

Thanks a lot for the paper. It surely is appreciated. I’m sure all the Terril fellows will agree with me on that.

Hope you are all fine. So long.

Leslie Moore

****

May 27, 1943

Terril Boys in the United States Army and Navy

1st Lt. Leslie J. Moore

Leslie Moore graduated from Terril high school in 1937 and from Ames (Veterinary) in June 1942. He was 23 years old last November 17. He practiced here a few weeks before leaving for the Army September 4, 1942.

He went to Des Moines for induction after which he was sent to Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. From there he was sent to Fr. Bragg, N. Carolina and after several months was sent to Brooklyn, New York where he is still stationed.

Less is one of the four sons of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Moore, the others being Wayne, Lee in Africa and Carlyle at Iowa City.

He is one of the “Moore twins” Lee being the other and was recognized in the sports activities while a student here. He has always been well liked and to the Record folks was another of “our boys.”

June 8, 1943

Twins in Army

Lieut. Leslie J. Moore (top picture) and Lieut. Leland A. Moore, twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. Will Moore of Terril, are both in the armed service. Lieut. Leslie J. Moore is in the veterinarian division and at present is doing inspection work. He is stationed at Brooklyn, N.Y. Lieut. Leland A. Moore has been in Africa since March. He is a bomber pilot and was graduated last August from Ellington Field, Texas.

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March 30, 1944

Miss Mabel Pedersen became the bride of Lieut. Leslie J. Moore in a single ring ceremony Sunday, March 19, at 5:30 p.m. in the Little Church Around the corner located at 29th St. New York City. The church has a large attendance of theatrical people and is popular for its weddings.

The wedding vows were read by the Rev. Rondolph Roy, D.D.

The couple was unattended. The bride wore a street length dress of aqua silk crepe with pink and brown accessories and a beautiful corsage of pink and white carnations. The groom wore his army officers dress uniform.

Mrs. W.A. Moore mother of the groom was present at the wedding. She wore a blue and white dress and a corsage of red roses.

Both bride and groom graduated from the Terril high school with the class of 1937. Lt. Moore attended the U. of Iowa one year and Iowa State college 4 year, graduating from the college of Veterinary medicine in 1942. He practiced his profession after graduation until he was inducted into the Army in August 1942. He is now stationed at the Brooklyn Army Base as a food and sanitary inspector.

The couple will make their home at 6735 Ridge Blvd, Brooklyn, N.Y.

December 7, 1944

Lt. and Mrs. Leslie J. Moore left Monday evening to return to their home in Brooklyn, New York after visiting relatives here for a week.

January 4, 1945

Leslie Moore has been promoted from lieutenant to captain. Captain Moore is stationed in New York.

March 14, 1946

Capt. and Mrs. Leslie Moore came last Wednesday from Brooklyn, N.Y. Leslie is on terminal leave and will soon be discharged. They are staying at the Wm. Moore home for the present.


Re: John M. Morton

December 21, 1944

Morton

Somewhere in the Pacific – Delayed (Undated) – Wounded in action, against the Japanese in last summer’s Marianas Islands campaign Private first class John M. Morton, Algona, formerly of Milford, and a brother of Mrs. Milo Brown, recently received a Purple Heart in ceremonies here for 25 Leathernecks eligible.

Morton’s award was presented by Brig. Gen. LeRoy P. Hunt, assistant commander of the Second Marine Division, famed for its exploits at Tarawa, Saipan and Tinian. – Beacon. (This is Marian Grady’s husband)


Re: Darwin W. Myrick

October 7, 1943

Terril Boys in the Army and the Navy

Darwin M. Myrick.jpg

Darwin W. Myrick was born at Spencer in 1921. He attended the Terril school ten years, graduating from Superior school in 1939. He enlisted in the Navy September 20, 1942 and was sent to the Great Lakes for his basic training, where he was a member of the 200 voice choir, which is on the air every week, church services, entertains soldiers and made records. He was sent to New York in November where he attended radio school, graduating in March. He was on duty some while there and was on a boat that was sunk. Since then he has been stationed at Auonset Point Rhode Island and received his rating of third class Petty Officer July 18. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A.E. Myrick of near Superior. He has one brother, Ralph, of Harris and six sisters, Mrs. Ralph Tritle of Spirit Lake, Mrs. Edward Lloyd and Mrs. Wayne Wilson of Milford, Mrs. Vernon Hassman of New Hartford and Helen and Nadine at home.

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Darwin Myrick in Navy Choir

Apprentice Seaman Darwin W. Myrick, son of Arthur E. Myrick is a member of the 200 voice choir at the Great Lakes Training school.

Myrick will remain a member of the musical organization while he is undergoing training.

The choir activities include church services, station entertainment and radio broadcasts.  It performs every Friday at 9 p.m. on the “Meet Your Navy” program, which is aired directly from the naval training station.


Re: Glen Harvey Nelson

December 3, 1942

Glen Harvey Nelson Enlists in Navy

Great Lakes, Ill. – The most recent arrival at the U.S. Naval Training Station here from Terril, is Glen Harvey Nelson, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Christiene Nelson.

He reported to begin recruit training last week.

Now classified as a book, this new recruit is being trained and instructed in various fundamental phases of naval routine, hardened through the Navy’s vigorous physical toughening program, and will soon graduate from recruit training a full-fledged Bluejacket. At that time, he will be granted a nine-day leave at which time he may come home.

Recruits in the navy have a selection of 49 different trades to learn in the various Navy Training Schools if they qualify when taking their aptitude test during recruit training. Graduation from a navy service school makes a man eligible for a petty officers rating.


Re: Louis C. Nuehring

July 29, 1944

Terril Boys in the Army and the Navy

Lt. Louis C. Nuehring received his pilots wings May 23, 1944.

He was born November 23, 1920 and attended school at Arnolds Park and Spirit Lake. After quitting school he worked several years with his uncle at Lytton and later building boats on West Okoboji.

He enlisted in September, 1942 and entered service in March 1943.

His mother is Mrs. Frieda Nuehring who keeps the home at the Henry Peterson farm. Lt. Nuehring was here on a leave just a short time ago and also visited relatives at Lytton and Carroll.


Re: Cadet Myrl A. Olson

April 27, 1944

Lubbock Army Air Field, Lubbock, Texas – Arriving here with Class 44-F, Aviation Cadet Myrl A. Olson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Olson, Terril, began the final period of pilot training at this advanced two- engine school of the Army Air Forces Command. After a few more weeks of intensive training on the ground and in the air he will receive the coveted wings of a bomber pilot and become a flying officer in the Army Air Forces.

LAAF is located on the flat plains of West Texas. It was early chosen as an ideal location for the training of future pilots of the Fortresses, Mitchells, Marauders and other multi-motored AAF aircraft. Hundreds of combat bomber pilots who graduated from this field have distinguished themselves in all theaters of war. More than a dozen LAAF graduated were decorated for the “suicide” raid on Wake Island December 23, 1942, and almost a score of LAAF pilots took part in the equally daring raid on the Ploesti oil fields of Rumania. The field, second oldest two-engine school in the Central Flying Training Command, is under the command of Col. Ralph E. Holmes, a command pilot with 17 years’ experience in the Air Forces.

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June 27, 1944

Lt. Myrl Olson is now stationed at the air base at Liberal, Kansas and is taking further schooling.

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July 6, 1944

Lt. and Mrs. Myrl Olson arrived Friday from Camp Lubbock, Texas and will be around here until Saturday. Lt. Olson graduated June 27 and will visit here and at Wallingford with his folks and his wife’s folks. A group of relatives brought a picnic dinner and spent the day visiting them at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leon Olson.

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July 13, 1944

Terril Boys in the Army and the Navy

Myrl A. Olson

Lubbock Army Air Field, Lubbock, Texas – The members of Class 44-F, more eager than ever to join their fellow airmen in combat over the skies of the world now that D-Day has become a reality, received their silver pilots’ wings June 27 in impressive ceremonies held at Lubbock Army Air Field, one of the eleven advanced flying schools in the Army Air Forces Central Flying Training Command with headquarters at Randolph Field Texas.

The LAAF men, representing 40 states in the Union, have been intensively trained for months at primary and basic schools as well as advanced and will, after brief transitional training, be ready to pilot the Army’s giant Fortresses, Marauders, Mitchells and other multi-motored planes now blasting Hitler’s crumbling fortress and Hirohito’s bloodstained empire.

Included among the LAAF graduates was Myrl A. Olson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Olson of Terril.

Lt. Olson was married some time ago to Betty Olson of Wallingford.

He has three sisters, Mrs. Elwood Hyatt, Mrs. Bob Larson and Betty Ann. and one brother Richard.

Lt. and Mrs. Olson left Sunday for Kansas, after spending a short leave with relatives here.

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July 26, 1945

Lt. and Mrs. Myrl Olson are the parents of a son, Gary Lee, born at an Estherville hospital, July 19. Mr. and Mrs. Elwood Hyatt are parents to a daughter, Mariam Jeanne, born July 21. This makes two new grandchildren for Mr. and Mrs. Leon Olson within two days. Another daughter has a baby boy about 2 months old.

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December 13, 1945

First Lieut. Myrl A. Olson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Olson, has received his discharge from the Army Air Forces. Lt. Olson, a veteran of many months of active duty in the European theater as a B-24 pilot, was released in accordance with the Army’s point system. Lt. Olson has received the following awards: D.F.C.; ETO ribbon with 3 bronze stars; ADR ribbon; presidential citation with 3 clusters, prior to entering the service, Myrl was engaged in aircraft work with the Glenn L. Martin Co. at Omaha. Myrl received his discharge at the Sioux City separation center Nov. 30.


Re: Ivan G. Oppedal

July 27.

Great Lakes, Ill., July 20 – Ivan G. Oppedal, 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. I. Oppedal of Terril has just enrolled in th Navy V-12 Unit at Iowa State College, Ames.

Entrance into the special training unit enables the student seaman to take a series of approved university courses. The regular academic curriculum is supplements with military drill, physical education and Naval Organization. The young Bluejacket will also have the opportunity to participate in competitive sports and campus activities.

Satisfactorily completing the V-12 program the seaman will be sent to one of the many Midshipman Schools established for the training of Naval Reserve Officers. After successful completion of the midshipman course, Seaman Oppedal then may be commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve.

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