LOL, I think I read this today, was on this site, which I bookmarked.
We think alike.
I’ll NEVER get my column written if I keep reading these interesting accounts of those who served there. I’ve had quite a history crash course today.
I tried to get Delbert to tell me about his experiences, and he did, little by little, tell me stories while we were fishing. The last couple of years he couldn’t talk about it without getting choked up.
He told me about the radio operator who was killed (he couldn’t remember his name, but could the details of the incident). He also told me about his Lt., who was strapped in a tree so he could fire a big gun from an elevated position, then was shot dead. Delbert really got choked up talking about this, so I didn’t push him for details. I wish now I had of asked more, as I want to honor his sacrifice with written words, but really need to get my facts straight and make sure I can connect any statements with factual history.
I have a copy of his citation for the Silver Star (dated Dec. 29, 1944) on my desk as I type this. It is signed by Lt. Col., A.G.D., Adjutant General, Wesley U. Moran.
Delbert was an assistant squad leader when he made the decision to (with two others) cross the open terrain in the firefight and kill an enemy machine gun crew.
After reading today some of the details of those days on Angaur, I realize, more than ever, what a great man he was, and what horrors those men endured in battle.
Another thing:
Not being military myself, some of the reading was confusing today.
I read lots of references to the 321d Infantry, the 323d Infantry.
Delbert was it the 322d Infantry. I’ve searched for the difference, and actual references to the 322, with little success.
Not sure what the difference is in these divisions. Guess I need to go back and search some more on this, on military specifics (another several hours on dialup).
My deadline is looming so I might have to let that one go, but I am curious. If you have time, would appreciate a short summery of what the difference is between these (thanks in advance, bowing in your honor for helping me out).