November 2012
We Are Here. We Care.
We Support You.
Military personnel come home from combat and are welcomed back into their families and communities. Everyone is relieved and joyful at their return. Then sometimes things change, sometimes subtle, sometimes with much emotional intensity. Vacant stares, irritability, anger without warning, fear, extreme vigilance, mood swings, emotional numbing, isolation, avoidance, flashbacks, and nightmares. The Veteran is confused, the family is often scared and all feel overwhelmed. These are some of the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. The Center for Disease Control estimates that between 10-20% of our Veterans suffer from this devastating illness. It is estimated that at least 20% of all Veterans suffering with PTSD also have a substance abuse issue. There are treatments available to treat PTSD and substance abuse at the same time, which has the best chance for positive outcomes. If you are a Veteran struggling with these issues, or know someone who is, please reach out for assistance. Contact your nearest VA Medical Center or a local mental health facility to start the process. There is hope for recovery. In Southeast Indiana please contact:
Veterans Assistance Healthcare Associates, Southeastern Indiana 1600 Flossie Drive • Greendale, IN • (812) 539-2313
Mon-Fri • 8:00 am - 4:30 pm This message brought to you by:
2 - Veterans Day Salute
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
Jewelers Box We buy
GOLD, SILVER
R
CU
I PA
RE
ST OM
RY EL
W JE
CA ST IN G
DIAMONDS & COIN
WATCH
BATTERIES
PAYING TOP PRICES Gold, Platinum & Silver, Class Rings, Broken Rings & Chains
SILVER COINS & PAPER MONEY STERLING FLATWARE & TEA SETS, ESTATES Must be 18 with proper ID
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Including Layaway
*
50% Plus10%OFF *Excludes watches, coins, and paper money
Across from Lowe’s & Pizza Hut, next to Pirates Den in JTS Plaza
Jewelers Box • 1083 Eads Parkway, US 50, Lawrenceburg, IN 812-537-0901 • Open M-F 10a-6p Sat 10a-3p Promotional offer expires 11-15-12
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
Veterans Day Salute - 3
Six World War II veterans were honored during the Aurora Farmers Fair in October. Three of them are featured in this special section, others will be featured in the Thursday, Nov. 8, Dearborn County Register. The six were recognized on stage Thursday, Oct. 4, in a program coordinated by the Southeast Indiana Korean War Veterans Chapter. The program opened with a prayer by Korean War veteran Tom Largent, followed by the singing of the national anthem by eighth grader Mariah Reynolds. She also delivered a speech honoring America. Luther Rice, Aurora, commander of the Korean War veterans chapter, described the experiences of each honoree during WW II. Each, he said, “is truly a member of America’s Greatest Generation as newscaster Tom Brokaw described those who served, fought and died in defense of liberty during World War II.” Then George Niemeyer, commander of the Aurora American Legion Post, and P. G. Gentrup, Ohio County veterans service officer, presented each man with a certificate, a plaque and a ball cap identifying them as WW II veterans. The Korean War Veterans firing squad fired three volleys, followed by bugler Nelson Elliott sounding Taps. Bagpiper Mark Morton, Rising Sun, then played Amazing Grace. The program concluded with Ken Jackson inviting the crowd to join him in singing God Bless America. Rice thanked each honoree for his service to his country, and also thanked Jackson and the Aurora Farmers Fair Committee for making the recognition program possible.
Frozen feet took Cook from battlefield Chandra L. Mattingly Staff Reporter cmattingly@registerpublications.com
As infantry, “you did the best you could” in the military push through France in the last months of World War II, said Thomas D. Cook, Lawrenceburg. “It was nonstop; you slept standing up or wherever you could,” he said, recalling the drive through the Vosges Mountains. There, the Germans would fire into the trees, causing wood and shrapnel to rain down upon the Allied troops. Cook and his fellow soldiers acquired small saws and cut logs to cover their foxholes and protect them from the “tree bursts,” he said. It was November 1944, as the 103rd Infantry Division attacked west of St. Die, drove through the mountains, and crossed the Meurthe River. By month’s end, the division had captured St. Die and Siefenbach, followed by Selestat Dec. 4. The soldiers had orders to disrupt the German sup-
plies when they could. “You lived outdoors like “The Germans used an animal … in a hole in horse-drawn equipment, the ground,” he said, referso one of the instructions ring to foxholes. Once in was to shoot the horses. awhile the troops would go … I scared a few,” said inside a barn, and that was Cook, explaining he never a “luxury,” he said. killed any. As for their own supplies,“it was touch and “We were cut off by the go. They’d get supplies to Germans us as they one time, could,” said and we lived Cook, 88. three days Both the on raw poenemy and tatoes,” he the weather recalled. took their In Decemtoll, and ber, the divihe’s not sion pushed sure which t h r o ugh was worse. C l i m b ach, “That’s a a s s a u l ted hard quesThomas D. Cook the Siegtion to anfried Line swer. You were fighting and participated in the Batboth of them,” he said. tle of the Bulge, said Cook. Some didn’t survive. He His division was moved remembers sleet coating his clothes and freezing from the Vosges Mountains closer to Bastogne. during one storm. “We were kind of a back “You’d try to move and up if the break-through chunks of ice would fall continued; we were the off. … The weather was supporting troops for that,” detrimental to your health,” he said. But the German he said. The soldiers imbreak-through was stopped provised and became a bit before it got to them, he toughened.
Potato diet
“It was nonstop; you slept standing up or wherever you could.” -Thomas D. Cook World War II veteran said. Afterward, in January, the unit was in an area around the German border, near Muehlhausen, where they had no news of how the war was going overall. “It was very fluid. You weren’t really sure from one day to the next whether you were on the defensive or the offensive. … It was just a little group of you that seemed to be moving back and forth. We didn’t have the overall picture,” he said. Up to then, Cook had done as the other soldiers, wearing wool socks, changing them if they got wet. But in March 1945 he was evacuated due to frozen feet, first to a hospital in France and then to England. “My problem was I got my feet wet and I had no socks and no additional
boots,” he said. He spent six months in hospitals, which he thinks was longer than necessary, and was discharged in September 1945 as 50 percent disabled, he said. That later was reduced to 30 percent and finally dropped. “I still have some effects from that,” he added. Cook originally was being trained as an engineer after he entered the Army in May 1943. The “condensed version” of a four-year program at Oklahoma State University ended abruptly when the school closed and he was sent to the 103rd Infantry Division as a machine gunner. “The government decided they needed more boots on the ground than seats in the school,” he said. But that was the most difficult part for him: “going from a campus to almost the front
line” in a two- or threemonth period, he said. “When the war was over, that was the most rewarding time to me,” he said. Cook’s military decorations and awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Combat Infantry Badge, Army Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars, and the WW II Victory Medal. Cook married Jean Pribble, a fellow member of the Methodist Church and family friend, in 1953. The couple have one daughter, Susan Zwiesler, Florida, and a granddaughter, Katherine, California. Cook worked as a trust officer for American State Bank, Lawrenceburg, until he retired about 10 years ago.
We salute our nation’s heroes. The entire group at United Community Bank proudly salute the men and women who have given their lives in selfless service to our great nation. We will always remember the difference they made, and we will never forget their sacrifice. www.BankUCB.com • 812-537-4UCB(4822)
Lawrenceburg
Hidden Valley Lake
US 50 (Lawrenceburg)
4 - Veterans Day Salute
We Honor & Support All Who Served
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
Veterans Day Salute - 5
STRAIGHT TALK
Veterans can struggle with Post traumatic stress disorder Military personnel come home from combat and are welcomed back into their families and communities. Everyone is relieved and joyful at their return. Then sometimes things change, sometimes subtle, sometimes with much emotional intensity. Vacant stares, irritability, anger without warning, fear, extreme vigilance, mood swings, emotional numbing, isolation, avoidance, flashbacks, and nightmares. The Veteran is confused, the family is often scared and all feel overwhelmed. These are some of the symptoms of Post traumatic stress
disorder or PTSD. The Cen- age his or her distress, or at ter for Disease Control esti- least hide it effectively from mates that between 10 to 20 family and friends. percent of our VeterWhile there are ans suffer from this CONNIE multiple treatment devastating illness. for PTSD BOEHNER options In most cases for available to our vetthe Veterans, the erans, the stigma of traumas are related to the re- asking for help often leads alities of combat, and often them to other options. Many the veteran feels “embar- turn to self-medication rassed or weak” in admitting through the misuse of alcothat they are struggling to hol, prescription medication cope with these experienc- abuse, and the use of illegal es. In addition, most people substances. around the Veteran expect They believe that this asthat now that they are home, sists them by numbing them they can “leave all that other to the emotional pain that stuff behind.” they are suffering from but This puts additional pres- it also distances them from sure on the Veteran to man- family, friends, and co-
workers. Often the family becomes focused on the substance abuse, without understanding the real issues buried beneath. Further, substance abuse makes it much more difficult to effectively treat the symptoms of PTSD and achieve some measure of recovery because it continues the cycle of PTSD avoidance. Avoiding the bad memories, dreams, people, and places can actually make PTSD worse and extend its course. It is estimated that at least 20 percent of all Veterans suffering with PTSD also have a substance abuse issue. There are treatments
available to treat PTSD and substance abuse at the same time, which has the best chance for positive outcomes. If you are a Veteran struggling with these issues, or know someone who is, please reach out for assistance. Contact your nearest VA Medical Center or a local mental health facility to start the process. There is hope for recovery. Connie Boehner is a Psychologist working at the VA Medical Center Partial Hospital & Inpatient Psychiatry Unit at 3200 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220. She
was once an Executive Committee Board Member of Dearborn County Citizens Against Substance Abuse (CASA) and is still involved on a limited basis. She had two Iraqi Veterans help her with this article but they wished to remain nameless. Dearborn County CASA invites you to become part of the solution and join them the first Monday of every month at 11:30 am in Classroom A of the Lawrenceburg Community Center. For more information on this organization go to www.dearborncountycasa. com or contact Donna at 1-812-532-3538.
In honor of those who served Veterans service officer will speak DILLSBORO- The Veterans Day service in Dillsboro will be at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11, at Heritage Pointe, the corner of Bank and North streets. The speaker for that day will be Ken Hylton, Sunman, the Ripley County Veterans Service Officer. He has had the position since 2007. He also is a U.S. Army veteran and a retired from the U.S. Postal Service. U.S. veterans Paul Stevens and Larry Rump will place the memorial wreath. The Northcutt Laaker American Legion Post No. 292 and the Dillsboro Beautification Committee have planned this event.
Tribute to our own RISING SUN - Ohio County Historical Society and Museum will present the exhibit “Local Veterans, Their Memories and Artifacts” through Friday, Nov. 16. The museum is open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no admission charge. All donations gratefully accepted. For more information go to www.ohiocountymuseum.org or call 1-812-438-4915.
Free concert honors veterans, families OVER-THE-RHINE – The century old Hamilton County Memorial Hall will host a free concert to honor military Veterans and their families at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10. The program will begin with a Color Guard representing all branches of the U.S. Military, followed by a special rendition of the National Anthem by the Cincinnati Boychoir. The Queen City Concert Band will also take the stage. A number of distinguished speakers will be on hand to briefly address the audience, including retired U.S. Air Force pilot and well-known philanthropist, Otto M. Budig. Following the program will be a complementary cookie and
punch reception. The concert is free and open to the public. Voluntary donations will be accepted with proceeds benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project. Memorial Hall is on Elm Street, at the heart of Washington Park, in Over-the-Rhine. Paid parking is available in the Central System lot, immediately adjacent to Memorial Hall, and nearby in the newly opened Washington Park Garage.
School will salute the brave RISING SUN- The students and faculty of Rising Sun Community Schools will be honoring those men and women who have served or are presently serving our country beginning at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 9, in the Rising Sun High School Gym. The public is invited to attend the program.
Special celebration, and a free lunch LAWRENCEBURG- A Veterans Day celebration will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 9, at Ridgewood Health Campus, 181 Campus Drive, Lawrenceburg. Be a guest at the special celebration and complimentary lunch while community veterans are honored.
Cincinnati State hosts Veteran’s Appreciation Week CINCINNATI-Cincinnati State will host a“Veteran’s Appreciation Week”starting Nov. 5, leading up to the national Veteran’s Day observance on Sunday, Nov. 11, and the federal holiday that will be observed. The activities include a VA Medical Center mobile health unit, which will be on campus all week to provide free services to the more than 450 students who have served in the military, as well as other veterans in the community who are not enrolled at Cincinnati State.
Here are highlights of some of the activities:
Wednesday, Nov. 7: “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” From 9 a.m. to noon the VA will be enrolling and offering brief medical exams and flu vaccines in the mobile unit for any VA eligible veteran. Bring DD214 if not already enrolled in VA. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. subject matter experts in the area of PTSD services will be available at the VA table outside the mobile unit. Veterans will be offered free admission to the women’s and men’s basketball games against the Ohio State University JV teams. The women’s game begins at 5:30 p.m., the men’s game at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8: “Women’s Services” From 9 a.m. to noon, veterans on campus will have their last chance during this campaign to be enrolled and offered a brief medical exam and flu shot in the mobile unit. Bring DD214 if not already enrolled in VA. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. the VA will have subject matter experts in the area of women’s services available outside the mobile unit. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the U.S. Army National Guard will be on campus with a portable obstacle course, open to students and community members who wish to participate. Friday, Nov. 9: “Questions and Answers” VA representatives will answer questions concerning benefits. Specialists in Vocational Rehabilitation will answer VA education benefit questions. Cincinnati State’s Center for Innovative Technologies will offer a special orientation session concerning its engineering technologies programs, targeted to veterans. Veterans will have the opportunity to take a placement (required for admission to Cincinnati State) that helps analyze academic strengths, potential areas of student interest. Non-perishable food items will be collected all week in the Veteran Student Affairs office to be donated to the Joseph House, a shelter for homeless veterans in Over-the-Rhine.
“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty.” ~John F. Kennedy We proudly support those who serve and have served.
American Legion Post 239 201 Second St., Lawrenceburg 812-537-0349
We thank the brave men and women of our
Armed Forces for their dedication and sacrifice. As we mark Veterans Day, we also honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our nation.
God Bless America
Lawrenceburg
Community Center 432 Walnut Street, Lawrenceubrg, IN 47025 • 812-532-3535 www.lawrenceburgcommunitycenter.com
6 - Veterans Day Salute
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
One pilot, three wars, 170 combat missions Chandra L. Mattingly Staff Reporter cmattingly@registerpublications.com
Asked his favorite plane, the Dillsboro man who flew 170 combat missions in his military career said it’s “kind of a toss-up.” He spent 4,000 or 5,000 hours on a B-25 and 400 or 500 hours on the A-26, said John William Lewis, 94. “I liked them both,” said Lewis, whose service included World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. “In the B-25, we had two pilots, in the A-26 only one. … But the A-26 handled like a fighter plane,” he said. But the one he flew during the Vietnam War was the most exciting to fly because it had so much equipment on it, he added. Lewis joined the Army Air Corps Reserve in June 1942, and, classified as a pilot, started out flying P-40s. But due to a shortage of B-25 pilots, he then was trained for bomber combat, and transferred to Casablanca, Morocco, Africa, in December 1943. A few months later, in February 1944, he was assigned to Pompeii, Italy, only to have Mt. Vesuvius erupt and bury 85 B-25s and two Hurricanes under 18 to 24 inches of cinders, said Lewis. Before the eruption, the 37th Bomb Wing wanted to move them but were told the volcano had been expected to blow up for the past 100 years, so not to bother, said Lewis. When the eruption started, his unit stayed in the seven or eight stone houses in the village until they were evacuated by tanks and trucks. Large, hot cinders had taken out the tires on other vehicles. Transferred to Corsica, Lewis continued to fly bombing missions.
“We were hit a lot of times; “He was a nice guy,” said only one time we were shot Lewis. The two pilots repeatdown,” he said. His crew edly tried to bomb a bridge, would fly over the Alpines but were unsuccessful, he in Italy figuring no Germans recalled. would be 9,000 to 10,000 “We’d drop a bomb and it feet up the mountains. But would bounce,” said Lewis. this time When he had the enemy completed 59 had snuck missions, Lewis up with a was assigned truck and 9 to fly courier mm guns, planes while opening fire waiting for and causing D-Day. He was Lewis’ plane to rotate back to to crash. the States upon Knowing completing 60 they were missions, but in trouble, was reassigned the bomber to combat three crew tried days before to get rid of D-Day. John William Lewis the bombs in The early their bomb bay, said Lewis. events of D-Day were funny, But the bay wouldn’t open. he said. “We jumped on the handle “We had two squadrons go and broke the handle off,” out,” said Lewis. One was to he said. Then the engineer bomb a French battleship the volunteered to chop through Germans had captured; the the hydraulic fuel lines with other to bomb the beach at an axe in hopes that would Normandy. But the Germans work. had heard about the latter and “About the second line he none were on the beach, said chopped through, the bomb Lewis. bay doors opened and we “So they (the one squadgot them out,” said Lewis. ron) bombed the battleship He and the engineer were and we just bombed the the only two members of the sand,” he said. He made three seven-man crew not to be in- combat missions a day for jured before they came down three days, bombing the Noron an island about 100 miles mandy beaches with 100 lb. outside of Italy. bombs. On one mission, he “We had some rough mis- went behind the chalk cliffs sions,” said Lewis, noting at Dover and bombed the he was “about worked … Germans there. And on the to death.” He served as R & last, his co-pilot was a cadet R officer, chief engineer/test just out of flight school, and pilot, and instructor pilot. He all the actual flying fell to was over there four to five Lewis. months longer than the rest “I was a tired cat,” he of his crew, he said, noting recalled. he got only about four hours sleep each night. While in Corsica, Lewis Sent home in September was teamed with Deke Slay1944, Lewis was assigned ton, flying low-level combat missions. Slayton later would as an instructor in Douglas, become an astronaut, but not Ariz., then discharged under before he was grounded after the point system. He re55 missions for an uneven mained in the reserves, and in 1951 was recalled to fly heart beat.
425 mph!
“More powerful than the will to win is the courage to begin.” - Unknown
The City of Greeandale would like to thank our Veterans for their bravery & sacrifices. Mayor Doug Hedrick • City Council Clerk Treasurer Joey Lynch
bombers during the Korean War. Retrained to fly A-26 twin engine bombers, he flew 50 combat missions in Korea during a seven-month period. That plane could go, said Lewis. “I loved to fly that airplane! That thing would do 425 mph,” he said. As the lone pilot, he was accompanied by a navigator and a gunner, but actually fired the guns himself. The gunner just kept track of what was fired, said Lewis. Once again he was released from active duty but remained in the reserves. In May 1968 he was recalled to active duty to serve in the Vietnam War, and flew 51 missions. All, over a sixmonth period, were flown at night. A number of missions involved getting personnel out, and Lewis would fly a C-130
at 2,500 feet to see if anyone on the ground would shoot at his plane, checking the situation before a chopper pilot at 5,000 feet would consider landing. Lewis left one plane in Vietnam, a C-19 converted to a gunship, and called the Shadow. The plane had set out in the weather for 2 ½ years before he was assigned to fly it first from Virginian to Columbus, Ohio, on to Oklahoma, then to Vietnam on a test hop. But by the time he got it to Tulsa, one engine had gone out and the control panel was rusted. He was told the military already had waited three years for this plane, so it had to be fixed and flown. “Every cable in it had 72 guys working on it overnight,” said Lewis. But by the time he got it to Vietnam, it had a runaway prop and he
grounded it. Coincidentally, it took him 51 days to get there with the ill-fated plane, then he flew 51 missions in Vietnam. Returning to the United States, Lewis was retrained to fly jet aircraft. He retired from the Air Force in 1978 as a full colonel. In between the times he spent on active duty, Lewis worked for Joseph E. Seagram & Son Distillery in Lawrenceburg, married Alberta Ochs in October 1944, and raised a son and a daughter. He retired from Seagram as a supervisor after 47 years. Among his numerous military decorations and awards, Col. Lewis received the distinguished Flying Cross for WW II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He also received 11 air medals during WW II, one in Korea and one in Vietnam.
“A love for tradition has never weakened a nation, indeed it has strengthened nations in their hour of peril.” -Winston Churchill Proudly supporting our Veterans today, and every day. Lawrenceburg Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 2018 334 Lake Street Lawrenceburg, IN (812) 537-3347
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
Veterans Day Salute - 7
The Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress The mission of the Veterans History Project of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress is to collect, preserve, and make accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war. You can be part of this important project. You can volunteer to conduct interviews and collect historical documents. You may also organize interview groups and teach others how to conduct interviews. Educational institutions, retirement communities, veterans’ service organizations, churches, and other community groups are a few good places to start. Items included in the Veterans History Project Collection. Collections may take the form of war veterans’ firsthand oral histories, memoirs, collections of photographs and letters, diaries, and other historical documents from World War I through current conflicts. Share the story of a deceased veteran. On behalf of a deceased war veteran, you may submit historical documents like the veteran’s collection of photographs, letters, diaries and memoirs. You will need to complete the biographical data form and a release form for the deceased veteran. Interview a Veteran. Preserve History. By taking part in the Veterans History Project (VHP), you are contributing to the permanent collections of the Library of Congress, one of the world’s most respected research and cultural institutions. When you participate, you are making history. You’ll find a few sample interviews with a list of possible interview questions to ask at: www.history.com/minisites/ veterans/guides/oralhistory_ sample2008.pdf It’s as easy as following these simple steps: Step 1: Visit www.loc.gov/ vets and download a Field Kit, which gives you guidelines for conducting interviews and for
what we do and don’t accept. If you don’t have Internet access, call the toll-free message line at 888-3715848 to request a Field Kit. Step 2: Go online to our website to register the collection you wish to submit. Step 3: Record a veteran’s story using an audio or video recorder; assist in collecting photographs, letters, diaries, maps, etc.; and/or help write a memoir. Step 4: Complete the required and appropriate forms (including biographical data, audio and video log, and release forms) at www.loc. gov/vets or from the Field Kit. Assemble the forms and the items you are submitting. Step 5: VHP only accepts original materials. Please make copies of all materials you wish to keep for yourself. Please provide the veteran with a copy of the interview. VHP does not have the resources to provide copies of any donated materials. Everything you submit to VHP will become property of the Library of Congress and cannot be returned.
2.
3.
4.
the Library of Congress system. Visit www.loc. gov/vets/kitmenu.html for all necessary forms for submitting to the Veterans History Project Get a digital or tape recorder. You may also want to consider videotaping in addition to the recording. Prepare a script of questions. Sample questions are available at: www.history.com/ minisites/veterans/images/ veteransoralhistory.pdf Teachers will want to remind students of appropriate and inappropriate questions before they start their interviews Contact local veterans organizations such as American Legion or Veterans of Foreign War to help find veterans to interview, or ask a family member or friend with military experience if they would be willing to be interviewed. Select a “friendly or familiar face” to interview first to ensure a positive experience while
5.
6.
7.
students are still learning. Save your digital recording to a computer and/or digitize your tape using software like PolderbitS and save once the interview is complete (if your tape breaks you will have the audio file for back-up). Transcribe the recording. This can be done from the digital recording on your computer or by listen to a cassette tape or a CD. This may take a very long time –stopping, rewinding and replaying for greater understanding can take many hours. b. While transcribing, Google any names you cannot understand, or places that you are not familiar with. This will help ensure a correct document. Verify name spellings before finalizing and submitting them to Library of Congress. c. Write on notebook paper first and save all of these drafts. Multiple drafts can be useful. Type the written document and save the file. Try to establish a standard format
to use on all transcripts. If possible have the veteran look over transcript. Ask the veteran, a family member, or friend only to correct names and places, not rewrite the document. 9. When transcription is complete, follow the Library of Congress guidelines for submission at www.loc. gov/vets/mailingaddress. html 10. The HISTORY™ take a Veteran to School Day site has additional tips and resources for this project at www.veterans.com. 8.
Newspaper Activity: Over a period of time, or through research at the library or online, locate an article about Veterans Day or an important veteran or military unit in history. Write up a short essay or prepare a poster-board about that veteran or unit and include relevant dates and facts such as which branch of the military they represented, where the veteran or group was stationed and any honors or decorations they received.
Ten Tips for Getting Started on a Veterans Oral History Project By Paul LaRue, Teacher, Washington High School, Washington Court House, OH (modified) 1. Visit the Library of Congress Veterans History Project website: www.loc.gov/vets/. This website includes all of the background information and materials necessary to have the oral histories you record entered into
FROM A NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT TO THE WASHINGTON POST
&
FIRE DEPARTMENT
EMS
“My heros are those who risk their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place - police, firefighters, and members of our armed forces.” -Sidney Sheldon
Lawrenceburg Fire Department and EMS would like to express our gratitude to our armed forces for their services, protection, and support of this great nation. 300 W. Tate Street Lawrenceburg, IN (812) 537-1509
8 - Veterans Day Salute
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
WW II vet told one mechanic worth 10 pilots Chandra L. Mattingly Staff Reporter cmattingly@registerpublications.com
Some of what Chief Master Sergeant William R. Ruehrwein remembers from his military service remains classified. Now 92, the Lawrenceburg resident worked as an aircraft mechanic, test pilot and in logistics as a non-commissioned officer during two wars and the Korean War. Only once did he go on a bombing mission, in World War II, during which he got a “little nick” from enemy fire. He was wearing a flak vest, so no further damage was done. But he got no official recognition of his injury. “I couldn’t put in for that because I wasn’t supposed to be there,” said Ruehrwein. Qualified years before as a crew chief, he went on the run because the regular crew chief “had celebrated too much.” “I took his place. We bombed into southern France. That was just before the (Normandy) invasion,” he said. The Allies were hitting the German fuel dumps so the Germans wouldn’t have the fuel to get their tanks to Normandy, he explained. Safely back on the ground, Ruehrwein was chewed out by his commanding officer, who said, “A good mechanic on the ground is worth 10 up in the air.” “I told him he didn’t need to worry. I’d had my thrill,” said Ruehrwein. With 10 men in his crew, he worked 10-hour days, his crew responsible for inspecting every plane that came through the base, he said. As a crew chief, Ruehrwein not only worked on
aircraft but flew on them Force Base in Greenland. at his many postings after “We did air rescue,” said he enlisted in September Ruehrwein. If an aircraft 1942, first working on went down on the ice cap, B-25s and B-24s while at his unit was responsible Rosecrans Field in for the resSt. Joseph, Mo. cue. They His first overhad triphiseas post was to bian caCasablanca in pabilities, French Morocwith three co, Africa. There different he worked on aircraft C-47s and C-54s including - “Those were the two heliones I flew on” copters, and even B-29s to land on toward the end of land, water the war. or snow. In Later he was as- William R. Ruehrwein the year he signed to Cairo, was there, Egypt, having vissix months ited or been assigned to of light, six months of numerous other bases, he dark, there were three such said. rescues, he said. Other bases followed, then came the Cuban crisis, during which he was assigned “On the way to Cairo we to Moron Air Force Base in flew over old battlefields Moron, Spain. with rusted tanks and other “We had B-52s flying gear. Then we flew along off the coast of Russia with the Mediterranean Sea. nuclear weapons on board,” There were German air- said Ruehrwein. His job was craft visible in the water,” seeing that the bombers were he said. refueled by the KC135 tankMeanwhile, Ruehrwein ers for their flights back to had been promoted to a the States. staff sergeant, and, after “Like I say, (President) returning to the United Kennedy was ready. If RusStates, was discharged in sian had done anything, we’d December 1945, he said. probably have a lot more In March 1946, he joined people gone,” said Ruehran active Air Force Re- wein. serve unit, which was acIn June 1968, he was transtivated in April 1951, after ferred to Guam, from which the start of the Korean War B-52s would be launched in June 1950. His duties for an 11- to 12-hour flight basically were as a line to Vietnam. The bombers chief, doing a lot of sched- would drop their bombs, then uling and planning, while continue to Thailand to be stationed at Hunger Field checked and re-armed for the in Savannah, Ga., he said. next day’s mission. He handled and serviced As a logistics officer, numerous aircraft, propel- Ruehrwein helped plan the ler and jet engine fighters, recovery of B-52s and other and loaded and unloaded bombers after bombing runs, atomic bombs on the C124, plans which dealt with bases he said. He flew all over in various countries such the United States, was pro- as Saudi Arabia and Africa. moted to master sergeant, Much of the work was clasthen was sent to Thule Air sified.
Battle remains
In December 1968 he was promoted to chief master sergeant and the following year, in 1970, was deployed to Danang, Vietnam. As a non-commissioned officer, he was in charge of field maintenance and keeping the aircraft flying. “They needed somebody who knew something about the C-47s,” he said. “They were special aircraft. The electric gear on the airplane was worth $3 million and the aircraft worth about $200,000.” Even today, the gear used remains classified, he added.
‘Higher than top secret’
Toward the end of his military career, Ruehrwein was called to Barksdale, La., when the logistics non-
commissioned Officer of the Second Air Force Headquarters retired. Ruehrwein was the only qualified man available with the required security clearance, he said. “My clearance I had was higher than top secret,” he said. His responsibilities included the recording and destruction of classified material. “Working in higher headquarters and on war plans was very important. … Some of them are still classified so I can’t discuss them,” he said, explaining that work probably was most rewarding of his career. Ruehrwein retired in August 1975 after 27 ½ years of active duty and five years active reserves. His military decorations and awards include the Bronze
Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation, Army Air Corps and Air Force Good Conduct medals, WW II Victory Medal, National Defense and Vietnam Service Medal, among others. Married to Georgia Hunefeld, in December 1943, he often was joined by his family throughout his career. The couple had six children, but lost a daughter to cancer when he was posted at Hunter AFB. Their children include Bill Ruehrwein Jr., a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force, Statesville, N.C; Steven Ruehrwein, Omaha, Neb.; Susan Wendell and Sharon Strzynski, Cincinnati; and Rose Von Holle, Lawrenceburg. They have 11 grandkids and two greatgrandchildren.
A SALUTE TO OUR
VETERANS Devries -from-
Funeral Home
12887 Lenover Street • Dillsboro, IN
812-432-5480
www.devriesfuneralhome.com
“ I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it.” ~Thomas Jefferson
Ivy Tech Community College would like too thank our past and present veterans for defending our freedom; these men and women make it possible for us to continue to realize our potential, and follow our dreams
Complimentary Dinner for all
Ohio County Veterans Sunday • November 11th Special Veterans Day Service • 12PM Meal • 1PM Rising Sun Legion 110 Main Street • Rising Sun 812-438-3688 RSVP Encouraged
Serving Daily Lunch Specials Monday - Saturday • 8am - 11pm Sunday • 11am - 8pm “We are always looking for new members”
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
Veterans Day Salute - 9
DOWN MEMORY LANE
May we never know war as Edna and Hilda Our bingo game had finished and we began to visit for a while. Soon the subject turned to how it was when we grew up. Edna began talking in her soft English accent. Suddenly, all was quiet. Born in 1935, she explained that she was a child in England during World War II. Edna shared that when the sirens would announce an air raid, her family would head for shelter built in their back yard. Her school also had shelter. Although the bombs never destroyed anything near her home, she could see the flames made by the phosherus bombs dropped on the far-off cities. One did take out the back end of her grandmother’s home that was a distance away. She continued to live in what was left of the house. When she visited, Edna was not allowed to play in the ruble. Her father, who lost six brothers in the war, did not have to go. He had the assignment of seeing after the welfare of those in their community. Edna clearly remembers there was a great celebration when the war was over. She later came to the U.S. when she had the opportunity because she knew England would take long to recover. And there I sat with my childhood recollections of make-believe war games played with my imaginary playmate Mert, totally innocent of what war was really like. My father was too old for the service, (Ray and our son’s service age fell in peace time.) Edna’s recollections of her childhood in war torn England stayed with me, so when I heard of Hilda, whose childhood was spent in Germany during the war, I asked her to share her story of how it was. When we met the first thing, she shared a
group of photos from her youth. One I chose to share with you. Hilda, third from the right, is with her sister and brothers. Children of war, I call them. Like Edna’s experiences, Hilda, born in 1931, shared the sirens, the DORIS shelter runs and fiery nighttime views. BUTT She was not in a target area; however, the planes bombing the cities would sometimes drop their left over bombs at random. Hilda’s father was called to the service early because he was educated and they were called first. He left her mother to care for four small children. He would return 10 days in a seven year period. Part of that time he was a prisoner of war. She has great praises for her mother, who managed to give them a quality life under the circumstances. When the war was over and the Americans came through, not knowing what they would do her family hid in the cellar on piles of potatoes. Peeking through a tiny window, Hilda remembers seeing the first black person she had ever seen among the soldiers going by. They soon learned that the Americans were kind to them. Her younger sister had beautiful curls and a pretty face. The soldiers would load her pockets with candy and liked to have their picture taken with her. After the war Hilda studied English and became an interpreter. She came to the US when she married an American soldier. Neither played war games, as I did, during that time. They just lived what they thought was a normal life. The horrors of war were just the way it was. There was no time to talk of hate. During the European conquest in WW II some 13 countries were invaded….while I played my little war games. And now I have lived some 77 years without the fear of bomb raids, foreign invasion or the
FROM A NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT TO THE WASHINGTON POST
COURAGE. SACRIFICE. DEDICATION. HONOR.
We salute those who have served, and those who presently serve, for their courage and dedication to a strong and free America. Thank you for protecting our citizens and our country.
126 W. High Street • Lawrenceburg
812-537-0063
www.RegisterPublications.com
Doris Butt's aquaintance Hilda let her copy this cherished photo of her and her siblings from their childhood in World War II Germany. Butt counts her blessings as a child in America, and that today's children do not have to know war the way Hilda did. poverty that war can bring. And there is a reason for my peaceful years, the protection from our military. It came at a great price. We lost 419,800 of the 16,000,000 soldiers in WW II. However, when you total civilian deaths, some little boys and girls, from strategic bombing, including Holocaust victims (5 to 7 million), Japanese war crimes, forced shifts in population, and those related to famine and disease varied estimates from 37 to 54 million, add total military deaths and 2.5 percent of the world’s population was lost. Afterward there was the Korean War, the long years of the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War all taking their toll of lives, both military and civilian. With our nearly 8,000 deaths in Iraq and
Afghanistan, an estimated 132,000 civilians have lost their lives. And we must not forget the wounded, both physically and mentally. Figures change quickly, but in my findings we now have approximately 1,445,000 are actively serving in our armed services today. They serve in 830 installations in at least 150 countries. Add another 833,000 in the reserve and guard that are ready to go. Our military budget is $550 billion. Our military is responsible for peace in the world, near and far, and the well-being of its people. So today our children are safe as they laugh and play. No sirens, no bombs, no fear of invasion. We must always be thankful to those that protect them.
10 - Veterans Day Salute
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
DUTY CALLS Steven Lovins
Pvt. 2 Steven Kyle Lovins, a 2010 graduate of South Dearborn High School, is currently serving in the U.S. Army as an Aircraft and Systems Repairer. He completed Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia in July. He continued and completed AIT training at Fort EuSteven Lovins stis, Virginia in October. The Aviation Branch shapes the student soldiers into members through the lessons of Aviation Safety, Army Values, Warrior Tasks, Battle Drills and a Solid Physical training program to continue to be “Above the Best”. He is the son of Steven and Heidi Lovins and brother to Amanda and Sarah Lovins of Aurora, formerly of Harrison. His family wants to wish him Best of luck!
Derek Birkenheuer
On the 16th day of July, 2012, Derek Birkenheuer was presented the appointment of Petty Officer by Jeffrey S. Ruth, Captain, U.S. Navy, Commanding Officer. HT3 Birkenheuer’s appointment as a petty officer in the United States Navy makes him heir to a long and proud tradition of Naval leadership. By accepting this appointment, HT3 Birkenheuer is charged with demonstrating those standards of performance, moral courage, and dedication to the Navy and the Nation which may serve as an enviable example of his fellow Navy men and women. HT3 Birkenheuer’s desire to excel and to guide others must be boundless; his appearance must be a model for others and his performance must be a continual reflection of his sincerity, attention to duty, and moral responsibility. By exhibiting unfailing trust and obedience toward superi-
ors, cooperation and loyalty to his peers, and understanding and strength to his subordinates, he will contribute greatly to the effectiveness and good name of the United States Navy. Birkenheuer is the son of Dawn and Mike Birkenheuer, Bright, and the fiance of Ashley Helton, Harrison.
Alex Leurck
Navy Seaman Apprentice Alex M. Leurck, son of Danielle R. Barret of Brookville, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Leurck completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. The capstone event of boot camp is “Battle Stations”. This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. “Battle Stations” is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly ‘’Navy’’ flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a Sailor. Leurck is the brother of Dyllan A. Leurck also of Cincinnati. He is a 2011 graduate of East Central High School.
Madison Belzer
Air Force Airman Madison E. Belzer graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare
principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Belzer is the daughter of Patrick Belzer of Fairfield, Ohio, and Michelle Becker of Brookville. She is a 2011 graduate of East Central High School.
Aaron Jaeger
Navy Seaman Aaron T. Jaeger, son of Kandi S. and Steve Jaeger, Harrison, recently cmpleted U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Jaeger completed classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, Aaron Jaeger and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was placed on physical fitness. Battle Stations, the capstone event of boot camp, gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. Battle Stations galvanizes the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through basic Navy skills and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Its distinctly Navy flavor is designed to take into account what it means to be a sailor. Jaeger is a 2012 graduate of Harrison High School.
gram, Jensen completed classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was placed on physical fitness. Battle Stations, the capstone event of boot camp, gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. Battle Stations galvanizes the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through basic Navy skills and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Its distinctly Navy flavor is designed to take into account what it means to be a sailor. Jensen is a 2012 graduate of Lawrenceburg High School.
Broyles, daughter of Cheryl and Greg Broyles of Cleves, Ohio, earned the title of United States Marine after graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. For 13 weeks, Broyles stayed committed during some of the world’s most demanding entry-level military training in order to be transformed from civilian to Marine instilled with pride, discipline and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. One week prior to graduation, Broyles endured The Crucible, a 54-hour final test of recruits’ minds and bodies. Upon completion, recruits are presented the Marine Corps emblem and called Marines for the first time. Broyles is a 2010 graduate of Taylor High School .
Christina Broyles
Katherine Jackson
Marine Corps Pfc. Christina J.
Family is why we do it all. Danette Volpenhein, Agent 451 Bielby Road Lawrenceburg, IN 47025 Bus: 812-577-0765 insurance@danettevolpenhein.com
Samantha Jensen
Navy Airman Recruit Samantha L. Jensen, daughter of Bradley A. and stepdaughter of Vonda J. Jensen, Lawrenceburg, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week pro-
Honoring
Veterans
Our
They’ve served our country with courage and honor. They’ve left behind loved ones to risk their lives in protecting our country. They’ve defended our freedoms and ideals. They make us proud to be
Americans.
Wishing all of our veterans and soldiers a very happy Veterans Day. Mayor Dennis Carr • City Council Redevelopment - Grant Hughes Clerk Treasurer - Jackie Stutz Director of Utilities - Mel Davis
Navy Seaman Katherine M.
Jackson, daughter of Shirly R. and Tom E. Jackson of Cleves, was recently promoted to her current rank upon graduation from recruit training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. Jackson received the early promotion for outstanding performance during all phases of the training cycle. The capstone event of boot camp is “Battle Stations.” This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. “Battle Stations” is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly “Navy” flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a sailor. Jackson is a 2011 graduate of Taylor High School.
We all feel the same commitment to care for our families. Helping you meet your insurance needs is part of my commitment to you. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY. ®
0907504.1
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
Veterans Day Salute - 11
We Celebrate Our Country We Celebrate Our Freedom We Celebrate You On this day, and each day forward, while you protect our precious freedom, we ask God to bless you and keep you safe.
Thank You for your Gift of Courage The City Of Aurora, Mayor Donnie Hastings, Jr. Main Street Aurora • Aurora Utilities • Indiana 811
12 - Veterans Day Salute
The Harrison Press, November 7, 2012; The Dearborn County Register, Rising Sun Recorder/News, November 8, 2012
“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” -Elmer Davis
Thank You, Veterans. City of Rising Sun, Mayor Branden Roeder Clerk Treasurer, Rae Baker Gipson Rising Sun City Council • Rising Sun Municipal Utilities Rising Sun Community Foundation • Historic Downtown Main Street