THE LOST
BATTALION
ARCHIVES PAGE
September 28, 1958

Newsletter from the collection of Mr. Thomas Baldwin
To the
Survivors of the Lost Battalion. . .
to greet you at Christmas We spent a Christmas together at Camp Upton in
1917 - another in France in 1918. These events and your courage and
determination on the Lorraine front on the Vesle and your unforgettable
stand at Charlevaux in the heart of the Argonne Forest will
always be treasured memories to me.
The admiration and affection I held for you forty years
ago is as strong and deep-rooted today as it was then. No
officer ever commanded a finer, more dependable unit. I
want you to know that my thoughts are with you today in
the hope that your Christmas will be happy and that the
New Year will hold for all of you the blessings you so
richly deserve.
This greeting was written and signed by Major McMurtry on
November 11, 1958.
SURVIVORS WHO ATTENDED OUR 1958 REUNION
308th Infantry
Major George G. McMurtry
Hqrs. Co.
James Larney, W. J. Baldwin
A Company
Al Nauheim, Herman Anderson
BCompany
Barney Greenfield, Philip Kornelly, Sam Wolf, Steve
Honas, Louis Morris, Bob Manson, George Duffy, Sam
Marcus, James A. Keegan
C Company
Charles Oxman, Louis Baskin, Jack Tucker, Lionel
Bendheim, Phil Cepeglia, Leo Jacoby, John Colasacco,
David Tulchin, Paul Segal, Jacob Held, Bert Morrow
E Company
Joseph Kiernan, George Chiswell, Peter Gudis, Ray
Flynn, Herbert Gross
F Company
Martin Ellbogen, George Parker, Arthur Solomon
G Company
George Englander, Mike Mele, Frank Delgrosso
HCompany
Capt. William J. Cullen
306th Machine Gun Bn.
Julius Sackman, Maurice E. Johnson, John H. Scanlon
307th Infantry, K Company .
Paul Schwartz, James Deahan, Sam Altiera, Isidore
Willinger, Joe Heuer, James Carroll
SEPTEMBER 28,1958 - REUNION LUNCHEON
Forty years ago today we were skirting a small German
cemetery in the Argonne Forest. Here 46 of us are
assembled to honor the memory of those who gave their all
just a few days later in the so-called "Lost
Battalion." That is why each annual reunion luncheon
is opened by Major NcMurty, "asking all to rise and
join him in a silent toast to the Dead of the Lost
Battalion." This solemn moment finds all eyes
centered on our only decoration, the beautiful bouquet
sent each year by -a gracious lady in memory of Marshall
Peabody of the 306th Machine Gun Battalion, one of the
many whose sacrifice has hallowed that hillside below the
Moulin de Charlevaux road.
During the luncheon, stories and happenings are recalled
... about the fellow that risked his life every trip he
made down to the water hole getting water for a fellow
who would have done the Same for him, if he didn't have a
shattered leg . . . about the fellow who comforted his
funk-hole buddy during the days he lay-helpless and
wounded drawing his only solace from the comradeship and
indomitable spirit of the officers and men around him..
Major McMurtry's talk is always eagerly anticipated and
holds the interest of all. His Sincerity, when he says
how much he looks forward to these reunions - to be with
you and me gives him the greatest pleasure. His hope that
as long as there are two of us left alive we will
continue to meet, to perpetuate the memory of the
incident that prompted Major Whittelsey to say to the
Major on the morning of our relief, October. 8, 1918,
"George, as long as you and I live we will never be
in finer company."
The sound-off initiated by Captain Cullen when every man
gives his name, his company and were he's from, - always
brings - out many interesting remarks and suggestions.
Ray Flynn of E Company came all the way from Hollywood,
Cal., and of course was presented with the award for
coming the longest distance. Scanlon, 306th Machine Gun
Bn., from Columbus, Ind. - Maurice Johnson, 306th MGBn,
from Scranton, Pa. - Bob Manson, B Company, from Chicago
- Jirn Larney, Hqrs. Compan , from Watertown, N. Y. - Sam
Marcus, B Company, from Albany, N. Y.
Our luncheon closed with my report on the year's activity
and the reading of many wonderful greetings -that are
found on another page of this, our fifth news sheet. With
our roster growing shorter each year -we, seem to be
growing ever closer together, and how I wish I could look
forward to being your secretary for another 20 years ...
for I couldn't be in finer company.
WALTER J. BALDWIN,
Secretary
THE LOST BATTALION STILL MAKES HISTORY!
On November 10th a fourteen,-foot oak sapling taken-from
the Argonne Forest within six kilos of the stand of the
Lost Battalion was planted on Meuse-Argonne Point,
Governors Island, New York. Flown to, this country as the
gift of the French Republic,-the tree was planted six
feet behind the Meuse-Argonne monument dedicated last
August 11th on the occasion of the First Army's 40th
anniversary. The key participants in the ceremony were
Major General J. F. R. Seitz, Chief of Staff of the First
Army, the Honorable George Fieschi, Consul of France, and
Lieutenant Colonel Rubillon Du Latay, Assistant French
Military Attache. Several hundred - persons witnessed the
planting of the oak tree. The First Army Color Guard,
with American flag, the French Tricolor and the Army
flag, together with the Honor Guard and the First Army
Band joined in the tribute.
Plans are well under way for the United States Department
of the Interior, through its Federal Hall National
Memorial Service, to build the "American Museum of
Immigration" at the foot of the Statue of Liberty in
New York Harbor. There will be a number of exhibits
showing various stages and ages of immigration to this
country and it is the feeling of the Department that no
better way "to illustrate dramatically the loyalty
of most immigrants to the United States" exists than
the planned diorama built around the roster of the men
who were in the Lost Battalion of World War 1. The roster
as it Appears, in the 308th Infantry History has been
submitted to Dr. Thomas M. Pitkin, the Supervising Park
Historian. You will be advised when the, memorial is
completed and your name appears for all time at the base
of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor.
Sent to Major McMurtry on his Birthday, November 6, from
all of us:
May all the joy and good you have poured into the lives
of all of us come back to fill your life with the
blessings and wishes we hope for you on this, your
Birthday.
The World Salutes Us On Our 40th Anniversary
308th INFANTRY POST NO. 308, The American Legion, 28 East
39th Street, New York 16, N. Y.
- "As Commander of. the 308th Infantry Post,
American Legion No 308, I wish to extend to all
members of the Lost Battalion and to Major McMurtry
heartiest congratulations and best wishes on
the 40th Anniversary of the "pocket" at Moulin
de Charlevaux and your heroic stand. All members
of the Post join me in wishing you all Godspeed."
MAURICE GOLDSTEIN, Co. B.
307th INFANTRY POST NO. 307, 77th Division Club House, 28
East 39th Street, New York 16, N. Y. - "Dear Major
McMurtry: As you gather for the 40th Anniversary 'Of the
Meuse-Argonne offensive, we the members of the 307th
Infantry Post, American Legion, salute you and your
gallant Survivors, who are with you today renewing
friendships, the sincerity of which is indescribable.
Will you please express our good wishes to all assembled
as we remember your motto "We stuck together then
and will continue to do so." Our best wishes to you
and your stalwarts."
EWARD E. LEWIS, COMMANDER
77th DIVISION ASSOCIATION, INC., 28 East 39th Street, New
York 16, N. Y. - "We take great
pleasure in honoring the men of the Lost Battalion on the
occasion of the 40th anniversary of their
brave stand at Binarville. The gallantry displayed there
was typical of the spirit that animated the
entire 77th Division which led our forces to victory.
Twenty-five years later a second 77th Division
imbued with the traditions of its predecessors again
displayed the noble qualities of the Lost Battalion
to bring victory once more to our colors." JOSEPH H.
WOOLWICH, PRESIDENT
82nd DIVISION ASSOCIATION NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, 28 East
39th Street, New York 16, N. Y. - "To the survivors
of the Lost Battalion who have met for the 40th time in
commemoration of their famous exploit of World War I and
in memory of their heroic dead, the 82nd Division
veterans of World War I send comradely greetings. The
historical engagement of these soldiers of, the 77th
Division served as an inspiration to the American troops
that broke the Hindenberg line and made the insignia of
the 77th Division, Liberty, famous again in a later
war."
CHARLES HELLER, PRESIDENT
CHARTWELL, WESTERHAM, KENT, ENGLAND: At La Capponcina,
Cap d'Ail, Alpes Maritimes, French Republic - "Sir
Winston Churchill has asked me to thank you for your
letter. He is indeed sorry that he cannot do as you ask,
as he feels it better only to send messages where there
is a close personal connection. Sir Winston asks me to
assure you that this does not in any way diminish from
the pleasure which your compliment has given him."
ANTHONY MONTAGUE BROWNE, PRIVATE SECRETARY
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, NATIONAL PARK
SERVICE, FEDERAL HALL NATIONAL MEMORIAL, 15 Pine Street,
New York 5, N. Y. - "I would like to express my
appreciation of the great assistance which Walter J.
Baldwin and Major McMurtry have given in the planning of
the World War I exhibit for the American Museum of
Immigration, to be installed at the foot of the Statue of
Liberty. This exhibit, which is based on the action of
the Lost Battalion in the Argonne Forest, will be a much
better and more effective unit because of the active
interest you have shown in the project, and the careful
criticism which you have given to the preliminary sketch.
May I extend greetings to all the survivors of the Lost
Battalion meeting in their annual luncheon, and wish them
many more reunions."
THOMAS M. PITKIN, SUPERVISING PARK HISTORIAN
CITY OF NEW YORK, OFFICE OF THE MAYOR, NEW YORK -
"It gives me a great deal of pleasure to extend
sincere greetings to the members of the famed Lost
Battalion on the occasion of, its Fortieth Anniversary.
The courage of the gallant men who fought so heroically
will always be remembered as one of the outstanding
chapters in our nation's military history. New York City
is
proud to salute your organization." ROBERT F.
WAGNER, MAYOR
HEADQUARTERS 77th INFANTRY DIVISION, Office of the
Commanding General 529 West 42nd
Street, New York 36, N. Y. ' "On the occasion of
your 40th anniversary, we of the current 77th Infantry
Division (USAR) salute the members of the Lost Battalion.
The brilliant stand, heroic deeds both told and untold
that occurred during this great stand have etched for
you, you and your comrades an immortal place in the
History of the, United States Army. The high standards
and traditions which were set by the members of the 77th
Infantry Division in World War I were carried on and
fulfilled by the members of the 77th Division in World
War II. I assure you on behalf of all Officers and Men
now assigned to the 77th Infantry, Division (USAR) that
we are all aware of these high standards and traditions,
and will carry them out, if necessary, in the future. It
is a privilege to follow in the footsteps of those who
have written such a bright page in the American History.
The Officers and Men of the 77th Infantry Division (USAR)
join with me in extending the warmest regards to the
Gallant men of the Lost Battalion on this grand occasion.
Please extend my best to Major McMurtry."
J. W. KAINE, MAJOR GENERAL
HEADQUARTERS, FIRST ARMY, GOVERNOR'S ISLAND, NEW YORK -
"It is my pleasure to extend to you the best wishes
of the officers and men of the First U. S. Army on this
40th anniversary of your heroic action in the Argonne
Forest; your gallant stand against great odds climaxed by
your historic counterattack continues to be an
inspiration and a source of pride to us all." B. M.
BRYAN, COMMANDING GENERAL, FIRST ARMY
STATE CAPITOL, Albany, N. Y. "I speak for myself,
the people of New York State and all Americans in sending
a most respectful salute to you survivors of the Lost
Battalion as you gather in New York City for your 21st
annual luncheon. This year marks the 40th anniversary of
the heroic stand that the Lost Battalion, under the brave
and inspired leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Charles W.
Whittelsey and Major George G. McMurtry, made in the
Argonne Forest. Surrounded on all sides by the enemy, the
Lost Battalion defiantly rejected demands that it
surrender and held out from October 2-8, 1918 until it
was relieved by other American troops . . . but only
after some 400 men in the Lost Battalion had perished.
You can all be very proud of the part that you played in
that heroic venture, which will never be forgotten in the
history of -our nation. We New Yorkers are especially
proud that all of you were members of units in our
beloved New York Division, the famed 77th, which made
history in World War I. I know your luncheon and annual
reunion will be a most enjoyable occasion, and I send
cordial greetings and best wishes to all attending."
AVERELL HARRIMAN , GOVERNOR OF NEW YORK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA, GOVERNOR'S OFFICE, SACRAMENTO
"Greetings, Survivors of the Lost Battalion! There
are men whose names are enshrined boldly and indelibly in
the annals of America and in the minds of our people.
There was the suffering of Washington's ragged
Continentals at snowy, windswept Valley Forge; the Fourth
of July when both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams went
into the Great Beyond; the struggles of Andrew Jackson
for the common people; the travels of Abraham Lincoln;
Teddy Roosevelt's charge up San Juan Hill, and the
idealistic hardihood of Woodrow Wilson. Add to these the
heroic exploits of the men -of the famed Lost Battalion
who dug -into that hillside just below the Moulin de
Charlevaux road in France 40 years ago during World War
1, and with young hearts and the strength of their young
manhood and American doggedness and determination met the
test of Freedom's cause. Now I join you in saluting your
gallant dead of the Lost Battalion, and I greet the 119
of you remaining on the occasion of your annual luncheon.
Californians join me in saying God bless each of you!
America cherishes you', symbols of our heroic past and
present and the hopeful augury for our future."
GOODWIN J. KNIGHT, GOVERNOR OF CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, D. C. - "In the
absence of Secretary Dulles, who is
attending the emergency session of the General Assembly
of the United Nations, I wish to thank
you for your letter asking him for a message to be read
at the 21st annual luncheon for Lost Battalion
survivors. I am sure the Secretary would wish me to
extend on his behalf his very best wishes for
a successful reunion."
TEMPLE WANAMAKER, ACTING CHIEF, PUBLIC SERVICE DIVISION
THE WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON, D. C. - "The President
has asked me to thank you for your letter. It was good to
be reminded of the Fortieth Anniversary reunion -of 'the
Lost Battalion Survivors. I am sure that the members of
this heroic outfit will be able to share many great
memories of *this, occasion, and it is a privilege to
send best wishes to each one of them. With special
greetings to your host, Major George G. McMurtry."
FREDERIC FOX, SPECIAL ASSISTANT IN THE WHITE HOUSE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WAR OFFICE, Secretary of the
Army, Washing-ton, D. C. -"Upon returning from an
extended inspection tour of Army installations in the Far
East, I was pleased to find your letter awaiting me. I am
flattered, indeed, that you request a message from me to
be read at the annual reunion of the Lost Battalion
Survivors and also to be published in the group's
Christmas News Sheet. Please be, assured it is a pleasure
for me to comply with your request. In the entire
chronicle of military heroism, no action has won more
acclaim from contemporaries and succeeding generations
than the stand of the Lost Battalion at Binarville, France, from the
second to the eighth of October, 1918. The tenacity of that small band
in the face of immense hazards demonstrated most. nobly that attribute,
courage, - physical and moral - which has typified the
best in soldiers universally throughout the ages. As a
comrade of World War 1, it is a singular honor for me to
send heartiest greetings to the survivors of the heroic
band who are assembled for the celebration. of the
fortieth anniversary of that historic action. All
Americans shall forever be indebted to you for a classic
demonstration of American fortitude."
WILBER M. BRUCKER, SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
PRESIDENCE DU CONSEIL, 57 Rue De Varenne, Paris -
"Monsieur, votre lettre -a retenu toute I'attention
du General de Gaulle qui a ete sensible a votre demande.
S'i1 ne peut la retenir, car il ne donne actuellement
aucun message sur des sujets particuliers, il s'unira
cependant par la pensee a I'hommage qui sera rendu le, 28
Septembre, a la memoire de vos. glorieux compagnone de
combat du Bataillon Perdu. Veuillez a-greer, Monsieur
1'expression de mes sentiments distingues."
SECRETARIAT PARTICULIER. (Translation: Your letter has
had the attention of General DeGaulle who appreciated
your request. He regrets he cannot comply, because he
does not actually give any message on particular
subjects; he will be united nevertheless by the thought
of homage which will be rendered on September 28, to the
memory of your glorious companions in combat of the Lost
Battalion.
DOWN MEMORY LANE AT CHRISTMAS TIME
Back in the early summer of 1938 it was suggested that an
effort be made to locate all the living Survivors of the
"Lost Battalion" in the hope that enough could
be gathered together for a proposed reunion in the fall
of that year to commemorate the 20th anniversary of our
stand at Charlevaux. With the assistance of several men
of various division units, 125 of the survivors were
located. 51 attended our first reunion on September 25,
1938, held at the 77th Division Clubhouse. The Survivors
led a parade of 2,500 - 77th Division veterans up Fifth
Avenue to the, Mall in Central Park, New York City, where
a Memorial Service was held, commemorating the 20th
anniversary of the Argonne drive and the memory of the
gallant dead of the 77th Division.
At the 1939 reunion luncheon, I was appointed lifetime
Secretary of the Survivors. This and the next six
reunions were held at the Murray Hill Hotel. At the 1943
reunion marking our, 25th anniversary, a silver cigarette
case was presented to Major McMurtry, inscribed, "In
grateful appreciation of his inspirational leadership and
ever unselfish devotion to the "Survivors of the
Lost Battalion". Our 1946 reunion was held at the
Williams Club, also in New York. Since then all our
reunions have been at the Hotel Shelburn.
For a number of years, all received Christmas cards, then
in place of the annual card, the news sheet has been sent
at Christmas time ... the reunion badges . . . the medals
and pins given each year for those traveling the longest
distance to our reunions . . . hundreds of letters have
been answered; condolences sent to the families of those
who have since passed on. When the California Survivors
group was functioning, they were always contacted and
each year badges were sent to be used at their reunion
luncheons.
The lives of all of us have been brightened by these
reunions, the Christmas cards and the news sheets. For
all that these kindnesses have meant to us' we are
grateful for the generosity and unselfish devotion of
Major George G. McMurtry to the "Survivors of the
Lost Battalion."
During these past 20 years, many events of interest have
taken place ...
The dedication of Lost Battalion Hall in Elmhurst,
Queens, New York, on October 5, 1939.
In April 1948, a portrait of Lieut. Col. Charles W.
Whittlesey was unveiled in the dedication of the
Whittlesey Room at the Williams Club in New York City.
The dedication on June 16, 1956 of the new Charles W.
Whittlesey Army Training Center in Pittsfield, Mass.
The C.B.S. television show in April 1956, "You Are
There," showing the Lost Battalion in action.
The dedication in October 1956 of the new hospital wing
of the Veterans Home in Napa, California, in honor of
Col. Nelson M. Holderman.
The bronze plaque placed in October 1957 in the new
hospital wing honoring Col. Holderman, presented through
Irving Klein on behalf of members of K Co., 307th
Infantry.
So, along with all that we as a group can thank the Major
for, I have had the additional honor of serving you these
past 20 years. They have been happy, interesting years,
and I do hope that this 20-year journey down memory lane
with me has been enlightening and worthwhile.
It is with the hope and prayer that we will spend many
more Happy, Holy Christmas Seasons
together that I say . . . May the year ahead hold the
best for all of you!
WALTER J. BALDWIN
A CHRISTMAS GREETING FROM OUR BELOVED CHAPLAIN:
TO THE SURVIVORS OF THE LOST BATTALION - THE BEST WISHES
OF THE SEASON. GOD BLESS YOU ND YOURS.
FATHER JAMES J. HALLIGAN
AHLSTEDT, REUBEN H.-G Co., 308th-R. 1, Cassville, Mo-I am
still living in these Ozarks of Missouri and still in
good health. If any of my old comrades happen this way,
stop in for a chat. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all!
ALTIERA, SAM-K Co., 307th-147-14 84th Road, Briarwood, Jamaica 35, N. Y~
The years are rolling by very fast but I am grateful to the good Lord
for his blessings, and it feels great to be able to say, "Present!" My
heartiest congratulations on the Fortieth Anniversary of the Lost
Battalion, and may it continue forever. A 21-gun salute to a great Commander, Major McMurtry. Forty years
ago we obeyed the command, "Forward, men!", and
now and in the .future we must still follow these orders,
so let's go, men,, and attend the yearly reunions and
make them outstanding occasions. There is no greater
pleasure for- me than to see you every year, and with my
best wishes for the Christmas holidays to the Major and
all the members of the Lost Battalion, I will say so long
until 1959.
ANASTASIA, ANTHONY-~-F Co., 308th-6 George St., Medford,
Mass.-In the news sheet of September 29, 1957, I read
with great interest the news by Stephen M. Honas of B
Company, 308th, of having saved the life of Max Lesnick.
His mission had been completed by attending the reunion.
What amazed me was that the same identical life-saving
episode happened to me. Here is my account. At the time
the artillery was playing on us, two other comrades and
myself were occupying the same fox hole. A shell from a
trench mortar dropped in front of our hole, hitting two
of us. I got it on my left thigh and the other I believe
lost part of his foot. I then felt it was time. to move
from that location as the artillery shells were dropping
all around us. I looked up toward the top of the hill and
decided to go there, thinking it was safer. I stopped
just below the edge of the road. It looked pretty good
for five or ten minutes, but then hell let loose. I
decided I was no better off there than where I originally
was, and' started downhill again but not for very long.
The hunk of shell in my left thigh must have paralyzed my
whole left side. My body dropped into a hole, in a
sitting position. I was content to stay there, but a few
minutes after, one of the shells hit above me. All that
rubble dropped on top of me, burying me in this hole. The
only part of my body that was left exposed was my right
leg from the knee down, sticking up. My helmet covered my
face and breathing was hard. I tried pushing the weight
off my chest but could not budge. By this time, 1 was too
exhausted to do much of anything, and felt that was the
end of the line for me. I kept moving the part of the leg
that was exposed and sticking up, in the hope that
someone would see it' Chances looked very dim. Those
shells were still dropping. I then could see myself going
fast; I couldn't breathe anymore and found myself flying
into space. At that moment I saw a vision of my Mother
appear before me, and at the same time I felt some_ one
pulling me out. He stood me up on my feet, let go of me
and ran. The shells were still coming, hot and heavy, I
then fell to the ground and sat there until the artillery
barrage ceased. Whoever it was -:my sincere thanks to
you, and may the good Lord bless you forever. I do hope
that this little story of lifesaving did not bore you. I
wish you all the best of everything and good health.
ANDERSON, HERMAN G-A Co., 308th-789 West End Avenue, New
York 25, N. Y.-It is always a great pleasure for me to
attend the reunions of the Lost Battalion and renew
memories of our experience in the pocket. To Walter and
to our Major McMurtry I am most grateful for making this
possible. Last June on reaching my 65th birthday I
retired and am now trying to learn how to live in
retirement. My best regards to all the boys and a Merry
Xmas and Happy New Year to all.
BALDWIN, FRED W~E Co., 308th-215 South 19th St.,
LaCrosse, Wis- I had hoped I could get to New York for
the luncheon but things came up that made it impossible.
I sure would have liked to see Flynn again. Of course I'd
have come if I could, to see the Major and Walter as well
as all the other fellows. This Joliet, Ill., letterhead
will have you wondering. I left LaCrosse at 2:04 A.M.
this morning, to attend the showing of the
Gerlach- Barklow 1960 calendar line. I've been with this
company for the last nine months. I guess I'm getting
old, as the trip down here has me pooped out. I used to
be able to sit up all night on a train and feel fine the
next day, but no more. Tomorrow I'll go on to Milwaukee,
as the V.A. has scheduled me for an examination. I've
been under a doctor's care in LaCrosse and so don't
expect much trouble. How is the Major? I'm certainly
going to do all I can to get to the reunion luncheon in
1959 as I am anxious to see him and all others.
BALDWIN, WALTER, J.-Hqrs. Co., 308th-1828 Barnes Avenue,
Bronx 62, N. Y~Retired since April at the age of 65 after
a memorable birthday party and send-off by the Wilson
Sporting Goods Company. I am truly enjoying life,
visiting our children and grandchildren. The details of
the annual luncheon and this news sheet were added
pleasures. The complimentary re-marks in so many of your
letters are far beyond anything I expected. They are a
source of great satisfaction to me and I want to thank
you all for your kindness and cooperation in making this
issue the great one it is . . . 1958 and you have been
kind to me.
BEESON, LEONARD-K Co., 307th-1000 Rice Ave., Lima, Ohio-r
have my daughter married but living in Dayton, and she
gave us our third grand-daughter last May, making three
grandchildren in all. Dayton is only 75 miles South of
Lima and the improved highways make a short trip of it.
My son-in-law is a food broker and represents a fine line
of producers; I usually return home with a generous
supply of their products. My son is married and is living
in Lima, They have no children but are hoping. They have
a nice little place in a fine part of the city and they
both enjoy working with flowers; they have about
everything that blooms. As for myself, I add a few rose
bushes each year and now enjoy a fine selection that
takes up my spare time. I sure had a good workout with
the power mower this Summer as we had a hot, wet season
this year. I sure like to hear about all of the Comrades
and I'll take this opportunity to send my regards to all
the swell buddies of K-307, Jim Larney, Major McMurtry
and Matty Baldwin.
BENDHEIM, LIONEL-C Co., 308th-200 Cabrini Blvd., New York
33, N. Y.-I am most grateful for this opportunity,
through the News Sheet, to extend to each and every one
of my fellow Survivors best wishes for another year of
good health and happiness. I really believe that very
many in our group do not have a full realization of the
time, effort and HEART which Matty Baldwin with the grand
support of Major McMurtry is putting into our
organization to keep it functioning. It's really too bad
that vast distances make it impossible for many more to
attend the annual luncheons tendered us by the Major and
thus get a better understanding of what this organization
means. However, I hope that we may be pleasantly
surprised with a fine response this 40th year. Here's
hoping that at the next Roll Call all 116 will again
answer, "Present."
BLACKBURN, RAYMOND-C Co., 308th-Box 399, Route 6, Tampa
10, Fla~ I was forced to retire from my job last year at
the age of 65. 1 decided I would rather be idle where I
can enjoy the outdoors the year around than be idle
looking at myself indoors in a boarding house in the cold
north, so I moved from Ballston Spa, N. Y., to Florida.
The weather here right now is beautiful. Aside from the
mild winters, I find Florida somewhat less than
stimulating. The reason is what few friends I have
acquired over the years are left behind me in the north.
After all it is your friends and acquaintances that make
life worth living, or at least they help more than a
little. I have a warm feeling of affection and admiration
for my old buddies and even more than that for those with
whom I was most closely associated in C Company. Some of
my best friends have passed on. I send my best wishes and
highest regards to anyone who re-members me.
BROWN, CLIFFORD R.-C Co., 308th-21 North Maple St.,
Ashville, N. Y-As I look back forty years I can-not help
but think of the mighty fine group of boys we had in
Company C, and the supreme sacrifice many of them made.
How time has changed things! I hope I may be at your next
reunion. My family are all well. We are the proud parents
of four boys happily married, and we have ten
grandchildren, a mighty fine lot. I like to read about
and hear from all the boys from my Company.
CARROLL, JIM-K Co., 307th-59 Wilmot Road Scarsdale, N.
Y~Our reunion last September was really a red letter day.
Forty years later than anyone could have believed a
possibility during those days in the pocket. Over the
years all of us I am sure have had our trials and
tribulations, physical, financial, mental and what have
you. Surely we have had occasion to feel really sorry for
ourselves. I speak from experience, yet when giving some
thought to the particular situation I usually think of
those days in October 1918 and conclude that nothing
could be as bad. We have all had forty years to the good
and for that I am grateful. To all the survivors, lots of
good wishes for the coming holiday season and the new
year. May there be many more.
CEPEGLIA, PHILIP-C Co., 308th-4431 Third Avenue, New
York, N. Y. - I look forward to the reunion each year,
knowing the time has come to meet again the fellows I
soldiered with so many years ago. It's always good to
meet men of my own company, my regiment, and Major
McMurtry, whose generosity and affection for us has made
these reunions possible. I've been happily married for 38
years now and have five wonderful grandchildren. I'm
especially proud of my son who has been on the New York
Police Force for three years; I will be equally proud of
my new daughter-in-law, the lovely Anne Marie Clyne, when
she marries my boy in September 1959. A Happy Christmas
to all!
COLASACCO, JOHN G-C Co., 308th-Colasacco's Restaurant.
Route Six, Lake 'Mahopac, N. Y.-I extend best wishes to
all buddies and friends ' a very Merry Christmas and a
Happy, Holy New Year. When you are in the neighborhood
please stop in and say hello!
DEAHAN, JAMES A-K Co., 307th-838 Herkimer Street,
Brooklyn, N. YI am still in the restaurant bar &
grill business, for the past 23 years at the same place,
79 Howard Avenue, corner of Hancock Street, Brooklyn.
This past Sunday I drove up to John Colasacco's place at
Lake Mahopac, N. Y. Had dinner up there. He has a
wonderful place. On October 29th I had dinner with a
buddie at the 77th Division Clubhouse. Spent a very
pleasant evening there. During the summer months I drove
up to the Adirondacks. Visited Lake Lucerne, Lake George,
Schroon Lake; spent a few week ends. I hope this letter
finds you in the best of health as I am at present.
DELGROSSO, FRANK-G Co., 308th-67-40 164 Street, Flushing
65, N. Y.-I thought this year's reunion was better than
ever, and this is to tell Walter and the Major that I
enjoyed it very much. Let me remind them that their work
in keeping the outfit together is greatly appreciated.
DUFFY, GEORGE W-B Co., 308th-2242 Clarendon Road,
Brooklyn, N. Y.-I sure was very glad I went to the
dinner; I certainly enjoyed every minute of it.
Everything was just great. 1 enjoyed meeting all my old
pals and I appreciated the opportunity of being with
them.
ENGLANDER, GEORGE M.-G Co., 308th-43-55 Kissena Blvd.,
Flushing, N. Y.-I have no special news to write about,
but I am taking this opportunity to extend Seasons
Greetings to all members of the Lost Battalion.
FEIN, ARTHUR-K Co, 307th-3973 Berryman Avenue, Los
Angeles 66, Cal.-Wish to greet all my buddies of Company
K, 307th, and all members of the Survivors of the Lost
Battalion, whose friendships I greatly treasured
throughout all these years. To each and every one of you
and your families, my best wishes for good Health, a
great abundance of Happiness and Joyous get-togethers
for many years to come. To comrades who are ill, may the
Lord bless you with a very speedy recovery. I regret very
much that I missed sending a telegram to greet you all at
our last Reunion, which neglect I assure you was
unintentional. I was on tour, vacationing in Minnesota,
and under the circumstances forgot to remember this grand
occasion at that time, but never will forget the warm
friendship of all you boys. It was an extreme pleasure
having Fred Dubbins, a member of my Company K outfit, and
his lovely wife at our home, with their son and
daughter-in-law. We enjoyed their visit very much. I am
still on the job employed at the Los Angeles Terminal
Annex Post office. We are indeed very fortunate in having
Major McMurtry and Sergeant Baldwin. The time and effort
they devote to our reunions I am sure is greatly
appreciated by the entire membership. Mrs. Fein joins me
to convey warmest regards and the best of wishes to each
and every one of you and your families for a most
delightful, happy Holiday. May you all be showered with
every Blessing.
FLOWER, LEO-C Co, 306 MGBn-41 Lake Drive, Box 511, DeBary
Fla.-We moved to Florida August 16th and it was very hot
until late October. It has been cool at night. We have a
very nice house in a small town. Mostly retired people
here. I have been sick off and on, these last two years;
the Doctor told me it would do me good to live here. We
have a lot 100x192, so I try doing a little now and then.
Was sorry I couldn't make it to the reunion, but will try
next year to be there if I can. I have retired and am
feeling lots better now. My best wishes to the Major. I
hope all are in good health.
FLYNN, RAYMOND-E Co., 308th-1545 N. Las Palmas, Hollywood
28, Ca.-The 28th of September will long be remembered by
me as one of the greatest days of my life. For years I
bad looked forward to being "among those
present" at a reunion of the Survivors of the Lost
Battalion, and the thrill of being at the luncheon this
year was even greater than anticipated. Meeting and
talking with men who were in my own company during those
trying days spent in the pocket was really wonderful to
me. I only wish that there had been more men present from
Co. E, 308th. Seeing Major McMurtry, talking with him and
finding him in such apparent good health was an
inspiration to me as I am sure it was to all the men
present. I was especially proud when the Major presented
me with the very beautiful lapel insignia of our own
Liberty Division for having come the greatest distance to
attend the luncheon. California is a long way from New
York, but-God willing-I will be back for more reunions in
the not-too-distant future. I want to congratulate Walter
on the wonderful work he is doing in keeping the
association going the way be does. It is not an easy job;
it entails a lot of sacrifice. We are all indeed
fortunate to have a man like Major McMurtry, with all his
kindness and generosity, keeping us together as a unit.
He can rest assured that all the men of his outfit are
just as proud of him as I know he is of them. The best of
everything to all!
GROSS, HERBERT-E Co., 308th-5,57 Avenue Z, Brooklyn ~2,3,
N. Y-I can't start to explain how happy I was to Major
McMurtry and the rest of the Survivors who attended the
September luncheon, after missing the last two reunions.
I shall never forget my Ten weeks confined at Kingsbridge
Veterans Hospital, hoping to be able to make this past
get-together. I would like to. get in touch with two
comrades I haven't seen for a long time; Sgt. Major
Roesch and Jimmy Brice. I finally got in a line from Pou,
the guy I was with in a funk hole for the duration of the
"pocket." We have something in common. Here's
hoping our next reunion will bring some old faces we
haven't seen. My fondest regards to all our comrades, and
a healthy and happy Holiday Season.
HATCH, BOYD-K Co., 307th-R.F.D. No. 2, Wallsboro, N. Y-1
missed the reunion very much and hope to make it next
year. There is not very much news to add to last year's
letter. My brother and I are still carrying on with Hatch
Bras., Inc. Since the death of our younger brother, we
have more work to do, but we might just as well be busy
as otherwise. I had to take over the job as Treasurer of
the company. Do the paper work at night, and that keeps
me out of trouble. We do not make a lot of money, but we
keep our health and that's something to be thankful for.
HEPWORTH, CLYDE-H Co., 308th-193 Del Monte St., San
Francisco, Cal.-The wife and I are building a country
home on the Sacramento River, where the fishing and
hunting are good. It is known as the Delta Country. We
are located three-quarters of a mile from Isleton, the
heart of the asparagus country, a good place to visit.
HEUER, JOSEPH-K Co., 307th-33 Stratford Terrace Cranford,
N. J-I don't have much to write about this year! Doing
the same thing, have the same number of grandchildren.
Except that the weeks and months go by faster. I am told
that is natural as one gets older. I do however get a
bigger "feeling" out of -our reunions as the
years go by. I take this opportunity of wishing my
comrades a happy holiday season.
HOGUE, FRANK D.-K Co., 307th-Camp Chowenwaw, Green Cove
Springs, Fla.-Veterans Hospital, Lake City, Fla. Just a
few lines to let you know that I am in the hospital. Have
been here since October 3. I have a heart condition and
hardening of the arteries. But I am coming along pretty
well. This is sure a nice place as hospitals go. I am
still living in Green Cove Springs, Fla. I now have 13
grandchildren. My son is still in England; haven't seen
him since 1946. I haven't retired as yet. I'm 66 now;
will be 67 on March 30. I have my own home down here, but
we had a hard winter last year and it froze all of my
orange trees. The weather is fine here now in the
day-time and nice and cool at night. Well, fellows, if
any of you ever come this way drop by and see me. I had a
nice letter from Jim Larney, up Watertown, N. Y., way. So
long, comrades; hope to be at your next reunion.
HOLT, JAMES-D Co., 306 MGBn~710 Catalpa St
Dexter, Mo.-This finds things much different than they
were forty years ago today. Time flies and it does not
seem that long ago. I have moved from my old State of
Arkansas. Thought that it might be better for me to make
a change, and see if there were any difference. Plan to
come up there to the reunion, but as we had planned to
move and with that coming up first, I couldn't arrange to
come this time. Hope to make it some year soon; -as you
know we are not getting any younger. I hope that all of
the fellows will write a note for the paper. It will make
us all remember more of each other than we have in the
past. I hope each and every one of the old gang enjoys a
merry Xmas and a happy New Year. My best wishes to all.
HONAS, STEPHEN M.-B Co., 308th-329 - 15th St, N.E.,
Washington 2, D.C.-Mrs. Honas and I had a very nice
summer. We both work for the Government and have met some
very nice people. During the summer months, our weekends
were spent at one of the nearby Maryland beaches, taking
along some of my wife's co-workers. I happen to do some
pretty good cooking with the charcoal broiler, especially
steaks and hamburgers; I am the chief cook. We took a
trip on the famous Sky Line Drive which is beautiful.
Visited the Caverns. I arrived at the reunion of the Lost
Battalion later than I usually do, and my buddies were
beginning to think I wasn't coming. I was very sorry to
hear that McMahon passed away. I was happy and surprised
to see Duffy, but was disappointed that my buddy Max
Lesnick didn't attend the reunion; I was looking forward
to seeing him again. May you all have a very happy and
prosperous 1959!
JACOBY, LEO J_C Co., 308th-3530 DeKalb Avenue, Bronx 67,
N. Y.-Three score and ten, December 15, 1958! Glad to be
alive and still going strong, and to be in such great
company as one of the Survivors of the Lost Battalion.
Words cannot express the feeling that has and always will
exist in keeping us together with your great effort, Mr.
Walter J. Baldwin, and that youngster Major George G.
McMurtry, who has given us those pills that keep him so
young and spry. Therefore I want to wish you and your
families the Merriest Xmas ever and the Happiest New
Year. God bless you all, from your former bugler.
JOHNSON, MAURICE E.-D Co., 306th MGBn.-1617 Capouse Ave.,
Scranton, Pa.-Greetings to my surviving comrades of The
Lost Battalion! November 11, 1958-Forty years ago this
day, the Armistice ended World War I in Europe. Forty
years ago on the 8th of October, the so-called Lost
Battalion ended its memorable gallant fight at
Charleveaux Ravine in the Argonne Forest. I am 65 years
of age as of November 1958; 1 was 25 then. Forty years is
a long time, but it doesn't seem that long, does it?
Gratitude for those who have sacrificed and risked their
lives to save their country may well be felt and
expressed. Many, too many. of our buddies gave their last
full measure of devotion. Others came back maimed and
handicapped. A question to reflect on at this time has to
do with the best method of preserving the ideals and
freedom guaranteed by the Constitution. Whatever the
method, one will admit that it is not by war alone.
Paradoxically, wars are fought to insure peace so that
these ideals and freedoms can be enjoyed. There are not a
few who believe that America is more in danger of losing
her soul in peace than in the crisis of war. And this
danger is not from without, but from within. Not alone
from Communists-but from those who neither believe nor
practice the spirit and principles written in our
Constitution.
KEEGAN, JAMES A-B Co., 308th-2476 Webb Avenue, New York,
N. Y. Hope that my buddies and their families are all in
the best of health. As for myself, I am feeling pretty
good considering all the operations I have gone through.
I am still behind the bar at the 77th Division Clubhouse
at 2& East 39th Street. I am working nights, six
nights a week. I see a few of the boys once in a while
from the Lost Battalion. I was very glad to see George
Duffy at the last reunion.
KIERNAN, JOSEP11-2nd Bn. Scout, 308th-153 East 29 St.,
New York, N. Y-I am retired for the past 10 years; U.S.
Government with a small pension. I have worked as House
Officer in Radio City Music Hall. I was let out at 65. 1
am drawing Social Security pension. Just had to answer
Walter's fine appeal for a note to go in the News Sheet;
he has done and is still doing a wonderful job. I would
like to wish all the boys, and especially Major McMurtry,
a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year!
KLEIN, IRVING-A Company, 308th-251 Carrillo St., Santa Rosa, Cal - I
regret my inability to be present at the 40th Reunion of the Survivors
of the Lost Battalion. My thoughts were with you men, even in absence.
The meeting with some of the boys, particularly Alfred Nauheim, Herman
Anderson and his brother-in-law Enoch Christianson of the old A Company of the 308th Infantry, compensated
me for the trip. While Mrs. Klein and myself are enjoying
the best of health, it was impossible to make it. As you
know, I am a member of the California Veterans Board, and
as our State is 1,100 miles from the Mexican Border to
the Oregon line, we do attend the regular monthly
meetings, held alternately in Northern and Southern
California. We had the continuation of the California
Vet's $300,000,000 Bond Issue, which carried 3% to one,
so we hope next year if health permits to attend the
Reunion. Mrs. Nelson Holderman extends her greetings to
the boys of K Company, and best wishes to all the
Survivors. I see her every month while attending Board
Meetings at the Veterans' Home at Yountville. With Mrs.
Klein's and my best wishes for a happy and prosperous
happy holiday, to all the boys.
KNABE, BILL-K Co., 307th-2314 North Hoyt Avenue, El
Monte, Cal-Here we are again, another Christmas will be
here before we know it, and of course my usual Holiday
Greetings to Major McMurtry, all the boys, especially
Walter, and your families. May 1959 be a good year for
all of us. It sure is interesting to receive the paper
and read about all the boys and where they are and what
they are doing. I don't see much news of the ones out
here, just a certain few. The only news I can contribute
is that we have had an unusual hot summer out here, but
so good that it cools at night. And soon now, the rains,
and we need it. Regardless of all that, the Giants and
Dodgers pulled a big attendance; seems there are a lot of
baseball fans out here. The Dodgers seemed to like it in
the cellar, maybe it was cooler down there. The best to
all!
LARNEY, JIM-Hqrs. Co., 308th-435 Stone Street, Watertown,
N. Y.-I'm glad I managed to get down for the 40th
anniversary dinner and was able to see again so many of
the old gang still going strong. I think the attendance
was very creditable. Also we were able to boast that we
had representation from California with Ray Flynn on
hand, and Illinois and Indiana with Bob Manson and
Scanlon, and even I, down from what you fellows seem to
think is the frozen tundra of the Arctic Canada, Northern
New York. Then, of course, the Major was in, in mukluks
and by dog-team, from even farther North than I, I guess.
He appeared to be in fine fettle and it's a great,
pleasure, to see him and have a little visit. Bon Sante
to all of you!
LESNICK, MAX-C Co., 308th-1888 Arthur Ave.," Bronx,
N. Y. I'm sorry that I could not attend the last reunion
because I was taken by a stroke and hospitalized. I was
in the hospital for two weeks but fortunately I am
feeling fine again . . . and expect to become a
grandfather soon. Regards to all the boys, wishing them a
very Merry Christmas and a most prosperous New Year!
LIGHTFOOT, ROY,C.-C Co., 308th-15-13 Park Avenue, N.E.,
Salem, Oregon-Dear comrades, I cannot do too much writing
because I have arthritis in my hands and it is very hard
to grip the pencil. In fact, I have arthritis in all of
my joints. Haven't got too much to say. I own my place
where I live, and we had a beautiful summer and fall. I
would like to come to the big dinner and visit with the
boys, but I guess I will just wish you all a Merry
Christmas and a Happy New Year.
MANSON, BOB-B Co., 308th-Chicago, Ill. -I never enjoyed a reunion as
much as I did the 40th Anniversary of the
Lost Battalion. It made me feel so proud to think I was
in it . . . it seemed like old days, talking to Major
McMurtry, to Larney, Cullen, Bendheim, Jacobi, Duffy, Ben
Rosner and all the rest. I shall always feel indebted to
Walter for keeping us all together. Who else would put '
so much untiring effort into contacting us constantly?
May the good Lord spare him for many more years ' with
blessed happiness. My trip back to Chicago was full of.
memories of long ago. I wouldn't trade it for millions.
MELE, MICHAEL-B Co., 308th-247-07 Union Turn-pike,
Bellerose 26, N. Y. I had another wonderful time at the
reunion this year. Always enjoy seeing the boys again and
remembering the other wonderful re-unions that we shared
together. Sorry that my buddy Ben Pagliaro was not there;
hope all is well with him and his Mrs. It's a great
feeling to see how Major McMurtry keeps himself looking
so well. I tip my hat to Walter, too, for being such a
wonderful fellow to have with us. My sincere wishes to
all the: boys for a happy holiday season, and looking
forward
to our next reunion, with the help of God.
MORRIS, LOUIS-B Co., 308th-2200 Walton Avenue, Bronx 53,
N. Y-Forty years have passed us all by since our siege in
the pocket. Many of us have mellowed with the years, yet
the reunion dinners of the past have been an inspiration
to me and will continue to be, as long as I am here. I am
certain I voice the feelings of all the Survivors on the
above, and that we will be able to gather together for
some time to come. I wish all the Survivors good health.
NAUHEIM, AL-A Co., 308th-2 Elm Place, Freeport, L. I., N. Y.-As the
years roll along the Reunion Dinners are an event of ever-increasing
meaning and importance to those of us who are still around. Some years
back I didn't lay too much stress on these gatherings. My attitude has
changed to the extent that it would have to be a much more important
cause to keep me away. We have one married daughter and since I have
three girls (twins at home) my son-in -law has a genuine close niche in
my heart, especially since he also is the proud father of two lovely
children, a boy and a girl. I have been connected with a firm
specializing in Mutual Investment Funds and am continuing in this
activity although I reached retirement age this past July. My best
wishes to everyone for a pleasant holiday season. Good health and happiness
for the coming year!
PAGLIARO, BENJAMIN-G :Co., 308th-446 West 50 Street, New
York, N. Y~I am so sorry that I could not be with my
buddies on the day of our annual reunion, but just that
morning at 5:30 o'clock we had a death in the family-my
sister-in-law. I am feeling all right now, and I send my
regards to all.
POU, ROBERT R-E Co, 308th-204 Trigood, Casper,
Wyoming-Another year has rolled by. I am very sorry I
could not attend the Reunion, but earnestly pray that I
will be physically able to attend in 1959. My health is
much improved this year, and Mrs. Pou and I enjoyed a
visit from Andrew Payne and his wife from Hinsdale,
Montana, this September. It was the first time we had met
in almost 40 years. Walter, I want to thank Major
McMurtry and you for your great interest in the
survivors, and for keeping us together. May God bless you
both. If any survivor passes through Casper, I am
extending to him or to ..them an invitation to stop and
visit with me.
RICE, CHAUNCEY-D Co., 306 MGBn-225 West 25 Street, New
York, N. C~This little note is probably not what you are
going to class as interesting to most of our buddies, but
I thought it quite on a par with the spirit shown by our
own command in the pocket. Borrowed it from the Readers
Digest, and the story is told by Brig. General
"Chesty" Puller of the Marines. His outfit was
surrounded by six Chinese Divisions at Chosin in the
Korean Campaign, and when this was discovered he
remarked, "Well, we've got the enemy on our right
Rank, our left Rank, in front of us and behind us, and by
God they won't get away this time." Does it bring
back memories? It did for me. In closing I want to wish
all a very merry Xmas and a real healthy and happy New
Year . . . we all can use it!
ROESCH, CLARENCE R-Hqrs. Co., 308th-8922 185 Street,
Hollis, N. Y_(It is regrettable that illness has
prevented Clarence, who was Major McMurtry's Battalion
Sgt. Major, from attending our reunions since 1954. So
many ask about him at our gatherings and many of the
letters received ask how he is getting along. Letters
from his former buddies will be greatly appreciated. They
will mean a lot to a fellow confined to his home. , He
has asked me to wish you a really happy Christmas and the
best for the year ahead. WJB)
SACKMAN, JULIUS-D Co., 306 MGBn.-420 East 23 Street, New
York, N. Y. Christmas of 1959 bring many fond
recollections of the past 40 years and the comradeship
which we all loved so dearly during the trying days of
the Great War. Those of us who, with God's blessing, have
survived this period can look back with great
satisfaction upon the cause for which we fought and bled.
This past year has been an especially trying one for me
personally. I have been through a series of illnesses
which, with God's help, ~I was able to survive. I am
feeling well again and at this Yuletide I am reminded of
Major Whittlesey's remark, "We will never find ourselves in better company. Please convey to All my
comrades of the Lost Battalion my fondest hope for a
healthful and a fruitful New Year, with the blessing of
our Good Lord for many more to come.
SADLER, TOM-Batt'y Do, 305 F.A.-30 Alfred St., SO.
Attleboro, Mass.-Mrs. Sadler and I have one son and a
daughter, five grandchildren and two
great-grand-children. I am President and Treasurer of
Sadler Brothers, Inc., in South Attleboro, established in
1863 by my grandfather. I am a member of the Attleboro
Rotary Club, chairman of the Park Commission and a
Director of the First National Bank of Attleboro. Hope
next year I will be able to attend the Lost Battalion
Dinner.
SCANLON, JOHN H-D Co., 306 M;GBn.-1317 Laurel Drive,
Columbus, Ind-It was indeed a pleasure to attend the
reunion this year, our 40th anniversary, and get together
with the old gang. I am now a naturalized
"Hoosier" after ten years in Indiana. Haven't
lost the old Bronx accent, however, and some Hoosiers
still think I am a foreigner. I retired from the New York
City Fire Department in 1943 after 26 years of service,
and .for the past ten years have been with the U.S. Air
Force at Bakaler Air Force Base here in Columbus.
I want to commend Walter for all the work he does in
keeping our Survivors in touch, and to Major McMurtry a
vote of thanks for our annual reunion dinner. To all the
Lost Battalion Survivors I send best wishes for a Merry
Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.
SCHWARTZ, PAUL A.-K Co., 307th-146-25 Reeves Avenue,
Flushing, N. Y. it was a pleasure to be at our reunion
dinner with our buddies and to hear again all their
stories of the "trap." As I mentioned, the
wording in the Paper (For Statue of Liberty project)
should name all the companies that were in the
"trap" not just "units of the 77th
Division." They (the specific companies) represent
The Lost Battalion. My best wishes to all our comrades
for a Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous New
Year.
SEGAL, PAUL-C Co., 308th-327 - 17th Avenue, Paterson, N. J. Once again it was my privilege to be with the boys at
our last reunion. To think that forty years have passed
since the pocket, and here we were sitting with our old
buddies around the table reminiscing our past
experiences. All I can say is that forty years is a long
while to look ahead but a short while to look back. I am
sure that I express the sentiments of each and every one
when I say that we are all grateful to Major McMurtry for
making these reunions possible. It is good to hear the
Major make the usual toast and welcome the boys. It is a
great moment for all when Captain Cullen stands up for
calling off the roll in his usual manner, "Sound
Off." As for Walter, allow me to say that he is the
backbone of the survivors. We are all grateful to him for
keeping us together. May he carry on until the last
survivor. I wish to extend Holiday greetings to all the
survivors of the Lost Battalion and to their families.
SHEPARD, ARTHUR H_G Co., 308th-Box 286, Idyllwild,
Cal~Best wishes to all for a Hip" Holiday Season.
May health and happiness be with you for many years. This
"hermit" has retired to Idyllwild, Cal., a
resort in the San Jacinto Mountains in River-side County
in Southern California. Elevation 5,500 feet. About 100
miles from San Diego or Los Angeles. We have all modern
conveniences including a good car and a 23-foot Silver
Streak, all-aluminum house trailer. When we get in the
mood we pack up the trailer and take off on a trip.
October 10th we returned from a six-week trip north
through California (up the coast), through Oregon, up the
Columbia River Highway through Washington, into Idaho,
down into Nevada and Arizona ... then home. We had a
wonderful trip, beautiful weather all the way. Had plenty
of fish, saw lots of deer, elk and pheasant but didn't
shoot any. I enjoy the wild life but not killing them. We
have a few deer and a bear now and then wandering around
our home. We have electricity, TV, propane gas, a large
fireplace and plenty of wood. We have some snow; snow is
very light and we are able to get in and out with chains,
nearly all winter. The view from my front window is
Tageritz Peak, 7,200 feet, and Mt. San Jacinto, 10,980
feet, below which on the other side is the Coachella
Valley and Palm Springs, one hour's drive. I have
conquered my dreams of October 1918; 1 am 58 years old (I
lied about my age in 1917 when I enlisted in the
California National Guard), and I sincerely hope that the
good Lord sees fit to bless my Comrades and Buddies of
World War I with the same health and good fortune with
which He has blessed me. Since Leo Stromee passed on, we
have not bad our L.B. reunions here; he was the backbone
of our gathering here. I am too far away for a
get-together. Thanks a million to Major McMurtry for the
invitation to the reunion. -luncheon.
SPIEGEL ISIDOR-H Co., 308th-1905 Strauss St., Brooklyn
12, N. Y.-When a man becomes aged, tired and worn out, he
tends to reminisce. I look back at those years and recall
as vividly as ever the time we were lost in the Argonne
Forest. There in an improvised dugout were Private
Miller, a Corporal and myself. Private Miller, in spite
of my warnings, decided to reconnoiter and see what he
could find. Time passed. Miller did not return and I
became apprehensive and started to look for him. I found
him severely wounded and I tried to make him as
comfortable as possible. I searched for water, but was
unsuccessful. Private Miller died in a short while. I saw
wounded men lying around me. I finally found water, but
just then a terrific bombardment started and destruction
was everywhere. I don't know how, but I found cover in
some dugout. In all these years I have often wondered how
the other survivors of the Lost Battalion have fared. I
haven't forgotten. I thank the Good Lord for having
spared my life. I spend my efforts in my community
Synagogue, and for the people in my community. May God
bless you and all my comrades in the coming year.
TUCKER, JACK-C Co., 308th-1155 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn, N.
Y~ Our yearly reunions are a heart-warming occasion which
I always anticipate. It makes me proud and happy to be
associated with Major McMurtry and all my friends of the
Lost Battalion. Let me take this opportunity to wish you
all a most happy and healthy New Year.
WADE, FARLAND F.-G Co., 308th-1207Y2 West 8 St., Erie,
Pa.-Another year has passed and during that time I have
thought of the boys many times. I have often wanted to
attend some of the activities of the outfit but the
distance has been too great. Now that I have retired, as
of last May, maybe I can attend one of the reunions this
coming fall. My health is good for my years, and I would
like to hear from some the boys. Give my regards to all
the boys, also Father Halligan A Merry Christmas and
prosperous New Year to all
WILLINGER, ISADORF-K Co., 307th-314 East 163 Street, New
York 51, N. Y~ It would seem to me that each succeeding
year our reunions add additional satisfaction, due to the
fact that I am well and physically able to attend these
once-a-year gatherings. Because what we went through in
the pocket and survived , being able to attend these
reunions has given me a
deep appreciation of what life really means. It is true
we have been living on borrowed time, as has been said
many times by our different buddies. Nevertheless, there
is more to it than that. Just to be with my buddies, to
talk to them, to shake hands with Major McMurtry, to hear
a story told many times or a new one, to enjoy the good
food served ... that is what I look forward to each year.
Therefore, I hope and trust that all the survivors will
enjoy good health for many years to come and be able to
present at future reunions.
WOLF, SAMUEL-B Co., 308th-161 Belmont St., Englewood, N.
J-1 had a very nice summer. Mrs. Wolf and I took a four
week vacation and went to Europe. We visited six
different countries and about a dozen cities; if it
wasn't for the short time we were there, I would have
tried to see "The Pocket." It was great seeing
the boys at the reunion and seeing them in good
condition. Hope to be with them all again at the next
one, with all in good health.
IN
MEMORIAM
The sympathy of the men of the Lost
Battalion has been extended to the
families of
P. BONAVENTURA - E Company
CHARLES H. CHAVELLE - BCompany
JOHN COLLINS - A Company
.MARTIN McMAHON - B Company
who passed away since our last reunion.
My dear Mrs.
McMurtry:
The death of Major McMurtry on November 22 was a great
shock to all of us.
Though you and Miss Elizabeth have suffered a great loss,
we know you will both find consolation in the fact that
the Major was revered by all who knew him and that his
life was filled with the happiness that comes from giving
generously to others.
While words can do little to mitigate your grief, we are
sure you will gain a measure of strength and comfort from
the knowledge that the name of Major George G. McMurtry
will live in honor in the memory of all of us who share
your loss.
Survivors of the Lost Battalion
Walter J. Baldwin, Secretary