THE LOST
BATTALION
ARCHIVES PAGE
September
29th, 1957
Newsletter from the collection of Mr. Thomas Baldwin.
To the
Survivors of the Lost Battalion to greet you at
Christmas:
Nothing would give me more happiness than to shake the
hand of every one of you Survivors today. The treasured
memories of our past nineteen Reunion Luncheons that have
given me the opportunity of greeting many of you are
Annual events that I look forward to with great
anticipation. Nothing pleases me more than to be with
you, the men of the finest Battalion an officer ever
commanded.
The memory of your fighting stand at Charlevaux will be
with me always - and I want you to know that my thoughts
are with you today with the sincere hope that you will be
blessed with all the joys of a Happy Christmas and a New
Year that will see the realization of your fondest hopes.
GEORGE G. McMURTRY
SURVIVORS WHO ATTENDED OUR 1957 REUNION:
308th Infantry
Major George G. McMurtry
Hqrs. Co.
Walter J. Baldwin
A Company
Al Nauheim, Irving Klein, Herman Anderson
B Company
Barney Greenfield, Louis Morris, Charles Chavelle, Jim
Keegan, Steve Honas, Martin McMahon
C Company
Charles Oxman, Lionel Bendheim, Jacob Held, Max Lesnick,
Phil Cepeglia, John Colasacco, Jack Tucker, Leo Jacoby,
David Tulchin, S. Kosikowski, Louis Baskin, Paul Segal
E Company
Joseph Kiernan, G. Chiswell, Peter Gudis
F Company
Martin Ellbogen, George Parker
G Company
George Englander, Ben Pagliaro, Mike Mele, Mark C.
Hagerman
H Company
Capt. Wm. J. Cullen, Isador Spiegel
306th Machine Gun Bn.
Julius Sackman, Maurice Johnson
307th K Company
Paul Schwartz, James Deahan, Sam Altiera, Boyd
Hatch, Isadore Willinger
To you, Major McMurtry, on behalf of all the Survivors .
. .
"May He whose birth the stars foretold be watching
over you through every hour of every day in everything
you do" is our Christmas wish for you.
If all the incidents that occurred within the vision of
each one of us while we were in the pocket could be
compiled and recorded, it would -read -like a tale one
would expect to find only in fiction. But you and I lived
to see them enacted.
We were all in different locations there the machine
gunners on the flanks with some of the riflemen some of
us at the foot of that hillside . . . some along the top
of it just below the road . . . each position had its own
situations to face, its own problems to solve. All of us
had a job to do. The unwritten tales of sacrifice,
heroism and gallantry under a seemingly never-ending hail
of fire from a determined enemy force that outnumbered
us, are many.
It would be wrong to name any particular individual, but
1, in my location, recall the unselfishness of a little
fellow who made numerous trips day and night down to the
water hole that Was covered by German machine guns in the
valley behind us, For a drink . . . not to satisfy his
thirst . . . but for a wounded man who he knew would do
the same for him, were their positions reversed. (He
wasn't able to say thanks, but the little fellow knew.)
Others went down too; some failed to return. Even that
news didn't stop others from trying.
The men and machine gunners on the flanks withstood
assault after assault, and suffered heavy casualties
protecting you and me. Those gallant men who fought off
the onslaughts from the valley behind us, and the men
along the top of the hill, just below the road, who had
the constant shower of hand grenades thrown from the
cliff across the road, as well as heavy rifle and machine
gunfire, to stave off time and time again . . . .
The admiration we all had for the officers who, as 'they
were advising us to take what little cover we could, when
under an especially heavy barrage, walked along that
hillside checking our positions and encouraging and
assuring us . . . their gallantry instilled in us what it
took to win a fight that made history.
Don t let's forget the sacrifices made by the men of the
balance of our Regiment and the ,307th Infantry whose
ceaseless efforts to reach our position were eventually
successful. This, I am certain, will recall to mind
something-someone-some incident that will be with you
always. it happened forty years ago, but time can never
erase the memory of those who by their supreme sacrifice
have hallowed this ground forever . . . our annual
reunion always opens with a silent toast "To the
Dead of the Lost Battalion." I am proud to be your
secretary.
WALTER J. BALDWIN
OUR 19th ANNUAL REUNION
September 29, 1957-Forty-one survivors of the forty-six
who promised to be with us were seated as our 19th
reunion was called to order at 1 P.M. Nine who seldom
miss a reunion were unable to be with us due to illness,
and five were prevented from attending for business
reasons, being out of town and not able to be in New York
in time. It is significant that two who were too ill to
attend have since passed away . . . Bill Powers of Hqrs.
Co. and Bill Wright of D Co., 306 M.G. Bn.
As always, our only decoration was the beautiful bouquet
sent each year in memory of Lt. Marshall Peabody by Miss
Anita de Goll, for which I sent her the following note of
thanks: "It is always the only decoration at our
Reunion luncheons . . . it is admired by all in
attendance . . . the thought that prompts its presence
each year is the topic of many conversations. So, on
behalf of Major McMurtry and all the survivors, I Want to
convey our thanks to you for the beautiful bouquet you
sent again in memory of Lt. Marshall Peadbody . . . we
loved him too, Miss de Goll."
The first order of business is a solemn one, joining
Major McMurtry in a silent toast "to the dead of the
Lost Battalion." Then the recalling of a hundred and
one incidents, this time an especially interesting one .
. . Steve Honas, B Co., in a conversation with Max
Lesnick of C Co., recalled a particular incident that
brought to light that he had rescued Lesnick from under a
pile of dirt and stone after a heavy shelling.
The Major's talk is one we look forward to each year. We
know so well how sincere he is in telling us of the
happiness and joy that is his in greeting us at our
reunions. Making possible these gatherings these past 19
years is surely evidence of his deep affection for all of
us. He spoke of the great admiration General Alexander
had for men of the Battalion, expressed in a letter
received from the General just before he died. The Major
closed with the hope that as long as there were two of us
alive, there would always be a reunion, and urging as
many as possible to attend our 20th reunion on Sunday,
September 28th, 1958. This will be the 40th anniversary
of our stand at Charlevaux.
Captain Cullen's calling of the roll each year brings out
many items, remarks and suggestions of interest. The
suggestion of name plates being attached to our badges
was well taken. Klein spoke at length of the deep
interest and concern of the officials of the State of
California in the welfare of the veteran, as well as of
his part in the dedication of a plaque by the men of K
Co., 307th Infantry, to be placed in the Veterans Home at
Yountville, California, in honor of Col. Nelson
Holderman.
The reading of congratulatory telegrams and letters of
regret from many unable to attend brought our 19th
reunion to a close.
WALTER J. BALDWIN, Secretary
ALTIERA, SAMUEL A.-K Co., 307 -147-14
84th Road, Briarwood, Jamaica 35, N. Y-Another year has
rolled by and it feels mighty good to be able to say
"Present!" Our yearly reunions are great
occasions, and all comrades should make it a must to he
on band if at all possible. We owe a lot to Major
McMurtry for his great spirit in making these reunions
such memorable events and may the good Lord spare him for
many years to continue in command of the Lost Battalion.
Let us make the 1958 Reunion the biggest ever! Best
wishes to, all ~ for the Christmas holidays, and until we
meet again, so long!
AHISTEDT, RUBEN H.-2nd Bn. Runner, 308th-Cassville,
Missouri-I am a man of leisure these days, as I. have retired and am
living on my railroad retirement, which isn't a whole lot but we can get by
O.K. We moved to Riverside, California, last spring,
stayed there seven months and came back to the town of
Enterprise, Kansas. But we are going to locate in
Missouri. We were just down there and bought us a little
place. It is located in the Ozarlis. Wonderful place to
locate. Plenty of good fishing and hunting. We think
we'll enjoy it a lot. Give my regards to Major McMurtry.
I hope he can enjoy many more luncheons for Lost Battalion
Survivors. If any of the old gang ever happens my way, in
Cassville, drop in; will be glad to see any of the guys.
ANASTASI, ANTHONY-F Co., 308th-6 George
St., Medford, Mass.-Very sorry to have missed the
Reunion, but hope to be present at the next one, God
willing. I received your reminder for the news sheet for
this coming Christmas issue, and just had to write these
few lines and hope that your wish for ton pages this year
will be a reality. One important thing that comes to my
mind is this, how proud we all feel to have such a man as
Major McMurtry as one of us. His generosity through the
years makes the annual Reunions possible, and words alone
cannot express the gratitude we owe him. As for you,
Walter, you are the man behind the gun, shooting to us
all the goings on. I can only say, you are doing a
terrific job. More power to you! For myself, I am in good
health and getting along in years like the rest of the
Survivors a few pains here and there, but all n all, not
much to complain about. 1 am retired and taking life
easy. Been married 35 years and have two married
daughters and two lovely grandchildren. My only son died
in World War II. This past summer, my wife and I spent
two weeks in the State of Maine and one of my stops was
(you guessed it!) yes, Bar Harbor. Well, I just could not
leave that beautiful place without paying my respect to
the Major. He received us most warmly, and we really
enjoyed our visit with him, and the Cadilac Mountain
which lie said we must see before leaving Bar Harbor.
Thank you, Major, it was a pleasure to see you and the
Cadilac Mountain you invited me to see. It was a sight to
behold. Wishing good health and long life and the Seasons
Greetings to all the Survivors!
BALDWIN, WALTER J~Hqrs. Co., 308th-1828
Barnes Ave., Bronx, N. Y.-On, October 12th, the fifth
wedding in the family-the marriage of my daughter
Virginia -leaves but two of our seven children home ...
Tom my youngest son is to be married next May. But don't
think the family is getting smaller, for as of this
writing, Mrs. Baldwin and I are the proud and happy
grandparents of twelve wonderful children. Next March, I
will have to retire from active business in- as much as I
will have reached the age of 65, but I hope to be with
you and serve all of you for many years to come, for-as
the Major so aptly puts it - I couldn't be in finer
company!
BASKIN, LOUIS-C Co., 308th-6720 - 21st
Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.-Hello friends! Have just finished a
delicious Thanksgiving meal with my Mrs., at my
children's home. Looking back over the year, it really
has been very eventful. We started out with a Bar Mitzvah
for our grandson. We have had a new granddaughter added
to the family. Spent a month in Florida last winter, and
I hope to do the same again this year. Finishing the year
with a wedding for another granddaughter! It was swell
seeing all our buddies at the Reunion dinner; God
willing, I will see you all again next year.
BENDHEIM, LIONEL-C Co., 308th-200
Cabrini Blvd., New York, N. Y. Another year has rolled
around and again one of the highlights was our annual
luncheon. As you know the attendance was on the light
side, but next year marks the 40th anniversary of our
little "episode" so let us hope we have a
banner turn out, with our good Major gracing the place of
honor as usual. By the way, Major McMurtry has promised
to put in his appearance, as always, at the reunion
dinner of the 308th on Saturday night, Jan. 25, 1958 . .
. so I hope all Survivors who are members of the 308th
will be 'sure to be there to greet him. May I take this
opportunity to wish all a Happy and Healthy New Year, and
in particular to you, Walter, because the great work you
do keeps our very elite organization a vital one.
BROWN, CLIFFORD R.-C Co., 308th-21 N.
Maple St., Ashville, N. Y. My wife and I live in the
small village of Ashville, six miles west of Jamestown,
N. Y. We have four sons, all of whom are married and have
homes of their own. We are the proud grandparents of four
grandsons and four granddaughters. I work as a building
contractor. I have always been proud of the boys of the
Lost Battalion, to the very last man. I wish it were
possible to see you all again.
CARROLL, JAMES B.-K Co., 307th-759
Wilmot Rd., Scarsdale, N. Y.-Circumstances over which I
had no control caused me to be A.W.O.L. from the 1957
Reunion-a real regret, as it is always a pleasure and a
privilege to meet with our fellow dieters of the days in
the pocket. Surely, to Major McMurtry whose kindness has
made our yearly reunions possible, and to you, Walter,
who devote so much of your time and energy to making our
group survive, the requested few lines are more than due.
Think of it-forty years or as you noted, two score, have
passed under the bridge since we had our original get
together. I would venture to say, had Lloyds of London
sent a representative to our little party they would have
wagered 1000-1 against the possibility of any of 'us
being around at this date. All of us, I am sure, have had
many trials and tribulations over the years-many of which
may have seemed impossible to overcome-yet I wonder
whether any of us were ever in a spot quite as rugged as
those October 2nd to 7th days in 1918. In my book we are
just forty years to the good, and for that alone we
should indeed be grateful. With the approaching holidays,
may I not wish for you and all our comrades in that
wonderful group, "Lost Battalion Survivors,"
the compliments of the season, and every good wish for
continued health and happiness.
CEPEGLIA, PHILIP-C Co., 308th-4431 Third
Ave., New York, N. Y.-It is hard for me to describe just
how lucky I consider myself to have been able to attend
our annual reunions for all these years, and how
fortunate we all are to have Major McMurtry -whose
kindness and generosity seem boundless-as one of us. I
look forward each year to the last Sunday in September to
greet Major McMurtry and all of you. To hear someone say,
"Hello, Zip!" means a lot. May Christmas and
the year ahead be happy for all of you.
CHAVELLE, CHARLES H.-B Co.,
308th-Veterans Home & Hospital, Rocky Hill,
Conn.-(Written in August) I feel better than I have for a
long time. I saw a program on TV Sunday at about 6:30,
about the Lost Battalion. It was on last year too; I saw
it both times. It is nearly time for our reunion, and I
expect to be there if I call, the same as I have been
other years. I will have to get myself in shape, as this
is quite a trip for me. I have enclosed another one of
those little papers that are published about this place.
(Charlie enclosed "Target," an interesting
newspaper written by patients at the Veterans Home.) I
will have to take 10 days when I come down to tile
reunion. I generally come to Stamford a couple of days
ahead, and it isn't such a long trip into New York from
there for me as I can rest up these two days and will be
better set for this trip. I have to laugh at some of the
fellows around here; they call me the Lost Battalion. The
old mail who writes up the short stories for the paper I
have enclosed generally puts two or three lines about me
attending the reunion. That is how they know I was in it,
Well, best of luck and good health to all!
COLASACCO, JOHN G.-C Co., 308th-Mahopac
Log Tavern, Mahopac, New York-The proprietor of
~Colasacco's Mahopac Log Tavern at Lake Mahopac welcomes
all members to come visit me and talk over "old
times."
CULLEN, WILLIAM J.-H Co., 308th-2266
Palmer Avenue, New Rochelle, N. Y.-William J. Cullen, who
commanded Company H, 308th Infantry, on the left flank in
the Lost Battalion position, is now residing in New
Rochelle, N. Y., with his wife Alice and 'two charming
daughters. Captain Cullen continued with the 308th lnf. in the Reserve,
and then was called back in the service in World War II and served in
the Second Service Command with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel of
Infantry, and is now retired w1th that rank. The Captain gets a big kick
out of having everybody at the Reunion dinners "sound off" for the Lost
Battalion.
ENGLANDER, GEORGE-G Co., 308th-43-55
Kissena Blvd., Flushing, L. I.-Sorry I was unable to
attend the last Reunion luncheon of the Lost Battalion,
due to illness. This was the first I had missed in many
years. I am OK again now. Last May I attended the Annual
Reunion Dinner of Company G. 308th Infantry, of which I
was a former member. Needless to say, what a wonderful
time we all had! My wife and I took a cruise last summer
through the Great Lakes, stopping at Cleveland, 0.,
Detroit and Houghton, Mich., and Duluth, Minn. A very
enjoyable and interesting trip. I take this opportunity
to extend my best wishes to the Major and to yourself,
Walter, and to all the gang.
FEIN, ARTHUR-K Co., 307th-3973 Berryman
Ave., Los Angeles 66, Cal.-Greetings to all my Buddies!
May you have a very joyous Holiday season. I left dear
old New York over 15 years ago, and came direct to Los
Angeles. For the past 8 1/2 years I am employed at the
Post office in Los Angeles. It has always been my great
desire to attend our Reunion, but on the several trips I
have made to New York, my vacations came out at the wrong
time. This I regret very much and am still hoping I will
have the opportunity to be among you present at our
yearly reunion. Our Survivors" in California also
used To enjoy a yearly Reunion, but since Col. Leo
Stromee passed on several years ago, we have not had
these yearly functions, he being the one who arranged for
these affairs and would get tile group together here. My
very best wishes to every one of you for good health,
prosperity and many more Happy Reunions.
FLOWER, LEO-C Co.., 306th M.G. Bn-43
Jefferson St., E. Islip, L. I. -I am so sorry I could not
get to the reunion, as I have not missed many. I am still
working out at Upton, L. 1. Went to Florida and liked it
very much, and I will make my home there as soon as 1
can. The cold weather is not for me now as I get older. I
don't have much news. We have two grandsons and one
granddaughter. Hope to retire not too long off. Hope this
finds you in the best of health. Give my regards to the
Major.
HARKLEROAD, LEE C.-C Co., 306th MG
Bn.-Union, Ark. I would like to hear about any of the
fellows that were in the 306th Machine Gun Bn., Company
C. I think about them a lot, and would like to see all of
them. (Lee's note is signed, "As ever, a
buddy." We haven't answered him directly, because
we're hoping some of his former comrades will be sending
letters in for this news sheet and Lee will find news of
them right here. For the others, who didn't get around to
writing any news for publication, why not drop a personal
note to Lee?)
HEUER, JOSEPH P.-K Co., 307th-33
Stratford Terrace, Cranford, N. J.-It seems as though
Cllrist-1-1-las just passed-but it is almost here again.
I have heard it said that as one gets older the years go
by faster. Beginning to believe there is some truth to
that old saying. Just one big change in our family since
last year. My oldest son, Joe, and his family, are now
residents of Ohio. They have bought a new home in a small
town about seven miles south of Dayton. Joe's firm
offered him the position of Mill Controller. Although he
and his family were not anxious to give up their home
ties and friends, it was an opportunity and promotion he
could not afford to turn down. You no doubt recall that
Mrs. Heuer and I visited them at the time of the Lost
Battalion Survivors reunion in September. That's about
the news. Mrs. Heuer and I have been feeling well.
Kindest personal regards and a Merry Christmas to all!
HOGUE, FRANK D.-K Co., 307th-Green Cove
Springs, Fla.-I was glad to get a reminder from you,
Walter. Hope you and your family are just fine. We have
had a bad year. First, I had a stroke in August and then
the wife had a lot of sickness. But thank God, we are
better now. We're having beautiful weather down here. I
have three of my children down here and one in England
and one in New Jersey. I am going to be a Grandpa again
in January; that will be thirteen- not bad! I never hear
from Jim any more; hope he is well. Walter, tell any of
the boys who may happen this way to look me up. Glad to
see any of them.
HOLT, JAMES M.-D Co., 306 MGB-Box 60,
Conway, Arkansas-Yes, forty years has been a long time. I
have never been able to attend a Reunion. This September
I thought that I would be able to go to the September
Dinner and got ready to go, but at the last day was taken
ill. I had to cancel my transportation. My wife and I
live in Conway. We are still active in our American
Legion and Auxiliary programs. We are vitally interested
in the Rehabilitation and the Poppy programs. Mrs. Holt
has served in almost every capacity but lately has been
the Poppy Chairman. On Veterans Day we had the best sale
which had been held for the Fall Time. I am telling you
this to let you know that we are still working for the
Veteran and his family, also his community. I have one
son, a Veteran, Dr. J. D. Holt at Dexter, Missouri. We
are very proud of him. Express my wish for a Merry
Christmas to all my Buddies and my wish for all my
Buddies is a prosperous New Year.
HONAS, STEPHEN M.-B Co., 308th-329 - 15th St., N.E.,
Washington, D.C.-My mission has been completed by attending the Lost Battalion Reunion on
September 29th, for I have found the man whose life I
saved 39 years ago. His name is Max Lesnick, of Bronx, N.
Y. We were surrounded and the artillery was playing on us
for an hour and fifteen minutes. We all got out of our
foxholes and started moving, when I saw this fellow with
his leg sticking out from under a pile of rubble, so I
pulled him out but never stopped long enough to ask him
who he wag, and I didn't make myself known. My vacation
this past summer was a very pleasant one. My sister, her
husband, my wife and I took a long trip to Iowa to visit
our son. We drove back up to -Connecticut for a week's
visit with old friends. Then we drove to Green Harbor,
Mass., where we visited our daughter. From there we went
to Cape Cod, and back home to Washington, D.C. All in
all, we traveled over 3,500 miles and really saw some
beautiful country. I take this opportunity to wish
everyone a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, Happy New
Year.
JACOBY, LEO J.-C Co., 308th-3530 DeKalb Ave., New York,
N. Y. it is gratifying to know that there
are such individuals as Walter J. Baldwin, who so
faithfully reminds us of future and coming events- and
our beloved Major McMurtry with his "We stuck
together then, let's stick together now," who has
with untiring efforts kept all of us Survivors of the
Lost Battalion together all these years. Therefore, I
know of no better time, as we approach our Holiday, to
wish all of you a Merry Xmas and the finest New Year
ever!
JORGENSEN, ARTHUR-F Co., 308th-c/o E. M.
Bevirs, P. 0. Box 22, Layton, N. J.-Yes, it's going on 40
years since we were in uniform, and now we're getting on
in years, to look back so far and try and recall our
"buddies" of long ago. I'm some 75-80 miles
from little old New York-living on a dairy farm though
employed on a toll bridge down the road a mile or so.
It's called Dingman's Bridge, crossing the Delaware River into
Pennsylvania. Haven't been able to get down to New York City much, but
am wondering how my old buddy of the
fox hole days is ... that would be Arthur Solomon. If be
should read this in the news sheet, I would be glad to
hear from him.
KEEGAN, JAMES-B Co., 308th-2476 Webb
Ave., Broax 68, N. Y~ Writing a few lines to let you know
that I am feeling all right, after going through that
ordeal at the Veterans Hospital last year. Thank God I
came through all right and am back working at the Club
again. Taking charge of the Bar at' night in the 77th
Division 0ub House. Hope to see you again at the luncheon
next year.
KLEIN, IRVING-A Co., 308th-251 Carrillo
St., Santa Rosa, Calif. Again it was a privilege to
attend the reunion luncheon at the Shelburne. Since last
year, after my retirement from business, I am devoting
all my time to the help of my fellow comrades. (Irving is
on the California Veterans board.) As I Sat With Herman
Anderson and Alfred Nauheim, my old A Company buddies,
old memories and incidents were related and we continued
it at late hours that evening. Monday, just before our
plane departure, we had a surprise visit from another Co.
A buddy, Enoch Christensen, whom I had last seen before
entering the pocket. American Legion Day, October 6th,
honoring the Survivors of the Lost Battalion, was a real
success. Over 5,000 Veterans and families attended this
event. Past National Commander Warren Atherton delivered
the main address and I had the honor and privilege to
present the plaque of the late Col. Holderman to the
Commandant Stanley F. Dunmirej and the unveiling was done
by the widow, Mrs. Margaret Holderman, and their entire
family were in attendance. I mailed Comrade Knabe of El
Monte a copy of the picture and he gratefully
acknowledged it. If any of the Survivors of K Co. wish
copies of the plaque, please let me know. I wish all my
comrades a healthy and joyous holiday!
KNABE, WILLIAM-K Co., 307th-2314 N. Hoyt
Ave., El Monte, Calif.-Not much news, except~ that I
appreciated so much receiving a letter and picture from
Irving Klein of Santa Rosa, California, of himself and
the plaque in honor of Col. Holderman: I also want to
wish Major McMurtry and all the boys and their families
the very best of holiday cheer!
KORNELLY, PHILIP A~B Co., 308th-52
Douglas Ave., Babylon, L. I- I suppose most of you, like
me, are married and have done our part to complete the
cycle. I had three sons who emulated their Dad by serving
in World War II and the Korean War. One of my sons gave
his life in the Air Force in England in World War II. One
is married, and I have three lovely grandchildren. I have
been associated with the New York Trust Company since
February 1926, however I am retiring from active business
on January 1, 1958. I intend to do quite a bit of fishing
in Florida, and perhaps engage in some form of business
as a hobby. I have been very active in stamp collecting
and have been conducting a philatelic business in a small
way. I may devote more time in this direction. Sincere
Greetings and God Bless You All!
KOZIKOWSKI, STANLEY-C Co.,
308th-5740-63rd Rd., Maspeth, L. I.-(Excerpt from an
August, 1957 issue of The Shipworker, publication of the
New York Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, N. Y.) "Since his
army discharge in 1919, Stan's life has been like so many
others - marriage, two children (a son and a daughter), a
home in Maspeth, L, I, and plenty of hard work. He was
employed here (Navy Yard) in January 1929, and as a
machinist is rated by supervisors and coworkers alike as
one of the best. 'No job is too difficult for Stan, one
supervisor declared. 'The man is extremely cooperative
and never com-plains about any assignment'."
LESNICK, MAX-C Co., 308th-1888 Arthur
Ave., Bronx, N. Y.-Myself and my family are enjoying the
best of health and prosperity. Since our last
correspondence, my daughter has married. Also since my
photograph in the paper, I have received many letters
from friends and also relatives of those who have passed
into the Great Beyond, which I am doing my utmost to
answer. It is my hope that when this missive reaches you
that you, members of the Lost Battalion Survivors and
families, will continue to be bountifully blessed by
Providence, and that the Christmas and New Year holidays
bring you joy and happiness.
LARNEY, JAMES F.-Hqrs. Co., 308th-335
Stone St., Watertown, N. Y.-This was a busy year for us.
I'm sorry I was unable to get to the Reunion in '57. Was
down in Maine, briefly, one weekend. We had cousins in
from coasts, Maine and California, at the River with us
during the summer. Had hoped some comrades of the old
77th would drop in on us on their vacation trip to this
area, or Massena or Canada, but none showed. Would be
pleased to see them, here or at the Islands, any time.
With the Penn-Can, the Northway on the east side of the
State, the expressways at Massena, the bypass around the
City of Ogdensburg, new St. Lawrence River bridges and an
expanded regular program, we are busier than ever before,
and after 45 years with the Empire State in engineering,
I'm enjoying it. I get to Albany once in a while, and our
consulting engineers are located in Boston, Rochester,
Albany and Lexington Avenue in New York City. Once in a
while, I visit them. To the north, we range to the
border, as you know, and east to Lake Champlain and
Vermont. I was shocked and grieved when Bill Powers of
Hq. 308 passed on. We had been close friends since long
before we reached the Binarville Road together. My
sincere wishes for a happy Holiday Season and the best of
New Years to all the lads!
MARTIN, WAYNE W.-A Co., 308th-Box 2802,
Warba, Minn.-Hunting season is over now but I didn't get
any deer. I haven't worked for the last four years as my
health went to pieces on me, but I am feeling O.K. again.
I had two sons in this last War, one served in Korea; he
was in the Navy, and the other in the Army. I sure
enjoyed your news sheet very much, and would like to see
all the survivors again for a good handshake. There are
five survivors in Minnesota, but I haven't seen any of
them so far. I do see 77th Division men quite often. I am
going to try and get to the reunion next year-which will
be forty years since we were together over in France. I
wish all a Merry Xmas and Happy New Year.
MORRIS, LOUIS-B Co., 308th-2200 Walton
Ave. Bronx 53, N. Y~ The reunion dinners of the past have
been an inspiration to me . . . the fact that after so
many years we have the occasion at least once a year to
meet many of those who stood with us through thick and
thin almost forty years ago! This past reunion dinner
will stand out in my memory for this one particular
reason . . . that two of our comrades, one who saved a
buddy's life and the lucky buddy himself, were able to
greet each other; the press fortunately were there and
able, by their talks with us, to contact these two and
bring them together. A long time has passed in our lives.
Memories will never die, and I say in, closing that as
long as I am able, I will always attend these dinners.
MELE, MICHAEL-G Co., 308th-247-07 Union
Turnpike, Bellerose 26, L, I.-I had a swell time at the
last Reunion. Always enjoy seeing the boys again, and
remembering the other wonderful Reunions that we have
had. That's one of the nice things about living in little
old New York; I am able to get to most of the Reunions.
Please send my Sincere Wishes to all the boys for a Happy
Holiday Season.
NEPTUNE, HAROLD B.-H Co., 308th-7861
Ledge Avenue, Sun Valley, Calif.-I had a 320-acre
homestead in Mont., Rosebud County. I proved up on it
after I returned from overseas. Just leased it a few
weeks ago, for oil and gas. Have been down here since the
Fall of 1922. Worked in pictures for several years, in
most of the big horse operas, such as The Gaucho, with
Fairbanks, Army Girl, Gunga Din, Marco Polo, Duel in the
Sun and Gone with the Wind-to mention just a few.
Finally, just drifted out of the motion pictures and into
the bee business. Run about 300 hives for honey and
pollination service. I often wondered about Hollingshead,
as be stayed overnight in the hole with me, after
bringing the message to Major Whittlesey. I don't suppose
he knows who he stayed with, but he had a little write-up
in one of the news-letters, so I find out he is still
around, or at least he was! My best wishes to all!
OXMAN, CHARLES-C Co., 308th-96 W. 162nd
St., New York, N. Y.-There were so many wonderful fellows
in my Company, and I do want to mention Lt. Gordon
Schenck who was so solicitous for the com-fort of the men
during the Argonne advance. His actions in the big pocket
won him the posthumous award, the D.S.C. If Marty Tuite
were still alive, he could tell you how much Lt. Schenck
thought of his Christian Science Testament, which was in
his hand when he was killed. Let's not forget Zip,
Colasacco, Bendheim-I wish I could list them all. But I
am proud of all of them and the fact that I was with all
of you in the Lost Battalion. I wish you all the
blessings of the 39th Christmas after the Armistice!
POU, ROBERT E.-E. Co., 308th-204 Trigood Drive, Casper,
Wyoming-I retired from employment with the Texas Company Producing
Department on November 1st. Time
is now available for me to get out my file of
correspondence and diary of L. B. in order to refreshing
memory and, I hope, to be able to resume correspondence
with several buddies. We are living in our home we built
in 1954, and plan to make this our permanent home if my
health will permit. Our daughter and her family live here
in Casper also. The springs, summers and falls are
wonderful here in the Rocky Mountains, but the winters
are severe, windy, cold and snowy. If we get our business
all cleared up in time, we plan to spend the biggest part
of this winter in Arizona or Southern California.
RICE, CHAUNCEY I.-D Co., 306th MG Bn~225
W. 25th St., New York, N. Y.-Ever since the War, I have
been on 7th Avenue in New York City, in the fur business,
and if any of the bunch have two or three thousand
dollars knocking around, plus an extra sweetheart or two,
send them to me and I will relieve them of the dough, not
the sweethearts, that's sure. Seriously, though, I am
writing to tell you, Walter, that you and the Major
deserve our heartfelt thanks for keeping the crowd so
closely united, and instilling in it the pride that we
all have for the Battalion. Many, many thanks to the
Major and your-self, and a very merry Xmas and loads of
healthy New Years to all.
ROESCH, CLARENCE R.-Hqrs. Co.,
308th-8922 -185th St., Hollis, L. I.~Clarence, who was
2nd Bn. Sergeant Major, never missed a reunion until
illness prevented his attendance, but he does contact us
by phone to inquire about many of the fellows who meant
so much to him. Clarence wants to be remembered to all.
He is confined to his home and would welcome any letters
or cards. He sends his best wishes for a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year.
SACKMAN, JULIUS-D Co., 306th MG Bn.-420
East 23rd St., New York, N. Y.-Needless to say, I was
indeed happy to attend the last Reunion in September. It
was wonderful to see so many of our comrades able to come
from distant parts of the country to join with us in
recalling some of our experiences. Since the Reunion
luncheon, I personally had to undergo minor surgery, but
I am happy to report that I am feeling well again. I was
away from my office nearly four weeks, but am now back in
harness raring to go. It may interest you and some of our
good friends to know that the life insurance industry is
honoring me at a testimonial dinner to be held on
December 9, 1957 in the Sert Room of the Waldorf-Astoria
Hotel because of my thirty-five years of service with the
New York State Insurance Department. I happen to be head
of the Life Bureau, which supervises the operations of
all life insurance companies authorized to do business in
this State This will he a very happy occasion for me.
SCHWARTZ, PAUL A.-K Co., 307th-146-25th Peeves Ave.,
Flushing, L. I.-Another year and again it gives me pleasure Z~ wish all
our comrades Seasons Greetings and best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New
Year. Time marches on and still our experiences together
in the Argonne and the 'pocket' seem like they happened
only yesterday. Especially so when we recall them at our
Reunions - very worthy of a Lost Battalion citation! Hope
to see you all next year.
SPIEGEL, ISIDOR-H Co., 3108th-1905
Strauss St., Brooklyn 12, N. Y.-I appreciate your writing
me, Mr. Baldwin, and keeping me informed about the
Association. I am not physically able to get around and
participate in the gatherings of the Association.
However, I am interested in knowing how everyone is, and
what they are doing. I have kept myself active in,
community affairs and I take part in Red Cross, polio and
Community Fund campaigns. I am an officer in a Synagogue
and I have been chairman of their various drives. I pray
and trust that the Good Lord will see us through another
year and will bestow upon us health and happiness in the
coming year. I wish you and all the others A Merry
Christmas and A Happy New Year!
TUCKER, JACK-C Co., 308th-1155 Ocean
Avenue, Brooklyn, N. Y.-After the War I got married and
have two children and four lovely grandchildren. I'm in
the electrical appliance business. There is one thing I
want to emphasize every time I go to the Reunions of the
Lost Battalion, and that is how good it is to see you,
Walter, and the Major and all the boys. There is
something I'll always remember, Walter, and that is bow
you've always done everything possible to keep the boys
together. I send my best to you and the family, to the
Major and to all the boys, for Christmas and all the days
after.
VOORHEIS, JOHN L.-C Co., 308th-144
Arbordale Ave., Rochester, N. Y.-Hello, fellows of
Company C! Everything is OK in Rochester . . . wish I
could be in New York to say Hello to you in person. A
special hello to Paul Segal for saving my life (from flu)
in the old bay barn. Happy holidays and the best of
everything to you all!
WADE, FARLAND F.-G Co., 308th-12071/'2
W. 8th St., Erie, Pa.-Nothing would give me greater
pleasure than to see the boys from my old outfit, to
attend one of the Reunions, and to shake hands once again
with all of you. I read, with pleasure and interest, the
news items I receive through the 308th and the Lost
Battalion. I am still working. My wife and I enjoy good
health, and with my son and his wife living nearby, and
two granddaughters, aged six and eleven years, it adds to
our pleasure and happiness. Best regards and seasons
greetings to all!
WILLINGER, ISADORE-K Co., 307th-314 E.
163rd St., New York, N. Y.-To me it is always an exciting
experience attending the once-a-year reunions. And I get
an extra kick when I notice how happy Major McMurtry is
when we meet. I cannot conceive of any one member missing
these reunions who is eligible to attend. Speaking for
myself, I always look forward with a great deal of
anticipation to being present at these reunions. The
experiences we shared have created a firm bond, which we
will never forget and which has united us through the
years.
WOLF, SAMUEL-B Co., 308th-161 Belmont
St., Englewcood, N. J.~ It was real invigorating at our
last Reunion to see such a nice bunch of healthy-looking
men, including the Major. Of course we missed some of the
old standbys, such as Manson, Kornelly and a few more;
hope to see them at the next Reunion. I wish to extend
the season's greetings to all the men of the Lost
Battalion, and hope to see them at the next Reunion.
Thanks for your letters and cards with all their
expressions of good wishes. Your response and cooperation
have made this newsletter possible. That it brings, you
the pleasure in reading it which we had in producing it
is our fondest hope. See you at the Shelburne on Sunday,
September 28, 19581 Walter J. Baldwin:
Secretary
IN
MEMORIAM
The sympathy of the men of the Battalion
has been extended to the families of
JOHN NELL G Company
WM. J. POWERS Hqrs. Company
WM. J. WRIGHT - D Co., 306 M.G.Bn.
I.. OSTROW - H Company
who passed away since our last reunion.
Sent to Major
McMurtry on his Birthday, Nov. 6, from all of us:
The lives of all of us, Major, have been made happier and
richer through your kindness and generosity these many
years. You inspired, by your gallantry and leadership in
battle, the spirit that made you proud of all of us.
That it will be my privilege as Secretary of the
Survivors of the Lost Battalion to greet you and ask
God's blessings for you on your birthday for many years
to come is my sincere hope and prayer.
WALTER J. BALDWIN
"We owe a lot to Major McMurtry . . . may the good
Lord spare him for many years to continue in command of
the Lost Battalion." Sam Altiera
A CHRISTMAS
GREETING FROM OUR BELOVED CHAPLAIN:
To the Survivors of the Lost Battalion - The Best Wishes
of the Season.God Bless You and Yours.
MONSIGNOR JAMES J. HALLIGAN
If any of you
have mislaid the ~address of some Survivor you would like
to contact, we'll be glad to furnish this information.
Advance
Reminder of our Fortieth Anniversary
40th ANNUAL REUNION
To be held at
THE HOTEL SHELBURNE
37th Street & Lexington Avenue, New York City
On Sunday, September 28th, 1958
Make it 58 in '58
If you change
your address, kindly notify us, so we can keep our roster
up-to-date