2020 Veterans' Banners

November 2020

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

CRAIG BERNHARDT Mechanic Apprentice U.S. National Guard

KEITH MCLAUGHLIN Senior System Operator U.S. Navy

GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SERVICE Service is our mission, and we thank veterans and those on active duty for their dedication, including our PUD veterans who’ve served.

We’re closed in honor of the holiday on Wednesday, Nov. 11, but you can call us 24/7 to report power outages and other emergencies at (877) 783-8123.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

CONTENTS

Proud to Support Our Veterans and Their Families.

T hank you.

Wenatchee Downtown Association ............................................. 5 Letter from Jerrilea Crawford, mayor of East Wenatchee ................. 6 Letter from Frank Kuntz, mayor of Wenatchee ........................... 7 Letter from James N. Mattis, General U.S. Army, Ret. ..................... 8 Monica Allen ................................................ 9 Robert “Bob” Ashford ............................. 10 Carol Sue Barrier ...................................... 10 Louis J. Barrier ............................................ 11 Jay Bean ......................................................... 11 Tyrone J. Beal ............................................ 66 Daniel Beattiger ........................................ 12 Dan Bertrand .............................................. 12 Thomas “Allen” Biddle ........................... 13 Verg Bloomquist ....................................... 13 Robert “Bob” Boyd ................................... 14 Duane Broaddus ....................................... 14 Richard “Dick” Bruggman .................... 15 Brant Bruno ................................................ 16 Ronald “Ron” Bruno ................................ 16 Jerry D. Compton ..................................... 17 Jacob D. Creiglow .................................... 40 Curtis Danielson ....................................... 17 Bob Derry .................................................... 18 Roy Byron Dickinson .............................. 18 Marion Dixon ............................................. 19 Terry England ............................................ 19 James “Pat” Ferguson ............................. 20 Donald A. Flick .......................................... 21 Lester O. Foltz ........................................... 20 Harvey Gjesdal ......................................... 22 George Goodwin ..................................... 22 Jerry Gutzwiler ......................................... 24 Norm Gutzwiler ....................................... 24 Anton Harle ................................................ 25 Jerry L. Harlow .......................................... 23 Court Haugen ........................................... 66 Eric Hedeen ............................................... 22 Gerald “Jerry” Hedeen .......................... 26 Lynn Heminger ......................................... 26 Robert Hensel ........................................... 27 Earl Wesley Hensley Jr. ......................... 27 Mathew Hepner ....................................... 28 Brad Hersel ................................................ 28 Marvin Hersel ........................................... 29 Eugene L. Hill ............................................ 29 J. Colin Hill ................................................. 30 Robert Hughes .......................................... 30 Leandro “Lando” Jasso ........................... 31 Leroy Johnston .......................................... 32 Raymond Johnston .................................. 32 Donald Jones .............................................. 33

Special publication confluencehealth.org

Map of banners’ locations ............... 34-35 Robert H. Knieling .................................. 36 Cherie Knudsen ....................................... 36 John Knudsen ............................................. 37 Curt Lance ................................................... 37 J. Wendall Lance ....................................... 38 Howard Lane ............................................. 38 Charles Lawhead ...................................... 39 Jerry A. Lawrence .................................... 40 Richard Leonard ...................................... 42 Maria G. Luberts ...................................... 42 Kevin C. Lohse ........................................... 41 Brianna M. Lohse ...................................... 41 Charles Ludwig ........................................ 43 Jim Lynch .................................................... 43 Joshua R. McAlvey .................................. 44 Loren W. McCandlish ............................ 44 Ralph “Allen” McFarling ....................... 66 Win McLaughlin ....................................... 45 Fred W. Munson ........................................ 45 George B. Nelson ..................................... 46 Cirgil New Sr. ............................................ 46 Ronald O’Neal ........................................... 47 Richard Penhallegon .............................. 48 Richard Perkins ........................................ 48 Billie R. Philley ......................................... 50 Barry Port ................................................... 49 Don L. Rasmussen ................................... 50 Harley V Buddy Reed ............................. 51 Greg Reider ................................................. 51 Edgar A. Reinfeld Jr. ................................. 52 Loren Richard ............................................ 52 Richard Robert .......................................... 53 William P. Rust .......................................... 53 Robert “Sal” Salcido ................................ 55 Kenneth Sandhop ..................................... 56 Andrew Sandoval .................................... 54 Donald Sangster ........................................ 56 Dr. Gene Sharratt ...................................... 57 Guy Sharratt ............................................... 57 Daniel Simmons ........................................ 58 Thomas Lee Snell ..................................... 58 Robert E. Snyder ....................................... 59 John R. Speidel .......................................... 59 Lester G. Spurling .................................... 60 AA Stevens ................................................. 60 Gene Stevens .............................................. 61 Dick Ward ................................................... 62 John M. Wasniewski ............................... 62 Ronald E. Wheeler Sr. ............................ 63 Roland Sandy Wheeler Jr. .................... 63 William D. Wilson ................................... 64 John Wolffe ................................................ 64 Wenatchee veterans’ resources .............................................. 66

Publisher: Sean Flaherty, 509-664-7136, flaherty@wenatcheeworld.com Advertising Sales Manager: AnnMarie Morris 509-661-6377, annmarie@wenatcheeworld.com Design: Ken Barnedt

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

HONORING OUR HEROES WITH VETERANS BANNERS Linda Haglund Executive director, Wenatchee Downtown Association

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OW … 2020. I have to be honest, in March when the direction came to “stay home and stay healthy” due to this COVID-19 threat, I had no idea I would be typing this letter in October referencing the impacts. As this year has progressed, it was more and more apparent that NOTHING felt normal nor could anything be done as we NORMALLY did. I will say, however, that even in this unique year we have heroes that stepped up to make this tradition a reality, despite the times. u The Wenatchee World. Compiling this booklet takes great effort on their part, further exemplifying the longstanding tradition and track record of generosity and heart towards this community. u Precision Waterjet and Plumb Perfect. Both businesses AGAIN stepped up this year to help offset the price of the banners for the families who want to honor their heroes. 78 of the 100 banners hanging were supported by these two businesses. u NCW Vets Serving Vets “The Bunker” was again, instrumental in helping us gather the pictures and stories. George Turner, makes ALL the difference in the world and we could have never done this in this challenging year without him. u GO USA and specifically Kyle Barns for

taking challenging pictures and making them look AMAZING on banners. u Finally, General Mattis. I reached out on a whim and true to the General, when duty called, he answered. He submitted the preface for this booklet.

For three years now, my life has been touched by the stories of the heroes among us. I still go back to a very impactful moment last year when a Vietnam hero standing in my office told me that this project represents to him “a long overdue welcome home.”

I tear up today writing about it.

As always, I would like to thank our heroes for allowing their stories to be told. Without their compassion and dedication to our country to serve, there would be no stories. This project has become larger than even I hoped and dreamed it could be.

At times, it has been a struggle. As the numbers increased, I worried that it could all get done on time. Then I took encouragement from a quote from Abraham Lincoln: “The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just.”

For more information on how to honor your heroes, call us at 509 662-0059 or email linda@ wendowntown.org.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LETTER FROM

THE MAYOR OF EAST WENATCHEE

“W Jerrilea Crawford East Wenatchee, Mayor

e don’t know them all but we owe them all.”

Therefor, each November we pay tribute to our heroes, the men and women who have sacrificed so much to serve and protect our country.

To show our respect and appreciation we honor our local military veterans by displaying banners in our community. Pictures and stories are on display for us to celebrate throughout the month of November, but our gratitude will last forever.

Their service to our country is selfless and eternal. I hope that we all take a moment to reflect on their bravery and sacrifices and extend our deepest gratitude to them for their commitment and dedication.

Thank you to all our community’s veterans and their families!

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LETTER FROM

THE MAYOR OF WENATCHEE

N Frank J. Kuntz Wenatchee mayor

ovember 11 is a special day for our city. It is a day to celebrate our military veterans for the many sacrifices they have endured for this great nation.

Here in the Wenatchee Valley, we proudly honor our veterans during the month of November in our downtowns with banners showcasing some of our local heroes. I hope that you’ll join me in walking our community and acknowledging the faces, names and stories of these brave women and men.

I would like to personally thank our veterans on behalf of the City of Wenatchee for your service, we are indebted to you and your families. Happy Veterans Day.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LETTER FROM

RETIRED ARMY GENERAL JAMES N. MATTIS

I James N. Mattis General United States Army, Ret.

am humbled to have been considered to participate in Wenatchee’s tradition of honoring our veterans and active service members.

I grew up just a couple hours south of your great city in Richland and have driven down along Mission Avenue on many occasions.

This November, as we honor our heroes with community banners and share their stories in our local papers, we must keep in our minds the brave men and women of our nation who — above all else — believed in and fought for a set of ideals in support of this great big experiment we call America.

We too often take our freedom for granted, and we sometimes also take for granted those who have vowed to protect and defend our constitution and our way of life. For generations, our soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen have sworn to do so at their personal peril — signing a blank check to all American people, payable with their lives.

Military service requires a special kind of sacrifice. For the time you spend in uniform, the interests of our nation must always come first.

The men and women celebrated in the streets of Wenatchee and East Wenatchee have made the choice to favor and pursue their patriotic duties. It is because of these choices that our country still stands, our great experiment, and that nations around the world now know the

blessings of freedom.

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson said when talking about soldiers killed in combat, “there is no immortality that is safer than theirs.” I encourage all Americans to honor those who have given their lives for our freedom, as well as those who are serving in the cause today. We must keep them in our minds not only while these banners remain raised, but on each following occasion in which we are fortunate enough to enjoy a peaceful day in the Columbia Basin.

While we continue to maintain social distance this year, nothing can truly detract from our sense of community as we celebrate our veterans and their families. As we learn about their stories and their contributions as citizens of Wenatchee as patriots acting in service to the United States of America, we must honor these heroes by remaining a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

I am grateful to Ms. Haglund for reaching out, as well as the entire Wenatchee Downtown Association, the Vets Serving Vets organization, and The Wenatchee World for their commitment to our communities and to honoring our most deserving fellow citizens.

Sincerely, your neighbor,

General James N. Mattis (Ret.)

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

MAJ. MONICA I. ALLEN U.S. Army 2003–present

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onica was born in Wenatchee and graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1999. She enlisted in the Army in 2003 and first served as a Black Hawk Crew Chief with the 82nd CAB at Fort Bragg. After reaching the rank of Sergeant she Direct Commissioned into the Medical Service Corps in 2008. Monica then served as an Executive Officer in 232nd MED BN at Joint Base San Antonio.

From June 2009 to April 2013, Monica was assigned to 4IBCT at Fort Carson. Her duty assignments included Medical Operation Officer, Platoon Leader in 704 BSB, Female Engagement Team Officer in Charge and Assistant Operations Officer in 2-12 IN. In May 2013 she transferred to 438 MD (VSS) where she served as the Executive Officer from May 2013 to December 2013. Monica then served as Company Commander for Evans Army Community Hospital from January 2014 to November 2015. From January 2016 to May 2019 she served as a Medical Planner with Allied Rapid Reaction Corps at Imjin Barracks in

Screaming Octopus would like to say Thank You to all of our Military Veterans.

Gloucestershire, England.

Monica has served on three deployments to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. She recently completed Command and General Staff College and is currently serving as the Support Operations Officer (SPO) with 56th MMB at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Monica earned an Associate’s Degree in Arts and Sciences from WVC in 2001, a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences from WOU in 2003, and a Master’s in Administration from CMU in 2020. Some of her awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (1OLC), Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal (4OLC), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal (3OLC), the Combat Medical Badge, Army Aviation Crewman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.

Monica’s story was proudly submitted by her Uncle Will Allen.

Thank you.

No matter where or when you served, you’ve always been there for us. It’s your personal sacrifice and patriotism that keeps our country great. And for that, we can never thank you enough.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

ROBERT ‘BOB’ ASHFORD U.S. Marines Corps 1966–1968

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ob was born in Los Angeles, California and after graduation received an apprenticeship in a machine shop at an arsenal in Southern California.

He was drafted in 1965. He went into the Marine Corps in January 1966. He was MCRD San Diego, California, ITR Camp Pendleton, Engineers School at Camp Lejeune. Served in the 5th Division and served as a construction foreman with the rank of Corporal at Camp Pendleton.

He is clear that he was not a volunteer but was drafted and a non-combat veteran. He states “that bothered me for 40 years. It was guilt. Think about this — a Marine in 1966 that stayed stateside and did not go to Vietnam. I know there are other vets out there that feel the same way as I did for not putting boots on the ground. It took the Marine Corps League, The Bunker, and CVI to let me know that not only am I a vet, but a lucky one.”

He married his wife Jan in 1972 and is one

of the for founders of NCW Vets Serving Vets (The Bunker).

He became Commandant of the Marine Corps League Detachment 806 in Wenatchee.

He was on the Advisory Board for the City of Wenatchee representing the Veterans Hall. You will find him hosting All Veterans Coffee Break and co-chairing Operation Santa Claus with Doug Heimbignar and Steve Hamton. He and Steve also oversee the stuff animal toss at the Wenatchee Wild Game. He works with Combat Vets International every year for the Flag Retirement Program at Veterans Hall. He also is involved with the Laying of Wreaths Across America every December.

In his words: “After all is said and done, I am a proud Marine and would not have it any other way.”

Bob’s story was proudly supported by NCW Appraisal.

CAROL SUE BARRIER

U.S. Navy and Army 1956–1998

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arol was born in South Dakota and arrived in Wenatchee when she was three. She graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1956. She had a partial scholarship to Gonzaga University and Sacred Heart Nursing School. Her family was unable to help her with finances so she gave up the scholarship. She worked at Dusty’s Drive In, did typing for KPQ Radio and worked at St. Anthony’s Hospital kitchen all while going to High School. She thought that there had to be more in life than working at St. Anthony’s. She was right. Carol was only 17 but soon to be 18 and decided to join the Navy. She had to have her parents signature to join. Her parents were surprised with her choice, but they signed her paperwork and gave her their blessing. Her adventure now started.

Carol went from there to Bainbridge MD for boot camp and Hospital Corps School. She was able to choose her next duty station and thought California sounded good. She choose Oakland Naval Hospital.

She enjoyed meeting people as well as helping the patients in the hospital. There she met one special person, her husband while he was going to

advanced school on the base. To make the story short, they went on three dates and got married.

In those days you had to leave the military upon becoming pregnant, which happened three months after they married. She so missed the military, however after their girls graduated from High School, she joined the military again. This time it was the Army because they had the funds for a Reserves Unit. She drilled in Yakima to start with then was transferred to the 50th General Hospital in Seattle. Her unit was put on active status for Desert Shield/Storm. They were stationed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Military Hospital for the duration of the war.

Carol came back to her job at Wenatchee Valley Clinic (Radiology, MRI, CT) and continued with my reserves unit until she retired. Carol says; “All and all it took me 40 years to complete 20 years of service. My adventure was fulfilled, proving that you can do anything you put your mind to.” Carol and Lou continue to help veterans as well as help in their community. Carol is enjoying her retirement with her husband by her side and dog Rowdy in her lap.

Carol’s story was proudly supported by NCW Appraisal.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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LOUIS J. BARRIER, PHD U.S. Navy 1949–1978

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ouis was born in Manchester Mass in 1932. He was an athlete and President of his High School Class.

Louis joined the Navy in 1949. He went to Recruit Training, then Hospital Corps School, Field Medical Service School, Preventive Medicine School, Advanced Hospital Corps School and Navy Instructor School. He taught Basic Hospital Corps School and service in the 1st Marine Division as a Company Corpsman attached to the EOD. He served in Korea 1952 – 1953. Midway Island 1961-1964, 3rd Marine Amphibious Force Vietnam 1965-1966, USS Niagara Falls Southeast Asia Vietnam 1966-1969. Then finally stationed in San Diego until retirement in 1978.

Awards he received were: Navy Marine Corps Commendation with V for Valor. Navy Achievement Medal with V for Valor. Combat

Action Ribbon. 2 Awards Navy Good Conduct Medal. % Awards Presential Unit Citation and Navy Unit Citation.

While attending school at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Oakland, he met and married Carol Sue Wilson after just 3 dates. After retirement, he moved with his wife and two daughters to Wenatchee. He has worked in the Addiction Treatment field as a Therapist and taught for Eastern Washington University and Wenatchee Valley College. In his words: I now am retired enjoying life, studying Martial Arts-Soo Bahk Doo (Black Belt, teaching tiger tots, walking my dog Rowdy and spending quality time with my wife Carol of 61 years.

Louis’s story was proudly supported by NCW Appraisal.

JAY BEAN

U.S. Navy Commander 1947–1976

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ay Bean, Commander, USN (Ret.) began his naval career in 1947, enlisting in the reserves while attending Seattle’s Queen Anne High School. On graduation from Stanford University in 1952, he received his commission as Ensign, USN, and reported for duty aboard the USS O’Bannon (DDE 450), beginning his long naval career as a proud “tin can sailor” serving on destroyers.

Ensign Bean’s first job was as the O’Bannon’s Radiological Defense Officer in Operation Ivy, the first thermonuclear test off Eniwetok. The ship returned to escorting carrier task forces in combat air operations off the Korean Peninsula and Bean was soon made Assistant Engineering Officer. In 1955, when Lt. (j.g.) Bean was released from active duty, he was the O’Bannon’s Engineering Officer.

Lieutenant Bean was reappointed to the U.S. Navy Reserves and returned to Seattle. By 1959 he was serving on the USS Charles E. Brannon, (DE 446), Seattle’s Naval Reserve Training ship, as Senior Watch Officer, Operations Officer, Training Officer and Navigator.

By 1961 Lieutenant Bean was serving as the Brannon’s Executive Officer. The ship was mobilized during the Berlin Wall Crisis, was attached to the 1st Fleet and sailed to Pearl Harbor. Thinking they would serve the duration of their activation in Hawaii, most of the officers moved their families to Honolulu. But instead, after testing in which the Brannon was awarded the Battle Efficiency “E” Pennant, she was attached to the 7th Fleet and deployed to the west Pacific to patrol the coast of Vietnam.

In 1962 the Brannon was detached from active duty and Lieutenant Commander Bean and his family returned to Seattle.

Commander Bean served as Commanding Officer of the Brannon from 1965 until 1968 when he and his family moved to Wenatchee.

He served in Wenatchee’s Naval Reserve Surface division as the Leadership Training Officer and attended the Naval War College in Newport, RI. He retired from naval service in 1976.

Jay’s story was proudly submitted by the Jay Bean family.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

DANIEL BEATTIGER U.S. Army 1970–1993

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an was born on July 31, 1949 in Yakima Washington to Albert and Alice.

He was the second of 10 siblings.

His family moved to Wenatchee in the early 50’s when his dad wen to work for Alcoa. After graduating from Eastmont, Dan left the farm and worked in construction. In December of 1969 he joined the Army against the advice of some older friends who had been wounded in Vietnam. Dan was assigned to Fort Lewis for basic training and then to Fort Eustis for training as a helicopter repairman.

In August 1970, Dan was assigned to Vietnam and Charlie Company, 227 Assault Helicopter Bn of the 1st Calvary Division. After four months working in the maintenance hanger, his best friend Richard Perkins convinced him to volunteer for the flight platoon and become a Crew Chief of his own helicopter.

Dan and Richard went on R andR together to Australia and found it to be a “Most Excellent

Adventure.” On August 4th 1971 Dan and Richard left for the “Land of the Big PX” on the same “Freedom Bird.” Richard spend a couple of weeks with Dan and his family before heading to San Diego.

Dan was assigned to Fort Hood and Alfa Company, 1st Bn, 66th, Armor, 2nd Armore3d Division as a M-60A1 Tank Commander and spend the next 18 months there in the Heart of Texas.

Upon his return to East Wenatchee, Dan met and married his wife Penny. He went to work at Alcoa and had a son Aron.

After learning his buddy Richard was looking for work, Dan told him “come on up to God’s country,” and “oh by the way, I have joined a local National Guard unit and you will love it.”

Dan and Richard spend over 20 years in service.

Dan’s story was proudly made possible with the sponsorship from NCW Appraisal.

DAN BERTRAND

U.S. Marines 1951–1953

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an graduated from Okanogan High School in 1948. After a short stint with the U.S. Forest Service, Dan enlisted with the Marines in 1951. He served his country well in the Korean Conflict “War” until 1953 when he was honorably discharged. Dan rarely spoke of his service, but never wavered in his commitment to the Marine Corps or his country. He was a member of the Marine Corps League, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Probably the most important item Dan attended to before leaving for his deployment, was to marry his high school sweetheart, Claudine Webb.

Dan attended Wenatchee Valley Community College from, 1954-1955, where he received the nickname “crazy legs” while playing football.

He then attended WSU focusing on a Forestry Management degree.

Dan had a few jobs, including Chief of Police in Republic, Washington., security for Boeing in Moses Lake, and Alcoa Wenatchee Works. Dan worked for Alcoa for 32 years and was heavily involved with the Union. One of Dan’s proudest moments was to be named to the Board of Trustees for Wenatchee Valley College. He served on the board for a number of years both in Wenatchee and was instrumental in establishing the Omak Campus.

In his retirement Dan loved to fish, hunt and spend time with his wife at Jump Off Joe Lake north of Spokane.

Dan’s story was proudly submitted by Matt Bruggman supported by Plumb Perfect.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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THOMAS ‘ALLEN’ BIDDLE U.S. Army 1993–2011

T

homas “Allen” Biddle was an all-American boy, literally. He was born December 6, 1972, the son of an Air Force Sgt and lived across the USA. Allen was born at Homestead, AFB, Florida and his journey lead to Alaska, Oklahoma, Florida, Texas, Wyoming, California, South Dakota and graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1991. During his high school years he enjoyed football, joined the Civil Air Patrol and loved to ski and hike. He was a devoted brother to sister Melissa and brothers Christopher and David. I miss him everyday!

Al joined the Army as a Mechanized Infantryman in 1993.

Allen’s intelligence, competence and patriotism led him to the United States Army Special Forces Regiment where he was first assigned to A Company, 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in 2006 at Fort Carson, Colorado.

His talents were evident and before long he was selected as the Team Sergeant for Operational Detachment Alpha 0316.

There he served as a Special Forces Team Sergeant, deploying twice to Operation Iraqi Freedom, once to Operation Enduring Freedom and deployments to Qatar, Turkey and Kosovo. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, NATO medal for Kosovo, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Achievement Medal with

2 Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal with Silver Clasp with 1 knot, National Defense Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal with Bronze Star, Iraqi Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Special Forces Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Master Parachutist Badge and the Driver’s Badge. His Army education includes Special Forces Qualification Course, the Warrior Leaders Course, the Advanced Leaders Course, the Senior Leader Course, the SERE (High Risk) Course, the Psychological Operations Course, the Mechanized Infantry Course, Air borne Scholl, Jumpmaster Course and the Air Force Airlift Planners Course.

More significant than Allen’s military service was his love for family. He was a faithful and loving husband, praising his wife Lisa as the most Beautiful think in the world — Creation memories with her that will last forever. He was a dedicated and caring father to Jenna, Cameron, and Hailey. He loved them so much.* (This is from Allen’s Memorial Service Program) Allen died on his 39th birthday in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

A Foundation was started in his name three years after his death to assist families that lost their Veteran to PTSD/ Suicide. The Thomas A Biddle Foundation has assisted many families with a variety of needs after their loss.

Allen lived and graduated in Wenatchee therefore more people would recognize him in Wenatchee. However, I live in E. Wenatchee now. My first choice would be that his banner hang in Wenatchee but I would be just as honored if it was in E. Wenatchee.

Allen’s story is proudly submitted by his family.

VERG BLOOMQUIST U.S. Navy 1942–1945

A

“fish run” is what the three men crew of a TBM Avenger called a live attack bombing run against Japanese during WWII. As the radar operator, Verg Bloomquist helped locate and then guide the plane to the target. Verg survived this highly dangerous duty due to the skill of the pilot (Joe), gunner (Mike) and a lot of luck. He came home a ARM 1/c Aviation Radioman 1st Class, with 3 Air Medals and 2 Presidential Unit Citations and many a story.

Verg grew up mostly in Grand Lake, Colorado. He was having trouble finding a high school to attend. It being 1942, he knew he would soon be in the military. Taking his veteran fathers’ advice, he enlisted in the Navy.

The war effort was just getting organized. Verg

was sent to many locations for various training.

He finally ended at Alameda, California to join Torpedo Squadron Air Group 11. They trained in Hawaii for a period of time for this demanding job. They where eventually stationed on the carrier Hornet (CV-12). The adventures of this group were chronicled in the “Naval History” of August 2019.

Following military service, Verg found excellent employment with Dupont in Independence, Missouri. During vacations the Bloomquists ventured to Leavenworth, living in and working on a small house. Eventually they permanently moved there to enjoy their happy, well deserved retirement.

Verg’s story was proudly supported by NCW Appraisal.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

ROBERT ‘BOB’ BOYD U.S. Navy Reserves 1955–1963

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ob was born in Manson Washington in 1938, into a family of wheat farmers.

Boyd Road in Manson is named after his family. He played football for, and graduated from Chelan High School.

Bob joined the U.S. Navy Reserves in 1955 and served for eight years, earning an honorable discharge.

Bob chose a career as an orchardist, growing pears in Peshastin, WA and is still farming there today. He served 12 years as an elected Chelan County P.U.D. Commissioner for District 2.

Ever mindful of the sacrifice of U.S. Veterans,

Bob became involved with NCW Vets Serving Vets (The Bunker) based in Wenatchee. He has been instrumental in publicizing this local organization and in raising donations from the generous citizens and merchants of the Upper Valley. Through his and other veterans efforts, NCW Vets Serving Vets provides encouragement and material help for our brave veterans in their transition to civilian life.

Bob’s story was proudly submitted by a group of anonymous donors who did this to honor their friend.

DUANE BROADDUS

U.S. Marine Corps 1968–1972

D

uane L. Broaddus was born in Miles City, Montana in 1949. His father was born in 1876 and a member of a pioneer family which homesteaded in southeastern Montana, later becoming Broaddus, Montana.

In 1968, following high school graduation, Duane enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. He soon found himself in Vietnam. Being a ranch kid, he was experienced in heavy equipment operation and was assigned to 3rd Marines 11th Engineers as a combat engineer, MOS 1.45. Duane was stationed out of Dong Ha, in North Vietnam.

Most of Duane’s duties took place just below the DMZ operating a dozer, clearing perimeters, digging up enemy tunnels, running mine sweeps, and always, much, much more than expected in such places like L-Z Stud, Con Thein, Rock Pile, along the Cua Viet River and Khe Sahn. But the scariest of all was Charlie II, a fire support base so close to the DMZ, he could see enemy flags.

It was here that Duane was assigned to the 9th Marines (The Walking Dead). It was here that he learned about combat in a near-runover a few miles south in the Asha Valley at L-Z Stud. Saved

only by three Phantom jets skirting the perimeters with Napalm. Duane then went north to Khe Sahn and Charlie II, where incoming was an everyday thing. In 1969, his unit, the 9th Marines, were involved in Operation Dewey Canyon, crossing borders and chasing the bad guys and paying a huge price in casualties.

And, then it was over, so he thought. Coming home from Vietnam for Duane was as hard as being in Vietnam. Years of trying to out-run the “ghosts” that keep getting out of the closet.

Meeting his wife Corky and raising two children together while living at Lake Wenatchee for 40 years, saved his life. Traveling a long road and fighting for his benefits from Veterans Administration, Duane came up with an idea to start a thing called “Vets Serving Vets” and wanting to show other Veterans short-cuts through the VA Health Care system. Other Veterans became interested and they formed a Veteran run organization, “The Bunker”, that has now served over 1,000 North Central Washington Vets.

Duane’s story was proudly told by his wife Corky Broaddus and his entire family, who are proud of his hard work and dedication. Thank you for your service. Submitted by fellow Veteran Wes Hensley III.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

RICHARD ‘DICK’ BRUGGMAN U.S. Army 1957–1959

D

ick graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1957. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Army. He was placed into the Signal Corps and then transferred into cryptoanalysis. After completing his two years of services, he served four years in the Reserves.

Dick began work after his service with the U.S. Forest service, then a transition to Wells and Wade Hardware for 25 years. Dick then worked for American Silicon Technologies in Rock Island until his retirement.

Dick was raised in a family of 8 by a single mom whom immigrated from Europe. Family means everything to him as well as his country.

He has been happily married for 57 years, raising two boys. He loves fishing, hunting, and playing cards.

Thanks Dad for your service.

Dick’s story was proudly submitted by his son Matt supported by Plumb Perfect.

Charles Graves with Quilt of Valor made by our quilting club

Wenatchee Valley Senior Activity Center 1312 Maple Street • 662-7036 wenatcheeseniorcenter.com

Chelan & Douglas Counties

509.663.1710

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

BRANT BRUNO U.S. Army 1993–1997

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rant joined the Army right out of high school, and served from June 1993 to June 1997 and Reserves until 2001. He went to Basic Training at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina and his AIT was at Ft. Lee, Virginia. He served with the 406th GS CO at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, until May 1996, then served with the HHD 728th MP BN in Deagu, South Korea from May 1996 to June 1997. His reserve time was with 351 Ordinance Co in Martinsburg, West Virginia.

Brant has been serving as a defense contractor for the Air Force from 2003 to

present. He is married to Beth, and has two sons (Robbi and Logan), and a daughter (Sarah).

Brant and Beth have a Grandson (Kasen Boswell), who is their pride and joy! He and his family are living in Dayton, Ohio.

Brant’s son (Logan) is presently serving in the U.S. Army, at Ft. Wainwright, Fairbanks, Alaska as a Behavioral Health Specialists and will be going to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center next spring.

Brant’s story was proudly submitted by his parents Ron and Kathy Bruno.

RONALD ‘RON’ BRUNO

U.S. Marines and U.S. Army 1967–1981

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on first joined the Marine Corps in 1967, and spent his 18th birthday on an airplane headed to Vietnam. He did his duty while in Vietnam serving with the Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS 2). After serving his time in Vietnam, he was then discharged in 1970, and returned home to Great Falls, Montana. He then went to Bozeman, Montana where he met his wife Kathy. They married in 1972.

After being out of the military for three years and one day, Ron made the decision to go back into the military, but this time he went Army. He was out just long enough that he had to redo basic training. From basic, he was sent to Ft. Lewis for his AIT training and then assigned to the 3/5 Air Calvary Blues Platoon, 9th Infantry Division, after which he was sent to Schweinfurt, Germany, where he served with the 1/30th, 3rd Infantry Division, for two years. He was selected for Recruiting Duty, and returned back to the states and completed his recruiting training, then was assigned to

Wenatchee, from there he then spent some time in Okanogan, covering all of Okanogan County. His first born son (Brant) was born in Montana while Ron was waiting for his orders to Germany, and the other two boys (Greg and Lance) were born in Wenatchee, while Ron was on Recruiting Duty.

He was then sent to Fort Campbell, Kentucky to the 801st Maintenance Battalion, where he was promoted to SFC (E7) and assigned as the Battalion Operations Training NCOIC, 101th Airborne Division. From there Ron left the military and returned to Wenatchee.

Ron sold cars for Cascade Chevrolet for approximately three years, and then became a U.S. Postal carrier for 25 years. Ron was active with the Boy Scouts when his sons were younger and has been involved with Vets Serving Vets since 2010.

Ron’s story was proudly told by his wife Kathy and submitted by fellow Veteran, Wes Hensley III.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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JERRY D. COMPTON

U.S. Navy 1950–1954

J

erry enlisted in the Navy after graduating from Wenatchee High School in 1950. His enlistment papers show that from 1945-1950 he had worked after school, weekends and summers at Wells and Wade Hardware.

He completed aircraft mechanic training in Millington, TN and Pensacola, Florida that included hydraulics, fuel and instrument systems before being assigned to an aircraft carrier during the Korean Conflict. He loved the water and boating and talked very fondly of his time on the carrier.

After his honorable discharge in 1954 he used

his Aviation Machinist’s Mate Class A training working at Boeing in Seattle. He later moved back to Wenatchee where he married Charlene and raised his family. He was a huge supporter of the Wenatchee Youth Circus and loved putting on his clown face, costume and making people laugh.

He was a very patriotic man and would have been very honored to be included in this celebration of our veterans.

Jerry’s story was proudly submitted by his daughter Pam Compton Hamilton.

CURTIS DANIELSON U.S. Army 1988–1991

I

was born in Long Beach, California in 1969 to John and Janet Danielson. I have one older brother, Jon. Our family moved to East Wenatchee in 1978. Shortly after I graduated high school in 1987, I realized I wanted to go to college but couldn’t afford it. My brother was in the U.S. Air Force, and I knew about the GI Bill college money that could be earned by enlisting. However, the Army offered significantly more money and a shorter enlistment term. The catch? I had to join the infantry and serve two years and 14 weeks. We were at peace, so why not?

I entered infantry basic training in June of 1988, followed immediately by AIT and Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV) training, all at Fort Benning, Georgia.

After basic, I was assigned to A Company, 1/5 Cav, in the famed 1st Cavalry Division in Fort Hood, Texas. When I first got to Fort Hood, I was a BFV ‘dismount’, an infantryman who would ride in the back of the BFV and dismount the vehicle to provide infantry support. Before too long, I was promoted to driving the BFV. I took care of all aspects and maintenance of the hull and trained on combat driving of the BFV. Within a few month, I was promoted again to be the gunner, firing the 25mm cannon and TOW missiles.

Great fun. Training was nearly nonstop as we were in the field for nine months of the year honing our craft of soldiering. Part of that training was at the National Training Center in Barstow, California, where we had three weeks of intense desert training against Soviet

tactics. I made that trip two times in my two years. I was unaware at the time, but the training there foreshadowed things to come.

By July of 1990, my two years were up, so I cashed in my vacation and left the Army nearly two months early so I would be ready for fall classes at Wenatchee Valley College. Two weeks to the day I left active duty, Iraq invaded Kuwait, and the U.S. military began to mobilize.

Fast-forward 6 months to January 19, 1991. I was recalled along with 20,000 other reserves to serve in Desert Shield /Desert Storm. I reported to Fort Polk, Louisiana on January 31, 1991 to prepare to go to war. I was very fortunate to reunite with my former roommate from my Fort Hood days there. The next day we were bussed to Fort Benning. After about three weeks of training, we were shipped off to Hohenfels Germany where training continued and desert equipment was issued. While live fire training at Grafenwohr, I learned that the ground war had begun and it was a matter of time until we would be heading to Saudi Arabia. Four days later, the war was over and the Army did not know what to do with us. They decided to take those who wanted to go on a couple of bus tours of Bavaria. We saw Munich and the Neuschwanstein Castle on separate trips.

I left the Army again from Fort Jackson, South Carolina in March of 1991.

After the Army, I used all of my GI Bill money towards my education. I moved to the Seattle area in 1993. I married Sheila Wittgow in 1995 and we had a son, Cort in 2003. We moved back to East Wenatchee in 2007. I am currently working as the Building Superintendent at the Wenatchee Valley YMCA. Curt’s story was proudly submitted by the Wenatchee Valley YMCA.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

BOB DERRY

U.S. Navy 1943–1945

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ob was born on Sept. 4, 1925 in Wenatchee. He was raised here and graduated in 1943. After graduation he went to Wildland Firefighter school in Montana, and after the summer season was over, he enlisted into the military. He tried to enlist into the Coastguard, but was discovered that he was colorblind, so he enlisted into the Navy and became a Seabee for the 141st Naval Construction Battalion.

He served in Hawaii and in the Marshall Islands, where he helped construct airfield runways that allowed our planes to land and refuel, and he played trumpet in the Navy band.

After his discharge in 1945, he went back for another season of firefighting as a Smoke Jumper, and then was encouraged to attend college, where he met his wife at the University of Montana. They were soon married and moved back to Wenatchee, where Bob’s mother-in-law invested $5000 to but there first commercial restaurant. They purchased “The Sweet Shop” in East Wenatchee and changed

the name to “Bob’s Toughest Steaks in Town.”

Upon arriving back in East Wenatchee, Bob was a Volunteer Firefighter. After three or four years, a new position opened up in the Fire Department, and Bob became the Fire Chief of Douglas County, where he served for 30 years!

Not only was he fire Chief, but he was also part of the Search and Rescue team, scuba diving, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and more.

After the war, Bob became an adrenaline junkie and loved to compete. He raced motorcycles and won several trophies, he raced bikes competitively, and he participated in the Ridge To River Ironman race for 26 years.

Bob has been a member of the American Legion since he returned from the war, and he has been a member of Post #10 Wenatchee for more than 70 years, where he also served as the Post Bugler on the Honor Guard for several years.

A full life in service to his community!

Bob’s story was proudly submitted by fellow heroes at American Legion Post #10.

ROY BYRON DICKINSON

U.S. Army 1957–1979

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oy Byron Dickinson, known as Byron Dickinson, was born in Leavenworth, Washington, and raised at Lake Wenatchee. Byron, a natural athlete, began competitive skiing in high school.

He was awarded a full scholarship to Seattle University; his 1953/54 ski team was inducted into the Seattle University’s Hall of Fame.

He was invited to train with the U.S. Olympic team, but with a family to support, he instead decided to join the Army. Byron became an Army officer specializing in flying helicopters

and fixed wing airplanes. He served two tours of duty to Vietnam. After his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Army, Byron returned to Lake Wenatchee and became very active in the community.

He led the formation of the District 9 Fire Station at Lake Wenatchee, and was also instrumental in the creation of the Lake Wenatchee Water District. In both agencies, he continued to serve as a commissioner for many years.

Byron’s story is proudly submitted by his daughter, Sue Dickinson.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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MARION DIXON U.S. Army 1942–1945

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arion was born Oct. 15, 1909 at home on land homesteaded by his grandfather north of Almira, WA. for dry land wheat. Early years were spent tending small farm yard animals, usual farm chores, and attending a one-room school of 1-8th graders. After Marion’s father died young, he was needed to farm full-time and care for the remaining family. Farming wheat was done ‘by hand’ with a pair of mules, of which my dad (Marion) was very proud.

The great depression deepened, so any business or farm with bank loans suffered. Thinking their farm and home safe it came as terrible news to learn Marion’s father had previously co-signed on two neighboring farms and the bank was taking their farm too.

Marion (dad) and his younger brother then worked as farmhands to Waterville-Mansfield area farms for $1 a day.

Marion (dad’s) military enlistment began early spring, 1942, but in 1941-early ’42, dad and his brother were working Seattle shipyards to support their mother and themselves. Dad, believing the European conflict too remote and at age 32 too old, both “hired on” as shiphands bound for Alaska. Set to sail next day, mail was collected and boarding house vacated. Dad’s mail included his draft notice.

Dad would never speak to family of ‘war years’, (as many other war vets also) but to say he’d been in England, Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, and North Africa. If later an old WWII crony would stop by, war talk would end if family came in the house.

From pictures sent home to a sister, some were found of him and buddy “recruits” at a Camp Claibourne, Louisiana, 1942, a single picture from 1942 taken in England, and one from 1944 in Italy, both of dad in Army dress uniform. From a copy provided me via VFW Post 3617 of dad’s Enlistment Record branch of service was Army Corps of Engineers, Co. D, 344th Engineers, Grade Tech 5, (upon separation), being inducted 24 Apr 1942. and he departed England and other European destinations July 1942, and returning stateside by March 1945. He was authorized four bronze battle stars for Naples, Rome, Southern France, and Germany campaigns, a European-African-Middle East Campaign medal, a Good Conduct medal, and five overseas service bars.

Upon discharge dad had returned to the Waterville plateau, which is how he met my mother, Arlene Elliott from Wisconsin, on a bus from Waterville to Wenatchee. They were married April 1946 in Wisconsin, returning to Almira until 1952, moving to Wenatchee when Alcoa had hired its initial crews. Dad was almost 43 yrs. old.

To summarize, Dad worked until retiring from Alcoa, happy to grow prolific produce crops to share or sell as a hobby. He was a ‘master gardener’ before there was such a term, then pursued his newer passion of dahlia growing. He worked alongside Tony Derooy and others in forming a sanctioned Dahlia Society in this region to show and have judged local blooms, and then became an official Dahlia Society judge. Marion died in September 2003, with a Memorial Service held at the VFW, Post 3617.

Marion’s story is proudly submitted by his daughter Joy Weaver Truitt.

TERRI ENGLAND

U.S. Marine Corps 1971–1981

T

eri was born in Wenatchee to James and Joan Pruitt; the oldest of two daughters. She joined the Marine Corps in 1977 at 18 years old and was sent to MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina for boot camp. She had a brief assignment as a Recruiters Aid in Wenatchee where she met her husband Mike England, also a Marine. From there she went to Twentynine Palms, California for the Field Radio Operators Course. After training she was assigned to a ground unit as a Radio Operator at Marine Air Base 11, Marine Air Group 11, 3rd Marine Air Wing, Marine Corps Air Station, El Toro, California.

While there she was assigned as the Training NCO and Legal NCO, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

Upon completion of the military Teri and Mike lived in California before returning to the Northwest. She started her career at the Wenatchee Police Department 37 years ago as a Dispatcher and she is currently the Accreditation and Administration Coordinator.

Teri and Mike raised their daughter in Wenatchee and now enjoy time with their grandchildren Wyatt and Laine.

Teri’s story was proudly submitted by Frank Kuntz, CPA.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

JAMES ‘PAT’ FERGUSON

U.S. Army 1966–1986

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at was born in 1944 in Princeton, Indiana, the son of a career Army Air Corp/U.S. Air Force father. At two years of age his family transferred to Munich, Germany as part of the U.S. Occupation Forces. He later graduated from Lewis and Clark High School, Spokane, Washington and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree at Oakland City University before enlisting in the U.S. Army. Pat graduated from Infantry OCS at Ft. Benning, Ga, earning the butter bars of a Second Lieutenant and then went on to earn his Aviator Wings at Ft. Wolters, Texas and Ft. Rucker, Alabama.

In October 1968 he arrived in Vietnam and was assigned to the 173rd Assault Helicopter Company, the Robin Hoods and Crossbows, at Lai Khe, Vietnam. He initially flew “slicks” but after a month was invited to join the helicopter gunship platoon first as section leader, Aircraft Commander and later following the death of his platoon leader took over the reins of the gunship platoon as platoon leader. The last two months ‘in country’ saw him serving as operations officer and Command and Control pilot coordinating

hundreds of combat assaults with ground forces and his aviation assets. In his one year tour Pat’s aircraft suffered numerous small arms damage but was only once shot down with a radar controlled .51 caliber anti-aircraft gun courtesy of the USSR. His 4 man crew on the “hog” ship (19 shot rocket pods) all survived with minor injuries. Pat was awarded the Bronze Star with V device for valor and a Purple Heart for his actions in pulling his co-pilot from the burning wreckage.

Pat served his final two years on active duty as an Instructor Pilot and Flight Commander at Ft. Wolters Texas. He then served 15 years in the Washington Army National Guard at Ft. Lewis, Washington as a Captain, CW2 and CW3. He flew more than 3,600 hours earning him the Master Aviators Badge.

He then went on to serve 24 years with the King County Sheriff’s Office in Seattle retiring as a Captain in 1996. Pat lives in East Wenatchee with his wife Bev. Upon reading this, he says it looks like an obituary and wishes his friends to know he is very much alive.

Pat’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Bev.

LESTER O. FOLTZ, JR. U.S. Army 1948–1976

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ester Foltz was born in Arkansas, Kansas on December 19, 1929. He grew up primarily in Barstow, California; however, he graduated from High School in Klamath Falls, Oregon. He enlisted in the Navy right after High School and was in the service for four years. While on leave and visiting his family in Oregon he met his future bride, Joan. After leaving the service, Les married and went to work as a postal carrier and began attending Oregon Technical Institute. His civilian life was cut short and he re-enlisted in the military when his first born died due to complications of cancer and he was faced with overwhelming medical bills. It was a lifetime career choice that he would later say was the best choice he would have made.

Les went on to work his way up in the Army

from a private first class to a Chief Warrant Officer 3 in the 101st Airborne. He served in Korea, 2 tours in Vietnam and stateside.

He earned numerous medals for his service throughout his army career. Les, a talented artist, was even commissioned to lend his drawing talent to detail a mission and create depictions of U.S. military uniforms throughout history. Les retired from the military in 1976 and started a second career as a human resource professional. He and Joan moved to Washington in 1976 where they lived out their lives enjoying family, and working as avid volunteers in their church and community. He passed away while living in East Wenatchee in 2013. Les had a warrior’s heart, a soul of an artist and a kind and humble spirit.

Lester’s story was proudly submitted by daughter Debra K. Foltz-Yonaka.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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DONALD A. FLICK

U.S. Army — German POW 1943–1945

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onald Flick was born 1914 in Bedford Iowa. During the depression, many of Don’s Aunt’s, Uncles, and cousins started moving west. Some settled in Boise while many moved to the Wenatchee area. Don followed family to Boise, and then on to Wenatchee, Washington.

Family was very important, and the whole extended family stuck together helping each other through the depression years.

Don was drafted into the army from Wenatchee, Washington in March of 1941. He went to Fort Lewis and from there to Fort Knox and assigned to the First Armored Division, Company C, Combat Engineers. He received radio training and qualified as a radio operator, sending and receiving Morse code and voice.

He also trained as a rifleman, machine gunner 30 and 50 caliber. He built and destroyed bridges, laid and removed mine fields.

His unit was deployed to England in June of 1942 and then to North Africa in November, where they participated in Operation Torch.

Torch was the debut of the mass involvement of U.S. troops in the European North African Theatre.

was 2% over starvation.” That turned out to be generous as he would spend the next two and a half years on less than a starvation diet and for him the fight for survival had just begun, a fight that would haunt him for the rest of his life.

Operation Torch — 1943 Don, a natural storyteller describes Operation Torch in vivid detail. “They landed at Oran under heavy fire planes strafing, English warships pouring it to the land. The only cover they had was English Spitfires. They were in every kind of boat imaginable and hundreds did not make it. They landed on the beaches firing.

They were shooting as fast as they could as the Germans were coming straight at them.” This was Donald’s first experience with combat and death.

Liberation — May 1945 “One day a messenger came in all excited and told the guards we are going to evacuate. The Russians were only eight kilometers away. We had to hurry. We were going along in the night when he noticed the guards were not carrying their rifles. Pretty soon we were through the American line. I asked an MP what time it was.

He said it was “0300, May 3rd 1945.” What a relief, it was over.”

Don returned to Boise, where he later married and had children. He ran a business, but always wanted to return to the Wenatchee area. The family moved to Wenatchee and enjoyed many outdoor activities with all of the cousins living in the area. Family was always important to Don, and in his later years he enjoyed those close relationships that were established during the depression. Family is what got him through the POW years, and family helped him cope with the aftereffects of the war. His wife, three children, and several grandchildren enjoy his memory. We respect his example of perseverance.

For more on Don’s POW experience go to: donaldaflick.blogspot.com.

The Battle of Kasserine Pass — February 1943 The battle of Kasserine Pass was the first major engagement between Americans and Axis forces in World War II in Africa. After numerous engagements against the enemy, Don describes his capture at Kasserine Pass. “We went over the hill into the desert. It seemed like no man’s land. We had wounded with us on stretchers and we took turns carrying them.

A German tank came to us and the guy in the turret said, “Get on. I felt sick and helpless, useless and defeated. Everyone else looked the same way. An American officer gave us a pep talk. He said that we had done our duty and would live through it if we ate everything that they gave us, however, the German prison ration

POW Stalags VIIA, VB and IIB — 1943–May 1945 The Germans kept moving prisoners around, and Don finally ended up in Stalag IIB. Treatment was worse at Stalag IIB than at any other camp in Germany established for American POW’s. Harshness at the base Stalag degenerated into brutality and outright murder on some of the prison work detachments.

Beatings of Americans on work detachments by their German overseers were too numerous to list but records that 10 Americans in work detachments where shot to death by their captors. Don was sent to work often and was told to work harder or be shot. He often had that sick weak feeling and was very near death several times. Finally, Don started getting letters from home. he sadly learned of his sister’s death. This hit him hard, and he was very near giving up.

Don’s amazing story was proudly submitted by his grandson and sponsored by Pybus Public Market.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

CPO. HARVEY GJESDAL

U.S. Coast Guard 1989–2015

H

arvey Gjesdal Was born in Kennewick, Washington. He graduated from Kennewick High School, and later, with his Masters Degree from Central Washington University. He joined the U.S Coast Guard in 1989. He was trained as a Maritime Law Enforcement Specialist.

While in the U.S., he was part of teams tasked with enforcing maritime laws and conducting search and rescue missions.

In 1991, when Operation Desert Storm broke out, he was shipped to Saudi Arabia to protect allied ports. He was a machinegunner and an engineer on a Coast Guard patrol boat. In 2003, when Operation Iraqi Freedom started, he was shipped to Iraq as part of a unit charged with protecting an oil discharge platform. He was moved to the unit armory where he maintained the unit‘s weapons and acted as a small arms instructor for other Coastguardsmen.

He also served after 9/11 guarding a Navy ammunition facility and in 2010 in Mobile

Alabama During the BP oil spill.

During his service, Harvey rose to the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7). He traveled the world including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, South Korea, and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He retired in 2015 after 26 years of service.

Harvey enjoyed serving his nation in the Coast Guard. His philosophy about the service is that every good man should give some time to his country. His favorite bible verse, Isaiah 6:8 says it best: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?

And I said “Here am I. Send me.“ Harvey is married to the love of his life, Jennifer Gjesdal. They have four children: Emily, Alex, Jordan and Nick. Harvey is the retired Sheriff for Douglas County, Washington.

Jennifer is a teacher at Orchard Middle School.

Harvey’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Jennifer.

GEORGE GOODWIN PFC U.S. Army 1941–1946

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eorge Goodwin was born Feb 6, 1917 in Malaga Wa, to Thomas and Lottie Goodwin. George grew up at his family’s place in the Colockum area and graduated from Wenatchee High School.

He enlisted in the Army on March 27, 1941.

George was shipped out from San Francisco on Nov. 21, 1941 with the 2nd Battalion, 131st Field Artillery, 36th Infantry Division assigned to the Philippines. With the outbreak of WWII in December they were re-routed to Australia.

After Christmas the Battalion sailed to Java arriving on Jan. 11, 1942. The 2nd Battalion was the only U.S. ground force in the Dutch East Indies. After fighting the Battle of Java, Allied Commanders surrendered unconditionally on March 8, 1942. This is the time frame when the 2nd Battalion eventually became known as the “Lost Battalion.” The fate of these men were unknown to the U.S. until Sept 1944.

George’s parents, Thomas and Lottie Goodwin received a letter from the War Department in June 1942 saying he was classified as missing in action.

After Georges capture and imprisonment, he was moved with his Battalion in October 1942 to Burma by train and ship to build the Burma-

Thailand Railway, or as it became known as, the “Death Railway.” One of the most notable portions of the railway was bridge 277, later named “Bridge Over The River Kwai.”

George spent three and a half years as a prisoner of war and worked on the railway from October 1942 to approximately October 1943. His living and working conditions were described as horrific with maltreatment, sickness and starvation. A number of books have been written about the Lost Battalion and the Death Railway.

One book about the experience is The Bamboo Express which mentions George “Cookie” Goodwin.

George was liberated in August 1945.

George returned to the Wenatchee area and married Mary Craig on April 22, 1947. He worked on the Grand Coulee, Rocky Reach and Wells dams. He also worked as a truck driver retiring in 1972. George passed in 1995 and is buried at the Wenatchee Cemetery.

George’s story was proudly submitted by son and daughters, Virgil Goodwin, Claudia Parks, and Darlene Goodwin. It was sponsored by Pioneer Title Company.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

JERRY L. HARLOW U.S. Air Force 1956–1964

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was born Nov. 18, 1934 in Kansas City, Kansas. After attending Argentine High School in Kansas City, I joined the Air Force in May 1956. My basic training was at Lockland Air Force Base located in Amarillo, Texas. After basic training, I was then stationed at Larson Air Force base in Moses Lake. My assigned duties were “Metal Procession Specialist” for the 62nd Field Maintenance Squadron.

In 1960, our Squadron was transferred to McCord Air Force Base in Tacoma, at which time I re-enlisted for another four years. While stationed at Larson Air Force Base, I met Louise Sutton who became my wife. We married March 14, 1958 at The Emanuel Baptist Church in Wenatchee.

While serving, the first two of our children Terry and Sherrie, were born at Larson Air Force Base. The next two, Barry and Gary were born at McCord Air Force Base. After honorable

discharge in June 1964, we moved to Wenatchee where we bought a small orchard on Burch Mountain Road. It is here, where we had the last two of our six children, Larry and Kari.

I owned a welding shop business for many years which was located on our property. After I sold my business, I joined IBEW from which I retired.

Louise and I still own our land, live in the same house (56 years) which we purchased in 1964. Today, you will find us living on “Harlow Lane.” We proudly have nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Sunnyslope Elementary School has been blessed with four generations of us starting in 1944 through 2019.

I am honored to have served our country for over eight years.

Gene’s story was proudly submitted by his daughter Sherrie.

From all of Us at

Collins Fashions...

Thank You

2 S. Wenatchee Ave. Downtown Wenatchee

509.665.7600

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

JERRY GUTZWILER U.S. Army 1967–1997

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erry was drafted on July 7, 1967. After Basic Training, Jerry entered Officer Candidate School in November 1967, graduating in May 1968 as a Combat Engineer. He went to Ordnance School in Fort Mead Maryland.

In 1969, Jerry was assigned to duty in Korea for 13 months, being discharged in April 1970.

Nine Months later Jerry was reactivated to the Army Reserves.

While working as a Forester for Weyerhauser, he spent the next 25+ years in the Reserves.

Jerry was called to active status in 1989 to serve in Panama during the Noriega conflict. He also had assignments to the Solomon Islands, Tonga and the Marianas to develop natural disaster plans.

Jerry became the Commander of the Civil Affairs unit at Fort Lewis as a Lt. Col. Retiring in 1997 as a Colonel.

Jerry’s story was proudly submitted by his brother Norm.

SGT. NORMAN P. GUTZWILER U.S. Marines 1966–1970

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ollowing basic training, at Camp Pendleton, California, he attended the helicopter tech. training center in Memphis, Tennessee and advanced helicopter training at Camp Pendleton before being assigned to Marine Light Helicopter Squadron 367 MAG 36, 1st Marine Air Wing in Vietnam. During his Vietnam tour, July 1968 to September 1969, he was a Crew Chief on a UH-1E gunship.

During his tour he received the Silver Star Medal, two Air Medals (Bronze Star and Gold Star), the Purple Heart, and 58 Strike/Flight Awards.

Following his military service he returned to Wenatchee and resides here with his wife Myra, four children and 10 grandchildren.

Norm’s story was proudly submitted by his Wife Myra, Daughter Jane, Sister Marian and Brother Jerry.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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ANTON HARLE U.S. Army 1942–1945

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orn in Germany in 1906, he immigrated to the U.S. in 1927. His signature is still on the books at Ellis Island. From there he took a train cross country to Ephrata, Washington. For the next two years he worked for his uncle and aunt on their homestead ranch on Sagebrush Flats. From there he moved on to Aswell, Washington to work with his two brothers Carl and Frank.

When the war broke out he enlisted as he was too old to be drafted. He said that he owed this country for allowing him to enter and become a citizen. During the war he was assigned to the

ERIC D. HEDEEN

5th Army Air Force in the Pacific theater.

After the war, he and his two brothers started Harle Brothers Construction. Two of their most well known projects were the Catholic Church in East Wenatchee and the ski lodge at Mission Ridge. He and his wife “Josepha” also adopted five children during their marriage.

To them he is a hero and a truly honorable man.

Anton’s story was proudly submitted by his wife and children, Mary, Mark, Mike, Marti and Monica.

U.S. Air Force Lieutenant 1987–1991

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ric was born in 1963 in Everett, Washington and grew up on his family’s orchard in Malaga. He enjoyed hunting and fishing while working in the orchard alongside horses and a pair of memorable Dalmatian dogs. He attended Wenatchee schools and graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1982. He was also a member of Chelan County Volunteer Search and Rescue.

Eric continued his education at Washington State University, where he joined ROTC and was president of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He graduated with a degree in architecture and worked for a local architect when he designed the Wenatchee downtown pavilion.

In 1989, he married Susan, and moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he was stationed at Eaker Air Force Base.

During the Gulf War in 1991, he was stationed with the 97th Bombardment Wing at Diego Garcia in the middle of the Indian Ocean,

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serving as an Electronics Warfare Officer onboard a B-52 bomber. On February 3, 1991 while returning from a mission, the aircraft lost an engine and all electrical power. The six-member crew bailed out under 2,000 feet.

Three crew members were rescued from the ocean amid burning wreckage. The next day Eric’s body was found attached to his life raft.

Eric was interred at Evergreen Memorial Park in East Wenatchee, with full military honors and a B-52 flyover.

His parents created a scholarship at the WSU College of Engineering and Architecture in his name.

Eric was intelligent, thoughtful and funny, and he displayed these traits with everyone he knew.

Eric’s story was proudly submitted by his brother Kurt Hedeen and sister Valerie Hedeen McInnes in whose memories Eric remains animated and laughing. Also supported with the sponsorship from 3J’s Orchard.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

GERALD ‘JERRY’ HEDEEN U.S. Air Force Lieutenant 1953–1957

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erry was born in 1931 and raised in a St. Paul, Minnesota suburb. He spent considerable time on his grandparent’s farm using draft horses to power equipment.

He joined ROTC and graduated from St. Thomas College with a cartography degree. His love of flying and country was realized as an Air Force Fighter pilot. While stationed in Olathe, Kansas in 1956 he met Dee and made her his bride three months later.

Following his Air Force service he served as a civilian liaison with the military contributing to the design of radar installations. His work required frequent moves to Michigan, Arizona, California, Alabama and Washington.

Living in Everett Jerry was to attend a meeting in Wenatchee. Sheets of rain poured as he drove to the top of Stevens Pass when the clouds parted to sunny skies. That event prompted a career and lifestyle change.

Jerry and Dee purchased a small orchard filled with ancient winesap, pear and cherry trees on which stood an old tilted farmhouse. Jerry worked fulltime as Director of the Community Action

Council to support the family while working all his off hours building the orchard business and repairing the house. He was a voracious reader and instilled values of hard work and love of God, family, nature and country in his three sons and daughter. A favorite saying to support his instruction was “it builds character.” He provided a ranch life for his family that included horses, dogs, hunting and fishing, hockey on a frozen lake and countryside rides in a WWII Willys Jeep. Jerry volunteered on many community and church boards and projects throughout his life.

His hard work eventually allowed the purchase of additional property and son Kurt joined the orchard operation as partner. Jerry worked in the orchard daily into his mid-80s and missed it greatly when he could no longer participate, but continued to watch the skies and the variety of planes that fly in our area.

He died in September 2019 and was buried with full military honors.

Jerry’s story was proudly submitted by son and daughter Kurt Hedeen and Valerie Hedeen McInnes. Supported with the sponsorship from 3J’s Orchard.

LYNN M. HEMINGER U.S. Air Force 1956–1962

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ynn Heminger graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1952, and attended Washington State College.

He graduated in 1956 with a degree in Horticulture and a Commission of 2nd Lieutenant, having completed four years of USAF ROTC. He went on active duty in 1957 and began flight training at Malden Missouri, learning to fly the T-34, then the T-28. After marriage at the end of 1957, he and Joan moved to Enid, Oklahoma where he received jet training in the T-33 and was awarded his pilots wings. Next was training in Valdosta, Georgia, in the T-86L all weather interceptor. Moses Lake was his first duty station in the 322nd Fighter Interceptor Squadron. There they transitioned to the F101B Voodoo. The squadron moved to Klamath Falls, Oregon where he completed his active duty 1 Oct 1962. He was blessed to serve in between

the Korean and Vietnam wars, serving only in peace time.

He returned to Wenatchee in 1962, with his wife Joan and their two sons Kent and Barry to take over the family Orchard. He continued serving in the Air Force Reserve for an additional 22 years retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Lynn enjoyed orcharding for over 30 years.

He was a member of the Eastmont School Board for 12 years, serving as President for two terms.

He also served as Douglas County PUD Comissioner for 24 years and was elected President of the Washington State PUD Association in 2009.

He has also been a long time member of the Wenatchee Apollo Club.

Lynn’s story was proudly submitted by his Wife Joan and his three children and their families.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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ROBERT A. HENSEL U.S. Navy 1940–1946

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obert Arthur Hensel was a native son of Douglas County, U.S. Navy veteran, public servant, lawyer and farmer.

Born December 3, 1921 to Arthur John and Ruby Webb Hensel in Waterville, WA, he graduated from Waterville high school in 1940. Mr. Hensel was Waterville City Attorney for many years. He was a founding director of Mid State Bank. He was the incorporator of the Douglas County Museum. He was a member of Badger Mountain Lodge No. 57, Free and Accepted Masons, initiated during Christmas vacation in 1941, almost immediately after Pearl Harbor, and El Katif Shrine Temple in Spokane.

In 1940 he entered Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) at the University of Washington, where he affiliated with Sigma Chi fraternity. He graduated in January of 1944 and was immediately shipped to the South Pacific Ocean. He served for two and a half years on the Destroyer Erben (631), as Assistant Gunnery Officer. While serving, his ship was involved in the invasions of Guam, Saipan, Tinian, Iwo Jima, the landings at Leyte Gulf in the Philippines, Okinawa and bombardments of Kamaishi and Hamamatsu, Japan. The Erben was in Task Force 38 and 58 with the fast carriers around Japan. Following the end of WWII, Robert Hensel was honorably separated from the Navy in May of 1946. In 2013, Robert had the rewarding experience of going on an Honor Flight to Washington DC with several other local veterans.

Following his service, he graduated in 1950 from University of Idaho Law School and moved back to Waterville. He and his father, A. J. Hensel, had eleven good years practicing law together before his father died in 1961. A. J. had been practicing law in Waterville since 1908, and

Robert continued the practice until 2006.

Robert married Jane Adams King of Boise, Idaho on September 7, 1947. Four sons were born to the union, and they were all involved in Scouting. Robert spent nearly 20 years as Scout Master. He helped many boys realize their fuller potential while eating sandy, charred food, or sleeping on never very soft rocks. In January of 1971, he was awarded the Silver Beaver, the highest honor a Scout volunteer can achieve. Each Hensel son achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, which Robert, too, had earned as a lad of 15 years. In 1937, Robert attended the first National Boy Scout Jamboree in Washington, DC. Robert loved to take his boys hunting. As each son got his license, he spent a couple of years carrying an empty gun, practicing gun safety, only being issued a shell when there was something to shoot.

Robert was Douglas County Prosecuting Attorney from 1951 to 1971. At that time, the job was considered “part time” and included being Coroner, Legal Counsel to all school districts in the County, and Juvenile officer, all for $200 per month! Robert enjoyed the Juvenile officer part, agreeing with Father Flannigan who said, “It is better to build boys than to mend men.” In 1966-68, he served as president of the state association of Prosecuting Attorneys.

Robert was always active in the farming and ranching community and developed an irrigated hay ranch in upper Moses Coulee in the mid-1950s. For a number of years, he had a cow-calf operation with J. Adelbert (Del) Shick. Del took Veterinary short courses and together they would search textbooks in their “vet shack” for diagnoses and cures. In a pre-internet age, they managed to save and cure most of their cattle. Robert served as President of the Washington Cattlemen’s Association in 1964-65.

Mr. Hensel enjoyed the wonders of nature all his life. In the late 1970s he and Jane began serious bird watching throughout North America. He achieved the rare distinction of identifying more than 750 species of birds.

Robert passed away at home on May 7, 2017. He loved his family, he loved his country, he loved his work, and he loved birds.

Robert’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Jane.

EARL WESLEY ‘WES’ HENSLEY JR. U.S. Marine Corps 1940–1944

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es was born on May 1, 1922 in San Francisco Bay area, California. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, following in his fathers’ footsteps. Following Boot Camp Wes was assigned to the Treasure Island guard detail.

In December 1941, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Wes was assigned to the First Marine Division. During the Guadalcanal Campaign, Wes was wounded in action and contracted Malaria. He was evacuated to New Zealand where he spent approximately a year recovering from Guadalcanal before being returned to the United States.

In 1945, Wes met and married Patricia I. Ewell in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their only child, Earl W. Hensley III was born in 1947 in Spokane, Washington.

Wes and Pat eventually arrived in Wenatchee where they lived until death took Pat in 1999. Wes followed her in 2001.

Wes joined the Wenatchee Fire Department in 1953. He rose through the ranks retiring as the City Fire Marshall after 25 years dedicated service.

Like many of his generation, Wes did not talk much about his war time service. He was proud to have been in the Marine Corps and was active in

the Marine Corps League for many years, rising to the office of Senior Vice Commandant for the Department of Washington.

Wes was a dedicated member of the Wenatchee Downtown Kiwanis, being named Kiwanian of the year in 1973. His Kiwanis Club hosted one of the early Misawa Delegations. It was at the Kiwanis meeting honoring the Japanese delegation that he happened to be seated next to a Japanese gentleman who had served in the Japanese Marines during World War II. Up until that time, Wes had carried an intense dislike for all things Japanese. Understandable considering his experiences on Guadalcanal and the intense antiJapanese propaganda the entire country had been subjected to during and even after the war. But that day was a game changer for Wes. The Japanese Veteran spoke English very well and they were able to carry on a conversation that day, learning they each carried many of the same scars from the war.

They came to realize they had more in common that either would have believed. In two short hours the ill feelings carried by both men were replaced by real friendship. They carried on a correspondence for years. That friendship drove the war-born devils from the hearts to two good men.

Wes’s story was proudly submitted by his son and fellow Veteran Wes Hensley III.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

CPL. MATTHEW HEPNER U.S. Marines 1999–2003

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atthew was born in Redmond, Washington in 1980 and raised in the Covington area of Washington.

Upon graduation from Kentwood Hight School Matthew shipped out for basic training the day after graduation in the summer of 1999.

Initially under an infantry contract he was transferred to the Air Wing as an Aviation Electrician and he was stationed with VMA-513 attack Squadron “the Nightmares” in Yuma, Arizona.

Cpl. Hepner was selected for a secondary billet as well and was one of the first Marine Corps martial arts instructors at Yuma Air Station.

After 9/11 Matthew and the 513 nightmares were sent to Afghanistan from 2002-2003.

While there Matthew received the Naval

BRAD HERSEL

U.S. Army 2008–2013

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rad joined the U.S. Army in 2008 as a MOS 11C infantry mortarman. He went to basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia.

After 4 ½ months of basic training he was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas. He was placed in the 1st Infantry Division, 2nd Battalion 16th Infantry Regiment also known as “Rangers.”

He was deployed to Iraq from 2009–2010.

Then Brad was deployed to Afghanistan from 2012–2013 where he earned a combat infantry badge.

Brad got out of the Army in 2013 after four years and 11 months of dedicated service.

Brad’s story was proudly submitted Wayne Hersel.

Commendation Medal for his work teaching close combat, hand-to-hand and knife fighting.

After being stop losssed, Matthew was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps.

After his military duty Matthew moved to the Wenatchee Valley and joined the electrical apprenticeship, where he completed a program and became a journeyman wireman.

Working closely with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers he helps draft policies to benefit working families.

He was elected to East Wenatchee City Council in 2017 and is currently still actively serving his community where he lives with his wife Jennifer and daughter Haven.

Matthew proudly submitted his story.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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MARVIN HERSEL U.S. Navy 1952–1971

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arvin served in the U.S. Navy from 1952–1971. He served on the USS Cunningham during the Korean War. He also served on: USS Hamul USS Swenson USS Bryce Canyon USS Navasota USS Isle Royale USS Hector.

He retired as a Chief Gunner’s Mate.

Marvin’s story was proudly submitted by Wayne Hersel.

EUGENE L. HILL U.S. Navy 1940–1967

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ugene L. Hill, CWO4, honorably served several ships and shores during his Navy career. During WWII he served on the heavy cruiser USS Louisville CA28 in the Pacific. While serving on the ship, the “Lady Lou” took 3 Kamikaze plane hits and accumulated 13 battle stars. The ship also was at Pearl Harbor a day after the December 7, 1941 attack.

While stationed on the USS Lake Champlain as a warrant officer in charge of communications, he was instrumental in the recovery of Alan Shepard and the Mercury capsule. This was the first successful U.S. human spaceflight that was to put an astronaut into orbit around the earth and return safely.

Gene was decorated with the Purple Heart, many sharp shooting awards, along with

awards of Good Conduct, WWII Victory Medal, American Defense, China Service, Navy Occupation, Asiatic Pacific, American Area and Philippine Liberation.

While in Cuba, Gene fell in love with its culture and most of all its people. Befriending a special couple that he and a Navy buddy later sponsored in coming to America and later helping them become American Citizens. They remained dear friends until Gene’s passing in 2007.

Gene settled in East Wenatchee with his wife Nancy and their blended family, retiring as the manager of AAA Club of Washington after 13 years.

Eugene’s story was proudly submitted by D.A. Davidson Wenatchee.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

J. COLIN HILL

U.S. Army 2002–2011

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ept. 11, 2011 inspired J. Colin Hill to enlist in the U.S. Army. He married Heather J. Hobart Dec. 22, 2001, and they both “honeymooned” at Fort Jackson, South Carolina for Basic Training.

Colin and his wife graduated from Basic Training on his birthday, April 4, 2002. He spent his next birthday April 4, 2003 participating in the battle for the Bagdad Airport with Fort Steward’s 3rd Infantry Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom’s initial invasion of Iraq. Colin again deployed to Qatar in 2004-2006 in support of operations in Iraq. He and his team were to be secondary to the primary Satcom team in Iraq, but quickly assumed responsibility of being the primary Satcom team supporting communications for the 3rd Infantry Division.

Colin was also selected to apply for the White House Communications Agency (WHCA).

After passing a rigorous background investigation, Colin was notified that he would be relocating to Washington, D.C. to work for WHCA. He received word of this assignment

in November 2006 when he was stop-loss to deploy to Iraq December 2006. The White House was the only assignment that outweighed the 3rd ID’s need for his support during the deployment.

Colin worked under the Bush and Obama administration at WHCA from 2007 to 2011.

Colin excelled in the U.S. Army and quickly caught the attention of leadership due to his calm demeanor and ability to execute difficult tasks under extreme pressure. He was promoted to E7 in seven years due to his dedication and discipline as a soldier.

Colin was medically retired from the Army on December 28, 2011. He is the proud father of three children: Noelle (13), Allyson (7), and Michael (2). He now is employed with Costco Wholesale and works at their Data Center as a Data Center Analyst. He also humors his wife by owning a small hobby farm where he raises hay/alfalfa, chickens, ducks, geese, goats, horses and one mini cow.

Collin’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Heather.

ROBERT A. ‘BOB’ HUGHES U.S. Navy 1964–1970

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ob was born in Spokane to the late Al and Virginia Hughes. At the age of 5, the family moved to Wenatchee.

While still in High School, Bob joined the U.S. Navy Reserves in 1964. In February of 1967, he began active duty and in July of that year served in Vietnam for one year. He completed active duty in October 1968 and finished Reserves in 1970.

Bob is married to Marilou and they have three grown children; Jeff, Angela and Chris.

They have seven grandchildren; Derek, Kamryn, Jerrod, Breanne, Connor, Sonya and Jaxson.

In 1969 Bob took a job with the Chelan County Planning Department, advancing to

Planning Director for the City of Wenatchee from which he retired. He then again worked for Chelan County as their Planning Director for three and a half years finally retiring the second time.

After retirement, Bob was diagnosed with multiple myeloma which was a result of exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam. Bob said he never regretted his service to our country and was known to say “he was raised in Wenatchee but grew up in Vietnam.”

Robert’s Hero story is submitted by his very proud wife Marilou.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LEANDRO ‘LANDO’ JASSO U.S. Army 2012–2018

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ergeant Jasso enlisted in the Army in 2012 and became an accomplished soldier, completing the Basic Airborne Course, earning the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the much-sought after Ranger tab.

Jasso, who was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, was on his third deployment to Afghanistan when he was killed in action on November 24, 2018 during a close-quarters firefight with al-Qaida forces in the Khash Rod District, Nimruz province, dying immediately of his injuries.

“Sgt. Jasso was a humble professional who placed the mission first, lived the Ranger Creed and will be deeply missed,” Lt. Col. Rob McChrystal, Jasso’s battalion commander, said in the Army’s official statement.

His awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Expert Infantryman’s Badge and Expert Rifle Marksmanship Badge.

Lando was born on June 19, 1993 in Brewster, Washington, met his future adoptive family in September, lived in Entiat, North Bend, and Leavenworth where he started his education at Osborn

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Elementary School. As a senior, he completed the 2011-2 cycle in the Washington Youth Academy and returned to complete his senior year at Cascade High School, graduating in 2012. Lando wrestled and played football with the Kodiaks. He also played the tuba in Band and had previously taken piano, violin and cello lessons. He played soccer, Little League, swam with the Wenatchee Valley Summer Swim League, skied and snowboarded at Ski Hill, and was active in Scouts through.

Pack 28 and Troop 28 where he earned his Life rank.

Lando Jasso is survived by his father, Gabe Jasso, Leavenworth; his mother, Betty Palmer, Cashmere; brother, Esai Jasso, Leavenworth; his paternal grandfather, Cecil Jasso, Klamath Falls, OR; maternal grandparents, Frank and Sandra Miller, North Bend, WA, nephew, Ryder Jasso, Cashmere, his Ranger brothers, countless dear friends, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended families.

He will always be remembered in the small town of Leavenworth as a bright, funny, driven and loving friend who made everyone feel special. As the news of his death spread throughout the valley, former teachers and friends recalled a quiet young man who enjoyed the discipline.

Lando’s story was proudly submitted by fellow veterans at Wenatchee Valley VFW Post 3617.

WE SALUTE YOU

DEVIN

And All Who Have Served. Thank You!



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DEVIN GOOCH

Devin Gooch is a Wenatchee native and son of Rhonda Rose, who is a longtime employee of Micron Audiology. He served as a medic in the US Army from 2005-2009. Devin was awarded with a Purple Heart and Bronze Star with Valor. Today he is a helicopter pilot with the Washington State DNR (Department of Natural Resources) and they are lucky to have him.

THE IGLOO 1308 N. Miller Wenatchee 509-663-4791

US Army 2005 - 2009

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1129 Springwater Ave. Wenatchee, WA

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LEROY JOHNSTON U.S. Navy 1947–1951

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eroy, usually known as Roy was born in Wenatchee, June 28, 1929 to the late Claude and Barbara Johnston.

Growing up, there was plenty of work to be done. Working in the orchard and feeding livestock. Much of which had to be done early in the morning before he caught the school bus.

Upon graduating from Wenatchee High School, Roy joined the Navy and was sent to San Diego, California for recruit training.

After boot camp he was assigned to Hawaii to be an orderly for an admiral who was Base Commander for the Fleet Airwing II. The next two years were spent as a crewman on a PB4YZ Patrol Bomber attached to Squadron YP-22 rotating from Guam to Hawaii. At this time, the Korean War broke out and he and other airmen were assigned to the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Princeton (CV-37). After serving one year in the Sea of Japan, he was honorably discharged and returned home.

Roy enrolled at Wenatchee Valley College to study engineering and play football. He

graduated in the class of ’53. Then he attend the University of Washington to earn his Bachelors Degree while working at Boeing.

After graduation he accepted a position at General Dynamics Corp. in Fort Worth, Texas.

He attended Texas Christian University where he was selected to be an exchange student in Germany. He was awarded a Masters Degree, appointed Admiral in the Texas Navy and also past Master of a Masonic lodge in Texas.

Having worked 35 years in aerospace, he decided to retire and return back to Wenatchee to be with family, friends and twin brother Ray. They served together for two years in the same Navy patrol squadron.

Roy still lives here in Wenatchee with his lovely wife Patty and enjoys their children and grandchildren (Clayton and Liam). He is a member of Calvary Bible Church and was a member of the Apollo Club.

Roy was honored to submit his story.

LCDR. RAYMOND JOHNSTON U.S. Navy 1948–1978

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aymond “Ray” was born and raised in Wenatchee with his twin brother Leroy “Roy.” He graduated from Wenatchee High School and attended Wenatchee Valley College and played on the first organized football team in the fall of 1947.

He entered the U.S. Navy in 1948 and enlisted for four years. At the end of his enlistment, the Korean War was in full swing. President Turman froze all enlistments so he was involuntarily extended indefinitely. He then reenlisted for four more years. At the end of that enlistment (eight years total service) he was in China. He then again reenlisted and decided to make the Navy a career. He attended Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. He remained on active duty until 1978 and retired

as Lieutenant Commander. The Navy was his life and he has no regrets. “It was a wonderful experience and career.”

Ray served many years in Aviation squadrons, Destroyer Navy, Amphibious Force and with duty aboard cruiser USS Chicago (CG-11).

While on active duty he went to night school whenever duties permitted and graduated from the University of LaVerne, CA. He notes the interesting places he went: Hawaiian Islands, Johnston Island, Kwajalein Island, Guam, Midway Island, Okinawa, Japan ( Yokosuka, Sasebo, Tokyo, Yokohama, Kobe), China (Hong Kong, Kowloon), Vietnam (Da Nang, Rivers), Philippines (Subic, Clark, Manila), Taiwan and Rhode Island.)

Ray is a proud veteran and submitted his story.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

DONALD L. JONES

U.S. Navy 1951–1955

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on L. Jones served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He served on a number of war ships, but was most proud of his time on the USS Valley Forge where he served as a Radioman.

He enlisted on March 8, 1951 and was Honorably Discharged on March 15, 1955.

He rose to rating of RM3 (Radioman 3rd Class).

Don Passed away on May 13, 2019.

Don’s story was proudly made possible with the sponsorship from 3J’s Orchard.

THANK YOU to all past, present and future Veterans!

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821 N. Wenatchee Ave. Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-663-1566 riverwayfamilydental.com

Call 509-663-9585 for more information Serving Chelan and Douglas Counties

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Downtown Wenatchee Veterans’ Banners Wenatchee Ave. Allen Brodus B. Bruno R. Bruno Creiglow Derry Dickinson Ferguson Harle Haugen E. Hedeen J. Hedeen Heminger Hensel B. Hersel M. Hersel Jasso Lawhead B. Lohse J. Lohse McCandlish Nelson Penhallegon Port Rasmusson Reider Robert Sandhop Snell Speidel Wasniewski Wilson Chelan Bean Boyd England W. Hensley Flick Hughes

C. Knudson J. Knudson Lynch McLaughlin Reinfeld Stevens Mission Cornwell Goodwin Harlow Hill Leonard McAlvey McFarling Munson Philley Reed Richard Sangster Sandoval Snyder Ward Orondo Compton Danielson New Jr. Salcido G. Sharratt G. Sharratt

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Esat Wenatchee Veterans’ Banners East Wenatchee Ashford C. Barrier L. Barrier Beal Beattiger Bertrand Biddle Bloomquist Bruggman Dixon Folz Gjesdal J. Gutzwiler N. Gutzwiler Hepner Hill L. Johnston R. Johnston Jones Knieling C. Lance W. Lance Lane Lawrence Liberts Ludwig O’Neal

Perkins Rust Simmons Spurling Stevens R. Wheeler S. Wheeler Wolffe

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

ROBERT H. KNIELING

U.S. Navy 1942–1945

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ob was born on June 4, 1922 in Azusa, California. Before joining the Navy, he attended Citrus College in Glendora, California where he broke his leg playing football. He had a scholarship to the University of Southern California that was unfortunately pulled after this incident.

After his injury, he went on to help coach the Citrus College football team.

He joined the Navy in 1942 during World War II and attended the United States Naval Training Schools in Houston, Texas and San Francisco, California specializing to become a Radio Technician. He was assigned to the USS Kitkun Bay which notably served in the largest naval battle of World War II known as the Battle of Leyte Gulf in 1944. He was honorably discharged in November 1945.

After leaving the Navy, he married his first and only wife, Audrey, who happened to be his best friend’s sister. Bob went on to attend Fresno State University with hopes of becoming a teacher. Upon completion of his schooling, they relocated to Downey, California.

Not only did he become a Math and Science teacher at Paramount High School as well as the coach for the football and baseball teams, Bob and Audrey also had three children. Fun fact: their children Denise (1947), Deena (1950), and Dana (1958) were all born in the

month of August. Bob and Audrey had 4 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Bob was known to be the best dad and grandpa a kid could ask her.

Bob enjoyed going on family camping trips every summer, fishing with his family/friends, and attending USS Kitkun Bay reunions with Audrey. They were able to visit many parts of the country thanks to those reunions. He also loved watching sports like football and golf, emailing with his friends/family, and doing crosswords from the morning newspaper. Bob was a great cook and family dinners were important especially in his later years. His cooking ability and Audrey’s baking skills later rubbed off on to their youngest granddaughter.

After living in Downey for 50+ years, Bob and Audrey lived out their later years in Helendale, California where their son, Dana lived. They spent their time outside by the pool during the summer and hosting family during the holidays.

Bob was married to Audrey until her passing in 2007.

In 2011, Bob passed away at the age of 89 in Victorville, California. His ashes were spread in Kern River by his family during a camping trip in his memory.

Bob’s story was submitted by his granddaughter Maekenna with the help of his children Denise and Deena.

CHERYL ‘CHERIE’ KNUDSON

U.S. Navy 1968–1975

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heryl “Cherie” enlisted in the U.S. Navy on Aug. 9, 1968 in Pueblo, Colorado. Tours of duty included Bainbridge, Maryland and Naples, Italy where she worked with an international staff at Allied Forces Southern Atlantic Treaty Organization (AFSOUTHNATO) from January 1971 to September 1972. A highlight of this duty was working on then President Richard Nixon’s advance staff when he visited the NATO HQ. In January 1973, she reported to U.S. Navy Recruiting office in Des Moines, Iowa with duty as a Navy Recruiter. She was subsequently promoted to Personnelman First Class (PN1), E-6.

Last but not least was duty at the U.S. Navy Recruiting Station in Oakland, California which was a true experience!! Cheri was discharged on Aug. 8, 1975 after seven years of active service.

She resides in Wenatchee with her husband and fellow veteran John “Top” Knudson.

Cherie’s story was proudly submitted by fellow veteran Mark Harle.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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JOHN ‘TOP’ KNUDSON U.S. Army 1966–1993

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st Sgt. John Knudson enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard in 1966 from Irwin, Iowa. In 1972, he was discharged and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve. In 1977, 1st Sgt. Knudson enlisted in the U.S. Army. His total service to this country totaled over 26 years.

His U.S. Army career took him to many locations: Fort Carson, Colorado; Ford Ord, California; Fort Riley, Kansas. In Des Moines, Iowa he excelled as an Army Recruiter. 1st Sgt. Knudson spent two tours in Germany. In 1990, while at Fort. Riley, the 1st Infantry Division was tagged to be part of the deployment to Iraq to support Dessert Shield/Desert Storm. He went with his unit and served as a 1st Sergeant, and an acting Sergeant Major. 1st Sgt. Knuds0n

returned to Fort Riley in May 1990 with his unit.

He retired on May 31, 1993.

He received many awards during the 26+ years. The highest of which was a Bronze Star Award when he returned to Fort Riley from Desert Storm. He also received a medal from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia given to all soldiers recognizing their service in the liberation of Kuwait.

He has resided in Wenatchee since 2013 with his wife and fellow veteran Cherie. He enjoys fishing in the region and is not planning on moving anytime soon.

John’s story was proudly submitted by fellow veteran Mark Harle.

CURT LANCE

U.S. Army 1967–1970

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was born in Ohio in 1948. In 1952, my family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, due to health problems my father was experiencing. In high school I was a member of the North Phoenix High School JR. ROTC program, and then ROTC for two years in College. In early 1967, my older brother, who was married and had just had a baby girl, got reclassified in the draft, and he moved a lot higher up on the draft list.

I enlisted in the U.S. Army to become an X-ray technician.

I was sent to Fort Bliss Texas in July 1967. Trust me when I say, “it was 120 in the shade and no shade!!.” Following Basic I was promoted to PFC and sent to Fort Gordon GA. for AIT, except that this Advance Individual Training was Combat Infantry and not X-ray. I was platoon guide here and graduated as a weapons expert. I then spent three weeks at Fort Benning Georgia. for leadership school. Following completion, I returned to Fort Gordon and helped finish another AIT group as a Drill Corporal. In December 67 I was given leave and returned to Phoenix to enjoy the holidays with my family.

Just after the new year in 1968 I received orders to report to Oakland California for deployment to Vietnam. I arrived in country on January 11, 1968 and was promoted to Specialist 5 and spent the next seven days in Jungle School, and after a few more days, was assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Brigade (Black Lions), 1st Infantry Division

(Big Red One).

The Tet Offensive began at the end of January, and it was made exceedingly clear that this was not a “Police Action,” as it had been portrayed in the states. For the next 10 plus months I watched 32 of my unit perish and 50-plus more get medically evacuated back to the states. I was part of an infantry platoon and a weapons platoon during my time there, and I can say that there were few hot meals, even fewer hot showers, and that everything you owned was saturated in red clay. Some of us survived the monsoons, the jungle, ring worm and leeches.

On September 13, 1968, during the Battle of Loc Ninh, Division Commander Major General Keith Ware, a holder of the Medal of Honor, was killed supervising a combat operation my unit was involved in. His Huey UH-1D had been shot from the sky by RPG fire.

In October 1968, while on a Search and Destroy mission I was knocked concussively into a tree and was partially paralyzed. I was sent to the 24th Med Evac Hospital at Tan San Nhut Air Base and sent home from there.

I finished my military service at Fort Lewis, and upon completion joined the Bellevue Washington Police Force.

Not finding this a career path, I spent the next 45 years in management in the Auto Industry. I retired in 2011 and moved to East Wenatchee. I celebrated my 50th Wedding Anniversary with my wife Shirley on June 20th, 2019. We have one daughter, who is married to a fine man, and we have two grandchildren of whom we are extremely proud.

Curt’s story was proudly submitted by himself.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

J. WENDELL LANCE U.S. Army 1942–1946

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y father was a milkman in Ohio, just starting a family. My older brother had been born in June of 1941. He often spoke of the experience he had during the depression, but always said he was able to put food on the table and pay the bills. In 1942 he was drafted into the U.S. Army, following the invasion of Pearl Harbor in December 1941.

He was sent to Fort Dix in New Jersey for his basic training, and was then sent to Cooks school, graduating as a Tech 4. He was then sent by train across the U.S. to San Francisco, where he boarded a troop transport ship, filled with GI’s heading to Honolulu, Hawaii. He often commented that while most of the army personnel on board were seasick throughout the journey, he had no problem. When he reached Hawaii he was assigned to the 21st Infantry Regiment of the 24th Infantry Division and promoted to Tech Sergeant. This unit protected Hawaii after Pearl Harbor and in 1943 was then sent to Australia.

Following Amphibious Landing and Jungle Training, in April 1944 they participated in the Battle of Hollandia.

Then in November 1944 they were sent to Leyte Island to relieve the 34th Infantry Regiment. In December 1944 the unit helped capture Mindoro. In April of 1945 the unit fought in the Battle of Mindanao. In October 1945, the unit was sent to the Japanese Island of Kyushu, where they

HOWARD LANE U.S. Army 1971–1974

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oward was born and raised in Wenatchee. He attended school in Wenatchee School District.

He enlisted in the Army in 1971 and after training spent most all of his military service in Germany.

After he left the military he worked 17 seasons for the U.S. Forest Served at Tanker Base. He worked nine years as a bus driver for Wenatchee School District. He worked 18 years for the town of Waterville in their Public Works Department.

Howard proudly volunteered at the Waterville School District reading with the grade school children. He is a big supporter of the Girl Scout Troop in Waterville and continues to do a lot of veterans support activities.

Howard’s story was proudly submitted by Linda Lane.

were stationed for Post War Occupation.

He returned to the States in April 1946 and returned home to Ohio and his now 5-year-old son. He went back to work in the Milk business where he thrived for more than 50 years, retiring from Carnation Milk Co. He was a deacon in our church, and over the years he cooked for many church events and conventions.

Cooks landed with all the other troops and fought until a secure area was established, when a mess tent was built and cooking supplies and food were brought in.

I was born in 1948 and growing up I asked my dad about his experience in World War II. His answer was always “I was in the wrong place at the right time.” I never once heard him speak of it other than to occasionally mention of his time in Kyushu.

My father was closer to my older brother than to me growing up, but after six years of ROTC, I enlisted and was sent to Vietnam as a combat infantryman, where, within a matter of weeks I began receiving daily letters and gift packages from my father, although they were never delivered daily. It was then that I understood the meaning of camaraderie and faithfulness. We remained very close for the remainder of his life. He was my true HERO! Wendell’s story was proudly submitted by his son and fellow Veteran Curt Lance.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

CHARLES J. LAWHEAD U.S. Army 1943–1945

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harlie joined the Army in World War II expecting to fight. His original plan was to become a paratrooper, but as happened with so many other GI’s, his plan did not quite work out. One of the tests was to be able to jump out of a moving pickup, roll to a stop and be ready for action. Charlie could do all but the roll. Consequently, he became a dogface and infantryman. After basic training he was assigned as a replacement in the 17th Infantry Division. When he got there, he found them looking for machine gunners. The guys were not measuring up until it became Charlie’s turn. He seized that machine gun, ran out to the firing position, flopped down and let go. The Colonel gave him high marks and from then on he carried a machine gun.

Looking back, if he had realized how much that thing weighed, he claimed he might not have put on such a good show.

Charlie saw action in Palau. Many tragic things happened on that island. His commanding officer was killed in Palau by a mortar round.

Charlie was seriously wounded on Okinawa.

Charlie was working his way around a hillock to get behind the Japanese when a machine gun

Call 662-6221

opened up on him. He was struck by three bullets in a diagonal row across his chest, one bullet shattering and lodging next to his heart. The force knocked him into a rice patty that probably saved his life. They were able to carry Charlie to an aid station. Nighttime was falling so evacuation had to wait until morning. Medics moved the wounded to a nearby cave. The Japanese pushed past the cave that night and Charlie did not get much sleep and could hear them outside. Charlie was struggling to breathe so in the morning he was a priority status to be evacuated and was rushed to the USS Comfort. They removed three bullets and left his chest wound next to his heart open until it could heal more. Charlie was still in the operating room when a Japanese Kamikaze pilot flew his airplane into the ship, hitting and killing seven nurses and five doctors. Only Charlie, his doctor and another man next to him survived.

Charlie was taken to Hawaii and spent the rest of the war in a home on the island of Oahu.

Charlie was awarded a Purple Heart and passed away in 2000.

Charlie’s story was proudly submitted by Wayne Hersel.

www.CallPatriot.net

Service is our Family Tradition

Sherry’s Grandpa, Robert “Bob” Millar, served in the 15th regiment 3rd Division under Gen. George Patton from 1941 - 1945. His tours included Algeria, Morocco, the Rhineland, Sicily, Tunisia, Naples and southern France. Grandpa Bob was the son of Irish & Scottish immigrants and served proudly for our country. During his service, he became great friends with Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated American combat soldiers of World War II, who later had a 21 year acting career. Grandpa Bob instilled the Family Service Tradition in his children and his son (Sherry’s father), Robert “Andy” Millar served in the Army during Viet Nam and grandson (Sherry’s brother), Robert Millar also served in the Army in the 1990’s. Sherry’s husband Paul also served in the Navy on the USS Missouri Recommissioning Tour as a photojournalist in the 1980’s. Sherry is proud to have a family who have served this great country!

Thank you Grandpa Bob and every veteran. We salute you!

Sherry Erickson, Owner & Operations Manager (shown here with daughters Morgan, Taylor, Morgan, husband Paul, Calloway and Ashley)

With Respect, Honor and Gratitude Thank you to all who have served.

2915 Easy Street, Wenatchee

509.663.2548

www.boswellsfurniture.com

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

JERRY A. LAWRENCE

U.S. Navy 1984–1990

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erry enlisted into the U.S. Navy in April of 1984. He completed basic training and Corps School Training in San Diego, California. His Military Occupational Specialty was a Navy Corpsman. He worked as an 8489 Orthopedic Technician while stationed at Naval Hospital San Diego or as the old timers refer to it as “The Pink Palace.” In May 1985, he received orders to train with the Marines at Camp Pendleton.

Once he arrived, he was assigned to the FMF division for training. He was not a Marine, but was very well respected and was always called “Doc.” After serving six months at Camp Pendleton, Jerry returned to The Pink Palace to finish serving and he was honorably discharged from active duty, but remained in the U.S. Navy Reserves for three years until May 1990.

In Jerry’s own words, “I may not have gone

JACOB D. CREIGLOW U.S. Navy 2006–2011

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etty Officer 2nd Class Jacob D Creiglow was born in Reno, Nevada on August 10, 1988 and moved to Eastern Washington shortly after that.

In 2005, Jacob moved to Leavenworth and enlisted in 2006 right before graduation. Boot camp was in Great Lakes MI from August 2006 to February 2007 and was then stationed with NOSC Spokane Support Detachment for the FRANK cable in Guam until 2011.

During that time, Jacob married Kristin Nelson and has 4 children. Elizabeth in 2008, Aaron and Judah in 2009 and Olivia in 2013.

Jacob’s story was proudly submitted by In-Laws Michael & Leslie Nelson.

to war, but I simply did what thousands of others did in support of our country. I was then and still am today very patriotic for this great country of ours. I am proud to be a Navy Corpsman.”

Jerry is an amazing family man, friend, co-worker and big brother. I have always looked up to him. He’s smart, funny, hard-working and an all-around great guy! It never ceases to amaze me that he is incredible at every sport that he plays. (Basketball, Baseball, Football, Track, Senior Softball, and even Golf) Growing up I never got tired of being asked, “Are you Jerry Lawrence’s little sister?” I would just smile and say, “Yes I sure am!” I love you Bro and I am proud to call you my brother.

Jerry’s story was lovingly submitted by his sister, Laura.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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BRIANNA M. (NELSON) LOHSE U.S. Navy 2008–2012

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etty Officer 2nd Class Brianna (Nelson) Lohse was born in Kirkland, Washington in 1986 and raised in Peshastin, Washington. She attended the schools of the Cascade School District from kindergarten through fifth grade, Upper Valley Christian School from sixth through 10th grade, and later graduated from Cascade High School in 2005.

Brianna began her college education at Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa, Idaho in the fall of 2005 and remained there through 2006. She then transferred to Wenatchee Valley College and obtained her Associates of Arts and Sciences in March 2008.

In October 2008, Brianna shipped off to Navy boot camp in Great Lakes, Illinois. By that

following January, she was in Pensacola, Florida for job specific training. At the completion of this training, Brianna joined the fleet and was stationed in Fort Meade, Maryland. During her time there, she met a Marine, Kevin Lohse, and they were married in September 2010.

In April 2012, Brianna separated from active duty service to begin a family. Her son Gavin was born on April 26, 2012 and her daughter Riley was born on Feb. 17, 2014.

Brianna and her family are currently living in North Carolina, where her husband continues to serve in the United States Marine Corps.

Brianna’s story was proudly submitted by her parents Michael & Leslie Nelson.

KEVIN C. LOHSE

U.S. Marines 2008–current

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taff Sergeant Kevin Charles Lohse was born in Queens, New York in March of 1990. In the fall of 1992 he moved Jacksonville, Florida to be raised by his father, Kevin John Lohse. Kevin attended St. Josephs’ Catholic School from first through sixth grade, Mandarin Middle School for seventh and eighth grade, and graduated from Mandarin High School in June of 2008.

After graduation, Kevin went through recruit training aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, South Carolina. After completing his initial training pipeline, Kevin was stationed

in Fort Meade, Maryland where he deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, met a sailor named Brianna Nelson who he later married, and had his son Gavin. In December of 2012 Kevin and his family moved from Fort Meade, Maryland to Camp Pendleton, California where he deployed on the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and had his daughter Riley.

In October of 2016 Kevin and his family moved to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina where he deployed to Iraq and is still stationed.

Kevin’s story was proudly submitted by In-Laws Michael & Leslie Nelson.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

RICHARD LEONARD U.S. Navy 1965–1968

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ichard was born and raised in Wenatchee, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in February 1965. He was stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas for his first year, going through Fire Controls/ Weapons Department Training.

He was then assigned to the USS Coral Sea for two years and nine months. After discharge in December 1968, he attended Wenatchee Valley College for two years and worked as a boiler maker until his retirement.

He is now residing in Wenatchee and is associated with various veterans groups in the area.

Richard is a proud veteran and submitted his own story.

MARIA G. LUBERTS U.S. Army 1958–1991

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umsies” as she is lovingly know as, joined the Women’s Army Corp at the age of 22 beginning her service at Fort McArthur in Alabama. Maria was a typing school administrative specialist. She soon became the Major’s secretary moving to Fort Sam in Houston, Texas. There she met Alfred John Luberts, Jr. and they married.

They received orders to Germany where Maria served as the only woman in her office.

Maria was in Germany when “the wall” went up. She stood guard at the entry to Frankfurt, Germany. Maria had her first daughter, Elaine in Frankfurt and at the time, she was an E4 Specialist when she had to discharge because

women with children weren’t allowed in the Army at the time. Maria was soon going to have her second daughter, Jackie and moved “back home” to Texas where Jackie was born.

In 1965, women with children were allowed in the Army and Maria joined the Army Reserve in which she served until she was 55 years old retiring as an E7 Sergeant First Class. Maria also began working as a civilian Naval employee in the 70s where she was a secretary. Maria became the first woman intelligence analyst and also became a ship building quality assurance specialist retiring at 65 years old.

Maria’s story was proudly made possible with the sponsorship from 3J’s Orchard.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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CHARLES A. ‘ALAN’ LUDWIG U.S. Air Force 1988–1994

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lan graduated from High School in Enumclaw in 1987. After high school he went straight to work and got his first full time job doing data entry at a bank in Seattle. What he really wanted was to be able to afford to go to school and marry his high school sweetheart Jodie Hand, and he saw the Air Force as a chance to do both.

So, in 1988 Alan enlisted and went to Arabic language training at the Presidio of Monterey.

During Christmas break that same year, Alan and Jodie were married. Alan eventually completed his technical training and was assigned to duty at RAF Mildenhall in England. He arrived in England in June 1990, and in August 1990 Sadam Hussein ordered elements of the Iraqi Republican Guard to push south across the boarder into Kuwait and “liberate” the 19th province of Iraq. Shortly thereafter Alan was deployed in support of Operation Proven Force. During the Gulf War Alan flew 26 combat and combat support missions over Northern Iraq identifying and jamming enemy military radio communications. For this he was awarded the Air Medal. Over the next three years Alan was deployed to use his language skills to support the U.S. military mission in Iraq many times. By the time he departed England three years

later he had spent two of those years deployed.

After his enlistment was up in 1993 Alan and Jodie returned to the United States. Alan got his degree in mathematics along with a teaching certificate and Jodie completed her nursing degree.

They returned to Washington in 1997 and started their career and family. They have three children.

In 1998, Alan started work at Microsoft where he works today. Jodie, after working as a labor and delivery nurse and the raising their children, recently returned to work as an elementary school nurse. They have been married 31 years and counting Alan would say our community and our nation has done a good job of recognizing his service, and he’s grateful for the recognition. But Alan would also be the first to point out that for every soldier, airman, and seaman who served in harm’s way there are family and friends at home who sacrifice as well. They don’t put up banners or award medals for the loved ones. So, the next time you see the mom, dad, or spouse of a servicemember who supported them from home, thank them for their service too.

Alan’s story was proudly submitted by NCW Appraisal.

JAMES C. LYNCH U.S. Navy 1943–1946

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ames entered the U.S. Navy on March 3, 1943 in Spokane. His father had to sign consent papers at the Navy Recruiting Station as he was just 17 years old at the time. James admitted he took one look at a huge wood pile left in his front yard and knowing he was going to be expected to cut it, he got a ride with the mailman going to Spokane where he attempted to enlist.

He was sent to Farragut, Idaho Naval Training Center where he was assigned to the Radio School Training Center and the Electrical Engineering Center. These assignments were chosen because of his ability to type. He had learned to type at Tonasket High School. He was awarded the Ranking of Radioman 3rd Class and assigned to San Francisco as Radioman 3rd Class on a small ship known as a “Tuna Clipper” by the crew. It was communicating with ships in the Theater of the Pacific Fleet. He mastered Morse Code and had a successful tour of duty prior to the attack on Hawaii in 1945. The Battle of Borneo was high in his memory of visiting small islands in the Pacific Theater.

Accommodations awarded were: u The Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal u The Philippine Liberation Medal u Good Conduct Medal

u World War II Victory Medal u The Foreign and Sea Service World War II

Honorable Mention In his discharge papers on March 18, 1946 was a signed statement from Omar N. Bradley, General Army Administrator.

James then attended and graduated from Gonzaga Law School and established a law practice in Wenatchee. He held office in the Prosecuting Office while establishing his professional office of Lynch, Kuntz and Hamilton. In 1976, he ran for Mayor of the City of Wenatchee. He successfully served for four terms totaling 17 years! He then became a Chelan County Commissioner where he served a four-year term. He also served as a Chelan County Superior Court Judge. James believed in service to his community and enjoyed his time in serving in these capacities.

He and his wife Grace shared a family of 10 children and used to joke that “life was never dull.”

James died in 2005 and left us all laughing and crying with his wonderful Irish jokes.

James story was proudly submitted in collaboration with is loving wife Grace and fellow veteran and former law partner Wes Hensley.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

JOSHUA R. MCALVEY U.S. Marines 2003–2007

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oshua Ross McAlvey was born and raised in Chelan. Friday, Dec. 21, his mom remembers the day, his eyes wide open gazing at her that evening just after 7 p.m. All growing up Josh was very active, into all sports and very athletic. He had a passion for football and baseball, he was very good at sports as well. He was always honest, loving, kind and loyal. He was also a very good brother to his only sister Erin, who was also his best friend growing up.

Josh enlisted in the Marines as soon as he graduated high school in 2003. He served for four years, and spent time in Iraq as a Lance Corporal on the EOD security team. After his tour in Iraq he became a MP in California where he finished out his time as a Marine.

He later moved back home to Washington where he met his wife Kendal in March 2011.

She was also a born and raised Chelan girl. He taught his passion for fishing to her, and they fell madly in love. They spent the first several years going on fishing trips. He helped raise her son Hayden who was 2 at the time. They made

it official April 8, and would marry the same day seven years later. Josh and Kendal decided to have more children and were expecting their first child together, Jordyn, during the wedding ceremony. Josh was prince charming and treated his wife like a queen, he loved to cook gourmet dinners for the family. Cooking was also one of his many talents and passions.

He was an extraordinary husband and loving father who was always playing with the kids and teaching them everything he knew about sports and the ways of the world. The kids adored him, as did his wife.

Josh passed away in 2020 at the age of 35. His wife was expecting his unborn son at the time who she name Royce in July 2020. Josh had picked out that name for a boy.

He is solely missed by his parents, sister Erin, his children; Jordyn, Hayden and Royce, his wife Kendal, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, and many friends he made along the way.

Josh’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Kendal and supported by the Biddle Foundation.

LORNE W. MCCANDLISH U.S. Navy 1967–1976

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orne was born in Portland, Oregon on July 3, 1949. At a young age his family moved to East Wenatchee where he graduated from Eastmont High School in 1967.

Lorne enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1967, where he proudly served his country for over nine years in the submarine force. After attending Boot Camp in San Diego, California, ET “A” School, then Submarine School in New London, CT. Lorne reported to the USS Harder (SS 568) in San Diego.

During his tour on the USS Harder (SS 568) Lorne qualified in submarines and

twice deployed to WESTPAC, earning the Vietnam Service Medal with three stars while conducting Special Operations. He attended ED “B” School in Treasure Island, California, and was later assigned to the Periscope Repair Shop at the base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Lorne was honorable discharged form the nave in 1976 and returned to the Wenatchee Valley to start his own business, “McCandlish Electrical and Mechanical” which flourished for many years. Lorne passed in November 2017.

Lorne’s Hero story was submitted by his very proud wife Jo A. McCandlish.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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WIN MCLAUGHLIN

U.S. Navy 1944–1946

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hen WWII ended most of the farms in the Puyallup Valley were being run by locals who had taken over for the Japanese owners. Win’s father and mother were in this group. Win was given an exemption to help with the farm.

Before the exemption was up he enlisted in the Navy rather than wait to be drafted in the Army. He went to training school in Minneapolis and at the end of that, he was sent to the South Pacific. He spent his time in Australia and New Guinea to serve on a Sub Supply Base until the end of the war.

He married Gloria while he was still in the Navy. He went to college and earned his teaching degree. But instead of teaching, he went to work for Boeing and retired from over 35 years later. Gloria and Win have 3 sons, 2 grandchildren, and now 5 great-grandchildren.

Win’s story was proudly submitted by his son Bryan.

FRED W. MUNSON U.S. Army 1969–1972

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red was born in Wenatchee in 1946.

He graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1966 and attended Wenatchee Valley College.

Fred Moved to Oxnard California in the summer of 1969 and went into the Army at the end of that year. He served in Vietnam from 1970 to 1972 in S-2 operations with the 101st Airborne. Attached to the 1st and the 5th Army for operation Lam Son 719. He finished his tour in Vietnam in Hue. Received the bronze star for meritorious serve.

Fred returned to Oxnard California and worked for Ocean Labs of California until moving back to Wenatchee in 1976. Worked for Tree Top Cashmere for 25 years as a supervisor.

Joined the Chelan County Sheriff Reserves after graduating the academy in 1995. Retired from Tree Top and was a provisional Sheriff’s Deputy until retiring from the Sheriff’s Department in 2006.

From 2006 to 2011, worked at Central

Washington Hospital as Chief of Security, retired in 2011. From 2011 to 2013 he worked as a consultant in Hospital Security on the west side of the state.

Fred got into cycling in 2007 thanks to his daughter who bought him his first bike to ride to work while at CWH. He really got the bicycle bug and built his own bike from a race frame a friend of mine gave him. Became a member of the Wenatchee Valley Velo Club and later became president. He bike around 3500 miles a year with friends who also like cycling.

When Fred is not biking, he spends his time traveling with his wife Carolyn who was his High School sweet heart. They have been married 52 years. They are members of the Lake Chelan Yacht Club and have a family place at the club vila.

Fred’s story was proudly submitted by Bob and Julee Lenderman.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

GEORGE B. NELSON U.S. Navy 1943–1946

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eorge was born 1923 in Oak Park, Minnesota, the youngest of five children. At an early age his family moved to Northwood, Iowa. He graduated from Northwood High School in 1940, as valedictorian of his class. He enrolled at Iowa State College in Ames, Iowa, but his college education would be interrupted by WWII. In 1943 he enlisted in the Navy. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Midshipmen School at Columbia University in New York City, NY, George served as Chief Engineer on the destroyer USS Landsdowne. The Landsdowne participated in many battles and engagements in the Pacific Theater, including Okinawa, Guadalcanal and Guam. At the end of the war, the USS Landsdowne was located in Tokoyo Bay and was responsible for transporting the Japanese delegation to the USS Missouri for formal surrender ceremonies. In 1946, George was honorably discharged as Lieutenant j.g. In the same year, he received a Bachelor of Science

in Architectural Engineering from Iowa State.

George married his high school sweetheart, Bonny Sue Sharp in 1944. George owned and operated Nelson Hardware in Northwood until 1959. He was an architectural engineer for Wallace, Holland, Kastler and Schmitz. In 1947 he and Bonny moved to San Francisco, California where George worked for the U.S. Department of Defense in San Bruno, California.

In 1986, George retired, and he and Bonny moved to Wenatchee, where he lived until his death in 2019 at the age of 96. Throughout his life and in retirement, he pursued many hobbies and interests, fully enjoying the freedoms, independence and other blessings afforded to him by being a citizen of the United States of America. Most of all, George dedicated his life to Jesus Christ.

George’s story was proudly sponsored by Tamara Dezellem.

VIRGIL ‘CHARLES’ NEW, SR.

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class (SFC) 1956–1976

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irgil “Charles” New was born in Modesto, California in 1939. He was one of thirteen children born to Virgil L. and Nora New. He entered the U.S. Army in 1956 and retired in 1976.

He proudly earned the rank of U.S. Army sergeant first class during his service.

Although he never spoke of it, he was highly decorated and was awarded many medals during his 20 years of service. Dad served two tours in Vietnam. His first tour was with a platoon that walked with tanks. On his second tour he did recon. I know that he received two purple hearts. One was for a gunshot wound to the leg and the other for a knife wound to the back. He was also given the bronze star for bravery in combat. In addition, he received an aviation medal for bravery under fire during a helicopter landing.

Dad refused to talk about what he went through in Vietnam, so I don’t have much infor-

mation. I do know it affected him to a great extent. He was a very humble man and never spoke of his service, but he was honored to have served his country.

As a rifle instructor he was a very good shot and instructed recruits on how to shoot and use their rifle. At the start of Desert Storm, he was asked if he would be willing to come back to help train for combat situations if needed. He never had to go but was ready and willing to do so if needed.

Upon retiring from the Army, he spent the greater part of the next 20 years living and working mostly in Chelan and Wenatchee. He had seven children. He died in 1999, in Laughlin, Nevada and was buried with military honors in Oakdale, California.

Virgil’s story was proudly submitted by his son Kevin New and family.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

RONALD O’NEAL U.S. Navy 1964–1969

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onald served in the Navy from 1964-1968, after finishing college and attending officers candidate school.

Ronald served on the destroyer USS Joseph Strauss based in Yokosuka, Japan and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Ronald’s story was proudly submitted by NCW Appraisal.

For every moment of peace...

For every day of grace and greatness...

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

RICHARD ‘RC’ PENHALLEGON, AKA PENNY U.S. Army 1945–1948

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was born Oct. 3, 1925 in Wenatchee. He was raised by his mother and father along with his two brothers and attended school in Wenatchee his entire childhood.

In 1945, WWII was in progress and at the age of 20, “RC/Penny” felt obligated to join the U.S. Army to serve his country. His duties while in the service during this time included being part of “Occupation Force” that secured Hiroshima, Japan after the atomic bomb had been released to insure order in that country. Upon returning to the USA, he became a Heavy Armory Instructor for the U.S. Army until his service was complete.

After five years of civilian life and during the outbreak of the Korean War, “RC/Penny” was called back to duty to assist. Upon reassignment he was stationed in Yakima as a Fire Arms Instructor to train the young soldiers that were to fight in the conflict. During his time in Yakima, his ability as a leader and a soldier was noticed by the commanding officers and he was assigned to be the General’s Aide.

Upon completing his second term of service

in a second war, “RC/Penny” returned to his hometown of Wenatchee to continue his life.

Shortly after returning he became a member of the American Legion Post 10. With his love of music, shortly thereafter he joined the Drum and Bugle Corp playing bugle and bass drum representing the American Legion and the city he loved. (Note: His bass drum is currently hanging on the wall inside the American Legion identifying the years of competitions won.)

“RC/Penny” very quickly became involved with the cause of the Legion and in conjunction with fellow member Mr. Bill Kenton, negotiated and purchased the land, negotiated and managed the contract with the contractor to build the “new” American Legion Building as it sits today at 208 Wenatchee Ave. (Note: He was a member of the Legion for almost 70 years). This said, we could not dispute the patriotism and unconditional love he had for his country, his home and his fellow veterans. A true “Home Town Hero.”

“Rc/Penny’s” story was proudly submitted by the American Legion Post 10.

RICHARD PERKINS

U.S. Army 1969–1989

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ichard was born in San Diego in 1950.

He was the third of four children.

His childhood was carefree and full of sports, he played baseball and Pop Warner football. A week after graduation from high school following a long family tradition, he joined the Army.

He attended Basic Training at Fort Ord, California and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Rucker, Alabama as a helicopter door gunner. After a 15 day leave, he received orders assigning him to South Vietnam. After in-processing at the 90th Replacement Battalion he was assigned to Charlie Company, 227 Assault Helicopter Bn. After a few months Richard was assigned his own helicopter and made the Crew Chief of it. In the 18 months he served with the First

Cavalry Division, Richard flew over 1000 hours and was promoted from E-3 up through E-5.

Upon his return from overseas, he spent two weeks of his leave with a Nam buddy, Dan Beattiger in East Wenatchee. He was then assigned to Fort Knox, Kentucky where he served in the remainder of his enlistment and after ETS returned to San Diego. A phone call from his Wenatchee buddy telling him of a job opportunity, Richard moved to Wenatchee.

Richard joined the local Army National Guard unit eventually attaining the rank of 1st Sgt. In 2019 at the age of 68 “Rabies” passed on.

Richard’s story was proudly submitted by a group of anonymous donors who did this to honor their friend.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

BARRY PORT

U.S. Army 1970–1971

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Written by Russ Speidel

member of the Wenatchee High School Class of 1966, Barry Port was All-American in every way: u Champion wrestler for the Panthers at WHS u Tuba player and member of the Golden Apple Band u Excellent student u Always a better friend u Active with his LDS Church u Played football for the Cougars at WSU u Leader of his peers Barry Port was true, honest and always willing to help another. As a young man, Barry showed great promise for the future, for his community and our country. Losing Barry to the War in Vietnam is an incalculable loss for all of us.

Barry is buried in the Wenatchee Cemetery next to his brother Scott. The location is the northwest corner just east of the mausoleum building.

Written by Dick Crawley Barry was a soft-spoken but serious individual who was always focused on the task at hand. He neither smoked nor drank, a rarity in our Troop. His balance of judgment was the reason why he was flying as co-pilot to check and evaluate Mark’s performance as an aircraft commander.

We were flying South, just east of the Rockpile, a landmark, when I saw, out of the corner of my eye, a fast mover heading directly toward us at the same altitude.

“Fox four, nine o’clock, break formation!”

(NOTE: Lead ship was supposed to drop altitude, ships two and three were supposed to break left and right respectively and trail was supposed to gain altitude.)

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H As the jet passed in front of me, I could actually see the rivets in the aircraft, seemingly close enough to reach out and touch each and every one.

The flight resumed formation and the chatter began, “Shit!”, “What the hell was he doing so low?” a few expletives and a collective “Phew!”

While refueling and rearming at Vandy, I asked if everyone and their aircraft were OK and received a “Roger” from the other ships.

It was almost 5 p.m. and we still had 15 minutes to reach the probable launch area which we assumed was on the East-West blue line south of our base at Quang Tri. (Rivers are shown as blue lines on maps, hence the name.)

We arrived on site and maintained 2,000 feet AGL and began scooping the area before we sent the “little bird” down for a closer look.

I was the highest of the aircraft with the Loach (OH-6) being the lowest with the Cobra gunships at an altitude between us.

Looking at my 11 o’clock, I saw one of the Cobras take an unusual altitude and watched the main rotor separate from the aircraft.

The blade struck Barry, the co-pilot, who was in the forward seat and there was a scream over the radio. Immediately dropping the collective, I started to follow Mark and Barry and pick them up as I had done so many times before.

Their ship slammed into the ground and an immediate fireball resulted from the fully armed ship with its full fuel tank.

The rest was and remains surrealistic to me. I augured into the fireball until my better judgement took control and I pulled out and failed to pick them up and felt I failed for the first time even though I knew it was impossible to go further without killing my crew. This was at 5:26 p.m., March 7, 1971.

Barry’s story was proudly submitted by WHS Classmate Russ Speidel.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

BILLIE R. PHILLEY U.S. Army 1969–1973

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illy “Razz” Phillie was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma before relocating with his family to Buckly, Washington.

He joined the Army in 1969 and served for four years, stationed in Germany.

After returning home he followed his father’s footsteps insulating pipe, including two separate trips working on the Alaskan Pipeline in Prudhoe Bay. At home he and his wife Kay raised three children along with three children from his wife’s previous marriage in Black Diamond, Washington. Razz was an avid outdoorsman, fisherman, hunter and loved to cross country ski and camp with his wife and kids.

At one point in the mid 1990s he held the designation of having taken the eighth largest bull elk in the state of Washington with a bow and arrow. Nicknamed “mountain man” by his children, he spent his later years hiking and exploring the wilderness, first in Alaska and later near Yakima.

Don’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Carolyn and supported by NCW Appraisal.

DON L. RASMUSSEN

U.S. Army Paratrooper 1965–1970

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even days following my graduation from Washington Seattle University in 1965, I was the in the Army and on my way to Fort Ord, California for boot camp (basic training). Following that training, my journey took me to Fort Polk, Louisiana for advanced infantry training.

Having requested airborne training prior to induction, I was sent to Fort Benning, Georgia for Army parachute training schooling which required an extra year of service.

Upon reporting to Fort Benning, I was greeted along with 999 other soldiers by the commanding officer of the school who informed us that jump training would be quite rigorous and that on average, over half of us would not graduate. He was not kidding! Upon graduation from jump school, only 220 remained. The same commanding officer who welcomed us, pleased with our performance, personally pinned our jump wings onto our battle dress.

My next stop turned out to be Fort Lee, Virginia for parachute rigger training. Following rigger training, I received an offer to become a rigger instructor there. While an instructor, I received my orders to report to the First Cavalry Division, Vietnam in the last part of 1965.

When I returned to the United States from Vietnam just before Christmas 1966, I requested and was granted permission to return to my former duty station at Fort Lee. I remained there until discharged on May 31, 1970.

The awards I received for my service include my rank of Sergeant, parachute badge, rifle sharpshooter’s badge, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Unit Citation with palm, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Don’s story was proudly written and submitted by himself.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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HARLEY V. ‘BUDDIE’ REED U.S. Navy 1939–1946

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arley was born Nov. 2, 1920 in Yakima.

He was the first of four kids. He lived in Omak for a few years before the family bought a dairy farm in Enumclaw. He attended Enumclaw High School, where he lettered in track and was active in the drama club. He graduated in June 1939.

He enlisted in the Navy in Oct, 1939 and was assigned to the aircraft carrier Lexington, CV 2. He didn’t talk much about the war, as most didn’t. A couple things he did talk about were his dislike of mutton (sheep). Seems they ate a lot of it in the Navy. Also he had the use of the “Old Man’s” launch when he didn’t need it. Used it for fishing.

The Pacific carrier fleet was supposed to be in Pearl Harbor on Dec 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked.

As luck would have it they received orders to deliver aircraft to Midway. They pulled out on Friday Dec 5.

The Japanese were targeting all three carriers, but had bad Intel as all were gone.

The Lexington was lost in the Battle of the Coral Sea on May 8, 1942. When the Captain finally gave the order to abandon ship they threw knotted ropes from the flight deck yo the water. One crewman named Harry went below and broke into the ships stores

and brought all the ice cream. The crew stood around eating it out of their helmets while calmly awaiting their turn to go down the ropes. All were picked out of the water by other ships and sent back to the Mainland for re-assignment.

Harley was assigned to another carrier, the USS Breton where he was promoted to Chief Bosun’s Mate until he was honorably discharged in Oct. 1945. He received the Silver Star.

He married Mae Hall, from North Bend and they moved to San Francisco. I was the first of three boys and after a year they decider to move back home. They bought a house in Renton and a TV so they could watch the Gold Cup race. He drove truck for Pacific Fruit and Produce.

In 1957, he got a dealership for a Richfield Service Station in Kent. In October of that year they bought a house on Lake Meridian, which is where we grew up. I learned a good work ethic at the station, starting working there in the 7th grade.

He passed away on Nov. 28, 2011, and now rest at Tahoma National Cemetery east of Kent. He was accorded military honors, complete with a 21-gun salute.

Here’s to a life well lived!

Harley’s story was proudly submitted by his son Rick.

GREG REIDER

U.S. Marines 1970–1992

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reg graduated from Eastmont High School and went to Marine Corps Recruit Training in San Diego, California. in July 1970. After graduating with honors, PFC Reider trained as an infantry machine gunner and was deployed to the Republic of Vietnam with Company M, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

Upon returning to Camp Pendleton, California.

L/Cpl Reider was directed to report to Marine Security Guard duty. After training in Arlington, Virginia he was assigned to the American Embassy, Helsinki, Finland and U.S. Mission, Geneva, Switzerland. During his tour in Helsinki he met his best friend and life long love, Eva Lindstrom.

They were married in December of 1974 in East Wenatchee.

Staff Sergeant Reider continued his Marine Corps service as a recruiter in Yakima. and Great Falls, Montana. After recruiting duty, Greg returned to Camp Pendleton as an Infantry Platoon Sergeant before receiving training and subsequent assignments in the fields of logistics and embarkation.

In 1980 he was deployed for a year in Okinawa, Japan as an embarkation chief and was promoted to

Gunnery Sergeant during that time.

In March of 1981, Greg transferred to Co. B., 4th Tank Bn. in Yakima as an active reservist and returned to East Wenatchee to assist with the family business after his father, Mr. Art Reider, passed suddenly from a heart attack. As a reservist he trained at Camp Lejuene, N.C., Twenty-nine Palms, CA, and Huckleberry Creek at Mt. Rainier.

Greg retired in September 1994 as First Sergeant of Company A, 4th Landing Support Battalion in Tacoma, WA. His service awards include the Navy Marine Corps Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Marine Corps Reserve Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation Ribbon, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Greg retired from AgroFresh Inc., a Dow Chemical Company subsidiary, in December 2014 after serving 11 years as Manager of Global Service Delivery and Logistics. He currently resides in Yakima.

Greg’s story is proudly submitted by his sister Sandy Gellatly.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

EDGAR A. RENIFELD, JR.

U.S. Air Force 1993–present

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dgar was born and raised in Wenatchee as the oldest of four brothers. He graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1991. Their father, also Edgar, served in the United States Air Force as well, including a tour of duty in Vietnam.

The three younger brothers all served as U.S. Marines. Other extended family members served in the US Navy back through the Korean War and World War II. Edgar joined the Air Force Reserves in 1993 as a jet engine mechanic for C-141B aircraft with the 446th Maintenance Squadron and continued in that unit until 2008 when he moved to the 446th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron as an Aircraft Maintenance Unit Superintendent for C-17 aircraft. He served as a First Sergeant, Squadron Superintendent, and most recently as the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 446th Airlift Wing.

LOREN F. RICHARD U.S. Army 1953–1956

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s his two brothers before him, Loren (Frederick) Richard enlisted in the military in the mid 1950s.

He joined the 82nd Airborne to fulfil his sense of adventure.

The Green Beret offered military training only experienced by a few select soldiers.

When asked what he did as a Green Beret, as a good soldier, he simply answered, “I did what I was told to do.”

Today he honors all Veterans by proudly attending local Veteran’s Day Parades.

Loren’s story was proudly submitted by his daughter Cindy Pennington and granddaughter Anna Pennington.

Edgar has been married to his wife Erica for 21 years here in Wenatchee. Edgar is a Captain for the Wenatchee Police Department and Erica is a Registered Nurse at Central Washington Hospital. They have several pets and enjoy camping and travel.

For Edgar, military service has always been about the people around him. He has been fortunate to travel to Germany, Japan, Guam, Alaska, and several other locations around the country over the period of his service. In the end, our military is a small world. The service members you meet today may cross your path again on the other side of the planet. Impacting those lives through friendship, mentoring, guidance, or simply a passing moment matters most.

Edgar’s story was proudly submitted by Frank Kuntz, CPA.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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RICHARD F. ROBERT U.S. Army Captain 1964–1967

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orwich Military Academy 1960-64.

Young man at age 25 sent to Vietnam in 1967 as Captain of 67th Engineer Company. No way to properly or emotionally document the protection, dedication, and respect of Captain Robert to and for his Company. Captain Robert lost two brave Soldiers of his Company. To this day, Captain Robert still feels the pain and loss of the Soldiers he felt responsible for.

“They Served, they Fought, they Died; and received neither their Country’s Glory nor their Country’s Compassion. A Tribute to them: Vietnam Heroes” Richard’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Peggy.

WILLIAM P. RUST U.S. Army 1971–1973

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ill was drafted into the U.S. Army in November, 1971. He was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, for basic training and completed AIT at Fort Bliss, Texas. In February 1972 he was sent to South Korea.

He was stationed at a R.C.4 Compound, part of the 61st Air Defense Artillery. The Compound was 2 miles from the DMZ. His company was first line of defense and, at all times had to be war-ready within 20 minutes.

Bill was a Squad Leader in the 3rd Platoon. His Platoon was responsible for operating M163A1 Vulcan Cannons equipped with a 20 mil.

Gatling guns. The 3rd Platoon was recognized as the Honor Platoon because of their marksmanship and expertise with their equipment

and jobs. During one assigned war game exercise in full camouflage, Bill’s squad was the only one which could not be located. The General in attendance was so impressed with the squad that he had his helicopter fly him into the field to their Vulcan to personally meet Bill and congratulate his squad. Bill was transferred back to Fort Lewis in April 1973.

He was honorably discharged in November 1973. After his discharge Bill worked as a Ford auto mechanic for over 40 years. Bill and his wife have two daughters, four granddaughters, and one great-granddaughter. Bill and his wife currently live in East Wenatchee.

Williams’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Loretta.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

ANDREW D. SANDOVAL U.S. Air Force 1971–1974

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ndrew “Andy” Duane Sandoval, was born in Richland in 1952 and grew up on the Wenatchee Heights in Wenatchee. Andy led a life of service to his country starting with his United States Air Force enlistment. Andy would later become a photography teacher, work in law enforcement, become an LPN in the medical field, a juvenile criminal rehabilitation specialist and finally a counselor working with both Recovery Innovations and Catholic Family Charities, before his retirement.

While his father was busy fighting with the U.S. Army in Korea and Vietnam, Andy was raising his brothers and sisters back at home. At the age of 16, Andy moved to an army base in Germany, where he played football and began his love of photography and art. Finding his way back to Wenatchee, Andy was the yearbook photographer and was even employed by the Wenatchee Police Department as their Police Photographer. After graduating from Wenatchee High School in 1971, Andy enlisted in the USAF. Photoprocessing Specialist was Andy’s primary specialty, but his passion for Law Enforcement started during the USAF as well which trained him to be a Military Policeman. The first active duty station Andy served with was the 834th Combat Support Group (TAC) and the Security Police Squadron at Eglin AFB. As an MP, Andy enjoyed patrolling and guarding aircraft on the flight line. Later in his service, Andy was sent to Taiwan, where he created a photography exhibit of his own work. Andy travelled with the USAF and continued his work as an

MP along with photography, moving after basic training in Lackland AFB, Texas, to Lowry AFB in Denver, Colorado to Eglin AFB in Western Florida and eventually leading him to Taiwan, in the Republic of China. Andy attained the rank of SGT E-4 on the USAF. Andy completed his USAF service in 1974 and returned to the USA and taught photography at Denver Free University before returning home to Wenatchee and entering the law enforcement field. Photography, music, art and flight were passions of Andy’s and he enjoyed hang gliding, water coloring, playing guitar and going to aviation shows. Eventually, Andy created a family with the love of his life, Beverly, whom he married in 1980 and together raised three children. Central Washington University was Andy’s alma mater and he graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice in 1985. Andy worked for Canyon View Group Home for 20 years and impacted hundreds of lives with his ability to share empathy and his knowledge of recovery.

Every year, Andy looked forward to hunting camp with his relatives and especially spending time with his brother Greg. Andy was known to be the funny man along with the photographer at every event, from birthdays, to weddings, to family gatherings. Andy and Bev were married for 40 years and enjoyed life as their children raised several grandchildren. Andy, passed away in June 2020, leaving behind a legacy of a servant’s heart and love for his family, Volkswagens, art and flight.

Andy’s story was proudly submitted by his family.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

ROBERT ‘SAL’ SALCIDO

U.S. Air Force 1966–1969

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al enlisted in the Air Force a few months after high school graduation in Paramount, California. After basic training in San Antonio, Texas, Sal attended medic training school at Maxwell Air Base near Montgomery, Alabama.

His first duty station was at the Strategic Air Command Base about six miles from Amarillo, Texas, where he saw his first snowfall.

In his field — equivalent to a public health inspector — he performed various air quality tests in both buildings and aircraft, such as the mammoth B-52 Stratofortress. He also worked with the local public health sector in tracking down and treatment of service members with venereal disease.

After a year at Amarillo he received orders for Wheelus Air Base outside Tripoli Libya. Added to his other duties was off base officer housing inspection.

In the early stages of the Six Day War of June 1967 between Israel, Egypt, Jordan and Syria, Sal was in Tripoli with his interpreter, Mamoud, when they both noticed a tension in the village landlords. It turned out to be the first day of the

Dear Veterans, Those of us who have not served will never fully understand the sacrifices you have made both in times of peace and of war.

We will never fully understand what you were required to do or how you were able to do it.

We will never fully understand the depth of your scars.

But what we can offer you is this: We see you.

We recognize your humanity.

And we send you a kind of love that is gentle, patient and healing.

With Blessings and Gratitude, we ask that you remember you are loved and highly regarded with respect.

Thank you.

Smithson Insurance Services Inc

Six Day War and rumors (later proved false) that Israel had bombed Cairo with American made jets.

We made it back to base with little more than shouts and raised fists, but some other airmen were beaten and their vehicles set on fire. All military dependents ended up being evacuated (6,400 of the total base population of 9000) and F-100C fighter jets positioned inside the base gates with their 20 millimeter guns trained on the gates.

After an 18 month tour, Sal finished off his last year of service at Hanscom Field, just outside of Boston. The time in Libya was very instructive in learning a very different set of cultural norms, and having the opportunity to travel through Europe on leave; among other things, touching the Berlin wall and touring part of East Berlin behind that wall.

Sal and his wife Joni have raised their family here and remain in Wenatchee, where he is approaching the 18 year mark as an employee of the local YMCA. Sal’s story was proudly submitted by the Wenatchee Valley YMC.

Call 662-6221

www.CallPatriot.net

Service is our Family Tradition Joseph Majoric LaVergne had a wife and a baby boy at home when he was drafted to serve in the US Army during World War II. He gladly served in the Philippines, New Guinea and in Japan as part of our post-war presence. Corporal LaVergne returned home and in 1953 pursued the American dream by starting his own plumbing business. These skills were passed down to his son, Lowell, who opened his own plumbing business in 1971.

Lowell would sometimes take his son, Matt, on calls and Matt would hold the flashlight while his dad repaired pipes. In 2006, Matt opened his own business, Patriot Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. Patriot strives to uphold the same standard of dedicated service that Grandpa Joe stood for all those years ago.

Thank you Grandpa Joe and every veteran. We salute you!

Matt LaVergne, Owner & Service Manager. (shown here with sons Oscar and Riley and wife Melanie)

509-884-5195 | smithsoninsuranceservices@gmail.com

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

KENNETH L. SANDHOP U.S. Army 1944–1947

U.S.

Army 1943-1947 May, Combat Infantryman, 164th Infantry Regiment, Americal Div Sgt., Troop E 5th Cav Reg 1st Cavalry Div, Squad Leader,. Supply Sgt. 9207 PSU TC Port Det Bronze Star with V 1 Cluster, Philippine Liberation, American Campaign, Asiatic Pacific Campaign (Northern Solomon, and Southern Philippines), WW II Victory, Army of Occupation Japan, Good Conduct Medal, Presidential Unit Citation.

Ken was proud of his military service as a member of the greatest generation. Called to serve as a draftee, after having worked for Boeing building B-17s, and working to recover battleships after Pearl Harbor at Bremerton Naval Shipyard. He entered service at Fort Lewis and went to Camp Roberts California for basic training at the Infantry Replacement Training Center, then on to Fort Ord California for additional training. He left San Francisco by boat to the South Pacific and arrived in New Caledonia.

He then went to Camp Tweas for training and interviews.

He arrived in Bougainville (Solomon Islands). He was among the last three selected and was sent to Company B 164th Infantry, Americal Division.

They were sent to Leyte, Philippines and had his 20th birthday while serving. You grew up in a hurry. Trusted those with you, because that’s all you had while sitting in a fox hole. Those men were as close as brothers could be. The 164th were North Dakota National Guard and

adopted him as a brother. The man who taught him how to survive was Sgt. Dave Nelson. On scouting patrol, Dave was shot. Ken was rescuing him when he was awarded the Bronze Star. Ken scouted on patrols and entered caves bringing out Japanese prisoners regularly. Being color blind he was not fooled by camouflage. They then went to Cebu about the time President Roosevelt died.

They prepared to invade Japan but atomic bombs were dropped, the war ended and they took over Atsugi Air Field and settled in. A point system determined who would go home first. The result was Ken was sent to the 1st Cavalry and reenlisted for 18 months. He came home to Fort Lewis. While on leave he met his future wife Dorothy LaSalle at Western Union and they married.

He separated from the U.S. Army. He then worked as a teamster delivering milk for Meadowgold, Arden and Darigold until retiring. He was a volunteer for Wenatchee Youth Baseball and Exchange Club. He was a longtime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and worked to help other veterans until he passed.

For more information, go to the website, www. kensstory.net. It goes from Ken’s birth to the 1990s. Dad was just one man who was in “The greatest generation” for all those men who put everything on hold to make the world a better place. I can only say THANK YOU. Ken’s story is proudly collaborated and submitted by Carl, Ron, Philip, Devin and Loren Sandhop.

DONALD R. SANGSTER

U.S. Navy 1964–1966

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on was born in Clarkston, Washington in 1943 to Robert and Elaine Sangster.

He spent his childhood in Anatone, Washington and finished up in Clarkston where he graduated in high school in 1961.

Following graduation, Don spent a few years working at Gray Buick in the parts department.

Don enlisted in the Navy in 1964. He was stationed active duty in Guam for two years.

After serving in the Navy, Don returned to the Lewis-Clark Valley and went back to Gray Buick. He got married and had three sons. He worked at several dealerships. Don has always been a very hard worker and a “nose to the grindstone” type of person. His work ethic paid off. In 1989 he purchased his own dealership

Pontiac, Buick, GMC, Oldsmobile and Cadillac in Wenatchee.

Don has a huge heart and is very active in his community, as shown with his participation in many of the local charities. Although vets hold a special place in his heart, he helps anyone, in any way that he can, from children to senior citizens. Don is someone that you can rely on.

Don and Cindy have been in the Wenatchee area for 30 years and truly love their community which both of them have given back so much to, and are thankful to the greater Weantchee valley.

Don’s story was proudly submitted by a group of anonymous donors who did this to honor their friend.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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DR. GENE SHARRATT U.S. Army 1967–1969

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ene is a proud military veteran (U.S. Army 1967-1969, Paratrooper, 173rd Airborne, Sgt. E-5; Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal). Like his father, a World War II veteran, Gene believes “freedom is not free,” and military service is one way to honor and defend the freedoms we enjoy. He completed both basic training and advanced combat training at Fort Lewis, before attending parachute “jump school” at Fort Benning, Georgia. From Fort Benning, Gene participated in intensive combat training at Fort Bragg, North Carolina before joining the 173rd Airborne Brigade for deployment in the highlands of Vietnam, from 1967 to 1969.

During his time in Vietnam, Gene attained the rank of Sergeant (Sgt.) E-5, and was awarded the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and the Parachute Badge. The 173rd Airborne Battalion participated in the Battle of

GUY SHARRATT U.S. Army 1968–1969

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uy, like his brother Gene, chose to serve their country in the U.S. Army.

Guy was a member of the Army 1st Air Cavalry Division and served in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969, before getting severally wounded by enemy shrapnel.

He received a Purple Heart, an Army Commendation Medal and won a Bronze Star for his “Heroic achievement in combat.” The Bronze Star Medal is the fourth highest ranking award given to brave or meritorious service.

Guy attained the rank of Specialists Four and a member of the 1st Cavalry Division Artillery and served with distinction during his tour in the service and Vietnam.

Guy’s brother Gene says, “He is a real hero in our family as far as I’m concerned. He paid a huge price for service to his country.”

Guy’s story was proudly submitted by his brother Gene and supported by The Center for Educational Effectiveness who feel honored to support Guy for this banner recognition.

Dak To and Hill 875. For their efforts, the 173rd Airborne Brigade was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation.

While superintendent of North Central Educational Service District, Gene helped organize a lead a POW (Prisoner of War) reunion, Honor by Listening Project, which included publishing the stories of 14 war veterans and former POWs from the Vietnam War. The project resulted in the 2001 publication, Returning with Honor: Stories of American Heroes. This project featured interviews of the POWs by Cashmere High School students and was strongly supported by the greater Wenatchee community.

Gene commented, “I am proud to have served my country and thank all of our veterans, daily, for their service.”

Gene’s story was proudly submitted by Colin Brine of Be Clearly.

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The Wenatchee World Visitors Guide | 2019

DANIEL A. SIMMONS

U.S. Army 2009–2014

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an was born in Wenatchee in 1989 to Keith and Rhonda Simmons. He grew up in East Wenatchee. Dan was active in sports throughout his school years, excelling in football and track. He graduated from Eastmont High School in 2008.

Dan enlisted and served in the 82nd Airborne 1-505th PIR Operation Enduring Freedom from 2009-2014. He served multiple deployments to Afganistan and was highly decorated.

Dan attained the rank of Sergeant due to his tremendous dedication and leadership skills.

Comments from his Commander regarding Dan and a recommendation for one of many awards were that Dan “showed his dedication to ensuring his platoon was ready for deployment as part of the Global Response Force by creating a platoon Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dealing with detainees. The SOP was incredibly thorough and well done and demonstrates his commitment to excellence.

His actions reflect great credit upon him, the 1st Battalion, 305th Parachute Infantry

Regiment, the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, the 82nd Airborne Division, and The United States Army.”

Upon the completion of his service to his country, Dan returned to his hometown of East Wenatchee and married his lovely wife Jillian.

Dan and Jillian were classmates at school, both graduating in 2008. They actually started “dating” long distance via Skype while Jillian was attending Washington State University and Dan was deployed to Afghanistan. After graduation from WSU, Jillian was living in Southern California. Over Labor Day Weekend 2012, Dan flew in to SoCal to visit Jillian, he proposed to her and then they left the next day to drive back to Fort Bragg where they stayed until Dan completed his service.

Dan and Jillian love living in the Wenatchee Valley and plan to make it their lifetime home.

Dan’s story was submitted by his in-laws, Cathie and Hank Lewis, who couldn’t be prouder of Dan and his service to our great country.

THOMAS LEE SNELL U.S. Army 1966–1968

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om was born December 6, 1944 in Kalispell Montana. His family moved to Mansfield, Washington in 1948 where they farmed wheat. Tom graduated from Mansfield High School in 1963 and worked on the family farm until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966.

Basic training was completed at Fort Ord, California and he went on to Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana. In his training he received several medals: Sharp Shooter for all weapons available, and good conduct in training.

Tom was deployed to Chu Che, Viet Nam on October 28, 1966. About 20 miles west of Saigon.

He was stationed with the 116th Assault Helicopter Company (AHC) Hornets, Yellow Jacket Platoon.

He was a crew member on the UH-1D Huey helicopter, where he earned 15 Air Medals. 1 medal for each 100 hours of flight service. In his non flight time he performed additional duties operating the company telephone and radio communications system. In 1967 Tom was wounded in action. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Foreign Service Medal, and the Viet Nam Combat Medal. After he was wounded, Tom completed his service at Fort Irwin, California.

Tom returned to Mansfield a Hero in 1968.

He worked with his family on the wheat farm.

In 1970 he joined the Mansfield Volunteer Fire Department / Douglas County Fire District 5. He spent the next 37 years as a volunteer including 15 years as the Fire Chief.

Later that summer Tom married Mary McShane.

They had their first of three sons in 1972. It was in 1973 that Tom began working with Douglas County Transportation and Land Services as an equipment operator. In 1991 he was promoted to the Mansfield Area Supervisor, charged with 11 employees. Tom retired from Douglas County in 1999.

Tom was elected to the Mansfield City Council in 1978 and became Mayor in 1990. Tom has served 29 years as Mayor of Mansfield, he is still Mayor today and has signed up to be Mayor for the next 4 year term. Among his many volunteer activities, Tom spearheaded the creation and development of the Mansfield History Museum. Tom Snell remains a service oriented, civic minded citizen.

Tom’s story was submitted by his proud and loving family.

The Wenatchee World Visitors Guide | 2019

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ROBERT E. SNYDER

U.S. Army Air Corp. 1942–1944

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ur hero was our father, Robert E. Snyder. Bob was born on May 30, 1921 and departed on June 19, 2015.

He was a Private of the 501st Signal Air Warning Regiment of the U.S. Army in WWll. He enlisted as a young student of almost 22 years of age in Wenatchee on May 19, 1942. He was an Aviation Cadet from Aug. 28, 1942 to July 3, 1943, and earning an Honorable Discharge on Sept.

21, 1944. He earned the awards of National Defense and Good Conduct.

He was the second son born to Burt and Ethel Snyder on May 30, 1921 and after his honest and faithful service to his country, returned to Washington finishing college with a business and accounting degree from the University of Washington. He later became president of the family-owned fruit tree business — Columbia and Okanogan Nursery (C and O Nursery) which is still in existence

over 110 years as of 2018.

Robert’s passion was flying, first learning at the original Pangborn Field in East Wenatchee and then transferring to a more advanced training at Boeing Field in Seattle and then back to Pangborn Field. Shortly after he was accepted to the highly prestigous advance training of aeronomics at Miners Field in Bakersfield, California.

He married Lottie Laverne Brost of Seatlle on Jan. 15, 1955 and welcomed three wonderful children, Theresa, Brian, and Jim, during their union. They were married over 50 years.

Robert served the lord, family and community in so very many ways, as he did his country, as well. He genuinely was a true hero to all that knew him.

Robert’s Hero story is submitted by his proud family, Jim Theresa and Brian Snyder.

JOHN R. SPEIDEL U.S. Army 1941–1979

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ohn Speidel was born on March 13, 1919, in Gackle, North Dakota, into a German-American farming family. John was raised on a large wheat farm in McLaughlin, South Dakota, with his parents, siblings, uncle, aunt and cousins.

In 1941, John was chosen by the Selective Service to serve in the military for five years. The values of hard work and dedication that he learned during the Great Depression assisted him in the military. While John entered the service as a recruit in the infantry, his natural leadership skills enabled him to attend Officer Candidate School. John was promoted through the ranks, and graduated from training on Dec. 31, 1942, without a single demerit to his name. For the next several months, in early 1943, John participated in training in California, South Carolina and Hawaii.

His last training site prior to deployment to the Philippines was Australia, where he was part of the troop buildup to discourage Japan from moving on that continent. From Australia, John was deployed to the Philippines.

Not long after his arrival in the Philippines, John experienced his first war injury. Though his wound was not serious enough to warrant leaving the South Pacific, he spent time in a military hospital and received the Purple Heart. After his recuperation, John was sent to Okinawa, Japan, from which he had many horrific memories. As a platoon leader in the 96th Infantry Division, Lieutenant Speidel’s leadership was essential to the survival of the men in his care. After 42 days and nights of brutal combat, sleeping in fox holes and stagnant water, John received the wound that sent him home. On April 1, 1945, he was hit in the arm with shrapnel and earned his second Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his bravery. The wound in his arm needed extensive attention and he was airlifted to Guam, where he was given medical care and round the clock penicillin shots to stave off infection. His injury required that he leave Okinawa, which he remembered as “a murderous place.” Because

John’s injury was too serious to heal within 30 days, he was sent back to the States.

John felt many mixed emotions about his military service. Though his faith in his country never wavered, Lt. John Speidel doubted the importance of his contribution, like many veterans. Even though he was a recipient of two Purple Hearts and one Bronze Star, he felt an overwhelming burden of guilt when he stepped off the troop ship in Los Angeles. While the crowd awaiting the returning heroes cheered and screamed, John broke down, feeling guilty to be returning with a lesser injury than several other veterans on his ship. To the end of his life, he expressed remorse for those who did not fare as well as he did in war.

Because he had not fully recovered at the time of his pending discharge, he was sent to Harmon General Hospital in Longview, Texas.

While recuperating there, he had an experience that shaped his life even more than his war years. John met Evalyn Rawlinson, a recent graduate of Baylor University School of Nursing, who was a Cadet Nurse attached to the U.S. Army. They fell in love and were married in Dallas, Texas, on Oct. 9, 1945. John signed up with the Army Reserve after his discharge and continued his involvement with the service. In 1950, John and Evalyn moved to Wenatchee. John was assigned to the 440th Civil Affairs Company, of which he became Commanding Officer, retiring in 1979 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Lt. Col. John Speidel’s hard work and entrepreneurial spirit, which he credited to lessons learned in the military, led him to open his own business. With the help and support of Evalyn, they owned and operated Speidel’s Department Store on Grant Road in East Wenatchee from 1960 to 1990.

After a life well lived, John Speidel died on July 29, 2003, in Wenatchee.

John’s story was submitted by his proud children, Jeff, Thom and Russ Speidel and their families.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LESTER G. SPRULING U.S. Army 1952–1954

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ene Spruling was born in Ellensburg in April 1931 to Grover and Nettie Spruling. He was the youngest of six and graduated from Ellensburg High School in 1950. He married Lorraine in April of 1952, just before being sent to basic training in San Diego, California.

In December 1952 he was sent to Korea where it was snowy and icy upon his arrival. He was handed a shovel and a pick for digging fox holes and building roads. He spied a CAT bulldozer and the driver asked if he knew how to drive one, because he was looking for a replacement driver so he could be sent home.

He built roads, learned how to keep the

bulldozer running and also kept the camp generators working too. He was shot at serval times and had bullet holes in his bulldozer and helmet to prove it. Even after the cease fire, his troop was still being shot at. He returned home in a hollowed out bomber with wood benches for seats.

He returned to the family farm in 1954 and he and his young wife started a dairy farm and milked cows for Darigold Farms for 35 years. He was born and lived his entire life on the family farm.

Lester’s Hero story was proudly submitted by his daughter Carrie Spruling Clark.

A.A. STEVENS

Minnesota Militia Civil War 1861–1864

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A. Stevens served during the Civil War in the Minnesota Militia, Third Regiment, and went south November 17, 1861, “into the Valley of Death” as later described in The Wenatchee World. The Third Regiment took part in many Civil War battles but Stevens was never wounded. Stevens’ Company at one point was pinned down in a fort by cannon bombardment for two days. Only two men of the Company were able to walk out under their own power.

Stevens was one of the two.

After the Battle of Shiloh, Tennessee, the Third Regiment began cautious movement against Beauregard’s line at Corinth, Mississippi. The Third Minnesota then marched for Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This general forward movement resulted in surrender in 1862. Stevens’ regiment was captured near Murfreesboro and held as prisoners.

Following their capture there was an Indian uprising in Minnesota. Indians were attacking towns, slaying women and children. An agreement was effected with the South to exchange the Minnesota Third Regiment prisoners for southern prisoners, allowing the Third Minnesota to go

home and battle Indians.

After order was restored in Minnesota, the Third Regiment was reorganized and again went into the southland to battle the Confederates. In 1863 the Third Regiment engaged in the Battle of Vicksburg, Little Rock and others.

After A.A. Stevens returned from his Civil War service November 14, 1864, he married Helen Chase in 1866. The family moved from Minnesota to Latah, Washington, in 1888 to engage in the grain business. In 1894 the family left Latah for Wenatchee, traveling by horse and wagon down Badger Mountain and across the Columbia River.

Stevens engaged in farming in the Maple and McKittrick Street area. The family raised seven children; many descendents are in the Wenatchee area today.

In 1918 Stevens was elected Chelan County Clerk of the Court for two terms.

A.A. Stevens, as a veteran of the Civil War, was an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR). This group of citizens helped acquire the Civil War era cannon now displayed at the Chelan County Courthouse Memorial Park in Wenatchee.

A.A.’s story was proudly submitted by his Great Grandson Mark Booker.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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GENE A. STEVENS U.S. Navy 1970–1996

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ene A. Stevens was born Nov. 25, 1947 in New Castle, Pennsylvania. He grew up in Orlando, Florida and graduated with a BA degree from USF. In 1970 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He trained as an Air Traffic Controller in Glynco, Georgia. Then he was stationed at Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida. In 1972, Gene was accepted into Officer Candidate School, NAS Pensacola, Florida, and commissioned as an Ensign. After being trained in Georgia at the Radar Intercept School, he was stationed at NAS Oceana, Virginia. and trained in the F-4 fighter planes. He served on the USS Forrestal from 73-74. In 1975 Gene was selected to train in the newest fighter jet, the F-14 Tomcat at NAS Miramar, California. He returned to NAS Oceana, Virginia and made two more Mediterranean deployments aboard USS Forrestal and USS America.

In 1978, Gene returned to NAS Miramar as a F-14 flight instructor. While stationed in San Diego, he met Sandy Gold and three years later they married. He was assigned to Squadron VF-2 at Miarmar and made three Pacific deployments on USS Ranger.

Service included: u 1983–1985 Detailer at Naval Air Command, Washington, D.C. u 1986–1992 Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of Squadron VF-51, Miramar Naval Air Station u 1994–1996 Commanding Officer of Naval Support Activity, Naples, Italy.

In 1996, after serving his country for 26 years and experiencing so many great adventures, Gene decided to retire. He had his retirement ceremony before leaving Naples, Italy.

He returned home to Springfield, Virginia with is wife Sandy and daughter Gina. He earned his Masters Degree in Education from Old Dominion University and became a Special Education teacher at Lake Braddock Secondary School, Virginia.

In 2006, Gene and Sandy decided to retire and move to Wenatchee to live closer to her family who had moved here in the ’80s. They love the friendly people and living in this beautiful Valley.

Gene’s story was proudly submitted by Mark Moehnert.

From recognizing our brave men and women to remembering those we have lost. We honor and thank all those who have served.

509-662-1800 | www.libke.com

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

DICK WARD

U.S. Navy 1943–1956

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ick was born on September 19, 1925, in Manson. He was raised and graduated from Manson in 1943, where he was then a young 17 years old and entering the Navy. Dick was a swimmer and a diver, so the Navy was the place for him. In boot camp, Dick was tasked with helping other recruits become swimmers, as some didn’t know how to swim.

Graduation from boot camp sent him to Vancouver to his ship, USS Shamrock Bay aircraft carrier, where he served as one-half of a two-man team of Air Traffic Controller for the ship. He traveled across the Atlantic Ocean a couple of times and then they were sent to war, including operations at Okinawa and Iwo Jima.

Dick and Dwayne were tasked with spotting danger, including Kamikazes trying to attack their ship and other ships around them. Dick grew up fast seeing the things that he witnessed.

One perk of being where he was, is the photo lab was next to his quarters, so he was able to get the second original copies of many photos, including the flag raising at Iwo Jima.

Dick’s ship returned to port in 1946, where

Dick was discharged from active duty and joined the Reserves, where he served another 10 years.

After the war, Dick married his wife Virginia, graduated from Wenatchee Valley Junior College and then attended Washington State University. He then worked for Alcoa for eight years, until the opportunity came up for him and a friend to partner up and open Wenatchee Paint and Glass, that he owned for 35 years.

Dick also was involved in forming Kiwanis Clubs here in Wenatchee and Manson, and he is a member of the American legion Post #10 Wenatchee and the VFW Post in East Wenatchee. Dick and his wife were into golfing and dancing, and they were dance instructors and blessed with two daughters. In 2016, Dick was named the Wenatchee Valley College Alumni of the Year. Dick is the 1st Vice Commander of Post #10, a position he has held for several years. He continues his life of service to his community and stays involved in many organizations and his church.

Dick’s story was proudly submitted by fellow heroes at American Legion Post #10.

JOHN M. WASNIEWSKI U.S. Army 2011–2017

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ohn was born in Pullman, Washington where his father was attending graduate school. His parents then moved from Washington to Wisconsin, and then on to Pennsylvania with him and his two siblings. After his father accepted a job in Medford Oregon, the family moved out west where John would spend the rest of his childhood.

In 2006, he graduated from Crater High School as a recognized athlete but his love for sports did not end there. In the fall of 2006, he went on to attend the United States Military Academy Preparatory School to play football. He then attended West Point Military Academy in 2007 where he played Division I football for two years.

During his time at West Point, John remained in the top 10% of his class for Systems Management and was awarded the General Donald R. Keith memorial award for top graduate in Systems Management. He graduated from West Point in 2011 and continued his military commitment for six years following.

During active duty, John first spent time at home in the United States attending Basic Officer

Leaders Course in Oklahoma. He then spent three years overseas in Amberg Germany as a fire support officer, a targeting officer at the battalion level, and as a platoon leader. During this time, he was also deployed to Zangabad and Masum Ghar Afghanistan for a 9-month tour during Operation Enduring Freedom. John then returned to Oklahoma where he finished Captain’s Career Course, eventually leading him to Fort Lewis in Washington State where he met his wife Stephanie.

In 2017, John completed his service with the U.S. Army and returned to civilian life. He now lives in Wenatchee Washington with his wife and two dogs. In his free time, John enjoys soaking up the goodness of life in the great outdoors where you can find him either hiking, fishing or hunting.

His greatest passion besides outdoor recreation is spending time with family. He views each day as a gift in the country he loves and calls home.

John’s Hero story was submitted by his proud wife Stephanie Wasniewski and an anonymous donor.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

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ROLAND E. WHEELER, SR. U.S. Marines 1942–1946

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oland was born in Leavenworth in 1923 to Viola and Clarence Wheeler, the youngest of seven children. His brother Wilbur (U.S. Army Infantry) was the first to enter WWII and lost his life in Italy in 1943. His brothers Robert (Merchant Marine), Harold (US Navy) and William (US Navy) entered the war soon after Wilbur.

Roland was still in High School when Pearl Harbor was bombed, graduating in the spring of 1942. He entered the U.S. Marines soon after graduation. Roland was on a ship with other Marines and members of the U.S. Navy headed to combat when their transport ship made a stop at Pearl Harbor and he and three other men were taken off to remain there and assist with the efforts to repair and restore the U.S. fleet damaged in the attack. He often talked about that event as though he were disappointed in being left at Pearl Harbor instead of going on to combat. It seems he raised his hand to ask a question and the Commander who came on board looking for volunteers took that as a sign he was volunteering. What he came to realize is that there was a great deal of work to be done there and his communication and clerical skills were just what they needed. He remained at Pearl Harbor for the duration of the war.

At the end of the war, Roland married Ida Abbott from Dryden. Roland served in an inactive capacity for two years following the war and was called up briefly to active duty during the Korean Conflict.

Roland worked at Wells and Wade Hardware between military service and later worked several years as a salesman for a Wenatchee office machine and supply business. He began work at Chelan County Public Utility District in 1964 as a warehouseman and retired in 1984 as Director of Purchasing and Stores.

Roland and Ida lived their life in Cashmere, raised 4 children and were active in Cashmere Grace Lutheran Church and Cashmere American Legion and Auxiliary.

Their love of country was instilled in their children and both sons (Roland Jr (Sandy) U.S. Navy Vietnam and John U.S. Air Force) served in the military. Roland was a proud veteran and participated in Veteran’s Day events at the Cashmere cemetery every year. Roland and Ida were married just 8 months short of 60 years when he lost his battle with congestive heart failure at the age of 82 and he is missed greatly by his 4 children, 9 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren and 2 greatgreat grandchildren.

Roland’s story is proudly submitted by his family.

ROLAND ‘SANDY’ WHEELER, JR.

U.S. Navy 1968–1970

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andy was born in Wenatchee in 1948 to Ida and Roland Wheeler. He had two sisters (one older, Kathy Paine and one younger, Mari White) and one younger brother, John (who also served in the Air Force).

Sandy entered the U.S. Navy in 1968 to serve in Vietnam. While completing jungle training, he also secured a Top Secret Clearance as a requirement for his upcoming missions in Vietnam. He arrived at the DaNang airport to be greeted by an F4 fighter jet attempting to land while on fire from being hit during a combat mission. The pilot ejected just prior to landing as the jet was entirely engulfed in flames and he remembered thinking “what a welcome to Vietnam.” Sandy was a decent swimmer and on a given day at Red Beach, (about 9 miles from downtown DaNang) he risked his life to save the lives of two civilians, whom he interacted with from time to time throughout the war. Sandy served in I Corp South Vietnam from Chu Lai to Dong Ha and a few places beyond and his dedication to what he did led him to extend for an extra 6-month tour. As was required by the military, he was forced to take a 30 day leave before his extension and it was during this time, that his dad, Roland Wheeler Sr., asked him to promise him that he would not extend again…a promise he kept but struggled with after receiving his honorable discharge in April of 1970. As a result of his service in Vietnam, he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam

Campaign Medal with Device.

Sandy would again find the NSA and his friend (a former top director of the NSA) calling him within a few days of the 9/11/01 terrorist strike to ask him if he would allow the NSA to sponsor him to get his Top Secret Clearance to work with the NSA, Booze-Allen, Raytheon, Boeing and Computer Science Corporation on a project that was critical to our nation’s security.

Sandy found himself traveling from Wenatchee to Fort Meade. One of the highlights in Sandy’s life was the opportunity to meet and become very close friends with Admiral William (Bill) Owens (former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1992 to 1994, Under President Bush) and they had many a chuckle about an enlisted Navy guy becoming friends with the top Naval Officer.

After graduating from WVC and CWU Sandy became a CPA with Peat, Marwick and Mitchell in Seattle and eventually co-founded a company that manufactured and marketed what would become known as Bowflex and that company became publicly traded on the New York Exchange while purchasing Schwinn Fitness, Stairmaster and Nautilus. He still works to this day consulting with various companies utilizing his entrepreneurial skills, including teaching part-time at Central Washington University, where he helped pioneer the Entrepreneurial Sciences program.

Sandy is proud of his service and submitted his story.

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

WILLIAM D. WILSON U.S. Navy 1954–1975

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illiam “Don” was born in Canton, Ohio in 1931. He probably had a natural affinity for the U.S. Navy, because his father has served in the Navy during World War 1. After college in 1953, he attended the U.S. Navy Officer Candidate School. During his 21 year Navy career, 11 at sea and eight ashore, he treasured every assignment and often said “it’s amazing that I’m paid to do this job that I love.”

The following assignments stand out in memory: u Two years on board the USS John R. Pierce (DD753) Operations Officer. u Two years on board the USS JD Blackwood

(DE219) Officer in Charge where he was promoted to Lieutenant Commander. u Two years at Navcommsta Londonderry, North Ireland — Executive Officer. u Two years — Communications Officer Commander Carrier Division 6. u One year in Vietnam — Communications Officer Comrivpatflot 5 Staff. u One year — Communications Staff 0 Cinclantflt, Norfolk, Virginia.

After retirement he engaged in small-time homebuilding and then volunteered at hospital and food banks for many years.

Don’s story was proudly submitted by his wife Carolyn.

JOHN H. WOLFFE U.S. Army 1967–1997

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ohn was born in California in 1947.

He is the oldest of four and has two younger brothers and a younger sister.

John graduated from Homestead High School in 1967. During his senior year, John received two draft notices. Instead of being drafted, John enlisted into the Army in April 1967.

John attended basic training in August of that year at Fort Bliss, Texas. 11 months after he signed up, John was sent to Vietnam as a chemical warfare specialist. John spent 18 months in Vietnam in the 101st Airborne Division. It was at this time that John was wounded in battle and was awarded the Purple Heart. After the 18 months were up, John returned to the states where he was stationed at Fort Benning Georgia. During his time at Fort Benning, John worked as a CBR NCO for the 91st Infantry Brigade, Headquarters Company and was sent to Los Angles, California for riot control in November 1969. Once he got back to Fort Benning, John and his team enjoyed a nice

Thanksgiving dinner.

In January 1970, John got orders to go to Germany, along the West German border at the Iron Curtain. John returned to the states in August 1970 on the G.I. Bill. He moved to Walla Walla where he attended International Barber College in Pasco. A year later, John moved to Wenatchee and attended Wenatchee Valley College to study forestry. John eventually got a Bachelor’s Degree from Evergreen State College in 1976 where he worked for the U.S. Forest Service.

In 1982, John once again returned to the Army and joined the Army Reserves, where he drove semi-trucks hauling fuel and ammo from Yakima.

John retired from the Army altogether in 1999.

He now lives with his significant other and has two stepdaughters and seven grandkids.

John’s story was proudly submitted by his grandson Chase Coleman.

The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

A Lifetime of Thank You’s Would Never Be Enough Gratitude To Our Veterans.

From our staff at Pat Armstrong Ford we honor and remember those who have fought for our freedoms and those that continue to protect us today.

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(509) 663-2111

700 3rd St. East Wenatchee www.patarmstrongford.net

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The Wenatchee World | Tuesday, November 10, 2020

TYRONE J. BEAL

U.S. Army 1988–1994

COURT D. HAUGEN

U.S. Army 2006–2009

RALPH (ALLEN) MCFARLING

U.S. Marines 1942–1946

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tories were not available for these three veterans. The location of their banners can be found on pages 34-35.

WENATCHEE VETERANS’ RESOURCES Veterans Medical

Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center 2530 Chester-Kimm Road Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-663-7615

Veterans Counseling

Central Washington Veterans Counseling 610 N. Mission St. #202 Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-667-8828

Veterans Communities and Services American Legion Post 10 208 N. Wenatchee Ave. Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-663-5912

Veterans of Foreign Wars 211 11th St. NE East Wenatchee, WA 98802 509-884-3617 NCW Vets Serving Vets (The Bunker) 1250 N. Wenatchee Ave. Ste. H #266 Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-885-5559 County Veterans Assistance Program Chelan County Courthouse 350 Orondo Ave. Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-667-6216 Wenatchee Veterans Hall 512 S. Chelan Ave. Wenatchee, WA 98801 509-664-6801

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Honoring All Veterans on Veterans Day, for the men and women who have served our country and protected our freedoms.

We are forever grateful!

Jessup Real Estate

Thank You to all of the Past & Present Veterans for your service.

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the wenaTchee world, in partnership with the wenatchee downtown association, is proud to help bring the stories behind these hero’s banners to life.

We would like to thank those WHO SERVED AND ALSO Thank those who submitted the stories for the banners