The U.S. Sixth Army commander, General Walter Krueger, was notorious for cracking down on subordinates whose attacks fizzled during the fight to reclaim the Philippines. It was expected, then, that he would land solidly on the back of the 32nd Division's Major General William H. Gill. The division was bogged down on northern Luzon on a mountain track called the Villa Verde Trail, taking more casualties than ground.
General Gill sought to deflect his superior's wrath during the spring of 1945 by expressing his own doubts about the division's ability to secure the trail. Gill complained that the division was battle-weary and understrength because there were no replacements. The trail was heavily fortified by elite troops of the Japanese Fourteenth Area Army. There was no room for maneuver in the rugged Caraballo Mountains through which the trail wound. It was all bloody head-on assaults.
Surprisingly, Krueger agreed and told the division commander, "I'm fully satisfied that your division has done and is doing all that is humanly possible under the incredibly difficult terrain conditions and resistance facing it." Krueger then instructed Gill to continue the attack with what he had. Gill could expect no replacements—Krueger had none to give. The bitter campaigns raging in the mountains were low priority to General Douglas MacArthur, commander of all Allied forces in the Philippines. MacArthur had originally allotted only five divisions to Krueger's northern forces—five divisions to tackle the bulk of the Japanese army on Luzon. Yet after the fall of Manila in March 1945, MacArthur depleted even that force, pulling two divisions out of the north to aid the Eighth Army's operations in the rest of the Philippines. As Captain Robert Maynard of the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Division, related, "MacArthur took Manila…then he didn't care about the dying in the mountains."
The 32nd Division's history is filled with stand-up fights in which the unit had little or no support. MacArthur's first offensive move in the southwestern Pacific had been to throw the 32nd into New Guinea—without jungle training or artillery and with barely sufficient supplies. Two years later, also in New Guinea, the division had been stranded along the Driniumor River for a short time. The unit had landed on Luzon almost three months earlier than Krueger's mid-April visit with Gill, and at that time its ranks were already depleted from months of jungle fighting on Leyte. The men had received only three weeks' rest between the two islands. The men of the 32nd—who wore the Red Arrow patch signifying that the division had pierced every line it had encountered—knew about fighting without support. They expected to crack this line as well. But they were unaware of the high price they would pay in materiel, morale and men.
The 32nd was part of the I Corps, the Sixth Army's left flank. Since landing at Lingayen Gulf in January 1945, the I Corps' task had been to provide a screen for the XIV Corps, on the right flank, as it raced toward Manila. The I Corps was guarding against a possible avalanche of 150,000 Japanese poised to slide down from the Caraballo Mountains onto the central plains.
MacArthur's raid on the I Corps left Krueger holding a defensive line with only three divisions. The 33rd was in the west, guarding Lingayen Gulf and battering the mountain approaches to Baguio, Japan's headquarters on the island. In the I Corps' center, the 32nd plugged the mouths of several river valleys and the southern terminus of the Villa Verde Trail. The right flank was anchored by the 25th Division, located near Highway 5.
In late February, Krueger changed the I Corps' mission. With the Manila Bay area under control, it was no longer necessary to muzzle the I Corps' offensive capabilities. Krueger believed that delaying the campaign in the north would allow the Japanese troops time to strengthen their mountain redoubts. Accordingly, Krueger ordered Maj. Gen. Innis P. Swift, the I Corps commander, to assault the Japanese in their defensive lairs.
Krueger and Swift knew that the Japanese positions on northern Luzon were located on a triangular perimeter encompassing the most treacherous reaches of the Caraballo Mountains, which protected the Cagayen Valley, a breadbasket for the Japanese. Krueger instructed Swift that his corps' first objective was to pry open the door to the valley, thereby cutting off the Japanese supplies at the source. Swift chose the 32nd to make the breakthrough.
Swift's plans for the 32nd involved herculean tasks. The Red Arrow men were to attack from the plains into the mountains by way of three river valleys and the Villa Verde Trail. The movement into the valleys, on the western edge of the division's zone of action, was an operation in support of the 33rd's thrust to take Baguio. The valleys were north–south waterways thought to be viable avenues for flanking General Tomoyuki Yamashita, Fourteenth Area Army commander, in Baguio. While the 33rd pushed at the town from the south and west, it was believed that elements of the 32nd could stab at the enemy from the east.
The 126th Infantry Regiment was picked to make the push up the valleys. A battalion jumped off on February 25, probing up the Ambayabang River. The inhospitable valley made it necessary for the battalion to move in small units, never more than a company maneuvering together. Along the steep banks of the Ambayabang the men of the 32nd encountered a series of caves used by the Japanese as defensive positions, where each enemy position was protected by a similar cave farther down the valley. Reducing one target exposed men of the 126th to a withering fire from the second position. Grim necessity forced the battalion to rely on its intelligence and reconnaissance men to penetrate the Japanese lines and locate the caves.
One such patrol found Sergeant Joe Skiba and his men heading back toward their regiment after a stint behind Japanese lines. To reach the safety of the American positions, the patrol had to cross an open stretch of land. Skiba had his men advance single file and spread out. Despite that precaution, the Japanese opened up on them, knocking out their lead scout with a gaping head wound. The squad was pinned down in the coarse cogon grass. Skiba remembered: "I can recall one of the men not having a good hiding spot. Attempting to find a more secure position, he ran through that open area. As he ran, the [Japanese] machine gun opened up on him. They sprayed at him but did not hit him. As he ran to the safer position…he yelled, 'Somebody get that SOB.'" After dark, the survivors escaped. The man who had sprinted across the clearing counted four bullet holes in his uniform, but he was unscathed.
The 126th was tied down in the river valleys west of the Villa Verde Trail until the first week in April. Probing for a way into Baguio, the regiment suffered casualties but did not materially contribute to the capture of the Japanese stronghold. Relieved by elements of the 33rd Division, it was sent eastward to join the rest of the 32nd, which needed more manpower.
The drive up the trail was the 32nd's main goal. General Gill's men were to crack the mountain bastion by forcing the trail. Capturing the Villa Verde Trail would open the way to Santa Fe, a crossroads town on the Japanese supply line. Guarding the trail were contingents of the Japanese 10th Division and the 2nd Tank Division. The men were led by Maj. Gen. Haruo Konuma, commander of the Bambang Branch, Fourteenth Area Army, who layered his defenses by burrowing into the mountainsides and embedding artillery along what came to be known as Yamashita Ridge. The ridge was a prominence north of the trail commanding long stretches of the American lines. From these positions the defenders could rain down harassing fire, blast apart attacks and rend supply lines. Close to the trail, Japanese spider holes harbored soldiers skilled at sniping and infiltration. These positions were Yamashita's brainchild. The commander of Japanese forces on Luzon knew he could not defeat the Americans, but could only bleed units needed for the invasion of Japan.
On February 24 the men of the 127th Infantry Regiment tackled the trail. The nearly perpendicular slopes, bald razorback ridges and jungle valleys in the region surrounding the trail forced the regiment to use a battalion to attack up the trail while another struck the Japanese right flank. Simultaneously, the 127th's remaining battalion managed to get behind the Japanese lines and set up a roadblock along the trail. These coordinated attacks broke the Japanese defenses.
Capitalizing on the crumbling Japanese resistance, the 127th Infantry closely pursued the retreating enemy. One battalion reached the western approaches of the two Salacsac passes on March 4, hot on the heels of the decimated Japanese force. The regiment was now in the doorway to the Cagayen Valley. Four miles across the twisting, narrow passes lay Imugan, a village marking the point where the Villa Verde Trail began its descent toward Santa Fe.
The rapid American advance stopped at the Salacsac passes. The regiment had encountered inhospitable terrain while moving up the Villa Verde. The trail hugged the sides of mountains 4,000 feet above sea level—mountains often shrouded in fog, drenched in downpours or wrapped in stifling heat. Now the trail was the front. The deep draws carving the landscape near the Villa Verde Trail were too precipitous for maneuvers. The surrounding mountains were a trackless wilderness with hidden Japanese caves. The trail itself aided the enemy, its serpentine ribbon promising another gun emplacement around each turn. The 32nd Division was faced with frontal assaults against a well-entrenched enemy commanding the high ground and familiar with the battlefield.
Supplies became a sore point; the trail was too narrow to support motorized traffic, and Filipino carriers sometimes proved untrustworthy under fire. The 32nd Division relied on the equipment and bravery of the 114th Engineer Battalion to make the Villa Verde a passable road. What the 114th accomplished under constant fire became known as "the little Burma Road." Later, captured Japanese orders showed that the 114th was on their army's "must destroy" list.
The trail often held surprises for the Americans. One morning a patrol led by 2nd Lt. Carl Patrinos of the 1st Platoon, G Company, 127th Infantry Regiment, stopped on the trail for a breather just as the fog draping the area burned off. The fog lifted so suddenly that the GIs were stunned to see Japanese soldiers sitting a short distance away. Americans and Japanese froze. Then both patrols scrambled in opposite directions, not bothering to shoot at one another.
Most encounters with the enemy were not so benign. Private first class Martin Narendorf of L Company spent four days on a knob that offered a fine view of the Japanese. Until the fourth day the Japanese had apparently been unaware of L Company's position. But once General Konuma's men discovered the Americans there on March 15, they zeroed in on the company with mortar shells. Narendorf recalled that their fire was pretty accurate, saying, "All you saw laying around you were pieces of meat." The L Company commander ordered his men to withdraw. Narendorf and others supplied covering fire. As Narendorf began his escape, he noticed a wounded man a short distance away. He grabbed a shelter half (half of a pup tent) to use as a makeshift litter and headed for the casualty. Reaching the man, Narendorf saw that it was a company cook, Joe Sepp. Narendorf remembered: "His whole chest was blown out. You could see his heart pumping." Sepp said to him, "Why don't you just go ahead, I'm dying anyway." More shells landed, and Narendorf dove for a foxhole. Before he found shelter, either shrapnel or splintered wood from a tree burst ripped into his back. Narendorf managed to struggle down the hill, but without Sepp, who was already dead.
The men fought for every yard, foot and sometimes inch. The Japanese were dug in so well that artillery had no effect on their spider holes. Camouflaged bunkers could only be detected with human bait—the shriek of a .25-caliber bullet overhead or the whir of the mortar cutting the air provided the only clues to the enemy's whereabouts. A squad of GIs would then have to advance on the position, ramming a pole charge into the opening when they neared the cave. The explosion would seal the spider hole, though there was no assurance that the troops inside were dead or that there were not multiple openings to the cave.
Breaking the stalemate became the 32nd Division's major concern. General Gill detached the 2nd Battalion from the 128th to add to the strength of those already engaged. Gill hoped to defy the jagged terrain by sending the battalion south of the trail, through the wilderness, to strike the Japanese rear. He planned to take Imugan, cutting the enemy supply line and ending the stalemate. The battalion jumped off on March 11.
The operation was a nightmare. Lack of supplies, faulty communications and intraregimental jealousy contributed to the breakdown of the maneuver. The battalion commander had requested 300 carriers on his supply route; he received 150. That number was insufficient to shuttle the food and ammunition the expedition needed. The atmospheric conditions in the mountains interfered with radio communications. Orders were delayed or lost. Moreover, the battalion commander was new to both his command and the division. At least some of his junior officers considered him a braggart, while he himself believed his regimental commander was plotting against him.
These factors, added to a crafty enemy and formidable terrain, doomed the operation. As the Americans struggled against the trail's defenses, the borrowed battalion's attack wilted. Realizing the futility of the assault, General Gill issued orders withdrawing the unit on March 22. The battalion commander was relieved of duty as they left the wilderness.
The Villa Verde Trail had taken its toll on the 127th. More than 100 men had been killed and 225 wounded since the regiment had started up the trail. Five hundred more had been hospitalized for illness, including a disproportionate number of combat fatigue cases. The regiment counted only 1,500 men as combat effectives by March 23. On that day Gill began relieving the 127th by inserting the 128th Infantry Regiment into the line.
Staff Sergeant Fred Johnson of the 128th's medical detachment had spent two nights on the trail when the Japanese hit his position with artillery. Instead of seeking safety, Johnson risked his life to carry a wounded man from the aid station to a trench, where he would be safe. Johnson then bolted out into the rain of explosions and falling debris to retrieve more wounded. After bringing another GI to a secure area, Johnson set the man down and again headed for the disintegrating aid station. The sergeant pulled a third wounded man away from the barrage and carried him to the trenches.
Fifty shells had poured in on the American position before the enemy launched an infantry assault to dislodge the crippled unit. Two charges crashed into the lines, and twice that night the 1st Battalion, 128th, drove off the Japanese with heavy casualties.
Two days later, on the 27th, Colonel John Hettinger, commander of the 128th, was reconnoitering the front when the Japanese spotted his jeep. The vehicle was immediately caught in an artillery barrage. The colonel and his driver made it to a foxhole. Seconds later, however, the foxhole took a direct hit and Hettinger was killed.
The 128th now experienced the same kind of slugfest that had characterized the 127th's fighting. The drive eastward continued as a series of frontal assaults on the hills of the Salacsac passes. Hill 503, bypassed by the 127th, was secured. The 114th Engineers were brought up to broaden the trail. Major Thomas Bell of E Company was behind a bulldozer when it tore into an embankment on the side of the trail. Four Japanese spilled out onto the road from their suddenly exposed cave. Bell's men made short work of them. Before the end of March, Hills 504 and 505 were won.
General Konuma launched a counterattack on the night of March 31. The Japanese target was Hill 504, held by L Company. The American soldiers were caught in a desperate struggle. Under the relentless onslaught, Pfc William Shockley urged his squad to escape while he provided covering fire. He told his fellow GIs that he would "remain to the end." He stopped the charge to his immediate front but was flanked by the enemy. As Shockley's last avenue of escape was being cut off by a banzai attack, he remained at his post to buy the time his squad needed to escape. The 27-year-old GI continued firing until overwhelmed by his enemies. For his sacrifice, Shockley was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
Despite the heroism of men like Shockley, L Company was pushed off the hill. The loss of that position meant the American foothold on the Salacsac passes was threatened. An entire U.S. battalion was committed to a dawn counterattack. Though it stemmed the westward flow of Japanese and prevented the loss of all ground east of Hill 502, portions of Hill 504 remained in enemy hands at the end of April 1.
The I Corps released the 126th Infantry Regiment at that point, bringing it up on the 128th's left. Colonel Oliver Dixon, the commander of the 126th, targeted the high ground north of the trail. The plan was to tie down the defenders of Yamashita Ridge so that the 128th could push through the Salacsac passes without drawing harassing fire from the north. Together, the two regiments blasted their way through the entrance to the passes. Initially, the first pass was declared secured on April 10, but as pockets of Japanese continued to dig out from their sealed caves—emerging from the ground like corpses back from the dead—the first pass could not be considered secured until April 16.
It was at this time that Krueger assured Gill that the 32nd was doing all that was expected of it and told him not to expect any relief. Gill was reduced to the expedient of rotating his attacking regiments. He relieved the gutted 128th with the 127th. The 126th was to continue its push against Yamashita Ridge.
The fighting along the trail continued with brutal monotony as the Americans located, isolated and then destroyed individual strongpoints. On April 24, Lieutenant Patrinos' G Company was moving in tandem with E Company to isolate just such a strongpoint when Patrinos realized that he had lost contact with the other company. Patrinos called back to his company commander to find out what he should do and was instructed to throw a phosphorous grenade, alerting E Company to his location.
Patrinos threw the grenade and moved his platoon after it. Then he heard a plane directly overhead. The American pilot had seen the smoke from the grenade, mistaken it for a marker of an enemy position and commenced his bomb run. Patrinos managed to make it to a burned-out Japanese hole, but most of his men were not so lucky. G Company took 25 casualties from the misplaced bomb—11 of the men could only be listed as missing in action since there were no remains to identify.
G and E companies had been approaching Hill 508, the backbone of the Japanese defenses in the Salacsac passes area, when they were blasted by their own air support. Battered G Company was pulled out of the attack. Five days later, E Company would take the summit of 508, only to find itself virtually surrounded by Japanese emerging from caves that honeycombed the hill.
For the first two weeks in May, the "Kongo Fortress," as the GIs dubbed Hill 508, was a cauldron of death. The landscape itself suggested a vision of Hell—the trees blasted into stumps, the ground scorched from flamethrowers used to burn out spider holes. Soldiers of the 127th died in attacks, in foxholes and in secured rear areas. Men of the Red Arrow division who had suffered through Buna, survived Aitape and braved Leyte were killed or wounded on the steep slopes of the Kongo Fortress.
One of those wounded was Patrinos, pinned down against the side of the mutilated hill. His battalion commander hailed him on the radio and informed him that the company on his right was cut off. Patrinos replied that he would "see what kind of shape they're in," and scrambled toward the missing company's position. Patrinos quickly determined that the wayward company was in better condition than his own unit. As he started to dash back to his own outfit, a bullet shattered his shoulder blade.
Meanwhile, on Yamashita Ridge, the 126th had been relieved by the 128th. Fred Johnson, the 1st Battalion medic, and his men were ordered forward when a squad was ambushed and several soldiers were wounded. Japanese machine guns continued to spray the fallen GIs, and Johnson could see puffs of dust from their fatigues as the bullets ripped into them. Johnson and his men managed to get the wounded off the hill but were then hit themselves, four of the eight stretcher-bearers going down in a split second. The Americans were finally pushing the Japanese off the Villa Verde Trail, but they were paying dearly for each patch of ground.
To support the reduction of the Kongo Fortress, Captain Maynard of the 128th was ordered to accomplish the impossible. In the late hours of May 3, Maynard led a reinforced company in darkness through the trackless mountains and deployed to launch a dawn attack on the enemy's supply line. Maynard had pounded into the men the need for silence on the approach, and it paid off when his unit took up its position undetected by the Japanese. American .50-caliber machine guns cut loose on the enemy at dawn. Maynard remembered, "At the end of the machine-gun fire we jumped off…and ran into a bunch of [Japanese] that were on the trail, and above the trail…."
Maynard's men were locked in a firefight that grew into a 30-minute engagement. The Japanese fought fiercely, knowing that loss of the trail would doom their compatriots on Hill 508. Maynard's men fought with equal ferocity. They were behind enemy lines, with no hope of immediate relief. Finally, the Japanese broke. Maynard established a roadblock, and despite numerous enemy counterattacks, held the position until relieved days later.
The roadblock stopped the flow of supplies to the Kongo Fortress forces and enabled the Americans to sweep the enemy from the area. Now remnants of Japanese units pitched into the American lines in useless suicide attacks or were buried alive in their caves. The Americans seized the high ground, leveling anti-aircraft cannons at the dug-in enemy positions before Imugan. The artillery slaughtered Konuma's men. On May 28, the men of the Red Arrow division captured the village.
General Gill's soldiers had cracked Yamashita's mountain fortress. Along with the 25th Division, which had seized Santa Fe from the south, the 32nd had shattered all organized resistance in the Caraballo Mountains. From the seizure of Imugan until his surrender on September 2, 1945, Yamashita would simply be running from the U.S. Army.
After the war, General Gill was asked if the price paid by the 32nd Division for that goat path in the clouds had been too high. Gill answered: "The Villa Verde Trail cost us too high in battle casualties for the value received. In other words…I believe the supreme commander [MacArthur] and…his staff violated one of the great principles of shopping…." Gill clarified that statement by explaining that MacArthur had paid too much for what he got. The 32nd had gained too little for the men it had lost.
This article was written by Tracy L. Derks and originally appeared in the February 2002 issue of World War II. For more great articles subscribe to World War II magazine today!
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I have long lasting memories of my 121 days on the Villa Verde Trail with HQ Co. 1st Bat. 127th Infantry under Capt. Robert E. Vick Co. Commander and Major Powell Fraser, 1st Bat. Commaner. I also served i Leyte for 35 days.
Hello all – My late father Henry Zabierek served in WW2 with the 127th, I Company. He fought along the Villa Verde Trail and wrote about it in his book "Beyond Pearl Harbor." If anyone wants a copy of the book, I would be happy to share it with them.
I would appreciate sharing your book Beyond Pearl Harbor. My father was in the 127th Infantry, Co. C (and Co. B before he received his battlefield commission), and was at Buna, Aitape, Villa Verde Trail, among other skirmishes as he alway put it.
Hi Robert: My Uncle Robert E. VanBogart "Bogey Bob" was a platoon leader Staff Sgt A-Co 127th; he was also on Leyte and was KIA 5-March, 45 on the Villa Verde Trail. His commanding officer was Sheldon M. Dannelly. Did you know Bob? If so, our family would greatly appreciate any stories you remember. jvb
Hey Jon: My Grandfather Clyde J. Wilkinson was a pfc A-co 127th. he was wounded on 5-March, 45 on the Villa Verde Trail. Unfortunatly I have no stories and am actually looking for some myself. Just thought thet would have possibly been together on March 5th. If you know antthing else I would appreciate any info.
Mr. Van Zandt, I am wondering whether you knew or served with my father, Edward J. (Fritz) Krzmarcik (1918-1997). I am working on a manuscript regarding my father's experiences in WWII.
Hello Lynn –
I can send you a copy of my father's book. Could you send me your address to pmz5@yahoo.com? Thanks.
- Peter
Would the draft broads have any records of men that was ww2 ?
Heckuva good job. I sure apprieacte it.
I thank the author for this article. My late father, a veteran of the 32nd, always spoke highly of Maj. Gen. Gill; MacArthur not so much. This article likely speaks volumes as to why he felt the way he did. I've found few accounts of the war on Luzon and its a breath of fresh air to find this one.
I have a letter that Gen. Gill wrote to the 32nd congratulating them on their efforts. Let me know if you'd like a copy.
Hi
my father was also in the 128th unit,32nd red arrow div. he was a staff sarg.
Yes i would like a copy if I could thanks…
thanks:
Charlie Nieto
My Uncle Robert E Van Bogart was KIA 5-March, 1945 on the Villa Verde Trail. He served in the 127th CO-A, Staff Sgt-Platoon Leader. I would love to get a copy of Gen-Gill’s letter. jvb
here is my email: jvb@cleanfuelusa.com
Robert E Van Bogart was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, (2) Purple Hearts, Bronze Star, Presidential Unit Citation and other unit citations awards given the 127th. He was from MN and joined the WI National Guard after Perl Harbor. He passed through Camp Roberts in Paso Robles, CA and Fort Ord in Monterey, CA before being shipped out to Australia from San Francisco with the 32nd
I would greatly appreciae the letter General Gill wrote to the 32.
Thank you!
Lynn (Krzmarcik) Kordus
Sharon,
My grandfather who we have buried today was a member of the 32nd. He never spoke of his days in the army and of the war. Today a lot of my family learned all the he did during his time during the war. I would like to get a copy of that letter for my grandmother to have. Thank you
Hi, Sharon, I would greatly appreciate receiving a copy of Gen. Gill's letter to the 32nd. Thank you!
Hi, Sharon,
My uncle was with Co. C, 128th Infantry Regiment of the 32nd Division. I would greatly appreciate receiving a copy of Gen. Gill's letter to the 32nd.
Thank you!
Bob Karberg
Tas1bo@aol.com
Hello Sharon – my late father fought with I Company. Could I get a copy of the letter? Thanks.
Sharon
I also was on the villa verde trail and was wounded just a few months before the war ended .I was one of the lucky ones ,who returned to duty .
I would like very much to have a copy to give to my Family before i pass on I an 91 now .Please hurry
Send to a,w. Lawler
!00 court St. Apt # 407
Thank you so very much
Sharon
I screwed up my first mail ,so will try again
I was with the 32nd Div on the villa verde trail ,Wounded and later returned to duty ..I would like a copy Geg Gill's letter for my Family ..I an 91 ,so please hurry My address is Mr. A w lawler
!00 court St. Apt. 407
Oshkosh Wi. 54901
Thank you so very much
My father Herbert Baldwin of the 126th always spoke highly of Gen Gill. I would like to have a copy of the letter. Thanks Mike Baldwin
sharon
i would like a copy of that letter. my dad don't like to talk about the war. he is 85 now and has started talking alittle. thank you for any infor. you can send. he was in the 127 inf. com. k 32 division.
My Dad was in the 32. I would love to have a copy of the letter. Thank you so much.
I am trying to get information about my Grand Father Isadore
( Chilo ) Yanez. He Served in the 127th Infantry Regiment During
World War II. I was advised by his Brother that he fought in the Luzan region of the Phillippnes He was dafted late in 1944 and was killed in action on 7/30/1945. he was 27 years old. Any information about him would be Great. I am trying to complete a section of a Family History Book that my Great Uncle wasnt able to complete due to lack of information and he has since past away. My e-mail is jrbranek2@yahoo.com
Thank you!
I served with your grandfather and distinctly remember seeing him on highway 11. I would love to talk about what I saw if you are still interested. Please email at cappys2@socal.rr.com. My name is John. Thank you.
Oregonian, 1 Oct 1945, page 7.
Medal Given To Portlander
With The 32nd Infantry Division In Northern Luzon, Sept 30 (Special)
First Lt. John P. Dorigan of Portland, Or, has been awarded posthumously the silver star for gallantry in action near the Garaballo mountains on Luzon.
He was leading a large supply train to relieve a company surrounded by Japs when a hidden Nip machine gun opened fire on them, inflicting a number of casualties. Dorigan quickly deployed his men and began to work his way forward to the enemy position. He threw hand grenades into the Jap installation, knocking out the gun and three of its crew, and then killed the other two Japs with his rifle, his citation states.
Lt. Dorigan, who is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Dorigan, 5533 N.E. 9th avenue, was a member of the Oregon national guard and began overseas duty early in 1942 [with the 41st division]. Veteran of four major campaigns, he held the combat infantryman's badge, the Asiatic Pacific ribbon and the Philippine liberation medal.
Oregonian, Sunday, 1 Apr 1945, page 42 (p. 2 Sports sec.)
Lt. John Dorigan Killed In Action
Lt. John Dorigan, all-city football end at Jefferson high school in 1939, was killed in action in the Pacific theater March 8, according to word received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Dorigan.
Lt. Dorigan, only recently promoted from second to first lieutenant, went overseas with the famous 41st infantry division 38 months ago. At the time of his death he was attached to the 32nd infantry division in the Philippines.
John F Dorigan is my husbands Uncle. How can I get this article that was in the Oregonian.
Thank you.
All veterans and families of those that served with the men of the 32nd need to read the book Bloody Buna by Lido Mayo. You will get a real account of what MacArthur was all about. You will also understand why the 32nd has never received the accolades that it deserves for their actions in the War. I get so sick of watching programs that can't get the story straight about what those men did. It wasn't the marines that were first to fight the Japanese nor were they the first to defeat them. It was also not the 82nd or the 101st to parachute into combat all of this was done by the 32nd. if you read the book I referenced it will all become clear that MacArthur is the reason why the unit is not accurately displayed in Military History.
There is also a Saturday Evening Post article from November 10, 1945 entitled "The Red Arrow Pierced Every Line" by T/4 Charles P. Murdock. I have a yellowed torn copy of it. I'm going to see if I can get a complete copy.
Hi Sharon
Is there any way i could get a copy of that article or how i could buy one please thanks..
thanks:
Charlie
I have that same Saturday Evening Post my father kept a copy of it rolled up in a card board cylinder. I went on ebay and found a miuch better copy. I have the complete mag.
I would love to help anyone out I can make copies of the article from The Saturday Evening Post. I am very thrilled to read these stories with tears in my eyes. God bless you all.
HI Donald
would you make a copy for me please.. That would be great
thanks
Charlie
I would greatly appreciate seeing that article. Is there any way it can be scanned and emailed? I am working on a manuscript about my father's experiences in the Southwest Pacific with 127th Co. B (and later C). Thank you!
Lynn (Krzmarcik) Kordus
Hi, Sharon, I would greatly appreciate a scanned copy of this article if you are able to do that.Thank you!
I have an undated newspaper article about my father, Pfc Joseph P. Langowski and Pfc William F. Millsap. I wanted to share it with the audience and it would be great to hear from others who may have relatives that served with my father. Following is the content of the artilce:
MINTO MAN SERVES AS EXPERT SNIPER
Pfc Joseph Langowski and Buddy Kill 12 Japs in Ten Days in Luzon Foxhole
For ten days along the Villa Verde trail on nothern Luzon in the Philippines, Pfc Joseph P. Langowski of Minto (N.D.) and another man maintained a sniper position and beat the Japs at their own game. Pfc langowski is an "L" compnay rifleman in the 32nd infantry regiment.
My husband was in the 32nd and proudly told me quite a bit about being in Leyte, Buna, about the Villa Verde Trail, as well as the Phillipines and all. He was with his Father ( who everyone called "THE OLD MAN" and two of his brothers. They were a family of very patriotic men……….The father was Archie C Vanskike, with sons Archie, Clarence and Louis. We met in 1947 and married in 1948 and he told me many stories about being OVER THERE and that he was only 17 when they all enlisted. Thankfully they all returned home to Galveston, TX unharmed. I so enjoy reading about what they did, confirming all I had been told. What great men they were! We are so proud of them !
Sadly, he passed away in 1979 of cancer and we miss him !!
My email address is kdelle@att.net.
Submitting the rest of the article referenced above….MINTO MAN SERVES AS EXPERT SNIPER
Co. "L" was holding a hill that frequently drew Jap sniper fire from cave positions thirty yards away. Pfc Langowski and his buddy, Pfc. William F Millsap of Copperas Cove, Tex., crept towards the Japs during the night and dug a two-man fox-hol under cover of darkness.
For ten days the two men never left their camouflaged positions. it rained every night but they lay motionless in their muddy hole listening to the Japs search for them in the sodden bush. Every morning they would snipe at the enemy caves until they drew heavy fire. Then they would keep low and wait, one man on guard while the other slept. After the ten-day period, during which the two killed twelve Japs, they returned safely to their unit.
Pfc Langowski is one of the three Langowskis in the service. His brother, PFC Julian, is a rifleman in the infantry and Stanley another brother, is an ambulance driver. Their father lives in Minto. (N. D.)
Entering the army in June of 1944, Pfc Langowski had his basic gtraining at Camp Fannin, Tex. He left for the Southwest Pacific in December of 1944 and was assigned to the veteran 32nd diviaion. He is now in the mountains bordering the Cagayan Valley on nothern Luzon. His wife lives in Pisek. (N.D.)
-end of artlice-
My father returned home safely after serviing a short time in Occupied Japan as a carpenter.
He continued his career as a master carpenter and retired at the age of 80. He was the proud father of fourteen children.
Hello – I have photos my father Frank ( Keaco ) Pando took on Luzon, (Yamaguchi) Honsho Japan. He was with the 128th 32nd Div L Co. I have a picture of the Camp's Entrance with their 128th sign and my dad wrote " Entrance to camp. Former jap officer training camp. G.I. and mp policeman" There are 2 men he must be referencing but faces aren't detectable.
Also some from Fort Benning GA Aug 1944 Parachute Training Co I 2D Prct Trgn Reg Other men named are Manuel C. Muela & Isidro C. Orozco
I wish there was a site to upload these to for any soldiers to remember.
My father, S Sarg. Roger G. Lewis returned to his co. in late May (32nd, 127th, Co G.) shortly after his comapny was bombed by friendly fire on the Villa Verde Trail. He had been recouperating from Scrub Typhus in New Guinea when he was returned to his company. He stated that he got back and his whole company was gone. All his friends were dead. He rarely talked of the war, but that statemnt was told a few times. Even after 55 years he remembered it. It obviously made a huge impact on him.
Regarding 2nd LT. Patrinos mentioned in the above history. Lt of Co., G. I talked to him just a few weeks ago. He is alive and well and in his 90's. I feel that a military group should do something for him in acknowledging his service.
Thank You,
Carolyn (Lewis) Denson
Yes,I remember that bombing incident very well.We,"F" Company, were positioned on a ridge just to the right of "G" Company and they were in plain view of our positions.A group of planes bombing Jap positions just ahead of our positions had just finished their bomb run when the last plane in formation,for some unknown reason to us, peeled off and droped a bomb squarly on "G" company's position.We were ordered to occupy the area where "G" company had BEEN. I will never forget digging my foxhole and digging up pieces of human flesh.I hope this info helps.
Hi,
Thank you for your response. From what Lt. Patrinos told me, F Co. had disappeared from Co G's view. He called down to his commanding officer and was ordered to shoot off a phospherous grenade so the 2 companies could locate each other and keep from shooting each other, by accident. That the bombers only had a short time (gas) to deliver their bombs before landing. That 2 bombs actually landed on them.
My e-mail address is
mcthelodge@comcast.net
and I would be interested in anything else you remember.
Thank You,
Carolyn
Hello Mr Marquez. I'm posting this in case you are interested. I just posted this message above at 10.1 – I have photos my father Frank ( Keaco ) Pando took on Luzon, (Yamaguchi) Honsho Japan. He was with the 128th 32nd Div L Co. I have a picture of the Camp's Entrance with their 128th sign and my dad wrote " Entrance to camp. Former jap officer training camp. G.I. and mp policeman" There are 2 men he must be referencing but faces aren't detectable.
Also some from Fort Benning GA Aug 1944 Parachute Training Co I 2D Prct Trgn Reg Other men named are Manuel C. Muela & Isidro C. Orozco
My uncle, Pvt Felix Herrman of Liebenthal Kansas, was in A Company, 128th. He wrote a story about this fighting on the Trail. He is still alive, and lives in La Crosse, Kansas.
To all the veterans – thank you for your sacrifice.
–Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to go on in the face of fear.
My Grandfather S SGT Ramon Nieto was in the 128th, so might have known your Uncle, my Uncle has pictures as well my email is reldoc0@yahoo.com and Im very interested in your unlce's story on the trail knowing my Grandfather was probably right beside him in battle, contact me so we share info
How could i get a copy…
my dad served in WW2 also 128th- 32nd- red arrow Div.
buy or ???
thanks
Charlie Nieto
( Indio Cal.)
Hi Charlie,
Just saw your e-mail my computer sent to spam. Any way I will get you a copy. Also try e-bay that is where I found a copy. I paid 18 dollars for it.
My father served with the 114th Engineers battalion, Company A. I am preparing a shadow box of his military ribbons. I cannot find any patches for his unit or the 126th infantry that made up the regimental combat team. Can anyone help me? Where to look?
I have some – the red arrow division, the luzon campaign
My father was with the 32nd band from watertown Wis, guard and later went to OCS. He served in New Guinea with the 126th. He would not talk about his service in those campaigns. He came home a changed person… I would be grateful for any information from people who knew him or about his service. What these brave men went through should never be forgotten. Thank God for every one of them.
dwoerpel@merr.com
Before i came to America i leave in a small town of san nicolas,pangasinan in the foot of mount caraballo w/ serve the starting point of the in famous Villa verde trail.i heard so much heroic act of the 32nd Red arrow division by my townsmates.Hoping that someday will have a reanacment to know those who liberate us in world war II.
My father Roger Lewis befriended many Phillipinos during his time there. In particular a doctor called Irineo Tanwangco. My grandmother stated that he saved my fathers life when he was ill. I have 2 letters of their correspondence and a picture of Dr. Tanwangco and his wife.
I just wanted to let you know that this American is greatly appreciative of all the help that the Phillipine people gave during WWII.
Carolyn
My Great Uncle Omar(Scott) Snyder was a SSG in Company M, 3rd Bn, 127th Infantry. He joined them in March 1943, along with a pal, Arthur Sorley. Scott(also known as O.S.) was killed 30 Nov 1944 while supporting an attack by Co.'s I and L, 127th. This happened at a ridge about 1200 Yards south of Limon, Leyte. There were two wounded in this action, PFC Leland Ewer and PFC Ervin Ernst. Looking for info on Omar Snyder and his friend Art Sorley. They both were from Montana.
They both served in New Guinea also.
Steve McNeal
503-580-9088
I have trying to track down anyone who knew my uncle. I am looking for copies of pictures and any other information you have about him. Here is the information I have on him:
127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division
Entered the Service from: Washington
Died: 23-Mar-45
Buried at: Plot A Row 3 Grave 170
Manila American Cemetery
Manila, Philippines
feel free to contact me at redromad@aol.com
My father, Warren J. Boes, from Coldwater, MI, was in the 32nd (Red Arrow) Division at the beginning of WWII. I can recall him telling me that he shipped out for Austraila from San Francisco in 1942. I know he was an Alamo Scout, having graduated in the first training class and went on one or two missions (his name and one of his missions mentioned in a book by Lance Zedric about the Scouts) but I don't know much after that. I would appreciate any and all info about him during the rest of the war. He went on to rise to the rank of Sergeant Major and was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantrymans Badge, the Air Medal with cluster, and the Army Commendation Medal with cluster. He also served in Korea with an outfit called the Mosquito Squadron. He died while on active duty at Ft. Devens, MA in November, 1965.
I am so very delightful to know the heroic act of the Red Arrow Division to liberate my town of San Nicolas,Pangasinan in the Footstep otf the Mount Caraballo the road towards Villa Verde Trail..I never know all of you in the Division but whoever you are now you guys will be always in my mind and heart.Thank you so much for the cause…
My dad was a medic in the 32nd infantry red arrow division and was on the villa verde trail – later named the red arrow trail. I have pictures of it but I guess you can't post pictures to this blog. I have pictures of other men in his unit which I would be happy to post or send. He only wrote first names for some of the men, or referred to them as "pal". He was deployed from 1942-45 and returned stateside after being wounded. Please let me know if you'd like pictures – I have lots of them.
Sharon -
I would love to see the pictures. My husbands undle was in the 32nd Division and was killed on March 8, 1945 on the villa verde trail. His name was Lt. John P. Dorigan.
Thank you.
Sharon -
You can reach me at lesliemcguigs@comcast.net.
Thanks!
Hi Sharon:
My father was also in the 32nd infantry red arrow divisionin the Villa Verde Trail. And he was wounded shot twice.. His name was
Ramon Nieto (Ray)… SSG
I would love to see the pictures you could E-Mail me or let me know how I could recive them that would be great thanks….
thank you
charlie
My E-Mail is chasfran1@yahoo.com
Hi, Sharon, I would greatly appreciate seeing any photos. My email for big files like photos is lmkordus@yahoo.com
My father served in the 127th/Co. B and later C and was wounded on the Villa Verde Trail. His name was Edward J. Krzmarcik, but everyone called him Fritz. I am working on a manuscript about his experiences in the Southwest Pacific.
Thank you!
I am the nephew of US Army S/Sgt. Gerald Endl, a Congressional Medal of Honor and two Purple Heart recipient. He was with Co. C, 128th Infantry Regiment of the 32nd Division.
My search is to locate a list for the names of the 11 comrades and second platoon, or their survivors, he saved on 11 July 1944, near Anamo, New Guinea. My objective is to display in a museum exhibit his Medals honorably and to give gratitude to those who have served with or saved and rightfully deserve such a recognition. tas1bo@aol.com
Hi, Sharon, are any photos identified with anyone named "Fritz" or "Fritzie"? That was my father's nickname (Edward J. Krzmarcik). Thank you!
My uncle US Army S/Sgt. Gerald Endl, was with Co. C, 128th Infantryof the 32nd. Is it possible that you have any photos. Gerald is a MOH and 2-PurpleHeart recipient. He saved 11 comrades and one platoon but was killed that day on 11 July1944. Any information would be greatly appreciated. My address is: Tas1bo@aol.com
Sharon I would love to see copies of those pictures and the letter you spoke of, my dad Harry Michalski was a Staff Seargenat with the 32nd 127th infantry Company C
Hi saw your posting about your Dad on the villa verde trail. I have a Great-Uncle who was killed on Leyte with the 32nd division. He was in M company 127th Infantry. I have been searching for photos from Leyte or New Guinea of these units. I was wondering if you still have access to the photos you referenced.
Thanks for your time
SteveMcNeal
503-580-9088
smcneal1957@yahoo.com
I am trying to track down anybody who knew my husband's uncle John P Dorigan, 32nd div., and may know the circumstances of his death on March 8, 1945 on the Villa Verde Trail.'You may contact me at lesliemcguigs@comcast.net.
Thank you.
I am looking for anyone who may have served with my Father in WWII. He was in the 128th unit of the 32nd red arrow division and was involved in the invasion of Leate in the Phillipian Islands. Dad was PFC Edward W. Morrison.
My father was also in the 128th unit – 32nd red arrow division S/ SGT. Nieto.
My Grandfather, Mike McDermott served in the 128th unit C CompNY of the 32nd Red Arrow Division. He is still alive and has his faculities. We just discussed the trail the other day and he told me to look up information on it. I will ask Grandpa if he remembers the name. Also, if anyone is related to someone with the last name Lemus, Hispanic young man from California who died in action, i would like for you to contact me: paul.kathy.fisher@gmail.com
My father, Eugene J Doebley, served in 32nd Division, 128th Infantry, Company L. He shipped out for Austraila from San Francisco in 1942. He then was sent to New Guinea and the Philippines. He was injured in April 1945 near Baguio by a mortar shell and was sent home. Dad is 92 years old and would love to hear from any of his old buddies.
My Grandfather, Mike McDermott, served in the 32nd Division, 128th Infantry, Company C. They may not know one another but Grandpa is 89 and would be interested in visiting. You may reach him via me, his grandaughter at: paul.kathy.fisher@gmail.com.
Hi Barbara, My dad took pictures of men in Ft Benning, GA – Paracute Training 1944. I have 3 pictures of men – no names. Could your dad be in these?
I didn't search it yet but I just found this site called WWII in Color. Photos can be uploaded. http://www.ww2incolor.com/ I had been here first wishing I could upload to you all and this site may be a great place to see many more from the 32nd Division…???
My Father, Edward Walter Morrison passed away 8years ago. I have an interest in learning more about his service. He never talked about it in the early years but shared with me wnen he was older. He was shot through the throat in April of 1945 in the Phillipean Islands. It was a gun accident and he was shot with a US 45 pistol. He was sent home to die but by the mercy of God lived to raise his seven children of wich I am the youngest.
Glad your Dad is still with you. Looking for someone who remembers dad.
Thanks for responding.
My Great Uncle Robert Melvin Powell was reported killed at Luzon. My Grandfather (his brother) wore a ring that was sent home with Melvins personal effects. I remember my grandfather wearing this ring everyday of his life. It was a silver ring with the red arrow insignia. Since his passing I have continured to wear his ring. I was wondering if there is anyone that may have a similiar ring or know any history as to wear the soldiers may have obtained it. Also, if anyone has any knowledge of Robert "Melvin" Powell I would certainly be interested. However hopeful, I doubt this will come to pass. According to my Grandfather, Melvin passed without having spent a large amount of time in combat, As he said, a large Georgia boy carrying one of the few BAR's makes a tempting first target.
if you have any info, please reply to
tkhuddleston@cox.net
Thanks,
Chris
Have you found any sources for obtaining a ring with the Red Arrow insignia? I would like to obtain one as my father was 32nd Division, 127th Infantry, Co. B (later C). Thank you!
My father had a red arrow ring also. If you go on the genforum WWII site there is a discussion about them. My dad worked in the factories of MI and supposedly made his own ring after the war, but some say they were also made in the field by a fellow. He supposedly used red toothbrushes melted down to create the red of the arrow. My fathers ring was made of white metal with the red arrow insignia in the front with the arrow tip pointing up to his first knuckle. It was a plain ring, but meant a lot to him.
Carolyn
I've read the genforum posts and not sure the ring I have is anything like what was mentioned there. I will take a photo of it and post a link here. Me and My Grandfather wore his ring for so many years the back of the band cracked and I have it put away with the intention of getting it repaired.
Pictures of Red Arrow ring sent home with the personal effects from my Great Uncle Robert "Melvin" Powell after being KIA
https://picasaweb.google.com/115186067539896370999/ScrapbookPhotos?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Posted a link to the photos of the Red Arrow ring, however looks like the comment ts stuck awaiting moderation (probably due to posting a link) If you would like the photos emailed to you just let me know.
My uncle, Pvt. James Curtis Morrow was killed by a guard near the 128th command post on Nov. 30, 1944. He was in Co.M, 127th Reg., 32nd Div. I would love to hear from anyone who has information about this friendly fire incident.
My Uncle, Warren R. Wiles, was in the 127th infantry, 32nd. division, Co. L, Red Arrow Division.
He was awarded the Asiac -Pacific Service Medal
The Philipine Liberation Ribbon
and the Cir. 136 WD 45 Lapel Button.
I would like to know if anybody might remember serving with him and give me more inforamation that I may record more info in my family tree. The only story he ever told me was of hiding in fox holes so close to the japs that he could smell them and hear them.
He past away on June 9, 2001 in Cherryvale, Kansas.
Any additional servicce info about him would be greatly appriaciated.
Thank you and all of our service men and women, God Bless!
My Dad, Carney Fields was in Company "K", 126th Infantry, 32 Div. According to the letters from the war department that was sent to my mother stated that on the11 of April 1945 the enemy laid down an artillery barrage on their positions on Mt Imugan, Villa Verde Trail, Luzon. Carney was hit by Shell fragments and was killed instantly. Even though I was to young when he was killed to have any memory of him. I do enjoy reading the blogs and I will place this web site in my favorites.
My grandfather, Bithel Price was a BAR man in Company K, 126th Infantry. Until recently, my grandpa wouldn't even talk about his service in WWII other than to say that he served in the Philippines or comment about climbing cargo netting with 50lbs of equipment on his back. He isn't one that likes to tell war stories.
I am a history teacher and I just finished viewing "The Pacific" mini-series from HBO. Today (9/5/2011) I called my grandpa and told him I was doing research. I asked him about his experiences in WWII, which had been a somewhat taboo subject.
While my 93 year old grandfather did not go into stories of combat, he did tell me that he served in K Company, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division. As a BAR man, he had to carry a 19 lb weapon, 400 rounds of ammunition, 2 canteens, a backpack, and two grenades. He was "up in the hills" of Luzon where the rainfall "cooled you off for about 30 minutes."
After that, sent to Japan and released from service in 1946. He returned to Oklahoma and farmed for several years.
My e-mail address is NativeFields@aol.com
My Father, Tec Sarge Anthony F Opalacz served with the 1st BN 128TH INF REG from 1942 until 1945. He participated in the campaigns in New Guinea, the Southern Philippines and Luzon. He never spoke of his experiences but they certainly had a profound effect on him.
Hi, I'm looking for any information about my father, Fred McQuibben, who served in Company "K", 32nd Infantry. He arrived in the APT in June of '45. He wouldn't speak much of the war. His war records were destroyed and all I have are his discharge and separation papers.
Thank you,
Greg Mcquibben
gmcquibben@eagles.nfl.com
My father served with Red Arrow 32nd Division, H Company, 127th Infantry, Joseph Hicks. He never talked about the war and suffered from PTSD. He died a year ago, right after he started talking about his experience and memories. Right now I am watching a special on the Korean War on Military Channel…Crying…To all you guys, I didn't know, how terrible..how courageous. Thanks cannot express what I feel for your service.
Thank you,
Gail Hogentogler
Images of Valle Verde Trail and Sherman tank at Imugan.
http://360virtualphilippines.blogspot.com/
My grandfather, Woody SItes, was a Tech Sergeant in Company F of the 127th. He died in 1967 when I was only 5, but my grandmother had a scrapbook of his from the 32nd Division.
My grandfather's brother Dale Sites was killed in New Guinea, and I believe he might also have been in the 32nd.
My father also served there for 2 + years with the 126 Infantry Company E, Tech Sgt. John H. Morley would love to find out more information on his outfit if anybody out there knows of it.Thank You
Kerry:
Was your father from the Big Rapids (or W. Mich) area? Contact me an I may have some info for you.
H i Kerry,
I was in Co. E. I joined them at Aitapi on 2 July. I was wounded on Leyte 6 Dec and sent back to the US..
This is a wonderful source of information concerning actions in the M-1 Linguyan Gulf Operations. My father, S/Sgt. Paul Malbuisson, served with the 201st CIC which was a functioning unit with I Corps. I would appreciate hearing from anyone with knowledge of CIC activities on Luzon, especially those regarding the securing of Philippine government silver pesos at or near San Nicolas. You may find http://www.201stCIC.com of interest.
Thanx.
Roger Malbuisson
I have a great Uncle Robert Rosenbaum 128th Ifn. Reg. Co. K.
KIA Papua New Guinea in November 1942.
Any who may have known this great American Hero who gave the ultimate sacrifice for his fellow countryman, it would be great to hear from you!
My grandfather, John L Akers was a member of the 32 Infantry Red Arrow Division. He recently passed away at the age of 89. He was very proud if his Purple Heart, but did not like to speak of his time spent in WWII. I would love to read some of the articles that some of you are speaking of. Anyone that has any info, would you please send to my email @ hbaumgarner@charter.net. Thank you.
Heather:
Send me an email….let me know what unit your grandfather was with, hometown, etc….I may have some data.
I had an uncle named Raymond Larson from Troy South Dakota that was wounded by a grenade on hill 7, Villa Verde Trail on April 16th and died April 20, 1945. He was attached to Company M, 128th Inf. Regiment 32nd div, And would like correspondence from anyone that served with him or had a relative that knew him.
Sharon,
My father served with the 127th Infantry Company C and was a Staff Sargeant. I would love to have a copy of that letter.
Thanks,
Ron
Ron, my father transferred to Co. C after he received his battlefield commission. Have you come across any information about him: Edward (Fritz) Krzmarcik?
lmkordus@xoax.net
I have a photo from boot camp of the 127th infantry company C group. I would believe the phot would be from early 1943. Not sure if the entire boot group would have served in the company they trained with but would assume that would be the case.
That being said if you would like the opportunity to see the photo, it is large (over 3 feet wide) but I think I could do a piece mail scan on it and send. It really is an extraordinary photo to look at, when you look at the innocent faces in the picture and contemplate that these young men (boys) probably had no idea of the hell that lied in from of the.
My Dad was Rab Leslie (Robert E.) he was in In the Red Arrow 32nd 127 Infantry Company G…life long friend of Lt. Carl Patrinos (my God Father). Dad passed in 2004 …Carl is a great man and I would love to see him honored in any way!!!
Pat
Hi Pat,
My father was also in G Co., 127th, 32nd. Dad must have known your father, as he has his name and address in a little brown book, he brought back from the war. Carl Patrinos stated his best friend, Rab Leslie, was a mortarman when I told him that my dad was one. He told me lots of stories of G Co., many of which include your father. Carl is a great guy and really helped me understand what Dad went through.
Dad brought home various pics of the men he was with. Most are unnamed. I wonder if one may of been of your father. I have pics of Rab at the reunions when he was older, but no young pic to compare.
Dad was a gunner in a mortar squad. Do you have any information on mortar squads to help me understand how they worked? I'm not sure what a gunner did?
My e-mail is:
mcthelodge@comcast.net
Thanks,
Carolyn
Well if you have any pictures with their shirts off my Dad id the very tanned one! Haha….
Next time I get together with "Pat" Carl Patrinos…I'll ask a little more about your Dad.
I know Mortar squads were called in to bail infantry out of trouble…if they were under heavy attack and grenades and guns weren't getting the job done they brought the mortar squads in to lob over the top the explosives to attempt to clear out the trouble ahead…I would think your Dad was responsible for protecting the the soldiers operating the actual mortars since their eyes are on what they are doing rather than the jungle ahead. I'll see what "Pat" says! I have quite a bit of pics and things that might show him??? Do you know what years he was there?
Pat
Hi Pat,
Carl (Pat) has told me all he could about my Dad (Roger "Pappy" Lewis). He remembered him in pictures I sent, but did not know him personally as they were in different platoons. He said the 60mm mortarmen were in 4th platoon. Your Dad being a mortarman probably knew him but since Rab was there from the beginning, my dad would have probably just been a raw recruit to him. My dad came in as a replacement in 1943 to Australia, when the 32nd was at rest after Buna and stayed to Sasebo Japan after the war ended Dec. 1945.
Funny you mention the shirt and tan. Dad never wore a shirt if he could help it and would tan extremely dark. I always wondered if the Atabrine tan stayed with you forever. His skin always had a yellow hue even in winter.
Write me at my e-mail address and possibly we could swap some pics.
mcthelodge@comcast.net
Carolyn