June - 97th Signal Battalion Association

THE COMMUNICATOR97th Signal Battalion AssociationFor Those Who Served 1942 to 1993Published three times per year:Issue 2, June 2009The CommunicatorIssued to members of the 97th SignalBattalion Association as an informationalguide to activities of the Association, andto further the comradeship betweenactive members; not only for now butalso in the future.Active members receive this publicationwith membership. Inactive members mayobtain copies by sending $2.50 per copyto the Secretary.Any news items, etc. to be published inThe Communicator should be sent tothe editors before the cut-off dates listedbelow:Feb. 1, June 1, Oct 1.Communication:Secretary/Treasurer.:James A. Dykes,1167 Oak Knoll Court,Folsom, CA 95630Tel.: (916) 984-4634E-mail: 97sigbnsectrea@pacbell.netNewsletter Co-editorsWalt & Melitta Fort1048 Buckingham Dr.Allentown, PA 18103-9785Tel: (610)740-0808E-mail: wmf97@rcn.comVisit our Website:www.triedandtrue.orgJon Kilburn, Webmaster &Cyberland guruPO BOX 1337Warren, MI 48090E-mail: Jon@kilburn.orgNew Newsletterpublication datesThe Newsletter will now appearthree (3) times a year:February, June and October.Many members can alsoread/print the newsletter online.Those members withoutcomputer access will receivea copy in the mail.Note: Please note the new ID#and password for theCOMMUNICATOR online: page 2It was a Grand Reunion … in the state ofArizona, home of the awesome Grand Canyonand other great sites.Jimmy Dykes organized a great reunionfor all, including airport chauffeuring services,with the help of Jerry and MargaretBuza - new members - residing inMesa, as well as intrepid Bob Sentell;Bob and Jim are pros!Many regular attendees came, and wewere happy to welcome first time attendees.The pool was the main gatheringplace for visits with old pals. The PCroom provided a cool spot to sit andcatch up.Accommodations and the Banquetentertainment were reminiscent of the50’s— Motel style rooms and easydancing.This year a new President Meir Horvitzand Vice-president André Arceneauxwere voted in.For the first time, two Jim Austin Awardswere given to two deserving members,Jon Kilburn and James Dykes for theircontributions to the Association.Have a great Summer and a lovely Fall.Walt & MelittaPlease note: Jimmy Dykes moved; see new addresson next page and others where his addressappears.Please READthe newsletter carefully– and let yourspouses read it, too.We have had some complaints about not being awareof some information in the Newsletter;either being omitted or misleading.Be sure to send all information: new members, addresschanges, ill members, members who passedaway, to Jimmy Dykes directly.Otherwise, it becomes very confusing for him and theeditors. See page 2Jimmy DykesIn This Issue:• Arizona Reunion Coverage• SNOWBIRDS”please read p. 4• THE COMMUNICATORIS NOW ON-LINE;see p.2 for information/ instructionsSend us more :• Recalling your military service forour Your Story column• .Anniversaries, etc.Editors’ Note:Co-HostsMargaret & Jerry BuzaAttention: Note from Charlie HornsbyDue to lack of enough participation, thetrip to Germany this Fall has been cancelled.We apologize for any errors—particularlynames misspelled, e-mails mixed up, etc.; nomalice intended.Please, check your updated e-mail lists, rostersand newsletter when they are published, andsend any corrections to the Secretary.P.S.Please no FORWARDS, unless it’s Newsletterrelated. Our mailbox runneth over.Thanks

President’s Message… The View From HereTried & Truers; Tried and Truers,When I joined the Association When I joined 2004, the it Association was not for the in 2004, reason it that was I wanted not for to the become reason the that President, I wanted but torather to experience the camaraderie of my fellow soldiers who experienced many of the same things that I had.become the President. It was so that I may realize the camaraderie of my fellowIt was not until I was approached to become the Vice-President, did I ever think of being so honored by my fellowcomrades in arms. soldiers This who has been had experienced especially humbling the same for me, things and I find did. it It difficult was not to express until later, my feelings. when Iwas approached to become the Vice President, did I ever think of being so honoredWe currently have abysmallmycorefellowofcomradesmembers whoin arms.attendTheour Nationalexperiencereunions;has beenless thanespecially2% ofhumblingthe membership.forOur next reunion is going to be in Branson, MO, and it would be extremely gratifying to me to see a lot more ofthe members there.me, and I find it difficult to express my feelings.At our last reunion there We currently were only have two members a small core of the of Officers members Corps who attending, our MG Albert National Crawford Reunions; and myself.The organization than was 2% not of established the membership. to a non-commissioned Our next reunion officers is going Group; to be it in is for Branson, ALL former MO, mem-and itlesswould bers of be the extremely 97th Signal gratifying Battalion. to Let’s me see to see a really a lot good more turnout of the at membership he Branson Reunion. attending. At our last reunionI know, were I have only two some members pretty big of shoes the to Officers fill. Bob Corps Sentell MG was Alfred and is Crawford one of the and finest myself. people The I know, organization and I will dowas my best not established to be worthy to of the be position. a Noncommissioned Officers group. It is for All former members of the 97thSignal Battalion. Let’s see a really good turnout in Branson.T&TIMeirknow,HorvitzI have some pretty big shoes to fill. Bob Sentell was and is one of the finest people I know,and I will do my best to be worthy of the position.T & T Meir HorvitzAdministrative Notices/NewsAttentionPlease, send any administrativenews items pertaining to memberships,change of addresses (incl.e-mail), illnesses, deathsnotices...only to :Secretary/Treasurer:James A. Dykes1167 Oak Knoll Court,Folsom, CA 95630Tel.: 916-984-4634E-mail:97sigbnsectrea@pacbell.netThe Communicator is now ONLINEFrom: Jon KilburnAs some of you know, I have set up all editions of The Communicatoronline since 2005 in a secure area of the 97th Signal BattalionAssociation website www.triedandtrue.org/communicator/We have converted those issues to a PDF format, so they can beeasily viewed, printed and/or saved with Adobe’s Acrobat Reader.These issues and any following issues will have color pictures andgraphics, where available. There is a link on the page for downloadingthe latest version of Adobe’s Acrobat Reader, if you don’t alreadyhave it loaded on your computer.You may forward this message to all Association members, Associatesand their families.The access is Username & Password protected to keep the informationfrom getting into the hands of spammers. As added security,there is a link to it online… you have to go directly to the link belowand use the Username& Password in lower case, exactly as shownbelow; so either bookmark the page, or better yet, keep a copy of themessage for reference:http://www.triedandtrue.org/communicator/New ID: comunic8trNew Password:pswdp7th4uJon Kilburn,Webmaster e-mail: webmaster@triedandtrue.orgor: jon@kilburn.orgPage 2The Communicator

New MembersPerry Gene Keith1286 W 4th St., Apt. C-3Tahlequah, OK 74464Tel.: 9180822-3340/918-453-3991;Radio CO. 58-62David F. Leggett22311 SavonaLaguna Hills, CA 92653Tel.: 949-716-4609; C CO. 60-63Alvin J. & Betty K. Estilette122 Fiord Dr.North Augusta, SC 29841Tel.: 8030613-1500; C.CO. 61-64 NCOIC 7th ArmyCom. Center Classified Relay, Terminal SectionRobert W. & Judy AmundsonTrimble St., Eau Claire, WI 54701Tel.: 715-832-3204; WOC & C CO’s 59-61A great big WELCOMEWe hope to see youat the next Reunion.Looking For a Few Good Men!!!Be a Volunteer—Make a Difference!We need comrades to step forward and considervolunteering for different tasks.Host a reunion! Lend a helping hand—or twoand various other tasks.The Association depends on the participation of themembers to keep it a viable organization.Where in the World…Finding 97th Army BuddiesEugene Darmstedter is the Association MembershipChairman. He asks that each of us to reach back in ourmemory bank and come up with some names from thosedays when we were in Germany. It’s important to find moreof our younger guys who served from 1965 and later. Wehave to use any type of search available to us. You maysend names to Eugene via:E-mail: marygene@roadrunner.comUS Mail: Eugene Darmstedter4 Sunrise DriveBlasdell, NY 14219Tel: (716) 822-2380Locator TeamAnyone interested in becoming a LocatorTeam member, please contact Gene Darmstedter.He will appreciate any help he can get.Haroland (Pat) Patterson is the newest Member ofthe Locator Team.Mick Schroeder is another unsung hero who has tirelesslyhelped Gene compiling rosters.Please use the form below with additional information. Members are requested to supply as much information as possible.A last known address, city or state will help. No nicknames, please.LAST NAME, MI. FIRST NAME ADDRESS DOB ASNIssue 2, June 2009 Page 3

Membership News & ServicesAll Members: Entries for the Membership ROSTER:New e-mail addresses and address changes/ corrections are published as they become available. Makecorrections/changes in your member roster.Add new member addresses to your roster as they are published in the newsletter.Note: Sometimes these additions or changes are received after the cut-off date; they will be published in thesubsequent newsletter.When you change your address, telephone # (indicate if unlisted/unpublished), your e-mail or any pertinentitem, please inform the Secretary/Treasurer of these changes. We try very hard to keep theActive Roster up to date at all times.Also, please instruct a family member or friend to inform the Association when you pass on toyour last retreat.Jimmy Dykes, Keeper of the Roster;e-mail 97th business only: 97sigbnsectrea@pacbell.netWhere is my Newsletter?We hear quite often from members who have not received their Newsletter.Reasons:• I did not pay my dues!Please, remember to keep your membership up to date!!! Dues to be paid January of each year.This guarantees your receipt of the Newsletter.• Most of the time it is from our “Snowbirds” who neglect to give notice of having two addresses.ATTENTION “SNOWBIRDS”All 97th Members heading south or other directions for the winter are reminded to advise us of ANY address change; ASAP,even if it is only a TEMPORARY address.Any changes are to be sent to James Dykes in enough time for mailing.Note: Because the 97th Newsletter is sent as standard, non-profit bulk mail, THE POST OFFICE DOES NOT FORWARD ITTO YOUR NEW ADDRESS—even if you notify them of the change.We don’t want ANYONE to miss all the great things that are happening in the Association!Use below form—print or type your address as it appears on YOUR mailing label and send it to:SECRETARY/TREASURER : James A. Dykes, 1167 Oak Knoll Court, CA 95630; Tel.: 916-984-4634NAME:OLD ADDRESSNEW ADRESSSTREETCITYSTATE/ZIPDATE: FROMTOREMARKS:CUT OUT FORM AND SEND TO THE SECRETARY!Issue 2, June 2009 Page 4

REQUEST for MEMBERSHIPPAYMENT/RENEWAL of DUESAs required by the 97th SIGNAL BATTALION ASSOCIATION By-Laws,I hereby request that I be admitted as an active Member in the 97th Signal Battalion Association.Dues are ten dollars ($10) per year, payable 1 January of the dues year. To participate in the decision-makingprocesses of the Association, Members must be current in their dues.MEMBER’S NAME_____________________________________________________________________SPOUSE’S NAME______________________________________________________________________STREET ADDRESS_____________________________________________________________________CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE_________________________________________________________________TELEPHONE NO._______________________________________________________________________E-MAIL ADDRESS______________________________________________________________________97TH SERVICE: FROM__________TO_________ COMPANY/PLATOON________________________My Dues are enclosed for the years:2009_______2010_______2011_______2012_______2013_______The Association also offers a LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP of $125.00_______Lifetime dues may be paid in five (5) consecutive monthly payments of $25.00 each.LIFETIME dues payments: 1.______2.______3.______4._____5._____Please make checks payable to: 97th Signal Battalion AssociationMail payment with completed form to the Association Secretary:James Dykes, 1167 Oak Knoll Court, Folsom, CA 95630ImportantDon’t forget torenew your membership!To receive the ROSTER andCOMMUNICATOR you have to beup to date with your dues.Also, please check e-mail and otheraddresses; it’s vital we get theCORRECT information.ADDRESS CHANGECut along dotted lineNAME:OLD ADDRESS:NEW ADDRESS:EFFECTIVE DATE: TEL.# E-MAIL ADDRESS:OTHER INFORMATION:Page 5

ill members…These members are ill,and would appreciate cards,phone calls, etc. We hope,many are on the way to recovery,and/or are well again!!!Patsy & Ray MelendezDexter GillisBill CarrGeorge TellmannMary-Lou CowlesBill PinchbackLarry LamprechtBetty DavisRequest :...keep in touchWe know that the families of theill members are often overwhelmedwith caring for theirspouse or a friend. We think themembership would like to knowhow they are doing, and we wouldlike to publish an update everynow and then in the newsletter.TapsMajor Armen Arajian, June 2004George P. Demes, Sept. 2008Ltc. Ret. James J. Jolly, July 2008Richard V. Daly, Sept. 2008Robert E. Rimsa, June 3, 2009RememberingourComrades whohave taken theirLast RetreatIf a member hears of anotherill member, please notifyJimmy Dykes to contactAndy Whitton, so that he maysend get well wishes on behalfof the Association.Let’s all get/stay well andkeep in touch!!!We also would like to remember ourmembers’ spouses who passed away ;Please notify J. Dykes.A very Special CelebrationEmerick MillerCelebrated his 90th Birthdayon March 29th, 2009 with a largecontingent of well wishers—unofficial count about 70‐80 people.His daughters Avery and Judie organizedthe party. He might beone of the oldest member sof the Association.Many of the 97th members mighthave been directed by Sergeant Millerduring their time in Böblingen.Congratulations, and many moregreat years with family and friends.Issue 2, June 2009 Page 6

REUNIONSWe have gained many newmembers in the past few years,and the reunions will be growingsteadily; we need more helpinghands.Please consider being a HOSTfor a reunion in the years ahead.It’s never too early!If two or three members gettogether to hold a reunion, itwould be so much easier for everyone.The more the merrier; it’sless of a burden just for one host,and can be lots of fun, too.By helping with some of the tasks—like serving on the reunion committee—memberswill feel moreinvolved in the future of the Association!See below forinformation/guidelines.Mark Your Calendars!The Next National Reunionwill be in Branson, MOMay 2-8, 2010More information in theOctober and FebruaryNewsletters.Anyone interested in hostinga Reunion for 2011 or 2012?Please bring your proposals tothe 2010 Reunion.The Association has establisheda “BENEVOLENCE FUND”.This fund is used for any of our memberswho are unable to attend ourreunions because of financial considerations.Should any of our comrades wish toattend the reunions, please contactour Benevolence Fund Coordinators:Gilbert L. MacDonald (El Paso, TX) orRobert A. Sentell (St. Helen, MI). Anyinformation regarding this plan istreated as “Confidential”, and notmade available to the general membership.If any member is aware of anothermember being in need of such assistance,please notify one of the FundCoordinators.If a member who needs such service,can arrive in the reunion city, we willassist with the lodging and banquet.The Motto is: “ The Spirit of the 97this Alive and Well”.Dave Harris and Bob Sentell developed a package of detailed guidelines and forms to be sent toConvention Centers/Hotels stating the requirements, etc. for our reunions. This is a very valuable tool for anyonewho considers hosting a National/Mini Reunion; it minimizes the stress of dealing with various offices and people.Please contact Bob Sentell (co-ordinator for reunions) for this material.What’s Your Name?Arrangements have been made to procure permanent nametags for members, spouses and guests. The tags have blacklettering on a yellow background with the 97th Crest on theupper left, and crossed signal flags on the upper right.ACTIVE MEMBERJohn A. DoeSPOUSE/GUESTJane A. DoeMembers wishing to purchase Name Tags may do so by filling out order form below and sending it toGeorge Case - see Supply Depot page .MEMBER’S NAMECOMPANY/YRS. SERVED IN THE 97THSPOUSE’S/GUEST’S/FRIEND’S NAME“TRIED AND TRUE” - unless otherwise requested… :# of TAGS: X $10.00 $Add $2.00 up totwo tags f. S&H$ENCLOSED $Issue 2, June 2009 Page 7

97TH SIGNAL BNASSOCIATION21ST NATIONALREUNIONMAY,3—9 2009MESA, ARIZONAPassing the Gavel: Bob Sentell congratulatesnew President Meir HorvitzBob Sentell presents Jim Austin Award toJimmy DykesMeir Horvitz acceptsnew Leadership positionCONAndré Arceneauxnew Vice-presidentOfficial Presentationsof OfficersAward recipientsJimmy acknowledges AwardGRATULATNew Board of directorsMax Knouse, Leo GoertzenIntrepidtrooper BobSentell is theonly Memberwith perfectReunionattendanceVictor BrownJerry DysonFourNew MemberAttendeesJim Austin AwardeeJon Kilburn (who wasunable to attend)IONJerry BuzaHenry GonzalezPage 8The Communicator

97th GentlemenFront L-R: Walt Fort, André Arceneaux, Max Knouse, Roque Torres, Bil Facemire,Leo Goertzen, Gene Darmstedter2nd Row L-R: Jimmy Dykes, Gary Craig, Ray Brandoli, Jerry Buza, Loren Keefer, Meir Horvitz, Floyd Malzahn,Andy Whitton, Henry GonzalezTop Row L-R: Don Schneider, Jerry Dyson, George Case, Bob Sentell, Johnnie Albritton, Victor Brown, HarveySpencer, Hartwell Lawrence, Bill Riggle, Steve Fenner, Emerick MillerCooling off at the pool sideOur Rosie is as much a good trooperas the fellas; she has graced the PCroom for many years,always cheerfuland helpful. Thanks!!!How else can you make a quickbuck—just take it off the wall.This Restaurant’s walls were coveredin real dollar bills. Veryunique.Ersilia Brandoli makes beautiful afghans, and graciously contributedone to the raffle, won by Shirley Riggle.Issue 2, June 2009 Page 9

Fran& Max Knouse Jane & Johnnie Albritton Lottie & Hartwell LawrenceCharlene & Gary CraigBette & Albert CrawfordDee Radke & Rosie Roberts2009Reunion PhotoGalleryMeir HorvitzAvery HarrisJimmy DykesLouis & Emerick MillerHarvey SpencerPage 10The Communicator

Pat & Bill FacemireIda & Roque TorresShirley & Bill RigglesErsilia & Ray BrandoliMelitta & Walt FortEdie & George CaseMore Gallery Photos 2009Henry GonzalezJan BrownVictor BrownJerry DysonIssue 2, June 2009 Page 11

Jan Brown & Gene DarmstedterJerry Dyson & Cousin SherriMartha & Steve FennerJean & André ArceneauxLinda & Bob SentellMarge & Don SchneiderStill......MorePhotosBob & Linda Sentell’s & familyMaureen & Andy WhittonMargaret & Jerry BuzaMavis & Leo GoertzenPage 12The Communicator

The “Dolly” anchoredAn incredible sight“Hello” down thereA view through the Dolly”s LifebuoyTour toCanyon LakeTortilla FlatAn enjoyable boatrideJan stuck in the CageSomebody else got cagedThe “Girls” showed their stuffJail time doesn’t seem so badMavis & Leo pray for the lost sheepIssue 2, June 2009 Page 13

DiningFive happy fellows seeing each other again 50years laterAndré and Jan really got itSpecialThanks toGary Craig &Victor Brownfor sharingsome of theirphotos forthese pagesDancingTalkingPage 14The Communicator

How big is this cactus?Outlook over the Grand CanyonThis one is bigger21ST REUNION, MAY 2009Attendees:Albritton, Johnnie & JaneArceneaux, André & JeanBrandoli, Raymond & ErsiliaBrown, JanBrown, VictorBuza, Jerome & MargaretCase, George & EdithCraig, Gary & CharleneCrawford, Albert & BetteDarmstedter, EugeneDykes, JamesDyson, JerryFacemire, William & PatriciaFenner, Stephen & MarthaFort, Walt & MelittaGoertzen, Leo & MavisGonzalez, HenryHorvitz, MeirKnouse, Max & FranKurlovech, Richard & Marie (departed earlydue to illness)Lawrence, Hartwell & LottieMalzahn, FloydMiller, Emerick & Luise & Avery HarrisRadke, Delores & Rosie RobertsRiggle, William & ShirleySentell, Robert & LindaSchneider, Donald & MargaretSpencer, HarveyTorres, Roque & IdaWhitton, Andrew & MaureenOne Member who could not attend:A Tried & True Friend Robert E. Rimsa , HQ CO Photo Platoon1957-59 passed away June 3, 2009, and put to Rest at the FloridaNational Cemetery at Bushnell, FL.Bob and I first met at the NY City Port Authority in October1956, where we were both catching a bus to Fort Monmouthfor our Signal Corp assignments. We both attended PhotographySchool and after graduation we were assigned to the97th in Germany.For the next 2½ years we were roommates and best offriends, taking vacations and enjoying Böblingen sites. Whenwe both came home in July 1959, we continued to keep intouch with occasional visits to Canada—Bob lived in Michiganand I in New York State. For several years we both losttouch of each other, but through the 97th Association wewere reunited. A number of circumstances prevented Bobfrom attending any of the reunions.But in May 2008 Bob and his lovely wife Cathryne stayedwith us for three days, and we had a wonderful “mini”reunion.He was a special friend and I willalways have him in my heart.T &T Walt FortMay 20081958Page 15The Communicator

Your Story...We really would like to publish Your Story; Please consider it!We have had a few contributions in the Newsletter—fromsome of our members about their military service—especially those who have been in Germany during WWII.It is so important to hear about members’ experiences whichshaped their lives. Most have a great reservoir of stories thatwould be interesting to the group.We have published several of those accounts so far, and hope,it will be a regular feature with many willing subjects. We inviteany comments/suggestions.If possible, we would like to do mostly oral interviews (at thereunions would be a good opportunity), but have amail-in form for written responses because some members arenot able to attend the reunions.On the right is the format for the interviews, and serves as aguideline for members to think about when they are being interviewed(It was formerly called Story Time).Why did you join, and how old were you?What was your occupation at the time?Where did you have your basic training, and other additionaltraining?What and where was/were your assignments)?Why were you in the 97th Sig Bn?What was your experience in Europe and/or other parts ofthe world?When, where, how long?Where were you at the end of the war? (if you are of thatgeneration)When did you come home?What did you do after you returned home?Looking back, what impact did this experience have on yourfuture?Any additional information is welcome. We also would likepictures in uniform and a recent photograph (originalprints if possible for better reproduction).The Many-faceted Story of Jon KilburnI was born on August 19, 1942 and raised in the Detroitarea. Due to that and the fact that my dad worked inthe auto factories, and they were all working on the WarEffort, my dad never had to go in to the service; although2 of his brothers and 2 of my mom’s brothers served.When I was a teenager, I ran away from home, and livedin Florida, Tennessee, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana and Nebraska.At the age of seventeen, when I was living in the small farmingcommunity of Fairmount, Nebraska, I went into the NationalGuard. When I got out after my 6 months of Active Duty — andtraining as a clerk -- I couldn’t find any work. So, after a fewmonths, I enlisted in the regular Army for 3 years. After a fewweeks at Fort Knox, I was sent to Fort Campbell. I believe that Iwas there for about a year when I got orders for Korea in 1961.My first assignment was working in the Logistical Command, SpecialServices Office in Taegu. But after about 6 months of harassmentby a 2nd Lt. in my office, I volunteered for the 1st Cav Division,expecting to be working in an office somewhere… well, surprise,surprise… I wound up as an infantryman in B Troop, 1stRecon Squadron, 9th Cav Regiment, pulling DMZ Police Duty justabove Freedom Bridge. Shortly after getting to my unit, I waschanged to a scout. I caught part of the Berlin Crisis extension.After 13 months, I caught a Troop ship home. On the way homethe Cuban Crisis happened, and we changed course in a slightlysoutherly direction. Since there were about 1200 of us that were incombat positions, the rumor spread quickly that we were headedfor Cuba. The rumor made the rounds so quickly, that the Captainof the ship made an announcement that this was just a normal“Mid-Pacific” course adjustment.After leave, I went to Fort Banks, MA, from which I was assignedto 3/5th Missile Battalion in Quincy, MA. I spent my last 9 monthsas a driver… what a great place to be in 62-63.I got out of the service in August 1963 and went back hometo Detroit. As it always seemed to happen when I was lookingfor a job, there was nothing decent to be found. So I dida little bit of everything. After President Kennedy was shot, Istarted thinking about going back in the Army, and did so inJanuary of 1964.I was 6 months at Fort Knox, when I was ordered to Okinawa,where I was in the Command Headquarters Company.After a few months of special duty typing and correctinga command regulation, I went to work in the HeadquartersCompany, where I became a Supply Clerk and the Unit Armorer.When I left Okinawa, I had orders for the 97th and became theHq’s Company Supply Sergeant. After about one wonderful yearas the Supply Sgt., serving with people I really liked, I made ahorrible mistake and interviewed for an E-6 position at SeventhArmy Communications Command (7ACC). I enjoyed working forLt.C. Levy and Msg. Zipp. Until we got a 2nd Lt. who thought heowned me. So… I requested and got a transfer to 26th Sig. Bn,where I stayed until my discharge.After discharge, I wound up working Flying Tigers Line at DetroitAirport for about one and a half years. Then I migrated to Texasfor a few months, and from there to Los Angeles. There I wentback to work with trucking companies and Air Freight Forwardersfor about 15 years.Then everything fell apart, and I lived on the streets for a fewyears, helping a friend to repo cars for a year, before movingback to Detroit.Again, back to working on truck docks until two winters and arthritistook their toll. I quit, and went to the local Community Collegefor computer classes, tutoring and working part-time in theComputer Lab at school.Just before Desert storm came, I got called in for an interview atthe US Army Tank Automotive Command as a temp, but woundup in an internship program. I retired after about 13 years there.Page 16The Communicator

Can anyone find any of the men above for the 97th Sig. Bn Association ?Who are these men?Page 17Joe Rein Jr., who’s Dad, JoeRein, commanded RadioCo. from 1952-54, is seekingthe names of the officerssurrounding him inthe photo on the left.Top left is Art Emerson,and bottom right is HerbStanford. If you can ID anyof the other men, pleaseget in touch with:Joe Rein, Jr.8717 Genito West BlvdMoseley, VA 23120Gate to the Historic City of Rothenburg, Germany whichfell to the 12th Infantry April 16, 1945. Without a shotbeing fired, First Battalion negotiated surrender with theGerman Commander in a successful effort to preservepriceless historic treasures.Submitted by Merle DaviesThe Communicator

97th LadiesThe 97th Ladies lunches at the reunions are reallya great time to gather and just have a lovely time.Anyone willing to organizethe next one in 2009 or 2010?As the co‐editor, I would like to appeal to our 97thLadies to give a helping hand or two, i.e. being the“Welcome Committee” for new member spouses,reunion registrations, “Keep‐in‐touch” with ailingmembers, etc.Thank youWe could plan a 97th Ladies Day at the reunionswith volunteers who live in the area, and can workwith the Reunion host to plan and host an“Adventure”.But it can only succeed if ladies volunteer to behostesses. Let co-editor Melitta know well ahead oftime, so it can be published in the Communicator.Having something in common like this creates abond of friendship. It also would be a nice way towelcome “new member“ spouses to the Association.Thank youJan Brownfor the generous contribution of“97th” vintage WineJean & André Arceneaux50th Wedding AnniversaryJack & Sue Grose50th Wedding AnniversaryRay and Ersilia Brandoli56th Wedding AnniversaryIssue 2, June 2009 Page 18

Roland Martin’s Computer TipsRecuva—Utility to Restore Files Deleted Accidentallyhttp://filehipp0.com/download_recuva/Recuva (pronounced “recover”) is a freeware Windows utility to restore filesthat have been accidentally deleted from your computer. This includes filesemptied from the Recycle bin as well as images and other files that havebeen deleted by user error from digital camera memory cards or MP3 players.It will even bring back files that have been deleted from your iPod, or by bugs,crashes and viruses!Simple to use interface - just click ‘Scan’ and choose the files you want torecover.Easy to use filter for results based on file name/type; Simple Windows likeinterface with List and Tree view; Can be run from a USB thumb drive;Restores all types of files, office documents, images, video, music, e-mail,anything.Supports FAT12, FAT16, FAT32, NTFS, NTFS5, NTFS + EFS file systems.Restores files from removable media (SmartMedia, Secure Digital,MemeoryStick, Digitalcameras, Floppy disks, Jaz Disks, Sony Memory Sticks,Compact Flash Cards, Smart Media cards, Secure Digital Cards, etc.)Restores files from external ZIP drives, Firewire and USB Hard drives.It’s fast, tiny and takes seconds to run!(Here is one of Roland’s “howevers”) It found over 56,000 deleted files- of alltypes– on my main hard drive, but found NONE on my camera memory card;even when using the deep scan feature). PS: I ran it again and picked up 48deleted photos.Saving a scanned file as JPG versus PDFSeveral scanning programs and even Irfanview allows a scanned program tobe saved as a PDF file. Is there a difference?Roland uses Irfanview (http://www.irfanview.com) to scan and view/save JPGfiles. It’s free and a popular favorite.Although Irfanview has a Save As option of PDF, you need to download anadd-on, which is easy. Just download and run the single file from here:http//www.software.com/irfanview-plugin. This one file will also allow Irfanviewto view movies and many other type of files.Scanning a page of text that had one graphic and saving it as a JPG file andalso as a PDF file these resulted in these file sizes:JPG 309 KBPDF 210 KBThe PDF file had better quality when pages of text were viewed full screen.In fairness to the JPG quality, it will vary depending on the amount of zooming.Earlier Medical Information researchedTelephone numbers and websites you need toknow:1. For information relating to TFL: Telephone: 1-866-773-0404 (TDD: 1-866-773-0405)Web site: www.tricare4u.com This information alsoappears on the Explanation of Benefits form sent byTricare.2. 2. For information relating to Tricare Management Facility(TMA) for any questions concerning military health care:Web site: www.tricare.osd.mil3. For prescription drug questions:Telephone: 1-866-363-8779 DD: 1-877-540-6261)Web site: www.express-scripts.com/tricareMailing address: Express scripts, PO Box 60903, Phoenix,AZ 85082-0903More detailed information has been published in earlier editionsof the Communicator.Anyone who needs more detailed info can get it at either the websites, from their old Communicator copies, or even from me.P.S.: I would be remiss if there was not a note added here indeep appreciation for all the work many of did during our campaignto get the Tricare for Life Medicare Supplement enacted.That was truly a great accomplishment.Thank you all very much.T&T RolandMen’s BookshelfEditor Walt has enjoyed readingThe Teammates by David Halberstam;It’s a portrait of a friendship betweenBoston Red Sox players Ted Williams,Bobby Doerr, Dom DiMaggio andJohnny Pesky that lasted over 60 yearsWhat are you reading ???T&TRolandGerman Phrase of the Month:Gefährlich ist ein dummer Freund,besser schon ein weiser Feind.A stupid friend is dangerous,better to have a wiser enemy.Jean de la FontaineBill Sevier and Bob Sentell visited with oldfriend Jack Grose recently, and also celebratedJack & Sue’s 50 Wedding Anniversary .See picture p.18Page 19

OFFICERS, SECRETARY/TREASURER and DIRECTORSAs of June 1, 2009PresidentMeir I. Horvitz (2010-2011)3414 Glen Ellen DriveFairfield, CA 94534-7957Tel. (707)207-3273Vice-President (2010-2011)André Arceneaux306 State St.Lafayette, LA 70506-4217Tel. (337-233-6345)Secretary/TreasurerJames A. Dykes1167 Oak Knoll CourtFolsom, CA 95630Tel.: (916)984-4634Past PresidentsDonald K. AdamsGilbert L. MacDonaldJohn J. TruffaPaul W. MuussHarvey L. SpencerEdward R. O’MaraEmilio F. BandieroEugene L. DarmstedterCharles R. Hornsby, Jr.Robert A. SentellBOARD of DIRECTORSMax W. Knouse (2010-2012)114 Locust St. SWVienna, VA 22180-5708Tel.: (703) 242-2308Harvey L. Spencer (2007-2010))1875 Crestmont DriveRedding. CA 96002-0114Tel. (530) 221-7949Dexter C. Gillis (2008-2010)6 Cottage StreetMarblehead, MA 01945-3028Tel. (781)632-5942Andrew Whitton (2007-2010)70 Blanchard RoadMarlton, NJ 08053-2943Tel. (856) 983-7587William J. Riggle (2008-2010)4064 Pipeline RoadBlaine, WA 98230-9745Tel. (360) 392-8991Leo Goertzen (2010-2012)1805 E. St.Aurora, NE 68818-2831Tel. (402)694-2932ChaplainsAndrew Whitton70 Blanchard RoadMarlton, NJ 08053Tel. (609) 983-7587Bernard L. Carter2519 Deerfield DrivePetersburg, VA 23805Tel. (804) 861-4918Sales & PromotionsSupply SergeantGeorge A. Case102 S. 18th StreetClear Lake, IA 50428Tel. 641-357-7569RecorderAvery Harris3103 Wildwood Dr.Huntsville, AL 35801Tel. (256)-539-8897 (cell)Reunion & HospitalityCoordinatorRobert A. Sentell9562 W. Pleasant St.St. Helen, MI 48656Tel. (989) 389-3149NewsletterWalt & Melitta Fort1048 Buckingham DriveAllentown, PA 18103Tel. (610) 740-0808BenevolenceGilbert L. MacDonald4704 Roundrock DriveEl Paso, TX 79924Tel. (915) 821-6475Robert A. Sentell9562 W. Pleasant St.St. Helen, MI 48656Tel. (989) 389-3149Historian &Public InformationDirectorOpenPositionIssue 2, June 2009 Page 20

Changes/Additions of Addresses etc. of Active MembersThere are additions/changes /corrections of addresses, telephone numbers and e -mail addresses all thetime. If you have changed any of the above— or if we have made a typographical error— please sendyour corrections to Secretary :James Dykes, 1167 Oak Knoll Court, Folsom, CA 95630;e-mail: 97sigbnsectrea@pacbell.netE-mail Additions/Changes*NEW MEMBERS** LIFETIME MEMBERS *** CHANGEAddress, telephone & e-mail changes & correctionsare printed in each issue.Please check and make entries in your rosters.*David Leggett leggettfloyd@yahoo.com*Alvin Estelette estilette@bellsouth.net*** Norman L’Heureux w1scm@myfairpoint.net***James O’Kelley jim97sig@suddenlink.net*** Frank Sanders rfrank.sanders@gmail.com*** Thomas McMahon mcmahontr@yahoo.com***Kurt O. Beilharz kobeilharz@yahoo.com*** Ray Brandoli ersilia@att.net*Robert W. Amundson ramundson@charter.netWilliam Backner, 16266 Asheboro Ct., fortMeyers, FL 33908-3517Robert Cella, 9 Morgan Dr.,Sewell, NJ 08080Orville D. Clarida, 3540 E. Cherokee St. Apt.#102, Springfield, MO 65809-2802Michael L. McNeilly, 1016 Central Dr.,Coulee Dam, WA 99116-1107Jeff Jourdan, P.O. BOX # 301,Ekalak, MT 59324Ernest Barnhart c/o Juddith Reday (POA)2605 St. Louis Rd., Jefferson City, MO 65101(Ernest’s private Tel.: 573-761-0821)John J. Petrock, 1119 Pick Pocket PlantationDr., Beaufort, SC 29902Page 21The Communicator

97TH Signal Battalion SUPPLY DEPOTITEMS COST PER ITEM QUANTITY TOTAL7th Army Decals 3 for $2.007th Army Shoulder PatchesSignal Corps flag pins (Officer Brass)97th Sig BnUnit Crest$3.50 each$7.00 each$7.00 eachCAPS—Blue “Circle ‘C’ Cowboys $5.00White 97th CAP $9.00Tan CAP – embroidered / extra options—unit/year/state$15.00/ $10.00 additionalRegular T-shirt, orange/grey/steel $20.00Long-sleeve T-shirt, orange/grey $22.00Size/colorSize/colorChambray Button-down, blue/long/short sleeve $35.00 SizeGolf/Polo shirt, black/orange/steel $30.00 Size/colorFleece Vest, zipper/sleeveless, dk. grey $36.00 size“Böblingen” Tote bags $8.00License Plate Frame $7.50Name Tags (see pg. 7 for order form)$10.00 eachMake Checks payable to: 97th SIG BN ASSN.Please: Enclose e-mail or Tel. # for order confirmationMail to: Supply Sergeant.George Case102 S. 18th Street, Clear Lake, IA 50428Tel.: 641-357-7569Cut out order form below - also copy for own recordsCheck next Page & the97th Web pages forPictures of ProductsNote: Many items fit inregular envelopes,unless ordering severalor heavy items.SUBTOTALS & Hon all orders $7.00TOTALItems Ordered Cost Name Tel./e-mail1.2.3.4.5.Page 22The Communicator

Regular T-shirt grey/steel/orange $20.00Long sleeve T-shirt orange/grey $22.00 Golf/Polo shirt orange/steel/black $26.00CAPSWhite Cap $9.00Tan Cap-embroidered $15.00/Options $10.00Blue Cap $5.00Chambray Button-down shirt, bluelong/short sleeved $35.00Fleece Vestsleeveless, dk. grey$42.00SUPPLY DEPOTBöblingen Tote Bag $8.007th Army Shoulder Patch $3.5097th Unit Crest 7.00 each“Tried and True inscriptionSignal Corps Flag Pins $7.00Page 237th Army Decals 3 for $2.00License Plates $ 7.50 eachplus postageThe Communicator

Tried & True