Celebrating the Lives of Our
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO
Special
Military Tributes
• Honoring All Who Served • Events of the Day • Historical Facts • General Military Info
2 — The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Did you know?
Remembering our veterans
The Origins of Veterans Day can be traced to the ending of World War I nearly a century ago. Known at the time as “The Great War,” World War I officially ended on June 28, 1919 with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in France. But the fighting had actually ended seven months earlier when an armistice between the Allies and Germany went into effect on November 11, 1918. The following November United States President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11 “Armistice Day” in honor of the cessation of the hostilities, and the day became a federal holiday in 1938. That act was amended in 1954 after veterans service organizations, in recognition of the efforts of soldiers who fought in World War II, asked that the day be renamed “Veterans Day” so it honored all soldiers and not just those who fought in World War I.
T
he men and women who defend the liberties and freedoms of the countries they represent hold a special place in people’s hearts and an eternal spot in their countries’ histories. Any opportunity is a good time to commemorate the bravery and selfless deeds of military personnel, but certain prominent holidays in November make this an especially important time to thank veterans for their service. November 11 is Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada. It’s also known as Armistice Day in other parts of the world. These holidays honor all military veterans who have provided service to their countries, and that each falls on November 11 is no coincidence, as the day commemorates the anniversary of the end of World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. Many places around the world pause and remember fallen veterans on November 11, but a good majority of Veterans Day and Remembrance Day commemorative events focus on past and current veterans who are still alive. There are many ways to honor the military at home and abroad in time for the November festivities. The following are just a handful of ways to show appreciation for military men and women. • When dining out, ask your server if you can pay the tab for a soldier or veteran you see in the restaurant. • Attend a military parade with your family and explain the significance of the day to children in attendance. • Draft letters and send care packages to soldiers currently in service far away from home. • Ask your company if Veterans Day or Remembrance Day can be an observed holiday at your place of business each year to pay homage to servicemen and women. • Visit a military memorial in a city near you. Your town also may have its own memorial. • Petition town officials to erect a memorial if your town does not already have one. Such memorials can be a source of inspiration for your community. • Support a military family in your town who may be missing a loved one stationed elsewhere. Make meals, mow the lawn, help with grocery shopping, or simply provide emotional support. • Volunteer time at a veterans’ hospital. You may be able to read with veterans or engage in other activities. • Get involved with a military support charity that can provide much-needed funds to struggling families or disabled veterans. • Have children speak with veterans in your family, including grandparents, uncles and aunts or even their own parents. It can help them gain perspective on the important roles the military plays. • Ask a veteran to give a commencement speech at a school or to be the guest of honor at a special function. • Drive disabled veterans to doctors’ appointments or to run any errands. • Support a local VFW organization. • Create a scrapbook for a veteran in your life. • Cheer for or thank military personnel each time you see them. • Visit the veterans’ portion of a nearby cemetery and place poppies or other flowers on the graves. • Always keep the military on your mind and never forget those who have served and didn’t return home. Armistice Day, Remembrance Day and Veterans Day are great ways to honor past and current military for their service and sacrifice.
Happy Veterans Day!
Thank you for protecting our freedom.
Swanson Insurance Agency Ed Swanson
NY & PA Licensed Since 1988 393 E. Main Street Bradford, PA 16701 Ph: 814-362-2883
Veterans Day activities coming into focus
Veterans Day is fast approaching, and the number of events honoring the brave men and women who served the country is beginning to be revealed. On Nov. 14, VFW Post 212 in Bradford will host a dinner in honor of local veterans. The event will begin with happy hour at 5 p.m., with a dinner to follow at 6 p.m. Dinner choices include smothered chicken breast or meatloaf dinner with all the trimmings, and dessert. The guest cost is $7; Post 212 veterans eat for free. The speaker for the evening will be Pennsylvania VFW Deputy Chief of Staff Charles “Chuck” Beattie. Beattie spent six years as a U.S. Marine and 36 years in the U.S. Army. He was deployed to Vietnam from September of 1967 through June of 1970, as well as serving various positions in the Army. His last assignment involved casualty and mortuary affairs as NCOIC at Walter Reed Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Hospital. His awards include a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Third Award, Navy Achievement Medal with a V device for valor, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Vietnamese Campaign
Ribbon with Silver Star for five campaigns, Southwest Asia Campaign Ribbon with three Bronze Stars, among others. Beattie served three tours in Vietnam, Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan and other conflicts, and his courses included International Human Rights laws. RSVP to the event is required. Contact 368-3011 to place reservations and dinner choice, or for more information. In addition, Frances Sherman Auxiliary to VFW Post 212 will visit veterans at Bradford area nursing homes starting at 11 a.m. Nov. 11. Meanwhile, St. Marys Catholic Elementary School will hold a special Veterans Day Mass at 8:45 a.m. Nov. 11 at Queen of the World Church. All area veterans are invited to attend Mass with the staff and students on that day. Also, the Allegheny National Forest will host a free fee day on Veterans Day. There will be no charge to use most of the Allegheny’s open camping and day sites, but visitors are instructed to contact the appropriate ranger district to ensure that specific
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A 5K run/walk will be held later this month in Bradford to benefit the Pennsylvania Veterans Foundation. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. for the Nov. 21 run/ walk, which starts at 1 p.m. and begins and ends at VFW Post #212, 94 Barbour St. Food and beverages will follow at the Vet’s Center. Sponsor sheets are available at 94 Barbour St. The Pennsylvania Veterans Foundation is an organization that provides assistance and support to Pennsylvania veterans and their family. Call 814-368-3011 for more information.
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The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015 — 3
‘Green Light a Vet’ could be started locally By AMBER TURBA Era Reporter news@bradfordera.com Recently, a national initiative has arisen, called “Green Light a Vet,” which advocates for veteran support from a community standpoint, encouraging individual homeowners to shine a green light during the month of November in support for America’s veterans. Local resident Melany Case hopes to bring the initiative to the area.
“The initiative was started by Walmart,” Case said. “I saw it on a commercial not long ago, and I went online to research it further. Basically, what you do is replace one regular light on your property with a green light — whether it’s visible through a window or placed out in front of the house — that shines every day in November.” “Green Light a Vet” begins nationally on Nov. 1, and Case is encouraging residents to take part in the program and
show their support for veterans by implementing it on a local level. Case explained that, as a medical employee, she plans to fasten a green light to her nametag, hoping that this will “start the conversation” with those she comes in contact with. Additionally, she said she intends to flood social media with encouragement for “the important initiative.” “My father is a veteran and is struggling to receive services through the VA system,”
Case explained. “So this initiative touches me personally and I believe it will reach people in all regions going through the same thing — the same battle for services deserved to veterans like my dad.” Ultimately, the premise of the Green Light program is to show both uniformed and ununiformed veterans community appreciation and support in a simple way, according to Walmart’s website. “Green Light a Vet” shines a light on the impact transitioning vet-
erans make in and out of uniform in communities across the country. “So many veterans go unnoticed,” Case added. “By shining a green light, which has become a national symbol for veteran support, our vets will be able to see our unending support for who they are and what they do, even when we don’t see them.” For more information, visit http://corporate.walmart.com/ photos/greenlight-a-vet.
Ways to celebrate Veterans Day
photo by Monkey Business - Fotolia.com Veterans have plenty of opportunities to start buinesses. In fact, of the 24 million veterans in the U.S., nearly one in 10 is a small business owner and veterans as a whole are 45 percent more likely than those with no military experience to be selfemployed
Initiatives helping veterans apply skills, experience (StatePoint) — Of the 24 million veterans in the U.S., nearly one in 10 is a small business owner and veterans as a whole are 45 percent more likely than those with no military experience to be self-employed, according to U.S. Census Bureau Data. Experts say that these figures should come as no surprise. “When veterans reenter civilian life, they carry with them the discipline, hard work and strategic thinking acquired and developed during military service. They take pride in these skills and strive to use them during their next phase of life,” says Tim Davis, a veteran and president of The UPS Store, which offers a number of initiatives designed to promote veteran entrepreneurship. “Veterans are extremely likely to be successful entrepreneurs. Sometimes the challenge is finding that opportunity.” Despite the bleak headlines
regarding the variety of problems faced by returning veterans, The UPS Store is a good example of a business taking steps to change the dialogue and offer these entrepreneurial opportunities. For example, their participation in the Veterans Transition Franchise Initiative (VetFran) is helping veterans obtain the resources they need to become their own boss, and the results have been notable. In fact, of the 4,400 UPS Stores, 250 are owned by veterans. Other programs sponsored by various universities and the U.S. Small Business Administration are offering returning veterans training and mentoring, grants, and access to business development opportunities. Davis, who believes military skills easily translate to the business world, encourages other corporations and orga-
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nizations to begin similar measures in their operations. This Veterans’ Day, celebrated November 11, is a good time to learn more. Visit www.theupsstorefranchise.com.
Veterans Day is an annual holiday in the United States when veterans of the armed forces are honored and celebrated. Many people confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day. While both days honor members of the armed forces, there’s a distinction between the two holidays. Memorial Day, which is celebrated in May, is a day designated for remembering servicemen and servicewomen who died while serving. Veterans Day, which is observed in November, honors all military veterans. The role of the brave men and women who serve in the military is an important one, and it’s one that warrants appreciation and celebration. The following are a few easy ways to celebrate veterans and their significant contribution to our country this Veterans Day. Offer your thanks. Serving in the military can feel like a thankless job, as those who have not served might not be aware of the risks men and women in the military take and the sacrifices they must make to protect our country and help the less fortunate across the globe. As a result, something as simple as saying “Thank you” to a current service member or military veteran can go a long way. Veterans know they don’t serve in vain, but it’s still a great idea to let them know how much
you appreciate their efforts and sacrifices. Help families of active military. Many service members are currently stationed and serving overseas, and their families back home may need or just appreciate a helping hand. Invite family members of active military over for dinner, offer to do chores like cutting the grass or shoveling the driveway when it snows, or help around the house if something needs fixing. Even if families of active members serving overseas appear to be getting along great, offer your friendship and let them know you’re there to help should
anything arise. Visit hospitalized veterans. Unfortunately, many veterans are hospitalized after suffering an injury during a tour of duty. These veterans sacrificed their physical well-being to protect our way of life, and many spend extended periods of time in the hospital. Visiting a hospital to get to know a veteran and spend some time with him or her sharing a few laughs and thanking them for their service is a great way to celebrate the holiday and lift a veteran’s spirits at the same time. Recruit friends and family members to visit hospitalized veterans as well. Pay for a veteran’s night out on the town. Like many people, veterans appreciate an escape from the daily grind. Men and women who want to show their appreciation to veterans can treat a veteran to a night out on the town. Have extra tickets to a ballgame or play? Donate them to a local VFW or play. Or if you see a veteran out on the town, offer to pay for his meal. Thank businesses who support veterans. Many businesses show their gratitude to veterans by offering them free services on Veterans Day. When a local business shows its appreciation to veterans, patronize that business and let them know you appreciate their efforts to help veterans.
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4 — The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Area groups go the extra mile for veterans By AMANDA NICHOLS Era Reporter a.nichols@bradfordera.com
The local region is very patriotic, its citizens ever willing to do what they can to support servicemen and women and honor returning veterans. In fact, many area residents are members of groups like the Patriot Guard Riders and Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education (A.B.A.T.E.), which go the extra mile to step up for those who have served the country. Among other involvement in community service, A.B.A.T.E. does fundraising for military organizations like Wounded Warriors and other community service initiatives, while the Patriot Guard primarily serves as an escort at military funerals. Both groups are comprised mainly of veterans and bikers, but anyone can take part. Richard Getchel, who was a senior ride captain for Region 2 of the Patriot Guard Riders of Pennsylvania as of 2014, which covers nine counties in the region, including McKean, Potter, Elk and Cameron, said the local group is about 70 percent veterans and has hundreds of members and there are nearly 300,000 members nationwide. There are 112 members in the God’s Country McKean County Chapter of A.B.A.T.E, with close to 6,000 nationally, according to Dan Karrasch, who was a coordinator with A.B.A.T.E. as of 2014. “Quite a few of us in this chapter and the organization as a whole are vets — the American Legion Riders, Patriot Guard,” said Karrasch. “Bikers are a pretty independent bunch and we pretty much aim toward freedom of the road, of choice ... but we also understand the cost of that freedom and who bears that cost. As a veteran myself, it’s hard to explain to someone else. We look out for our own.” Karrasch said he was in the U.S. Navy from 1972 to 1979 and took with him more good memories than bad during his years of service. “The good memories were the people I served with. They were everywhere that I, growing up in the small town of Bradford, would never have come in contact with. And, I got to see a lot of he world,” Karrasch said. “We were com-
The Patriot Guard honors veterans, and primarily serves as an escort at military funerals.
ing out of Vietnam, a lot of people were coming home — not necessarily to a hero’s welcome like they get now, but slowly but surely you see that changing because people recognize what the Vietnam vets did, why they did it and how they did it.” But, in some cases, there have been people not so welcoming to veterans coming home. Getchel said the Patriot Guard is there at a family’s request to attend military funerals when protesters such as the Westboro Baptist Church decide to make an appearance. “We’re there to show the family that there are other people out there that understand what they’re going through,” Getchel said. “We’ve had many older veterans think that we’re in this alone, and we’re there to show them there are other people in this country who care and want to honor the servicemen and women.” Getchel said he is retired military himself, having served 27 years, but he got involved with the Patriot Guard in 2006 when he saw them standing for his cousin, Master Sgt. Thomas Maholic, who was killed by enemy small arms fire in
Afghanistan. “We formed back in 2005 to protect the family of a veteran from protesters, we call them UGs — uninvited guests. Now we’re 300,000 strong,” Getchel said. “We do whatever the family wants. We escort the veteran from the airport when they arrive to the funeral home, to the church and to the cemetery. Sometimes they want the service at the gravesite private, but other times we’ve carried the caskets or held flags — we put the flag between the family and the protesters so the family doesn’t have to see it or we’ll just be there to honor the veteran.” He said American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars members will often accord military honors at a funeral, but in areas where they have little membership the Patriot Guard has filled in. The group has also helped at funerals for law enforcement and first responders. Getchel said they never interact with protesters, but rather leave that up to police at the funeral. “There has never been an incident. They can be really irritating but we let law
Happy Veterans Day Thank you for your service
enforcement handle that. We don’t have any confrontation with them because that’s exactly what they’re looking for,” he explained. “They usually have someone on the side with a camera. And, if they find out the PGR will be there, they usually won’t show.” Getchel said many members are dedicated enough that they use their sick days and vacation days from work to make it to funerals and show their support. “All you have to do to become a member is have a desire to come honor the vet. Just come and show respect,” he said. “There are no membership dues, just go on the website and log in. We have no meetings; we do it all on the Internet. That’s where we notify people of funerals we’ve been invited to, and we never go without an invitation from the family.”
Era photo courtesy of Brian Reid
The Patriot Guard and A.B.A.T.E. share many of the same members, the two men said. “We all support each other’s causes. In our case, our biggest fundraiser is Thunder on the Mountain, a two or three day rally held the third week in August on the other side of Coudersport,” Karrasch said. With the money raised, A.B.A.T.E. has helped with military funeral expenses, the purchase of mobility devices for injured veterans and given monetary donations to places like the L.E.E.K. Hunting and Mountain Preserve in Oswayo, which provides therapeutic outdoor programs for disabled veterans. Back in April, the L.E.E.K. Preserve and American Eagles Motorcycle Club Patriot Guard Riders hosted a motorcycle run to benefit wounded veterans. The Patriot Guard has also
began assisting funeral homes in tracking down descendants of deceased veterans so they can get a proper burial, according to Getchel. “They can’t bury someone without permission,” Getchel explained. “It can take a lot of legwork, but it’s a worthy cause.” A.B.A.T.E. is also involved with other causes, including motorcycle and factory safety, and soon will work to gather toys for disadvantaged children during the holiday season. “If we’re presented with a request or if we see a need we will try and figure out how to fill that. Be that veterans, kids, you name it,” Karrasch said. For more information about the Patriot Guard, visit the websites www.patriotguard. org or www.pgrpa.org. For A.B.A.T.E. visit the website www.abatepa.org.
The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015 — 5
Local company has long-standing connection to military By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER Era Associate Editor marcie@bradfordera.com
“If it weren’t for my Zippo lighter, I wouldn’t be here today.” Many a letter has been sent to Zippo Manufacturing Co. about the life-saving legends of the famed Zippo lighter. Zippo provided some testimonials of the lighter’s impact on those who carried it. An early testimonial to the company tells of a Zippo lighter and a small Bible, carried in the chest pocket of an American soldier, that stopped an enemy bullet. Private I’Dana Klinger was serving in Germany in World War II, and was carrying a Zippo lighter in his pants pocket when he was shot by enemy fire in 1944. The bullet struck the lighter instead of the soldier. Klinger sent the lighter home to his father in Pennsylvania with a note, “Guard this with your life.” According to information from Zippo, early in the Korean War, Capt. C. Roy told a story of luck and an amazing rescue thanks to his Zippo lighter. Shipwrecked off the coast of Korea in 1950, Roy started a signal fire with his Zippo lighter. In a matter of 52 hours, he was found. And the legend of the life-saving Zippo continued. Sgt. Andres Martinez recounted his close call in November 1965 in Vietnam. After surviving a gun fight, Martinez reached into his vest pocket to pull out his Zippo lighter — and found the lighter had a gaping bullet hole in it. Martinez was fine, and his lighter still worked. An unidentified Zippo collector from Garland, Texas, sent his story to Zippo, explaining his life was saved in Vietnam by his lighter in his vest pocket. The man described being in the midst of a gunfight and feeling a powerful hit to the left side of his chest. He did not see blood, so he kept going. When he pulled out his Zippo lighter later on, he realized it had taken a direct hit from an AK-47 round. “I had never carried that lighter in my shirt pocket before that May night, but have carried one there ever since!” More than just a bullet-stopper, the Zippo lighter has been a coveted tool to GIs since World War II. Zippo was in its fledgling years when the U.S. went to war in December of 1941. Brass, chrome and nickel were rationed for the war effort in World War II, and Zippo owner George G. Blaisdell turned to steel to make his famous lighters. However, steel rusted. To prevent the rust, Blaisdell had the lighters coated with thick, black
paint, and then baked the lighters at a high temperature to adhere the paint to the lighter case. The finish turned out slightly rough, and became known as the black crackle finish. During the war years, Zippo’s entire production went to the armed forces. Lighters were shipped to Army Exchanges and Naval Ship Stores where they were enthusiastically purchased. Soldiers often marked their new Zippo lighter with their name, rank, battalion or location. It wasn’t just the soldiers who favored Zippo lighters. Some well-known generals sent thanks to Blaisdell for the lighters he sent them as gifts. According to information from Zippo, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander Allied Expeditionary Force, wrote, “It is the only lighter I’ve got that will light at all times, which makes your gift especially welcome.” And famous U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur wrote, “It is a real work of art which I shall use constantly and always with deep appreciation of your generosity.” In Vietnam, the lighters were near the top of the list of the most popular items sold at military exchange stores, according to information compiled at Zippo. With temperatures in the jungles of Vietnam at more than 100 degrees, the soldiers would lose salt from their bodies with excessive sweating. Many kept an emergency supply of salt in the bottom cavity of the lighter. Leeches were a problem in the swamps, and soldiers would use the lighters to remove the parasites. The GIs often had their lighters engraved, sometimes with their names and names of loved ones, often with sentiments or sketches expressing feelings about war, conflict and thoughts of home. According to the display with Vietnam lighters at the Zippo Museum, “Sometimes referred to as ‘trench art,’ these lighters are a barometer of the times in which they were made.” According to Zippo, some messages referred to the soldier’s hatred for the conditions of the country where he was fighting. One example is a lighter which reads, “If I had a farm in Vietnam and a home in Hell, I’d sell my farm and go home.” Another expressed the soldier’s anger for ending up in the situation he was in — “Fighter by day, lover by night, drunkard by choice, Army by mistake.” Yet another gives a chilling insight into what the soldiers faced daily — “You only live twice, once when you are born and once when you’ve looked death in the face.”
Did you know?
President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed a national holiday called Armistice Day to take place on November 11, 1919 and annually thereafter to commemorate the signing of the armistice treaty that ended World War I. The holiday served to honor those who served and lost their lives in the war. However, it wasn’t until 34 years later when a Kansas shoe store owner proposed the holiday should be expanded to remember all veterans, not just those of World War I. Alfred King, a shoe store owner in Emporia, Kansas, began a campaign to turn Armistice Day into “All” Veterans Day. His town’s Chamber of Commerce got involved and participated in the cause, urging all business owners to shut down on November 11 to honor veterans. United States Representative Ed Rees, also of Emporia, helped push a bill through Congress, which President Dwight Eisenhower later signed into law on May 26, 1954. Roughly one week later “Armistice” was changed to “Veterans” and the holiday has honored all veterans ever since.
Thank you for your service
Happy Veterans Day!
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The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015 — 6
Iraq war veteran owes his life to a Zippo By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER Era Associate Editor marcie@bradfordera.com
Photo provided Zippo Manufacturing Co. has a museum featuring items such as this, a lighter that took a bullet, saving someone’s life. Nathan Esparza, a U.S. Air Force veteran, shared a story with Zippo recently about one of its lighters that similarly took a bullet for him in Iraq in 2003.
U.S. Air Force veteran Nathan Esparza of Seattle, Wash., owes his life to a Zippo lighter. In 2003, Esparza was serving as a senior airman and surgical technician on a six-month tour in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom/ Operation Enduring Freedom. With him, as always, was the Zippo lighter handed down through his family. “After three months there, I was given authorization to leave base camp and see the town at the same time I was informed that a Burger King was up and running in the Baghdad Airport,” he recounted in a letter to Zippo. “To cut a long story short after taking a trip from where I was to the airport and after sating a craving for a cheeseburger I was on
my way back to base camp when the group I was traveling with began to take fire. “At one point one of the soldiers I was with was shot in the chest. Being a medic I was fast to my feet, I rendered aid, and ultimately we were able to save said soldier’s life,” Esparza said. “Little did I know it at the time — be it due to adrenaline or complete distraction — I came to find later that I, too, had been wounded in the exchange,” he said. “I was wounded in the foot and have lost all sensation since. “What makes this interesting is that I was initially shot in the leg in the inner thigh,” Esparza said, “and had (the bullet) gone in where I was hit, I wouldn’t be sending this letter today. “Luckily I was carrying a Zippo in that pocket. It was the very same Zippo my grandfather took with him to Normandy, and the Zippo my dad
took with him to Saigon. Upon word of my deployment my dad had passed the Zippo on to me. “And I’m glad he did because if it had not been there to deflect the bullet I would have died there because of a severed artery,” the veteran said. Esparza made it home in one piece, but his Zippo did not. “Unfortunately the lighter was destroyed, but I am here because of it. “Thank you Zippo for saving my life.” He said, “Many of my relatives and friends agree that the lighter came to a fitting end. To use the old Timex slogan, it took a licking so that I could keep on ticking.” In a conversation with The Era, Esparza said he has two Zippo lighters, but doesn’t carry either of them with him. “I don’t expect to be getting shot at,” he said with a laugh.
Decorated World War II veteran Nagel shares his story By KATE DAY SAGER Era Reporter kdsager@bradfordera.com
Raymond Nagel Sr. remembers firing .50-caliber guns with each of his hands at a German submarine near the Brazilian coast with such accuracy that the enemy gun crews abandoned their stations on the doomed vessel. Nagel, a decorated World War II veteran with the U.S. Naval Reserve, and his family agreed to share his story to ensure that the battles fought in South America during the war are never forgotten. Now 92, Nagel remembers many of the details of that day in 1943 when he and others on a Navy patrol plane spotted a German submarine in the South Atlantic Ocean making its way to Brazil. At the time, the world was focused on the ongoing battles in the European and Pacific theaters. Many paid little attention to U.S. anti-submarine patrols along the American coasts whose mission was to guard against enemy invasion. A native of Arkwright, N.Y., and former resident of Limestone, N.Y., Nagel currently resides at the Bradford Manor Skilled Therapy Care and Nursing facility. He has provided Veterans Day presentations on his war experience at the facility in the past. Nagel enlisted at the age of 18 following graduation from East Aurora (N.Y.) High School in 1941 and was sent to aircraft mechanic school. Later, he was assigned as an aviation machinist’s mate, first class, on a Navy Patrol Plane that was referred to as a “flying boat.” While serving as the anti-submarine patrol along a coastal area of Brazil on July 31, 1943, Nagel and the aircraft crew spotted something on the radar. “A few minutes later, the flight commander got his binoculars out and said ‘Glory be, it’s a sub,’” Nagel said in remembering the long-ago remark. Springing into action, Nagel, who served as the gunner, grabbed two .50-caliber machine guns and began firing simultaneously at the U-199 submarine commanded by German Capt. Lt. Hans Werner Kraus. “I charged them both at the same time, I wouldn’t be strong enough to do that again,” Nagel said of the two large guns. According to a citation and a Combat Air Medal presented to Nagel by the Secretary of the Navy, Nagel “brought his guns to bear with deadly accuracy, forcing the enemy gun crews to abandon their
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stations during the attack …” “By his expert marksmanship and valiant fighting spirit through this hazardous engagement, Nagel contributed essentially to the severe damage and eventual sinking of an important enemy submarine,” the citation read. The submarine had been operated by Kraus, whose U-boat force had been instrumental in sinking eight ships of the Allied Force. After stopping the submarine, Nagel took out his $3 Brownie camera and took photos of the surrendering Germans who were later picked up by a U.S. Navy boat. Copies of the photos were provided to the Navy, and are also stored at the Eldred World War II Museum. Following his heroic action, Nagel was promoted to Chief Petty Officer, a rank he was proud to have achieved. At the end of the war in 1945, Nagel continued to serve and travel with the Naval Reserve as Chief War Master, and later with the Army Reserve, while raising a family of five children with his first wife. He also worked at Gowanda (N.Y.) State Hospital in the lab and other capacities for 36 years. In addition, he owned and operated small Era photo by Kate Day Sager retail stores, and trained to be a licensed practical Decorated World War II veteran Ray Nagel Sr. shared his story of almost singlenurse. He worked at nursing homes in the area handedly stopping a Nazi submarine in South America near the coast of Brazil. during an era when men didn’t typically work in the field. “I had one woman tell me she’d never in her ‘wildest dreams believed a man would give me a bath,’” Nagel remembered with a chuckle. “But she said, ‘I kind of enjoyed it.’” In later years, he lived with his daughter Elaine Harris in Limestone before moving to Bradford Manor. Nagel’s son, Ray Nagel Jr., who is also a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, did research and documented his father’s heroic act. He compiled the documents on the U-199 capture in a binder that he presented to his dad several years ago. Ray Nagel Jr. said many people don’t understand the importance of the anti-submarine patrols that were operated in America by veterans like his father. “We had German submarines as close as New York City, people don’t realize the war came that close to the U.S.,” he noted. “We had a war that almost landed in our laps.”
For all that you are and all that you’ve given to our country, we salute you, veterans. Thank you for protecting our freedom at home and overseas. Your service and your sacrifice will always be remembered.
With gratitude, we honor America’s veterans and military personnel.
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We thank the brave men and women who risked their lives to preserve our freedom. Thank you for your service and have a Happy Veterans Day!
The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015 — 7
Potter County’s L.E.E.K. Preserve helps veterans By AMANDA JONES Era Correspondent amandajonesera@yahoo.com COUDERSPORT — In Potter County, a group of dedicated volunteers are working to help wounded and disabled veterans by providing instruction in outdoor recreational activities. The L.E.E.K. Hunting and Mountain Preserve, located just outside of Oswayo in Potter County, brims with amenities designed to help wounded and disabled veterans regain confidence and learn coping skills by teaching them to hunt, fish and enjoy the outdoors. L.E.E.K. hosts four hunts per year: Spring Gobbler season in May; Blackpowder (Muzzleloader) season in late October; bear season in late November and Winter Whitetail Deer season in mid-December. Former participant Jack Knouse now serves as a volunteer whenever he is available, and touts the program as a great opportunity for returning servicemen. “I saw an advertisement in a magazine for L.E.E.K., and I called because I really wanted to help,” Knouse stated, “This is a great, fabulous, organization. I just wanted to be involved. There are active duty guys that use their leave to come out here and help out.” The L.E.E.K. Preserve is located in beautiful northern Potter County, with scenic vistas spreading out in all directions from the bunk house
where the wounded warriors are housed during the trip, the Jason L. Dunham Warrior Barracks. All structures and amenities on the grounds have been constructed by volunteers and through the support of generous donations from individuals and organizations throughout the county and across the region. In addition to the barracks and game processing center, the grounds have indoor shooting benches for the rifle range, a fully handicapped-accessible separate bunk house with space enough to accommodate a caretaker or spouse traveling with the warrior, a pavilion, and an all-terrain, fully-tracked electric wheelchair for use by participants unable to walk the rugged trails and mountains of the large preserve.. L.E.E.K. was started by Lew and Ed Fisher and their wives, Elaine and Kate, and the name is derived from the initials of the founders’ first names. The land was purchased to realize a dream of Lew and Ed’s father, who was an amputee and wanted to see a place that would help those who had similar issues. After Ed Fisher left the military, he heard of Project Healing Waters, a similar program benefiting wounded serviceman, and knew how he could help. “After I retired, I really missed the military, and my wife and I decided to do something for the veterans — some of them are really torn up after duty,” Fisher stated. “There’s a need to help these kids when they’re coming home.”
The preserve began with just over 100 acres of land, but has expanded over the last seven years to include more than 250 acres of pristine wilderness. The organization works with local property owners to offer thousands of additional acres for the program. L.E.E.K. Preserve recently received the 2012 Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award, following nomination by the U.S. Navy. The award program, established in 1996, is gifted in honor of a private sector individual or organization that has demonstrated exceptional patriotism and humanitarian concerns for members of the armed forces and their families. The group’s biggest fundraiser of the year is the annual open house and motorcycle dice run, held in June. The event includes a silent auction, live auction, vendors, displays, several sit-down meals, food and beverages. This year’s event saw the dedication of a new trap shooting range, and improvements are expected to continue. Taking care of veterans comes naturally to the residents of northcentral Pennsylvania, as is evidenced by the volunteers at L.E.E.K. Preserve and the multitude of local organizations that help support it. L.E.E.K. also works with the God’s Country Chapter of Project Healing Waters, which organizes Potter County fishing trips for wounded and disabled veterans, and service organiza-
Several motorcycles park at the LEEK Preserve after a motorcycle run to help raise funds to bring wounded warriors to the property for outdoor recreational opportunities. tions including the American Legion, VFW, Patriot Guard and the Nam Knights, and is active at Potter County Patriot Weekend and other events held in the area. Countless volunteers work tirelessly to organize events and raise money to support local veteran support efforts, and generous donors continue to support these important organizations in recognition of the sacrifices made for America’s freedoms. “It’s a way of life here in this area to honor our servicemen; we hold that particular behavior as part of our culture,” said Commissioner Susan Kefover.
The Jason L. Dunham Warrior Barracks, named after a Scio, N.Y., Marine Corps soldier, who was posthumously awarded the medal of honor for covering a grenade with his body to save his fellow soldiers, was added to the L.E.E.K. Preserve several years ago.
The late Stanley G. Black of Bradford served as a master sergeant in the U.S. Air Force. He died Jan.23 2013. He participated in every Veterans Day parade as well as Memorial Day and was proud of his uniform and honored his country in any way he could. He served in Vietnam and Korea eras.
Thank you for protecting our freedom & liberty.
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HAPPY VETERANS DAY! THANK YOU!
Thank you Veterans for serving our country and for stepping forward when others step back.
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As our Armed Forces fight to protect our freedom abroad, we’re reminded of the sacrifice made by so many brave soldiers before them. On Veterans Day, we pause to recognize and thank all of the veterans who have served our country. We are eternally grateful for their dedication and service. 94 Barbour St., Bradford •
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For every moment of peace, liberty and greatness our country enjoys, we have someone who has worn the uniform to thank
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8 — The Bradford (Pa.) Era, Wednesday, November 11, 2015
DeLucia aims to keep memory alive of WWII By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER Era Associate Editor marcie@bradfordera.com
Elmer DeLucia has shared his experiences from World War II with generations of school children and the public — yet it isn’t out of any quest for attention. Rather, DeLucia shares his story to keep alive the memory of the 407,000 military lives lost in the Second World War. DeLucia was part of the 81st Chemical Mortar Battalion in the U.S. Army, and was involved in five major campaigns during his time in Europe, including the D-Day Invasion at Omaha Beach, the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of Paris. He’s a decorated veteran, having been honored with three Purple Hearts, two Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, five Major Battle Medals, a Chevalier in the Legion of Honor in France and a Good Conduct Medal. And he wouldn’t hesitate to do it all again, continuing a lesson taught by his Italian immigrant father, Dominic DeLucia. When his father went before a magistrate to become an American citizen, his three sons were off at war. Elmer DeLucia recounted that when his father was asked how he felt about America, he replied, “If I had three more sons, I’d give them to this country.” Elmer DeLucia’s brother, Anthony “Bib” DeLucia, was listed as missing in action following a plane crash over China on his 24th birthday, Aug. 31, 1944. The plane was found in 1996 on the side of a mountain in Guangxi Province in China, and his remains were brought home. His brother Augie DeLucia served in the U.S. Air Force as a gunner on a B17 bomber during World War II. He was shot down over Stuttgart, Germany, in a bombing mission. He lost an eye, and was awarded a Purple Heart. He died at the age of 89 on Nov. 24, 2007. Elmer DeLucia graduated early in 1943, as the males in the senior class were drafted out of high school — he was given his diploma and sent to Fort Indiantown Gap to start his military service. He trained in Alabama as a telescopic sight man before heading overseas. He stormed the beach at Normandy on June 6, 1944, with the 81st A Company, in support of the 16th Infantry Division, passing through Colleville Sur Mer. “Two days before D-Day, General Ike
TOP: Elmer DeLucia drops a a 4.2 mortar shell in France in 1944, firing at a German stronghold in World War II. He was in combat for 313 days. RIGHT: Elmer DeLucia and another soldier take a moment’s rest on top of a captured tank in World War II. (Eisenhower) talked,” DeLucia said. “His head was down. He looked sad. He knew many GIs would not make it. He shook hands with all of us and said ‘God bless’ to all of them. I will never forget the day.” Calling himself a “scared kid” at D-Day, DeLucia said he lost three of his best friends — Margarito Frausto of Texas, Lucian Hughes of West Virginia and Warren Knipple of Cincinnati, Ohio. He explained he and the three other soldiers went to France together and were split up to four separate companies. DeLucia was sent with Company A. At the time they said their goodbyes, they all said “See You Later.” DeLucia didn’t realize he would never see them again. “My superior officer said, ‘Elmer I have some bad news. It’s about those guys you trained with.’ I said, ‘Which one got it?’ and he said, ‘Elmer, they all did,’” DeLucia remembered. “I sat down and cried. After all our time training together in the United States, they were killed. I never got over that.” He was wounded in action in France in October of 1944, and again in Germany in March of 1945. In December of 1944, he was in the Battle of the Bulge, where he spent two weeks fighting in the freezing cold. Others spent six weeks, he said, brushing off
Remembering the Freeman brothers The three Freeman brothers, all natives of Duke Center, saw service in World War II and the Korean War. Sydney, the oldest, was part of the 84th Infantry Division in Europe. He experienced major action in Belgium, was involved in a major Battle of the Bulge and served as occupation forces in Berlin. He returned as a major sergeant and was awarded the bronze star. Archie (Cappy) saw service in the army in the European theater and was also part of the occupation of Berlin. He came back as a
master sergeant. The youngest, Alex (Dick), saw service in the U.S. Navy during the World War II, serving in the South Pacific aboard the U.S.S. Boston, a heavy cruiser, and was awarded the Philippine Liberation Medal. All three brothers were involved in the Korean War with the 113th Fighter Squadron, Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. Alex was assigned temporarily to the Navy in 1960 AACS, stationed on the island of Kwajalein in the South Pacific until the war’s end.
11.11.14
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After the wars, the brothers settled in the Washington, D.C., area. Sydney and Archie are decreased, and Alex is retired and living in Bradford. The brothers were the sons of Archie and Crystal Freeman of Olean, N.Y.
comments of the hardships he suffered. “I had the same clothes on for five months,” DeLucia said. “There weren’t sanitary conditions there.” He went on to describe his second Purple Heart, adding that he wouldn’t be here today if not for the heroic actions of another. “On March 21, 1945, Lt. John Campbell from New Jersey saved my life.” He told a story about A Company’s encampment being bombed by enemy planes. “We were taking strafe fire from an aircraft.” At 7:10 a.m., German planes attacked A Company, which was serving breakfast in the encampment at Wachenheim. “Forty-four Purple Hearts were earned in 10 minutes,” DeLucia recounted. Campbell was hit by machine gunfire in the process of saving DeLucia. “I was hit when I tried to help Lt. Campbell,” he said. “A shell exploded a few feet from me. My helmet flew off. I tried to run for cover.” He had taken shrapnel hits to the leg, and had to use his belt as a tourniquet. There are many horrors of war that DeLucia doesn’t talk about much, including the liberation of the Ohrdruf concentration camp, a subcamp of Buchenwald. With tears in his eyes nearly 70 years later, he briefly described emaciated
men and women who survived the brutality and atrocities committed there by the Nazis. It was the first camp liberated by U.S. forces. Eisenhower, visiting a week after the liberation, ordered careful documentation of the horrors there so no one could deny the Holocaust had happened. Speaking of his wartime memories, DeLucia said, “I think about it all the time. All these guys who were killed and never had a chance.” When asked how his military experiences shaped his life, DeLucia grew emotional and said he learned to appreciate life. “I’m very fortunate to be here,” he said. His experiences taught him to help others. “If I can do something for someone else, I do it.” After earning a chest-full of medals, losing one brother and seeing another badly injured, DeLucia is anything but soured on military service. “I would do it again,” he said. He brushes aside compliments and the label of “hero.” “The real heroes are the ones we left behind.” He still remembers the day he heard the war had ended. “We didn’t celebrate,” DeLucia said. “We said a prayer for the guys who never made it.”