UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Roche in December 1941.
WILLIAM U. ROCHE
2nd Marine Division patch
Corporal William U. Roche was born on May 7, 1920 and was from Klamath Falls, Oregon.
Before the war he worked at the Weyerhauser Timber Company. On December 7, 1941 he left his job to enlist in the marines, no doubt in retaliation for the attack at Pearl Harbor. Roche enlisted on December 11.
Following recruit training in San Diego, he was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division on January 24, 1942.
Participated in the Battle of Tulagi from August 7 to October 29, 1942 and the Battle of Guadalcanal from October 30 to January 29, 1943.
On January 29, 1943 Roche was wounded in action on Guadalcanal.
Roche was discharged on September 25, 1945 for disability.
Before the war he worked at the Weyerhauser Timber Company. On December 7, 1941 he left his job to enlist in the marines, no doubt in retaliation for the attack at Pearl Harbor. Roche enlisted on December 11.
Following recruit training in San Diego, he was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division on January 24, 1942.
Participated in the Battle of Tulagi from August 7 to October 29, 1942 and the Battle of Guadalcanal from October 30 to January 29, 1943.
On January 29, 1943 Roche was wounded in action on Guadalcanal.
Roche was discharged on September 25, 1945 for disability.
USS MONTPELIER
BYRON C. TURNER
Lieutenant Colonel Byron C. Turner was born on January 12, 1921 and was from Faulkton, South Dakota.
Turner entered the Navy on July 17, 1940 and became a Midshipman. Transferred to the Marine Corps and became a 2nd Lieutenant. In the summer of 1944, he was assigned as assistant detachment commander of the Marine Detachment, USS Montpelier.
Montpelier was slightly damaged by a kamikaze attack on 27 November. She fought off numerous other kamikaze attacks, shooting down four planes. Beginning on 12 December, Montpelier provided beach cover for the invasion of Mindoro. Fighting kamikazes, she protected troops at the Lingayen Gulf landing in January 1945. In February, she supported operations off Mariveles Harbor, Corregidor, and Palawan, and from 14–23 April, she covered the landings on Mindanao. From her base at Subic Bay, she steamed to Brunei Bay, Borneo, arriving on 9 June. From 17 June to 2 July, she sailed off the oil center at Balikpapan, providing support for minesweepers, underwater demolition teams, and amphibious forces. During the latter part of July and early August, Montpelier made three anti-shipping sweeps in the East China Sea.
During the Korean War he was a company commander of Company D, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division.
Turner entered the Navy on July 17, 1940 and became a Midshipman. Transferred to the Marine Corps and became a 2nd Lieutenant. In the summer of 1944, he was assigned as assistant detachment commander of the Marine Detachment, USS Montpelier.
Montpelier was slightly damaged by a kamikaze attack on 27 November. She fought off numerous other kamikaze attacks, shooting down four planes. Beginning on 12 December, Montpelier provided beach cover for the invasion of Mindoro. Fighting kamikazes, she protected troops at the Lingayen Gulf landing in January 1945. In February, she supported operations off Mariveles Harbor, Corregidor, and Palawan, and from 14–23 April, she covered the landings on Mindanao. From her base at Subic Bay, she steamed to Brunei Bay, Borneo, arriving on 9 June. From 17 June to 2 July, she sailed off the oil center at Balikpapan, providing support for minesweepers, underwater demolition teams, and amphibious forces. During the latter part of July and early August, Montpelier made three anti-shipping sweeps in the East China Sea.
During the Korean War he was a company commander of Company D, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division.
MILLARD E. HAYS
1st Marine Division patch
Private First Class Millard E. Hays was born on July 20, 1925 and was from Dayton, Ohio.
Graduated from Liberty Short High School in 1943. After graduating he was drafted in the Marine Corps in January 1944.
He was later assigned to Company A, 1st Motor Transport Battalion, 1st Marine Division on Pavuvu prior to their next invasion.
Hays participated in the battle of Peleliu and Okinawa. After the war ended, he served in Tientsin, China. Embarked from overseas to the states on March 4, 1946 and was soon discharged.
Graduated from Liberty Short High School in 1943. After graduating he was drafted in the Marine Corps in January 1944.
He was later assigned to Company A, 1st Motor Transport Battalion, 1st Marine Division on Pavuvu prior to their next invasion.
Hays participated in the battle of Peleliu and Okinawa. After the war ended, he served in Tientsin, China. Embarked from overseas to the states on March 4, 1946 and was soon discharged.
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STEWART W. RALSTON
Colonel Stewart W. Ralston was born on October 2, 1908 and was from Trinity, California.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 4, 1930 and received a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant the following year. Ralston was a pilot and would eventually become a commanding officer for a bomb squadron.
It was 1944 when Ralston was to be sent overseas to take command of VMB-413 in the Pacific. He took command of the squadron at Munda on August 13. The squadron was outfitted with PBJ-1D's (B-25's). At this stage in the war the squadron raided both Kahili and Choiseul on a regular basis until October 18, 1944 when they moved to Emirau. From there they ran missions against Japanese forces in New Ireland and New Britain.
Ralston later received a new assignment and left the squadron on November 7, 1944. He was stateside when the war ended.
Ralston received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions in 1944:
"Stewart W. Ralston (MCSN: 0-4685), United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight, in actions against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II."
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 4, 1930 and received a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant the following year. Ralston was a pilot and would eventually become a commanding officer for a bomb squadron.
It was 1944 when Ralston was to be sent overseas to take command of VMB-413 in the Pacific. He took command of the squadron at Munda on August 13. The squadron was outfitted with PBJ-1D's (B-25's). At this stage in the war the squadron raided both Kahili and Choiseul on a regular basis until October 18, 1944 when they moved to Emirau. From there they ran missions against Japanese forces in New Ireland and New Britain.
Ralston later received a new assignment and left the squadron on November 7, 1944. He was stateside when the war ended.
Ralston received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions in 1944:
"Stewart W. Ralston (MCSN: 0-4685), United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight, in actions against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II."
JOHN W. HUHN
4th Marine Division patch
PFC John W. Huhn entered service in the Marine Corps in October 1944.
After training he was put into the 39th Replacement Draft in January 1945 and shipped out overseas. The replacement unit he was in provided replacements to the 4th Marine Division during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Huhn was likely present in the battle being that he was in the replacement draft from January to April 45.
After the war he was discharged in 1946.
After training he was put into the 39th Replacement Draft in January 1945 and shipped out overseas. The replacement unit he was in provided replacements to the 4th Marine Division during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Huhn was likely present in the battle being that he was in the replacement draft from January to April 45.
After the war he was discharged in 1946.
FREDERICK J. CLAYTON
Corporal Frederick J. Clayton, Jr. was born in 1921 and was from Long Island, New York.
Clayton enlisted in the Marine Corps on August 29, 1942. After basic training, he was sent to aviation school in Jacksonville, Florida and trained in gunnery. Soon thereafter, he was assigned to VMSB-332 as a radio gunner. The squadron was outfitted with the SBD Dauntless at the time (mid-late 1943).
During a training mission on October 18, 1943, Clayton was aboard an SBD Dauntless off the coast of North Carolina. The plane unfortunately crashed in a mid air collision at Bogue Landing Field, Cat Island, Bogue Sound, NC at 12:20pm. All 3 crew members were killed, including Cpl. Clayton. The two others in the plane were 2nd Lt. Walter R. Manny, Jr. and PFC Raymond P. Follansbee.
His remains were recovered and he was buried in Long Island, New York.
Clayton enlisted in the Marine Corps on August 29, 1942. After basic training, he was sent to aviation school in Jacksonville, Florida and trained in gunnery. Soon thereafter, he was assigned to VMSB-332 as a radio gunner. The squadron was outfitted with the SBD Dauntless at the time (mid-late 1943).
During a training mission on October 18, 1943, Clayton was aboard an SBD Dauntless off the coast of North Carolina. The plane unfortunately crashed in a mid air collision at Bogue Landing Field, Cat Island, Bogue Sound, NC at 12:20pm. All 3 crew members were killed, including Cpl. Clayton. The two others in the plane were 2nd Lt. Walter R. Manny, Jr. and PFC Raymond P. Follansbee.
His remains were recovered and he was buried in Long Island, New York.
This is the tag he was issued while he was an aviation cadet in the Navy before being commisioned as a 2nd Lt. in the Marine Corps.
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JACQUES H. ALLEN
2nd Lieutenant Jacques H. Allen was born on February 16, 1923 and was from Camden, New Jersey.
"Lieutenant Allen graduated from Haddon Heights High School in 1940 and entered the University of Virginia. A year later he went to the Drexel Institute of Technology. In 1942 he entered the Navy as an aviation cadet. He graduated from an aviation training school at Pensacola FL on October 29, 1943. After receiving his wings and commission as an air pilot he and Miss Justis were married the same day. He then went to California to train for aircraft carrier takeoff and landings.
Assigned to a land-based fighter, VMF-211, Lt. Allen flew a Voight F4U-1D Corsair fighter, and took part in the fighting in the Philippines. His squadron was based at Emirau Island, in the Bismarck Islands. After the Battle of the Leyte Gulf and the successful landing of American forces in October, the Japanese attempted to supply and reinforce their troops by convoy. This move was countered by America bringing air units to newly-readied air bases in the Philippines.
As a result of Admiral Halsey's recommendation to General MacArthur, Allied Air Forces sent a dispatch on November 30 to the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Bougainville, ordering one of its fighter groups to move to Leyte immediately. Next day General Mitchell ordered Colonel William A. Willis' Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), to transfer its four fighter squadrons, of which VMF-211 was one, to Tacloban, to arrive there not later than December 3rd.
MAG-12's combat operations in the Solomon Islands immediately ceased. All hands turned to packing and loading for the forthcoming move.
General Mitchell, a Philippine assignment in hand at last, took steps to expedite the movement. He requested and received from Fifth Air Force transportation for the minimum men and material of the ground echelon required for plane maintenance at Tacloban; from the Commander Seventh Fleet, logistic support for the forward echelon.
At dawn on December 2nd, 85 F4U's from MAG-12, 55 and 12 PBJ's from MAG-61 (one Marine PBJ was sent as a guide plane with each flight of Corsairs) took off from the Solomons for Hollandia, the first leg of their journey to the Philippines. Refueling there, the planes continued to Owi, a small island near Biak.
On December 3rd they flew to Peleliu, arriving four and a half hours after VMF(N)-541's night fighters had departed for the Philippines. Sixteen Corsairs were delayed at Peleliu with minor mechanical difficulties, but by 1700 on December 3rd, 66 of MAG-12's F4U's landed on Leyte.
At Tacloban conditions were still primitive. The muddy strip had practically no operative taxi-ways or parking facilities; operations were formidable even in good weather. On December 4th rain kept planes on the deck, but the newly arrived Marines used the time to set up camp in the only spot available-- a mudhole 300 yards due west of the southern end of Tacloban strip.
The first Marine strike against these convoys came on December 7, 1944. Army Intelligence had reported in briefing that three enemy destroyers and four cargo ships were steaming into Ormoc Bay and would still be some distance at sea at the time of attack. At 0930, 12 Corsairs of VMF-211 set out to intercept the convoy, only to find that the four cargo ships had already anchored in San Isidro harbor, and the three destroyers were departing from Leyte in the direction of Manila. Acting on the assumption that the cargo ships would have to remain in port until later in the day, the flight leader, Major Stanislaus Witomski, immediately ordered the flight to attack the destroyers. Two of the Japanese war vessels had turned in combat formation at sight of the Corsairs, leaving one destroyer separated slightly from the other two.
Army P-47's had been scheduled to furnish air cover for the Marines, but failed to arrive. Nevertheless, the Americans dived in through the protecting Japanese air cover (eight to ten "Zeke" fighters) and dropped their bombs, picking out the single destroyer as their target. No direct hits resulted, but near misses started an oil leak on the destroyer, leaving it "almost dead in the water." While the rest of the flight re-formed as protection from the Japanese fighter planes still attacking, one division of four planes remained to strafe the disabled enemy ship. With six separate strafing runs, the Marine pilots started a fire that soon spread from stem to stern of the destroyer. The Corsairs left the ship in flames, leaking oil badly, and barely underway.
The action was not without cost to the Marines. Fire from the enemy planes and ships downed three Corsairs. All three pilots bailed out, but one was lost and another died, Lt. Jacques Allen, later of injuries.
Lieutenant Allen suffered a severe injury to his nose (and supposedly a fractured skull) when he bailed out. He was rescued and sent back to the United States for treatment. Sadly, when he reached California Lieutenant Allen contracted yellow jaundice and there were further complications. His wife and parents parents were notified and went to California. Mr. and Mrs. Allen and the young bride of Lieutenant Allen, Emily Justis Allen, were with him when he died on February 8, 1945." (http://www.dvrbs.com/monuments/barrington/BarringtonWW2-JacquesAllen.htm).
"Lieutenant Allen graduated from Haddon Heights High School in 1940 and entered the University of Virginia. A year later he went to the Drexel Institute of Technology. In 1942 he entered the Navy as an aviation cadet. He graduated from an aviation training school at Pensacola FL on October 29, 1943. After receiving his wings and commission as an air pilot he and Miss Justis were married the same day. He then went to California to train for aircraft carrier takeoff and landings.
Assigned to a land-based fighter, VMF-211, Lt. Allen flew a Voight F4U-1D Corsair fighter, and took part in the fighting in the Philippines. His squadron was based at Emirau Island, in the Bismarck Islands. After the Battle of the Leyte Gulf and the successful landing of American forces in October, the Japanese attempted to supply and reinforce their troops by convoy. This move was countered by America bringing air units to newly-readied air bases in the Philippines.
As a result of Admiral Halsey's recommendation to General MacArthur, Allied Air Forces sent a dispatch on November 30 to the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Bougainville, ordering one of its fighter groups to move to Leyte immediately. Next day General Mitchell ordered Colonel William A. Willis' Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), to transfer its four fighter squadrons, of which VMF-211 was one, to Tacloban, to arrive there not later than December 3rd.
MAG-12's combat operations in the Solomon Islands immediately ceased. All hands turned to packing and loading for the forthcoming move.
General Mitchell, a Philippine assignment in hand at last, took steps to expedite the movement. He requested and received from Fifth Air Force transportation for the minimum men and material of the ground echelon required for plane maintenance at Tacloban; from the Commander Seventh Fleet, logistic support for the forward echelon.
At dawn on December 2nd, 85 F4U's from MAG-12, 55 and 12 PBJ's from MAG-61 (one Marine PBJ was sent as a guide plane with each flight of Corsairs) took off from the Solomons for Hollandia, the first leg of their journey to the Philippines. Refueling there, the planes continued to Owi, a small island near Biak.
On December 3rd they flew to Peleliu, arriving four and a half hours after VMF(N)-541's night fighters had departed for the Philippines. Sixteen Corsairs were delayed at Peleliu with minor mechanical difficulties, but by 1700 on December 3rd, 66 of MAG-12's F4U's landed on Leyte.
At Tacloban conditions were still primitive. The muddy strip had practically no operative taxi-ways or parking facilities; operations were formidable even in good weather. On December 4th rain kept planes on the deck, but the newly arrived Marines used the time to set up camp in the only spot available-- a mudhole 300 yards due west of the southern end of Tacloban strip.
The first Marine strike against these convoys came on December 7, 1944. Army Intelligence had reported in briefing that three enemy destroyers and four cargo ships were steaming into Ormoc Bay and would still be some distance at sea at the time of attack. At 0930, 12 Corsairs of VMF-211 set out to intercept the convoy, only to find that the four cargo ships had already anchored in San Isidro harbor, and the three destroyers were departing from Leyte in the direction of Manila. Acting on the assumption that the cargo ships would have to remain in port until later in the day, the flight leader, Major Stanislaus Witomski, immediately ordered the flight to attack the destroyers. Two of the Japanese war vessels had turned in combat formation at sight of the Corsairs, leaving one destroyer separated slightly from the other two.
Army P-47's had been scheduled to furnish air cover for the Marines, but failed to arrive. Nevertheless, the Americans dived in through the protecting Japanese air cover (eight to ten "Zeke" fighters) and dropped their bombs, picking out the single destroyer as their target. No direct hits resulted, but near misses started an oil leak on the destroyer, leaving it "almost dead in the water." While the rest of the flight re-formed as protection from the Japanese fighter planes still attacking, one division of four planes remained to strafe the disabled enemy ship. With six separate strafing runs, the Marine pilots started a fire that soon spread from stem to stern of the destroyer. The Corsairs left the ship in flames, leaking oil badly, and barely underway.
The action was not without cost to the Marines. Fire from the enemy planes and ships downed three Corsairs. All three pilots bailed out, but one was lost and another died, Lt. Jacques Allen, later of injuries.
Lieutenant Allen suffered a severe injury to his nose (and supposedly a fractured skull) when he bailed out. He was rescued and sent back to the United States for treatment. Sadly, when he reached California Lieutenant Allen contracted yellow jaundice and there were further complications. His wife and parents parents were notified and went to California. Mr. and Mrs. Allen and the young bride of Lieutenant Allen, Emily Justis Allen, were with him when he died on February 8, 1945." (http://www.dvrbs.com/monuments/barrington/BarringtonWW2-JacquesAllen.htm).
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Peterik's memoir written by Emilie Luebke
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Picture of Peterik in combat on Saipan.
MARK E. PETERIK
2nd Marine Division patch
Corporal Mark E. Peterik was born on September 18, 1925 and was from Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Peterik went to Lincoln High School.
Peterik enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 24, 1943. First was sent to San Diego and trained at Camp Pendleton and Camp Elliott prior to going overseas.
Peterik departed overseas and received additional training in Hawaii and Samoa. He was assigned as a replacement to 2nd Platoon, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division following the Battle of Tarawa. Peterik was utilized as a BAR gunner in his platoon. He named his BAR "THE BELCHING BITCH."
Off Saipan on D-Day, June 15, 1944, Peterik boarded an amtrack from an LST. His landing craft landed off target onto Red Beach 2 under fire. Before hitting the beach he was hit by shrapnel in the amtrack. Once hitting the beach, the amtrack was under machine gun fire, so Peterik went over the side into neck deep water. Peterik landed on the wrong beach, so he had to locate 1000 yards north where he landed. Eventually he found his unit that day.
In the following days with his unit, he fought his way inland at O-2 Hill, Mount Tapochau, Garapan, East Central and North Saipan. At O-2 Hill he killed his first Japanese soldier answering a telephone next to an anti-aircraft gun. Soon after Peterik had a close call describing "my sergeant warned me and I turned around in time to see a Japanese Marine coming at me with a saber, so I blew his head off using my BAR."
In the East Central part of Saipan his company was sent into the jungle, where he engaged and killed a Japanese soldier next to him. Soon after, he stepped on a wooden mine that didn't go off, but got the attention of more Japanese soldiers. He was wounded for a second time by a Jap grenade.
Later on, his platoon was sent on a patrol to recover a TBM Avenger crew that crashed on the island, only to find that the Japanese had murdered them. The Japanese were still in the area and captured all 13 marines in his platoon, including himself. Here they tied the marines to trees and were tortured by the Japanese. Peterik suffered broken ribs and had his teeth knocked out, almost choking on his own blood. The Japanese executed 11 of the marines and left Peterik and his friend Jerry Reed alive because they were NCO's. They were preparing to give them a slow death until his company found him and cleared the area.
Later in East Central Saipan he was wounded for a fourth time by shrapnel from a mortar. During this time he was ordered to carry a wounded marine back from the front lines and did so, despite being wounded himself. For this action he was awarded the Silver Star.
Peterik claims that during mop-up operations, him and his buddy killed 96 Japanese soldiers in one day.
Of the 155 marines in his company that invaded Saipan, only 35 were still present.
Peterik later landed at Tinian, following Saipan, where he made it through unscathed. The battle lasted from July to August 1944.
After coming home, he was discharged on January 7, 1946.
Information gathered from "FIVE FEET TO THE GATES OF HELL: Corporal Mark E. Peterik by Emilie E. Luebke"
Peterik enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 24, 1943. First was sent to San Diego and trained at Camp Pendleton and Camp Elliott prior to going overseas.
Peterik departed overseas and received additional training in Hawaii and Samoa. He was assigned as a replacement to 2nd Platoon, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division following the Battle of Tarawa. Peterik was utilized as a BAR gunner in his platoon. He named his BAR "THE BELCHING BITCH."
Off Saipan on D-Day, June 15, 1944, Peterik boarded an amtrack from an LST. His landing craft landed off target onto Red Beach 2 under fire. Before hitting the beach he was hit by shrapnel in the amtrack. Once hitting the beach, the amtrack was under machine gun fire, so Peterik went over the side into neck deep water. Peterik landed on the wrong beach, so he had to locate 1000 yards north where he landed. Eventually he found his unit that day.
In the following days with his unit, he fought his way inland at O-2 Hill, Mount Tapochau, Garapan, East Central and North Saipan. At O-2 Hill he killed his first Japanese soldier answering a telephone next to an anti-aircraft gun. Soon after Peterik had a close call describing "my sergeant warned me and I turned around in time to see a Japanese Marine coming at me with a saber, so I blew his head off using my BAR."
In the East Central part of Saipan his company was sent into the jungle, where he engaged and killed a Japanese soldier next to him. Soon after, he stepped on a wooden mine that didn't go off, but got the attention of more Japanese soldiers. He was wounded for a second time by a Jap grenade.
Later on, his platoon was sent on a patrol to recover a TBM Avenger crew that crashed on the island, only to find that the Japanese had murdered them. The Japanese were still in the area and captured all 13 marines in his platoon, including himself. Here they tied the marines to trees and were tortured by the Japanese. Peterik suffered broken ribs and had his teeth knocked out, almost choking on his own blood. The Japanese executed 11 of the marines and left Peterik and his friend Jerry Reed alive because they were NCO's. They were preparing to give them a slow death until his company found him and cleared the area.
Later in East Central Saipan he was wounded for a fourth time by shrapnel from a mortar. During this time he was ordered to carry a wounded marine back from the front lines and did so, despite being wounded himself. For this action he was awarded the Silver Star.
Peterik claims that during mop-up operations, him and his buddy killed 96 Japanese soldiers in one day.
Of the 155 marines in his company that invaded Saipan, only 35 were still present.
Peterik later landed at Tinian, following Saipan, where he made it through unscathed. The battle lasted from July to August 1944.
After coming home, he was discharged on January 7, 1946.
Information gathered from "FIVE FEET TO THE GATES OF HELL: Corporal Mark E. Peterik by Emilie E. Luebke"
JOSEPH J. ELLIOTT
4th Marine Division patch
Corporal Joseph J. Elliott enlisted in the marines in 1943. That same year, he was assigned to Company M, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division.
Later re-assigned to Headquarters Company, with his unit he would serve at Roi Namur, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima.
At Tinian, he was wounded by a concussion blast from enemy artillery on July 24, 1944. Though he stayed with his unit.
Elliott would return to the states and was discharged in late 1945.
Later re-assigned to Headquarters Company, with his unit he would serve at Roi Namur, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima.
At Tinian, he was wounded by a concussion blast from enemy artillery on July 24, 1944. Though he stayed with his unit.
Elliott would return to the states and was discharged in late 1945.
ALFRED VENTRESCA
3rd Marine Division patch
Corporal Alfred Ventresca was born on March 10, 1916 and was from Cecil, Pennsylvania.
Ventresca enlisted in the Marine Corps on April 7, 1942. In early 1943, he was assigned to Battery E, 2nd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division as an artillery lineman.
Ventresca departed overseas on February 15, 1943. He would serve at Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima.
Ventresca set foot at Iwo Jima on February 24, 1945 and on that day he was wounded in action. He was evacuated off the island.
Ventresca survived the war and arrived in the states on May 6, 1945. He was discharged on September 21, 1945.
Ventresca enlisted in the Marine Corps on April 7, 1942. In early 1943, he was assigned to Battery E, 2nd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division as an artillery lineman.
Ventresca departed overseas on February 15, 1943. He would serve at Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima.
Ventresca set foot at Iwo Jima on February 24, 1945 and on that day he was wounded in action. He was evacuated off the island.
Ventresca survived the war and arrived in the states on May 6, 1945. He was discharged on September 21, 1945.
EDWARD T. LEECH
1st Marine Division patch
Sergeant Edward T. Leech was drafted into the marine corps in October 1944. After training, he was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division in January 1945.
He made it in time to start the Battle of Okinawa with his unit in April 1945.
Leech survived the battle and served in China after the war. He was discharged on April 25, 1946.
He made it in time to start the Battle of Okinawa with his unit in April 1945.
Leech survived the battle and served in China after the war. He was discharged on April 25, 1946.
FREDERICK J. STEUHL
Sgt. Frederick J. Steuhl was born on October 14, 1908 and was from Elizaville, New York. He graduated from high school in 1925 and worked as a tractor driver before the war
He was drafted in the Marine Corps on February 5, 1943. Steuhl trained as a amphibious tractor crewman.
He was assigned to Company B, 3rd Armored Amphibian Tractor Battalion.
Steuhl boarded LST-661 and on September 15, 1944, disembarked at Peleliu on D-Day and participated in the battle.
Later boarded LST-728 and disembarked at Okinawa on D-Day, April 1, 1945. Was present for the whole battle.
He survived the war and was discharged from the Marine Corps on November 28, 1945.
He was drafted in the Marine Corps on February 5, 1943. Steuhl trained as a amphibious tractor crewman.
He was assigned to Company B, 3rd Armored Amphibian Tractor Battalion.
Steuhl boarded LST-661 and on September 15, 1944, disembarked at Peleliu on D-Day and participated in the battle.
Later boarded LST-728 and disembarked at Okinawa on D-Day, April 1, 1945. Was present for the whole battle.
He survived the war and was discharged from the Marine Corps on November 28, 1945.
WAYNE C. LEON
PFC Wayne C. Leon was born in 1923 and was from Waynesboro, GA.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1942. After training he was assigned to the Special Weapons Group, 4th Defense Battalion in April 1942.
Leon's unit deployed in March 1942 to Efate and Espiritu Santo in the New Hebrides, It moved in July 1943 to New Zealand and then to Guadalcanal before landing in August 1943 at Vella Lavella in support of the I Marine Amphibious Corps. After becoming the 4th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion on 15 May 1944, the unit returned to Guadalcanal in June but ended the war on Okinawa. arriving there in April 1945.
Leon did not make it to Okinawa however, being transferred just before they would participate in the battle. He was discharged in October 1945.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1942. After training he was assigned to the Special Weapons Group, 4th Defense Battalion in April 1942.
Leon's unit deployed in March 1942 to Efate and Espiritu Santo in the New Hebrides, It moved in July 1943 to New Zealand and then to Guadalcanal before landing in August 1943 at Vella Lavella in support of the I Marine Amphibious Corps. After becoming the 4th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion on 15 May 1944, the unit returned to Guadalcanal in June but ended the war on Okinawa. arriving there in April 1945.
Leon did not make it to Okinawa however, being transferred just before they would participate in the battle. He was discharged in October 1945.
GEORGE H. REINOLD
USS Indianapolis
PFC George Reinold was born 11 November 1920 in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.
PFC Reinold enlisted in the Marines on 29 January 1944 and went aboard the Indianapolis on 1 September 1944 and was a part of the Marine Detachment.
He was aboard when the Indy bombarded Peleliu from 12-29 September, and when the ship supported the landings at Iwo Jima in February 1945. Later, on 1 March 1945, the Indy made their way to Okinawa and bombarded it for 7 days. During that time, the Indy shot down 6 planes. On 31 March, the ship had a near miss of a kamikaze, but the pilot was able to hit the ship, killing 8 men.
After the Indianapolis delivered the parts to the atomic bomb to Tinian Island, the ship was attacked by a Japanese sub. The Indianapolis was hit by two torpedoes and sunk in 12 minutes on 30 July 1945. Of the 1,196 crewman aboard, about 300 went down with the ship.
The remaining crew of around 900 spent a grueling 4 days fighting off sharks, exposure, dehydration, and salt water poisoning. Although Reinold's exact fate is not know, the information below gives a little insight on what happened to him after the sinking.
Sgt. Greenwald, a fellow marine aboard ship, stated this to George Reinold's mother. "At the time of the explosion your son George was sleeping on the top side on the forward pact of the ship with some of his Marine buddies. None of them were hurt in the following explosions and fine so they went to the quarterdeck where most of the Marines were standing by to abandon ship. When the time came they all jumped off and drifted until they had congregated into five groups. I was not in George's group with Sgt. Tracy and Sgt. Cromling. There were very few men in this group which made it hard to survive and there was only one man that did, he drifted into another group and was finally picked up with them, he said the last man he saw alive was Sgt. Cromling so George must have passed away some time before that which must have been the second or third day."
In the end, 317 of the 1,196 crewman aboard the USS Indianapolis survived. Only 9 of the 39 marines on the ship were able to survive.
The sinking of the USS Indianapolis led to the greatest single loss of life at sea in the history of the U.S. Navy.
PFC Reinold enlisted in the Marines on 29 January 1944 and went aboard the Indianapolis on 1 September 1944 and was a part of the Marine Detachment.
He was aboard when the Indy bombarded Peleliu from 12-29 September, and when the ship supported the landings at Iwo Jima in February 1945. Later, on 1 March 1945, the Indy made their way to Okinawa and bombarded it for 7 days. During that time, the Indy shot down 6 planes. On 31 March, the ship had a near miss of a kamikaze, but the pilot was able to hit the ship, killing 8 men.
After the Indianapolis delivered the parts to the atomic bomb to Tinian Island, the ship was attacked by a Japanese sub. The Indianapolis was hit by two torpedoes and sunk in 12 minutes on 30 July 1945. Of the 1,196 crewman aboard, about 300 went down with the ship.
The remaining crew of around 900 spent a grueling 4 days fighting off sharks, exposure, dehydration, and salt water poisoning. Although Reinold's exact fate is not know, the information below gives a little insight on what happened to him after the sinking.
Sgt. Greenwald, a fellow marine aboard ship, stated this to George Reinold's mother. "At the time of the explosion your son George was sleeping on the top side on the forward pact of the ship with some of his Marine buddies. None of them were hurt in the following explosions and fine so they went to the quarterdeck where most of the Marines were standing by to abandon ship. When the time came they all jumped off and drifted until they had congregated into five groups. I was not in George's group with Sgt. Tracy and Sgt. Cromling. There were very few men in this group which made it hard to survive and there was only one man that did, he drifted into another group and was finally picked up with them, he said the last man he saw alive was Sgt. Cromling so George must have passed away some time before that which must have been the second or third day."
In the end, 317 of the 1,196 crewman aboard the USS Indianapolis survived. Only 9 of the 39 marines on the ship were able to survive.
The sinking of the USS Indianapolis led to the greatest single loss of life at sea in the history of the U.S. Navy.
This photo of the Marine Detachment aboard the USS Indianapolis was taken 29 April 1945. George Reinold is pictured in the top row, 6th from the left.
Photo from Edgar Harrell
George Reinold on the left with his buddies. (From the Indianapolis War Memorial)
Seen below is Reinold's original Purple Heart Medal, which is NOT in my possession. ( Image credit to WittWorldWide.com )
Image credit to WittWorldWide.com
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Image credit to WittWorldWide.com
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Documents below are in my possession....
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Morgan's dog tag was found years later on Guadalcanal where the Raider's trained prior to disbanding.
JACK W. MORGAN
Raider patch
PFC Jack W. Morgan was born on January 7, 1925 and was from Tacoma, Washington.
PFC Morgan enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 21, 1943 in Seattle, Washington when he was 18 years old.
After training, he volunteered for the Marine Raiders and was assigned to 4th Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment in December 1943. While training with the Raider's, the unit was disbanded and all members were assigned to various combat units. Morgan was assigned to Company F, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Provisional Marine Brigade.
On W-Day of the Invasion of Guam, on July 21, 1944, PFC Morgan was present with the assault force, landing at White Beach 1 under heavy fire. PFC Morgan distinguished himself under fire, which he did so until the very end when he was mortally wounded by Japanese forces. He would be awarded the Silver Star Medal (posthumously) for heroism on W-Day of Guam. See citation below...
"The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Jack W. Morgan (MCSN: 864714), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Reinforced, First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. Although seriously wounded by enemy mortar fire while stationed at the farthest advance of his platoon, Private First Class Morgan refused to move to the rear for medical attention and, steadfastly remaining in his strategic position, courageously delivered accurate, extremely effective fire in the face of desperate, suicidal hostile counterattacks until he was mortally wounded. Private First Class Morgan's indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor were an inspiration to the men of his unit and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
PFC Morgan's body was brought home after the war and he was interred in Lakewood, Washington. For his service during WWII he was awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/ 1 Bronze Arrowhead, and the WWII Victory Medal.
PFC Morgan enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 21, 1943 in Seattle, Washington when he was 18 years old.
After training, he volunteered for the Marine Raiders and was assigned to 4th Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment in December 1943. While training with the Raider's, the unit was disbanded and all members were assigned to various combat units. Morgan was assigned to Company F, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Provisional Marine Brigade.
On W-Day of the Invasion of Guam, on July 21, 1944, PFC Morgan was present with the assault force, landing at White Beach 1 under heavy fire. PFC Morgan distinguished himself under fire, which he did so until the very end when he was mortally wounded by Japanese forces. He would be awarded the Silver Star Medal (posthumously) for heroism on W-Day of Guam. See citation below...
"The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Jack W. Morgan (MCSN: 864714), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, Reinforced, First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. Although seriously wounded by enemy mortar fire while stationed at the farthest advance of his platoon, Private First Class Morgan refused to move to the rear for medical attention and, steadfastly remaining in his strategic position, courageously delivered accurate, extremely effective fire in the face of desperate, suicidal hostile counterattacks until he was mortally wounded. Private First Class Morgan's indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor were an inspiration to the men of his unit and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
PFC Morgan's body was brought home after the war and he was interred in Lakewood, Washington. For his service during WWII he was awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal w/ 1 Bronze Arrowhead, and the WWII Victory Medal.
This dog tag came from El Cajon, California. (Note that: First name on the dog tag is misspelled)
ALLAN C. RODGER
Raider patch
PFC Allan C. Rodger was born 24 December 1923 and was from Newark, New Jersey.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 23 January 1942. In June 1942 he was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment as a demolition specialist.
On 7 August 1942, PFC Rodger landed on Tulagi and captured the island on the 9th.
They then moved to Henderson Field on Guadalcanal. From 12-14 September 1942, they participated in what would be known as the Battle of Edson's Ridge.
After Guadalcanal PFC Rodger landed in New Georgia 4 July 1943. On 20 July 1943, Rodger was wounded in action during the Battle of Bairoko, receiving a shrapnel wound in the left ankle and forehead and was evacuated. He returned to duty later that month, but had lost consciousness with dizzy spells several times, so he left the raiders on 29 August to a Naval Hospital.
He returned to the states to a Naval Hospital in Florida and later in a Naval Hospital in San Diego, California.
On 10 March 1945 he was medically discharged.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 23 January 1942. In June 1942 he was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment as a demolition specialist.
On 7 August 1942, PFC Rodger landed on Tulagi and captured the island on the 9th.
They then moved to Henderson Field on Guadalcanal. From 12-14 September 1942, they participated in what would be known as the Battle of Edson's Ridge.
After Guadalcanal PFC Rodger landed in New Georgia 4 July 1943. On 20 July 1943, Rodger was wounded in action during the Battle of Bairoko, receiving a shrapnel wound in the left ankle and forehead and was evacuated. He returned to duty later that month, but had lost consciousness with dizzy spells several times, so he left the raiders on 29 August to a Naval Hospital.
He returned to the states to a Naval Hospital in Florida and later in a Naval Hospital in San Diego, California.
On 10 March 1945 he was medically discharged.
MERLE G. ANDRESEN
3rd Amphibious Corps patch
PFC Merle G. Andresen was born on April 25, 1925 and was from Holstein, Iowa.
At just 18 years of age, he enlisted in the Marine Corps on July 21, 1943. After training, he was assigned to Company A, 3rd Armored Amphibian Battalion, 3rd Amphibious Corps.
During the invasion of Peleliu on September 15, 1944, PFC Andresen and his unit landed with their LTV's on the beach before the first assault wave.
After the initial assault, their LTV's would move into the island in support of the 7th Marines, giving fire support and evacuating casualties back to safety.
3 days after D-Day, on the 18th, PFC Andresen was hit by mortar shrapnel in the right shoulder. He was evacuated from the island for treatment and transferred to a naval hospital.
After getting treated, he went back to his unit, however, he must have had more medical complications, causing him to go back to the naval hospital. He would fortunately miss the Battle of Okinawa. He returned to the states on March 14, 1945.
On August 7, 1945, he was discharged from the Marine Corps.
At just 18 years of age, he enlisted in the Marine Corps on July 21, 1943. After training, he was assigned to Company A, 3rd Armored Amphibian Battalion, 3rd Amphibious Corps.
During the invasion of Peleliu on September 15, 1944, PFC Andresen and his unit landed with their LTV's on the beach before the first assault wave.
After the initial assault, their LTV's would move into the island in support of the 7th Marines, giving fire support and evacuating casualties back to safety.
3 days after D-Day, on the 18th, PFC Andresen was hit by mortar shrapnel in the right shoulder. He was evacuated from the island for treatment and transferred to a naval hospital.
After getting treated, he went back to his unit, however, he must have had more medical complications, causing him to go back to the naval hospital. He would fortunately miss the Battle of Okinawa. He returned to the states on March 14, 1945.
On August 7, 1945, he was discharged from the Marine Corps.
LTV with marines at Peleliu.
Dog tag of William J. Whitcomb with his fingerprint on the reverse. The tag reads as having his tetanus date of 9/41, making it likely this tag was worn during the attack at Pearl Harbor.
WILLIAM J. WHITCOMB
Platoon Sergeant William J. Whitcomb was born on 25 June 1921 in Lonoke, Arkansas.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 11 December 1940. In the summer of 1941, Whitcomb joined the Machine Gun Group of the 3rd Defense Battalion at Pearl Harbor.
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on the early hours of 7 December 1941, Whitcomb recalled going to the top of his barracks with other marines and firing his rifle at enemy planes. Sometime during the attack Whitcomb was wounded in action, being hit in the abdomen. He was one of 4 to be WIA in the 3rd Defense Battalion on the fateful day.
He later went on to serve on Palmyra Island with the Machine Gun Group before being transferred to the 1st Amphibious Truck Company. Later serving on Saipan, Tinian, Kwajalein, Eniwetok, and Guam with that unit.
On 17 December 1946 he was discharged from the Marine Corps.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 11 December 1940. In the summer of 1941, Whitcomb joined the Machine Gun Group of the 3rd Defense Battalion at Pearl Harbor.
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on the early hours of 7 December 1941, Whitcomb recalled going to the top of his barracks with other marines and firing his rifle at enemy planes. Sometime during the attack Whitcomb was wounded in action, being hit in the abdomen. He was one of 4 to be WIA in the 3rd Defense Battalion on the fateful day.
He later went on to serve on Palmyra Island with the Machine Gun Group before being transferred to the 1st Amphibious Truck Company. Later serving on Saipan, Tinian, Kwajalein, Eniwetok, and Guam with that unit.
On 17 December 1946 he was discharged from the Marine Corps.
Platoon Sergeant Whitcomb received a letter of commendation on 27 January 1942 for his actions during the attack at Pearl Harbor.
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LAWRENCE J. ENGELMANN
Paramarine patch
T/Sgt. Lawrence J. Engelmann was born in St. Joseph Missouri on 11 February 1923.
Engelmann enlisted in the Marine Corps on 8 December 1942.
On 2 June 1943, he boarded the USS Rochambeau. 24 June 1943, he arrived in New Caledonia.
He was assigned to Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Parachute Regiment on 26 June 1943.
On 3 December 1943, Engelmann landed at Bougainville attached to the 3rd Marine Division and fought until 11 January 1944 until they were relieved.
Engelmann enlisted in the Marine Corps on 8 December 1942.
On 2 June 1943, he boarded the USS Rochambeau. 24 June 1943, he arrived in New Caledonia.
He was assigned to Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Parachute Regiment on 26 June 1943.
On 3 December 1943, Engelmann landed at Bougainville attached to the 3rd Marine Division and fought until 11 January 1944 until they were relieved.
3rd Amphibious Corps patch
16 January 1944, he was transferred to Headquarters Company, Headquarters and Service Battalion, 1st Marine Amphibious Corps.
On 15 April 1944, it was renamed to the 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps.
He likely participated in the Battle of Guam from 21 July-August 1944, Battle of Peleliu from September-November 1944, and the Battle of Okinawa from April-June 1945.
He was later discharged 4 March 1946.
On 15 April 1944, it was renamed to the 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps.
He likely participated in the Battle of Guam from 21 July-August 1944, Battle of Peleliu from September-November 1944, and the Battle of Okinawa from April-June 1945.
He was later discharged 4 March 1946.
1st Marine Division patch
Engelmann re-enlisted on 5 December 1948.
Headquarters Company, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.
He embarked USS Menard on 14 April 1951 and arrived in Pusan, Korea on 5 May 1951. He fought with the 1st Marines in Korea until 14 December 1951 earning one battle star.
He was later Discharged 11 June 1952.
Headquarters Company, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.
He embarked USS Menard on 14 April 1951 and arrived in Pusan, Korea on 5 May 1951. He fought with the 1st Marines in Korea until 14 December 1951 earning one battle star.
He was later Discharged 11 June 1952.
JAMES G. SMITH, JR.
4th Marine Division patch
PFC James G. Smith was in Company A, 20th Marines, 4th Marine Division and fought at the Battle of Kwajalein, Saipan, and Tinian.
The unit was deactivated 31 August 1944 and he was transferred to the 4th Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division and fought at the Battle of Iwo Jima.
The unit was deactivated 31 August 1944 and he was transferred to the 4th Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division and fought at the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Photo at Iwo Jima
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CHARLES W. MILLER
6th Marine Division patch
PFC Charles W. Miller was born 7 May 1919 in New York.
He enlisted 20 April 1942 in the Marines.
He was assigned to Headquarters Company, 6th Service Battalion, Service Troops, 6th Marine Division. In May 1945, he fought at Okinawa.
He enlisted 20 April 1942 in the Marines.
He was assigned to Headquarters Company, 6th Service Battalion, Service Troops, 6th Marine Division. In May 1945, he fought at Okinawa.
JOHN P. BELCAK
4th Marine Division patch
Sgt. John P. Belcak was born on 5 October 1923 in Pennsylvania.
He enlisted a day after his 19th birthday on 6 October 1942.
After training he was soon assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division. He was a BAR gunner and first participated in the Battle of Kwajalein Atoll in February 1944. Later in June, he fought at the Battle of Saipan where he was wounded for the first time on 9 July 1944.
During mop-up operations on Saipan he had received the Silver Star for his actions on 12 July 1944. A member of his patrol, Floyd Cast Lenling, was killed by a Japanese soldier on that date. Belcak took matters into his own hands during the action.
The citation:
"The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John P. Belcak (MCSN: 479379), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Automatic Rifleman, while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines (Reinforced), FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan, Marianas Group, 12 July 1944. When a member of his patrol was killed by an enemy rifleman located on a rocky ledge during mopping up operations, Private First Class Belcak unhesitatingly scaled the cliff and, despite heavy hostile fire, closed in and single-handedly killed the Japanese soldier. His outstanding fortitude, cool courage and continued aggressiveness despite painful wounds received on three separate occasions, served as an inspiration to his comrades and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service"
In late July 1944, he fought at the Battle of Tinian, where he was wounded for a second time on 31 July 1944.
On 19 February 1945, John Belcak landed at Iwo Jima. After being on the island for almost a month, he was wounded for a third time on 8 March 1945. He was able to survive the bloody sands of Iwo Jima though and went home after being discharged in October 1945.
He enlisted a day after his 19th birthday on 6 October 1942.
After training he was soon assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division. He was a BAR gunner and first participated in the Battle of Kwajalein Atoll in February 1944. Later in June, he fought at the Battle of Saipan where he was wounded for the first time on 9 July 1944.
During mop-up operations on Saipan he had received the Silver Star for his actions on 12 July 1944. A member of his patrol, Floyd Cast Lenling, was killed by a Japanese soldier on that date. Belcak took matters into his own hands during the action.
The citation:
"The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John P. Belcak (MCSN: 479379), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Automatic Rifleman, while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines (Reinforced), FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan, Marianas Group, 12 July 1944. When a member of his patrol was killed by an enemy rifleman located on a rocky ledge during mopping up operations, Private First Class Belcak unhesitatingly scaled the cliff and, despite heavy hostile fire, closed in and single-handedly killed the Japanese soldier. His outstanding fortitude, cool courage and continued aggressiveness despite painful wounds received on three separate occasions, served as an inspiration to his comrades and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service"
In late July 1944, he fought at the Battle of Tinian, where he was wounded for a second time on 31 July 1944.
On 19 February 1945, John Belcak landed at Iwo Jima. After being on the island for almost a month, he was wounded for a third time on 8 March 1945. He was able to survive the bloody sands of Iwo Jima though and went home after being discharged in October 1945.
FOREST W. CULVER
5th Marine Division patch
Cpl Forest W. Culver was born 16 November 1913 in Idaho.
Forest enlisted in the marines in October 1943...
After being stateside for about a year, he went overseas and fought at the Battle of Iwo Jima as a mechanic in Company A, 5th Motor Transport Battalion, 5th Marine Division.
He was later discharged in the year of 1945.
Forest enlisted in the marines in October 1943...
After being stateside for about a year, he went overseas and fought at the Battle of Iwo Jima as a mechanic in Company A, 5th Motor Transport Battalion, 5th Marine Division.
He was later discharged in the year of 1945.
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Circa 1949.
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VICTOR C. FILA
S/SGT Victor C. Fila was born 2 June 1923 and lived in New York.
He enlisted 30 November 1942 in the Marine Corps. After training in January 1943 he was assigned to the Aircraft Engineer Squadron 45. He served as a machinist. Around July, he was assigned to VMSB-231 (Marine Scout Bomber Squadron 231), nicknamed the "Ace of Spades."
In February 1944, his squadron deployed to the Marshall Islands and was stationed on the Majuro Airfield. January 1945, he transferred to the VMF-471 (Marine Fighting Squadron 471), the "Grimreapers." They were a replacement training squadron stationed in El Centro, California.
He was discharged sometime after July 1945.
He enlisted 30 November 1942 in the Marine Corps. After training in January 1943 he was assigned to the Aircraft Engineer Squadron 45. He served as a machinist. Around July, he was assigned to VMSB-231 (Marine Scout Bomber Squadron 231), nicknamed the "Ace of Spades."
In February 1944, his squadron deployed to the Marshall Islands and was stationed on the Majuro Airfield. January 1945, he transferred to the VMF-471 (Marine Fighting Squadron 471), the "Grimreapers." They were a replacement training squadron stationed in El Centro, California.
He was discharged sometime after July 1945.
CHARLES W. NEWELL
3rd Marine Amphibious Corps patch
PFC Charles W. Newell enlisted in the Marine Corps in July 1944.
In early 1945 he was assigned to the 7th 155 MM Howitzer Battalion, 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps.
Newell participated in the Battle of Okinawa and was discharged early in 1946.
In early 1945 he was assigned to the 7th 155 MM Howitzer Battalion, 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps.
Newell participated in the Battle of Okinawa and was discharged early in 1946.
HOMER J. CORNELL
Captain Homer John Cornell was born 15 March 1914 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 13 February 1939 from Indianapolis, Indiana. Cornell was assigned to VMSB-231 and was stationed in Oahu before the war.
In November 1941 he was sent to the U.S. Naval Air Station in Miami, Florida to become a pilot. He later graduated on 20 June 1942.
26 October, Cornell was assigned to VMSB-143. He later arrived at Henderson Field in Guadalcanal early in 1943. Cornell flew the Douglas SBD Dauntless.
Cornell received and Air Medal for his actions in the Solomon Islands. The citation reads:
"For meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Torpedo-Bomb-Squadron in action against Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from February 17 to April 1, May 1 to June 5 and through the months of July and August, 1943. Menaced by constant enemy anti-aircraft fire and frequent fighter plane opposition throughout this period of intense aerial activity, First Lieutenant CORNELL completed each hazardous long-distance assignment with unswerving determination, on one occasion flying at extremely close range to enemy-held Munda Airfield while participating in a vital spotting mission. His aggressive fighting spirit during numerous anti-submarine patrols, mine-laying operations and day and night bombing attacks against hostile airfields and shipping was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
He also received the Distinguished Flying Cross:
(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Homer J. Cornell (MCSN: 0-14740), United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight, in actions against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II.
He later was in Espiritu Santos, New Habrides in August 1943 and Sydney, Australia in September 1943.
In November 1943 he was back on Guadalcanal.
For the rest of the war he was stateside.
Captain Cornell later served during the Korean War. Unfortunately, he was killed when his plane, a F7F-3P Tigercat, stalled out over Korea on 22 February 1952. He was assigned to a mission to photograph an area while with Headquarters Squadron, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 13 February 1939 from Indianapolis, Indiana. Cornell was assigned to VMSB-231 and was stationed in Oahu before the war.
In November 1941 he was sent to the U.S. Naval Air Station in Miami, Florida to become a pilot. He later graduated on 20 June 1942.
26 October, Cornell was assigned to VMSB-143. He later arrived at Henderson Field in Guadalcanal early in 1943. Cornell flew the Douglas SBD Dauntless.
Cornell received and Air Medal for his actions in the Solomon Islands. The citation reads:
"For meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot attached to a Marine Torpedo-Bomb-Squadron in action against Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from February 17 to April 1, May 1 to June 5 and through the months of July and August, 1943. Menaced by constant enemy anti-aircraft fire and frequent fighter plane opposition throughout this period of intense aerial activity, First Lieutenant CORNELL completed each hazardous long-distance assignment with unswerving determination, on one occasion flying at extremely close range to enemy-held Munda Airfield while participating in a vital spotting mission. His aggressive fighting spirit during numerous anti-submarine patrols, mine-laying operations and day and night bombing attacks against hostile airfields and shipping was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
He also received the Distinguished Flying Cross:
(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Homer J. Cornell (MCSN: 0-14740), United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight, in actions against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II.
He later was in Espiritu Santos, New Habrides in August 1943 and Sydney, Australia in September 1943.
In November 1943 he was back on Guadalcanal.
For the rest of the war he was stateside.
Captain Cornell later served during the Korean War. Unfortunately, he was killed when his plane, a F7F-3P Tigercat, stalled out over Korea on 22 February 1952. He was assigned to a mission to photograph an area while with Headquarters Squadron, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.
There is a good chance this was the dog tag Manning wore during the attack. It has his finger-print on the reverse and the tetanus date pre-dates the attack.
LEE MANNING
Staff Sergeant Lee Manning enlisted in the Marine Corps on 1 July 1936. Before the war he was in Shanghai, China, with the 4th Marines, from 1937-1938. He was later in the Philippines in 1939.
Late in 1940, he arrived at the Marine Barracks in Pearl Harbor.
Manning was present during the attack at Pearl Harbor on December 7th. He was stationed at the USMC Base at Kaneohe, Oahu. He was on leave at a beach near there when the attack started. After realizing they were enemy planes he raced back to the base for support.
For the rest of the war he stayed stateside in California.
He was discharged in 1946.
Late in 1940, he arrived at the Marine Barracks in Pearl Harbor.
Manning was present during the attack at Pearl Harbor on December 7th. He was stationed at the USMC Base at Kaneohe, Oahu. He was on leave at a beach near there when the attack started. After realizing they were enemy planes he raced back to the base for support.
For the rest of the war he stayed stateside in California.
He was discharged in 1946.
Dog tag shows evidence of having a silencer on it.
JOHN E. CHALMERS
Corporal John E. Chalmers was born on 2 March 1922 and was from Texas.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 17 September 1942. In mid 1943, Chalmers joined Weapons Company, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division.
On 27 September 1943, he would land on Bougainville with the division and made it through the battle.
Later in July 1944, he landed at Guam from the USS President Jackson. Sometime during the battle he was either wounded or got ill. In October 1944, he left his outfit and went back stateside for the rest of the war.
He was discharged late in 1945.
Sometime during the war, likely at Guam, a Corpsman by the name of Wallace Van Erman acquired his dog tag.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 17 September 1942. In mid 1943, Chalmers joined Weapons Company, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division.
On 27 September 1943, he would land on Bougainville with the division and made it through the battle.
Later in July 1944, he landed at Guam from the USS President Jackson. Sometime during the battle he was either wounded or got ill. In October 1944, he left his outfit and went back stateside for the rest of the war.
He was discharged late in 1945.
Sometime during the war, likely at Guam, a Corpsman by the name of Wallace Van Erman acquired his dog tag.
EUGENE J. DROZD
Sergeant Eugene J. Drozd was born on 28 October 1917 and was from Toledo, Ohio.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 17 May 1943.
It was not until early in 1945, when Drozd set sail for the pacific with the 55th Replacement Draft.
Drozd landed on Okinawa between 10 and 11 June 1945 and was assigned as a replacement in Company C, 22nd Marines, 6th Marine Division. He fought there for 10 days before the island was pronounced secure on the 22nd of June.
After the battle, Drozd was sent to Guam to prepare for the invasion of Japan, but after the surrender in August 1945, it was no longer needed. He was sent to China before his unit was disbanded.
He was discharged on 9 March 1946.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on 17 May 1943.
It was not until early in 1945, when Drozd set sail for the pacific with the 55th Replacement Draft.
Drozd landed on Okinawa between 10 and 11 June 1945 and was assigned as a replacement in Company C, 22nd Marines, 6th Marine Division. He fought there for 10 days before the island was pronounced secure on the 22nd of June.
After the battle, Drozd was sent to Guam to prepare for the invasion of Japan, but after the surrender in August 1945, it was no longer needed. He was sent to China before his unit was disbanded.
He was discharged on 9 March 1946.
This dog tag was made on an army type set and typing during the war, around late 1943. From what I noticed this was only done by members of the 11th Marine Regiment overseas. Note: Set is missing an 'R' in his last name, but this is totally normal.
NELSON E. SHERRARD
1st Marine Division patch
Corporal Nelson E. Sherrard was born on April 15, 1922 and was from New Jersey.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on January 28, 1942. He was assigned to Battery A, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.
The 11th Marines participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal in August with the 1st Marine Division and played an especially significant part in the Battle of the Tenaru and the Battle of Bloody Ridge. The 1st Battalion rejoined the regiment in September on Guadalcanal. On 15 December 1942, the 11th Marines left Guadalcanal for Australia, rested and reorganized, and then reentered combat on New Britain at Cape Gloucester on 26 December 1943. Here the regiment furnished support to the infantry in their capture of the Japanese aerodrome.
Afterwards, Cpl. Sherrard was transferred and went back to the states before being discharged in January 1946.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps on January 28, 1942. He was assigned to Battery A, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.
The 11th Marines participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal in August with the 1st Marine Division and played an especially significant part in the Battle of the Tenaru and the Battle of Bloody Ridge. The 1st Battalion rejoined the regiment in September on Guadalcanal. On 15 December 1942, the 11th Marines left Guadalcanal for Australia, rested and reorganized, and then reentered combat on New Britain at Cape Gloucester on 26 December 1943. Here the regiment furnished support to the infantry in their capture of the Japanese aerodrome.
Afterwards, Cpl. Sherrard was transferred and went back to the states before being discharged in January 1946.
A wartime M-1942 oval dog tag. Tag reads: Black, William F. 314220. A. P.
3rd Marine Division patch
PFC William F. Black enlisted in the US Marines on July 24, 1941.
He was assigned to Company A, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division.
He would serve in combat in the battle of Bougainville and Guam. His unit was later on reserve offshore of Iwo Jima, but were lucky enough to not be sent in.
He served until looks like 1947.
He was assigned to Company A, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division.
He would serve in combat in the battle of Bougainville and Guam. His unit was later on reserve offshore of Iwo Jima, but were lucky enough to not be sent in.
He served until looks like 1947.
DALE B. WRIGHT
4th Marine Division patch
PFC Dale B. Wright was born on June 22, 1925 and was from Carthage, Missouri. Before the war he worked as a farm hand.
PFC Wright was inducted in the Marine Corps on September 1, 1943. He was 18 years old at the time of entry.
After training, he was assigned to Battery D, Second Battalion, 14th Marines, 4th Marine Division. He was a field artillery crewman.
PFC Wright disembarked from LST-122 on January 31, 1944, participating in the Battle of Kwajalein Atoll until February 7.
PFC Wright boarded the USS Leon for his next action, the Battle of Saipan, and disembarked on June 15, 1944. He fought on the island until July 9, 1944.
PFC Wright then boarded LST 340 from Saipan, and then participated in the Battle of Tinian from July 24-August 1, 1944.
Wright's final action would be during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He disembarked from LST-764 on L-Day, February 19, 1945, and fought on the island until March 16, 1945.
He was discharged on November 20, 1945 at the US Naval Base, Mare Island, CA.
PFC Wright was inducted in the Marine Corps on September 1, 1943. He was 18 years old at the time of entry.
After training, he was assigned to Battery D, Second Battalion, 14th Marines, 4th Marine Division. He was a field artillery crewman.
PFC Wright disembarked from LST-122 on January 31, 1944, participating in the Battle of Kwajalein Atoll until February 7.
PFC Wright boarded the USS Leon for his next action, the Battle of Saipan, and disembarked on June 15, 1944. He fought on the island until July 9, 1944.
PFC Wright then boarded LST 340 from Saipan, and then participated in the Battle of Tinian from July 24-August 1, 1944.
Wright's final action would be during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He disembarked from LST-764 on L-Day, February 19, 1945, and fought on the island until March 16, 1945.
He was discharged on November 20, 1945 at the US Naval Base, Mare Island, CA.
Artillery crew of the 4th Marine Division at Iwo Jima.
JOHN POGGIOLI
4th Marine Division patch
PFC John Poggioli was born on July 4, 1924 and was from New Rochelle, NY.
Poggioli enlisted in the Marine Corps on August 28, 1942. After training he was assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division. Poggioli was nicknamed "Blackie" by his fellow marines. He was later transferred to Company B.
After seeing action on Kwajalein, he landed at Saipan. A couple days after the initial invasion, on June 17, 1944, he was wounded in action.
He would later receive the Purple Heart and was discharged on October 1, 1945.
Poggioli enlisted in the Marine Corps on August 28, 1942. After training he was assigned to Company D, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division. Poggioli was nicknamed "Blackie" by his fellow marines. He was later transferred to Company B.
After seeing action on Kwajalein, he landed at Saipan. A couple days after the initial invasion, on June 17, 1944, he was wounded in action.
He would later receive the Purple Heart and was discharged on October 1, 1945.
Hoffman, likely early post war.
JOHN R. HOFFMAN
1st Marine Division patch
Sgt. John R. Hoffman was born on September 15, 1926 and was from Altoona, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Altoona High School in 1944.
He was inducted in the Marine Corps on March 16, 1944. Trained at Camp Pendleton. After training was assigned to the 10th Replacement Draft.
Departed overseas on September 15, 1944.
Assigned as a replacement to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division on October 2, 1944. This was in the middle of the Battle of Peleliu. His MOS was 746, Automatic Rifleman, likely a BAR gunner.
Later participated in the Battle of Okinawa, landed on D-Day, April 1, 1945. Hoffman was wounded in action on May 5, 1945, but appears to have stayed with his unit.
After the war went to China with his unit. He was discharged on May 9, 1946.
Later served in the marines during the Korean War.
He was inducted in the Marine Corps on March 16, 1944. Trained at Camp Pendleton. After training was assigned to the 10th Replacement Draft.
Departed overseas on September 15, 1944.
Assigned as a replacement to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division on October 2, 1944. This was in the middle of the Battle of Peleliu. His MOS was 746, Automatic Rifleman, likely a BAR gunner.
Later participated in the Battle of Okinawa, landed on D-Day, April 1, 1945. Hoffman was wounded in action on May 5, 1945, but appears to have stayed with his unit.
After the war went to China with his unit. He was discharged on May 9, 1946.
Later served in the marines during the Korean War.
COMING SOON
4th Marine Division patch
1st Marine Division patch
Backdrop is actual sand from Iwo Jima.
5th Marine Division patch
Corporal John K. Kelly was born on December 12, 1923 and was from Chicago, Illinois.
Kelly was inducted on April 19, 1943.
In April 1944, he was assigned to Weapons Company, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division.
On January 8, 1945, he boarded the USS Talladega in Hilo, Hawaii.
Disembarked on February 19, at Iwo Jima. Kelly would fight on the island until hostilities ended.
He was discharged in April 1946.
Kelly was inducted on April 19, 1943.
In April 1944, he was assigned to Weapons Company, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division.
On January 8, 1945, he boarded the USS Talladega in Hilo, Hawaii.
Disembarked on February 19, at Iwo Jima. Kelly would fight on the island until hostilities ended.
He was discharged in April 1946.
CREIGHTON JONES
Creighton Jones enlisted in the Marine Corps in October 1943.
Assigned to Sea School in San Diego, where he would train to become a shipboard marine.
After training, he was assigned to the battleship USS Washington in June 1944 and would serve on the ship for the remainder of the war.
Washington's heavy guns supported the taking of Peleliu and Angaur in the Palaus and supported the carrier strikes on Okinawa on 10 October, on northern Luzon and Formosa (Taiwan) from 11 to 14 October, as well as the Visayan air strikes on 21 October. From 5 November 1944 to 17 February 1945, Washington, as a vital unit of the fast carrier striking forces, supported raids on Okinawa, in the Ryukyu Islands; Formosa; Luzon; Camranh Bay and Saigon in French Indochina; Hong Kong; Canton; Hainan Island; Nansei Shoto; and the heart of the enemy homeland, Tokyo itself.
From 19 to 22 February 1945, Washington's heavy rifles hurled 16-inch shells shoreward in support of the landings on Iwo Jima. In preparation for the assault, Washington's main and secondary batteries destroyed gun positions, troop concentrations, and other ground installations. From 23 February to 16 March, the fast battleship supported the unfolding invasion of Iwo Jima, including a carrier raid upon Tokyo on 25 February. On 18–19 March, and again on 29 March, Washington screened the Fleet's carriers as they launched airstrikes against Japanese airfields and other installations on the island of Kyūshū. On 24 March, and again on 19 April, Washington lent her support to the shellings of Japanese positions on the island of Okinawa.
Jones was discharged in late 1946.
Assigned to Sea School in San Diego, where he would train to become a shipboard marine.
After training, he was assigned to the battleship USS Washington in June 1944 and would serve on the ship for the remainder of the war.
Washington's heavy guns supported the taking of Peleliu and Angaur in the Palaus and supported the carrier strikes on Okinawa on 10 October, on northern Luzon and Formosa (Taiwan) from 11 to 14 October, as well as the Visayan air strikes on 21 October. From 5 November 1944 to 17 February 1945, Washington, as a vital unit of the fast carrier striking forces, supported raids on Okinawa, in the Ryukyu Islands; Formosa; Luzon; Camranh Bay and Saigon in French Indochina; Hong Kong; Canton; Hainan Island; Nansei Shoto; and the heart of the enemy homeland, Tokyo itself.
From 19 to 22 February 1945, Washington's heavy rifles hurled 16-inch shells shoreward in support of the landings on Iwo Jima. In preparation for the assault, Washington's main and secondary batteries destroyed gun positions, troop concentrations, and other ground installations. From 23 February to 16 March, the fast battleship supported the unfolding invasion of Iwo Jima, including a carrier raid upon Tokyo on 25 February. On 18–19 March, and again on 29 March, Washington screened the Fleet's carriers as they launched airstrikes against Japanese airfields and other installations on the island of Kyūshū. On 24 March, and again on 19 April, Washington lent her support to the shellings of Japanese positions on the island of Okinawa.
Jones was discharged in late 1946.
PERCY V. FUQUA
2nd Marine Division patch
C
4th Marine Division patch
Corporal Leo A. Penniman was born on June 26, 1919 and was from Salisbury, Massachusetts.
He enlisted the Marine Corps on July 12, 1937.
In early 1945, he was assigned to the 4th Marine Division from the 30th Replacement Draft. From here he was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division.
Penniman would take take part in the Battle of Iwo Jima. On March 4, 1945 he was wounded in action on the island.
He was discharged on May 17, 1947.
He enlisted the Marine Corps on July 12, 1937.
In early 1945, he was assigned to the 4th Marine Division from the 30th Replacement Draft. From here he was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division.
Penniman would take take part in the Battle of Iwo Jima. On March 4, 1945 he was wounded in action on the island.
He was discharged on May 17, 1947.
1st Marine Division patch
