The European Theater of Operations

"We must be ready to dare all for our country. For history does not long entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid. We must acquire proficiency in defense and display stamina in purpose.

We must be willing, individually and as a Nation, to accept whatever sacrifices may be required of us. A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both."

President Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969)
First Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in World War II
34th President of the United States
First Inaugural Address, January 20, 1953

December 11, 1941 – Germany and Italy declare war on the U.S.

August 17, 1942 – The Army Air Force conducts its first raid in Europe.

Maine voters pay tribute to those in the U.S. Air Force who served in the European Theater:

 

I am voting in honor of Edward Ross, who was a nose gunner on a B-24 in the 8^th Air Force during WWII. He received 2 Flying Crosses as well as other honors. Ed is in his 80's and still continues to work on various local committees and is active in the 8^th Air Force Veterans' Association.
Donald D. Soule, York
Served in Korea

My father was a man of very few words – we never had much of a relationship while I was growing up. But as often holds true, "The older I got, the smarter he got." All he ever much said about the Army was something I overheard him say to a neighbor when I enlisted in the Army in 1968 to avoid being drafted. He told the neighbor (unaware that I was within earshot), "I fought in the last war so that my sons would never have to go to war." I was very fortunate. Though in the Army and originally trained for the infantry, I ended up serving – in the peak of the Vietnam era – in the Army's "other `hardship' tour duty location," near the DMZ in the Republic of Korea. I've always felt that if I would have gone to Vietnam, I would never have seen Maine again.
SMSgt Michael P. Gleason, Bangor
Served during Vietnam era;
currently in Maine Air Guard, USAF

Mainers warmly pay tribute to men who served in the Merchant Marines:

I am voting in honor of Daniel Maher and Jack Stadstad, classmates of mine at the USMMA in Kings Point, NY. Each of them was lost on their first trip to sea in 1942. Daniel Maher was on the Liberty Ship S/S Merriwether Lewis when it was torpedoed by a German submarine on March 2, 1943 in the North Atlantic. Jack Stadstad was on the Liberty ship S/S John Drayton when it was torpedoed on April 21, 1943 by an Italian submarine 300 miles southeast of Durban, South Africa.
Thomas C. Howard, Old Orchard Beach
Served in WWII

I am proud of my grandfather, Amos Tracy, who was in the Merchant Marines during WWII. He fought this war for our freedom. His country was his pride.
Sylvia Merry, Old Orchard Beach

I am voting in honor of my grandfather, David V. McCallum, who was in the Merchant Marines. After the war, at age 42, he fell from a telephone pole and became a quadriplegic. He was told he would never have the use of his arms and legs. Through sheer will and constant trying, he regained the use of his arms, but he was never able to walk again.

He had no income and a wife and 3 children to support. But, with the help of some people from Old Orchard Beach he sold sea worms from his house. Later he opened the OOB Tent and Trailer Park and let people camp for donations only.

He hunted, fished, and lived a full life. He even deep sea fished. He would go to the Camp Ellis pier and they would attach straps to his wheel chair and they would hoist him up, out and over the water on to his boat. He was fearless.

He was never limited by his body because of his incredible mind and spirit. He passed away in 1990. His spirit will live forever.
Roxanne V. McCallum-Frenette
Old Orchard Beach

Americans Face Action on the Southern Front: North Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria

November 7, 1942 – U.S. forces land in North Africa, and Operation Torch, the North African campaign, begins.

Sons and daughters pay tribute to fathers:

Our father, Paul A. Rovnak, served in the U.S. Army Air Corps in WWII. He lost an eye during the war in Northern Africa but never once complained.
Mary-Ann Rovnak Morgan, Lisbon Falls

 

I am voting in honor of my father, Charles W. Kauffman, who was a veteran of WWII; he served as an Army sergeant with the 102^nd Infantry Division.
Sandy Bates, Greene

I will vote in honor of my father, James Robert Blanch, who went into the CC's at 17 years old and later shipped out to serve in WWII on Christmas Eve. He was in the Army and is still very active in the local VFW. He takes a great deal of pride in the military part of his life but unfortunately does not share many stories.
Laura Cook, West Enfield

Husbands, WWII veterans themselves, vote in honor of their wives:

 

Emelda B. Erwin, my wife, was an Army nurse during WWII and served in Africa and Italy.
Edgar E. Erwin, Rumford
Served in England, Africa and
Italy during WWII

My wife, Marilynn B. Gage, was an Ensign in the Navy Nurse Corps during my stay in the U.S. Naval Hospital in Boston. (We have now been married for 54 years.)
Wallace M. Gage, Tenants Harbor
Served in Battle of the Atlantic,
Aleutians, and Saipan, USN (Ret.)

I vote in honor of my wife, Kathleen M. Moore, who became a naturalized citizen of the United States but served in the British Army as a radio operator monitoring enemy radio signals. One of the girls in her unit intercepted the change in the German code. (I believe this is indirectly mentioned in The Ultra Secret by F. W. Winterbotham.)
Donald E. Moore, Ellsworth
Served in the Pacific Theater during WWII

My wife, Genevieve Leone Sirois (now deceased), was a WAC in WWII.
Sebastian Fred Sirois, No. Monmouth
Served in WWII and Korean Conflict

I am voting in honor of my wife, Pauline G. Paul, who was a Storekeeper Second Class in the U.S. Navy WAVES.
Peter F. Paul, Saco

 

My wife, Janet S. Vincent (now deceased) was a WAVE PHM 3/c USN who served in the U.S. and Hawaii.
Vernon R. Vincent, North Waterford
Served in WWII and Korea

I pay tribute to my wife, Cpl. Olive F. Parent (now deceased), who was in the U.S. Marines in 1941-42.
Albert E. Parent, Oakland
Served in the U.S. Army, 1955-58

 

I am proud to vote in honor of my wife, Margaret L. Ford, who was a WAVE in the U.S. Navy during WWII and served in communications at USNAS in Jacksonville, Florida.
John F. Ford, Sr., Alfred
Served in North Africa, France,
the Rhineland, and Ardennes

Wives proudly pay tribute to their husbands:

I am voting in honor of my husband, Milton S. Jellison, who served with the 1^st Infantry Division in the U.S. Army and participated in battles and campaigns in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. He was captured by the Germans at the Battle of Kasserine Pass in North Africa, where it is a widely held belief that his actions on that day saved many soldiers from a similar fate, or worse. He was taken prisoner and held at Oflag 64 in Poland from 1943 to 1945. In recognition of his service and bravery, he was awarded the Silver Star, African-Middle Eastern Theater Service medals, and the Bronze Service Arrowhead.
Dorothy P. Jellison, Bangor

 

I will vote in honor of my husband, Lawrence A. Michaud, who is a WWII veteran. He served in both the African and European Theaters and received 4 battle stars. He spoke at an elementary school on Veterans' Day regarding the importance of our flag and our freedoms. Students wrote letters stating they had learned more about our constitution and our flag from his speeches than they did in the classroom.
Maurine S. Michaud, Ashland

Many responses to Vote in Honor of a Veteran reveal admiration for relationships that lasted lifetimes:

Victor Smallidge was my good friend and fellow lobster fisherman. He served in the U.S. Army in WWII. He landed in Africa and fought in Italy…claiming he walked the whole way …a true "foot soldier."

He was my friend for over 40 years. He helped me learn how to fish and was a deer-hunting partner for years. He was known as "Captain Thunder" locally.

Like many men of his generation, after being gone to war for 3 ½ years, he returned home to Winter Harbor and resumed his life of fishing. He spoke little of the battles, but was vocal in relating how the GIs would give their food to the children they met.
Dale F. Torrey, Sr., Winter Harbor
Served in the Army

 

My cousin, Henry Howe, was a sergeant in WWII in the U.S. Army Air Corps in the European Theater. He helped save the Lipizzaner stallions.
Sandy Bates, Greene

I am voting in honor of Pastor Stanley Royal Ashby, Jr., my brother-in-law. He was a graduate of Harvard and could speak 6 to 7 languages fluently. He taught Chinese and Korean in the military. He was a humble but brilliant man of God.
John Franklin Bixby Jr., Buckfield
Served in Vietnam

July 19, 1943 – The Allies bomb Rome, which had previously been spared because of its religious significance.

August 17, 1943 – General Patton and his troops conquer Sicily.

September 1943 – The Allies invade Italy. Italy surrenders, but German forces in the country continue to fight. The U.S. Army lands at Salerno, Italy.

 

I am voting in honor of my brother, Robert L. Leavitt, who was drafted at the end of the war and served in the Infantry in Italy. He died in 1944 and left behind a young wife and baby boy. When he died, I was only 9 years old. We all miss him still.
Dorothy L. Benner, Gardiner

I will proudly pay tribute to my father, William R. Foley, who served in WWII and was stationed in Italy. He worked in a MASH unit. He was a Canadian citizen and became naturalized before shipping out.
Marybeth Foley, Orient

When I vote, I will be paying tribute to my father, Horace (Bud) White, who served in WWII in the 5^th Army. He went through Italy and Africa and was at the foot of the Alps when the war ended.

Even bad times have their funny moments. In Italy he became acquainted with a man from Maine – and they are still good friends despite the distance between their homes. One evening after dark, Dad and Bill were returning to their platoon when the Germans launched an air attack on the area. Not being armed to fight off planes, all they could do was dive for cover under the nearest available source, which happened to be a military truck. They had "procured" some wine to share with their buddies, and, not knowing if they'd ever see daylight again, they opened a bottle and drank some while the attack was on.

When the attack finally ended, they crawled out from under the truck, only to find it was fully loaded with ammunition. One stray bullet would have been the last for them, but Divine intervention saved them that day.
Deedra R. Davis, Bangor

Mainers honor those who fought at Anzio:

Charles Dube, who was born in Caribou, Maine, saved my life. It was February, 1944. The Germans had surrounded the house I was in. When Charles fired his gun, 2 ran from the house.
Gerard E. Chretien, Alfred
Served in WWII, fought at Anzio

I am voting in honor of my husband, Joseph Glenn Grover, who enlisted in the Navy in 1942 and served as a torpedo man on several destroyers, including the USS Bristol and the USS Ludlow. He was involved with the Anzio invasion in 1944 and also with the invasion of Salerno. He was the father of 6 and died in 1973 just before his 52^nd birthday.
Muriel Grover, Passadumkeag

Proud wives vote in tribute to their husbands' valor:

My husband, Staff Sergeant Meryll M. Frost, was a ball turret gunner on a B-24 bomber, 15^th Air Force, 726 Bomber Squadron, 451^st Bomber Group. His B-24 crashed on a mission overseas in February 1944. It caught fire and 2 ½ tons of bombs exploded. Most of the crew was killed instantly, leaving only a few alive. My husband was severely burned and injured and hospitalized for 1½ years in military hospitals. He was listed as 100% disabled and was given a Purple Heart.
Mrs. Pauline D. Frost, Columbia Falls

For the past 55 years my husband, George E. Tudor, has kept in touch with his crew; eight are still living. Most will be attending the 451^st bomb group reunion in September in St. Louis. The missions they went through — and survived — are unbelievable. He has been an A-1 husband and father as he was a pilot. After he was discharged from the Air Force, he flew for 32 years with American Airlines.
Jane Tudor, Bristol

Note: According to General Order #4533, dated 17 November 1944, for "conspicuous gallantry, professional skill and intense devotion to duty," Captain George Tudor was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry.

 

I am married to a wonderful man, Elvert G. Pooler, who wears the Purple Heart with enormous pride. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945, served in France and Germany, and was wounded twice. He received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters.
Barbara B. Pooler, Sanford

Sons and daughters honor their mothers and grandmothers:

 

I want to honor my mom, Naomi M. Watts, who was a wing tip riveter – a "Rosie the Riveter" – during WWII. She helped win the war by providing needed services on the home front.
Laura M. Duplessis, Old Town

 

I am proud of my mother, Jeannette Campbell, who was a clerk in the Women's Army Corps and a gate guard at Andrews Field during WWII. After the war she served as the postmaster in Bingham until her retirement in 1987.
Kevin Campbell, Dresden
Served in USMC, 1972-78

When I vote, I will do so in honor of my grandmother, Andrea Melness, who served in the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps during WWII.
Thomas F. Malone III, Portland
Served in the Gulf War

I am voting in honor of my mother, Captain Helen Williams, who served in England in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps for 3 years. She was one of 4 siblings who served in WWII.
Kendall N. Huggins, Bangor

I honor my grandmother, Susie Buck, who served as a WAC in WWII.
Wilma F. Buck Warman, Belmont

"First Lieutenant Philip S. Wood, Jr., (Air Forces, United States Army) went overseas in January of 1944 and was stationed with the 15^th Air Force in Southern Italy. He was the pilot of a B24 Liberator Bomber that failed to return after a bombing mission over Vienna. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Lt. Wood was reported missing in action on the 17^th of March 1944. The War Department had entertained the hope that he had survived and that information would be revealed dispelling the uncertainty surrounding his absence. No further information has been received."
Beatrice Kelleter, West Gouldsboro
A cousin of Lt. Wood

–the Bar Harbor Times, August 9, 1945

The following Associated Press report of May 7, 2001 from Presque Isle, Maine, brings memories of the war to a downed pilot:

FORMER MAINER GIVEN PLANE PARTS AS
REMINDER OF WW II CRASH

Fifty years ago, George Peterson was shot down near Linz, Austria, during World War II, and became a prisoner of war.

Now the former Maine resident has received a bittersweet artifact from that experience: two metal pieces of the plane he was in when he was shot down.

Peterson, 85, received the parts of the B-24 Liberator from two Austrian men who are compiling a history of the day his and about a dozen other planes were shot down on July 25, 1944.

"It brings back past memories and what we went through," Peterson said. "No one can understand unless they've gone through it."

Peterson grew up in northern Maine and was living in New Sweden when he was drafted. He was 27 years old when he was sent to Italy, where he worked as a flight engineer on the plane. There were 10 members of the Liberator crew who flew together for two years during the war, and until July 25, the plane had only received a few bullet holes during the war.

But on the crew's 44^th mission, they were one of 21 planes attacked as they approached Linz. The crew bailed out of the plane by parachute, and became prisoners of war.

He spent the next nine months in several concentration camps in Austria, Poland and Germany before being rescued by British soldiers.

Hundreds of acts of heroism during WWII are described in the responses honoring veterans. Here is a sampling:

My grandfather, Ken Joy, received the Bronze Star for crawling around and behind a bunch of German soldiers. He threw a hand grenade and wiped them out and saved his pinned-down comrades.
Joy Lynne Colby, Springvale

I will be voting in honor of my shipmate, David Niles Skinner, who served in WWII on the USS Rolfe as a Gunner's Mate 3^rd class. He was lost at sea in the Atlantic in November 1944. He was a most respected sailor, missed by his shipmates. He never had the opportunity to gain his "veteran" status.
Donald W. Pratt, Freeport
Served in U.S. Navy during WWII

I want to pay tribute to my uncle, Jack R. Craig, who was inducted into the Army shortly after his graduation from high school in 1943. He served in combat in WWII, was wounded 3 times and received the Purple Heart. He recently celebrated his 50^th wedding anniversary. He is an unrecognized hero!
Ted L. Igleheart, Old Town
Served in Persian Gulf, Somalia, and Haiti

I am voting in honor of my parents. My father, Myron Prescott (now deceased), was a bombardier on B-52s and earned the Flying Cross and Purple Heart with Silver Star. My mother, Jane Prescott, was born and raised in France and worked with the French underground saving Jews.
James M. Prescott, South Portland
Combat-wounded in Vietnam

My father, William See, served in the 8^th Air Force, 95^th Bomb Group, 336^th Squadron, as a Flight Engineer on a B-17. He was shot down on his 11^th mission. My father walked on a forced march over 600 kilometers across Germany. He has never received his POW medal. He will be 80 years young on December 14, 2000. I am so proud of my father and what he did, not only for me but also for what he did for our great country.
Daniel See, Bucksport

I am voting in honor of my uncle, George Ernest Boisse, who served one tour in the Navy and then joined the Air Force, planning to make his career in the Air Force. He was a radio operator during WWII.

The details of his story may not be exact because we never heard the story firsthand. I've heard this story since I was a child but never from my Uncle George. He never spoke about it. He had never even spoken about it with his wife of over fifty years. He told his mother what happened when she was by his side in the hospital recuperating from his ordeal. My grandmother is the person who shared this story of courage and character with his wife and close family members.

 

One day during a flight his airplane was shot down. One man died on impact and another lost half of his leg, but my uncle was not injured. My uncle pulled the injured man into a life raft. The two men were adrift in the ocean with no food and very little water. My uncle wrapped the injured man's leg with a shirt he had. The gentleman died three days later. Because of aroused sharks in the area, my uncle had no choice but to place the gentleman's body into the water.

On the sixteenth day he saw an airplane fly overhead, but the airplane didn't tip its wing to alert my Uncle George that the airplane had seen him. At that point he prayed for the Good Lord to take him because he thought he would not be rescued. He was severely dehydrated, sunburned, and suffering from heat stroke. The very next day a ship came to rescue him. He was hospitalized for the next few months recuperating. In all, he had spent 17 days adrift in the ocean.

My uncle was heartbroken about having to leave the gentleman's body in the ocean. He and his wife were expecting their first child. When my uncle received his Purple Heart, he gave it to the wife of the gentleman who died so his child would have it to remember his brave father.

I am glad my grandmother shared this story about this touching life experience of a dedicated member of the U.S. Air Force. We are very proud to call such an honorable man our uncle.
Brenda J. Paquette, Biddeford

I met my husband Gustave Delannoy, Jr. while we both served at Anacostia Naval Air Station in Washington, D.C. I served stateside while Gus fought the war. He spent 14 days in a life raft in the North Atlantic in winter months during the first bombing.
Julia Delannoy, North Amity
Served stateside in the Navy in WWII

My dad, Gustave Delannoy Jr., was a "tin can" sailor. He made all the invasions of WWII. He was sunk twice and was decorated for his heroic rescue of a shipmate. Dad died 2 days before his 75^th birthday in 1996 and is buried at Arlington Cemetery.
George C. Delannoy, North Amity
Served in Vietnam

 

When I vote, I will honor my friend Jack Gault, who served in the U.S. Army in WWII and died in Germany. Jack was one of the 97 male graduates (out of 99) in the high school class of 1942 who served in the armed services in WWII.
Keith E. Miller, Bar Harbor
Served in WWII

I am voting in honor of my brother, Second Lt. Lowell F. Simmons, who was an Air Force pilot of a B-17 that dropped bombs on Berlin. His plane was hit by flak that knocked out 3 engines. My brother ordered the other 9 men to jump. They were captured but the war was at an end so they returned home. My brother, however, did not. His chute caught on the tail wing of the plane and he went down with it. For his valor in battle he was awarded the Purple Heart. He was 27 years old and the father of 2 children. Today his body is buried in the family plot in Damariscotta with other loved ones.
Gloria S. Knipe, New Harbor

My grandfather, Kenneth E. Joy, served two terms in Germany during WWII. He was the proud recipient of a Purple Heart as well as many other medals. He was a great man. He is sadly missed.
Carole-Ann Labbe, Shapleigh

My cousin, Walter Meader, was a B-24 gunner, killed in action over Germany. He was the first soldier KIA from the Passamaquoddy Reservation.
Richard J. Socabasin, Sr., Perry
Served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam,
US Army (Ret.)

Thank you for the opportunity to honor my father Ralph E. Berry. He died November 17, 1978. I pulled out the box of his military service memorabilia for the 100^th time and looked at the two awards (the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart Medal) he received April 30, 1945 "for heroic conduct in connection with military operations against an army enemy" on March 31, 1945.

CITATION

"Technician Fourth Grade Ralph E. Berry, 41^st Tank Battalion, 11^th Armored Division, United States Army. For heroic conduct in connection with military operation against an armed enemy. On 31 March 1945, while serving as tank gunner for his unit near Fulda, Germany, Technician Berry's tank was hit by an enemy bazooka round. He was severely burned about the hands and his company commander was mortally wounded. Hoping to get his Company Commander back to the aid station, Technician Berry, discovering that his driver had lost his interphone headset, leaned out of the turret to instruct him, thus exposing himself to heavy enemy sniper fire. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army. Technician Berry entered the military service from Maine."

Iva M. Berry, Rangeley

I am voting in honor of my father, Gerard E. Turgeon, who served in the U.S. Army 3^rd Armored Division Spearhead Infantry in Belgium and France. He was wounded in both of his legs and his back on December 14, 1944 in Germany and nearly lost a leg. He received a Purple Heart. He says he would do it again.
Michael G. Turgeon, Shapleigh
Served in Desert Storm, a 10-year veteran

When I vote, I will pay tribute to my father, Llewellyn Fowler Wortman, who served in the U.S. Army in France from 1943 - 1945. He was drafted even though he had 6 children. There were no support services for dependents during WWII, which made life difficult for those left behind.
Patricia A. Sherman, Olamon

My friend, Forest Crosman (now deceased), was a U.S. Air Force B-17 radioman, who was shot down over Germany. He was a POW for many months and lost 100 pounds in POW camp.
Frank E. DeBiasio, Jr., Topsham
Served in the Pacific with the 3^rd Fleet, 1944-45

My brother, Lionel Crocker, served in the Army and was held prisoner of war in Germany. A man 6' tall, he weighed about 90 pounds when he came home.
James F. Crocker, Exeter

I am voting in honor of my "survival brother" Alvin L. Tidwell. We were both POW's together in Germany – AUS Infantry.
Murray A. Schwartz, Mechanic Falls
Served in WWII

I am proud of my husband, Warren G. McFadden, who served in the Air Force. He was a POW from 1943-45 in Stalag Luft 17B in Germany. He died August 17^th, 1996 on our 50th anniversary. I am happy to honor him...he was a good man.
Arlene R. McFadden, Harpswell

I pay tribute to the service of my father, Wayne St. Germain, who served in Germany. He parachuted behind enemy lines and was hidden in a farmhouse by a German family. He did see combat and was wounded.
Lorelei St. Germain, Mt. Desert

All in my family who served are gone now except me. I served in the U.S. Army in Germany and southern France from September 1944 to October 1946. When I vote, I will wear my button to honor "all who served with me."
Dominic J. D'Andrea, Lisbon
Served in WWII

I am voting in honor of S/Sgt. Charles T. Bratton. He was the tail gunner of our bomber crew and was killed in aerial combat with the enemy in late 1944. May God reward him for all the good things he has done.
Romeo A. Huppe, Lewiston
Served in aerial combat missions during WWII

 

My grandfather, Bernal Clark, served with the 258^th Engineer Battalion in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was someone who was very wise and honorable. I loved him very much and learned a lot of things from him.
Denise M. Hitchcock, Smyrna Mills

Thomas Andrews served in the Army in Germany. I have talked with him personally about searching for landmines with his bayonet. He is a silent type who did his duty to the utmost.
Dennis E. Perry, Sorrento

Sorties were operational flights by a single military aircraft.

I will be voting for the first time at college and will be proud to vote in honor of my grandfather, Albert Grivois, who was in the USAF in WWII and flew in over 80 sorties.
Julie York, Durham, NH

I will be proud to wear the name of SMSgt. Harry Stiefel, USAF, when I vote on Election Day. I met him in 1961 at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers, Europe, in Paris, France, where we were stationed with a small Strategic Air Command (SAC) unit. Over the next four years our two New England families became very friendly — we planned and went on trips together, we had baked bean and spaghetti suppers together on Saturday nights, we played cards together, we bowled together.

Harry was a true gentleman, a kind man thoughtful and caring; he was very devoted to his wife and children, to his religion, and to his country.

His devotion to duty and country was recognized officially by both the United States government and the government of France. During WWII Harry was a waist gunner on a B-26 Marauder and flew 26 missions over Germany. On one mission the bombardier radioed the pilot that one of the bombs had failed to deploy and was hung up in the well. Harry volunteered to go into the well, bomb doors wide open, and disengaged the stuck bomb with his outstretched foot. His tireless and courageous efforts to unseat the bomb were successful and the airplane and crew were able to land safely. In addition to his U.S. medals, Harry received the French Croix de Guerre (awarded for bravery in action.)
Kenneth B. McGrath, Eddington

I will be voting in honor of my four brothers, Thomas, Alymer, Harry and John Evans. All of them served in different units in the European Theater, and two of them were wounded.
Edith M. Wietzke, Hartland

 

When I vote, I will be paying tribute to Edward C. Dahlgren, 2^nd Lt., Company E, 142^nd Infantry, 36^th Infantry Division. He currently lives in Mars Hill.
Robert M. Henderson, Caribou
Served in Sicily, Italy, and France

I will be voting in honor of Edward C. Dahlgren, Medal of Honor recipient.
Joseph C. Rump, Bucksport
Served in Korea and Vietnam,
M. Sgt.USAF, (Ret.)

The Citation presented to Sergeant Edward C. Dahlgren on September 10, 1945, for his acts of heroism at Oberhoffen, France on February 11, 1945 reads as follows:

CITATION

"He led the Third Platoon to the rescue of a similar unit which had been surrounded in an enemy attack at Oberhoffen, France. As he advanced along a street, he observed several Germans crossing a field about 100 yards away. Running into a barn, he took up a position in a window and swept the hostile troops with submachine gun fire, killing six, wounding others and completely disorganizing the group. His platoon then moved forward through intermittent sniper fire and made contact with the besieged Americans. When the two platoons had been reorganized, Sergeant Dahlgren continued to advance along the street until he drew fire from an enemy-held house. In the face of machine-pistol and rifle fire, he ran toward the building, hurled a grenade through the door, and blasted his way inside with his gun. This attack so rattled the Germans that all eight men who held the strongpoint immediately surrendered. As Sergeant Dahlgren started toward the next house, hostile machine-gun fire drove him to cover. He secured rifle grenades, stepped to an exposed position, and calmly launched his missiles from a difficult angle until he had destroyed the machine gun and killed its two operators. He moved to the rear of the house and suddenly came under the fire of a machine gun emplaced in a barn. Throwing a grenade into the structure, he rushed the position, firing his weapon as he ran; within, he overwhelmed five Germans. After reorganizing his unit, he advanced to clear hostile riflemen from the building where he had destroyed the machine gun. He entered the house by a window and trapped the Germans in the cellar, where he tossed grenades into their midst, wounding several and forcing ten more to surrender. While reconnoitering another street with a comrade, he heard German voices in a house. An attack with rifle grenades drove the hostile troops to the cellar. Sergeant Dahlgren entered the building, kicked open the cellar door, and firing several bursts down the stairway, called for the trapped enemy to surrender. Sixteen soldiers filed out with their hands in the air. The bold leadership and magnificent courage displayed by Sergeant Dahlgren in his heroic attacks were in a large measure responsible for repulsing an enemy counterattack and saving an American platoon from great danger."

Maine Medal of Honor Recipients from World War II

In addition to Edward C. Dahlgren, four other Maine veterans received the distinguished Medal of Honor and one serviceman, who entered service in Massachusetts, is a current Maine resident.

Sergeant William C. Fournier, of Winterport, served in the U.S. Army, Company M, 35^th Infantry, 25^th Infantry Division at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands on June 5, 1943, as a "leader of a machinegun section charged with the protection of other battalion units. His group was attacked by a superior number of Japanese, his gunner killed, his assistant gunner wounded, an adjoining gun crew put out of action...Sergeant Fournier rushed forward to the idle gun and, with the aid of another soldier who joined him, held up the machinegun by the tripod to increase his field of action. They opened fire and inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy. While so engaged both these gallant soldiers were killed, but their sturdy defensive action was a decisive factor in the following success of the attacking battalion."

Commander Herbert E. Schonland, of Portland, served in the U.S. Navy on the USS San Francisco. He received the Medal of Honor "for extreme heroism and courage above and beyond the call of duty as damage control officer in action against greatly superior enemy forces in the battle of Savo Island, 12 November 1942...In a violent night engagement all of his superior officers were killed or wounded. . .Upon being informed that he was commanding officer, ... he resumed the vitally important work maintaining the stability of the ship. In water waist deep, he carried on his efforts in darkness illuminated only by hand lanterns until water in flooded compartments had been drained or pumped off and watertight integrity had again been restored...His great personal valor and gallant devotion to duty at great peril to his own life were instrumental in bringing his ship back to port under her own power, saved to fight again in the service of her country."

First Lieutenant Robert T. Waugh, who entered the service in Augusta, served in the U.S. Army, 339^th Infantry, 85^th Infantry Division. He received the Medal of Honor "for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy." Near Tremensucli, Italy, on May 11, 1944, 1^st Lt. Waugh directed his men "to deliver fire on six bunkers" guarding a hill in a heavily mined area. 1^st Lt. Waugh advanced alone against them, reached the first bunker, threw three phosphorus grenades into it and as the defenders emerged, killed them with a burst from his tommy gun. He repeated this process on the five remaining bunkers, killing or capturing the occupants...The fearless actions of 1^st Lt. Waugh broke the Gustav Line at that point, neutralizing six bunkers and two pillboxes and he was personally responsible for the deaths of 30 of the enemy and the capture of 25 others. He was later killed in action in Itri, Italy, while leading his platoon in an attack."

Major Jay Zeamer, Jr., who entered the military in Machias, served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He received the Medal of Honor for service in the Solomon Islands on June 16, 1943. Major Zeamer (then Captain) volunteered as a pilot of a bomber on an important photographic mapping mission covering the formidably defended area in the vicinity of Buka, Solomon Islands. While photographing the Buka airdrome, his crew observed about 20 enemy fighters on the field, many of them taking off...Major Zeamer proceeded with the mapping run, even after the enemy attack began. In the ensuing engagement Major Zeamer sustained gunshot wounds in both arms and legs, one leg being broken. Despite his injuries, he maneuvered the damaged plane so skillfully that his gunners were able to fight off the enemy during a running fight which lasted 40 minutes. The crew destroyed at least five hostile planes, of which Major Zeamer shot down one. Although weak from loss of blood, he refused medical aid until the enemy had broken combat. He then turned over the controls, but continued to exercise command despite lapses into unconsciousness and directed the flight to a base 580 miles away. In this voluntary action, Major Zeamer, with superb skill, resolution, and courage, accomplished a mission of great value."

*Major Zeamer, one of the four surviving Maine Medal of Honor recipients, currently resides in Boothbay Harbor.

Captain Everett Parker Pope entered the service in Massachusetts but was born in Belgrade, Maine, and, as such, is listed as a recipient of a Special Citation from Maine as a Medal of Honor recipient for his service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. On Peleliu Island September 18-20, 1944, "his valiant leadership against devastating odds while protecting the units below from heavy Japanese attack reflects the highest credit upon Captain Pope and the U.S. Naval Service."

*Captain Pope currently lives in Belgrade Lakes.

Everett Pope, Lewis Millett, Jay Zeamer, Edward Dahlgren

Prelude to "Operation Overlord"

"During the first six months of 1944, the United States and Great Britain concentrated land, naval, and air forces in England to prepare for Operation Overlord. While the Soviet Union tied down a great portion of the enemy's forces, the western Allies marshalled their resources, trained their forces separately and jointly for the operation, and designed the invasion plans to take full advantage of their joint and combined capabilities.

"Before the invasion, the air and sea components played major roles. The 12,000 planes of the Allied air forces swept the Luftwaffe from the skies, photographed enemy defenses, dropped supplies to the resistance, bombed railways, attacked Germany's industries and isolated the battlefield. The Allies' naval component was similarly active during the buildup. The navies escorted convoys, patrolled and protected the English Channel, reconnoitered beaches and beach defenses, conducted amphibious rehearsals and organized and loaded a mighty flotilla to land the assault forces in France.

"Meanwhile, the nine army divisions (three airborne and six infantry) from the United States, Britain, and Canada trained and rehearsed their roles in the carefully choreographed operation. Rangers climbed cliffs, engineers destroyed beach obstacles, quartermasters stockpiled supplies and infantrymen waded through the English surf as each honed the skills necessary for the invasion's success."

–"Fact Sheet D-Day, 6 June 1944 Normandy, France" at www.ukans.edu/heritage

June 6, 1944: Allies Invade the Beaches at Normandy

"The build-up in the British Isles was easily the most tremendous single logistical undertaking of all time. Preparations included transporting some 1,600,000 men across the submarine-infested Atlantic and providing their shelter, hospitalization, supply, training, and general welfare.

"Despite a weather forecast of high winds and a rough sea, General Eisenhower made a fateful decision to go ahead with the invasion on June 6. During the night over 5,000 ships moved to assigned positions, and at two o'clock, the operation for which the world had long and anxiously waited began…The first waves of infantry and tanks began to touch down at 6:30, just after sunrise."

– Chapter 22, World War II: The War Against
Germany and Italy by Charles B. MacDonald

I pay tribute to Pfc. Richard George Tanner, who parachuted into France on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and was killed in action 28 days later.
Lloyd F. Coombs, Woolwich

"T/Sgt. Freeman Gushee, son of Mr. And Mrs. Robert Gushee of Appleton and husband of Daisy Roberts Gushee of Swanville, has been awarded the Bronze Star Medal for distinguishing himself by meritorious service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States from July 4, 1944 to May 8, 1945, in France, Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany.

Sergeant Gushee fulfilled his duty as a rifle platoon Sergeant in an excellent manner, displaying high traits of initiative and aggressiveness on more than one occasion. He took command of a platoon when the leader became a casualty. He led many patrols and successfully led his men in many attacks, reaching his assigned objectives. He was wounded during one engagement. Sgt. Gushee refused to be evacuated but remained at his post. The courage, unswerving devotion to duty and aggressiveness shown by Sgt. Gushee reflect great credit to himself and the armed forces of the United States."

Rhonda Stark, Canaan

During Operation Overlord, the Allies landed at five beaches, with the code names of Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword, in the Normandy area on the northwest coast of France. In the eastern zone, the British and Canadians landed on Gold, Juno, and Sword Beaches. The Americans landed on two beaches in the west — Utah and Omaha.

U.S. soldiers began wading 100 yards to Utah Beach. Ten miles to the east at Omaha Beach, heavy German defenses on the bluffs above killed 4,649 U.S. troops who were trying to secure the beachhead. British and Canadian troops pushed ashore against lighter defenses and over easier terrain on Gold, Juno, and Sword beaches.

Maine veterans land on beaches far from home:

 

I will be voting in honor of my brother, Carlton E. Hutchins, who was in the U.S. Infantry at the Battle of Normandy, landing on Utah Beach. He was with his Division all of his time, going to the Margenot Line and on to Pelsen, Czechoslovakia. He was hospitalized for frozen feet. He received the Purple Heart plus other ribbons.
Marjorie Kunkel, Kittery

Maine citizens proudly remember the gallantry of loved ones participating in this assault:

 

My father, Stephen Davis, served in the Army 5^th Infantry Division. He hit Normandy in the 2^nd wave. He received the Bronze Star Infantry Badge, but most of all I was proud to call him my father.
Mark Davis, Rumford
Served during Vietnam era

Veterans from Maine did not escape the most gruesome horrors of this war:

Our outfit lost 63,000 men there. I must say the war left me with a lot of nightmares and to this day I have to watch everyone around me and every airplane, wherever it is.
Keith U. Waning, Hollis
Served in 45^th Division, 180^th Infantry in U.S. Army

Fall, 1944

The Allied forces under Eisenhower succeed in establishing a front from the North Sea to Switzerland following their invasion in Normandy in June. The Allied forces are stretched very thin.

Hitler thinks a well-executed strike could severely hurt the Allied push towards Germany and possibly turn the tide of the war. He announces plans for an offensive operation, with Antwerp as the objective. The Ardennes was the location for the offensive because it offered great cover for massing the necessary forces in secrecy for a surprise German attack.

Maine veterans' service included duty in the Ardennes Forest:

Battle of the Bulge – December 16, 1944

The Battle of the Bulge lasted from December 16, 1944 to January 28, 1945. It was the largest land battle of WWII in which the United States participated. More than a million men fought in this battle including some 600,000 Germans, 500,000 Americans, and 55,000 British. At the conclusion of the battle, the casualties were as follows: 81,000 Americans with 19,000 killed; 1,400 British with 200 killed, and 100,000 Germans killed, wounded or captured.

There had been a race between the 5^th Panzer and the American 101^st Airborne division to get to Bastogne first and hold it. The Americans won, but by December 25^th, the Germans had surrounded the city and moved on.

Bastogne would become the heroic pocket of American resistance to the German offensive, and would be the object of General Patton's amazing counterattack against the German southern flank.

"General George S. Patton Jr. was one of the ablest and most controversial U.S. commanders in World War II…Patton distinguished himself in various campaigns including the invasion of North Africa and the capture of Sicily…Patton's expertise in tank command helped frustrate the December 1944 German counteroffensive in the Ardennes at the Battle of the Bulge. Under his command the Third Army swept into Germany and into Czechoslovakia."

For more information about "The American Experience," please visit www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/.

Several respondents highlighted veterans' connections to General Patton:

My dad, August Armelin, worked on Patton's jeep.
Robert M. Armelin, Rockland

My brother, Clyde Parker, served with the 4^th Armored Division in the 3^rd Army with Patton. He went from the beaches to the outside of Berlin. We are very proud of him.
Paul R. Parker, Norway

I will be voting in honor of my uncle, Aurio Pierro, who served in the U.S. Tank Group. He received 2 Silver Stars as a tank commander and a Purple Heart. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge with General Patton and received the "Unsung Hero Award." He does not talk about it.
Walter Cook, Ogunquit

My uncle, Carl Pulsifer, drove the Jeep for General Patton. He is a hero to me.
Harold D. Gary, Sr., Bucksport
Served in the Navy in Vietnam,1964-71

Voters praise the contributions of veterans who saw action during the Battle of the Bulge:

My father, Major Frederic C. Wall, was a prisoner of war when I was born. He was captured at the Battle of the Bulge.
Frederic C. Wall III, Satsuma, AL

I am voting in honor of my two brothers. Louis Edward Cunningham was a Private in the U.S. Army during WWII. According to his records, he entered military service on March 9, 1943 and was assigned to 106^th Reconnaissance Troop, 106^th Infantry Division. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was captured on December 17, 1944. He was liberated by the British on April 27, 1945 and returned to the states in June. When he was discharged in December of 1945, he had attained the rank of Staff Sergeant.

My other brother, Francis Herbert Cunningham, also served in the Army during WWII but I do not have his records. Like all veterans, he put his life on the line for our freedom. He passed away in 1976.
Irene C. Estabrook, Bangor

When I vote, I will pay tribute to Leo K. Lick, who received the Silver Star and Bronze Star. He fought in the Sicilian campaign, the Invasion of Normandy, and the Battle of the Bulge. I was his platoon sergeant. He was a real all-around good person and an outstanding soldier. He now lives in Gaylord, Minnesota.
George W. Eldridge, North Berwick Served in 1^st Infantry Division in Africa, Sicily, and Normandy

Battle of the Hedgerows

Germans believe that these battles on the beaches are only diversionary tactics, so they do little to organize sizable counterattacks on D-Day. Allied aircraft and French resistance fighters impede the movement of German reserves, but the Germans are able to defend terrain in the French countryside known as "hedgerow country." High banks of earth around every small field had been erected to fence livestock and protect crops. The Germans turned each field into a small fortress.

The Third U.S. Army under General Patton enters the line to end the battle of the hedgerows. Through a variety of successful Allied maneuvers, the German forces begin to withdraw. The men and women of the French resistance battle the Germans in the streets of Paris. The German forces fall back in defeat toward the German frontier.

The Final Allied Assaults

Early in 1945, while U.S. troops continue their drive in southern France, Soviet armies start a drive toward the Oder River, only 40 miles from Berlin. The Germans have little chance of holding west of the Rhine. General Eisenhower continues the U.S. push through central Germany to link with the Russians.

By mid-April Allied armies make contact with the Red Army approaching from the east. Berlin falls to the Soviets. Hitler commits suicide. German troops surrender all along the German front and in Italy.

War in Europe is Over

On May 7, 1945, the German Government surrenders. May 8, 1945 is V-E Day, Victory in Europe…and the end of the war in Europe.

More Tributes to Veterans' Patriotism and Loyalty

Of all the responses received for the Vote in Honor of a Veteran program, nearly half of them honored servicemen and women who served during World War II. The following represent some of the heartfelt tributes to the courage, commitment, and honor of veterans during this unparalleled chapter in world history:

I pay tribute to my twin sister, Dorothy Patt Perlgut, who was a WAVE in WWII. She served as a Storekeeper 1st class in Virginia and Georgia.
Selma Shure, Searsmont

Additional Tributes Submitted Online

Tribute to my grandfather, Kenneth W. Pike, Sr.:

Grandpa we miss you so very much since your passing. We all should have thanked you more for your service and personal sacrifice in WWII. Your legacy continues in all of us that you loved. With Much Love and Gratitude.

Lesli, Portland

Tribute to my uncle, Edward C. Allen:

He was in the allied invasion of Normandy.

Robert F. Allen Jr., Lewiston, Maine

Tribute to my late husband, Norman T Pease:

He served on a aircraft carrier.

Deanna Pease, West Gardiner, ME

Tribute to my father, Gordon N. Johnson, M.D.:

My Father served honorably in England in the 67th General Hospital unit, which was from Maine, often operating for days on end.

Jane Johnson, Forest City, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Herbert Cleston Howard:

Dad was a Staff Sergeant in the army motor pool as a mechanic. Dad was proud to have been of service to his country. From all his daughters Joanne Badger, Marilee Shaw and June Fritts.

Marilee Shaw, Danville, Maine

Tribute to my Uncle, 2nd Lt. Wallace C. Ellis:

"Bud" Ellis served as a P-38 Reconnaissance pilot with the 12th Photo Squad, 3rd Reconnaissance Group, 12th Air Force. Killed over Corsica on November 12, 1943, his plane exploded after he returned from a mission over the Ploesti oil fields. He is buried in the Rome-Sicily American Cemetery in Nettuno, Italy.

Bud Ellis, South Portland

Tribute to my Mother, Florence L. Yoder:

Her courage and deep love of country that led her to join the WAC's in WWII. She served Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, France and the Battle of the Bulge.

Jerry Ann Yoder, Yarmouth, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Horace G. LaBree:

My dad was a brave young man during WWII as were so many others. He served in C.B.I. and as there is no mention of Asia in the categories I chose Europe. I love my dad and am eternally grateful for his sacrifice.

Carol, Greenbush

Tribute to my Father, William H. Duley, Jr.:

Served in the United States Navy, Armed Guard. January 1942-October 1945, Atlantic, Mediterranean, European and Pacific Campaigns.

William H. Duley, III, Anson, ME

Tribute to my Grandfather, Keith H. Milton:

I am very proud of his service to our country.

Maryanne Milton Aldrich, Plymouth, NH

Tribute to my Grandfater, Bruce E. Morrison:

A tribute to the sacrifices he made not only to his family but to himself as well. I love you.

Jana Miller, Eastport, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Robert Latlippe`:

We are very proud of Dad---

Heidi Moody, Huntington Beach, CA

Tribute to my Grandfather, Marcellini A. Cusano:

A little over a year has passed since God called you home, but yet I still feel your presence as if you were right here with me. I remember growing up as a kid, the stories you would tell me about the places you had been and seen, and the stories you would tell me about your time in Europe. I didn't get the chance to say I love you before you left us, but if you could hear me now, please know how dearly you are missed. You were the one who came home, and laid the foundation for our family, and helped mold it into what we are today. As 3rd generation, I hope that my experiences with you and the wisdom you have left us will continue to be passed on to your great grandchildren who never got the honor of your presence. Rest assured, it will be carried on, and they will know all about you, and the wonderful man that you are. Although you are gone, you will live forever in my heart as you were more of a father to me than a grandfather. I thank you for the time you gave me, and know how much I love you. Sleep well, until we meet again.

Rob Gentile, Waterville

Tribute to my Father, Norman E. Nimon:

Dad's birthday is in May, we always think of him at this time of year. Memorial Day was a special time to gather his family together for a Lebanese cookout. He's been gone now some 8 years and we miss him each and every day. We grew up looking at his trunk full of WWII memorabilia and fondly recall his colorful stories, about his war experience in Europe. He always tried to find humor and be positive about his time fighting for our freedom. With hindsight we know of course how difficult and horrible it must have been for him to witness what he did and to be so far away from those he loved in Maine. He was part of the "Greatest Generation" and we'll never forget the sacrifices he made for us and for his country. Dad will be on our minds when we vote this year and always.

James F. Nimon, Augusta, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Clifford Dionne:

My father was a highly decorated soldier. Never having gone further than eighth grade, speaking very little English (French Acadian) he bravely led his troop. He was awarded the following: Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished Unit Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, European African Middle Eastern Theatre Campaign Ribbon with bronze arrowhead, Bronze Star and the Silver Star for "Gallantry In Action". My dad's unit was the first to land on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. His unit assisted in the liberation of Paris fought in central Europe, northern France, The Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace and Belgium. His unit was involved in 299 days of combat. Serving with the Army's 8th infantry, 4th Division, he staggered ashore at Normandy amid a hail of shells and bullets; he fought through the Ardennes forest, and for months he stalked through the woods in Germany, his unit sprinting across the country, darting out to engage the enemy and slipping back into the forests again until the end of the European front of the was declared. My father was also wounded receiving shrapnel to his lower thigh which contributed to lifelong pain and later arthritis. My dad suffered from what is now known as "PTSD" and having lost so many comrades rarely ever talked about his experiences. As one of his ten children we came away knowing my dad was very proud to serve and he fully supported his two sons who served in the Korean War and Vietnam. He knew more what faced them than we could ever imagine. Presently we have six young adults serving; four of them in Iraq and one who served and is now a civilian.

Nancy Dionne-Lavertu, Madawaska, Maine

Tribute to my Father-in-law, Francis French:

He served in the Korean conflict, was in U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. Was proud to be an Americian.

Linda Pearl, Oxford, Maine

Tribute to my Mother, Louise French:

Even after her time in the military was over as a Women?s Army Core Nurse, she worked as an R.N. at Togus Hospital until she retired and loved the men and women she helped.

Thomas Pearl, Oxford, Maine

Tribute to my Aunt, Elizabeth Peterson:

She was a WAC in the Army.

Amanda Flint, Mechanic Falls, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Raymond Louis Michaud:

I just want to say I am a very fortunate man to have been born to such an incredible man. He passed away in 2001 and he is very sorely missed. A website has been set up by me in dedication of his military service. http://www.geocities.com/perfectprocrastinator/missions.html God Rest His Soul, Long May He Live. From A Proud Son.

Louis Raymond Michaud, Lincoln, Maine

Tribute to my Father, John W. Gamage:

I want to along with all of us in this wonderful State of Maine salute my father as well as thank him for serving our country during WWII. He was on the front lines at Normandy and had the distinct pleasure of visiting the beach last year some 62 years later. We salute you John Gamage and thank you for making our country what it is today.

Ronald S. Gamage, Thomaston, Maine

Tribute to my Friend, Robert Treadwell:

World War II vet; "stated he fought and did what he could do". He was born in Bangor, Maine, on Jan. 10, 1926. Son of Irma and Everard Treadwell. Bob graduated from Bangor High school and was drafted right after High School. He fought with honor to his country. He worked for Penobscot Valley country club for years.

Laurie Hall, Brewer, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Arthur V. Kierstead:

Drafted-1943; discharged-1946 Cannon Co. 2nd inf. div. 38th regiment bronze star recipient. Major battles: Normandy, Brest, France, Hurtgenwald, Battle of the Bulge, The Rhine, Germany, Czechoslovakia.

John A. Kierstead, South Portland, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Rue Cray:

My father, Rue Cray served with the 258th Combat Engineer Battalion during WWII. He was a great man of courage and honor. I am proud of my father and the service he gave to his country.

Ivan Cray, Presque Isle, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Leon F. Leach:

Served in North Africa, Sicily, Italy for 3 years. Born January 11, 1916, died May 24, 1999.

Clyde T. Leach, Enola, PA

Tribute to my Father, Paul P.A. Henri:

My father was at Omaha Beach. His efforts are noted in the series "Battle Report." He was awarded the Bronze Star with Clusters for his actions there.

Helene C. Henri Plourde, Scarborough, ME

Tribute to my Mother, Mabel E. (Utecht) Delcourt:

My mom was a Navy Radio Operator, RM3C. She served at the USN Radio Activities, Fort Blakely, Washington, USN Radio Station, Skaggs Island, California, and the Radio Station in Boston, Massachusetts. She had a short career in the Navy, but she served with dignity and professionalism.

Anne E. (Delcourt) Moore, Steep Falls, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Roger A. Delcourt:

My dad served with pride and dignity as a CPL. Gun Crewman Medium Artillery 864. He served from 11/5/42 to 12/12/45. He served in many battles that our family was not aware of, my dad was very quiet and did not talk about his over seas tours, except maybe in passing. He served in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe. He was awarded the following: The European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon, The American Theater Campaign Ribbon, The Victory Medal and The Good Conduct Medal. We are very proud of my dad and his military accomplishments.

Anne E. (Delcourt) Moore, Steep Falls, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Vernon W. Bradeen:

He was a fighter pilot. He flew a P-51. I love to here him tell about when he was in the Air Force.

David S. Bradeen, Hartford, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Karlton A Hatch:

I would like to vote for my Dad who served in Patton?s 3rd Army. He was in a fox hole in the rain when he got word that I had been born. I was almost 2 years old when he returned home. He still marches in all the parades and loves his Flag and Country. Love Forever Dad, I am so proud of you.

Pamela (Hatch) Phillips, Machias, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Roger H. Begin:

My Dad was a tank commander who served in North Africa and Italy from 1942 to 1945. He was proud of his role in the liberation of Rome.

Richard R. Begin, Portland, Maine

Tribute to my Hero, Jack A. Hernandez:

Jack served in France. He fought with and along side of Audey Murphy. He was in the original Screen Play of "Oklahoma?. Jack (Jacques) A. Hernandez. Jack was in Audey's squad and got into a few verbal fights with him. Jack joined the army after the Navy rejected him because he could not speak English. Jack came into the U.S. from Mexico; he wanted to ?get those Japanese for bombing Pearl Harbor and killing Americans?. The Army sent Jack to France so he fought Germans instead. Jack is a Purple Heart recipient, 86 years young and loves the Lord that spared his life. Jack has a bullet in his back and lost his shoulder. I wish he could get the recognition he deserves.

Donald C. Rogers, Bath, Maine

Tribute to my Father In Law, William Garfield Potter:

Though he has since passed on, he and many more like him have given us rights no one else in this world has. Thank You

John Thibodeau, Bangor, Maine

Tribute to my Army, Sewell Norton:

You served in the Army to protect our country and saw a lot for a country boy from Maine. I never hear you complain or regret that you did this. You make me proud to be your daughter.

Sharon Williams, Livermore, Maine

Tribute to my Grandfather, Camille Gagnon:

In honor of the man who serves as my mentor and hero.

David W. Devoe, Sabattus, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Francis Appleton Harding:

I am voting in honor of my father, Francis A. Harding who in spite of being too old for the draft, on hearing of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, joined the US Army in 1942, made Captain (Infantry) and served in the OSS in Europe until discharged in 1946.

Francis A. Harding, Jr., Newport, Maine

Tribute to my Grandfather, Douglas Emerson:

Now 89 years old, Alzheimer?s has taken some memories away and just this past June he lost his wife of nearly 70 years. I will honor him by learning more about his time in service to our country and the sacrifices he and his fellow serviceman made for our freedom. I will also honor him by thanking him and those serving today. We ALL need to "Remember" why we enjoy the freedoms we have in this Great Country, The United States of America!!

Melissa Vaccaro, Limerick, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Carl E. Milligan:

I am honoring my Father, who served as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne in WWII.

Eileen Laiberte, Oxford, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Carl Milligan:

Who served in the 101st Airborn as a "Glider Rider". A man to look up to!

Jeffrey Milligan, Skowhegan, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Eloi Laliberte:

Honor my Dad for his service to our country in WWII.

Richard W. Laliberte, Oxford, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Harold Abbott Davis:

Entered Active Duty 19 Mar 1943, Honorable Discharge 30 Mar 1945 Battles and Campaigns, Naples Eoggia Rome Arno, North Apennines PO Valley.

Paul Davis, Ellsworth, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Thomas A. Hart:

I would like to honor my father. He served in The Army Air Force in North Africa. He was a Flight Engineer on a B-25 named "Double Trouble". Dad was a "Super Patriot" and loved his country.

Dean Hart, Farmington, Maine

Tribute to my Grandfather, Aaron Marden:

What a great American

Aaron Marden, Strong, Maine

Tribute to my father, Raymond B. Bush:

Col. Bush, US Army, served in WWI (Calvery), WWII (Army Engineers) and as Commandant of Army Engineering School in New Haven, CT during Korean Conflict.

Barbara Bush Swan, Rangeley, Maine

Tribute to my Uncle, John H. Michaud:

I am honoring my Uncle, First Lieutenant John H. Michaud who was killed in action while a prisoner of German Govt. 12/23/1944. Sadly missed by his parents Mr. & Mrs. Telephore Michaud, family & wife Sarah.

Mary Ann Michaud Morin, Portland, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Shannon Edwin Swan:

My father was a Naval Aviator during WWII and taught me throughout my youth how to be a strong, dedicated American Patriot. He was a proud seviceman, and then veteran. His life was cut short in 1964 at age 42 because of cancer. I know that if he were alive today he would be extremely sad at the way in which the level of patriotism has declined. To him and all of that generation I say "Thank You!" for our freedoms, your sacrifices, and for instilling into so many of us the true meaning of American Patriotism.

Kathy Swan-Sprague, Bath, Maine

Tribute to my Uncles, James, Charles, Joseph & George Adams:

My uncle Jim, along with his brothers Charles, Joseph, and George, served gallantly in Europe in World War II. Uncle Jim was killed at Anzio. Uncle Charlie fought at the Battle of the Bulge, Uncle Joe was captured, and Uncle George served as a staff driver in Italy. I could not be more proud of my heritage.

Steve Adams, W. Gardiner, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Pvt. Arthur V. Kierstead:

Member of the vaunted 2nd ID, the Indian Head. 5 battle stars, Bronze Star, Presidential Unit Citation. D+1- Pilzen Czech Rep. Purple heart; On Litter detail during Battle of the Bulge used to say "Anyone can kill, but it takes someone special to save". Answered last muster on Nov.10, 2001

John Arthur Kierstead, South Portland, ME

Tribute to my Uncle, First Lieutenant John Michaud:

John H. Michaud was killed while a prisoner of the German Governnent. He was a graduate from the Officer Candidate School at Fort Bening Georgia and assigned to the 424th Infantry Regiment of the 106th Division at Fort Jackson. He has been missed by his family and his wife Sarah. He will always be remembered. I will make sure his story is never forgotten. Love your niece MaryAnn & The Michaud Family & Sarah

MaryAnn Michaud Morin, Portland, Maine

Tribute to my Uncle, First Lieutenant John H. Michaud:

John died as a POW who was killed in action Dec 23, 1944 while a prisoner of the German Government. He deserves to always be remembered. He was the son of Mr. Mrs Telesphore F. Michaud. He had five brothers and one sister. Several nieces and nephews.

MaryAnn Michaud Morin, Portland, Maine

Tribute to my Uncle, First Lieutenant John H. Michaud:

In Loving Memory of John H. Michaud, was killed in action Dec 23, 1944 while a prisoner of the German Government, son of Mr.& Mrs.Telesphore Michaud & Family

MaryAnn Michaud Morin, Portland, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Arthur R. Bickford:

In honor of his memory and helping to keep us free.

Arthur R. Bickford, Jr., Ellsworth, Maine

Tribute to my Grandfather, Morrill E. Alley:

I Love you Papa... Thanks for everything you sacrificed.. We will remember you Always...

Isaiah Morrill Albert & Jared Mark Tucker & Justin Chamberlain, Ellsworth, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Roy C. Stevens:

Dad, I don't think you really know how much your service relly means to us. How many men lived to climb those cliffs at OMAHA BEACH. All those medals and PURPLE HEARTS (2) will always be treasured. Our Veterans are the best, all of you wherever you served. Greatest of all you brought back the most treasured thing with you, MY MOM. Thank you Dad. They had 67 beautiful years. She just passed at 90 years young, still with that cute french accent. I just wish our vets in Wells got as much Attention in Augusta. They seem forgotten.

micheline coulson, Wells, Maine

Tribute to my Father, John DiCrecchio:

I honor my father John DiCrecchio who served in the Army in WWII and was a POW from February 16, 1944 to May 13, 1945.

Anita DiCrecchio, Scarborough, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Joseph Peter Tenneson, Jr.:

Served as crew chief and flight engineer with the 8th and 9th air forces.

Mark Tenneson, Livermore, Maine

Tribute to my Mother, Marie Parent:

I am paying this tribute to my mother who served along with her biological brothers during World War II, she was born in Presque Isle. I possess a photo of her and her brothers in uniform.

Claudette Peluffo, Leominster MA

Tribute to my Father, Donald Masterman Smith, USN:

Born in 1911 at home on Chamberlain Ave. in Portland Maine. He joined the Maine Citizens Military Training Camp at Ft. McKinley in 1928 at the age of 17. He retired as the oldest enlisted man in the US Navy in 1972 after 44 years of faithful service to his beloved America. Commended for devotion to duty while under fire and bombing during the evacuation of Singapore in 1942. He served in both the Europe, Pacific theaters and continued during the Korean and Vietnam wars. He was Chief Master At Arms for president Kennedy's visit to China Lake Naval Ordnance Test Station in California in June of 1963. Chief Smith served on the Senior Staff of the USS Chicago CG-11, Flag Ship for the USS Kitty Hawk Aircraft Carrier. My father passed away at home in January 1974 and under the direction of the 11th Naval District, Smitty' as his fellow shipmates called him, was buried at sea with full honors from the USS Hepburn DE-1055 in January of 1974. Accompanying this event with, 'All hands on deck, was the crew of his last sea duty, the USS Chicago and the USS Kitty Hawk on their voyage and WestPac tour to Asia. Having navigated the 7 oceans of the world and devoting his entire life to serve freedom wherever he was needed, A good and kind man, I am so very proud to say he was my father. Any person who ever shook his hand never forgot him and in doing so, knew they were in the presence of a friend. Although many years have slipped by since his passing..I can feel the goodness of his spirit as strong as ever. I am pleased to honor his memory at this time, for as America moves on, we should cherish and bring forward the good of the past and leave the rest in the backwash of history Chief Smith's ancestors are interred at Evergreen Cemetery in Portland Maine and there is a monument there in remembrance to his life and service. Donald Masterman Smith was and is a true Maine American Hero.

William R. Rice, Wilton, Maine

Tribute to my Brother., Ex. SSGT. Harold A. Choate:

Thanks for joining and being one of the greatest generation and inspiring me to serve.

Sgt. Luther C Choatee, Addison, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Leopold E. Bonin:

Thank you for your service. I miss you.

Rayna Bonin Leibowitz, Litchfield, Maine

Tribute to my father, Wesley Seaward:

Thank you for your service to our country.

June Hill, Hollis Center

Tribute to my Relative, Roland A Ouellette:

Received Purple Heart for his action in Germany. Was wounded by a shrapnel that shattered his spinal column.

Lennie Ouellette, Wilmington, MA

Tribute to my Father, Roy Cleveland Stevens:

I am the proud daughter to a great soldier who climbed the cliffs on Omaha beach, the first team. How a boy of 17 years is ready to do this I'll never know. I think around June 3rd is when his boats were loaded to head there. He was wounded twice, two purple hearts and lived to come home with a beautiful french bride who worked for the red cross over there, a beautiful woman who was in this country for 67 years with her man till they just passed away. If that isn't a love story I don't know what is. A FATHER TO BE PROUD OF!

Micheline Stevens-Coulson, Wells, Maine

Tribute to my father, Leo C. Mckeown:

He was always proud to be an American. Served 25 years

Jackie Bryant, Knox, Maine

Tribute to my Uncle, Joseph Louis Therriault:

Served 3 years in Germany to keep the peace.

Sharon A. Dupuis Saucier, Old Town, Maine

Tribute to my Father, Alvin James Harris, Jr.:

My father served in three wars and two branches of service (Air Force and Navy) in his 27 years of military service. I cannot be more proud of him! I love you forever and a day!! XOXO

Karen Harris-Gagne, North Berwick, Maine

Tribute to my step-father, Howard Harriman:

A life-long patriot. He knew the sacrifices made to protect our country. He was very active in American Legion, having served as Past Commander five times, Americanism Officer for schools and participated in parades and events - walking in those events until age 89! He loves this country and promoted military service whenever he could.

Judy Williams, Winthrop

Tribute to my father-in-law, Wendell J. MacDonald:

Wendell served proudly in WWII and regaled the family with stories. He is no longer with us, he will always be in our hearts and minds. I vote in honor of him.

Elizabeth Fowler, Portland, ME

Tribute to my Father, Thomas H. MacDonald:

My father was in the Army Air Corp and served in Europe. He was a navigator on a bomber flying from Italy to bomb the city of Dresden, Germany. On his last mission in November 1944, his plane was shot down over Czechoslovakia. A farmer picked him up and brought him to a village office. The Germans sent SS officers to transport him to Berlin for interrogation. All of the soldiers on his plane made it home safely from the war though my father did not see any of them until many years later, in the 1990's in Florida (he had a ME FORMER POW license plate.

When my father arrived in Berlin, he was questioned many times and then placed in solitary confinement for about 2 months. He said that this was the most difficult time, little human contact. Then he was moved to several concentration camps in Germany and Poland. This was near the end of the war and there was very little food or fuel to keep warm. But he said life was better being with other soldiers. Also, he commended the German people who worked in the camps "as good people just like us". My Dad did not talk about most of his experience until the last decade of his life. He said to me, "War is awful and confusing". He described the bombing of Dresden as horrific, "the sky was black with bombers flying under radar, then blasting the city in clouds of smoke."

At the end of the war, Hitler ordered that all prisoners of war be killed. He was then in a camp with several thousand prisoners and only a few hundred Germans working there. The prisoners told the guards that they were out numbered and that the prisoners would revolt and kill the guards if necessary. It was not necessary.

When World War II ended, my dad's camp had still not been liberated. It was in a location such that the Russians would be liberating them. My dad did not like that idea so he just walked out of the camp with the German workers and no one stopped him. Before he left he had the foresight to tear his detailed prison record from the official records so he could prove that he had been imprisoned.

Next, he tried to find Americans and hid in several Polish manor housed. He said that he observed Russian troops coming to liberate the prison camp. Eventually he met up with some allied soldiers just as they were liberating Bergen Belsen death camp. He saw the survivors being removed in wagon. He said that they looked like death, like skeletons yet they were alive. This was indeed the most horror that he witnessed. He could not understand how this could have happened and why God, if there was one, let it happen. From that moment on, he did not believe in a God. I did not know this until 1997 about a year before his death of chronic leukemia.

My father was a man who returned from the war damaged in ways we never knew. He would never lock his cars or the places where we lived. He enjoyed life to the fullest and never focused on the negative, often to the point of self-centered behavior. He was a gifted athlete and was nicknamed "moose" when in Army training because he would carry the guts packs when they could not.

He was very active before and after the war, up until his death in August 1998. He played golf in Florida and at Sugarloaf until 3 weeks before his death. He loved downhill skiing and we skied together when he was 75. He loved playing football in high school (Madison HS), at MCI and at the University of Maine after the war. In high school he was the goalie on the state champion team for Madison. He was a great tennis player and was on Madison's team when it won the state championship. He was a school teacher in Madison for many years and a ski instructor at Sugarloaf for 20+ years. One of his first trips after the war in the winter of 1946, was to camp out at the bottom of Sugarloaf mountain and climb several miles to the summit with skins on his skis to ski down the Winter's Way trail.

He loved to fish at Moose Head and at Chesuncook Lake, canoe in the Allagash and climbed Mount Kathadin many times. He taught many Madison Junior High School students to ski when he was a gym teacher. He encouraged me and those around him to be active, to be the best at whatever you do, and to enjoy life to the fullest everyday. He was and is my hero.

Nancy J. MacDonald, Bingham, Maine

Tribute to my grandfather, Raymond Day:

I vote in his name because he taught me how important our democracy is and how Germany was until Hitler

vickie, wallace

Tribute to my father, Joseph LP Mathew:

Thank you Dad for you Service to your country.

Joseph P Mathew, Gray, Maine

Tribute to my uncle, milton foss:

he served america to the highest degree. has passed on years ago

douglas pratt, dexter