Death Bulletins

Korean War Educator
c/o Lynnita Jean Brown
111 E. Houghton St.
Tuscola, IL 61953
217-253-4620
Email: lynnita@koreanwar-educator.org

Most recent updates (date at left is date notice was posted on KWE):

December 29, 2007 - Earl Lentz
February 09, 2008 - Stuart Ballou
February 14, 2008 - Gene A. Fuller (died 5/4/07)
February 22, 2008 - Jerry R. Hackett (died 1/19/08)
February 23, 2008 - Harry H. Reed (died 2/21/90)
February 24, 2008 - Clarence Medlen
February 27, 2008 - Robert E. Tims Jr.
March 15, 2008 - Frank Chumley
March 15, 2008 - Harold "Curly" Harmon
March 15, 2008 - James Henry Lynch
March 15, 2008 - Carl F. Bernard
April 03, 2008 - Wallace Hansen (died 8/14/90)
April 21, 2008 - Charles R. Farwell
April 26, 2008 - John Lenox Farnum (died 4/2/85)
May 01, 2008 - Frank M. Bifulk (died 12/26/07)
May 21, 2008 - Norman St. Cyr (died 5/24/02)
August 14, 2008 - Henry Ford Perkins
August 22, 2008 - Walter Lloyd Watterson Jr. (died 7/27/08)
September 1, 2008 - Julius Benjamin Griffin (died 1/25/03)

Death Notices

| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | Mc | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z |

Amadon, Dale H.

My name is Diane Seelman. My father Dale H. Amadon serve in the Korean War. He passed away on October 26,1997 after surgery and then a stroke he suffered at the hospital. He was 71 years old. He had 3 grandchildren. I am his oldest and then there is my bother Dale Jr. Dad was a very proud man and is missed so much. Just thought I would write in to let the Vets know he thought of them often and told us countless stories of things that happened. We miss the stories and wish we could hear more. Thank you so much.

Sincerely,
The children of Dale H. Amadon

Anderson, Willie Edward

Our daddy was a Korean War veteran - 3 bronze stars - US Army, honorably discharged in 1952. He died on Friday, March 15, 2002. He was from Swainsboro, GA. His name was Willie Edward Anderson, and was 71 at his death. He attended a Korean War veteran reunion in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina a couple of years before he died. He had a wonderful time. Thank you to all of those who made him feel so special. We really miss him. He was a wonderful American. Sadly, his 3 bronze stars and all the Korean Service medal, etc. arrived the week after he died - so he never got to see them after waiting on them for years.

[Submitted by his daughters, Joy and Sherry.]

Andrews, Carrol

Carrol Andrews, 73, Murdo, SD, died Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at the United Methodist Church in Murdo, followed by a Masonic and Eastern Star service there at 7.  Memorial services are planned for 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at the United Methodist Church in Murdo, followed by burial at the Murdo City Cemetery.  The Isburg-Hofmeister Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Carrol Andrews was born Dec. 23, 1929, to Henry A. and Gladys Rheba (Ike) Andrews in Gregory. The family lived at the Butterfield Ranch southwest of Wood until 1935 when Carrol started grade school in Wood. In 1942 he moved with his family to White River and graduated from high school there in 1948.  Following his graduation he took over his father’s mail route until 1951 when he was drafted into the U.S. Army Infantry. He was stationed at Fort Riley, Kan., then was sent to serve in Korea from June 1951 to June 1952. Carrol was discharged from the service in October 1952.

When he returned home, he resumed working the mail route. He married Beverly Brooks on April 19, 1953, and they recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Carrol continued the mail route until September 1959 when he purchased the Mobil Station and owned it through 1962. He joined the state highway department in 1963 and worked there until his retirement 25 years later.  He took some time to enjoy retirement before working part-time for the county highway department until 2002.

Carrol and Bev enjoyed motorcycle riding and took numerous trips with their family and friends through the years. He also enjoyed woodworking, reading and working with heavy equipment. He was a ham radio operator, which allowed him to visit with people all over the world.

He is survived by his wife Beverly of Murdo; two sons, Thomas Andrews and his wife Robin of Murdo and Richard Andrews of Belleville, Wash.; six grandchildren; and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Orvis; and an infant sister.

[Posted by Robin Andrews.  Should anyone out there know of Carrol Andrews and his time served, the family would love to hear from them.
E-mail trandrews@wcenet.com.]

Atencio, Joe

Joe Atencio of Oklahoma died on August 23, 2005 and was buried in Arlington Cemetery, Arlington, Oklahoma.   Mr. Atencio owned a used auto dealership called Big Joe's Auto Sales.

Jose "Joe" Atencio was born on September 19, 1930 and grew up in Dixon, New Mexico.  He was wounded in action in Korea in 1952 and was treated for his wounds in Brooke Army Hospital.  He was awarded the Purple Heart, Silver Star, and Bronze medals.  He married Marcella Nadine Austin on May 18, 1966.  When his wife became ill with Alzheimer's Disease, he cared for her until her death in 2002.  He was also pre-deceased by two children.  He is survived by one daughter, Jolena Moore, one adopted daughter, six stepchildren, a sister Mary Gonzales, and two brothers David and Herman Atencio.

He was a wonderful man who fought so hard for this country as all of the men here did and was severely injured in the process. I now have his Purple Heart and other medals and look at them often. I miss him and his stories.  He was a wonderful, caring, giving man but most of all, he was honorable. This is a very hard trait to find. If anyone remembers him and wants to contact me, please call me at 405-455-1194. Thank you, Jolena

Baldovi, Louis

Louis Baldovi, 74, died July 9, 2006 in Honolulu.  Born in Kahului, Maui and raised in Haiku, he lived in Kane'ohe at the time of his death.  He is survived by wife Valerie; children Elise Karr, Renee Nani, Michele Andrea and Joshua and Keoni Baldovi; brothers and sisters Ramona Aguirre and James and Sylvestre Baldovi and Jane Nikaido, Mary Ayres and Rita Nordquist; and two grandchildren.

While studying at Maui Technical, Baldovi was drafted into the Army.  He served as a rifleman with the 45th Infantry Division in Korea in 1952 and reenlisted in 1953, serving as a drill sergeant at Schofield Barracks.  He was a school teacher and retired principal of Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School in 1985.  In 1989 he revisited Korea as a guest of the South Korean government.  He and others then founded the Korean War Veterans Association of Hawaii.  He was the editor of "A Foxhole View: Personal Accounts of Hawaii's Korean War Veterans" and he was instrumental in creating the Korean and Vietnam War memorials on the State Capitol grounds in Hawaii.

Baldwin, Donald Robert

Donald Robert Baldwin, 71, died February 23, 2002, in Arizona.  Don served in the US Navy during the Korean War from January 13, 1948 to January 4, 1952.  Service vessels: USS Titania (AKA-13) and USS Seminole (AKA-101).  He was a Boatswain's Mate Third Class. He is buried in Riverside National Cemetery.

Ballou, Norman Lee

Norman Lee Ballou was born December 10, 1931 and died in June of 1987. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Essex.  He returned to Detroit, Michigan, where he married and had six children.  He completed his education, obtaining a Masters in Education from Wayne State University. He worked at Detroit Public Schools until 1977, when he moved to Waterford Public Schools.  There he rose to the position of Assistant Principal at Waterford Mott High School,  He was still at this school at the time of his death from cancer. He has an adopted son, three sons, a daughter, one step-daughter, and 10 grandchildren. He is survived by his second wife Elaine, and five of the six aforementioned children.

Ballou, Stuart L.

Stu Ballou died at 09:30 a.m.,  February 8, 2008, in Missouri.

To my friend and family: We will be having a memorial service celebrating Stu's life, on Saturday, February 16 starting at 1:00 p.m., with a family and friends visitation at noon. The Service will be held at Hutchens Mortuary, 675 Graham Road, Florissant, Mo. 63031. He is being cremated, and in lieu of flowers, we would appreciate any memorials be sent in the form of a donation to the St. Louis Veterans Home Committee, 10600 Lewis & Clark Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63136. - Mollie

STUART L. BALLOU
AUGUST 29, 1927 - FEBRUARY 8, 2008
Wonderful, Humble, Caring, Supportive
Husband to Mollie and Dad to Doug and Brian
and Grandpa to Lyndsey and Matthew
Florissant Veteran of the Year 2007
AND
State Commander for the Korean War Vets
He is Blessed to be in God's Hands
and NOT suffering, but looking
upon ALL of us now, because
he has a big heart and cares
about everybody.
Always has and Always will
We will miss you DAD
(Brian Ballou)

Bernard, Carl Franklin

Obituary:
Col. Carl F. Bernard (USA Ret.), 81, died at his home at Fort Belvoir on March 4, 2008.  A decorated combat veteran, he died of a stroke.  He was born in 1926 in Borger, Texas.  Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Edith Jouanin Bernard; sons Hugh Bernard of Annapolis, Joel Bernard of Alexandria, and Jacques Bernard of Vienna; daughter Mary Bernard Santos of Jacksonville, Florida; five grandchildren; and a sister and five brothers.

He joined the Marine Corps in 1944 and served in the Pacific and china as an enlisted man.  He joined the Army in 1947.  In 1948 he was made an honorary member of the 555th, an African American parachute regiment known as "Triple Nickel."  He was commissioned an infantry officer in 1949.

At the outbreak of the Korean War, he was a platoon leader with L Company, 21st Infantry, receiving the Distinguished Service Cross for action at Chochiwon, Korea.  The citation said, "Lieutenant Bernard's aggressive attacks on the enemy tanks and machine-gun emplacement inspired the outnumbered men of his command to fight with him, until out of ammunition, against overwhelming odds."

After Korea, his military career took him to Germany, Ranger School at Ft. Benning, Georgia, and the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.  He also helped develop the curriculum at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

In 1960 he was assigned to Laos as part of the White Star Mobile Training Teams.  Colonel Bernard In 1972 he was assigned the task of restructuring the Army ROTC program at the University of California at Berkeley.  He retired from the Army in 1978, after which he ran a consulting firm that specialized in Army readiness and U.S./French military relations.

Comments from Volney Warner (life member 24th Infantry Division Association)
"I lost a warrior friend yesterday. Carl Bernard died comfortably in his bed reading a book on Korea. Synopsis of our early association follows, as done for his children and in preparation for my eulogy at his funeral. Carl was indeed the bravest combat soldier that I have ever known and a dear friend for many years worth remembering. Great men also die! - Vol Warner

Korea -
I reported in to L Company, 21st Infantry as a replacement 2nd Lieutenant fresh out of West Point at the end August 1950. Carl had already distinguished himself in battle in July as one of the few survivors of Task Force Smith. As 1st Lieutenant Company Exec, Carl was now tasked with fitting me and several of my classmates into the remnants of Task Force Smith, then holding a section of the Naktong Perimeter. Carl took one look at the lot of us and remarked, "The war is over.  The ring knockers are here."  We called him "Peep Sight" because he had broken his glasses and refused to go to the rear to get another pair. Instead, he put a thin strip of white tape across the offending lens, which obscured his vision but improved his aim.

As for weaponry, he often carried a .45 with one round in the chamber as alternative to capture.  He wore a bedraggled World War II wool knit cap and sweater which he claimed, as did the Ghost Dancing Sioux before him, to be "magically bullet proofed." No bullet would ever have his name on it as long as he was so garbed. The Division MP's fined him 25 dollars in the rear area for failure to wear a steel pot, but it took an order from Ridgeway to get him to comply. Those soldiers who survived the initial North Korean onslaught with him worshipped the ground he fought on and the rest of us loved him for what he was and would follow him anywhere. The company lost about 200 soldiers mostly killed/captured and some were wounded from July 1950 to July 1951.

When Carl was sent to the rear for a break as an L-19 observer, he continued to keep track of us on the ground like an overhead mother. When the going got tough on the ground, he came forward to join the fight, even once arriving in a "borrowed" armored vehicle for added fire support. He adjusted "danger close" artillery support one day on the Chinese contesting our real estate, so close that it splattered us with hot fragments but separated their body parts and obviated our fixing bayonets.

We never had time to appropriately record his heroic efforts. Pencil and paper was in short supply in those days and the enemy just over the next hill mass. So each year those of us in L Company, plus wives who will listen to us, meet for three days somewhere to relive (and embellish) our exploits and discuss who will toast the company from the "last man standing bottle," before L Company falls in again in the Great Hereafter.

Vietnam:
While working in the White House as part of Ambassador Komer and Ambassador Leonhardt's staff, I was dispatched at their direction to Vietnam to make and independent analysis of the effects of Tet 31 January 1968 on the Pacification Plan--presumably as requested by President Johnson.

Of course, I visited Carl at Hau Nghia as part of my tour of the Provinces. I arrived, briefcase in hand, for a short in-brief at the Team House, reminiscing that my good friend Reed Jensen, one of Carl's early predecessors had been killed there by the VC in 1963. After a few uncharitable, and no doubt correct, comments about the inability of the nearby US division to control the area, Carl insisted we take a tour of his domain. So we jumped in his jeep, with him driving, and started eastward along the unimproved road toward Saigon---he with his pistol, me with my briefcase.

We had proceeded no more than a mile when I noticed a wide swath through the adjacent rice paddy, crossing the road to our front obliterating past tire marks and then coursing as far as we could see toward Saigon. Carl decided to ask the adjacent Regional Force Outpost what units had gone by them in the middle of the night. They reported seeing nothing (but their radios has disappeared). Since the outpost had reported nothing, Carl was immediately suspicious that a large enemy unit had "harvested the rice" by marching through it, and threatened the locals to silence as they passed. Carl then said, "Let's go cross country and see if we can find them." I replied, "Let's call the ARVN Regiment and let them go find them, I'm just here on TDY!"  I lost the argument so away we went.

About one mile later, we took some incoming AK rounds and had to dismount behind the Jeep for cover. Carl dug an M-79 (shotgun 40mm) out of the rear seat and we tried to engage, at the same time calling the Regimental Commander who appeared on the scene shortly thereafter. About four of us were standing behind the paddy barrier talking strategy when a sniper knocked down the Regimental surgeon and an NCO standing about four feet from us. I immediately got down behind the paddy dike and was amazed to see Carl and his ARVN colonel counterpart remain standing and exposed despite sporadic incoming AK fire. An ARVN fire team ran them off shortly thereafter with the Regiment in hot pursuit. Welcome to mini-Tet May 1968!

I asked Carl and the Colonel why on earth they did not take cover and get down behind the paddy dike. The Colonel's reply was that "The VC/NVA always shoot low, so if you stand tall you only get hit in the legs.  If you get down, you will be shot in the head." The two of them were clearly playing "chicken."  As in Korea, there never was a bullet that had Carl's name on it. Next day the battle for Cholon was begun in earnest."

Bernard, Joseph "Fred"

Fred Bernard, member of Anglico from 1948 until 1952, died on December 27.  According to his daughter, Ann Berger, "Dad was getting weaker this year and then last weekend he fell and broke his hip. This week has been difficult but we were fortunate in that all five of us arrived in time to be with him when he died last night." His obituary, which was published in the Chicago Tribune on 12/29/04, appears below:

Joseph ''Fred'' Bernard Jr., 75, of Hendersonville, NC died Monday, December 27, 2004. A native of Larchmont, NY, he had lived in Northbrook, IL for 30 years before moving to Hendersonville ten years ago. He was the son of the late Joseph F. Bernard Sr. and Edith Mayer Bernard. Mr. Bernard was a 1955 graduate of Iona College in New Rochelle, NY and retired in 1991 from Family Circle magazine. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church and was a United States Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War. Survivors include his wife, Judy Bernard; five children, Jacquelyn Barron and her husband, Robert, of Cincinnati, Mary Jo McNeily and her husband, Kevin, of Western Springs, IL, Ann Berger of New York City, NY, Joseph F. Bernard, III and his wife, Carole, of Short Hills, NJ, and Margaret Koett and her husband, Kevin, of Jefferson City, TN; nine grandchildren, Kurt, Adam, Leah and Gwen Barron, Eric, Ryan and Jack McNeily, Nicholas and Katharine Berger, Samuel and Tyler Bernard, and Jessica and McIntyre Koett; and one sister, Lola Trefzger of Delmar, NY. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated in Hendersonville. Memorial contributions may be made to Mainstay, 125 South Main Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792 or to Four Seasons Hospice and Palliative Care, PO Box 2395, Hendersonville, NC 28793. E-mail condolences may be sent to www.thosshepherd.com.

Bifulk, Frank M.

Frank M. Bifulk, Korean War Marine and Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, age 79, died peacefully on Wednesday, December 26, 2007, surrounded by his loving and caring family after a long bout with pancreatic cancer.

He was born on October 2, 1928 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Joseph and Philomena (Quercia) Bifulk. Frank will be remembered for his keen wit and sense of humor. He was an avid traveler criss-crossing the country and making friends everywhere.

Frank distinguished himself as a United States Marine serving in the Korean War. He was a member of the "Frozen Chosin" and Baker Company, whose heroic exploits have been detailed in several books. The Purple Heart and Bronze Star were awarded to Frank for his extraordinary valor while being attacked by hordes of Chinese from across the border. Only eight survived the ordeal and walked out on their own, two of which were Frank and his long time buddy from St. Paul, Merwin Perkins.

He worked for the Ford Motor Company for 10 years and the City of St. Paul for 27 years. His skills covered a wide range. He happily volunteered his help to anyone in need. Frank will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by sons, Lance (Jeanne) Bifulk Albany of Wisconsin and Warren (Gloria) Bifulk of Tucson, AZ; seven grandchildren, Daniel Bifulk of Victorville, California, Julie Bifulk of Rockford, Illinois, Andrew Bifulk of Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, Angelo, Jacqueline, and Anthony Bifulk, all of Tucson, Arizona, and Eva Bifulk-Trauscht; sisters, Dorothy (Bill) Crockett and Angie Bethke; brothers, Phillip (Bonnie) Bifulk and Mike (Rachel) Bifulk; one very special friend, Beverly Parkinson; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Philomena Bifulk; sister, Mary Roland; brother, Archie; wife, Clare; and daughter, Ann Marie.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 31, 2007 with visitation one hour prior at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 8260 4th St. N., Oakdale. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Guardian Angels Catholic Church.

Billen, Glenn E.

Glenn Eugene Billen, 76, of Edmond, Oklahoma, went to be with his Heavenly Father on July 22, 2006. Glenn was born September 7, 1929 in Britton, Oklahoma. He attended Luther and Deer Creek Schools in Oklahoma. Glenn left Oklahoma and ventured to California in 1946, where he later joined the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War. While there, he met and married the love of his life, Dolly, on April 9, 1954. In 1971, Glenn brought his family to his Oklahoma roots. Glenn was a skilled and versatile cement contractor for nearly 60 years, owning Billen Concrete prior to his retirement. He passed on his work ethic and skills, love for the outdoors, and especially his sense of humor to his children. Glenn is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dorothy (Dolly). He is also survived by 5 sons: Bob and his wife, Colleen; Bill and his wife, Karla; Tony; David and his wife, Kathy; Matt and his wife, Helen; 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, it is the family's desire that donations be made to the Disabled Veterans of America.  Glenn was a very loving and caring man that was proud of his short tenure in the military.  He will be truly missed by all.

[Submitted by Matthew Billen, Yukon, OK.]

Note from Matt to KWE readers:  My dad was a wonderful person who never bragged about his service in the military. He was a humble and caring person. He did, however, teach me and my brothers about respect to our veterans, what they stand for, what they fight for, and to be thankful each and every day for our freedoms that we have because of their sacrifices.

Blagg, John William

My father, John (Toot or Jay) William Blagg, was born 06 April 1931 in Butler County, Missouri, and died 13 September 2001 in Houston, Texas. He had gone to Houston where a daughter lived for some tests. He lived most of his life in Butler County, Missouri where he was born. He enlisted in the Army January 13, 1949 at Cape Girardeau, Missouri. His home address at that time was Box 101, Star Route, Neelyville, Missouri. He served 3 years and 12 days, 1 of those years was an involuntary extension. He served in Korea for 1 year 3 months and 26 days. He earned the Korean Service Medal with 5 bronze stars during that time. He was in "A" Battery, 78th AAA Gun Battalion, APO 301. He was discharged on the 24th day of January 1952. Dad very seldom talked about his military experiences. I came across this site and wanted to include my father. - Sharron Blagg McElhaney

Bonner, Emory R.

Obituary - Anniston Star newspaper, Roanoke, AL — Funeral services for Mr. Emory Royce Bonner, 76, of Roanoke, Ala., will be at 2 p.m. Friday, November 24, 2006 from Quattlebaum Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Billy Allen, the Rev. Stoney Halsey and the Rev. Rob Steinbrook officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Home Christian Church Cemetery with Quattlebaum Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5 to 8 this evening. Mr. Bonner died Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at East Alabama Medical Center.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Cowan Bonner, of Roanoke; one daughter, Nina Gibb, of Phoenix, Ariz.; one sister, Laura Bartlett, of Rock Mills; three grandchildren, Bill Welstead, of Omaha, Neb., Jesse Welstead, of Omaha, Neb., Andy Welstead, of Denver, Colo.; two step-children; and five step-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be the United States Military.

Mr. Bonner was born November 4, 1930, son of Emory Guy and Elizabeth Boyd Bonner. He served in the United States Army, Sergeant First Class, and Green Beret Special Forces, during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Mr. Bonner stood at the head of President John F. Kennedy, while he lay in state in the Capital Rotunda, at the request of Jackie Kennedy. He received the following medals; Silver Star, four Purple Hearts, Good Conduct Medal with clasps, silver with one loop, Army of Occupation Medal with Japan clasp, Bronze National Defense Service Medal; four bronze and one silver Korean Service Medals, one bronze Vietnam Service Medal, United States Service Medal, Parachutist Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Marksman Badge with carbine and pistol bars, Expert Badge with rifle and machine gun bars.

Brooker, Lt. Col. David Brown (Ret.)

Lt. Col. David Brown Brooker (retired) 78, passed away June 24th at Lexington Medical Center following a brief illness. Funeral services with full military honors will be held at 2:00 p.m.on Thursday, June 29, 2006 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1715 Broad River Road with burial to follow at Melrose Family Cemetery in Swansea. The family will receive friends from 6-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 28th at Dunbar Funeral Home Dutch Fork Chapel, 7600 Woodrow Street in Irmo. Honorary Pall Bearers will be Enrique Janer, Lucius Culthbert Brooker, III, Chuck Statler, the ladies and gentlemen of the Columbia Bank of Cooperatives and Pearson Professional Center of Columbia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Carolina Children’s Home.

Born in Lexington County, Lt.Col. Brooker was the son of the late Honorable, Dr. Lucius Cuthbert Brooker, Sr, MD (Lexington Representative to the House) and Margaret Brown Brooker. He was a graduate of Carlisle Military School, attended The Citadel where he was a pianist for the Citadel orchestra and graduated from Presbyterian College with a BS in Biology as a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity and Pi Sigma Chi science fraternity. As a youth, he achieved the level of Eagle Scout of the Order of the Arrow of the Indian Waters Council.

Upon graduation from college, he became a commissioned officer in the US Army, serving as a Company Commander and Battalion Intelligence Officer with the 24th and 25th Infantry Divisions during the Korean War where his company was recognized for heroism under fire. He was highly decorated receiving the United Nations Service Medal, two Bronze Stars, The Korean Services Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal. He also served in the Retirement Honor Guard for General Douglas McArthur. Once separated from active duty, he became an Army Reserve Training Officer and later was appointed as the SC Liaison Officer to the United States Military Academy at West Point due to his natural leadership ability. He was inducted into the SC West Point Graduate Association as an honorary member.

In his retirement, Dave found that he could not remain idle. He served as the Lead Test Administrator for the Pearson Professional Centers of Columbia. In addition to retiring from the US Army, Dave retired after twenty-five years as the Senior Vice President to the Columbia Bank of Cooperatives in 1986. He then joined the SC Department of Commerce as an Economic Development Manager where he later retired after fifteen years of service.

He was a member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church and Chairman of the Board of Deacons at Rose Hill Presbyterian Church. Prior to marrying Martha Ellen Alvoid, he was a member of the Columbia Batchelor’s Club. Later he became a charter member and past president of the Evening Optimist Club of Columbia, past charter member-organizer and director of the Cayce Rotary Club, past member-organizer and director of Triangle City Merchant’s Association, past president and director of Columbia Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) receiving the Key Member award in 1955.

Surviving are his wife of 23 years, Ann M. Brooker, children from his first marriage, Kathryn E. Brooker and fiancé Owen Holmes, IV of Newberry, David B. Brooker, Jr and wife Dawn of Columbia, Douglas C. Brooker and wife Ana of Atlanta, Ga; grandchildren, Graham Brooker, Haley Brooker and Dakota Brooker; stepchildren David E. Starkey of Atlanta, Ga., Sharon S. Statler and husband Chuck of Columbia, Darryl L. Starkey and wife Missie of Columbia as well as Step-grandchildren David Starkey, Alyssa Starkey, Robby Statler, Susannah Starkey, Jack Starkey and Garret Starkey; sister-in-law, Millie Brooker of Summerville, nephew Lucius C. Brooker, III of Denver, CO and niece Deborah S. Brooker of Charleston. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, LC Brooker, Jr. (Ex-navy WWII) with whom he was extremely close.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff of the 4th floor ICU at Lexington Medical Center for the loving care they provided to Dave during his final days. Your kindness and support will always be remembered, with special thanks to Judy, Sam, Jenny and Erica.

To quote General of The Army, Douglas McArthur, revered by Lt. Col. Brooker, “Old soldiers never die, they just fade away.”  Although you are gone and at rest, you will never fade away in our hearts.

Briggs, Capt. Ann

Captain Ann King Briggs, ret. (born Julia Ann King) passed away on July 31 at the age of 86.  A Korean War veteran, Ann was born in Williamsburg, Kentucky, on March 2, 1919. She was one of seven siblings of Melvina and Joseph C. King. After attending Williamsburg High School, she entered nursing school with her sisters Vera and Ruth at St. Joseph's in Lexington, KY. After completing her nurses training, she enlisted in the Army Air Corps and soon requested assignment in the Korean theatre, where she served during the Korean War. While
serving in Korea, she was one of the first two flight nurses to land in Pyongyang.

After the Korean War ceasefire, she was stationed in Japan at Yokoska Air Base. In 1953 she returned stateside to Montgomery, AL, where she met her future husband, Major John Alden Briggs. They were married in 1954. That same year, she left the armed forces to raise her family. Sons Kevin Bradford and Robert Craig were born in 1954 and 1959, respectively. Three children were lost in infancy, Alan, Priscilla and Hillary. After raising her two sons, Ann returned to nursing in Florida, first as a volunteer for the Red Cross, and later, as registered nurse working at Patrick Air Force Base. Ann retired from nursing in 1989, having spent 35 years in nursing treating soldiers and their children, at war and at peace.

In April of this year, Ann moved to Diamondhead, Mississippi, to be near son Kevin Bradford and wife Heather. Quite unexpectedly, on July 29, Ann suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. She is survived by sister Vera Russell (Capt., ret) and Joe C. Smith, Jr. (Capt, ret) and wife Jane of Bardstown, Kentucky; sons, Mr. Kevin Briggs and wife Heather of Diamondhead, MS, and Mr. Robert Craig Briggs and wife Daisy of Hong Kong; granddaughter Shane Yahn of Flanders, New Jersey, and grandson Jake Briggs of Hong Kong; and, two great-grandsons, Zachary and Spencer.

Ann was a member of the World War II Flight Nurses and was immensely proud of serving her country.

Bruce, Bobby E.

Bobby E. Bruce died September 3, 1996. He served in the 24th Infantry Division and was wounded in action May 17, 1951 in South Korea.

Cady, Leon Ashley

Leon Ashley Cady, 77, of West Hartford passed away peacefully on Friday (September 2, 2005) surrounded by his family. He was born on December 6, 1928 in Sayville, Long Island, New York, the son of Paul Revere and Ivy Rose Cady.  He lived most of his live in West Hartford. He graduated from Hall High School in 1946. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in September of 1946. He fought with his fellow Marines of "I" Co., 3rd Battalion, 1st Division in the battle of the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War. He received the Purple Heart in March of 1951. He was discharged from the Marines in September 1951.

He was a journeyman tool and die maker by trade. He worked most of his career at Nielsen Tool & Die Company in Hartford/  He was interested in photography and had great knowledge of military history.  He was also fascinated by aircraft history. In 1943, he received a commendation from the U.S. Navy for building hand-made models used for aircraft spotting during World War II.

Leon was married to Sarah (McAnearney) Cady in 1954 and remained devoted to her until his passing.  Besides his wife Sarah of West Hartford, he is survived by his son Bruce Cady of Canton, his daughter Lynne Purcell, his son-in-law Tim Purcell, and his grandson Daniel of Alta Loma, CA. He is also survived by his older sister, Jean Doughty of West Hartford, and his younger sister, Barbara Cady of Lake Elsinore, CA.  He was predeceased by his eldest daughter, Diane.

Those who knew him will dearly miss his kind, gentle nature. He was an active member of the Korean War veterans organization, The Chosin Few. He will sincerely be missed by everyone whose life he touched. Rest in eternal peace. A funeral service was held on Friday, September 9, at 10 a.m. at the St. James Episcopal Church, corner of Farmington Ave. and Walden St., West Hartford. Burial with full military honors followed at Fairview Cemetery, West Hartford. Calling hours were held on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at the Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home, 136 South Main St., West Hartford. Memorial contributions can be made to the Veterans Administration, Newington.

Cantarella, Michael

I am writing to let you know, my father, Michael Cantarella of the Wolfhounds, 27th Regiment (Korean War time frame) passed away today, Nov. 17, 2007, at 5:10 p.m. He was 79, and passed on while napping in a nice rehabilitation facility where he was recovering from an artery blockage operation, and coping with advanced cancer. Over the years, he told me, his only child, stories about being in the Army, and the Korean War. He was very proud of his participation in the Army and in the war, and we, the rest of the family are also very proud of him and all the others. His honorable discharge was always hanging on a wall in his bedroom. He always said the Army was good for young fellows, as they learned so many good methods and priorities right from the beginning of the service experience. I never thought to search online for a site such as this one. If I had realized so many people were connecting here, I would have helped my Dad enter something on this site. He was not one to adapt to modern electronics or conveniences. He married a local girl from Union, NJ, my Mom, where he grew up and moved us to Iselin when it was just all farmland. He owned a paving business, and for years helped lay the asphalt you see from Central Jersey down past Freehold and out past Flemington, NJ. He gave to the local Catholic Church, and helped parishioners out by buying whatever they were trying to sell to make a living. The 50's here in Iselin were interesting. The Monsignor at the time often would say, "Mike, come on over here, and buy some of this from so-and-so." My Dad would. My Dad put neighborhood men who lived on our street to work paving driveways when they were laid off from places like General Motors or Ford. Please feel free to put a note in your columns, and write back to me if you like. If you do anything like have members of your groups on this site raise money, or crochet or in some way contribute to vets, count me in. Just let me know how I can figure in and help a bit. Best regards, Patty Coleman, Iselin, NJ 08830

Carcamo, Eddie

Eddie M. Carcamo passed away at the Loma Linda VA on 11/24/05.  He was a Korean War veteran and former POW.

Carlock, Dale Terry

Dale Terry Carlock of Tyler, Texas, was born in Independence, Missouri, on August 28, 1929, a son of Charles and Iva Carlock, died August 19, 2007.  He joined the US Navy in June of 1948. Mr. Carlock was one of the minesweeper 12 survivors of the sinking of the USS Magpie during the Korean War.  His memories of the sinking are available for viewing on the KWE's Memoirs page.  He was discharged from the Navy in June of 1952.

After discharge, Terry Carlock worked in an oil refinery before eventually going to an IBM school to learn how to operate punched card equipment. He worked for two companies in that field, and then got a job with the Mobil Oil Corporation. With Mobil, he graduated into computer programming when they came into widespread use. Mobil Oil became his career company and computers his career vocation. He worked all over the United States. In 1975, he was transferred to the Exploration and Producing Company of Mobil Oil and was sent to Nigeria in a management position. His wife Iola went with him, and they lived in Lagos, Nigeria, for four and a half years. In 1980, they were transferred to Medan, Indonesia. Medan was the provincial capital of North Sumatra. After one year, Mobil transferred the offices to Jakarta on Java, and Terry and Iola lived in Jakarta for five and a half years. In 1979, Mobil brought Terry back to the United States to Dallas, Texas. He elected to retire in 1980, and returned to California, living north of Santa Barbara at Santa Ynez and then Lompoc. In 2001, he moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, and later he moved to Tyler, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Evelyn Iola Carlock, his parents, and his brother Donald Lee Carlock,  He is survived by daughter Teresa Plowman and her husband Michael of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; his son Brett Carlock and his wife Paula of Las Vegas, Nevada; his stepdaughter Linda Tye of Oak Grove, Missouri; his two sisters, Jo Ann Hall and her husband Jim and Wanda Rowan, all of Independence, MO; three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.  He was cremated and buried at a later date.

Case, Bernard Lee

Bernard Lee Case died in 1988 at the age of 53.  He served in the Korean War.

Christiansen, John

Chosin Reservoir veteran John Christiansen died in Huntington Hospital in San Marino, California, on December 14, 2005.  He was surrounded by family and will be missed.

Christopherson, Robert Glenn

Born December 17, 1930, Robert Glenn Christopherson died April 17, 1975.  He was in the United States Marine Corps and served in the Pusan Perimeter, where he lost his right leg in September of 1950.  After he returned to the states he was a drill instructor and range sergeant at Parris Island.

Chumley, Frank

Frank Chumley, 78, of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, died Sunday, March 2, 2008 after a short illness.  He was born in Maury County, Tennessee on June 12, 1929. Frank was a devoted Christian, husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by Jean Chumley, his wife of 62 years; daughters, Mrs. Jimmy (Dawn) Czermak and Missi Dodge; granddaughters, Jamie and Maggie Czermak; one brother; three sisters; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Frank served his country in the Army during the Korean War. He was a member of Chapter 86, Nashville, TN.  He preached at congregations throughout the southeast for over 50 years. A celebration of his life was held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at the Forest Lawn Chapel with Stacey Durham officiating. Graveside service was held at 1 p.m. following the service at Rose Hill Cemetery, Columbia, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to faithful gospel preachers who are working to spread the Gospel.

Clark, Jim L.

Jim L. Clark, Vet Korean War, died November 19, 2004, beloved husband of Beverly, nee Foxx; dear father of Nicole (Tom) Fritsch; loving grandfather of Jordan; fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Resting at Beverly Ridge Funeral Home, 10415 S. Kedzie Avenue, where services will be held Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. Interment Abraham Lincoln Cemetery. Member of AL Post #854 and Oak Lawn Lodge #1166 A.F. & A.M. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Mt. Greenwood United Methodist Church, 11000 S. St. Louis, Chicago, IL 60655, appreciated. Visitation Monday, 3 to 9 p.m. 773-779-4411.

Published in the Chicago Tribune on 11/22/2004.

Cline, George Willis

I would like to notify the Korean War Educator web site of the death of my dad, George Willis Cline Jr.  He died on July 21, 2005 at his home in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He had spent close to 12 years in the Army and left as a Sergeant 1st Class in the First Calvary Division. He very seldom spoke of things that happened in the actual war, but he did open up to me and my nephew about some terrible things that had happened to them. He was VERY proud to have served his country, and taught all four of his children to love it and defend it whenever necessary. He did attend the appreciation ceremony in our home town a few years ago, and was deeply touched by the gratitude of the Korean people he met.

Posted by Larry Cline, Christmas Eve 2005

Cole, Richard M.

Richard M. Cole (Click picture for a larger view)

My dad, Richard M. Cole died November 21, 1977 in Spain from cancer. His body was flown back for burial at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. He was born February 12, 1931 in Portland, Oregon to Albert and Tropha Cole. He lived in Oregon until his death. He always wanted to visit Spain and did just that. He died peacefully in his sleep.

My dad served in Korea from April 22, 1951 to March 31, 1954. He was a map maker in Korea and got out of the military as a TSGT. Dad married Barbara Carson in September of 1958 and they had three wonderful daughters. Candy, Cindy and Deirdre. He was a favorite for all his nieces and nephews and especially us kids. He now has 5 grandkids and 3 great grandkids. I know that wherever he is, he is watching all of us, from his wife to his kids. We miss him lots and love him lots.

If anyone knew my dad, I would appreciate any and all stories and/or pictures of him while he was in Korea. He never talked much about the war, but then again, we didn't ask. If I only knew then what I know now.... We are proud of our dad, and all veterans. He knew that Candy and her husband are veterans of the Navy, and I know that he knows his youngest daughter and her husband are proud veterans and retirees of the Coast Guard.

So to all Korean Veterans, you are all heroes to me and my family, and to dad. I salute you and love you!  If you know my dad, please send any stories to ladaea@adelphia.net. Thanks! - Deirdre L. (Cole) Alheim

Collingsworth, Raymond Edward

Eulogy of Raymond Edward Collingsworth
(deceased Thursday, March 9, 2006)

Raymond Edward Collingsworth (Click picture for a larger view)

Raymond Edward Collingsworth was born on October 24, 1930 in Portsmouth, OH, the oldest of four children born into the home of Thomas Edward and Leona Nichols Collingsworth. Most of his growing-up years were spent in the Wheelersburg, OH area. He would tell stories of both his Grandpa Collingsworth and Grandpa Nichols, recalling times when their families visited back to the old home place in Kentucky. He was the big brother to three fun-loving sisters, Ruby, Patsy and Janice, also born to Thomas & Leona.

Raymond only completed schooling through the 9th grade, then left home at a very young age to join the United States Army. He was immediately trained and shipped to the Asian Theater, where the Korean War was already in progress. Raymond always spoke with great love and respect of the years he spent in service to his country. Matter of fact, just recently, he had told his son Phillip that he highly regretted that he did not make a complete career of his Army service. He felt those years were the best years of his life and in retrospect, had wished he had given all his years of strength to his country. Nothing roused greater emotions or a livelier argument in him, than when issues of his nation, the military and politics were mentioned. He loved to debate and would do so in a very lively exchange with anyone who disagreed with his beloved Democratic Party.

On August 13, 1950, at just 19 years of age, Raymond was granted the 3rd highest medal available (among more than 200 medals) to a soldier in the US Army. It might also be interesting to know that this medal is only granted to 1 in about 500,000 soldiers and only 1 Silver Star has been awarded since the current conflict with Iraq has ensued. This gives you some idea of its extreme significance.

The following is a synopsis of the actual presentation of the award made on August 13, 1950:

By direction of President Harry S Truman, the Silver Star (which you can see on display here tonight) for gallantry in action is awarded to the following named officers and enlisted men: Private First Class Raymond E. Collingsworth, RA15412586, Field Artillery, United States Army, a member of Battery B, 52nd Field Artillery Battalion, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on 16 July 1950, near the Kum River, Korea. The 19th Regimental Combat Team, to which the 52nd Field Artillery battalion was attached, had been overrun by overwhelmingly large enemy forces. The enemy had also succeeded in placing a road-block between the withdrawing American units and safety. Several attempts had been made to clear the block. Private Collingsworth approached the senior officer present and volunteered to undertake any duty assigned to him. In the face of withering enemy fire, he assisted in rallying drivers, in overturning wrecked vehicles blocking the road, and in moving unattended vehicles that were impeding progress. He assisted in leading the wounded on operable vehicles and volunteered to man a machine gun that was mounted on one of them. With the approach of dusk, it was determined that a last effort should be made to clear the road-block since, at that time, enemy fire would be less accurate. Just before the signal to move was given, the driver of a quarter-ton truck abandoned his vehicle, thus blocking all behind him. Private Collingsworth coolly took over. He secured an automatic rifleman and a rifleman to assist himself and the convoy started. Private Collingsworth drove skillfully and courageously, refusing to stop even when other vehicles did so. He drove through three islands of enemy resistance in his break for safety. By his daring coolness and gallantry, Private Collingsworth assisted materially in extricating a group of completely surrounded men from certain annihilation. His actions brought high credit to himself and to the military service. He entered the military service from Dayton, Ohio.

This extraordinary display of courage and valor brought many accolades from home and he was the subject of several newspaper articles both in the Dayton, OH and the Portsmouth, OH areas. Raymond was later wounded in action and was transferred back to US soil where he was stationed at the Pentagon in Washington DC. He was given a high security clearance, where it was his job to destroy and burn secret intelligence documents relating to the War in Korea. By this time, he had been promoted to the classification of Sergeant in the US Army.  Raymond received a Honorable Discharge upon completing his time in the US Army and he returned to Dayton, OH, where his parents now lived.  He was able to obtain work right away at Delco Moraine, a division of The General Motors Corporation, in Dayton and he remained employed there for 37 years as a jobsetter, retiring in 1988.

On June 5, 1954, Raymond married his bride of 51 years, Billie Jacqueline Sparks. To their marriage was born three children: Connie Rae, Rena Joy, and Phillip Brian. His wife Billie proceeded him in death by just 14 weeks, after fighting a 6-year valiant battle with ovarian cancer. Just last week, a day or so before he died suddenly and unexpectedly, he told his housekeeper that he was going to see Billie again real soon and that he was ready to go. Raymond very rarely dressed up and to see him in a tie was almost non-existent. But when those rare occasions came along and Billie coaxed, pleaded, and begged him into putting on a tie and suit, he would always wear a tie clip, as he thought this was a part of the unusual event of finally putting on a tie and it was only to be worn for a very special occasion. So it was with much surprise that his Son-in-Law, Dave Hilligoss noticed that his tie clip was laid out on top of his entertainment center just a day or so before he passed away. When Dave asked him why the tie clip was laying out, in a reply that was the personification of Ray’s outlook on life, he told Dave not to worry about it, that it was none of his business. He must have thought that seeing Billie again was a VERY special occasion. So, he is dressed with that rare tie & tie clip tonight, as his daughter Rena ran out and bought a new tie to go with the tie clip, after the rest of the family learned of this incident.

Raymond was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Billie J Collingsworth. He was also proceeded in death by his parents, Thomas Edward Collingsworth and Leona Gebhart, and one sister, Patsy Storey. He is survived by his children: Connie Rae and her husband, David Hilligoss of Arcadia, IN; Rena Joy and her husband, Lowell Lavy of Versailles, OH; and his only son, Phillip Brian and his wife, Kimberly of Burlington, KY. Also surviving are his two sisters, whom he loved dearly: Ruby and her husband, Bob Linville of Dayton, OH and Janice and her husband Rob Mahoney of Columbus, IN. Ray and Billie had 11 grandchildren: Janella and her husband, Jonathan Thompson of Indianapolis, IN; Brandon and Justin Hilligoss of Arcadia, IN; Regina and her soon-to-be husband, Jason Baker, of Erlanger, KY; Danette Lavy of Erlanger, KY; Brent and Allyson Lavy of Versailles, OH; and Brooklyn, Courtney, Phillip & Olivia Collingsworth, all of Burlington, KY. Also, surviving are a host of nieces and nephews, some of which are present here tonight.

Raymond will always be remembered as a man who was very diligent in his work ethic, rarely missing a single day of work in his 37 yrs of employment at General Motors Corp. Even when a terrible blizzard hit the Dayton, OH area in 1977 and everyone else in the neighborhood was inside, trying to stay warm, Ray was outside, alone, trying to get his car started, planning to head out for work, until he found out that even his shop was closed, due to the weather. He always faithfully provided for his family. His children will never forget those Hershey Candy Bars and Matchbox Cars he brought home every Friday, when he stopped to cash his paycheck at Diamond Drug Store, on his way home each Friday evening.

Raymond forged some close friendships with neighbors who lived in the neighborhood where he & Billie lived in the same home for 49 years. When Ray & Billie bought the home at 5355 Haverfield Road, Dayton, OH in December 1955, they had only been married for 1 ½ years and the home was brand new. They were its only occupants. Charles & Sue Blackwell, Dan & Pat Votaw, and Harold & Mary Brown were long-time nearby neighbors who became close friends with Ray & Billie and all helped out many times when their health failed. Ray knew he could call any of these friends to simply walk across the street and help when he and Billie could not do things for themselves. Their children wish to express their sincere thanks to these three couples for the support and friendship you gave to Ray & Billie in their declining years.

Raymond will be remembered for his love of nature, as he always had bird feeders filled with food and watched with great interest as the different species of birds flocked to the feeders. He loved gardening and always kept both an abundant vegetable and flower garden at his home. Many of you here tonight have enjoyed the samples of tomatoes he was so proud of, coming from his own garden. His children will never forget the experiences of their mom & dad canning tomatoes from the garden, then having the jars explode all over the pantry closet. They’ll also never forget the crooked Christmas Trees that were picked out by the children, then brought home for him to try and set up. The scene will forever be in their minds of Raymond, trying to get them to stand up straight, and his signature response to such crazy situations.

He’ll also be remembered for his love of working with his hands. Both he and his sisters Ruby & Janice loved crafts and would work together on projects, a lot of them built by Raymond’s own hands by spending many hours in the workshop in his garage. The beautiful Oak Casket that is the final resting place for Raymond was chosen by his children to signify his love for working with wood and he would have so loved and appreciated the artistry and craftsmanship that went into making the casket.

To each of you that have joined his family tonight to remember Raymond, thank you for coming. You have honored Raymond, just by being present.

Collis, Clifford E. Sr.

Clifford E. Collis Sr. died of cancer in January 1998.

Conde, Gabe "Moose"

Member of Stable Able 1/7, Gabe "Moose" Conde of St. Louis, Missouri passed away 1/25/2006 in St. Louis.

Obituary:

Gabriel Clarence Conde 'Moose' age 79, Tuesday January 24, 2006. Beloved husband of the late Virginia E. Conde (nee Winkler); Loving father of Mary Rae (Greg) Hunt and Martin Conde; Dear grandfather of Trevor (Katie); and great grandfather of Tyler; Dearest brother of Marie Faulkner, James Conde and the late Noralee LeBrun, Cortez, Harrison, Percy and John Conde. Our dear brother in law, uncle, great uncle, cousin and friend. Services: Visitation at KUTIS South County Chapel, 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd. (Butler Hill) on Sunday January 29 from 3-9pm then taken to Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 Soulard (63104) for Funeral Services Monday January 30 at 10 am. Interment St. Trinity Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions to Trinity Lutheran Church appreciated..."

From: The St.Louis Post-Dispatch Newspaper online edition
Published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on 1/28/2006.

Cornish, Robert J.

Robert J. Cornish, 73, of Fairmount, died Thursday, April 7, 2005, at Community Hospital. Born in Ogdensburg, NY, he was the son of the late Harold and Lena Cornish. He served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He retired from Onondaga Beverage and T. J. Sheehan, where he worked for over 33 years. Robert was past commander and a lifetime member of the Tipperary Hill Post #1361, and a past member of the Salt City VFW and Korean War Veterans. Surviving are his wife of 52 years, Marion (Brigandi); daughters, Debbie (Alvin) Burch of Weedsport, Judy (Roma) Miller of Baldwinsville, and Wendy (Randy) Bochino of Fairmount; seven grandchildren, Alvin and Christie Burch, R.J. and Erica Miller, Randy, Chelsea, and Bobbie Bochino; two sisters, Shirley Parhow of Weedsport and Joanne Morrison of Solvay; and several nieces and nephews. Services were held at the Edward J. Ryan & Son Funeral Home and 10 a.m. in Holy Family Church. Burial was in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Published in the Syracuse Post Standard on 4/9/2005.

Counts, Charles W.

Charles W. Counts, veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, died November 2003.

Cox, Bobby Joe

Bobby Joe Cox of Almont, age 76, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 27, 2006, at his home after an extended illness.  Bobby Joe was born April 19, 1930 in Dickson, Tennessee, the son of Alfred and Rosa Mai Cox. He later served in the Korean War, where he earned many honors, including a Purple Heart. However, due to his humble nature, Bobby Joe refused the Purple Heart, saying there were others who were more deserving than himself. Likewise, his family, knowing the amazing person he was, believes he was truly deserving of the Purple Heart he left behind.  He was a Staff Sergeant in Company M, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division.

On October 12, 1978, Bobby Joe married Pauline Ann Wegner in Lapeer. The two enjoyed many family times together, traveling, bingo, gambling, hunting, and fishing from their boat called “The Little Brown Jug.”  Later, in 1995, Bobby Joe retired from the Chrysler Corporation after many years of dedicated service.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Pauline Cox of Almont; children, Kevin (Kathy) Cox of Metamora, Darrell Cox of New Baltimore, Debra Wegner of Imlay City, Kimberly Wegner of Lapeer, Karen (Ron) Ruzycki of Goodland Twp.; grandchildren, Kevin (Heather) Cox, Samantha and Jessica Cox, Heather Moore, Crystal (Ed) Guerrero, Nicholas and Tifani VanDenBerg, and Kristole Ruzycki; great-grandchildren, Cameron and Corey Cox, Madison Lowe, Dominik and Aden Guerrero.  His parents, and his only brother, William Cox, preceded Bobby Joe in death.

Visitation was at Kaatz Funeral Home in Capac. A military funeral service was held Thursday, August 31, 1 p.m., at the Funeral Home in Capac. Burial took place at West Berlin Cemetery in Berlin Township, followed by a luncheon in the Berlin Twp. Hall in Allenton. Heartland Hospice Chaplin Burt Davis officiated over the service.

Cox, Jack H.

Jack H. Cox, veteran of World War II and Korea, died September 1989 and was buried in Lithia Springs, Georgia.

Crain, Dennis Felbert

Mr. Dennis F. Crain, 79, entered into rest Tuesday, April 18, 2006.  Mr. Crain was born in East Lake, North Carolina, the son of the late John Will and Martha Jane Bateman Crain. He was pre-deceased by a son, Rex Allen Grover. Mr. Crain was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Army in World War II and from 1955-1956 with Co C, 13th Armored Infantry Battalion and Headquarters Co. CCA 3 AD. He enlisted at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina in 1945, and was a Chief of Police for 23 years. The "Guitar Man" as he was known to many, sold guitars and stringed instruments in the area. Mr. Crain is survived by his wife Irma Jo Bishop Crain, daughter and son-in-law Lynn and James Holton of Midway, Georgia, a sister Ina McGowan, and a niece Ginger Mackel, both of Bellhaven, North Carolina.

Cyr, William

To let fellow comrades know - Sgt. William Cyr who served with the U.S. Army's Third Infantry Division in Korea, died June 2, 2006, at home.

Dabbs, Ralph

Lt. Col. Ralph T. Dabbs, Retired U.S. Army, of College Park died August 31, 2006. Colonel Dabbs had a long and distinguished Army career, serving in World War II and Korea. He was honored with a Silver Star and a Purple Heart. At one time he was Commander of the President's Honor Guard and the Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery. Mr. Dabbs graduated from The Citadel and Emory University School of Law, and he also taught ROTC at several schools in the Atlanta area. Colonel Dabbs was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine Lang Dabbs, and he is survived by his brother, Charles F. and Mary Dabbs of Ann Arbor, MI; his nephew, Michael F. Dabbs of Ann Arbor, MI; his nieces, Patricia Dabbs of Charlotte, NC and Julia Dabbs, PhD. of Morris, MN; and dear friends, Judy and Ron Cleveland of Stockbridge, Peggy Isenburg of Snellville, and Ruby Reeves of College Park. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date and burial will be at Chattanooga National Cemetery with Full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the American Cancer Assoc., 2200 Century Pkwy, Suite 950, Atlanta, GA 30345. Carmichael-Hemperley Funeral Home, East Point, GA 404-761-1138. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on 9/3/2006.

Davis, Nick

Nick Davis - born 9/30/1929 - death 11/10 2006

My father's name was Nick Davis. He was a Greek American drafted into the army from Michigan and sent to California for quick basic training. He said as soon as they found out he was a cook he was shipped to Alaska. I remembering him saying that the army bus in California he was in tipped off the road and he woke up in the hospital a couple days later. He served as head cook (Sergeant) in Alaska during the Korean War. He was in charge of feeding all the troops and USO that passed through. I remember him saying thousands of souls passed through his kitchen daily. His favorite story was that he received a cigar from Red Skeleton after feeding him and his USO Company. He came home and worked as a bouncer in a Detroit bar before becoming a chef. I know he worked at Detroit Yacht Club, the Roostertail and Carl's Chop House on Grand River during the 50's or 60's. In the mid 70's he opened D & H Tire store on Van Born road in Taylor, MI. His family carries on his name in Bloomfield, MI. God Bless

Davis, Ray

From the Korea Times by Jeffrey Miller, Feature Writer:

Korean War Hero Dies at 88

Raymond G. Davis, a retired U.S. Marine general who was one of America’s most highly-decorated military officers, died on Wednesday in Georgia after suffering a heart attack. He was 88. Davis, a recipient of the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor had an impressive military career that spanned over 33 years and three wars--World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam.

He is perhaps best known here in Korea for his valiant efforts during fierce fighting around the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea in 1950 when he led a battalion of marines over a treacherous mountaintop to rescue a beleaguered rifle company. For his actions he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest American award for heroism. During his military career, he was also awarded the Navy Cross, two Distinguished Service Medals, two Silver Stars, two Legion of Merit awards, a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart among his many awards.

President Richard Nixon nominated Davis to the rank of general in 1971. Gen. Davis ended his military service as assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, the nation's second-highest ranking Marine when he retired in 1972. After retiring from the military, Davis worked tirelessly for the creation of the Korean War Veterans Memorial as well as his efforts in the search for the remains of U.S. service members in North Korea. He was also a board member of the U.S.-Korea 2000 Foundation, Inc., which worked closely with Korean War veterans and helped to promote a better understanding of the war and its legacy. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Willa Knox Davis, two sons, one daughter and seven grandchildren.

Davis, Virgil L.

Virgil L. "Virg" Davis, beloved husband of the late Evelyn Davis, devoted father of Shirley "Sam" (Eric), Timothy (Pam), Dale "Tony" (Olivia), Thomas (Deb) Davis, also survived by 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, dear brother of Susan Burgess, died Wednesday, May 30, 2007, at the age of 79. Funeral services were held at the Naegele, Kleb & Ihlendorf Funeral Home, 3900 Montgomery Rd, Norwood, Friday, June 1 at 1:30 p.m. Memorials may be directed to the Korean War Memorial Fund, PO Box 2372, Washington DC 20013-1372.

Diehl, Robert (Bob)

Bob Diehl died October 27, 2006 after fighting cancer for the last five years.  He served in the 2nd Platoon (7th Marines) in Korea December 1951 to December 1952.  His widow lives in Elgin, IL.

Doan, James C.

James C. Doan died August 1, 1998.  He served in Korea January 9, 1951 through May 9, 1952.

Doyle, Pat

Pat Doyle, 40th Infantry Division, 223rd Infantry Regiment, Item Company, 3rd Platoon, passed away June 2005. Twelve of us from San Antonio, TX, served with Pat from January 1951 to April 1952 when he was wounded while on patrol. Ruben Castro, from San Antonio also, was killed on that same patrol.  Three of us from San Antonio visited with Pat in May of 2004, during a 40th Division reunion in Schulenburg, TX. It was great to see Pat after all these years.  Pat is no longer with us, but he will always be remembered by veterans from Item Company.

Submitted by J. Alvarez.

Duran, Joe Raymond (J.R.)

Joe Raymond (J.R.) Duran, was called home by Our Lord and Savior, Saturday, October 1, 2005 in Littleton, Colorado. He was born March 16, 1930 in El Ojito, Colorado (near Hoehne) to Jose Emmitt Duran and Antonia Mestas. He attended Hoehne High School and Trinidad State Junior College. He married Maria Lidia Medina on November 3, 1951 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Together, they made a home and established Duran Oil Company and J.R.'s Fuel Stops. He was the co-founder of J.R.’s Country Stores.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1949 – 1952, 24th Infantry Division, 34th Infantry Regiment, 63rd Field Artillery Battalion B Battery and suffered from a severe head wound. He was awarded a Bronze Star for bravery, one Bronze Camp Star, Korean Service Medal, Army of Occupation (Japan), Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation and a Purple Heart for being wounded in action. He was also an honorary member of “Task Force Smith”, the first wave of soldiers to battle in Korea. He worked at Couey Storage from 1952-1953. He earned a degree in auto mechanics from Trinidad Junior College 1953-1955. He worked for Rosen-Novak Ford in 1956, Sanders Skyline Service 1956-1957 and Continental Oil Company (Conoco) 1957-1977.

J.R.’s honesty, integrity and hard work was the foundation to starting his companies. Today Duran Oil Company and J.R.’s Fuel Stops employ 185 people in nine different cities located in Colorado, New Mexico and Oklahoma. His employees were an extension of his family and he would do everything in his power to help them. His sense of humor was endless with everyone. His employees have said of J.R. and his wife that they were the nicest people they had ever met. J.R. and Lidia promoted Trinidad, Las-Animas County and the surrounding area on a daily basis as a great place to live. J.R. spread the word about Trinidad and the area he loved not only in the United States, but also abroad. He will be remembered for helping many people including complete strangers. Being a humble man, he never spoke of the many compliments he received from people. He didn’t look for praise, recognition or expect anything in return. He felt contributing back to his community was his duty and a privilege.

He founded the Korean War Veterans Southern Colorado Chapter with the help of area veterans. J.R. lost many friends from Las Animas and Huerfano counties during the Korean War and wanted to honor their sacrifice with a memorial. After a lot of hard work, the Korean Memorial came to fruition and now stands at the Colorado Visitors Center. He also spearheaded the Coal Miners’ Memorial in downtown Trinidad to honor the local coal miners and their families. J.R. always said the coal miners helped make the area unique and special and they deserved recognition.

In J.R.’s spare time he enjoyed ranching, tending to his horses and cattle. When he wasn’t busy doing that he was irrigating, raising and bailing hay on his farms while attending to all other issues that a farmer is confronted with.

He was a member of the following organizations: Colorado Wyoming Petroleum Marketers, Fisher’s Peak Volunteer Fire Department, Trinidad Historical Society, Southern Colorado Korean War Veterans, North American Truck Stop Association, Trinidad Riding Club, Trinidad Round-Up Association, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion Post 11, VFW Post 984, Las Animas County Planning Commission. He was also the founder, first president and board member of the Trinidad-Las Animas County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He was Grand Marshall of the Trinidad Labor Day Parade and also the Trinidad Parade of Lights.

He was a dedicated husband, a wonderful father and grandfather and an honest family man. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his brothers Jose Florencio and John Emmitt Duran.  He is survived by his children: Veronica (Joaquin) Rivera, Pueblo, Bernadette Duran, Trinidad, Ray (Christina) Duran, Trinidad and Corinne Duran (Fritz) Abeyta, Littleton; grandchildren Teresa Rivera, Lucita Rivera, Carson Ortega, Steven Ortega Jr., Brett Duran, Chelsea Duran, Bethany Duran, Chanel Duran, KylieRae Duran, Brittany Duran-Abeyta, Jayden Duran-Abeyta; great grandchildren Nicholas Ortega, Kayleen Ortega, Riley Ortega, newborn Jamison Ortega; brother Max Duran, Trinidad, sisters Dolores (Herman) Sanchez, Pueblo, Virginia (Tom) Valdez, Mountainaire, N.M.; sisters-in-law Corinne Arguello and Sue (Lee) Lucero, all of Pueblo, brothers-in-law Greg (Dolores) Medina, Trinidad and Piedad (Henrietta) Medina, Pueblo; and many members of his large extended family. Special friends Judie Matticks, Felix Chavez and especially Jim Mangino and his family for the donation of Jim's kidney to extend the life of this extraordinary man.

Honorary pallbearers are Leandro Lucero, Ron Sanchez, Mickey Montoya, Felix Chavez, Jim Mangino, Orlando Baca and George Mondragon, all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Thursday, Oct. 6, 2005 from 2-7 p.m. Rosary will follow at 7 p.m. at the Mullare-Murphy Funeral Home.  Military burial will be held Friday, Oct. 7, 2005 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church at 10 a.m. with Father Bob Hagan, S.J. as the celebrant. Burial will follow at Trinidad Catholic Cemetery. After the service the family may be contacted at St. Joseph hall. Donations may be made to the J.R. Duran Diabetes Memorial Fund, in care of Bank of the West, located at 125 North Commercial Street, Trinidad, CO.

The family has entrusted the Mullare-Murphy Funeral Home with the arrangements. A video memorial tribute may be viewed on Thursday, Oct. 6 on local cable channel 71 at 8:00-8:30 a.m., 12:30-1:00 p.m., and the rosary may be heard live at 7:00 along with the presentation memorial tribute.

Duran, Ruben J.

Ruben J. Duran died August 20, 2001, in Denver.  He was a U.S. Army photographer.  He resided in Thornton, CO.

Dutton, Irvin C. Sr.

Irvin C. Dutton Sr., 85, St. Joseph, died Thursday, April 12, 2007, at Heartland Regional Medical Center.  Mr. Dutton was born October 30, 1921, in Independence, Missouri. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, the Korean War, and in Vietnam. He married Thelma L. (Sherman) Dutton November 1, 1976. She survives of the home.  He was a cook for the United States Navy and retired after 25 years of service. He also retired from Skaggs in 1985.

Mr. Dutton was a member of McCarthy Baptist Church, American Legion Post 359, and was a V.F.W. lifetime member. Irvin loved his family and America. He was a great American hero to his family and friends.  If you knew him the family would love to hear from you! Contact his granddaughter Kayla at: xkaylaleex@yahoo.com.

[Posted 4/18/07]

Esensten, Sid

Sid Esensten passed away yesterday (Feb. 08, 2006) in Palm Springs, CA, the day before his 83d birthday. Sid was captured within hours of his arrival at his unit in the 25th Infantry Division, and was one of the few surviving doctors who witnessed the worst month of American captivity in North Korea, having been one of the doctors put in charge of the “hospital” at Camp Five during the winter of 1951. Sid said that at least a thousand men died during February of that year, many of them from the combined effects of exposure, malnutrition and disease. He knew both Kapaun and Mac, and spoke highly of them both.

Farnum, John Lenox

John Lennox Farnum served in World War II and Korea. He was career Army National Guard after Korea.  He is the father of 11 children, grandfather of 27, and great grandfather of 16. He died April 2, 1985 of a heart attack. His service was instrumental in two of my brothers joining the Guard, one brother joining the Navy, and the baby of the family (a girl) joining the Marines. He is greatly missed by me and my siblings. To all others who have served or are serving their country and therefore us--your fellow citizens, I just want to say Thank You. - Lisa

Farwell, Charles R.

Mr. Charles R. Farwell, aged 77, of Grand Rapids, a decorated veteran of the Korean War, passed away Saturday April 19, 2008. Surviving are his sisters, Rose (Richard) Fliearman, Alberta Hodges, Carol (John) Keenan; numerous nieces and nephews, special friends, Lisa and Paul Siebert and family, Duane DeRoo, Jennifer and Sylvain Stym-Popper. He was preceded in death by parents, Reuben and Agnes; brother, Martin; and nephew, Christopher Fliearman. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, 10 a.m. at the Arsulowicz Brothers, East Mortuary, 937 Michigan St. NE, where the family will accept visitors one hour before the service. Interment Fort Custer National Cemetery where full military honors will take place. Memorial contributions to Midtown Neighborhood Association will be appreciated. Arsulowicz Brothers, East Mortuary, www.arsulowiczbrothers.com.

Published in the Grand Rapids Press on 4/20/2008.

Fento, Stephen F. Jr.

Stephen F. Fento Jr., 72, of 26 Plum Street, Oil City, Pennsylvania, died at 6:35 a.m. Friday, July 27, 2007, at UPMC Northwest in Seneca. He was surrounded by his family.

Born August 24, 1934, in Oil City, he was a son of Stephen F. Fento Sr. and Harriett Swartzlander Fento.  Mr. Fento served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  On August 30, 1958, he married Sandra Beach.  He retired from Oilwell Supply where he was a crane operator.  Mr. Fento was an active member of the Free Methodist church of Oil City.  He enjoyed playing golf.

He is survived by his wife Sandra; his five children: Steve Fento and wife, Colleen, of Oil City, David Fento and wife, Carolyn of New York, Tim Fento and wife, Danielle, of Oil City, Kaylene Cartney and husband, Patrick, of Titusville, and Terry Fento and wife, Carolyn, of Oklahoma; and 16 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.  Also surviving are two sisters, Janet M. Haniwalt of Franklin and Wanda McDaniel of Maryland; four sisters-in-law, Linda Miller, Lori Bly and her husband, Fred, all of Oil City, Diane Worley and husband, Bo, and Joan Sanford, all of Louisiana; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Rose Tarr, and three brothers-in-law, Tim Beach, Bob Miller and Daniel Beach.

Funeral services were held at the Free Methodist Church of Oil City with the Rev. T. Christopher Hill officiating.  Interment was in Rockland Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Free Methodist Church of Oil City.

Fenton, Col. Francis Ivan "Ike" Jr.

Colonel Ike Fenton died of natural causes on 11 October 1998.  Captain Fenton at the time, he commanded Baker Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Provisional Marine Brigade.  As commander of Baker Company, he was involved in the action along the Pusan Perimeter in the early days of the Korean War.  He was well known within the Marine Corps.

Ford, Lt. Col. Jim Gibson

Lt. Col. Jim Gibson Ford (Click picture for a larger view)

Lt. Col. Jim Gibson Ford, United States Air Force Retired, of Oceanside, California, passed away, Tuesday, July 26, 2005, at Mount Vernon, Washington. Born December 9, 1919 in Sherrill, Arkansas, he began life as a Southern country boy, joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1939, and then became a commissioned officer in 1942. A 27-year career officer in the Air Force, he served in Europe and the South Pacific in World War II. He also served in the Korean War. He completed his service at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona working with NORAD. After his retirement from the military, he worked as a software engineer for G.E./Honeywell Corporations. Beyond his second career, he was active in retirement through his church, as an ombudsman for residents in local retirement homes while living in Arizona and as a Pastoral Minister for prisoners in the CA Penal System. He was a firm and constant believer in God, family, and country and an eternal optimist. "Hopefully, the story I tell may enrich your life, strengthen your will to stand tall and show that you can change the world, at least that around you." (My Life As I Lived It, Jim Gibson Ford, 2005).

At the rank of Captain he was awarded the Legion of Merit for his extraordinary service to his country for his leadership on the "The Voice of the United Nations" Psychological Warfare campaign during the Korean War.
www.centercomp.com/cgi-bin/dc3/stories?1965

Survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Shirley K. Ford, his six children and sons-in-law/daughter-in-law; Christie Ford, Carol and Tom Hecker, Marian and Steve Webber, Ann and Dennis Hoins, Julie and Doug Kays and Margaret and John Ford, and his 13 grandchildren. Surviving sisters and brother: Helen Ford Swindle, Dorothy Lee "Jane" Kennedy and Robert Franklin Ford, Jr. We will all miss his smile, his laugh, and his love of life and of us. Services to be held Monday, August 22nd, 10:30am at the Church of St. Thomas More, 1450 South Melrose Dr., Oceanside, CA. Internment will follow at the Mission San Luis Rey Cemetery, 4050 Mission Ave., Oceanside; reception after at the Church of St. Thomas More.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church of St. Thomas More Building Fund.

Frank, Hal T.

I am writing to report that my father, Hal T. Frank, about whom I vented in a distressed letter to the Korean War Educator several weeks ago, died on Saturday, December 18, 2004. He was buried with full military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne on December 23, 2004. The ceremony was profoundly moving. We were able to celebrate his life in a very meaningful way. He would have liked all the things people said about him, and the piper, and the beautiful songs and hymns sung by an Irish tenor. (I wish he could have heard it all!)

Hal Thurston Frank was born on March 30, 1928, to Geneva (Thurston) and Leroy Winslow Frank, in Poland, Maine. He was the first-born of eight brothers and sisters, including the late Gertrude M. Frank of Vassalboro, ME, the late Timothy Frank of Poland, ME, and the late Philip Frank of Hanover, MA. He is survived by two sisters, JoAnn Frank of Auburn, ME, and Sally Belisle of Lewiston, ME, and two brothers, Freeman Frank of Melrose, MA, and Royal Frank of Poland, ME.

He was a member of the 1946 graduating class of Edward Little High School, Lewiston, ME. In July, 1946, he enlisted in the United States Army, and, according to his discharge papers, arrived at Fort Banks, MA, on August 7, 1946. He wanted to be a medic, and had dreams of becoming a doctor someday. He quickly became fluent in German, and was sent to Germany to serve after the war. He was stationed in Germany for three years. Told he would be stationed stateside if he "re-upped", he did just that--and then conflict broke out in Korea. He was deployed there where he served as a medic in combat with a unit that put up power lines (or the equivalent). He was discharged from the Army at Camp Kilmer, NJ, on July 25, 1951.

He studied at Boston University, Northeastern University, and Boston College for several years. While in college, he worked at Metropolitan State Hospital and Boston State Hospital. He met a young nurse, Kathryn Ruth MacKay, at Met State, in 1953. They married in October, 1953. I was born in September, 1954. My parents had two more children after me--my sister Sara (born in 1956), and my brother Tom (born in 1961).

My father's ambition to become a doctor died on the battlefields of Korea. For thirty years, he worked for the U.S. Postal Service, but the passion of his life was always books--He loved poetry, history, science, philosophy. He loved Irish music and folk music. He was brilliant and humble, never accepting that he was special in any way. He passed on his love of learning to his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed conversation with all kinds of people. He was tolerant of everyone, but detested "braggarts, liars, and windbags".  He enjoyed the camaraderie of many people, and loved good pubs, good food, good stories, good music, and Guinness Stout—not necessarily in that order! He loved parades, historic sites, museums, New England Autumns, Spring, Poland, Maine, libraries, bookstores, all the Holidays--and all occasions of family celebrations and dinners.

My anguish is all the greater because he suffered so much in the end, and his death was the result of a doctor's tragic mistake; but I am so grateful I was blessed with extra time with him, and was able to tell him how much I loved him. My sister and I held his hands until his heart beat for the last time. I am so glad we were able to be with him at the end of his final battle. (Death may be a necessary part of this life, but this pain is almost unbearable. How do people get through it? I can't do his paperwork or sort through his things. I miss him so much.)

Thank you for writing to me, Lynnita, and for your reassuring words about my father being in the arms of the Savior. My greatest fear has been that he would go to a Christ-less eternity and that I would never see him again. In the end, I know, and throughout this ordeal, my father's life has been in God's hands alone. I knew once he left this life, there was no point in continuing anxious prayers on his behalf. My hope was and is that he did meet Jesus again, and embraced him as he did once as a little boy. If this is the case, I know he is experiencing a peace and a joy greater than anything he could ever have had if he stayed in this life on Earth, and that I will see him some day in Heaven.

I am so glad for your website, the Korean War Educator. It has been such a comfort. It is extremely important to my siblings and me that my father's life is not simply "erased". We want the world to know he lived, loved and was loved, and that this world is a better place because he was once apart of it. The inscription on his grave marker comes from one of his favorite poems: "...Gentle sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over." Thank you, Lynnita, for all your support. May the good Lord continue to bless you and all those you love in the coming year! - Brenda Charrier

Freitas, Edward

Edward Freitas of 14275 Shiffy Lane, Casterville, CA 95012, died on Wednesday, February 1, 2006.  He was a member of the Outpost Harry Survivors Association.  He served in Korea in Company G, 15th Regiment, 2nd Battalion.  Cause of death was cancer, lung infection, and pneumonia.

Fuller, Gene A.

Gene A. Fuller, 75, of Chesapeake, Ohio, husband of 51 years to Janet Curry Fuller, died on Friday May 4, 2007, in St. Mary's Medical Center. Graveside service were conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday May 8, 2007 at Rome Cemetery, Proctorville, Ohio by Rev. Richard Black. Chesapeake American Legion conducted military graveside rites.

Gene was born September 4, 1931 in Huntington, WV, son of Ora and Gladys Weaver Fuller, who are also now deceased. He was also preceded in death by brothers Gary and Forest, and sisters Verna Lee, Lucille, and Evelyn. In addition to his wife, Gene is survived by five daughters: Gina (Harley Jr.) Finch, Kelly (John Jr.) Skeens, and Kristi (Philip) Wilson of Chesapeake, Karen Leslie (Roger) Dillon of Scottown, and Dianna Fuller of South Point; ten grandchildren: Katie, Brady, and Bailee Wilson, Adam and Seth Skeens and Jennifer Finch all of Chesapeake, Mindy (Will) Breeden of St. Albans, WV, Jessica (Talmadge) Bacon of South Point, John (Kelli) Finch of Morehead, KY, and Josh Murdock of Scottown, OH; three great grandchildren Alycia and Jordan Bacon and Nicholas Finch; brothers Bill (Betty) Fuller and David (Blanche) Fuller of Seneca, SC; brothers-in-law Mike, Buzz and Bob Curry; and sister-in-law Sue Vickers all of Chesapeake, OH; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was a Marine Corps veteran and served his country in the Korean War. He was a retired steel worker and served as a union steward for the United Steel Workers Local Union 37. He enjoyed working the last seven years of his life at Sam's Club of South Point, Ohio, where he had made many friends and loyal customers. Gene loved working, and in Sam's Club he found an employer who appreciated his hard work and treated him well.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to the Children's Miracle Network, which can be done at any Sam's or Wal-Mart.

---

Note to the Korean War Educator:  "My father passed away suddenly on May 4, 2007, at the age of 75 years old. He died of a massive heart attack with severe three vessel coronary artery disease.  My father had no idea he had heart problems. My father was an excellent father, husband, brother and friend to many. He was also a proud Marine and served his country with pride and dignity.

He is was in the First Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, F.M.F., 1st Marine Regiment, 3rd Battalion, Anti Tank & Assault Company, attached to I Company. The major battles he did talk about most often were the battle of the Hook and the battle of Bunker Hill, also known as Hill 800 . My father was a true Marine and served his country with pride. He never forgot any of his buddies he served with and was able to re-connect with a few of his buddies or their families before he died. I am forever grateful to Steve Alves who is the son of William Lux Alves who served with my father in Korea. Steve talked to my dad, and with Steve's dad’s memories, they were able to talk about things in Korea. My mother passed away a week ago on Thursday morning, February 7, 2008, after a battle with renal cell carcinoma of the kidneys. I promised my mother I would re-connect with Steve again since she had lost contact with him in 2001. I am sad to say I didn’t find him until after Mom’s death after going through many papers. But I am happy to say I fulfilled what she had asked of me to do. Steve will be getting in contact with me soon. I appreciate everything this website does to bring other vets together and their families." - Karen Leslie Fuller Dillon, the third daughter of Gene and Janet Fuller

Giles, Ralph Oliver

Private Ralph Oliver Giles served in the Second Infantry Division from sometime in late 1950 to February 1951. He was wounded by a Chinese soldier and his most significant injury was to his left lung. After returning to the United States, he continued to serve his country as a civilian employee until his retirement in 1979. After retirement, he still continued to serve his community through church, community organizations, and helping children in the neighborhood with hobbies and other activities. He died on July 25, 1984. He is missed by his wife, Carolynn Giles, his daughter Sharon Giles, and his two sons, Marshall and Ernie Giles. His daughter Sharon is an English professor in South Korea. His son Marshall was a missionary to the Philippines and is now a businessman. His son Ernie served in the US Army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma from 1982 to 1984.

Ginnis, Lt. Col. Robert W.

Lt. Colonel Ginnis left this world in the afternoon of August 9, 2005.  He is survived by his wife, Constance Ginnis of Germantown, Maryland, four loving children, and eight grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his youngest daughter, Marie Constance Ginnis.  He will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

Gledhill, Arlee McKelvey

Arlee McKelvey Gledhill died 20 September 1993 and was buried at National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon.  Arlee joined the Marines on August 19, 1948 when he was 17. He was deployed to Korea from San Diego on August 17, 1950. He was in the 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Battalion, Charlie Company (Captain Robert Wray). He participated in the amphibious landing at Inchon, the seizure of Seoul (was WIA on 26 September), the Wonsan-Hungnam-Chosin campaign, and surviving all that, remained to fight “against enemy forces in south and central Korea,” returning to San Francisco on 25 May, 1951. As far as I know, Arlee never married or had children. He was always “on his own.” It makes me sad when I think about him pulling out of port for Korea with no family waving good-bye, no one to write him letters during his nine hellish months in Korea, and no one to welcome him back. He re-enlisted and served at the Naval Ordnance Plant in Pocatello, Idaho and at the Naval Station in Adak, Alaska. I don’t know how he spent the rest of his life, except that in his later years, he enjoyed playing dominoes. I think that his fellow vets were all the family he had. Arlee, you were a good man, and God and your country know that.  Arlee was my father's cousin. - Posted by Marcia Simpson

Goff, Robert Lloyd

Robert Lloyd Goff, a member of the 3rd Infantry Division Military Police, died in March of 2003.

Goode, Lem

Lem Goode of Fresno, California passed away August 26, 2006, 1900 at the VA Hospital in Fresno.  Lem was a member of Weapons Co. 1/7 (USMC) in Korea.

Greenwood, Col. Bartley Jay Jr.

Col. Bartley Jay Greenwood, Jr., of Pensacola, FL, died August 31, 2005 at Baptist Manor.  He was born in Chattanooga, TN on 12 September 1918, but the family soon moved to Granite City, IL, then to West Frankfort, IL.  He attended McKendree College in Lebanon, IL from  1938-1940, where he participated in football, basketball, track, and was coeditor of the college newsletter.

Bart entered the Army in 1941 and served until 1944 in the South Pacific.  In 1944 he received a medical separation.  He earned a BS in Education from Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL in 1945; and an MS in Education from the University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, in 1951.  In 1952 he was teaching and coaching about to become Headmaster at Onarga Military Academy, Onarga, IL, when he was recalled to military service.

• 1953-54: Performed in various staff and command positions in 2nd Infantry Divisional Artillery Unit in Korea; worked with UN Repatriations Group in the demilitarized zone.
• 1954: Served with an air defense battalion in Chicago
• 1956-60: Taught military history in the Georgia Tech ROTC Program; served as curriculum coordinator for career office courses at Fort Bliss, TX; attended Command General Staff College, Ft. Leavenworth, KS
• 1960-63: As assistant intelligence officer, V Corps Artillery, was responsible for Russian and East German Order of Battle and the Corps Nuclear Target Plan
• 1963-66: Army advisor to a Missouri National Guard Air Defense Battalion in the Kansas City, MO Air Defense
• 1966-68: Chief of the Rest and Recuperation Branch in Bangkok, Thailand, in support of the US Command in Vietnam; responsible for briefing and debriefing 6,000 troops per month
• 1968-69: Analyst on the Continental Army Commanders' Regional Manpower Survey Team, Fort McPherson, Atlanta, GA
• 1969: Retired from service as a colonel in USAR

He received the Bronze Star Medal; American Defense Service Medal; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal; Korean Service Medal; United Nations Service Medal; National Defense Services Medal; Commendation Ribbon w/Metal Pendant w/1 OLC; Basic Missileman Badge; Joint Service Commendation Medal.

Upon retirement from the Army in 1969, Bart moved to Pensacola, where he met and married Estelle Lorenz.  He taught 8th grade Civics at Wedgewood Middle School.  He retired in 1980, and because he believed in giving back to the community, he devoted many years to volunteer work with Reading is Fundamental, the Humane Society, and 15 years with the Five Flags Dog Training Club "Responsible Pet Ownership" program.

He and Estelle also reestablished connection with friends from McKendree College, and organized 9 "Florida Fling" reunions, and for 15 years published "Open Line," a quarterly newsletter for McKendree friends.  Bart wrote a chapter, "McKendreans in World War II," for the McKendree College History 1928-1978.  In 1990, he received the prestigious Peter Akers award for outstanding service to the college.

Bar was an avid reader.  He loved to play golf, fish, garden, travel, bake, and cook.  He was dubbed "The Happy Cooker."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bartley J. and Nancye Cushman Greenwood.  Bart is survived by his wife of 32 years, Dr. Estelle Lorenz Greenwood; sister, Mary Greenwood of Gifford, IL; cousin Betty Cushman Berry (Sandy) of Hilton Head, SC; stepdaughter Dr. Brenna Lorenz (Dr. Mike Pulte) of State College, PA; stepson Philip J. Lorenz (Valerie) of Winchester, TN; daughter-in-law Karol Greenwood Williams (Curtis) of Clifton, VA; grandchildren Megaera Lorenz (Glenn Garrabrant) of Chicago, IL; Malachi Pulte; Carter, Jeffrey, and Matthew Williams; niece Norma Carole McDonald (Ray) of Mt. Olive, NC; nephews Tony Winstead (Lynn) of Mt. Olive, NC and Dr. Daniel C. Sumerlin Jr. (Suzie) of Roanoke, VA; brother-in-law Fred Alphin, Jr. (Glenna) of Raleigh, NC; sister-in-law Mary Alphin of Issaquah, WA; Goddaughter Kathy B. Gardner of Los Angeles, CA; and last, but not least, his beloved cats, Shana and Schatze. 

A memorial service will be held at the Navy Hospital Chapel sometime in late October or early November.  Memorials may be made to the Estelle and Bart Greenwood Scholarship Fund, McKendree College, 701 College Rd., Lebanon, IL 62254.

Griffin, Julius Benjamin

Lt. Col. Julius Benjamin Griffin died unexpectedly on Ja