Gleanings from "The Kinmundy Express"

1945

Compiled by Dolores Ford Mobley

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Please note!!! The articles on this web site were originally reported in weekly editions of "The Kinmundy Express" (also known at one time as "The Marion County Express") which are now located on microfilm at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library - Newspaper Microfilm Depository in Springfield, Illinois. Please note that the gleanings listed within this compilation do NOT represent entire articles in most cases, but instead, general and summarized information with special interest being focused upon data which is significant to genealogical research.

 Jan. 4, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter received from PFC See MILLICAN, who is wintering in the Netherlands East Indies, Dec. 21. He says: How is everything in the good old town of Kinmundy by now? I am in the best of health and am doing fine in the heat and sunshine of this place. I sure feel sorry for you folks who are probably huddled around the old heater about now. I am sweating just like the proverbial Turk right now while writing this. But seriously, I would just as soon be back there with all the rigors of winter. I hear you lost a good citizen in George BARGH. Sure was sorry to hear of his death. I thought that I better write you and give you my permanent address and APO as I think it will be the same where ever we go. I haven’t received a Kinmundy Express since I have been over here. The reason is that I have had and have been moving around a good deal the past few months. They will eventually catch up with me I guess. The only trouble is the process of being forwarded. It takes about a couple of months for newspapers and packages to reach here. I have received 3 Christmas packages so far. They got here for Thanksgiving though, but I guess it better early than late. This makes 2 years that I have spent Christmas in the field but I shouldn’t kick as a lot of fellows have spent 3 years and Christmases overseas. We are having our Christmas dinner tomorrow. I haven’t seen the menu yet but the rumor is that we are going to have turkey with all the trimmings. As yet I have not been fortunate enough to see any of the boys from home over here although I have 2 letters from Frank BAKER and one from Art STANKEY, a cousin of my wife from East St. Louis. Another one of the fellows from the Omega way was in the very vicinity where I am a while ago but was gone when I arrived. I wish to take this opportunity to wish all my friends of Kinmundy and vicinity a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May the dove of peace once again fly over this war harassed world in the year of 1945. We are right in the middle of summer over here down under. The heat and sunshine are terrific, but you soon get used to it. It doesn’t rain here quite as much as it did the last place I was. There the poncho was a very necessary item of clothing. Well, Norris, as you know I can’t tell you many of the things that you and the folks back home would like to know, but it is for our safety so we shouldn’t kick. Tell all the folks hello for me and I hope by this time next year, all their sons, daughters, husbands, fathers and friends will be able to spend next Christmas once again.

- Here’s a V-Mail from Pvt. George MEYER, written on Christmas Day, who is now in England. He says: I suppose you think I have forgotten you, but have not. I am to live in Merry old England as so many of the other boys have been. I can say about as Harold KLEISS did that I am in a building and sleep on a straw tick with some straw in it. It isn’t like an inner spring mattress, but is far better than sleeping on the ground in a pup tent or a fox hole. My November 26 issue of the Express caught up with me sooner than I expected. It came just about as soon as airmail letters. I find the people here on an average, are rather friendly. Thought at first it was going to be hard for me to understand them when they talked. I find it is easier than I though. There are houses and stone walls here such as one might see in the movies. It is interesting to see: country and city alike. It is quite different than good old Illinois. If you would see one of their freight trains go by on the I.C., you would wonder where in the world they found it. An average coal car is about one-fourth as long as ours and they coupled with a sort of chain links. I hope you have had a happy Christmas. Mine has been rather pleasant considering the circumstances. I had a pleasant sociable Christmas Eve and also part of the day, today, with an R.A.F. man and his family. Well, my space is gone so I must close. I thank you for the paper and am glad to get it.

- In a note form Mr. and Mrs. G.M. NIRIDER of Decatur, inclosing their renewal, they state that both their sons are in the service. PFC Fred is in France and has been overseas since last February. S. Sgt. Merle is in the Marines and is at present in school for radar in South Carolina. We are always glad to hear from our former residents.

- A.J. JONES suffered a stroke Tuesday and was taken to Paxton to the home of a daughter.

- S. Sgt. Benjamin N. JOHNSON returned to his camp in Wilmington, N.C., Tuesday, after spending a holiday furlough here with his mother, Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON.

- Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL were called to Oblong, Ill. Monday for the funeral of his cousin, Mrs. Alice MILAM, 74, who died on Dec. 28 at the Brooks Hospital at Robinson, Ill.

- Mr. and Mrs. Marion HELM received word that their son, Cpl. Howard, is on his way from the South Pacific to the States.

- PFC Lewis SPURLIN has just returned to the states from Guam Island, according to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.T. SPURLIN of Vandalia.

- Mrs. Mattie SMITH TOMLINSON died in the home of her son in Detroit, Mich. on New Year’s Day. She will be remembered as the sister of the late Tom SMITH. Interment will be in Detroit.

- W.W. LOWE wrote a letter from the south.

- S. Sgt. Sterling SULLIVAN Awarded Six Bronze Battle Stars at Fighter Base in Italy: 12th AAF Fighter Base in Italy - S. Sgt. Sterling J. SULLIVAN, 26, Kinmundy, Ill., has been authorized six bronze battle stars according to information received at this advance Thunderbolt group. The stars represent participation in the Egyptian-Libian, Tunisian, Sicilian, Southern and Northern Italian and French campaigns. S. Sgt. SULLIVAN is the son of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. SULLIVAN, Kinmundy. He was a farmer in the Kinmundy sector prior to enlistment in the service, November, 1941. He departed for overseas on Oct. 6, 1942. The Illinois aircraft mechanic also wears the War Dept. Unit Citation ribbon presented to his group for outstanding performance of duty, and the Mediterranean theater ribbon. SULLIVAN’s task as an aircraft mechanic requires technical skill applied in the most adverse weather and living conditions. He was a member of his present fighter-bomber unit throughout the blistering Western Desert campaign in 1942, being one of the few Americans attached to MONTGOMERY’s Eighth Army. He has traveled upward thru 8 foreign countries, participating in 4 major invasions. Among other distinctions, he was among the first Air Corps groundmen to operate from southern France beachhead strips and from the first Rhone valley airdrome captured in the Seventh Army "uppercut" operation in September. During his 20,000 miles of travel overseas he has helped establish dozens of airfields, all part of the job of a Thunderbolt mechanic with a fast moving fighter squadron. His crack Thunderbolt outfit commanded by Col. Gladwin PINKSTON, is one of the oldest and best in the Mediterranean theater. Now in its third year overseas, the group has flown over 27,000 combat sorties in 6 major campaigns. They are now smashing the enemy strong points, communications, and gun positions with the Desert Air Force in support of the Eighth Army Troops in Italy and Allied forces in Yugoslavia. They have figured prominently in the recent innovation of Thunderbolt rocket guns. The group has been commended by Gen. ARNOLD, Gen. MONTGOMERY, Air Marshall CONNINGHAM, Air Marshall TEDDER, Air Marshall BROADHURST and Capt. Eddie RICKENBACKER.

- Miss Mae SCHERMERHORN died in San Francisco, Cal. after a lingering illness on Dec. 28. Mr. and Mrs. SCHERMERHORN and daughter, Lieut. Irene SCHERMERHORN were at her bedside. Services were held Jan.11 from the Alma Methodist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Pvt. Chas. BERRY is here at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer BUTTS on a 15 day furlough to visit his wife and son and relatives.

- Wilson School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Eura SHAFFER and family attended a Christmas dinner at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom SHAFFER in honor of their son, Donald, who will leave next week for service in the armed forces.

- East Zion: Lieut. Ancel ARNOLD of Camp Lubbock, Texas, is spending furlough with homefolks. He will return to Denver, Colorado, Jan. 4.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Hobart ARNOLD and sons, Ancel and Beryle, called at the Chas. ARNOLD home, Tuesday night.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Hobart ARNOLD and sons, Ancel and Beryl, called at the James BASSETT home Thursday night.

- East Zion: S. Sgt. Marvin BASSETT and wife spent Thursday at the Harold BELCHER home.

- Wilson School: A farewell party was tendered for Mr. and Mrs. Marion SHUFELDT on New Year’s Eve. As they are leaving our community this spring and moving to their home near Bee Branch, which was recently purchased. Music, singing, and games were enjoyed. Refreshments were served near the close of 1944, and the New Year was ushered in for 1945. A list of those attending was included.

- Young School: Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON had word from their son, Pvt. Xon, that he was ready to sail for overseas duty.

- Swift School: Last Tuesday neighbors went to the home of Frank GREEN and got his winter supply of wood and sawed it for him. He is still confined to his bed, and not much improved.

- Swift School: Pvt. Paul MONTGOMERY, wife and son spent Wednesday at the Billie MORRIS home.

- Swift School: Laura Jean GREEN of Olney spent the weekend with her father, W.L. GREEN, Burl and Louise.

- Meacham: The Community Birthday Circle and their families held their annual New Year Eve’s party at the home of Mr. and Mrs. E.G. DILLON, which was also a joint celebration of the 25th anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Rubin CRAIN. A list of those attending was included.

- Meacham: Virgil BURKETT, CF 1 c, who has been in the South Pacific area for 22 months came home Monday to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank BURKETT.

- Meacham: Pvt. Carroll ALLEN, wife and baby spent a few days in Farina with his father and on Thursday left for Ft. Knox, Ky.

- "333" In the Service: Leland B. ALDERSON, Cecil ALDRICH, Xon L. ALEXANDER, Daniel A. ARNOLD, Grace ARNOLD, Mark L. ARNOLD, Donna B. ARNOLD, Raymond ATKINS, Merle BAYLIS, Lloyd BAILEY, Ray Y. BAILEY, Calvin BARBEE, William BARBEE, Lyle E. BARBEE, Everett D. BASS, Oliver M. BASS, Robert L. BASS, James A. BASSETT, James M. BASSETT, Lawrence H. BASSETT, Charles BERRY, Thomas A. BOONE, John T. BORING, Joseph BORING, James R. BOSTON, Marion BOSTON, Norman R. BOWMAN, W. Arthur BOYD, Fred BOYD, Thomas F. BOYD, Cecil BRIM, Charles BRIM, C.M. BROOM, Dale R. BROOM, John A. BROOM Jr., Wilbur A. BROOM, Ernest V. BROOM, Earl BRIMBERRY, Joe A. BRIMBERRY, Dean BRUBAKER, Forrest BURKETT, Virgil BURKETT, Warren BUSWELL, George BUTTS, Harold B. BUTTS, John W. CALDWELL, Ted CALDWELL, Clyde B. CAMERER, Harold CHANCE, Frances CHEATUM, Floyd CHEATUM, Alonzo CHURCH, Eldon D. COLCLASURE, Arvie Lee COX, Ambrose L. CRAIG, Lyle CONANT, James D. CONANT, Albert CORRELL, Carl CRAIN, Fred E. CRAIN, Roy W. DAVIS, W. Ralph DAY, Dwight C. DAY, Ivan DEVORE, Henry E. DeWEESE, Beryl DISS, Charles D. DISS, James DONOHO, A.H. DOOLEN, Charles L. DOOLEN, Bennie DOOLEN, Carl G. DOOLEN, Florence DOOLEN, Roy DOOLEN, Walter J. DOOLEN, Louie F. DOUDERA, Leo E. DONOVAN, Norman Lee DOWNS, James O. EAGAN, Floyd EAGAN, Noah EAGAN, Thomas EDWARDS, D.B. EGELSTON, James ELLIS, Tiny L. ELLIS, Carl T. FIELDS, Harold W. FIELDS, Charles DeFORDE, Kenneth L. FULFER, Andrew W. GAMMON, Rex GAMMON, Fred GAMMON, Harry L. GAMMON, Merle GARDENER, Dwight W. GARNER, Junior GARRETT, Chas. W. GARRETT, James E. GARRETT, Marvin GARRETT, Theodore L. GARRETT, Christy GENTRY, Orville GORDON, Donald R. GRAY, Harry E. GRAY Jr., Robert A. GRAY, Carl K. GREEN, Lyle W. GREEN, James W. GREEN, William H. GREEN Jr., Thomas Leroy GREEN, Edward HALLER, Delbert S. HAMMER, Howard HAMMER, James E. HAMMER, Merle HAMMER, Clifton HAMPSTEN, Louis Ervin HAMPSTEN, Richard D. HAMPSTEN, Virgil HAMPSTEN, James HANKS, H. Dwight HANNA, B.L. HANNA, Robert D. HANNA, Duane HANNA, Eldred J. HANSON, John HANSON, Virgil HARRIS, Charles HAYS, Lewis HAYS, Merle HEADLEY, Carl HEADLEY, Harve L. HEADLEY, Russell HEADLEY, R.C. HEADLEY, Wesley HEADLEY, Orville E. HEICHER, John Howard HELM, William H. HILL, John HINES, Gail W. HINES, Anson A. HINKLEY, Billy Eugene HOCKADAY, Ralph G. HOYT, Francis HICKMAN, Dwight INGRAM, Glenn G. INGRAM, Cecil E. INGRAM, Elwin G. INGRAM, Joseph R. INGRAM, L.C. INGRAM, Ray H. INGRAM, W. Coy INGRAM, Virgil U. JAMISON, Kenneth E. JACKSON, H. Merle JACKSON, Charles E. JASPER, Emmerson JONES, Harold W. JONES, Leon JONES, Ralph JENKINS, Chas. W. JENKINS, James E. JENKINS, John E. JEZEK, Edward JEZEK, Benjamin N. JOHNSON, C.W. JOHNSON, Harvey M. JOHNSTON, D. Floyd JONES, Harold JONES, Cecil F. JONES, Richard JONES, James C. JONES, George KEEN, L.C. (Pete) KEEN, Harold KLEISS, Charles B. KLINE, G.R. KOTTKAMP, Harlas D. KRUTSINGER, M. Hugh LACEY, Kenneth P. LACEY, Luther LACEY, H. Ted LACEY, Harold LAMBIRD, Roosevelt LAMBIRD, Everett LANSFORD, Jack LANSFORD, Glenn LEE, Clifton LEMAY, Zarold LEWIS, Kenneth LEWIS, Nancy LOWE, Rev. Cecil LOWE, Joseph LOVETT, Robert MAHAN, Robert G. MARSHALL, Virgil I. MARSHALL, James M. McCARTY, Rex McCARTY, John W. McCULLEY, Walter McHATTON, Ira G. MERRITT, George W. MEYER, Chas. MEYER, Donald K. MILLER, Ray George MILLER, Harold R. MILLER, See MILLICAN, Ralph MILLICAN, Frederick MISELBROOK, Oliver R. MITCHELL, Charles T. MINER, Harold H. MOELLER, Raymond A. MOELLER, Willard E. MOELLER, Clyde Q. MORGAN, James MORGAN, Richard F. MOTCH, Russell MOUNT, Arthur MUEHLHAUSEN, Arthur MULVANEY, Ralph P. MULVANEY, Edward MULVANEY, Tanner MULVANY, Ernie K. MULVANY, Charley NEAL, Perry L. NEAVILLE, Royal Bruce OLDEN, Leland OLDEN, Raymond OLDEN, H.D. OSBORNE, Warren OSBORNE, Earl W. OUTHOUSE, Tony PERGL, Donald D. PARRISH, Paul PARRISH, Oliver Paul PERRY, Vernon Cleo PERRY, Lewis Chester PERRY, John PHILLIPS, Jr., James W. PIGG, R. Wayne PIGG, Kenneth PIGG, Hartzel L. POWELL, Charles E. PRUETT, Frederick PRUETT, Carl E. PRUETT, Lynn PORTER, Carl E. PURCELL, John D. PURCELL, Dan S. RAINEY Jr., Darrell D. REESE, Flory REPEC, Conrad REPEC, John G. RICHARDSON, Harold W. ROBB, John R. ROBB, Howard L. ROBB, Erwin H. SCHNEIDER, Merle SCHNEIDER, Earl SCHWABE, David SCHOOLEY, Charles R. SEE, Earl SEE, John F. SEE, Frederick SEE, Leroy SEE, John SHAFFER, Russell SHAFFER, Leland F. SHORT, Philip E. SHORT, Edwin SHREFFLER, George I. SHREFFLER, Lyle SHREFFLER, Ralph W. SIMER, Harold SIMMONS, Harold SLANE, Anne SLOVICK, Joe SLOVICK, Francis SMITH, John SMITH, Kenneth D. SMITH, Warren C. SMITH, C.C. SMITH, John H. SMITH, Charles P. SMITH, Louie B. SOUTIER, Maxey M. SPENCER, Arno SPURLIN, Lewis L. SPURLIN, Orval SPURLIN, Clouris M. STIPP, Francis G. SULLENS, Orville V. SULLENS, Rolla SULLENS, Sterling J. SULLIVAN, Burdette SWIFT, Lyle SWIFT, E.A. THOMS, Clyde B. THOMAS, Adolph TOCKSTEIN, Theodore E. TROUT, Mitchell D. UNDERWOOD, Charles V. VALLOW, Joseph G. VALLOW, Annette VALLOW, Junior L. VANSCYOC, Grover C. VETETO, Walter W. WILLIAMS, Duane WALTON, Lloyd T. WANTLAND, Benny WARREN, William WEISS, Pearl WHITE, Willard WILEY, Xon WILKINSON, Kenneth WILKINSON, Woodrow WILKINSON, Chloris WILLIAMS, Dewayne WILLIAMS, Eugene WILLIAMS, Fred WILLIAMS, Henry E. WILLIAMS, Richard WILLIAMS, Walter WILLIAMS, Bill WILSON, Dale R. WRIGHT, Paul L. WRIGHT, Kenneth WRIGHT, Andrew YATES, Victor E. YATES, Charles W. YOUNG.

Jan. 11, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from PFC Russell SHAFFER written Dec. 12 and at that time, he was in England. Here is what he says: Perhaps a number of my friends from the old hometown have been wondering about my activities since I last wrote you from Sheppard Field, Texas, approximately 18 months ago. You might say my career in the army has been blessed with some good breaks and a few that were not so good. My first 5 months of basic spent in an Armored Infantry Camp in Cal. After considerable red tape, I was able to transfer into the Air Corps for Air Cadet Training. I was sent to Sheppard Field, Texas, for a few weeks and then on to the Univ. of Minn., where, in 5 months training I was to acquire the foundation for the more advanced Air Cadet Training. After 5 months of hard and extensive study, I completed the college course with the prescribed 10 hours flying when the maelstrom of military events that occurred last March changed the Air Cadet Training Program. Several thousand cadets who had previous ground force training and had transferred into the Air Corps were sent back to the ground forces for the convenience of the government. There were a lot of us terribly disappointed because we knew then we would never get the wings we looked forward to and worked so hard for. There are many of us who look with longing and a great deal of envy at those planes that pass overhead. I am certain that most of the men feel as I do, that the government’s decision was vitally essential to the war effort. And all of us, I am sure, are willing to make personal sacrifices to bring about a speedy victory. About 325 aviation students left the University of Minnesota last April and were sent to an infantry camp in Wisconsin. After several months of rigorous training we were sent to a Port of Embarkation and at the present time we are stationed in England. It has taken me nearly a week to adjust myself to land again after that boat ride. The ocean was rough in places and I confess that I was plenty seasick the first 3 days of the voyage. I find that England is not unlike the stories written home by those who have preceded me. The English mannerisms and mode of living is a great deal like our own, but in many respects just the opposite. I always seem to be running into a Britisher on the streets and I find myself in an awkward position many times when we try to pass each other on the same side of the street. I have found the English very courteous and kind in every respect; making our stay here much easier. Since my arrival here I have came to realize the importance of letters from home. I wish to join with the boys over here in saying keep those letters coming our way. Mr. VALLOW, in conclusion I wish to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for the Kinmundy paper. It means a lot to me and I hope to repay you for your kindness in the near future. Best wishes for the holiday season and may happiness by yours through the coming year.

- This one is really not a letter but a little story written by Pvt. Erschel JENKINS, who is now in Holland. He entitles this "My Life in an Ordnance Evacuation". Here it is: A lazy fog was overhead, it was around the middle of the month of July. I, along with many soldiers strained my eyes for our first glimpse of France. The crossing had been calm and very foggy. The watch of our L.S.T. really had a job as at that time many mines were floating in the waters. Every box with an odd shape, we steered around. Soon land was sighted; a sailor who had been there many times volunteered the information that we were looking at the Cherbourg Peninsula. We dropped anchor along with the other ships in the convoy and the next morning around noon we ran our ship into the sandy beach. That afternoon at 2:30 when the tide had gone out sufficiently for us to disembark, the doors or mouth of the L.S.T. swung open and out of it passed vehicles of all types loaded down with men and baggage. I and the vehicle I was driving was among the last as the light vehicles were elevated to the top deck. Off we rolled in the sandy beaches. Here was a knocked out German 88 on one side. Barbed wire entanglements were only a few weeks before; many a man had shed his blood so we, the other thousands of other men, could land in France. Yes, we saw our first battlefield, where the beginning of the end of Germany started. On we rolled inland for a few miles, there we pulled off into a field to rest or eat as we could not go to our area except under darkness. Our vehicles were camouflaged and then about all the boys ate their K rations that were issued in England and if I remember correctly they tasted damn good. It was then some time before midnight we started on our way. It was really a hard blackout trip. I got the headache so I asked my buddy, Bob LANGFORD, to take over. The roads were a mess, as they had torn up things for miles and the roads were dusty and rough. Everyone was a little jittery because all round us was gun flashes and the sound of battle. That night I saw the flashes and heard planes roaring and flares falling. For the first time in my life after near 2 years in the army, the day had come - D-Day. After a nerve racking 7 hours, we reached our area. It wasn’t far, but as I said before, the French roads were not made for vehicles such as we have, especially the roads of Normandy. We set to work and put up our tents and then the shovel I had started to use, of course, a foxhole. A night or so passed then we were awakened by a (Jerry) German plane that came over regular to see what he could see, of course, it was a recon plane, but the AA didn’t bother to shoot as it would give our positions away. Anyway, we called him Bed Check Charlie, for the name we all figured, was best. Anyway my tent was pitched where I could roll right in my foxhole. We were in earnest, our practice was in the past. From day to day we saw the ruins of battle vehicles strewn along the roads and bomb and shell craters everywhere. We went thru the town of Volognes where nothing but shells of buildings were left. It is one of the most destructed towns I’ve seen in that vicinity to date. I couldn’t say that because Aachen has the record and some seem to think St. Lo. We were in the vicinity of the town of Bricquebec which you have known from the news of the past. The conquest of Cherbourg was over. We at this time, weeks ago can’t say when, but will tell you later we controlled the whole peninsula. After a few days of rain our enormous tank movers were sticking all over the orchard. Some of the boys sat in the old orchard on the first Sunday sitting on their helmets with their guns and gas masks by their side. After a few days rain, we moved to another apple orchard. Normandy is nothing but orchards and little fields. The people back there then were not too friendly as they had not fared so badly under the German. They finally warmed up to us and cognac and hard cider was produced by most of them, especially if they thought they might get a few cigarettes. We some times were given fresh eggs by many. Anyway the eggs were darn good compared to the C or K rations that we were getting. From this vicinity I often had runs into Cherbourg and Barneville. Cherbourg is a quaint old city of narrow streets built upon the bluffs over looking the sea. Here we saw the evidence of our Naval bombardments. They had done a good job and deserve much credit for the quick victory of Cherbourg. At Barneville was a large resort area along the sea. A Red Cross club was soon set up and we enjoyed many good baths in the sea. Salt water, as you know, doesn’t clean one too well, but we felt much better. In Bricquebec the public showers of a hotel was turned over to the Americans to use free. Here I had my first hot shower in France for about a month. In a few days after a big break through on July 25 we left Normandy for Brittany and was bivouacked in the vicinity of Fourgeres. Here we had a good area in a large timber. On our way to this area we experienced our first flower tossings and the people lining the roads with bottles of wine and cider waving their hands. We were moving otherwise, I am afraid there would have been some or many tipsy soldiers. Fourgeres was wrecked, the people seemed to not be certain whether the (Boche) Germans or Americans did it. Not many of the homes were left there for the people to come back to. One unforgettable sight was a house completely torn in half as if one had taken a saw to divide it for a show purpose. The bath tub and stool in the bathroom, table and a chair, bed and dresser were in sight along with a portion of the kitchen. Rain had blown in upon it for many days. They were lucky because many couldn’t find a piece of their stuff. We were not far from a little lake that was made into a (W.P.) Water Point. Again we took our baths below it. The first thing we looked for was a place to bathe as the roads were so dusty when dry. Mortain had not fallen then and the Germans were trying to cut us off from Normandy. It was useless as they soon found out. By this time we knew we were here to stay. Before we moved from that area, the people were returned to Foureres on wagons and carts pulled by donkeys or behind bicycles - people had all their worldly possessions. Many times the animal had all he could pull and the family wearily trudged along beside. The next city of any size that we moved close to was Lo Mans. The smaller towns around where we were camped had not felt the arm of war like the larger places. This time we were closed to a river. Here we got to swim a lot. It happed to be quite warm there. Le Mans is a nice city. It is one of the prettiest I have ever seen. They had some of the prettiest flower bed arrangements around the monuments in town of any place that I’ve ever seen. One was a sundial with each section a different color flower. Le Mans was off the limits so I didn’t see too much except going through after rations. Only the area around the rail road yards seemed to be damaged the most. It was through here on the Brest and Paris Railroad many Americans traveled during the last war or I may say World War I. It was not long until we moved again. The tanks we haul must reach where they are need quickly. Many of the crews have delivered tanks in areas under direct enemy fire and we would bring them back for repairs. With a system like ours, we couldn’t hardly loose and I say we are bound to win any war. We moved in the vicinity of Fountainebleau which is on the Seine River only 45 miles from Paris. When I say vicinity I mean it was the closest town of any size. It was here we first met the type of people that France is noted for. They dressed in the best clothes and enjoyed spending their evenings at the famous side walk cafes, which, I have heard so much about. Fountainebleau is a town of much historical interest. Here the castles of many Kings of France stands. It is the second largest in Europe. I spent a part of one afternoon in going through it. It has the harp of Josephine, Napoleon’s wife and his bed only 5 feet long and all the various paintings, etc. Oh yes, the wine the French make I first heard was the best but it didn’t taste too good. The champagne is excellent. It sells for 8 to 10 dollars a quart. It all depends on how much lingo you can talk. Most of us went to Paris for a day; our commanding officer wanted us all to have the memory of Paris to take home with us. Paris is undescribable. It would take a month to see it all. I went up the Eiffel Town, saw Notre Dame, The Arch of Triumph, and many other things that brought great interest. I thought the clothing, I mean hats our women wore were fantastic, but you should see what the women look like here with such odd looking hats. How they dress so well, no I don’t know, but as one English speaking Frenchman said, "they spend their last franc on their clothes." The girls are beautiful but can’t beat the American girls. I guess it is due to several things. If I could understand their words it would be easier to like them, is my opinion. Yes, Paris is the city of cities, it is nice and we Americans got a very warm reception there. It was about a week after it’s liberation. We have left all of that behind and it is just a memory now. Things are much different here in Holland, but I have seen some beautiful places in Luxembourg and Belgium, such as forest trees planted in rows, they however were tall pines. Holland I always thought was one windmill after another, but I’ve only seen one and again this is all in the past. Aachen is nothing but a city that will take many years to be the same. Believe me, if we do them all that way on the road to Berlin, they will surely think twice before the so-called Master Race raises it’s self toward war again. Well, the rest must wait for another day to be told. Perhaps the end is not far off. Naturally, we all want to get home but a lot remains to be finished here and in the Pacific. Let us hope the Japs fall soon after the Jerries.

- Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS, residing south of this city, received a telegram from the War Dept. Monday stating that their son, Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, had been seriously wounded in Germany on Dec. 18. No further word has reached the family.

- In the Priest’s Parlor of the Holy Family Catholic Church in St. Louis on Jan. 2 occurred the wedding of Miss Jean VALLOW to PFC Lavern KEEN. Attendants were Miss Patsy SNOW of East St. Louis, a cousin to the bride, and Cpl. James W. PIGG, a close friend to both the bride and groom. The bride’s father was present as well as 10 intimate friends. A reception was held at the Casino Club afterwards. The bride is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.B. VALLOW of this city, and is a graduate of the local high school with the class of ‘43. For the past year and a half, she has been employed in the offices of the Missouri-Pacific Railroad Co. in St. Louis as file clerk. The groom is grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene KEEN of this city. For the past 2 years he has served in the armed forces of the United States. At the present time he is attached to the Airborne Infantry. Prior to his induction into the army he was employed as a machinist in the Rock Island Arsnel. The bride will resume her work in St. Louis and the groom will proceed to Ft. Meade, Md. where he will be stationed a short time.

- Andrew JONES died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Chas. PLOWMAN, in Mattoon on Friday after suffering a stroke on Tuesday previous at his home in this city. Services were held in Mattoon with interment in Paxton Ill. cemetery. He was 77 years old and had made his home in Kinmundy for the past 5 years. He leaves a wife, Mrs. Dora JONES of Mattoon; 4 daughters, Mrs. Osie PLOWMAN of Mattoon; Mrs. Faye ROBIN of Oak Lawn; Mrs. Zetta SNYDER of Detroit, Mich.; Mrs. Ida MANN of Oak Lawn; 2 sons, Errett of Los Angeles, Cal., and Paul of Detroit, Mich.; 4 grandchildren; 1 sister, Mrs. Abbie WILKINSON of Kankakee and 1 brother, Charles, of Centralia.

- Tec 5 and Mrs. Guin VALLOW returned to Battle Creek, Mich. yesterday.

- In Memoriam of our dear husband and father, Noah THOMAS, who died Jan. 12, 1942. Mrs. Allie THOMAS and children.

- The remains of Miss Mae SCHERMERHORN, who died in San Francisco, Cal., Dec. 28, arrived here last night on the I.C. Train and was taken to the home of her sister, Mrs. John A. BROOM near Alma. Services will be held from the Alma Methodist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery in this city. - Meacham: Virgil BURKETT S1 c returned to San Francisco, Cal. Wednesday for reassignment after spending his furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank BURKETT.

- Pleasant Grove: Several neighbors and friends called at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Guy SHAFFER on New Year’s night to spend a few hours with Lt. and Mrs. John SHAFFER as they were leaving the next morning to go back to army duties. The time was pleasantly spent in viewing pictures which John showed of different places, parks, views he had taken in natural colors. The time passed all too soon to bid them good-bye.

- Meadow Branch: Pvt. Chas. BERRY returned to his camp in Oklahoma Monday after a 15 day furlough with relatives.

- Green Ridge: Pvt. Merle HEADLEY, who has served 32 months overseas, has a 30 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edd HEADLEY. There will be a chili supper and wiener roast for him at the home of her sister, Mrs. Jessie DOUDERA, on Jan. 18th. Everyone is invited.

- Lt. and Mrs. Ralph DAY of Florida visited his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY near Alma.

- T. Sgt. Francis G. SULLENS, who is home on furlough, after spending 15 months in the Southwest Pacific and parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.E. SULLENS of Alma, were dinner guests of the C.W. WARREN’s Wednesday.

- Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS has returned home after spending several weeks in Hartford, Ill. with her daughter, Mrs. J.H. BACKENSTO and family.

- Cpl. Donald PARRISH arrived home Tuesday for furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.S. PARRISH.

- Cadet Annette VALLOW of St. Louis spent Sunday with homefolks.

Jan. 18, 1945:

- Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS, Died in Belgium December 19th: Again the horrors of war has descended upon our community and taken from us another young man whom we had hoped would again take his place in civilian life after this affair was over. Last week we announced that Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS had been seriously wounded in Germany on Dec. 18th. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS, received that word from the War Dept. on Monday of last week. Since that time, they had built up hope that they would receive some word direct from him telling him of his wounds and for them not to worry that everything was going to be alright. But that letter never came. On Monday evening of this week, the parents received another message from the War Dept. stating that Sgt. Harold died in Belgium from wounds on Dec. 19th. This was a mighty hard blow to this good family as well as to the whole community. The father has been in ill heath the past fall and winter having suffered an attack of undulant fever. He has sold off most of his livestock but tried to hold on to just enough so his son would have enough to start farming with when he returned. Big plans had been made for his return just the same as any parents make for their boys. But when word like this is received, all plans are null and void and one does not know which way to turn. We think we know just how these good people feel and everyone in the community are extending their deepest sympathy. Harold William, son of Fred W. and Dora STOCK KLEISS, was born Aug. 17, 1917, on the present homestead south of Kinmundy. He attended grade school at Wilson School and was graduated from High School with the class of ‘35. During his high school career and after finishing high school, he engaged in farming and was pronounced one our leading young farmers. He was inducted into the armed services on July 7, 1942, sailed overseas on Oct. 14, 1944, was a member of the Field Artillery, Field Survey Section. When he sailed overseas, he held the rank of Corp., but soon afterwards was advanced to Sergeant. Besides his parents, he leaves a twin sister, Helen, and older sister, Mildred, both at home and an aged grandmother, Mrs. Frank KLEISS, of Pesotum. An older brother, Merle, a twin to Mildred, died in infancy. Harold was certainly a good boy and a likeable lad He made friends wherever he went. He was a very devout boy, being raised in the Catholic faith, from which he never swerved. He was a member of St. Philomena’s Catholic Church of this city. Being such a good Christian lad, makes the grief much easier to bear. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Memorial services will be held Jan. 22 in St. Philomena’s Catholic Church for Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS who died from wounds received in Germany. Kinmundy Post No. 519 will sound taps. The family requests no flowers, please. All places of business are asked to close at 9:30 and remain closed until after the services.

- Elno and Harvey BROWN were called to Danville, Wednesday, on account of the serious illness of their brother, Arthur, who underwent an operation for ulcers of the stomach.

- Mr. and Mrs. F.A. MOTCH left Tuesday for the state of Washington to visit several days with their son, Richard, who is expecting to go overseas soon. Richard is with the Navy.

- Lois NELMS ROBB, eldest daughter of John H. and Jessie HEATON NELMS, was born in Kinmundy, Sept. 11, 1893, and died in St. Anthony’s Hospital, Effingham, Jan. 9, 1945. She grew to womanhood in Kinmundy and was graduated of the local high school with the class of ‘15, the second member of this class to pass away. On June 26, 1915, she married John ROBB, and they had 2 sons: Major John ROBB, now somewhere in China, and PFC Howard ROBB, now somewhere in the South Pacific. This couple farmed until 1933, when Mr. ROBB received the appointment of Highway Patrolman under the late Gov. HORNER. This position he held until his death on Oct. 7, 1936. She grieved the loss of her husband very much, which attributed considerably to her failing health She was also preceded in death by her mother and brother, Howard. She was a member of the Christian Church of this city, Kinmundy chapter of O.E.S., and Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Danville, Ill. Besides her 2 sons, she leaves: a daughter-in-law, Mrs. John ROBB, Highland Park, Ill.; 2 grandchildren; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.H. NELMS of Kinmundy; a brother, Charles E. NELMS of Peoria; a sister, Mrs. Martha CRAIG of Danville; 2 step-sisters, Mrs. Hallie COMBS of Springfield, and Mrs. Hazel SIEMER of Kinmundy; and a step-brother, Harry F. DENNIS of Louisville, Ill. Services were held from the Christian Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Virgil BURKETT left Saturday for California to resume his duties on a destroyer.

- Mr. and Mrs. H.J. CLINEBELL and family of Springfield, and Mr. and Mrs. H.W. WHITTENBURG and family of Madisonville, Ky., recently visited with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. WHITTENBURG, and helped their father celebrate his 85th birthday.

- Frances SULLENS and Sonny SULLENS are enjoying a furlough with their families in Alma, after serving 19 months in the Southwest Pacific with the Marines.

- Martha SWIFT GORDON was born March 11, 1870, 3 miles west of Kinmundy. The early part of her left was spent around Kinmundy. For the past 20 years, she has lived in Decatur. She was a member of the U.B. Church there. She had 8 children, 3 dying in infancy. Those surviving are 4 daughters and a son: Mrs. Clella WAINSCOTT of this city; Mrs. Nellie ADAMS of Decatur; Mrs. Pearl RUDELL of Salem; Mrs. Imogene PEER of Decatur; and Harry MANION of Lansing, Mich.; 3 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. She died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Clella WAINSCOTT in Kinmundy on Jan. 12, 1945. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Sandy Branch Cemetery.

- Barbara Ann, daughter of Milton and Zeva ORCUTT of 107 E. Bradley in Champaign, was born June 6, 1944, and died Jan. 8, 1945. She leaves, besides her parents,; 1 brother, Milton Jr., aged 4; 1 sisters, Bonnie Jean, age 2; her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. G.F. ORCUTT of Champaign, formerly of Kinmundy; and A.P. ELLIOTT of Spickard, Mo.; and 1 great-grandfather, W.H. ORCUTT of Champaign, also formerly of Kinmundy. Services were held at the MacMillan funeral parlor in Champaign. Barbara Ann died of pneumonia after 2 weeks illness.

- Lt. and Mrs. John MARTIN have a daughter, Judith Leet, born in West Frankfort Hospital Jan. 6. The baby’s mother is formerly Virginia WILKINSON, granddaughter of Mrs. Prudence WILKINSON. Lt. MARTIN is now overseas.

- The 115th General Hospital, England: Wounded while organizing his platoon for an assault on a small town near Metz, France, Technical Sergeant Ralph W. SIMER, 34 of East St. Louis, Ill., is recovering at this United States Army general hospital in England. "Sgt. SIMER, who is under treatment for a compound fracture of the left clavicle bone, is making satisfactory progress, and probably be sent back to the United States for further treatment" said the Ward Surgeon. He has received the purple heart. The action in which Sgt. SIMER was wounded took place near a small town between Metz and Thionville. "After 40 hours of continuous fighting to overcome Nazi fortified positions," said Sgt. SIMER, "our company was preparing for the assault on a small town. As platoon sergeant, I was moving my group into position. The enemy opened fire on us and in moving from squad to squad to organize the unit for attack, a German sniper shot me. I believe our men finally got him. Sgt. SIMER said that German mortar fire was so heavy, he had to seek cover about 200 yards away after he was wounded. After treatment at other hospitals in France, he was evacuated to England by plane. Sgt. SIMER, in the army since July 6, 1942, came overseas with a Division. His unit was in the push thru the Maginot Line, in the Moselle River crossing and in the fighting for Metz. His wife, Mrs. Armethia SIMER, resides at the Columbia place address and is a supervisor at the Christian Welfare Hospital in E. St. Louis. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.M. SIPES, reside southeast of Kinmundy. A brother, Pvt. James SIPES, is with the Air Force at Sioux Falls, Iowa. Before entering the army, Sgt. SIMER was employed as a yardman for the Cassidy Southwest Commission Co, National Stock Yards, Illinois. He is a graduate of Salem High School, Salem, Ill.

- Here’s a nice letter from Thomas Leroy GREEN, S1 c, who is stationed in Pearl Harbor. Here is what he says: I think it about time I was writing you and telling you thanks a million for sending al the boys from good old Kinmundy the paper, while we are away and don’t know all that’s going on around there, so thanks a lot for the good work and keep it up. I know all the others that get the paper appreciate it as much as I do even though the news is old when we get it. I just hope we can get back and thank you in person instead of trying to write letters. Letters are O.K. until the censors get in the mood to do a little clipping out of them, then that is tough. I can’t say very much but will tell you what I can. Even though I am supposed to be in the Navy, I’m what you would call a good dry land sailor. I’m assigned to a unit that works on the good solid terra firma. A medical unit in fact. We haven’t seen any action yet, but our time is coming. It may confuse you just like it does me but we are wearing Marine uniforms and attached to the Marines. So I really don’t know whether to call myself a sailor or Marine. We are having the best weather for winter I ever saw. It’s weather just about like July in Illinois and every thing is green and the flowers, well a lot of the women around there would give a lot to have to have a few of them in their front yard. Also some nice big insects you call mosquitoes, but to us they are dive bombers. We go swimming all the time out here in the Pacific to keep cool. I can’t think of any more to say even though I haven’t said much of anything, so will close for this time hoping to be back and see all of you some day. Good luck to all of you and thanks again for the paper. Will be glad to hear from any one who wants to write me a few lines. Oh yes, one more thing before I close. I read a letter John JEZEK wrote that he hadn’t seen anyone from home so I will tell you just how lucky I am. I haven’t been stationed any where yet that I haven’t run across some one I knew from home. Saw Kenny JACKSON in Texas; my cousin, L.E. GREEN in Cal.; and now out here I ran across Emmit GARRETT. So I guess I am just a lucky fellow. All for now, will see you before many months.

- Swift School: Pearle GARRETT spent Tuesday with her aunt, Emma ARNOLD.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and daughter spent Sunday in Kinmundy at the Bert GARRETT home.

- Swift School: Pvt. Harold CHANCE returned to camp last Friday and his brother, James, also left the same day to be inducted into the army.

- Swift School: Frank JONES and wife received word this week that theirs son, Cecil, had left overseas duty.

- Swift School: Mrs. Mildred WELSH and Leta ATKINS visited Sunday with Mrs. Harold ROBB and daughter.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Elsworth CHANDLER and 2 daughters of Weston visited from Thursday until Sunday here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT.

- Pleasant Grove: Pvt. Roy MILLER has returned to Texas, where he took his basic training.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. E.G. DILLON and Mr. and Mrs. E.W. SOLDNER and Charles attended the funeral held in Alma Thursday for Miss Mae SCHERMERHORN.

- Meacham: Mrs. Carroll ALLEN went to Camp Knox, Ky. to visit a few days last week with her husband, who is stationed there.

- Prairie Grove: Dr. WALKER was called Wednesday to see Mrs. Minnie COURSON. She is suffering with appendicitis, and is reported improving.

- Shriver School: Edd ATTERBURY has received word that their son, Sam, is missing in action. He was with Gen. PATTON’s Army.

- Swift School (from last week): Pvt. Harold CHANCE of Kansas is spending his furlough with his parents, C.S. CHANCE and family and other relatives.

- Swift School (from last week): Pvt. Paul MONTGOMERY left for a camp in California Tuesday. His wife accompanied him as far as St. Louis and returned home Wednesday.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER, Janet and Donn of Sumner, called on her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wes ROBB, Saturday afternoon.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Esta ROBB spent Tuesday with Mrs. Velma ROBB and Sharon Fay at the O.M. CONANT home.

- Buddy ROBNETT, James HALL, and James CHANCE left Friday night for Chicago where they were inducted into the army.

- Mrs. Effie ROBB returned home last Wednesday from Hammond, Ind. where she had spent 3 weeks with her son, Forrest DOOLEN and family.

Jan. 25, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Pvt. Ralph JENKINS, dated Dec. 27, and written somewhere in Belgium. Here is what he says: Well, here I am once more and this time from Belgium. Just got caught up with all my correspondence and so thought I would drop my editor a few lines to let you know a little about the country of Belgium. The first thing I want to tell you is this spot where we are located is very beautiful. It looks as though it was a summer resort of some kind and there is a monastery here and it is operated like people running some kind of a large establishment and the people who run it are monks. They are supposed to be very religious people. This place is real old; lots of it is over a thousand years old. It has real old antique monuments of the kings and queens of different countries. It is very nice to visit and we wouldn’t have had a chance, but we moved close to it so they gave us permission to go and see it. Well, Norris, how is everything around the old hometown. Suppose it practically the same. Suppose you around home are getting over the holidays by now. Well, we had turkey Christmas Eve and also had it again for chow tonight. We got 300 lbs. of turkey and we had 2 delicious meals. One thing about this company we have some swell cooks and that’s something most companies can’t say. Well, Norris, I haven’t got a paper for quite some time. I guess it has been around 2 months. I guess our mail must be held up some place because our letters are not coming thru the way they should Of course they have difficulties at times over here, which, I expect you know without me telling you. Here is hoping I get some good old papers soon. Makes no difference if they are a month old, they will be something to read and to tell you the truth, I would give anything to have some news from home. Got a V-Mail tonite from a friend back home and it was the first in almost a week. Most of us have received our Christmas packages but, of course, we have more coming but they are held up some place, I guess. Well, how does the news sound like back home? Do most people think the war will end soon or not? We listen to the news now and then and to tell you the truth from what I’ve seen, I don’t see how the Jerries can hold out much longer and here’s hoping they don’t as I am ready for the good old U.S.A. I have often wondered how it is going to seem to step off the gang-plank in New York or somewhere. Well, Norris, don’t know much more, so will close for to night and go to bed. So here’s hoping to receive some good old Kinmundy papers before long.

- Here’s a nice letter, dated Jan. 6, from Sgt. John D. PURCELL, who is now in Philippines. He doesn’t say just what he is doing but we can imagine. Here is what he says: This must be a great surprise to you to receive a letter from this G.I. Well, I have enjoyed your paper for a long time, especially the Boys letters and your Zatso column, and I haven’t contributed a bit to it. I started getting the paper again about Christmas time; the issues ranged from Sept. to Nov. 23, which, I received yesterday. Especially after no news for so long a time, I’m reading every line. I take this opportunity to thank you for the splendid job you are doing in sending the paper to all of we boys. Well, I know of no other way to attempt a letter of interest than to briefly review the past 2 years of my army life. I entered the service in Oct. ‘42, and to a great extent against my desire, but I had received my greetings. I soon found myself on the west coast and as time went by the army didn’t seem to be such a bad place; and now I’m in such rut, I hardly know any better. The first year and a half was spent up and down the west coast from Seattle to San Diego, getting training which, we thought at the time, very impractical. During this time I got my share of the furloughs for which I’m thankful now. We began to think our part in the war was going to be slight and we weren’t exactly complaining either. But when things began to happen, we weren’t slow. We left the states in July and spent some time in Hawaii, we went to Honolulu quite often, but were somewhat disappointed. It didn’t seem to be the beautiful place that I had pictured. Even Waikiki Beach didn’t equal some in the states. Although I must admit it would be a great change with the innumerable G.I.’s off the streets, and one vacationing there with more charming company. But we didn’t stay there long because October found us in the Philippines. After seeing some of the headlines of papers at about that time, I believe you can tell me a lot about what happened here. Ha! Ha! But now the roar of guns has ceased and we are taking things a little quieter and easier. The rains here have been terrific. It only rained a few inches yesterday. But this morning I am basking in the sunshine, while dreaming of thoughts of home. I am glad to see the Overseas Rotation Plan beginning to bring some results. I was very happy to learn that my good friend, Dale BROOM, was home on leave. "Red" HAMMER is another that deserves move liberty than he received and I have seen where others that I am not personally acquainted with got home after long years overseas. I have been much concerned about the German front recently, especially because my brother, Carl, is back on that front again. Here is hoping that our final victories may come soon with the cost of lives light, and that we may return to our homes and loved ones in ‘45. Well, I must not take too much of your time. If all of you will keep the home front going just a little longer we will soon be there to relieve you. So long for now and keep your chin up.

- Miss Clarabelle HUGGINS, daughter of Mrs. E.C. HUGGINS of Cerro Gordo, and George W. MORTLAND, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.M. MORTLAND of Farmer City, were married Sunday at the home of Mrs. Francis STEVENS HUGGINS of Bloomington. Mrs. HUGGINS is sister-in-law of the bride. Attendants were Miss Jean HOFFMAN of Mansfield, and Richard CRUMBAUGH of Leroy. The bride graduated from LeRoy H.S., and Illinois State Univ. with the class of ‘41. Since graduation, she has been an instructor of English in the Cerro Gordo Twp. H.S. She will finish the present school term before joining her husband. Mr. MORTLAND is a graduate of LeRoy H.S. and for the last 5 years has been stationed in the Hawaiian Islands doing radio work for the Civil Aeronautics administration of the Dept. of Commerce. At the present time he is located in Cal. at the San Francisco Municipal Airport.

- Relatives have received word here stating the Pvt. Charles DISS was permitted to spend a 3 day pass the last 3 days in the old year, with his aunt, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, who is stationed in a Base Hospital in Belgium.

- Arthur E. BROWN, the son of Harvey and Arminda HOWELL BROWN, was born in Marion Co., Kinmundy, Ill., Jan. 13, 1892, where he resided until he was the age of 19. He married Jessie MERCER after which they made their home near Cartter, Ill. They had 6 children, 3 sons and 3 daughters: Arthur J. Mercer, Harvey, Nellie, Martha, and Margaret. Some time after the death of his wife, Jessie MERCER BROWN, he was united in marriage to Jessie FINN. To this union was born 1 child, a daughter, who preceded her father in death. Some time after the death of his daughter, Jessie Alice, this marriage expired, after which he made his home in Danville, Ill. He married to Dencie REED in 1938, and they resided in Danville, Ill. Other than his wife and children, he leaves his mother, Mrs. Arminda BROWN, 3 brothers, Harvey, Elnoe and Willard, and 2 sisters, Rochelle and Harriett. He was 53 years and 6 days of age. He was a member of the First Church of Christ. His 3 sons are all in the service of the United States Army overseas. Services were held in Danville, with short services also held at Linton Funeral Home in Kinmundy. Interment was in Evergreen Cemetery in Kinmundy.

- Miss Mae SCHERMERHORN, daughter of A.V. and Belle SCHERMERHORN, formerly of Kinmundy, was born in St. Louis, Mo. on April 14, 1883. She moved to a farm near Kinmundy with her parents in 1886, where she resided until 1904. During this time she spent 1 year at the Univ. of Ill. After 1 year of employment in Aurora, Ill., she went to Seattle, Wash. in 1905. While there she resided with her brother, Frank. She was employed by the dept. stores of that city, being employed by one for 16 years. She later accepted a better position in Los Angeles, remaining there for a year. Then she moved to San Francisco, where she resided until her death. Previous to her employment there, she was a buyer of goods for her dept. In spite of failing health in the past few years, she has worked harder and longer than ever before. When the Air Raid Warning Service started in San Francisco, she immediately volunteered and gave over 100 hours of her time to that service. This was aside from her duties in the Fur Dept. of the Emporium, where she was employed. She was very devoted to her mother and made frequent trips back to Illinois to visit her. She died Dec. 28, 1944 at the Stanford-Lane Hospital in San Francisco. Services were held at Halsted Funeral Home. The body was brought back to Illinois by her brother, Earnest and wife, who had been at her bedside. Services were held at Alma Methodist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery in Kinmundy. She is survived by her mother; 2 brothers, Frank of Seattle, Wash.; and Ernest of Ridgefarm, Ill.; 2 sisters, Mrs. J.A. BROOM of Alma; and Mrs. J.C. BROOM of Linton, Ind.; also 20 nephews and nieces.

- Sgt. John Howard HELM arrived here Sunday morning wearing 5 gold bars on the left sleeve of his blouse, each bar representing 6 months service overseas. Sgt. HELM has spent these 30 months in the Southwest Pacific with the Field-Artillery. He can tell you lots about Hawaii, Gaudacanal, New Britain, New Guinea, as well as several of the small islands in the Theater of War. He is now making the best of his 21 days delay enroute. As he stepped from the train Sunday morning, he was greeted by his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Marion HELM, as well as several friends, who needless to say, are very happy over his arrival home. And of course Howard is happy about the whole affair also. He looks a little fatigued, and carries a nice coat of tan. He says the weather here is much different to what he has been accustomed to. Sgt. HELM is enroute to Miami Beach, Fla., where he will be reassigned. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Earl MORRIS, of Marshall, Ill., but formerly of this city, received a card Friday bearing the name of Edgar MORRIS, Mus 2 c, with the following: "Dear Folks: Am quite well. Health good. In happy spirits. Please don’t worry. Am thinking of you always. Inform friends. Love, Edgar." The parents stated that it was not Edgar’s handwriting but they believed it to be authentic because as well as some Japanese writing, it also bore the number of an U.S. censor. There was no date on the card. It will be remembered that Edgar was reported missing about 3 years ago with the sinking of the U.S.S. Houston. Since receiving this card, his parents believe him to be a prisoner of the Japs.

- Memorial services were held Monday in St. Philomena’s Church in this city, in honor of Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, who died of wounds in Belgium on Dec. 19. A list of those participating in the services, as well as those attending from a distance was included.

- In the Zatso column, Mr. VALLOW talks about the death of Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, and how close he was to their family.

- Pleasant Grove: A pie supper will be held at the town house in Brubaker Feb. 1. Proceeds are to be used to purchase a piano for the Town House as the organ is in very bad condition. The public is invited.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS called on Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL Sunday evening.

- Omega: Lawrence VANDEVEER of the U.S. Air Corps, was here last week visited his brother, Sherrill and family.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN were called to Salem Tuesday to see Mrs. GREEN’s mother, Mrs. Gertrude WADE at Salem Hospital. She was badly burned when a coal oil range caught fire at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Glen ROBB.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY and son, Darrell Gene, Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae, and Helen and Evelyn BASSETT spent Sunday in Kinmundy at the Bert GARRETT home.

- Swift School: Guy ARNOLD and R.H. GREEN attended the funeral of Arthur BROWN at Linton’s Funeral Home, Monday.

- Mrs. Gertrude WADE, who is making her home in Salem with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Glen ROBB, was painfully burned Tuesday while lighting a kerosene stove. She was burned about the face and arms and was taken to the hospital immediately, where it will be necessary for her to remain a few weeks. The burns are not pronounced serious, but are very painful.

- Ensign Orval SPURLIN has been promoted to Lieutenant junior grade in the Navy in the New Guinea area, where he has been serving on an LCT craft. He is now awaiting a new assignment. He is son of Mr. and Mrs. W.T. SPURLIN of Vandalia.

- Mr. and Mrs. George FORD are the proud parents of a baby girl born in the Greer Hospital last week.

- Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL have received word that their son, PFC Albert, has been promoted to the rank of Corporal. He is stationed in Boise, Idaho.

- S. Sgt. and Mrs. Dwight HANNA and daughter, Jynetha Jane, after a 2 weeks furlough with their parents, Dr. and Mrs. H.L. HANNA are leaving today for a couple of days visit with S. Sgt. HANNA’s sister, Mr. and Mrs. Roy KNABE of Mt. Vernon, enroute to their home in El Paso, Texas. On Sunday morning, several of the HANNA family attended worship service at the Methodist Church and also witnessed the christening of S. Sgt. and Mrs. Dwight HANNA’s baby daughter, and Sgt. and Mrs. Robert HANNA’s son, Billie. (Sgt. Robert HANNA is stationed somewhere in the Netherlands East Indies). Also Audrey HULTS, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wallace HULTS, was baptized. The 3 children being grandchildren of Dr. H.L. HANNA.

Feb. 1, 1945:

- Lt. Kenneth S. LACEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton LACEY, and husband of Mrs. Betty Jane LACEY of Vandalia, recently passed a milestone in his flying career from an Eighth Air Force bomber station in England. Serving as pilot of the B-17 Flying Fortress "Lady Satan", Lt. LACEY, 23, recently completed 240 combat hours. Traversing approximately 35,000 miles, he has flown his bomber thru severe enemy opposition to drop more than 175,000 pounds of high explosives on Nazi industrial and military installations deep in Germany. Lt. LACEY entered the service in he AAF in May 1942 after graduating from Farina H.S. His father is assistant superintendent of the state penal farm in Vandalia, and his wife, Betty, lives in Vandalia. An official army communication direct to the "Vandalia Union" from England states: Lt. LACEY, who holds the Air Medal with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters for "meritorious achievement" is a member of the 452nd bomb group, a unit of the Third Air Division, the division that received a Presidential citation for its now historic England-Africa shuttle bombing of Messerchmitt aircrafts plants at Regensburg, Germany. As allied ground forces moved into Germany, the Eighth Air Force stepped up the intensity of its attacks on the Reich. The Illinois airman flew on many of these bombing assaults against the communication centers synthetic oil refineries and factories producing heavy tanks and trucks. Lt. LACEY considers an attack against synthetic oil refineries at Merseburg, Germany, to be his toughest mission. "Flak over the target knocked out 2 of our engines and we were forced to drop out of formation, throwing out all equipment not necessary to keep us airborne," he said "The other groups were beginning to pass us and soon we were trailing behind the whole armada of Fortress. Luckily for us a P 51 Mustang on the lookout for stragglers saw our predicament and escorted us home. Our ‘little friend’ left us at the English coast and when we landed, there was just enough gasoline left in our tank to fill a cigarette lighter."

- PFC and Mrs. Orval GORDON have a son born at Vandalia Hospital on Jan. 27, named Donald Arthur. Both mother and baby are doing fine. PFC GORDON arrived Monday from Texas, to be with his wife and son.

- Miss Helen ROHRBOUGH entertained at dinner Sunday at her home in Salem honoring the 82nd birthday of her father, L.C. ROHRBOUGH. Those attending were Mr. and Mrs. C.B. ROHRBOUGH and daughter, Ruth, of Kinmundy; E.H. BARENFANGER, Mr. and Mrs. E.B. KING of Champaign; and Mrs. Sue BOWMAN and Mrs. Gladys JONES of Salem.

- Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe OLDEN received a telegram yesterday evening from the War Dept. announcing that their son, PFC Bruce OLDEN, had been slightly wounded in action in Belgium. The last letter received from PFC Bruce was dated Jan. 5th, and he had just arrived in Belgium. He was a member of the 272nd Inf. Regt.

- Miss Verma Del MERCER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D.R. MERCER of Salem, and Sgt. John Howard HELM of Kinmundy were married Jan. 30 at the First Christian Church in Salem. Miss Tresa Jane McCARTY sang "Always", and Mrs. Helen Marie HAMMOND played the organ. Attendants were Miss Dorothy MERCER, sister of the bride, and Mr. M.E. HELM, father of the groom. A reception was held at the home of the bride’s parents following the ceremony. Both Sgt. and Mrs. HELM are graduates of the Kinmundy H.S. Mrs. HELM has been a beautician for the past 3˝ years. Sgt. HELM has been in the service of his country for the past 4 years. Preceding his induction he was employed by Montgomery Ward and Co. of Chicago, and attended night school at North Western University.

- Practically every egg in 210 cases bound from Farina to Tennessee spilled out on the highway at the sharp curve north of Salem yesterday. State highway dept. snowplow was called to scoop up the eggs to make further travel around the bend possible. Clarence WOOLBRIGHT, deputy sheriff, said the egg truck overturned when it started to skid at the turn. A cattle truck bound from Iola to St. Louis, also skidded and overturned behind the egg truck, crowding off the pavement a car driven by Andrew WINKS of Alma. The cattle truck overturned on top of WINKS’s car. No one was injured and the trucks were not damaged. WINKS’ car, however, was badly smashed. Cinders were spread over the pavement to improve navigation.

- After spending 28 years locked in the bank tellers cage, 10 of which was spent with the old State Bank of Kinmundy and 18 spent in the First National Bank of Kinmundy, Frank E. JONES is now free to roam the country side. He tendered his resignation to the directors of First National Bank sometime ago, with the request that it take effect on Dec. 1, last. But the directors persuaded him to stay with them until Jan. 1st and he consented. But business was so flourishing, they again asked him to remain another month, and he consented. Yesterday was his last day of service. On Dec. 1 Miss Donna MAULDING and Mrs. Norma SHREFFLER were employed as bookkeepers in the bank. For the past 2 months, these girls have been working under the supervision of Mr. JONES, and are now fully qualified to handle the books. Now that Mr. JONES is not tied down any longer, he says that he is going to do some real vacationing, right around Kinmundy.

- Mrs. Helen HOUSE was guest of honor at a stork shower given by Mrs. Frances KLINE at the home of A.H. MILLER on Jan. 20. Those attending were Norma SHREFFLER, Donna MAULDING, Jeanne BROOM, Marilyn MILLER, Florence CONANT, Marie KLINE, Virginia BROWN, Irene GAMMON, Norma MILLER, Gladys MERCER, Frances KLINE, Mrs. Chester KLINE, and Mrs. A.H. MILLER.

- A daughter was born to PFC and Mrs. B.L. HANNA, Jan. 20, in Salem Hospital named Lavern Lynn.

- Mr. and Mrs. R.W. WAINSCOTT celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary quietly at their home in Champaign with a family dinner and with relatives and friends in the afternoon. They were married in Champaign on Jan. 22, 1895, and came to Kinmundy and started farming north of town. They later moved south of town and bought a farm there. Later they built a home in town where they lived until 1923. They moved to Champaign where they have since resided. They have 7 children: Austa, Clyde, Stella, Gladys, Chester, Earl and Ellis. They have 8 grandchildren: Floyd, Leland, and Janice, children of Clyde WAINSCOTT; Ray, Martha Lee, and Rita, children of Austa WAINSCOTT; Jimmy, son of Stella LANE; Gene, son of Earl WAINSCOTT. They have 1 great-grandchild, Patricia, son of Ray WAINSCOTT. All members of the family could not be present because of the war, a son, T. Sgt. Ellis WAINSCOTT, has been overseas 15 months and has made 64 missions over Germany, having been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. Grandchildren in the service who could not be present were: Floyd, Ensign, U.S. Navy; Leland, aircraft carrier service; Jimmie, Great Lakes, U.S.N.; and Martha Lee, Supervisor of Naval Inspectors, Cincinnati, Ohio. A program of many old favorite songs were sung with piano accompaniment. Instrumental selections were played by Betty Lou, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.H. WAINSCOTT, and Gene, son of Earl WAINSCOTT. A photographer came and took pictures of the couple. A list of guests from out-of-town was included.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL received word last week that their daughter, Mrs. Ruth PIERSTORFF, was appointed director of the social services dept. at the Neurological Institute, Jan. 1 in New York City.

- East Zion (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN and son, Larry, and Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD spent Sunday in Patoka with Mr. and Mrs. John BLAKENSHIP and Mrs. Mae SIMCOX and helped Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD and Mrs. SIMCOX celebrate their birthdays.

- East Zion (from last week): Mrs. Ruth WILLIAMS spent last week in Kinmundy with her sister-in-law, Mrs. Lura ROBNETT and children.

- Shriver School (from last week): A birthday dinner party was given for Robert SMITH Saturday night with many friends and neighbors present. Games were enjoyed by the children. A list of those attending was included.

- Green Ridge: PFC Merle HEADLEY left Friday for Ft. Sheridan.

- East Zion: Word was received here of the birth of a daughter on Jan. 24 to Mr. and Mrs. Ennos DAVISON of Chicago, formerly of this community, named Joyce June.

- East Zion: Mr. James OSBORNE spent the day with his daughter, Mrs. James BASSETT.

- Meacham: Sunday being the birthday of Martin HASSEBROCK, the Community Birthday Circle went to their home with well filled baskets and gave them a surprise. 35 were present.

- Comm. Lewis J. CONANT, U.S.N. spent last night here at the J. Lem BALLANCE home enroute from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C.

- Bennie DOOLEN, AM1 c, and wife left last Friday for their home in Seattle, Wash., after spending 3 weeks with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN, and Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, near Alma.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Esta ROBB spent Thursday afternoon with Mrs. Mamie BASSETT.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Esta ROBB spent Friday with Mrs. Velma ROBB and Sharon.

Feb. 8, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Sgt. Dale BROOM, who is now stationed in Utah after serving several months overseas. He says: I am stationed here at Kearns, Utah now, about 15 miles from Salt Lake City. This is an Army Air Force, Overseas Replacement Depot. We boys who have come back from overseas duty are taking the place of the boys who haven’t been overseas. We are permanent party here. We take care of the boys passing through to go overseas. I don’t like this camp any too well, but it is in the United States and that means a lot to me. These mountains around here are sure pretty. There is a lot of skiing done around here on the mountains. Salt Lake City is a nice town. It has wide streets and there are several historical places to see here. The Mormon Temple and Salt Lake City Tabernacle are sure nice buildings. Only about half the people in Salt Lake City are Mormons. All the people in town are really friendly. It is pretty cold here and lots of snow. I guess you have had plenty of cold weather over there in Illinois too. I was sure sorry to hear about Harold KLEISS being killed in action. It must have been a shock to the whole community. It will sure be great when the war is over and all the boys come home again. There will be some who won’t be home again, but let us hope those who have died during this war will not have died in vain. The war looks pretty good now, don’t it? The Germans and Japs are sure getting a taste of their own medicine, now, aren’t they? In closing I want to say hello to the home town boys who are scattered all over the world. I will close for now.

- Here’s a nice letter from Sgt. James ELLIS, who is with a Bomber Squadron in England. Here’s what he says: Just finished the article written by Johnny BROOM. Was amused at "four years", but believe me, we’ll both be home before our beards turn gray. I, myself, have nearly that much time with a slight interlude. I was thinking about Mr. BROOM’s peach orchard one summer nearly an eternity ago when Johnny, Charles, Howard DOWNEY and I were worming Mr. BROOM’s peach tree and all the fun we had. Now it seems that it didn’t happen in our time. A reflection of my army service seems a lifetime. When I was first drafted, I wound up at Camp Roberts, Cal. in the infantry. However, the army decided I was too old so I wound at my old desk in the theater at Chicago. Pearl Harbor made a young man of me and I was quickly recalled. My outfit had already landed in Australia, so I was sent to the Chicago Recruiting and Induction Service and was placed in DEML. I spent many happy days there. The army again ended that by sending all general service men to line outfits when limited service and WACs became popular for desk jobs. I took another train ride and woke up one morning in the Tank Destroyers. I liked this very much so took an OCS test and was passed by the board and moved up 28 on the waiting list. Shortly after this my hips started to give me trouble caused by all those long hikes. I had sat in that easy chair for 10 long years, so was toughened up in the wrong places. The big boys flew over us a lot so I decided to give up my chance to be an officer. Being a lazy man, I thought I would rather ride than walk. The "Heanies" got me and I like it very much. As you all know, I am in England. I came over ahead of my crew on a boat nearly a year ago I had to wait for them. Before the rest arrived I obtained a pass and went to Coventry. When I got off the train, the first boy I saw was standing in front of me, ragged, dirty-faced, about five and was smiling. He said, "Do you fly the Heanies," I said, "Yes." That was a mistake because he would not leave me so we became friends. He got all my candy and gum. He called me "chum" as that is their favorite expression. Nothing would do but that I see his grandmother. When I started up the street hardly anything was left. Everything had been severally bombed and burned out. Even now bodies are being found and the rubbish is still being cleaned. This boy’s whole family was killed, all he had left was his grandmother, who was nearly blind and lived in a small part of a house. When the little boy told her that I was an airman, her face lit up and with a very stern bitterness, she said, "Son, give them one for us, and do it good." What little she had to eat she wanted to give me, but I just couldn’t. Already I was thinking, "what if this was my little boy and I was coming home." A lump and a bad taste came into my mouth. Later she told me that an American officer wanted to take him to the States and adopt him for he certainly was a nice shaver. I came to this base ahead of my crew, who finally caught up with me. I flew one mission before they came. One engine went out so we trailed behind over the target and back. I was wet for there was a report of bandits in the air and I really did sweat that one out. When they came we had a reunion, a few drinks, and a lot of talk. A week later we were introduced to our plane "Miss B Haven." It carried the picture of a Navajo girl back to us, one leg up, head to us smiling, for she was in the process of removing her unmentionables. She took us for many a ride. Twice our oxygen went out and we had to carry bottles in our laps. A few times we exercised our guns and flak rolled us around often. One day she was grounded and we flew a ship, "Rosie’s Sweat Box." Master Sergeants were on the flak guns that day and we came back with 28 holes, some pretty big. We all felt bad when another crew flew our ship and had to crash land it in Belgium. That was old Miss B Haven’s 65th trip. Our new ship carries the picture of my red-headed cousin in Chicago, Miss Joan KOHL and the name of it is "Strictly Kopasectic." We wanted everything O.K. always, so started on the right foot. One trip six ME-109's were on our tail. Four cued up to attack us and the other two were amusing us. Just as the four started in, a P-51 came in behind and got all four before I fired a shot. He flew by, dipped his wings and I waved back and said "Thank you" Little Friend". (They call us big friends.) When I came back and in the briefing room the flight surgeon gave me 2 shots of spirits for I was shaky but this braced me and I thought of that little boy and carried on. We were well on our way to a Happy Christmas and even obtained liquid refreshments. Jerry had hit the First Army. My brother Edward is in that outfit and had already received a Purple Heart for excellent work in the Hurtgen Forest where he twas wounded. Turkey or nothing else mattered except to help the boys. There is nothing we would rather do than help our ground boys for we can see immediate results. We were very nervous and agitated because fog was thick as pea soup and we couldn’t get up. Finally it cleared and we were going every day. We got tired as "Hell" but the next morning when the C.O. said you have another chance to help the boys, we were eager. I’m ready, always, because my brother is in there, I can still see that little English lad and his grandmother. I keep thinking of my little boy at home and I know it must be done. These Jerries are not fooling and are not playing and if we give them another chance later you can bet your bottom dollar you will see your home as I saw this English boy’s home. Regards to all you service men, wherever you are.

- Here’s a short note from PFC W.H. GREENE, Jr., who is stationed in the Hawaiian Islands. He says: I’ve intended to write and thank you for a long time. But I just never did get around to it. Thanks a lot for the paper, it sure helps to keep a fellow up with what is going on in the old neighborhood. I’m on Oahu in the Hawaiian Islands. It is nice and warm here. They raise a lot of sugar cane and pineapples here. The cane is about ready to cut now. Well, Mr. VALLOW, there is not much to write about, so will close and thanks again for the paper.

- In Memoriam of our son and brother, Billy DODSON, who died Feb. 11, 1940. Mr. and Mrs. Chas. DODSON and daughters.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ben JENKINS celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary in Lansing, Mich. with her brothers, Carl and Bryan, nephews and friends, last week.

- Mrs. J.H. NELMS received a telephone call from her daughter, Mrs. Eugene CRAIG, of Danville, Sunday, stating that Mr. CRAIG’s eldest sister, Mrs. Anna GILMORE, had died suddenly Saturday at her home in Glendale, Ariz. Mr. and Mrs. CRAIG left Monday morning to be in attendance at the funeral, which will be held there.

- Capt. Clyde B. CAMERER, U.S.N. Medical Corps, and Mrs. CAMERER arrived here Friday and visited until Sunday morning with Mrs. CAMERER’s sister, Mrs. W.S. PRUETT. They were enroute to the Great Lakes Naval Training Station to the west coast where the Captain will be assigned to overseas duty. Mrs. CAMERER will maker her home temporarily with her sister, Mrs. Minnie LOCKHART in Dunsmuir, Cal.

- Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER received a telegram from their son, Dwight GARNER, WT1 c, of the U.S.N. stating that he had arrived in San Francisco and would be sent out of there to some hospital. It will be remembered that Dwight was severely burned by steam while on his ship and for the past several months has been in a naval hospital in Honolulu.

- Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY received a telephone call from their son, PFC Lloyd BAILEY from somewhere in Massachusetts, Sunday, stating that he had arrived safely on this side and was being sent to an Army General Hospital and as soon as he was located, they would hear from him. PFC Lloyd suffered wounds in action in France and has been in England.

- William BARBEE, Cox arrived here last week to spend a 20 day leave with his mother, Mrs. Maude BARBEE. Coxswain BARBEE has been stationed in the Aleutians Islands for the past 18 months and can tell some mighty interesting experiences while there. He landed back in the States on Jan. 5th, and he was mighty glad to set foot on American soil once more. He is enjoying his leave here with his mother and other relatives but says he misses a great many of his old chums. He will leave here next week for Jacksonville, Fla., where he will be stationed for awhile.

- Several friends and relatives gathered with well filled baskets at the home of Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL, Sunday to help celebrate the birthday of Mrs. CORRELL. After enjoying the noontime meal, the afternoon was spent in visiting; also, some good instrumental was enjoyed. A list of those attending was included.

- Mrs. W.B. VALLOW has received a letter from her son, PFC Charles V. VALLOW, that he arrived safely overseas and is now in France.

- Sgt. PURCELL, Alma Lad, and PFC Darin JONES, Patoka Lad, Reported Missing in Action: Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL of Alma received word from the War Dept. Tuesday announcing that their son, Carl PURCELL, was reported missing in action on Jan. 18th in Belgium. It will be remembered that some time ago and it has not been very long since he was released from the hospital and returned to the front lines. This good family has the sympathy of the entire community and every one is hoping and praying that Carl will turn up O.K. in the near future. Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES of Patoka received word last Thursday evening from the War Dept. stating that their only son, PFC Darvin JONES, was missing in action in Germany since Jan. 5th. We certainly hope that they will soon receive word that he has turned up safe.

- Joe BORING, P.R. 1 c, son of Mr. and Mrs. John BORING, of Salem, formerly of this city, was given a medical discharge from the U.S. Navy, Jan. 5, 1945, and arrived home with his wife and baby in Kingsville, Texas, where they will make their home. Joe served on a carrier for 11 months as a parachute rigger and was in the battles of Guam and Saipan where he had a few narrow escapes. He was sent to a hospital in San Diego in September of 1944 where he remained until discharged, having served 3 years in the Navy, entering the service on Jan. 6, 1942. Joe is going to start work in the Postal Service.

- According to an official release received by this paper, Flight Officer Frederick A. PRUETT, formerly of this city, reported for duty with the 7th Ferrying Group, Ferrying Division, Air Transport Command, Great Falls, Montana on Jan. 22, 1945. He is the son of Mrs. Estella PRUETT.

- Mr. and Mrs. A.E. FIELDS of Forrest, Ill. but formerly of Omega neighborhood, have received word that their son, Carl T., was promoted to the rank of Sergeant last December. He is serving with the Marines in the Southwest Pacific.

- Wilson School: Mrs. Chris MEYER and daughter, Veda, went to Bloomington Friday to attend the funeral of Mrs. MEYER’s brother, Fred MULVANEY.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Herman SOLDNER were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL.

- Omega: Paul SEE has received word from his son, Leroy, of the U.S. Army, that he expects to be home on furlough next week.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ray SCHOOLEY received word that their son, Glenn, was somewhere in England.

- Swift School: Mrs. Edwin SHREFFLER of Kinmundy spent the weekend with Mrs. Harold ROBB and daughter.

- Swift School: Evelyn BASSETT spent Saturday night and Sunday with Wiona HANNA.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae, spent Sunday afternoon in Patoka with Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Harriett MILLER and daughter, Mary Jane, were burned on the arm Tuesday, when a can of meat she had taken out of the oven, bursted. Mary Jane also received a cut on the arm. Her brother, Ray VANDEVEER, took them to the doctor for medical aid. Mary Jane was out of school for a few days, but is back again to her studies.

- Shriver School: Mr. and Mrs. Robert SMITH and family, Carroll SIMMONS and daughter, Naomi, Nadeen CHARLTON attended the birthday party for Billy SOLDNER Sunday.

- Young School: Pvt. and Mrs. Clifford DOUTHITT and family, Mr. and Mrs. Virgil SEE and son, and Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON visited Monday at the Lyman JONES home.

- Mrs. Chas. ROBB of Decatur, is here caring for her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS, who is ill.

Feb. 15, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Kenneth LEWIS, B2 c, who is sailing the seven seas on the U.S.S. Rigel. The letter was dated Feb. 5th. Here is what he says: I feel as though I must write you and thank you for the paper. Yesterday I received my Nov. 23rd issue. They are not always that old but are always appreciated regardless of age. We are governed by censors as to what we can write. I can say that I have about the best duty over here (if there is a best.) Now I am making a broad statement in saying that but I’ve seen the conditions in the Army and Seebee’s camps and am positive this duty is healthier, cleaner, and easier. As for comparison to other ships the repair ship does not get the headlines for their heroic deed, but they can claim the honor of being the doctor ship to whom the wounded ship relies upon to be mended, whether it’s a boiler renewed or replacement of a smaller item aboard the ship, they all depend on the repair ships. Of course, we are all proud of our ships, but most of us would rather be civilians. From our news here, the hope of becoming a civilian this year is much brighter than a few months ago. The Russians are really doing the good work, but the Yanks and Tommies have been hard pushed on the Western front. Well, Mr. VALLOW, thanks again for the paper, and one other boy who lived near Kinmundy (Bob DEXTER) wishes to thank you also, as he reads my copies. Several of the boys, read Zatso, and all say it is well written.

- Here’s a short note from Cpl. Ray BAILEY, who is now in Belgium with a Railway Operations Battalion. The letter was dated Jan. 7th and was mainly to let us know that his address had changed a little. Here is what he says: I only have time to write a few lines to thank you for the paper I have been receiving regularly since I have been overseas. It is raining today on a foot of snow, it makes it very difficult. There are several of the home town boys in the same sector as I, but it is very hard to get together as we are always busy. I am looking forward to the day when we can all be home and thank you personally for your thoughtfulness.

- Mr. Virgil LIVESAY resigned his position as a driver of one of the local school buses Tuesday, to take effect immediately. The bus is now being driven by Hugo WAGONER.

- Mrs. Norma SHREFFLER and Miss Frances BAILEY spent the weekend in Kankakee with Miss Juanita BAILEY and in Chicago with Junior GARRETT, who is stationed at Great Lakes Naval Training Station.

- Mrs. J.H. BACKENSTO came Friday evening to help care for her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS, who is reported able to be up and around again. Mrs. Chas. ROBB, who has been caring for her, returned to her home in Decatur, Sunday.

- PFC Bruce OLDEN, who was wounded in action in Belgium on Jan. 13, is now a patient in a hospital in England, nursing a wound in the hip, according to a word received direct from him this week by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe OLDEN.

- Pvt. Leroy SEE, son of Paul SEE, residing southeast of this city, left Tuesday for Fort Meade, Md., after spending a week here with relatives. He received a delay enroute from Camp Wheeler, Ga. to Ft. Meade.

- Mrs. J.H. NELMS received a message Monday announcing the death of her sister, Mrs. Minnie PORTER HAMILTON, which occurred at her home in Wheeling, W. Va. Monday after an illness of several months duration. A Gold Star Mother’s Service was held at the home. Services were held from the Methodist Church in Wheeling, with interment made in the family lot beside her husband, the late Frank HAMILTON, in Frazeysburg, Ohio.

- Frank W. YEAGER, only son of Stephen W. and Julia GETTINGS YEAGER, was born on Jan. 8, 1876 at Disco, Ill., and died at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. on Feb. 6, 1945. The YEAGER home consisted of Father and Mother YEAGER, Frank, and 5 sisters, Florance, Bertha, Kate, Mabel, and Beulah, all of whom have preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Caroline ROSS YEAGER, to whom he was married March 6, 1922 at Springfield, Ill.; 2 brothers-in-law, D.J. REINERT of Denver, Colo.; Frank SMITH of Joliet, ill.; 2 nephews, Richard of Joliet and John W. SMITH, signalman of the U.S. Navy; 1 niece, Rhoda CROSSETT WILSON, wife of Lieut. Marion E. WILSON, U.S. Navy; and his aunt, Bertha R. LITTEN, who has resided in the Memphis home for many years. After marriage, they first resided at Clinton, Ill. from where they moved to Memphis, Tenn., which has since been the family home. Frank spent 40 years of his life in the Signal Dept. of the Illinois Central R.R. The last 25 of which he has been chief Signal Inspector of all Illinois Central signal installations south of the Ohio River, which position he held until his retirement in Feb. 1942. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home in this city with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mrs. Eliza BARBEE has received word that her grandson, Pvt. Lester BARBEE, was wounded in action in Germany on Jan. 18th. Pvt. BARBEE is the son of Floyd BARBEE of Centralia.

- Word has been received by his wife, Mrs. Jean GRAY, that her husband, Pvt. Harry GRAY, Jr. had left the hospital in England Jan. 12. He was wounded in action in France on Sept. 27 of last year while serving the infantry with General PATTON’s Third Army. At present he is in England with the Army Air Force and writes how much easier job but don’t know how long it will last. He received the Purple Heart for his wounds.

- William H. HOUSE, Y1 c and Mrs. HOUSE have a daughter born Friday in Mark Greer Hospital in Vandalia, named Carolyn Ann.

- A.S. PARRISH underwent an operation in the Mark Greer Hospital in Vandalia on Tuesday of last week.

- Chas. FOX went to Salem Saturday to attend a dinner party at the home of Ward HOLT, which was given in honor of his sister, Lt. Charlotte HOLT of the Womens’ Marine Corps, who is home on a short leave from her duties at Cherry Point, S.C.

- A list was printed of weekend guests of Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM celebrating her birthday.

- Dale HAMMER and family of Sumner, spent Sunday here with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER and Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- A telegram was received Tuesday by his wife stating that PFC Beauford L. HANNA was seriously wounded on Jan. 1 in action in France and details would follow. Mrs. HANNA, with her 2 children, have been making their home in Kinmundy the past several months. PFC HANNA is the son of Dr. H.L. HANNA and was inducted into the service on Nov. 17, 1943. He sailed across on June 30, 1944, landing in England. He has been stationed in France for the past month. The last letter received by his wife was dated Jan. 19 in France. He was a member of the Mechanized Infantry. We certainly hope this good family will receive good news as to the outcome of this wound.

- Shriver School: Mr. and Mrs. Carroll SIMMONS and family attended the funeral for his brother, Oscar SIMMONS, Monday at Donoho Prairie. He was injured while working in a defense plant in Aurora on Jan. 31, and died Feb. 8.

- Pleasant Grove: Paul SHAFFER called on his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy SHAFFER Thursday. He received a medical discharge for the army.

- East Zion: Mr. James BASSETT lost a nice heifer Sunday.

- Young School: Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON have received word from their son, Pvt. Xon WILKINSON that he has arrived safely in the Philippines.

- Brown: A farewell and birthday dinner was given Sunday in the L.L. BAKER home. It being Ula May’s 13th birthday and farewell as BAKERs are moving near Brownstown in the near future. A list of those attending was included.

- Meadow Branch: Edward McINTOSH went to Springfield last Monday to enter the Navy.

- Richard MOTCH, AMM2 c, of Whidbey Island, Wash. arrived here Saturday to spend an unexpected short leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.A. MOTCH and son, John.

- Meacham: Word has been received by relatives that Pvt. Junior MERRITT has arrived safely overseas. He is in England.

Feb. 22, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Capt. Gail HINES, who is stationed in France. The letter was dated 22 January and says: I have been receiving your paper for several months at intervals. I know you send it out quite regularly, but the mail situation over here is not all it could wished, and often I go for 2 or 3 months with no paper, and then I get a whole bundle of them at once. Then I take time to read up on what is going on in the old hometown, and for awhile try to imagine I am back that way and enjoying life there. We have been in France since shortly after D Day, and have been kept quite busy. There have been times when I have had as many as 20 or 25 companies to serve, and I have, for the last 2 months now, held a Service every night in the week except one, and should have held services then had I felt I could hold up under it. I hold anywhere from 3 to 8 or 10 on Sunday. One Sunday I had 11. So you can see I am keeping busy whether I keep out of mischief or not. Not always have I kept out of mischief, either. There have been some times when I have tangled up with Jerry, and we have some rather "hot" times. While I am seldom in the front lines, I have been at some times, and have been bombed, shelled, sniped at, pinned down with small arms and machine gun fire, and have been tossed out of my Jeep into mine fields, so you can see that it is not all a bed of roses, even to be a Chaplain. So far I have not been scratched, but have had the wounded fall on top of me, and have seen the dead piled all around. God has spared me, so far. During the Christmas season, and even yet, I have been receiving greetings from friends at Kinmundy. I cannot write all of them, and wish to thank them through this means for their remembrances. I note that they, and you, too, still address me as 1st Lt. May I inform you that I have had my Captaincy now for almost a year? I guess I did not tell you about it, though. My work takes me out on the road a great deal, and I have my own Jeep in which to travel. Since I have been in France, I have put about 3000 miles on it each month. I have an assistant assigned to me, and he is supposed to do the driving, and he does when the roads are good. Just now they are solid ice, and he doesn’t handle the Jeep too well, so I am driving. The first day we had ice, he started driving, and had 2 accidents before we reached the first place. I took over then, and have been doing most of the driving since that time. At present I am billeted in a nice French home, and have a good room and a good bed. During the latter part of December, however, we were out in tents. We were there at Christmas, and cannot say we had a pleasant Christmas either. I held 2 services that night, and during the last one Jerry came over and gave us a little strafing party, but did not hit any one. I was preaching at the time, and as there was no place we could dive into, we just went on with the service. The men were pretty jittery, though, and I guess I was too. Again, let me thank you for your paper. I appreciate it a lot, and am always glad to see it arriving.

- Here’s one from PFC Charles DISS, who is stationed in Germany at the present time. His letter was dated 3 February and says: Hello there and how is every one in the old home town? Just fine I suppose and I am O.K. I just got some of the papers this evening and was sure glad to get them. Some were about 3 months old but there was still plenty of news, especially the letters from the boys. They are really interesting. By the way, Norris, I sent you a little souvenir the other day that I got when I was in Holland, but I suppose it will take quite some time for it to get there as packages seem to travel awfully slow, anyhow, it is on the way. I suppose you have plenty of snow there. We sure did have a big one here but it is slowly leaving and I hope we don’t have anymore. It used to be fun to play in, but over here there is no fun to it. But it will sure be bad, when it does thaw out. I sure hope this is all over with before too long, and the news seems to be good, but I suppose you folks get as much news as we do. We get our daily paper in the "Stars and Stripes". It is something to look forward to from day to day to help pass the evenings which, are sometimes rather long. We received our PX rations this evening and much to our surprise each man was given a bottle of Coca-Cola. That is something very unusual over here. I did, however, have some when I was on pass in Leige with my Aunt. We certainly had a nice visit and I hope we can get together again real soon. But she has moved and it is rumored that we may, so I hope we can soon meet again in the good old U.S.A. Well, I guess this is about all for tonight, so bye for now.

- What a coincidence that we should receive a letter the same week from 2 brothers. This one is from Sgt. Beryl DISS, who is stationed in France. His letter was dated 31 January and says: I wish to take this opportunity to thank you and everyone else for the paper. I should have written to you before now, but just haven’t. I certainly enjoy it very much, also several of the boys in my Section like to read it. I’ve got a swell bunch of boys in my section. We are all about the same age. Several of them are from Illinois; one being from Salem. How’s everything back in the old town? I imagine things are pretty quiet. I’ll certainly be glad when we can all get back there. I have traveled a lot of miles, although not quite as many as some of the boys. I’ve seen Fred GAMMON twice since I’ve been over here. He is just fine and looks just like he always did. He is cooking and I ate dinner with him the first day I was there. He is really a good cook, so his wife won’t have to worry about cooking when he gets home. He has been moved but I know the name of the town he is in, so I’m looking forward to seeing him again, as well as several other boys from home that are not too far from here. I have also seen Burdette SWIFT and Glenn INGRAM. They are both just fine and getting along swell. It really does a person good to see some one from home. I would like very much to get up where my brother and aunt are but don’t know if I will or not. Well, I must close for now, but again, I want to thank you for the paper. You are certainly doing your part and also doing a grand job of it. Good luck and here’s hoping we can soon personally come in and thank you.

- Sgt. Howard HAMMER Arrives Home: Sgt. Howard HAMMER arrived here on Tuesday of last week to spend a much earned furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER and family. After saying hello to several of his relatives and friends, he accompanied his sister, Mrs. Ernest JONES to her home near Longview, Sunday, returning here on Tuesday. This is Sgt. Howard’s first furlough here since he entered the army in Nov. 1940. So you may know he is plenty glad to see home folks again. In Sept. 1941, Sgt. Howard went aboard ship and sailed for Iceland. Here he was stationed until November 1941 when he was shipped to England and the following month to France. When he left France, he sailed for the good old U.S.A. and was mighty glad when he set foot on American soil again. Sgt. Howard is attached to the M.P.’s and is a cook. His furlough is really not termed a furlough, but a "Rest Period", and we would say that it was a well earned rest for him. Yes Sgt. Howard, we are all mighty glad to see you home again, even if it is only for a short stay. Sgt. Howard has 2 brothers in the service, Sgt. Delbert HAMMER now in California, and James HAMMER, SOM2 c, now stationed at a Naval Repair Base in California. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Arthur S. PARRISH died Monday morning in the Mark Greer Hospital in Vandalia from a heart attack. He had undergone an operation for hernia 2 weeks previous and was getting along in good shape. He was able to be up in a wheelchair, when the attack struck him. He was 62 years of age and a retired mail carrier.

- Junior VANSCYOC, S2 c of the U.S. Navy, arrived home last Friday to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC.

- Junior GARRETT, S2 c, arrived here yesterday evening to spend a 9 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT and family. Junior has just completed his boot training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station.

- The kin of Erwin H. BRANDER Serial No. 333977799 can receive some good news from this soldier by calling at the Kinmundy Post Office. Fred O. GRISSOM, Postmaster.

- Mrs. Cecil CURRY of Chicago received word a few days ago that her brother, PFC Charles PERGL, was reported missing in action on Dec. 20, in Luxembourg.

- According to a release direct to us from the 12th Armored Division of the 7th Army in France, Staff Sergeant Ervin F. CHEATUM of this city, has been awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge. This badge is awarded for satisfactory performance of duty in ground combat against the enemy, and entitles the soldier to $10 per month additional pay. The badge is worn on the left breast, above the service ribbons. The local soldier is a member of the 12th Armored Division commanded by Major Gen. Roderick R. ALLEN, and has been overseas 3 months. His unit is one of the newest on the front of Gen. Alexander M. Patch’s Seventh Army.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ed BRASEL celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary Sunday with a dinner at the home of their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Cliff OLDEN. This was a surprise to Mr. and Mrs. BRASEL planned by their children, who were all present: Mr. and Mrs. OLDEN and son, Garry, Mr. and Mrs. Ellis JOHNSON and daughters, Betty and Doris; Mr. and Mrs. Vernon STOCKER and Miss Mary BRASEL. Their gift was a dozen American Beauty Roses.

- Family Notified PFC Beauford L. HANNA Died of Wounds in France 3 February: Again our community was saddened Sunday morning when a telegram was delivered to Mrs. Irene HANNA, stating that her husband, PFC Beauford L. HANNA, had died on Feb. 3 in a hospital in France. It will be remembered that she received a telegram last week stating that he had been seriously wounded in France on Jan. 31. Our hearts are all saddened at the loss of this good boy and the sympathy from the entire community goes out to this good family. Beauford Laverne, son of Dr. Homer L. and Martha J. GRAY HANNA, was born July 18, 1920 in Kinmundy and here he grew to manhood acquiring his education in the local schools, graduating from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘38. After finishing school, Beauford farmed for a while. In the spring of ‘41, he went to Chicago, where he found work. It was here that he met Miss Irene SLONINA, and on Aug. 9, 1941, they were married in St. Louis. He continued at his work in Chicago until he was inducted into the army on Nov. 17, 1942. He was stationed at various camps in the U.S.A. and finally sailed overseas June 30, 1944, landing in Italy. From there he went to France. His companion was permitted to be near him at the various camps in the United States. But when he sailed overseas, she, with their small son, came to Kinmundy to make their home. Besides his faithful companion, he leaves his 2 years old son, Darrell Patrick and 4 weeks old daughter, Lavrenne Lynn. Another son died in infancy. He also leaves his father, a step-mother, who was dear to his heart, and the following sisters and brothers: Bertha DAVIS, Leona REICK and Ada SMITH of Chicago; Marv HANKS of Alma; Ruth KNABE of Mt. Vernon; Gail HULTS, Clyde and Paul HANNA of this city; S. Sgt. Dwight HANNA of El Paso, Texas; and Sgt. Robert HANNA now stationed in the Netherlands, East Indies. Memorial services will be held in the near future. We would like to remember this good boy who have his all for his country, as a quiet unassuming lad who had a broad smile for everyone he met. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Esta ROBB was called to Sumner Wednesday to help care for her grandson, Don HAMMER.

- Wilson School: Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC and son, Junior, S2c, USN, Miss Lilah OLSEN of Seattle, Wash., and Leo STOCK visited Sunday afternoon with Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and daughters.

- Young School: Pvt. Leroy SEE ate supper with his brother, Virgil SEE and family on Tuesday night of last week.

- Funeral services were held in Webster City, Iowa for Arthur HOWELL, 49, who died in Veteran’s Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. John Arthur HOWELL, son of Jack and Maggie HOWELL, was born March 31, 1895 at Tonti, Ill. He received his education here and grew to manhood here. At the age of 20 he went to Iowa to a farm near Blairsburg. On Jan. 15, 1921 he married May SCOTT at Webster City, Iowa. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by 1 sister and 1 brother. Surviving are: his wife; 1 son, Melvin, at home; 2 brothers and sisters, Harry of Farina, Ill., William of Griswald, Iowa; Mrs. William JOERDING and Mrs. Ernest STORCK of Farina. He was a WWI veteran. He also leaves a nephew, William EAGAN, of Kinmundy.

- Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and Mr. and Mrs. Clyde GARRETT were business visitors in Centralia Thursday.

March 1, 1945:

- Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, of Alma, Killed in Action: Again our community as well as our neighboring community of Alma received quite a blow hen a message was received from the War Dept. Monday morning by Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, residing south of Alma, stating "Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, who was previously reported missing in action, reports now received states he was killed in action 18 January in Belgium. It will be remembered that the parents received a telegram on Feb. 6 stating that Sgt. Carl was missing in action on Jan. 18. Naturally the family, as well as his friends, had hoped and prayed that he would turn up safe and sound in the near future. But now all these hopes have faded and this good family is grieving the loss of their son and brother. And to these relatives we extend our heartfelt sympathy. Sgt. Carl Edwin PURCELL, known to his most intimate friends as ‘Percy’, was the oldest son of Dwight C. and Carrie BROOM PURCELL. He was born on a farm just south of Alma, April 28, 1915. He attended the grade school in Alma and graduated from Alma H.S. in 1930, being valedictorian of his class. Then he attended the Salem H.S., graduating with the class of ‘32. After completing his high school education, he attended Southern Illinois Normal Univ. at Carbondale a few terms. He gave up his studies here to come back home and assist his father with the farming and fruit growing. He was appointed extra mail carrier from the Alma office and served in this capacity during the winter months. A short while before his induction into the armed forces, he was employed by the Texas Pipe Line Co, of Salem. He entered the army on June 17, 1941, and was trained at various camps in this country. He sailed overseas on Sept. 3, 1943, landing in England where he remained until crossing over into France. On Aug. 1, 1944, while in France, he was wounded in the right forearm, which necessitated him being sent back to England where he spent 3 months in the hospital. For this wound, he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for Gallantry in Action. After 3 months, he was sent back into action as a member of the 3rd Armored Division, Reconnaissance Battalion and was killed in action Jan. 18, 1945. Sgt. Carl was a faithful member of the Alma Methodist Church. He was a good lad and was liked by everyone. We are sure that his spirit now rests in peace in that better land. Besides the grief stricken parents, Carl leaves 1 brother, Sgt. John D. PURCELL, now in the Philippines; 4 sisters, Rhea GREGG of Alma; Pauline DOOLEN of Seattle, Wash.; Maxine and Marilyn, at home; and his 2 grandmothers, Mrs. Belle BROOM and Mrs. Mattie PURCELL, both of Alma. It is possible that memorial services will be held a little later, but not now, due to illness in the immediate family. ( A picture accompanied this article.)

- Dwight GARNER, Water Tender First Class, arrived here Saturday to spend his 30 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER and daughter, Coralee. Needless to say that he was glad to get home as well as the parents were glad for him to get home. Dwight is bedecked with badges denoting his foreign service, and representing the following: 4 years Good Conduct; Philippine Campaign, American Theater, National Defense with 1 star representing Pearl Harbor, and 1 Asiatic-Pacific ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Midway, Coral Sea, and the Philippines. Dwight joined the United States Navy on July 8, 1940 and after completing his boot training at Great Lakes, he was assigned to the USS Dorsey. About a year ago, he was sent to an engineering school in Philadelphia. After completing his course there, he was assigned to the USS Pricket. On Sept. 29, 1944, while on this ship, he was accidently scalded with steam from a safety valve, severally burning both lower legs and his left hand. On Sept. 30, he was transferred to the USS Lexington, where he was hospitalized until Nov. 8, when he was placed in a hospital in Honolulu. He landed in San Francisco on Feb. 5 and sent on to the hospital at Farragut, Idaho, where he remained 4 days before being sent on his leave. Dwight will report back to Farragut as soon as his leave is up. There he will either be assigned to shore duty, or will be given a medical discharge as the burns have left him in such a shape that he is unfit for sea-duty. We are mighty glad to see you back, Dwight, and sincerely hope that you will enjoy every minute of your stay with us. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Arthur Spray PARRISH was born Nov. 5, 1881 near Kinmundy, and died Feb. 19, 1945 in the Mark Greer Hospital, Vandalia. He was raised on a farm 5 miles south east of Kinmundy, where he resided until manhood. He married Eva May ZIMMER on March 31, 1905, and moved to Kinmundy that fall where he resided until his death. He received an appointment as postal carrier Sept. 1905, and continued in that capacity until retirement, Dec. 1942. He was well liked by all his patrons as he always had a friendly word and pleasant smile for everyone he met. He leaves his wife, 2 sons, and 1 daughter: Hugh of Wisconsin; Donald in the U.S. service, and Ena OSTERHOLTZ; 1 infant son preceded him in death; 3 grandchildren, Jean PARRISH, Charles Walter and Robert Arthur OSTERHOLTZ; 2 brothers and 1 sister, Robert PARRISH of Kinmundy, Edward PARRISH of North Dakota; and Mrs. Junia CAMPBELL of Brazil, Ind. Services were held from the Methodist Church in Kinmundy with interment in Evergreen Cemetery. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON have received word from their sons, Kenneth and Xon, stating that they had met in the Philippines and had had a nice visit with each other. They are stationed very close together and hope to spend their idle time together.

- We were saddened very much last Saturday morning when the news came that John H. NELMS had just passed away in the Effingham Hospital where he had been a patient since Christmas Day, suffering from a heart ailment. He had entered business in Kinmundy Jan. 10, 1898 when he opened a second hand furniture store. Prior to this he had clerked in the stores of S.C. SMITH, Thomas BAGOTT, J.W. WILSON, and Myron DIEWERT. He was ambitious and wanted to start a business of his own. So he started this furniture store. Little by little, he added new furniture and it wasn’t long until he had a store of new Furniture and Floor Coverings. On July 1, 1903, he opened an undertaking department in his store. During his career of 37 years in this business he conducted more than 1000 funerals in this community. He was a good businessman and was held in high esteem by everyone. After giving 42 years of his life to the business world of Kinmundy, Mr. NELMS retired in 1940 due to ill health. He served for 9 years as a member of the Board of Education of our local school and helped to guide the destinies of the building of our present school building in 1910. In 1931, he was elected to the Board of Directors of the First National Bank. He held this until a month ago when he asked to be relieved, due to his serious illness. He was a member of Kinmundy Lodge No. 398, A.F. & A.M. and Kinmundy Chapter O.E.S. John H. NELMS, son of the late John and Emma NELMS, was born near Effingham, Ill. on June 3, 1868, and died in St. Anthony’s Hospital, Effingham, Feb. 24, 1945. When a boy of 9 years of age, he came to Kinmundy with his parents where he spent his entire life. ‘Johnny’ as he was always called, was 1 of 8 children, all of whom have preceded him in death, except 1 half-brother, Myron M. DEIWERT of Everett, Wash., and a sister, Mrs. Ellis WOLFE, of Centralia. He was married to Jessie M. HEATON on Aug. 19, 1888, and they had 5 children: Howard, Eugene, Lois, Emmett, and Martha. The 3 oldest have passed away, also, the mother. On July 17, 1911, he married Allie DENNIS. Survivors are: his wife; Emmett of Peoria; Martha of Danville; 2 grandsons, Major John R. ROBB and PFC Howard L. ROBB, both overseas; and 3 granddaughters, Norma CRAIG SHAFFER, Lois and Louise, of Danville. Services were held from the Methodist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery. A list of out-of-town relatives was included. (A picture was also included.)

- Junior Lester VANSCYOC arrived here on Feb. 16 to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC, who now reside east of Farina, but formerly of this community. He left yesterday for San Francisco to report back to duty. Junior joined the navy on Oct. 21, 1943, and after completing boot training at Farragut, Idaho, was assigned to the USS Killen. He went aboard his ship May 4, 1944, and since that time has seen some action. He wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with one star, representing a battle near the Philippines. Junior was accompanied here by Miss Lela OLSEN of Renton, Wash. And on last Friday, in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Virl SEE in this city, this couple was married by Rev. C.L. HILL of Farina. They were attended by the groom’s parents. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence OLSEN of Margie, Minn., and is employed in the Boeing Aircraft Factory in Benton, Wash. The bride will accompany the groom to San Francisco and after he returns to his ship, she will resume her work in Renton. (A picture of Junior accompanied this article.)

- Here’s a nice letter from Pvt. Charles MEYER, dated 17 February, somewhere in France. He says: As I am doing nothing but sitting around on my bunk, I’ll try to drop you a line or 2 to let you know that I haven’t forgotten the old gang. These lines find me well and happy. I also hope that it finds everyone around the old town as well as ever. I sure haven’t been here long but I have been here long enough to get a taste of the country of France I keep wanting to write but just couldn’t seem to get around to it. But today I finally got up the nerve to write I suppose the old town has had quite a few changes since I was there last. I haven’t got any of the papers for quite some time but I know that they must be following me. Tell everyone around home that I said hello and to keep up the good work. I have visited a few of the towns around here and the people seem to be pretty good to a G.I. Although only a few of them speak a little English. I have learned a few words of French so you see we make out O.K. It seems like it must rain all the time, just like old Mississippi. A couple of us are on 48 hour quarters because of cold and bad feet. I sure don’t like it one bit. I get to read the news pretty regular though. The Army puts out a paper for us and they call it the Stars and Stripes. That way we keep up with the news pretty good. Say, does my brother, Emil, still get the paper? If so, I wish you would either tell him to write me or send me his address. I believe they have moved and I sure don’t know what their new address is. I am hoping that I will soon get your paper so that I can read up on the news. Well, I have run short of time so I guess I’ll close with good luck to all.

- Here’s a letter from Pvt. Harry GRAY, Jr., who has just left a Hospital in England after being wounded and is now working in the Air Force in England. His letter was dated 30 January and says: Been a long time since I have written to you, but was thinking about it a lot of times. Have been pretty busy. I got wounded on the German and French border. It sure was hell too. I was upon the front a little over 2 months and in them 2 months, I never did go thru as much hell as I did then. We were fighting day and night and when we got time to catch a little sleep, the Jerrys would open up on us again and we sure couldn’t sleep thru that. Sometimes I don’t see how I lived thru it. Street fighting for me is the worst there is. I’ve seen all the different kind of fighting I care to see. I could tell you about a lot of different things I have been thru, but I don’t care to talk about it. They take good care of a man when he’s in the hospital. I was in the hospital a little over 3 months. The first month I was in bed, that bed sure did feel good. But now I am out of the hospital and in a Repl. camp. I was put in a non-combat outfit in the Army Air Force. I am getting along alright now. It’s been a long time since I have seen a home town paper. I don’t think I’d know what one would look like. I sure hope that my mail catches up with me soon. It takes longer for papers to come through than it would take a letter. I sincerely thank all the people in the community for all the lovely Christmas cards they sent me and hope by next year, I’ll be home. With the help of God, and the prayers of the people back home, let’s hope the war will come to an end soon. Then all the boys can come home again to their loved ones.

- Here’s a nice letter from Sgt. Paul PERRY, somewhere in Italy, and dated 13 February. He says. Just a few lines to thank you for the paper. I sure appreciate getting the old home town paper. I sure love to read the letters from the boys in the Armed Forces. The paper keeps us fellows posted on what goes on in good old Kinmundy. I have traveled many miles since I left home and I have never found any place that can compare with the good old home country. Tell everybody that I said hello and that I hope to be back with the old gang again soon. I am sending you my address again as it has changed some. Thanks again, Norris, for the paper as I sure appreciate it.

- And here’s a Japanese post card from Sgt. John D. PURCELL, who is now in the Philippines. It was dated 12 February. One side of the card carries a picture of Japanese children marching along carrying flags. They have very sad looking faces, which we imagine, is very true to life. Here is what John D. wrote on the card: Greetings Mr. VALLOW. Just finished reading your paper of Nov. 9th and decided to write a line. Some papers are late but sure glad to get every one of them. Since there weren’t any Japs left here to use these cards, thought I might as well send you one. Ha! Ha! So sorry Jap Rat. You note the differences between their children and ours. To bad they don’t know how to enjoy life. They’re in a rut. I’m feeling fine. Hope everyone around Kinmundy is O.K.

- 1st Lt. and Mrs. Walter B. PRUETT and 2 children arrived here Friday to visit the Lt.’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT. He is a chaplain in the army and stationed in Texas. He left Monday to return to his station, preparing to ship overseas. Mrs. PRUETT and children will take up their residence here.

- Mr. and Mrs. Maurice WILLIAMS of Chicago have a son, David Larry, born Feb. 17. This is their third son.

- Mrs. Mabel MARTIN and aunt left a few weeks ago to take up residence in Indianapolis.

- W.R. WILLIAMS received word last week that his namesake, Mr. and Mrs. William Riley VALLOW of Chicago, are parents of twin boys born Feb. 17.

- Cheryl Jean was born to Cpl. and Mrs. Gene WILLIAMS in Salem Hospital Feb. 21. Both mother and babe are doing fine while Daddy is overseas helping to tame the Germans.

- George B. MAHON, 82, of Green Mountain Falls, Colo., died Monday. He was born in Kinmundy on Jan. 2, 1862. He went to Kansas in 1887 and settled near Silver Lake, where he lived until 1917, when he moved to Green Mountain Falls last November. He is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Clara MITCHELL of Delia; and Miss Hazel MAHON of Mankato; a step-daughter, Mrs. Jessie DOW of Denver; 2 sons, George B. MAHON of Silver Lake and Lloyd L. MAHON of Burlingame; a step-son, Harry FULLER of California; and 6 grandchildren.

- L.C. INGRAM ate dinner here with parents, Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM, Thursday while enroute from Decatur to Alma, where he held a funeral for the infant of Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILSON of Decatur.

- Brown: Mrs. Andrew NEAL and daughters came last week to make their home with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. JAMISON. Mr. NEAL leaves soon for the armed forces.

- Junior GARRETT, S2c, and Calvin BARBEE, S2c, of Great Lakes, and Lyle SWIFT, EM 3c of Washington, D.C., are here visiting with home folks.

- Mr. and Mrs. Forrest WILLIAMS and daughters, Mrs. Helen HICKS of Alma, and Mrs. Pauline DOUDERA of Salem; Mr. and Mrs. Loren WILLIAMS, Mrs. Kathryn PARKERSON and Mr. and Mrs. Ham STIPP of Alma, and Mr. and Mrs. W.S. GEORGE of Kinmundy, and Mr. and Mrs. William COLE and son of Woodlawn spent Sunday with Mrs. J. Fletcher COLE helping Mrs. COLE celebrate her ? birthday.

- Mr. and Mrs. Carl DUNLAP and daughter, spent the weekend here with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.C. DUNLAP, and Mrs. Icy GARRETT, and other relatives.

March 8, 1945:

- Mrs. Ray OLDEN received a telegram from the War Dept. yesterday stating that her husband, Pvt. Roscoe Ray OLDEN, had been seriously wounded 23 February in action in Germany. This was indeed a shock to the immediate family as well as the community. And we are all hoping and praying that things will turn out for the best. Pvt. OLDEN entered the service June 14, 1944 and was assigned to the Air Corps, but was later transferred into the Infantry. He sailed overseas in January. Ray is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe OLDEN of this city.

- Jennie UNDERWOOD received a telegram from Kenneth E. PIGG, stating that he will arrive in Kinmundy March 11.

- Mr. and Mrs. Burdette SHAFFER are rejoicing over the arrival of a baby daughter born Feb. 27 named Sandra Sue.

- Pvt. Wilbur BROOM, husband of Mrs. Jessie BROOM, of Gary, Ind. has been missing in action in Luxembourg since Dec. 20, 1944, according to a war dept. telegram received last week. A member of the 110th Infantry which was one of the hardest hit units during the German drive into Belgium. He entered the service in Oct. 1943 and was originally placed in a railroad battalion transferring later to the infantry unit.

- Here’s a letter from Pvt. Everett D. BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, of Rock Falls, Ill., but formerly of this city. The letter was dated 15 February, somewhere in France, and says: Thought I would drop you a few lines to let you know that I have not forgotten my friends from my hometown. I was wondering why I was not getting the paper, but it is coming O.K. now. I was noticing the last paper I received which had the list of all the boys from Kinmundy; my youngest brother, Pearl E. BASS, was missing from the list. He has been in the service since Sept. 1943. He is now in Manila. Robert is in Belgium, and Marshall is in France. They are all well. Pearl received a slight bullet wound in his arm, but is going strong again. I have a lot of experiences with the enemy indirect but I am sure lucky. I will never forget one time when I was under mortar and artillery fire for 6 or 7 hours. It was sure nerve racking. I was in on the German Bulge in Luxembourg, also experienced the liberation of Colmar. I have been in all 4 countries and I think Luxembourg has the best scenery. It was a tourist country before the war. It is a quiet cool place in the summer time. I met one fellow from Boston, Mass., who was in the last war. He was discharged in 1918, and he went back to Luxembourg and married. He said he was going back to Boston when this war is over. Well, I must close this time. Good-by and good luck to all my old friends and neighbors on the home front.

- Here’s a short note from Tec 5 H. Merle JACKSON, dated 28 February. Merle is now in a hospital in the Hawaiian Islands suffering from a burned leg. Sorry Merle didn’t tell us more but we are glad to hear from him, even though it is just a short note. Here is what he says: Hope this finds you and general manager and the rest of the family O.K. I haven’t received a Kinmundy paper for about 6 months. The reason I have been moving a lot and been about half way around the world. I happen to be in the Hawaiian Islands now. I would appreciate it very much if you would change my address. I happen to be in the hospital with a burned leg. Really nice weather here. Bet it is cold in Kinmundy.

- PFC and Mrs. Russell SHAFFER of California, have a baby boy born Feb. 27 named Ronald Russell.

- Wilson School (from last week): A telephone meeting was held Thursday night at the school house. Chester KLINE was elected President, and J.T. CHARLTON, Treas.

- Young School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Earl LANE entertained in honor of the newlyweds, Junior VANSCYOC, S2 c, and Miss Lela OLSEN, who were married Friday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Virl SEE in Kinmundy, and also in honor of Leroy VANSCYOC, who is to go into the service of Uncle Sam soon. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Cecil LANE and family, Mr. and Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC and family, Mr. and Mrs. Virl SEE and daughter.

- Young School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON received a letter from their son, Sgt. Kenneth, saying that he and his brother, Xon, had met in the Philippines and visited with each other 4 hours. We know this is quite a boost in morale for Kenneth, since he has not seen any of his family for 3˝ years, having been overseas for more than 2 years.

- Meadow Branch: Mrs. Violet BERRY received word last week that her husband, Pvt. Chas. BERRY, had reached England safely.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Ervin SOLDNER and Charles Edward, and Mrs. Merl JOHNSTON were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh COPPLE and family. The dinner was in honor of Donna Marie COPPLE and Charles Edward’s 4th birthdays.

- Meacham: Mrs. Mattie HITT of Casey, Ill. and Mr. and Mrs. Fred HARRIS of St. Elmo, Ill. came March 4 to help their father, F.S. HARRIS, celebrate his 82nd birthday while fell on March 2. The ladies presented him with beautiful cakes.

- Brown: Cpl. James HANKS of New York is spending his furlough with his father, Guy HANKS, and other relatives and friends.

- Brown: Chas. MONICAL and wife received word of the arrival of a baby girl March 1, to Mr. and Mrs. Verle MONICAL of Alton.

- Brown: This neighborhood was well represented Tuesday at the farewell party at Paul JENKINS home for their son, who is leaving for the armed services.

- Omega (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Douglas MARLOWE have a daughter born Monday at Salem Hospital.

- East Zion (from last week): Lieut. Ancel H. ARNOLD of the Air Force from Colorado is spending a 15 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.H. ARNOLD. He will return to a camp in Texas.

- East Zion (from last week): Mark ARNOLD of the U.S. Army spent from Friday until Sunday night with his wife and daughter.

- Pleasant Grove: A large crowd attended supper and a farewell party at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Paul JENKINS, Tuesday, for their son, Jackie, who left Wednesday to join the armed services.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Amy SIPES received a phone call Tuesday stating that her son, T. Sgt. Woodson SIMER, had arrived back in the States and was then in Mass., where he would be for a short time, before being moved to another hospital.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Oscar SMITH have a grandson born to Mr. and Mrs. Uriah SMITH of East St. Louis.

- Omega: Lewis HAMPSTEN has received an honorable discharge from the army and is now home.

- East Zion: The home of Mr. and Mrs. John SHAW caught fire Sunday. The neighbors all rushed to help, but Mr. and Mrs. SHAW had the fire put out when they got there.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Marshall McCARTY of Iola spent Sunday afternoon with his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL. MARSHALL was teaching at a country school near his home this winter. He has word that his son, Dale, who was recently inducted into the service, is suffering from pneumonia at a hospital in Little Rock, Ark., where he is stationed. Mr. and Mrs. McCARTY have 3 other sons in the service: Max in England, Rex and Lex in France.

- Mickey UNDERWOOD, S2 c of NATTC in Memphis, Tenn. was in Kinmundy Sunday visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. D.T. UNDERWOOD and Jeanie.

March 15, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from 1st Lt. Walter B. PRUETT, who is now stationed in Indiantown Gap, Pa., just waiting for further orders. He says: I may not be here long enough to get many copies of the paper at this address, but I want to write a letter thanking you for sending the paper. In view of the Red Cross Drive now going on, I want to speak of the fine work I have found the Red Cross doing, both in the army camp and in the town near the camp. They do many fine things that only the men concerned and the chaplains know about. At the same time let me remind folks let me remind folks who have sons or husbands in many camps in the U.S., if they are needed at home because of an emergency, see the local Red Cross and have them notify the Red Cross at the man’s camp and sometimes it will save a lot of time when time is very important. Thanks for the paper again, and boy, how we do look forward to reading it in Kinmundy again.

- Here’s one from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY, who is now in the Philippines. The letter was dated 12 February and says: We’re in the wonderful Philippines, but I don’t see anything so grand about it especially when the Japs start throwing them back at us. This is a very advanced country though and the people are very intelligent. Almost everyone speaks English, the American brand too. They have good highways and all that. We have seen some very rough times here so far, but I think now we just about have the Japs under control, at least I hope so. Hope you’re all in good health and give my regards to every one.

- Here’s one from Sgt. James ELLIS, who is sojourning in England. His letter was dated 19 February and says: Enclosed is a photograph for your rogues gallery. This picture shows me as I fly except my oxygen mask does not show. You see my heated suit, helmet, and parachute harness. Missing is my flak suit and flak helmet. The picture I am holding is that of my red headed cousin, Joan KOHL, of Chicago. The nose of our plane carries her picture and the name "Strictly Kopasetic" as you can see on the photo. Her photograph is considered a good luck charm by the crew. She has been with us on all missions with our new ship and we have come thru tight missions O.K. time and time again. So you see would rather go without one of the men than to leave the picture behind. Regards to everyone. I hope to see Kinmundy, you, and all the rest of the folks sometime in April. The one person who has done the most for us and was always with us was God. Even those who do not believe - do before many trips. Again, so long, and regards.

- Lt. and Mrs. Ralph DAY have a baby girl born March 8 named Donna Carol at Anniston, Ala.

- Sgt. Howard HAMMER returned to Ft. Sheridan, this afternoon after spending a 30 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER.

- Word has been received thru the Associated Press correspondent aboard Admiral Mitcher’s flagship that one of Japan’s largest aircraft factories is badly damaged as a result of a direct hit made by bombs dropped by Lt. H.W. WILEY. During a carrier plane raid on Feb. 17, Lt. Wiley’s bomb struck the Nakajima Ota plant about 40 miles from Tokyo. Aerial photography shows the plant 75% damaged. Lt. WILEY is the husband of the former Helen Jean COMBS, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. COMBS, Springfield, Ill., and granddaughter of Mrs. J.H. NELMS. Lt. WILEY, naval aviator, entered training at Pensacola, Florida, in April 1941. His wife and daughter, Carol Jean, reside with Mrs. WILEY’s parents in Springfield.

- Cpl. Albert CORRELL of Boise, Idaho, came Saturday for a short visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL and other relatives and friends.

- Relatives have received 2 letters the past week from Pvt. Ray OLDEN, who was reported seriously wounded in Germany. He was wounded in the elbow and throat. Naturally the wound was serious but these letters received direct from the lad, the family now have great hopes of his recovery.

- Mrs. Pete MILLER celebrated her 86th birthday Sunday at her home with a family dinner. Dinner guests were: Walter MILLER of Lincoln; Mrs. Frank WILSON of Decatur; Mrs. Clarence JOLIFF of Centralia; Mrs. Victoria JACKSON and son, Grover BAILEY, Ank GRAY, Miss Beulah DISS and niece, Barbara Kay HAMMER of Kinmundy. Other callers during the day were also listed.

- Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd HAMMER and Mrs. Wes ROBB spent some time last week in Sumner, Ill. with Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and family. Little Miss HAMMER swallowed a straight pin, but is now reported out of danger.

- Cpl. Carl CRAIN surprised his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN, Sunday evening by calling them from New York. He stated that he had landed there that day and would soon be home to see them.

- A pair of wooden shoes arrived at our office yesterday from Holland, sent by PFC Charles DISS. They were mailed Jan. 13 and reached March 14. Thanks, Charles, we will keep them on display for a short time before wearing them.

- Missing in Action: PFC Norman PRICE, former Alton railroad employee, has been reported missing in action in France. A telegram to his wife in Bloomington stated that he has been missing since Jan. 21. He has been overseas since Oct. 1944. The last letters his wife received were written in Germany. He is the father of a 3 year old Norman, Jr. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. E.E. PRICE of Bloomington. He is the son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. John BASS of Bloomington, having married their youngest daughter, Dorothy.

- Mr. and Mrs. John GAMBILL recently celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with 155 friends in the home of their daughter, Mrs. Cora WELLS, in Chicago, with whom they live. Mr. GAMBILL is 71. Before retiring, 8 years ago, he was a farmer in Kinmundy for 40 years. Mrs. GAMBILL is 72. Their daughters in addition to Mrs. Cora WELLS are Mrs. Stella WELLS of Chicago, Mrs. Anna SPILLER of Harvey; and Mrs. Grace CLAUSING of Chicago. Cora and Stella married brothers. The GAMBILLS have 5 granddaughters, 8 grandsons, and 2 great-granddaughters and 6 great-grandsons. Pvt. Ernest SPILLER, a grandson, is serving with the infantry in France.

- PFC Floyd F. EAGAN, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, Killed on Luzon 19 February: Again, sad news has reached our community from the war front. It was little expected and struck like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky. We were all shocked when we heard the news, and we certainly extend our heartfelt sympathy, in behalf of the whole community, to the bereaved family. On Tuesday morning, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN received a telegram from the War Dept. reading, "your son, Private First Class Floyd F. EAGAN, was killed in action 19 February on Luzon." Floyd, the son of Harrison R. and Lena EAGAN, was born Sept. 19, 1918 in Alma twp. where he attained his grade school education. The family moved to their present home, just north of the C. & E.I. lake in 1936 and Floyd attended our local high school, graduating with the class of ‘40. He was a member of Company I, Illinois National Guard, at Salem, and he and his brother, Stephen, were mustered into the U.S. Army on March 5, 1941. After training in various camps, this outfit shipped overseas in July 1943. Stephen did not pass his overseas physical examination and was given a medical discharge. These 2 brothers had been together until this time. This outfit the 33rd Division landed on the Hawaiian Islands, going from there to New Guinea, thence to the East Indies and finally landed in the Philippines about Feb. 1. We have all read of the bloody battles that have taken place there. Floyd was a member of the 130th Infantry. Thus closes the chapter of the life of this good lad who like many others, gave his last full measure of devotion for his country. He is another boy whom we would like to remember as a very quiet, unassuming lad, who had a smile for everyone he met. Besides his parents, he is survived by 2 brothers, Stephen of this city, and Harold of Champaign, and 2 sisters, Mary GORDON and Thelma MOLENHOUR, both of Iuka. A memorial will be given in honor of this brave lad in the near future. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Omega: Zarold LEWIS of the Army is home on furlough

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Guy SHAFFER have received word from their son, Lt. John SHAFFER, stating he had arrived safe in Dutch, New Guinea.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Amy SIPES received a letter from her son, T. Sgt. Woodson SIMER, who is in a hospital in Clinton, Iowa, stating that he is getting along alright.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Nellie MAYBERRY received a letter from her son, Sgt. Flory REPEC, who has arrived safely overseas.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN were made very happy Sunday when they received a phone call from New York by their son, Cpl. Carl CRAIN, who had landed there after a service in the army of nearly 4 years. They expect him home in a few days on furlough.

- Meacham: Pvt. Carroll ALLEN of Ft. Knox, Ky. came Wednesday to visit with Mrs. ALLEN and baby in the home of Mrs. Dora HEICHER.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Ivy LOWE from a camp in Iowa are spending their furlough here with relatives and friends.

- East Zion: Mrs. Nellie Fern BASSETT of Patoka spent the weekend with James BASSETT and family.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD, Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN and son, Larry, called at the Peck CONANT home Saturday night.

- Mrs. A.D. NICHOLS and daughter, Lucille HEADLEY, called at the Chas. ARNOLD home Sunday afternoon.

- Jacob R. GOOD, more familiarly known as "Jake", the eldest son of Jacob R. and Mary WILSON GOOD, was born in Lawrence, Feb. 18, 1873. Here he spent his entire life. On April 12, 1898, he married Hattie R. WHITE. They raised her son from a previous marriage, Harry RICHARDS, and to the grandson, Jake RICHARDS, who lived with them from infancy to early manhood. She died on Sept. 24, 1925. His sister, De Etta, died in 1905; his brother, Tilton, in 1927. Jacob R. GOOD and Hattie B. ROACH were married Feb. 5, 1927, and she had 3 children by a former marriage. After the death of his father in 1894, his mother lived with him, who had been blind for 25 years before her death in 1933. He also provided a home for an elderly cousin who died in 1939, and the mother of Mrs. GOOD who died in 1934. Jacob R. GOOD died Dec. 29, 1944. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery. Mr. Jake and Mr. Tilt GOOD lived in Kinmundy a few years and helped in the John WILSON store. Many of the older citizens will remember the boys. Mr. GOOD was a resident of Lawrence, Kansas.

- Meadow Branch: Verne SCHOONOVER, who is a Petty Officer 3rd Class, in the Navy Air Corps has been transferred to Lake City, Florida. His wife and babe, who have been staying with him in Oklahoma, have returned here to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John McINTOSH, where they will make their home at present.

March 22, 1945:

- Here’s another one of those interesting letters from Lt. Cpl. John A. BROOM, Jr., who is still in Italy. The letter was dated 9th March, sent via air-mail and we received it on the 17th, which speaks very well for this mail service. He says: It seems that during the past several issues of your paper that sorrow and bereavement have taken the forefront. With the passing of Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, the ‘missing in action’ of Carl PURCELL, the death of my beloved aunt, Mae SCHERMERHORN, and many others makes me feel very sorry and sympathetic for those people at home - the relatives, the friends. Sometimes when I read of the various ones who have been lost in action, I feel that perhaps some of us are not doing our bit, since we aren’t getting all shot up all the time. Then of course I have to realize that without a good air force the life would be much more miserable for those on the ground. Yes, we all have a part to play and if someone is lucky enough to be in a safer position than other, I suppose he should not be criticized for it. The difference in the war now and what it was 2 years ago shows what superior air force means to the dough-foot in the front lines. While I wasn’t there, I have been told of "Messerschmidt Lane" and "Foch-Wulf Alley" in the days of the life and death struggle for Tunisa, while today it is a rare thing to see an enemy plane. About a year ago or so I was visiting some friends not too far from the front when I saw a Foch-Wulf 190 strafe a road - and he wasn’t too far away. Anytime you don’t think that is a thrilling thing you are wrong. One doesn’t know which way to run. About 2 weeks ago I received a letter from Arthur MUELHAUSEN from Alma, and he said, "I don’t suppose we are close enough, to ever see one another, but I wish we could." Well, it so happened that I could tell by his address approximately his location and found that we were not too far apart. I wrote back and asked him to look me up - I haven’t heard from him since, but I’m slightly farther away than I was when I wrote the letter. As you can see, I am still in the forgotten theater of war. Every other battle on the face of the globe is stealing the lime light. This is not because of the type of fighting here in Italy, nor the Terrain, but merely because other battles are probably more important to the ultimate end. It is difficult for you folks back there to realize the tough fight which Italy has represented. You probably think of Italy as having real full-grown mountains, do you? Actually, there are some of the most rugged mountains, the most violent rivers, and the most unpleasant weather in the world. The armies have fought these obstacles all the way through Italy in addition to fighting a very tough enemy. The only reason I bring this up is so that you folks back there won’t discount the soldier who has fought in Italy. We just had a USO show here, one of the best I have seen yet. It was D’Artega and his all girl band - some of those lovely American beauties that we can only dream about. It is so refreshing to see a group of nice, clean, pretty, talented American girls again - it makes one realize that this is one thing he is fighting for. One of the girls was from Lebanon, Ill., a very sweet Sax player - it certainly made me homesick to see all of them. Now, I know you don’t believe what I am about to say, for it seems that most people back there want to hear only of the hardships of war on this side of the pond. At present time, I am living, working and eating in steam heated buildings. It is a small locality far away from everything of particular interest, but is so arranged that everyone can be as comfortable as he would be at home. Our eats are very good. We wouldn’t be ashamed to feed the President in our mess - chinaware which we have purchased over here, table cloths which we have purchased over here. Just a darn good mess. Like of the USO girls who ate with us last night said, "We were told that we could expect to lose about 10 pounds on this tour, and it’s been the other way around, I’ve gained 10 pounds already." That goes for most of us. I, being the skinny little fellow who formerly haunted those parts, now balance the scales at an even 190 pounds and am disgustingly healthy. You will probably say that we are living too well for being in a war, but my counterattack is voiced by saying of a prominent military figure in this theater, that "Any d___ fool can be uncomfortable." I’m a very busy man at present since I am doing several jobs. As Group Supply officer Group Administrative Officer, Group Courts and Boards Officer, and Legal Assistance Office, plus being Chairman of the Board of Governors of our Officer’s club, I am kept on the jump. In spite of all of this, several of us find time of an evening to play bridge, no gambling whatsoever. It makes the time go faster. I have almost sworn off going to picture shows for the simple reason there are about 3 types of shows and none suit my present mental set-up. There is the love story which makes me homesick for my family; there is the mystery story which makes me have bad dreams; there is the type where some husband is trying to steal the other’s wife or vice versa which is of no interest to me. Well, I must get along. It might interest you to know that the fruit trees here are in full bloom, the grass in green and except for an abundance of birds one could easily feel that it’s springtime in Illinois. We haven’t had but very little rain since Christmas, some cold weather - not too cold as you think of it there, however. There is still some frost "on the pumpkin" some mornings. We are all "sweating out" getting home in 1945 sometime. The war looks favorable for such an occurrence so perhaps it will come true. Two years is enough for anyone to spend away from his family, don’t you think? My sympathy goes out to those who have been so unfortunate to lose loved ones in this war.

- Here’s one from PFC Charles JENKINS written March 7, somewhere in France. He says: Well, I believe I’ll attempt to write you a small letter once again, this time from France. So far, I haven’t seen to much of it, but from what I’ve seen, I’ll take the states, gladly. This finds me stationed in a French Caserne or French Garrison, which ever you prefer to call it. We are in a town of about 15,000 population. It’s a quaint old village, composed of narrow cobblestone streets and a lot of stone walls and buildings. In fact, the majority of the buildings, including the one in which I am now living, are built of stone. They have a swell Cathedral here, which was built sometime around the 16th century and is certainly a large one. The people here seem to be reasonably friendly and are willing to be of assistance when and wherever possible. The children are about as mischievous as they are in the states. Their favorite saying is "Cigarette for Papa." They also ask for candy and chewing gum. The principle mode of transportation seems to be by the way of bicycle. They have the coke-burning automobile, truck, and busses also. In the majority of cases, the heavy material is hauled on 2-wheel carts, being drawn usually by one horse, sometimes two. I have also seen several cases where oxen were being used as work animals. I have been receiving the paper pretty regular since I arrived over here. The first few went through my old station, but after that they came directly across. I certainly enjoy reading the paper and would like to take this opportunity to once again thank you for it. I especially enjoy reading news about and letters from the fellows in the different parts of the world. I also enjoy the Zatso column, in fact, the whole paper. I have my camera along and I hope to get some very interesting pictures while I am over here. So far, I have visited LeHarve and Paris and I hope to visit Paris again in the near future, if it is all possible. Well, since it’s nearly time to turn in, I believe I’ll call it quits for this time and hit the hay. So until later, so-long, and here’s hoping this war comes to a quick ending.

- Dies of Wounds: Yesterday, Mr. and Mrs. Walter LAMBIRD, of Meacham twp., received a message of the death of their son, PFC Harold LAMBIRD, who died March 9, of wounds received in Iwo Jimo. Harold was a Marine.

- J. Frank REEDER, eldest son of Capt. Wm. C. and Elizabeth SHRIVER REEDER, was born in Falmuth, Ky., May 2, 1859, and died at the home of his son, Forest, in Chicago, March 14, 1945. He came to Kinmundy with his parents at an early age, his father engaging in the hardware business. He learned this trade and conducted his own store for a number of years. In 1884, he was married to Jeannie EAGAN, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.B. EAGAN, who lived only 1 year after their marriage. In 1887, he married Jennie MAHON, and they had 4 sons: Lincoln C., who died a few years ago; Forest of Chicago; Fred of Granite City; and Frankie, who died in infancy. The mother died in 1894, leaving Frank and the 3 sons. He gave them all the care and devotion a father could. The family moved to Venice, Ill. in 1901, and later to Granite City and Chicago, where he resided with his son, Forest and wife, until his death. He leaves the 2 sons and their wives, and 3 grandsons, Ralph in England with the U.S. Army; Forest, Jr., and William in Chicago. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- With the 87th Infantry Division in Germany, Gordon E. SHREFFLER, Battery C, 334th Field Artillery Battalion recently was promoted to the grade of PFC, it has been announced by Capt. Joseph G. MOBLEY, commanding the Battery C, 334th FA Bn. PFC SHREFFLER is a member of Brig SHREFFLER is a member of Brig. Gen. Frank L. CULIN, Jr.’s 87th "Acorn" Infantry Division. PFC Gordon E. SHREFFLER earned his promotion by the ability he has displayed in the performance of his duties since the "Acorn" Division joined the Third U.S. Army, commanded by Lieut. Gen. George S. PATTON, Jr. He is the husband of Mrs. Norma D. SHREFFLER, who resides at Kinmundy.

- Emmerson JONES, F2 c, who has been sailing the seven seas on the USS Pennsylvania, arrived here Friday night to spend a 27 day leave with his wife and 2 children as well as his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom JONES and family. This is his second leave home since entering the navy on Sept. 16, 1943, his first leave being in Nov. 1943 upon completion of his boot training. And this is the first time he has seen his 13 month old daughter, Donna Louise. He also has a 3 year old daughter, Linda Kay. On Tuesday evening of this week, his wife prepared a birthday dinner for him and invited his parents and family to help Emmerson celebrate his birthday. The table was adorned with a birthday cake on which rested 24 candles. Emmerson wears several ribbons representing American Defense, Asiatic-Pacific Theater with 6 stars for the battles of Quajlein, Pelieu, Eniewetok, Guam, and Anguar, and the ribbon for the Philippine Campaign containing 2 stars for the battles of Luzon and Leyte. After his leave has expired, he will report back to San Francisco. Emmerson has one brother in the armed forces, Corporal Richard JONES, attached to the Air Corps in Texas. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Memorial Services will be held Sunday in the Primitive Baptist Church in Alma for PFC Floyd F. EAGAN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, of this city, who was killed in action in Luzon, Feb. 19.

- Cpl. Carl C. CRAIN arrived here Wednesday of last week to spend a 30 day rest period with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN. He landed in New York on the Sunday previous and was sent direct to Fort Sheridan, where he was issued the necessary papers to bring him home. Needless to say, Mr. and Mrs. CRAIN are mighty happy over this occasion, as well as Cpl. CRAIN’s many friends. This is his first trip home since Aug. 1941. Cpl. CRAIN entered the service on Aug. 20, 1940, and after training in various camps, was shipped overseas Feb. 19, 1942, landing in Iceland. He was stationed there until Aug. 5, 1943, when he was shipped to England. He entered France July 7, 1944, attached to the Field Artillery of the First Army. Now his battalion is attached to the Air Corps. Corp. CRAIN wears 6 service stripes on his sleeve. His left breast is adorned with the good conduct ribbon representing Pre-Pearl Harbor, American Theater of Operations (European, African, and Middle Eastern.) This ribbon contains 4 stars representing the battles of Normandy Campaign, Northern France Campaign and German Ground Combat. The 4th star was awarded for knocking down a Buzz (V2) Bomb. Corp. CRAIN has one brother, Eugene CRAIN, Coxswain, in the navy in the Southwest Pacific. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Wounded in Action: Last week, Mr. and Mrs. John LUTTRELL, residing near the Brown School in Meacham twp. received a message stating that their son, Pvt. Albert J. LUTTRELL, had been seriously wounded in Manila on Feb. 13. No further reports have been received. Yesterday Mrs. Dewain WHITE received word that her husband had been slightly wounded on March 9 in Germany. Mrs. WHITE is now in Maroa, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond BANNING. Pvt. WHITE is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James WHITE of Meacham.

- Emma BILEK, daughter of Vincent and Marie BLASKEY BILEK, was born March 10, 1877 in Czeckoslovakia, and died at the home of her brother, James, March 16, 1945. When 3 years of age, she came with her parents to America and settled in Chicago. Here they remained until 1885 when they came to Kinmundy and settled on a farm west this city. Here the family remained ever since. She was of a family of 11 children, all of whom have passed away, except for 1 brother, James. There is also surviving, 1 nephew, George KOTVA. Services were held from the Baptist Church in Alma with interment in Martin Cemetery.

- Kills 4 Japs: With the 38th Infantry Division on Bataan - PFC Merle W. SCHNEIDER serving with the cavalry reconnaissance troop of which he is a mortar man came upon a Japanese installation with his platoon and killed 4 Japs and destroyed a machine gun. During the battle to avenge Bataan he has seen much activity throughout the Peninsula and was one of the first Americans to help liberate many towns and villages in the Northern Sector of Luzon. He has been overseas for more than a year serving in Hawaii and new Guinea and now in the Philippines. He is entitled to wear the Good Conduct Asiatic-Pacific and the Philippines Liberation Ribbons. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. H.E. SCHNEIDER who reside northeast of Kinmundy, and also has a brother serving with the American Troops in Germany.

- Word has been received his week of the serious condition of Mrs. Minnie RUDOLPH, who has undergone a surgical operation at the Arcade Hospital in Sacramento, Cal. She is the daughter Mr. and Mrs. T.M. SMITH and lived here for many days.

- Leroy VANSCYOC left Monday for Great Lakes, Ill. having enlisted in the Navy.

- Wayne PIGG, ARM1 c, and wife of Florida spent the past week with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. PIGG. They arrived in time to have a short visit with Kenneth PIGG, S1 c, who was also here on a visit. Also the other brother, Tec 3, Wydell PIGG of Scott Field was here over the weekend.

- Mr. and Mrs. Robb GREEN entertained to dinner on March 11, in honor of the birthdays of Mack ROBB, Fletcher COLE, Sam LOWE, and Mrs. GREEN. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Mack ROBB, Mr. and Mrs. Sam LOWE and son, Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher COLE, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Glenn ROBB of Salem, and Lt. and Mrs. Darrell ROBB of Texas. This dinner is an annual affair and will be celebrated next year in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Mack ROBB.

- Mr. and Mrs. Marshall SPENCER received a cablegram Saturday from her son, S. Sgt. Maxey, saying he has completed his missions, and will soon be home.

- Mrs. Martha DOWNS received the announcement of a great-grandson, born to Mr. and Mrs. Marion TINNY of Lathrop, Mo. The mother is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rube DOWNS.

- Mr. and Mrs. Loren WILLIAMS of Alma came Sunday and gave their aunt, Mrs. Martha DOWNS, an advance surprise birthday dinner, altho her birthday is not until March 22, when she will be 84 years old. Dinner guests were: Mr. and Mrs. Loren WILLIAMS, Mrs. Lila WILLIAMS and daughter of Alma, Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher COLE, Mis Deloris DYER and Zola BARBEE of this city. Evening guests were: Mr. and Mrs. Ralph LUX and son, Gene.

- Mr. and Mrs. Billie MORRIS and sons were given a farewell dinner by neighbors. They are moving to Flora where he has employment.

- Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER spent the weekend in Charleston, Ill. with Mr. and Mrs. Paul BAGOTT helping Mr. and Mrs. Wm. BAGOTT celebrate their 63rd anniversary, and also Mr. BAGOTT’s 86th birthday. Other guests were: Mrs. Bert GUBBINS and daughter, Mrs. Martin LEAVITT and son, Andy, of Muncie, Ind., and Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER of Sumner, Ill.

- Ray INGRAM, PhM1c and Mrs. INGRAM of Va. arrived Wednesday for a visit with the I.D. INGRAM and F.G. JONES families.

- Mrs. Amy SIPES received word that T. Sgt. Woodson SIMER was to arrive in St. Louis Sunday for a 15 day furlough with his wife and other relatives.

- Miletus: Eugene HARRELL, F1 c, of U.S.N. came last Friday to spend his leave with his wife and children returning Monday.

- Cadet Annette VALLOW of St. Louis spent Wednesday and Thursday here with her parents.

March 29, 1945:

- Here’s a letter from Paul PARRISH, SC2 c, who is sailing the seven seas on the USS Cleburne. His letter was dated 19 March and says: Your "Zatso column" makes interesting reading and we always look forward to receiving your paper. The 2 men names as follows in addition to myself get a great deal of pleasure out of reading your paper are: Mickey McCOY, Salem, and HESTER of Centralia. I can’t recall HESTER’s first name. HESTER and I are doing our best to give the fellows a fair sample of that ole Southern Illinois cooking. Haven’t seen anyone losing any weight as yet. Not so long ago, I tried to give the fellows a part of my finger with the vegetables in the soup; however, it is all well healed now. I caught it in the vegetable chopper. This accident was due to an overdose of liberty with a very pretty blonde. Again, allow me to express my appreciation for the paper. I look forward to receiving it with a great deal of interest. The following is the "Latest News Broadcast from Tokyo." "Vee blast Pearl Harbor." "No goot." "Vee blast Guam." "No goot." "Vee blast Midway." "No goot." "Vee no goot bunch." "Blasters." You might tell any of my ole friends to drop me a line. I will appreciate hearing from them.

- Here’s a nice letter from Tec 3 Xon L. ALEXANDER, who is somewhere in India, Province of Assam. He says: Dumfounded, I suppose hearing from me. But for the first time since starting the long trip over here, I have found some time to catch up on my writing. While in the states I received your paper regularly and enjoyed it every line. Many of the fellows here have read it and also enjoyed it. Especially Zatso. It is the only column of its kind I have run across in any paper. So if for nothing else, you should be commended for your originality. I also enjoyed the letters from men in service. I read Rex GAMMON’s description of India, while I was still in training; never dreaming, was to wind up here. If Rex is still here could you send me his address. I will sure try to contact him. I have never run across any of the boys from home, but I’m still looking for someone. All for now and thanks very much for the paper.

- Here’s one from Lt. Walter (Bill) WILLIAMS, who is flying from England to somewhere else and back again. His letter was dated 11 March and says: I have begun to receive your fine paper again with some regularity. It sure is a great help as it serves as several letters from home. Of course, the papers we receive over here are old but when you are so far from home, there is no such thing as old news. I can’t tell you anything about England that hasn’t been told. Of course, it can’t be compared to the States but in many ways, England isn’t at fault. England’s struggle has been long and ever so trying. I sometimes wonder where she gets her patience. There is still so much to be done. I have been on the alert for some of the other boys over here, but to no avail, as yet. I have visited London and other cities around, thinking I might see someone I know. There has been so many from around home come over here that I wouldn’t think it such a miracle to find someone I knew. I will close now with so many thanks for the paper.

- Mr. and Mrs. Harve BRANSON, Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER of this city, Mrs. Anna SMITH of Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. Herman SMITH of Farina were in Sumner yesterday attending the funeral of Mrs. Robert BRANSON.

- Mrs. F.A. MOTCH entered Barnes hospital in St. Louis yesterday and submitted to a goiter operation.

- Ill from Septiceamia: Friends here have received word of the serious illness of Richard WAINSCOTT of Champaign. He ran a splinter in his hand a few weeks ago, and was thought to be all right, when blood poisoning set in, and for a few days his life was in despair.

- Albert MOELLER, a prominent farmer residing north of Arnold’s Chapel in Foster twp., died Tuesday in Mark Greer Hospital in Vandalia following an operation on Monday. He had been in ill health for some time and entered the hospital 3 weeks ago. Albert Ernst, son of Henry and Katherine OPFER MOELLER, was born in Foster twp., June 27, 1890, and died in Vandalia, March 27, 1945. He lived his entire life in this community. On April 19, 1914, he married Ida Anna MALCHOW, and they had 3 sons and 1 daughter: Harold, recently discharged from the armed forces and now of Illiopolis; PFC Willard, now in the Philippines; Walter and Helen at home. He is also survived by his wife and his aged mother; 2 brothers, Henry and Theodore and 1 sister, Emma NABOR. Services will be held from St. Paul Lutheran Church of which he was a member. Interment in St. Paul Cemetery.

- PFC Merle HAMMER arrived here Sunday to spend a few days with his uncle, Bert HAMMER, and other relatives. He will also visit in Decatur with William HAMMER, before returning to his camp. Merle was inducted into the service Nov. 11, 1942, and after training in various camps, was shipped overseas April 28, 1943, landing in Oran, Africa. Here he stayed until Jan. 1944, when he was sent to Italy. He was attached to a railroad battalion. On Nov. 7, 1944, north of Rome, one dark night while on duty, he accidentally fell in a shell hole, 20 feet deep, suffering a broken leg. Since that time, he has been in various hospitals. He landed back in the states Feb. 6, and was sent to Camp Pickett, Va., where he is stationed. After being able to throw away his crutches, he was granted a 21 day furlough. PFC Merle wear the African European Theater Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Salerno and Leghorn. Upon his return to camp, Merle thinks he will be assigned to duty in the states.

- Prisoner of the Germans: Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES, of Patoka, received a card from their son, Darwin, who has been reported missing since January. He is being held by the Germans. We rejoice with this family on receiving this news.

- Mrs. Marjorie HESTER spent Monday in Centralia visiting Mrs. Opal COYNE. Tuesday morning going to St. Louis with Capt. Ward WARTBE to take tests and physical for entering the Woman’s Army Corps.

- PFC Fred BOYD of New York is here on furlough.

- PFC Harold LAMBIRD, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter LAMBIRD, Dies of Wounds on Iwo Jima: As announced last week, Mr. and Mrs. Walter LAMBIRD of Meacham twp., received a message from the War Dept. stating their son, PFC Harold LAMBIRD, had died from wounds received in action in Iwo Jima, 9 March. He was in the Marine Corps. Again, our hearts go out to this good family and we extend sympathy in your loss of this noble lad. We know that he was a good boy and we know that he will be sadly missed, like many other lads, when the rest of our boys come marching home. Harold, son of Walter and Minnie MERRITT LAMBIRD, was born Dec. 13, 1921 in Warrenburg, Ill. When just a small lad, he moved with his parents to the present homestead in Meacham twp. Here he acquired his education in Booker School. After finishing school, he helped his father with his farm work for a while and then went to Champaign where he found employment in a foundry. He enlisted in the armed services July 31, 1942 and was sent to the Southwest Pacific Theater in Oct. of 1942. There he fought on Guada canal, Tarwawa, and other islands. In March 1944, he was sent home on a month’s furlough. After his furlough, he was sent to North Carolina, where he remained for 4 months. He was then shipped back to the Southwest Pacific Theater in time to help take Saipan. And died of wounds received in Iwo Jima March 9, 1945. Besides his parents, he leaves the following brothers and sisters: Carl LAMBIRD of Madison, Ill.; Leonard LAMBIRD of St. Peter; Geneva HAYS of Wichita, Kansas; Pauline and George at home. Also an aged grandmother, Mrs. Cora MERRITT of Champaign. Thus closes the life history of another lad who gave his full measure of devotion for his country. His memory will linger on.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL received word Friday that their daughter, Mrs. Kathryn TAYLOR, had given birth to a baby girl, March 13, at Lying-In Hospital in Boston.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Miss Dorothy WANTLAND and Frank JOHNSON were in St. Louis last Thursday attending the funeral of Tommy TUCKER, a cousin of Dorothy and Mrs. Frank JOHNSON.

- Omega (from last week): Woodson SIMER is spending a furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Francis SIPES.

- Ray INGRAM, PhM1c, and Mrs. INGRAM are here from Norfolk, Va. on a 7 day leave, visiting the Frank JONES and I.D. INGRAM homes. Lt. Col. W.C. INGRAM of Hill Field, Ogden, Utah, was here Saturday on his way to Ann Arbor, Mich. for 2 months course schooling.

- Francis KOLB, AMM3c, who is stationed in Glenview, Ill. was here Saturday to visit his aunt, Miss Anna KOLB and other relatives and friends.

- A birthday dinner was given for Miss Marilyn Ann HESTER Sunday, it being her 14th birthday. Those attending were: Phyllis and Betty LANDERS, Fern Ann and Betty FORD, Betty LEWIS, Hilda PARRISH, Billy VALLOW, Donny CHEATUM, Darrell DISS, Charles WHITE, Billy AVERY, and Billy HESTER.

April 5, 1945:

- Here’s a letter from Joseph LOVETT, S1 c, who is sailing the seven seas on LST. Haven’t heard from Joe for some time and here is what he says: I suppose that you think I’ve gotten so far from the states by this time that the mail will not reach me. Well, I’m a long ways away alright, but not that far. First of all, I want to thank you for sending me your paper. I have received quite a few up until the past 2 months and I enjoyed them very much. I enjoyed your Zatso column, for it really took me back to the days when I used to go hunting. I haven’t received any papers in the past couple of months and just suppose they are held up in the mails. Mail isn’t any too regular where I am right now but I shouldn’t be complaining. I am out here where men are men and the women, if they could see them, would be damn proud of them. These are the times that try men’s hearts and either proves him a man or a boy. Most that I’ve seen, disregarding age, have been men. Occasionally you will find a boy among them though; but as a rule not many. Well, I’ve been away from home, I mean Illinois, for about 6 years now and at last I’m homesick. I think that everyone who comes out this way experiences it one time or another. I would give plenty right now to be in the states enjoying myself, but there’s a war being fought and I’m needed as are all the other fellows. As for liberty outside of the states, well, as far as I am concerned, it doesn’t exist. I spent some time in and around Hawaii, went to Honolulu and saw all the places of interest; but I didn’t think it was so wonderful. I haven’t been on liberty since December and haven’t seen a woman in that length of time; in fact, I haven’t seen anyone except the faces around me, quite lonesome, I’ll admit, but really I haven’t missed liberty too much for I’ve been rather busy. Well, I suppose, I’d better bring this rambling letter to a close and get some work done. It’s piled up just now and is just yelling for attention. Thanks again for the paper.

- Mrs. Chas FOX and Mrs. Sue BOWMAN of Salem were hostesses at a dinner party to 20 guests Thursday night at Southern Gardens in Salem given in honor of 1st Lieut. Charlotte HOLT of the Woman’s Marine Reserve Corps, who is home for a week, and is being transferred from Cherry Point, N.C. to Philadelphia, Pa.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Everett BASS, now Somewhere in Germany. Everett is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, former residents of this city. He says: Just a few lines to let you know that I am receiving the paper O.K. I look forward for each issue. I have been in combat several months and I have been in some tough spots. I met one of the boys from near Kinmundy. His name is S. Sgt. Hillard MORRIS. I just had time to talk with him for a few minutes, but we enjoyed our visit very much. He has a mortar squad. I had word from my brother, who was slightly wounded in Manila. He was hit by a sniper’s bullet in the arm, but is still going strong. It will be nice when all of us can come home to our loved ones.

- Lt. Grace ARNOLD Lands Back in States: Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD received word that her daughter, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, landed back in the States after serving overseas. Naturally, they are expecting her home in the near future. Lt. ARNOLD was among the first nurses to be sent to the Western Front. She was returned to the states on account of ill health, and was in South Carolina when she notified her mother of her arrival. We are all very anxious to see Lt. Grace home again.

- District 500 Financially Embarrassed: The Educational Fund of School District No. 500, known as the Kinmundy Community High School, has gotten into such a deplorable condition that it became necessary for the treasurer to call a halt. On Monday morning, the First National Bank was asked not to pay any orders on this district. This fund is now overdrawn in the amount of $4211. Anticipation warrants against the incoming tax has been issued in the amount of $10,800 which is the legal limit. In addition to this, teachers orders in the amount of $8640 are outstanding. It is strictly up to the Board of Education of this district to devise some way of paying orders or stop writing them.

- The Kinmundy twp. election held Tuesday was a quiet affair compared with elections of former years. After the votes were counted that evening, anyone could plainly see that it had been a very good day for the Democrats. For Assessor: R.H. PIGG, (D) over J.H. DISS (R); For town clerk, Wilma BOUGHERS (D); For Justices of the Peace, C.A. BOONE (R) and R.S. ROWAN (R); For School Trustee, G.C. DOOLEN (D) over Guy ARNOLD (R). However in our neighboring twps. of Meacham, Alma, and Foster, went Republican, while Omega when Democratic. In the county as a whole, the Republicans were victorious with complete changes of the complexion of the County Board of Supervisors. This was made possible by Salem and Centralia both electing their entire Republican tickets. This is the first time in 20 years the Republicans have had a majority on the County Board the last being in 1925.

- Mrs. Mabel OLDEN received word from her husband, Pvt. Raymond OLDEN, who is in a hospital in England that his brother, PFC. Bruce OLDEN, had visited him a few hours on March 25. PFC Bruce is in a convalescent hospital in England, and the boys are only a few miles apart.

- S. Sgt. and Mrs. Beryl DISS have a son, Danny Joe, born in Salem Hospital Thursday. The proud daddy is now serving with Gen. Patches SEVENTH, in France.

- Mrs. Lewis JONES underwent aan operation in the Mark Greer Hospital Friday for gall stones. She is getting along fine. Her mother and sister, Mrs. Mary WALKER and Miss Martha, spent the weekend here with relatives and in Vandalia with Mrs. JONES.

- Wilson School (from last week): Francis KOLB, AMM 2 c of U.S.N. called Saturday at the KLEISS home. He is stationed at Glenview, Ill.

- Wilson School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and daughters visited recently in St. Anthony’s Hospital in Effingham with their niece, Miss Delores STOCK, who underwent an appendectomy.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB visited Sunday afternoon at the Bert GARRETT home.

- Meacham (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. John T. BOUSMAN celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 7 at their home. Their children were present and with well filled baskets served a fine dinner at the noon hour.

- Omega: Hugo WAGONER has purchased property here and will go in the garage business as soon as he has repaired the building.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Harriett MILLER is visiting her husband, Pvt. Roy MILLER at a camp in Texas.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Corp. and Mrs. Virgil ROBINSON and children of Camp Fannin, Texas visited Friday and Friday night with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claude HIESTAND and Sammie.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Francis SIPES had all their children with them for a weekend visit, T. Sgt. and Mrs. Woodson SIMER, and Miss Marion SIPES of East St. Louis, Pvt. James SIPES of the armed forces, and Mrs. Glenn BOYD and son of Salem.

- Junior GARRETT, S2 c, of Indianapolis, Ind. spent the Easter weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT.

- Pleasant Grove: Rev. HARD with his family held prayer meetings at some of the homes here last week: Monday night at the Chris MEYER home; Wednesday at the Clyde HIESTAND home, and Thursday night at the Pearl ROSE home. Some interesting thoughts were brought out about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. On account of the inclement weather, the communion services were not held at the Church Friday night. Rev. HARD and family attended the Youth Meeting at Zion on Tuesday night.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde HIESTAND attended a birthday dinner at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy KNISELEY’s last Sunday.

- Pleasant Grove: A musical entertainment will be given by Mrs. Maxine BARKSDALE and her orchestra of music pupils at the Town Hall in Brubaker on Friday night, Apr. 13th. Everyone welcome. Bring cookies or sandwiches and a cup.

April 12, 1945:

- Miss Audrey FRENCH, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William FRENCH of Effingham, and Cpl. George ANGEL, son of Mr. and Mrs. William ANGEL, of Chicago, formerly of Effingham, were married April 1 in the FRENCH home. Miss Virginia WHITE sang, and Ray IMAS was at the piano. Mrs. Joseph RICHARDS and Merle FRENCH were the attendants. About 75 relatives and friends attended the wedding. After a few days with Mr. and Mrs. FRENCH, Cpl. ANGEL and his wife left for Chicago to spend the remainder of his furlough with his parents before returning to Camp Swift, Texas on April 13. He recently returned after 2 years in Iran.

- Lewis BURKETT, 55, died in Hines Hospital, Chicago, on Sunday. The body was brought here on the I.C. train. The body was taken to the home of his sister, Mrs. FATHEREE in Farina. Short services were held there, and then services held at Brown Church in Meacham twp. with interment in Parker Cemetery.

- Posthumous award of the Bronze Star medal by U.S. Army officers to Mr. and Mrs. Paul BRASEL, whose son, PFC Allen BRASEL, was killed in action in Holland last Oct. 5, will be made at 11 a.m. Sunday April 15 at the Alma Christian Church. The medal is awarded for gallantry and unusual courage in action against the enemy. Lieutenants TOLLIVER and MILLER from Chicago will present the medal to Mr. and Mrs. BRASEL at a special service in the Alma Church to be conducted by the Rev. Thomas WILSON, pastor of the Louisville Christian Church. The public is invited to attend this service.

- District 500 Orders Now Good: After a meeting of the Board of Education of School District 500 held Monday evening, a copy of a resolution was handed the treasurer, authorizing him to transfer $5091.24 from the building fund to the educational fund. This amount will be sufficient to take up all outstanding orders.

- Lola Etta ARNOLD GREEN, only daughter of James and Permelia ROBB ARNOLD, was born in Foster twp. on March 18, 1878, and died March 22, 1945 at the Mark Greer Hospital in Vandalia. When young she joined the Methodist Church. She was one of a family of 5 children, 1 dying when small, and 1 brother, Elmer, who died 2 years ago. Two brothers survive, Orie and Sam. On Dec. 31, 1899, she married Samuel Cyrus GREEN, and they had 5 children: Gene of Vandalia; Mrs. Lovell CONANT of Sandy Branch; Mrs. Anna CRAWLEY of Decatur; PFC Russell of Victoria, Kansas; and Agnes of Decatur. Besides her husband and children, she leaves 4 grandchildren: Keith GREEN with the U.S. Navy; Mrs. Velma Jean ROBB, Eli and Rosemary CONANT and 1 little great-granddaughter, Sharon Faye ROBB. Services were held from the Cox and Martin Cemetery with interment in Sandy Branch Cemetery.

- PFC Harry MULVANEY Killed in Action: PFC Harry O. MULVANEY, 20, was killed in action in Germany on March 19, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alf MULVANEY near Bement, learned from the War Dept. Tuesday. He was an infantryman. Private MULVANEY had been wounded in action in France twice - on Sept. 30 and on Nov. 8. He entered service last January and went to Africa in June. The youth was born Sept. 24, 1925, in Kinmundy and went to the Bement vicinity with his parents about 15 years ago. Besides his parents, he leaves 5 sisters and 4 brothers, most of them younger than he is. Private MULVANEY did not attend high school, but helped his father on the farm before entering the service.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ira MERRITT of Meacham twp. received a telegram last week from the War Dept. stating that their son, Pvt. Ira, Jr. had been slightly wounded in action in Germany on March 17th.

- Lt. and Mrs. A.J. POD of Belleville, are the parents of a son born April 4th in St. Elizabeth’s Hospital named Richard William. Mrs. POD is the granddaughter of Mrs. W.W. LOWE of this city.

- Killed in Action: Word has been received by Mrs. Chas. DODSON that her son-in-law, Pvt. Wilbur A. BROOM of Gary, Ind. was killed in action Dec. 20, 1944 in Luxembourg. He was the husband of the former Miss Jessie DODSON.

- Sgt. Howard HAMMER returned to Ft. Sheridan, Wed., after spending 55 days here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER.

- Young School: Mrs. Bertha SEE closed her school at Camp Ground on Saturday. The people of the community gathered at the noon hour with well filled baskets.

- Mrs. Charles HAYS has received word that her husband Sgt. HAYS had arrived safely overseas.

- Wilson School: Mrs. Jess CHARLTON and son, Larry, spent a few days the past week with her sister, Mrs. Romaine MEYERS and family, of near Farina, helping care for the new baby, who arrived recently.

- Miletus: A group of neighboring men met at Union Church near Elder Cemetery Saturday and completed roofing the Church. Interior decorating will be considered at some future time.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Francis SIPES attended the funeral of Isaac ELLIOT Wednesday.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Ralph HIESTAND and Pearl ROSE and family spent Friday evening with Herschel ROSE and family helping Herschel celebrate his birthday. Others present were Mrs. Hazel CHAPMAN and children, Claude ROSE and family, and Ralph ROSE and children.

- Brown: Cadet Midshipman Harold MONICAL spent a few days the past week with his parents, Chas. MONICAL and wife. Harold returned to Long Island, N.Y.

- Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS and Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY went to Decatur Monday to spend a few days with relatives.

April 19, 1945:

- Here’s a short note from Cpl. Edred HANSON, who is now taking in the sights of Honolulu. He says: Received some of your papers today and I wish to take this opportunity to thank you and all my friends in Kinmundy for the paper. I am stationed in the Hawaiian Islands and the weather here is grand. Went for a trip around the Islands and the scenery is beautiful, especially the pineapple fields. There are plenty of cocoanuts, bananas, and sugar cane also. Been to Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, and Waikiki Beach also. I am putting on a slight sun tan. Thanks for everything and I hope to be seeing Kinmundy soon. Best wishes to all.

- Here’s one from PFC Grover VETETO, who was wounded some time ago and is still in a hospital in Italy. The letter was dated 4 April and says: I have been going to write you for some time, but just never got around to it. I am receiving the paper pretty often now and thanks a million for it. It sure makes me feel good to sit down and read the home town news. Keep the good work up as I know the other boys are glad to get the paper, also. We don’t think it will be very long until all are coming home. Boy, the news sure sounds good over here now. The Germans are getting what they deserve. I saw in the paper where there were a lot of people leaving the old town. I sure will be glad to get back home and I’ll not be any more proud than the rest of the boys. Boy, it sure does change a fellow when he is over here for awhile. I hope no more of the boys will have to come overseas. It is not what it is cracked up to be. I had a nice trip coming over, but got pretty seasick. I have seen action and have been wounded in 7 places. But thanks to God, I’m where I can get around again. I was most 3 months in the hospital and was given the best of care. I would like to buy a few things to send home. But prices are so high here that a candy bar costs 100 lire, so you can guess just what you would pay for something of value. There is a lot that I could write about if I was allowed to. But I can say this, that it is not like being at home. Since I have been working in the 6th General Hospital I’ve learned quite a lot. I like it here just fine. I am still nervous from shell shock, but I guess I won’t ever get over it. But can say this, keep the good work up on the home front and we can assure you we will do our part over here and will win the victory. I miss my wife and little boy and all the rest of the boys misses their loved ones. But we have got a job to do and that job we must do. We don’t want to leave it half done where our children will have to come over here and finish it in 20 years from now. And not only we have got a job to do - all of you have got a job and we must put our shoulders together. You might say, well what can we do? The home front has got as much in this war as we have over here. Well, I don’t know much more to write, so will say, good luck to one and all, and thanks again for the paper. Keep it coming. You are doing your part and you don’t know how glad we are to get the news from home.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Everett BASS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, former residents of this city. His letter is dated 4 April in Germany, and says: Just a few lines to let you know that I am still receiving the Kinmundy Express and enjoy it very much. I am Somewhere in Germany. We are forbidden to fraternize with the civilians, but otherwise conditions are not so bad. The scenery is certainly beautiful. The rolling hills, green grass, trees budding, etc. They have small patches of soil plowed here and there and it makes a pattern like quiltwork. Easter has come and gone and I hope by next Easter that all of us can be home with our loved ones. I met Sgt. Hillard MORRIS a few days ago and had a short talk with him. He is looking fine and healthy. It looks as though this war may be over and it sure can’t be too soon. Well, I must say Cheerio to everyone.

- Here’s a V-Mail from PFC Charles VALLOW, dated 8 April, in France, and says: I have been intending to write to you, but I have been kept rather busy here lately. I have been receiving the Express quite regularly, although they are a little late in arriving, I enjoy reading the news from the old home town. The weather here is beginning to get warm and there isn’t any mud to wade through. It should be getting warm at home by now. I just received the February 22nd issue of the Express and I am glad so many of the boys got to come home. From the looks of things we’ll all be home soon. In closing I wish to thank you for the paper and I hope to receive them in the future.

- Mrs. Anna MARLOW has received word that her son, Herma M. has been promoted from the rank of Captain to the rank of Major. Major MARLOW is in Germany.

- Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL of Alma received a message Monday from their son, Sgt. John D., stating that he had been slightly wounded and was in a hospital. Sgt. John is serving in the Southwest Pacific area.

- Duane Jackson HANNA, 19, Seaman, 1 c, son of Mr. and Mrs. R.D. HANNA, R.R. 2, Kinmundy, has completed basic training at the Submarine School, Submarine Base, New London, Conn., for duty with our growing fleet of underseas fighters. He will be entitled to wear the twin dolphin insignia of the Submarine Service after further experience aboard a submarine during which he must demonstrate to his commanding officer that he is fully qualified to carry out the duties of his rate. HANNA joined the Navy last year in January, and graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in May. Naval recruit training was given him at Great Lakes, Ill. The Submarine School, the only one of it’s kind conducted by the Navy, is attended by a picked group of men. The school work takes place not only in classrooms and laboratories, but also in training submarines in which the students master the actual techniques of operating the powerful fighting craft.

- PFC Howard L. ROBB, of Kankakee, is fighting with the Philippine liberation army under Gen. Douglas McARTHUR, allied commander in the Southwest Pacific. PFC ROBB, overseas for more than 20 months, is a telephone operator in the 82nd chemical battalion. This 4.2 inch mortar battalion fought with the XIV corps in several campaigns during the conquest of the Solomon Islands, and in this battle is supporting that corps in all its sectors.

- Word has been received by Mr. and Mrs. E.S. WRIGHT of Alma, that their sons, Cpl. Paul L. WRIGHT, 25, and Pvt. Kenneth A. WRIGHT, 21, have landed safely in Germany. Paul is stationed at the captured Nazi Hospital recently taken by the Yanks. He is married and has a son, 20 months old. His wife, the former Miss Betty THOMPSON, is now residing in Centralia. Kenneth is in the First Army. He had been with the A.E.F. for quite some time until he was transferred. Another son, Cpl. Dale R. WRIGHT, 24, is stationed in Paris. Paul has been in 38 months, Dale, 31 months, and Kenneth, 28 months.

- Charlie WARREN, 71, fell Tuesday morning from a heart attack, on the sidewalk in front of the Bargh Drug Store. Dr. Hugo MILLER was summoned immediately and pronounced him dead. He had been a sufferer of heart trouble for several years. On this particular morning, he remarked to his wife that he felt better than he had for sometime, that he would go after the mail and then help her some with her housecleaning. He had just came out of the post office when he fell.

- Missing in Action: A clipping from the New York Sun, received by relatives reads as follows: "(With Admiral Mitchers’ East Carrier Task Forces, Off Tokyo). A pilot from our own carrier, Ens. Herbert Max SEE of Kankakee, Ill. flying with our first fighter sweep, destroyed a locomotive with blasts from his 50-millimeter guns as he swooped 30 feet above the target. This 24 year old pilot is the son of Guy SEE, of Kankakee, and a former Kinmundy boy and a grandson of Henry SEE, residing south of town. Relatives have received word this lad is now missing in action.

- According to word received here by his wife, Pvt. Charles BERRY, has been promoted to Private First Class and is now in Germany.

- S Sgt. Dale BROOM, of Utah, is enjoying a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. BROOM of Alma.

- Dwight GARNER, W.T. 1 c is enjoying a 30 day leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER and Miss Cora LEE. When his time has expired, he will report for duty at Crane, Ind.

- East Zion (from last week): Lt. Ancel ARNOLD of the Air Force came to Scott Field by plane Sunday and spent Sunday night and Monday with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hobart ARNOLD.

- East Zion (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN and son, Larry, called Sunday night on Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT and daughter, Mrs. Ruth WILLIAMS.

- Omega (from last week): Ed ATTEBURY came to town with 2 horses one day last week, but when he got ready to leave he had 3. One of the horses had a colt while he was shopping.

- Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and children of Sumner spent Sunday here in the L.J. HAMMER and W.F. ROBB homes.

- Wilson School: Jess CHARLTON was re-elected school director at the school election Saturday night.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Claude HIESTAND, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde HIESTAND, and Mr. and Mrs. Ralph HIESTAND were among those calling on Frank HIESTAND at St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia last week. Frank had his foot amputated Wednesday morning.

- Omega: Mrs. Malinda PRESGROVE died in Iowa while she was visiting her sister.

- Pvt. Earl SCHWABE of Missouri is here visiting family.

- Mrs. Carol GARRETT of North Fork District is a patient in St. Anthony’s Hospital in Effingham for examination.

- Sgt. Howard HAMMER left Wednesday for Ft. Sheridan, Ill.

April 25, 1945:

- Here’s another one of those nice letters from Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., dated 13 April, Somewhere in Italy. He says: Would it not be proper to dedicate this letter, this Day to our great COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, who has passed to the Great Beyond. It is a day of sadness for me, for all the members of the Armed Forces and I know the same for the World at Large. The shocking news of the death of our President came to us while at breakfast this morning. Some of the fellows heard the news over BBC and also American stations during the night last night and was verified later. Of course, no one could believe that such a thing could have come about. No one could believe that we could possibly lose our beloved leader at such a critical time! It just couldn’t be! However, in most everything, one can find some consolation, something for which he can be thankful. This sad event could have occurred before or during the Yalta Conference, for we know he wasn’t at all well during that time. His determination, his energy, his will to see the World Affairs righted to peacetime living, made his participation in that historic conference possible. His insight into the future made possible the planning for the San Francisco Conference, which meeting President TRUMAN has already stated will come off on schedule. I have heard several fellows express their grief and sympathy today. Some are saying, "We have 2 Commanders now - one who has just taken over and one who will live in spirit and offer a guiding hand even though he has left us." Everyone seems to take it as a matter of personal loss. Immediately after hearing of the Death of the President this morning, I ordered the flag lowered to half mast. (I happened to be acting C.O. as I was senior officer in camp.) When 2 or more fellows assembled in a group to discuss or mention the news, one could notice deep sorrow. Every now and then you could see a fellow’s eyes moisten and notice his eyes flinch from the salty tears which he was holding back. Our new President has some "big shoes to fill", and he can do it, he must do it, and I’m sure he will do it well. It is difficult to think about any other news today. Do the people at home feel the same way? Some people may think from this letter that I am a staunch Democrat, well, I’m not. I like to think that I want to see a good man in office regardless of his party. Our late President has been somewhat a favorite of mine for a long time for several reasons - for the things he has did without fear of personal reprisal, his ability to make friends with our Allies, and because he is or has been Our Commander-In-Chief. Getting off that subject for the moment, I think I remember seeing you stand around on the Station platform there at Kinmundy time after time watching the people get on and off Train No. 23. That was years ago - yes, from the first time I can remember. I can see you now - tablet and pencil in hand making notes, and, if I’m not mistaken, you were smoking a pipe. Am I right? Well, based on the belief that you are a pipe smoker, and the fact that you are smoking a pipe right now that is so strong, it could "walk alone", I have taken the privilege of mailing a good Italian briar pipe to you. I believe you will find this pipe a good one - good briar and good workmanship, and if you really love a pipe, you will find it a good friend. I bought several of these pipes the other day, and have sent one to Dad, Dick, Dale, Chuck, Walter and 2 of my brothers-in-law. Needless to say, it wasn’t like buying a pocket full of clay marbles, but you would have to pay double or even triple for the same pipe back there. The one you are getting is my favorite style and really intended keeping it for myself, but thought you would enjoy it. We are playing softball several nights a week. The league is made up of several teams in this area and the one on which I am playing is made up of enlisted men and officers. It so happens that I am the pitcher of our team. If only I had the pitching arm of my brother Dick I could show these fellows a thing or two. In three league games, I have pitched, however. I have given one base on balls, and allowed 12 hits. That isn’t so bad for an old man, for a fellow who didn’t start playing softball until after he was 30 years old, do you think? There is nothing else to report from this part of the world, except that I’m doing supply work now as Group Material Officer, am also Inspector, Courts and Boards Officer, Legal Assistance Officer, and just on the side am teaching an Armed Forces Institute Course in Advertising 2 nights a week. As you see all the time that I have free I can’t very well get into any kind of trouble. My regards to all, my sympathies and condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in this conflict, and wishes for a sudden and complete finish to this terrible war.

- There’s one from PFC Charles MEYER, written Somewhere in Germany, but bearing no date. He says: Well, here I got again trying to write a few lines to say hello and let you know that I haven’t forgotten the old gang. I just finished reading one of the papers and you can guess how happy I am to get them. I guess, I’ll finally tell you what outfit I am in after so long a time. I am in the Third Army and am still driving toward victory. I have been wanting to write a lot sooner but could never get around to it. I sure hope nothing has changed around the old hometown. I hope some day to be getting off that boat in New York harbor and hoping I can write sooner next time. Tell everyone, I said hello and I send them all the luck in the world.

- Mrs. Frank HOYT of Salem, but formerly of this city, received word last week, from the War Dept., announcing her son by a former marriage, Pvt. Arthur M. BEALS, was killed in action in Germany 3 April. Pvt. BEALS entered the service July 31, 1944, and was sent overseas in February. He lacked 23 days of attaining his 19th birthday when killed. He was a gunner with the 5th Tank Battalion.

- According to word received here by relatives, Harold W. JONES is now a PFC. He is serving with the 41st Division in the Philippines. The 41st made the initial landing on Mindanao the first of March. Harold has received the Expert Combat Infantry Badge and his regiment has been cited by the President, so he is now entitled to wear the Presidential Citation Medal.

- Charles Wilson WARREN, son of Henry and Mary NICHOLS WARREN, was born in Kinmundy twp. on March 21, 1874, and died in Kinmundy, April 17, 1945. Charlie, as most everyone knew him, lived his entire life in and around Kinmundy, with the exception of a few years spent in Willow Hill, Ill., where he held the position of cashier at the bank. After returning to Kinmundy, he was a carpenter and painter, which work he enjoyed. But a few years ago, on account of ill health, he placed himself on the retired list. He leaves his wife; a son, Lowell; a brother, Harry; and a sister, Margaret. Services were held from the Methodist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- On April 20th, the patrons of North Fork School came at the noon hour with baskets of delicious food to help the teacher, Marjorie GREEN and her pupils, celebrate the last day of school. Everyone enjoyed the delicious dinner and visiting which followed. Those who attended were the families of Clyde, Cecil, and Carroll GARRETT, Dwight BUNDY, Ralph FEATHER, Orie ATKINS, Theodore MOELLER, Claude HANNA, and R.H. GREEN.

- Mrs. Darrell REESE is a patient in the Salem Hospital with a serious kidney poisoning.

- PFC Joe A. BRIMBERRY Awarded Combat Decoration for Heroic Fighting in Italy: With the Fifth Army Italy - PFC Joe A. BRIMBERRY, husband of Mrs. Minnie A. BRIMBERRY, Kinmundy, has been cited by the 88th Mountain Regiment of the 10th "Mountaineer" Division and awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge for actual participation in combat against the enemy of the Fifth Army front in Italy. Standards for the badge are high. The decoration is award to the infantry soldier who has proved his fighting ability in combat. The handsome badge consists of silver rifle set against a background of infantry blue, enclosed in a silver wreath.

- This morning we received the following news release direct from overseas: "Gordon E. SHREFFLER of HQ Btry 334th FA Bn. with the 87th Division in Germany was promoted to the grade of Corp. from PFC 7 April, 45. Soldier’s job in army, Battery Clerk. Relative, Norma SHREFFLER (wife), Kinmundy, Ill."

- Mrs. Gertrude WADE was able to return to the home of her daughter, Mrs. Glen ROBB, in Salem. She was painfully and seriously burned about 3 months ago, and since been confined to Salem Hospital.

- Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER and son, Dwight, and daughter, Coralee, were in Salem Tuesday attending the funeral of Mrs. GARNER’s mother, Mrs. Corabelle GARNER, who died Sunday.

- Mrs. Norma SHREFFLER visited over the weekend in the Marvin CONANT home, with Mrs. Harold ROBB and baby daughter.

- Junior GARRETT of Indianapolis, is confined to the Naval Hospital, a victim of the mumps. Wanda, the GARRETT’s youngest daughter, is at home nursing a case of the mumps.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Ira MERRITT received a letter from their son, PFC Ira Jr. that he was going back on duty after having been in a hospital in France.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Glenn JAHRAUS and family called on Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL, and Sunday callers were Mr. and Mrs. John FORD and Johnnie and Janet of near Alma, and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS.

- Meacham: Saturday morning Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL called on Miss Florence STORRS.

- Prairie Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Art WEISS and daughter attended a family dinner in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thos. NEAL. 46 were present.

- Pleasant Grove: Several from here attended the funeral of Mrs. Malinda PRESGROVE at Lovell’s Grove Tuesday.

- Pleasant Grove: Oran ALDERSON and family, Gene HELM and family, and Ray VANDEVEER, wife and little daughter were visiting Friday evening with Mont RITTER and family helping her father, Will SHAFFER, celebrate his birthday.

- Pleasant Grove: Several from here attended the program at Happy Hollow Friday night. It being the last day of school, a nice program was given by Mrs. Maxine BARKSDALE and her pupils.

- Pleasant Grove: A very large crowd attended the singing convention at Pleasant Grove Sunday afternoon. Glad to have so many churches taking part. Next convention will be held at the Methodist Church in Kinmundy.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Nellie MAYBERRY has received word that her sons, Flory and Cosnrod, are both in Germany, and hope to see each other soon. John SHAFFER and Paul SMITH are reported to be in Germany also.

- Omega: It was reported here last week that Dale CHEELY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Forrest CHEELY, former residents of Omega, has been killed in action.

- Brown: A successful term of school closed Thursday at Brown with Mrs. Opal LUTTREL as teacher. The patrons met at the noon hour with well filled baskets.

- F.O. Frederick A. PRUETT came Sunday and left Wednesday enroute from Reno, Nev. to Nashville, Tenn., and will soon leave for overseas.

- Wilson School: Mildred KLEISS spent Saturday near St. Elmo at a farewell party at the Chris VOGEL home, honoring T.S. Francis RHODES of Altamont who has been overseas for the past 3 years and is returning to duty after a 45 day furlough.

- Pvt. Earl SCHWABE returned Tuesday to Oklahoma to school.

May 3, 1945:

- S. Sgt. Lloyd BAILEY arrived here Saturday from Washington, D.C. to spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY and family. It was a happy reunion of this good family, especially the following day when all the children were home again, a day looked forward to for the past 2 years. Sgt. BAILEY entered the service Dec. 1, 1942. After training in various camps in the United States, he shipped overseas in May 1943, as a paratrooper. He landed in England where he received further training. His outfit crossed into France on D-Day. Near St. Lo, France on July 31, 1944, he was wounded by machine gun battles piercing his leg. He was then sent back to a hospital in England where he recovered. The monotony of this hospital was too much for him after he was well again. And on Aug. 29, he "went over the hill", hitch-hiked a ride across the Channel into France and joined his old outfit in Belgium. On Sept. 25, near Aachean, Germany, he was wounded again by a machine gun bullet entering his right wrist, rendering his army useless. He was again returned to a hospital in England where he received treatment. He landed back in the States Feb. 2, and entered the Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., Feb. 5, where he remained until coming home. We are happy to report Sgt. BAILEY thinks that in time, with the great medical skill in the army, he will regain the use of his hand. And we sure wish him the best of luck with it. He wears the following decorations: Good Conduct Ribbon, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the European Theater of Operations Badge with 3 stars, representing the Battles of Normandy, Southern France and Germany. Sgt. BAILEY says he did not receive our paper regularly after crossing into France as he was on the move too much. But he did receive several, mostly in bunches, which sure looked mighty good to him. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- T. Sgt. Maxey SPENCER arrived here Saturday morning to spend a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall SPENCER and family. Needless to say that he was glad to get home and greet relatives and friends. Sgt. Maxey entered the service Sept. 24, 1941, and trained in various camps in the United States, being attached to the Air Force. He sailed overseas in Aug. 1944, landing in England, where he has since been stationed. But he has seen much of France and Germany from the air. Sgt. SPENCER is an Aerial Engineer on a Liberator (24). He completed 35 missions over enemy territory on March 15th his last mission being over Germany. He left England on April 13th, homeward bound. MAXEY, like all other boys, can tell of hair-raising experiences but as he said he was one of the lucky ones. He didn’t get a scratch on his body although his plane was shot up considerably on several occasions. Maxey wears the following decorations: Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Good Conduct Ribbon, Pre-Pearl Harbor, European Theater of Operations with 2 stars representing the Battle of France and the Battle of Germany, and the American Theater of Operations. After his furlough has elapsed, he will report to Santa Ana, Calif. for reassignment. We are happy to report that he received our paper regularly while overseas. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Technical Sergeant Anson A. HINKLEY is spending a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.O. HINKLEY, in Alma. Sergeant HINKLEY is a Weather Forecaster with the Army Air Forces and for the past year has been stationed at Paramaribo, Dutch Guiana, to which place he will return at the conclusion of his furlough.

- Edward Kerr JUNKINS, son of Austin and Cassandra KERR JUNKINS, was born Aug. 31, 1865 in South Salem, Ohio, and died at his home in Kinmundy on April 29, 1945. When about 15 years of age, he moved with his parents to a farm south of Kinmundy, where they remained for 3 years, moving to Renwick, Ia. There he helped his father farm and also clerked in a store. He afterwards became a butter-maker, locating in Armstrong, Iowa. Here he met and was wed to Miss Sarah FISH on March 29, 1894. The couple lived there a short while and then moved to Bryant, S.D., where he engaged in the grocery and meat business. They had 1 son, Marion. Feeling that winters were just a little too cold in South Dakota, Mr. JUNKINS disposed of his business and moved with his wife back to Kinmundy in 1922, where they have since resided. Here he engaged in farming. For a short time, he had a grocery and meat business also. About 3 years ago, because of age mostly, he placed himself on the retired list. His health was above average for a person of his age until the past winter. About 2 weeks ago he became seriously ill and gradually grew weaker. He died on Sunday. He was a member of the Kinmundy Lodge. Besides his wife, he leaves his son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Marion JUNKINS of Bryant, S.D.; a granddaughter, Dorothy Jean, now a cadet nurse in training in Sioux Falls, S.D.; 3 brothers, Herbert of Cedar Rapids, Ia; Charles of Los Angeles, Cal., and Warren of Hartland, Minn.; and 1 sister, Kate PACKARD of Boulder, Colo. Services were held from Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Charles PERRY, a brother of Guy PERRY of this city, and former owner of the store at Lester, died in the Salem Hospital Sunday aged 60 years, 8 months, and 9 days. Services were held from the Christian Church here with interment in Phillips Cemetery in Meacham twp.

- Helen Marie REESE, infant daughter of PFC and Mrs. Darrell REESE, a still born baby, was born at Salem Hospital April 27, 1945. She leaves her mother, Mrs. Mary REESE, and father, PFC Darrell REESE, who is overseas; also her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse REESE, Mr. and Mrs. Morton MULVANEY and several aunts and uncles. Services were held at Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES of Patoka are rejoicing over word received stating that their son, Darvin, had been released from the Stalag XIA prison in Germany on 14 April. PFC JONES entered service July 1943, shipped overseas in Nov. 1944, and was reported missing Jan. 5, 1945. The parents afterwards found out that he was a prisoner of the Germans. They received 2 cards from him while a captive. Monday morning, they received word direct from him stating that he was freed on 14 April, was O.K., and in GI hands, and hoped to be home soon.

- The relatives and many friends were pleased to learn Sunday that Pvt. Ray OLDEN had landed in New York that morning. He called his wife that evening. It will be remembered that Pvt. OLDEN was wounded a few weeks ago and was sent back to the states to recuperate. We have not learned which hospital he has been assigned.

- Here’s a nice letter from PFC Ralph JENKINS dated 15 April, Somewhere in Germany. ‘Pug’ is a litter bearer in the medics. He says: Well, here I am again. It’s been sometime since I’ve wrote you and thanked you for the paper. Our mail isn’t coming through any too well. But I suppose it will soon. Well, what do you think of the war situation? It looks very good right now. The Ninth Army was reported 17 miles from Berlin and PATTON is running loose again. I don’t think this thing can last much longer. Anyway, I certainly hope not. By the way, I am in the Third Army under old Blood and Guts and my brother is in the Ninth Army. I am away from my company right now; one of my buddies is with me. We are sorta a dispensary for a company of engineers, and also giving first aid when needed. Most of the time I am up with the infantry which isn’t any too good as you probably know. This company of engineers are very good to us; they build bridges, etc. Well, how is everything in the old hometown? I suppose it’s practically the same old thing every day. I haven’t had any mail for almost 3 weeks, but of course, with PATTON driving so much, guess it’s sorta hard for them to get it to us. I would certainly enjoy some letters now. Maybe, I’ll get some today. This town where we are stationed in now is a rather large town. It has 5 German Hospitals. So the first day we pulled in, I went to get some medicine from a German doctor for a boy who has a skin disease. And the hospitals are in bad shape. For instance, they had some of their boys who had wounds and very severe wounds. Well, believe it or not, they didn’t even have enough bandages to bandage their own boys wounds. When we see things like that, we often wonder why they are still fighting. Most of the German civilians are tired of war and are ready to see it end. What a swell day it’s going to be when it is finished. The weather here has been very changeable. We have had some nice weather, but for the past 2 weeks, it’s been mostly cloudy and a little rain now and then. Well, don’t know much more so will close by giving my regards to everyone and thanks a lot for the paper. Keep the press rolling because I know all the boys like to receive your paper.

- Here’s one from Cpl. John W. McCULLEY, dated 17 April, Philippine Islands. John was celebrating his fourth anniversary in the army the day he wrote this. He says: It has been some time since I have wrote you so will take a little time out today to do so. How is everybody around the old hometown? O.K, I hope. I am all O.K. myself. I sure would like to get back there and see everyone again. Maybe this war won’t last much longer and we can all get home. I hope so. Four years ago today I reported to the induction center in Chicago for 1 year of training. It’s been a long year traveling and seen a lot of sights in those last 4 years and I tell you and everyone else there is no place like Kinmundy, Ill. I’ll try to tell you a little about this place now. I am sure if you could visit this place you would be a big disappointed, I was. Of course, the war has changed things here a lot too. When we first arrived here, some of the people didn’t have enough clothes to wear and nothing to eat. A lot of their homes were burned to the ground and the most of the town was burned out. Some of the people here can speak pretty fair English. Rice farming here is the main occupation. All the work is done by carabaos. There are a few civilian cars over here. These were buried in the ground and hid from the Japs. The Japs took over all cars and trucks they could find. The people live in small bamboo shacks with 2 or 3 small rooms. There are all the way from 6 to 20 people living in 1 house. They have 2 seasons a year here, wet and dry. The rainy season is about ready to start now and will last until August or September. We get paid in Philippine pesos here. A peso is worth 50 cents in our money. Here awhile back our battalion found about 6 tons of Philippine silver coins. The Japs took all this money away from the people and hid it out in the hills. I also have some of the Jap invasion money the Japs used here. Every where the Japs went they used different money. When we were in the Netherlands, East Indies, we got paid in Dutch guilders. A guilder was worth 53 cents in our money. I have a Jap ˝ guilder too, that I will send you with this other money. The Kinmundy papers are a little slow in getting over here to us, but guess we will get them sometime. Everyone enjoys reading the letters from the other boys in the service and also in your Zatso column. Guess I had better close and get my fox hole fixed for tonight. Tell everyone hello for me.

- Here’s one from Victor YATES RM3 c, dated 18 April, in the Philippine Islands. Victor sails the seven seas and just happened out that way. He says: Well, I guess it’s about time that I wrote the letter which I promised to do over a year ago. I kept putting it off waiting for something interesting to write about. Since I left the States I have had 2 months duty in the Admiralities; the temperature was over 100 degrees about all the time I was there, and the rain came down in streams. For my part the Aussies can have it and no complaints from me. We flew into the Philippines and though it is not like Meacham twp., I like it O.K. The people are interesting and if you ask enough questions they give a fair story on the way the Japs treated them. From what I gathered, I guess it wasn’t very pleasant and they want to forget it. I have watched several cock fights in the towns around here and it’s quite a show. The whole population turns out to watch them. If you think people at a close ball game or a horse race gets excited, you should see these people at a cock fight. Well, I’ll have to go now. Thanks for the paper and hello to everyone.

- Here’s a nice letter from PFC See MILLICAN, dated 15 April, in the Philippines, telling us something about these islands. He says: Hello Norris, I have been intending to drop you a few lines for some time but have been quite busy over here as one tiny cog in this machine, called the Army, trying to help get the Nips out of this section of the Philippines. All in all I think the boys have done a pretty good job. Last week I received my first Kinmundy Express dated sometime in December and yesterday along came 3 more copies. Needless to say, I read them from cover to cover. I was especially interested in the letters from the boys in the service. Sure is nice to know where they all are as one never knows when one may run into some of the fellows. Perhaps you would like to know something about the Philippines, so here goes: We are in a rural section with farming the main occupation. The farmers here use very primitive methods but get some results in a meager sort of way. They raise corn, rice, tobacco, vegetables and sugar cane. The principle crop is rice however. The farmers use a water buffalo to pull their one handled wooden plows which resemble our single shovel. Rope traces with a yoke for a collar which fits over the hump of the water buffalo are hitched to a singletree in order to pull the plow. The Filipino farmer drives with one line which is attached to the nose of his beast of burden. He flips it from side to side to move his animal either to the right or left as the occasion demands. The field in this section are small compared to our fields but they are large enough to occupy the Filipino farmers’ time. The most common mode of transportation here is a 2 wheeled top buggy drawn by small horse about the size of our shetland ponies. Some of these buggies and horses are decorated in a gala fashion. The harness is trimmed with a great deal of silver and other shiny metal. The buggies are decorated with colorful designs and chrome plate. These little buggies sometimes haul a many as 6 people. It looks to me as if the people should get out and carry the horse but the horse doesn’t seem to mind and trots merrily down the road. The farmers use a 2-wheeled cart for transportation sometimes covered, sometimes not, drawn either by a water buffalo or a steer resembling an oxen. Since being over here I have had the opportunity to visit several schools; both city systems and rural schools which are called Bario schools. Their schools are patterned after ours but by no means come up to our standards. The elementary schools teach only the first 6 grades then their pupil enters their high school. They have no compulsory education law here as yet so only those go who wish to. Because of this there seems to be a greater number of girls in school. The teachers here are doing a swell job though as they have practically nothing to work with in the form of books, equipment, or teaching aids. Maybe they will have a couple of books in a class of some 30 pupils. The school buildings are quite nice though with large class rooms and plenty of them. A music class was very interesting especially the classes in music. The pupils sang both their native tongue and also in American. The Filipino is very fond of music. A Filipino funeral was quite an odd sight to me. A band proceeds the casket. The band plays fast snappy music if the person is young and slow dirge like music for an elderly person. The younger the person the more snappy the music. We have better roads here than in New Guinea. A great number of the main roads are paved with the secondary roads graveled. They have a great number of dirt roads. As is always the case, the army is helping by putting in bridges and maintaining and rebuilding roads. Once in a while we see civilian cars which are quite an oddity after seeing so many army vehicles. Since things have quieted down a bit, we are having movies 3 times a week. We are lucky and have our own projector. A few nights ago we saw "A Guy Named Joe", an old picture but one that I for one had never seen before. We get some good pictures some of the time, but good or bad most every one goes as it is about the only entertainment that we have. Of course, we can go on pass to some of the towns around here but after you have seen one, you have seen them all. The general hangout of most of the servicemen is the Red Cross. Every town of any size has one with nice looking Filipino girls dressed in green uniforms and wearing their gold A.A.C. pins. The Red Cross gives out sandwiches, hot coffee and ice cold coke. Church facilities are fairly good here. I have been able to attend Church every Sunday since being over here. We have a nice chapel constructed of bamboo framework and a roof of nipa shingles. Nipa is a tall grass somewhat like our prairie or slough grass that the farmers used to cover their ricks of threshed redtop. The sides of the Chapel are made of some sort of thatch work which comes half way to the eaves. The balance of the wall is left open with the exception of one end which has improvised venitian blinds made of split bamboo to keep out the sun. From the news in your paper, it looks as if you nimrods had a little difficulty in getting shells this year for the hunting season. I suppose that the fellows in the European theater and over here too are getting most of the powder and shot that is produced in the states just now. By the time this reaches you it will be garden planting time. Sure makes me a bit homesick to be in my own garden once again but then I suppose there are millions of other fellows that feel the same way. Norris, again thanks a million for the Kinmundy paper which brings a fellow mentally closer to home. Best wishes to you and your family.

- School Notes: The Carnival, sponsored by GAA, was Friday night. It was attended by a large crowd. Eli CONANT and Mary McGUIRE from the Junior Class, were crowned King and Queen by the second place Freshman candidate, Jean ALEXANDER and Bill AVERY. Dancing followed the crowning. The GAA netted $265 on the Carnival, which, is to be used to send girls to camp in June. Bob FORD, Norma MILLER, and Arlene ZIMMER are the latest victims of the mumps. Jane HESKETT and Louise GREEN are back at school after a week’s absence with them. A member of the Senior Class, Bob JENKINS, was accepted for the Navy last week after one previous examination.

- Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT were Salem callers Tuesday afternoon.

- East Zion (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD and Mrs. Eli GREEN attended the funeral Saturday in Shobonier for Mrs. ARNOLD’s brother-in-law, Fehran LOPE, who died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Lucy IRWIN.

- Mr. and Mrs. Francis HAMMER and daughter, Barbara Kaye, had as their guests, Sunday, Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER and Miss Beulah DISS, the occasion being Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER’s 31st wedding anniversary.

- Sgt. Rex GAMMON and T3 Xon ALEXANDER are both stationed in India. After receiving one another’s address from homefolks, they looked up and found that they were stationed only 8 miles apart. Now their ballteams are playing each other. We can imagine these are happy occasions for Rex and Xon.

- Mr. and Mrs. Paul SWIFT have a son, Mark Eugene, born in Vandalia Hospital on April 26.

- Gail, the 4 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Merle KLINE had a tonsillectomy in Vandalia Hospital last Friday.

- Mr. and Mrs. Harry BURGE have a boy born Saturday at Salem Hospital.

- Mr. and Mrs. J.C. McCARTY celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary April 22. The following children were present: Chas. L. McCARTY and family of Harvey; Mr. and Mrs. Sam FAHRENBACHER of Olney; B.E. McCARTY, wife and daughter of Salem; and Glenn McCARTY and family.

- Mr. and Mrs. Orval GORDON have received word from the son, Pvt. Junior GORDON, that he was sent to the Regional Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. Latest report was he is getting along fine and hopes to be back at camp in 90 days.

- Brown: Mr. and Mrs. Ora RITTER received word that their son, Pvt. Francis RITTER, has returned to Virginia. Pvt. RITTER is recovering from wounds received in action in Germany.

May 10, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Paul PARRISH, SC2 c, who is aboard the USS Claburne, dated 29 April. He says: Through Clem LOVELL of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, a shipmate, I received the clipping which made mention of the home town boys. We all read it with a great deal of interest and appreciate your acknowledgment. I would like to clarify LOVELL’s identity. He is the son of Nicholas LOVELL, of South Bend, Ind., who is a former resident of Kinmundy, and brother of Mrs. William WHITTENBURG. To date we haven’t received a copy of the "Kinmundy Express", but feel sure that it is enroute and will catch up with us in the very near future. Needless to say, it is a source of information about the people which we are interested in and it affords us a great deal of pleasure to read news about our old home town and it’s activities. From news bulletins, which we have access to and news broadcasts it looks like the war with Germany is fast drawing to a close. In this theater of war, progress is being made at a fast clip, and I believe that Japan will capitulate in the not too distant future. Being a very small part of the Navy, I don’t think I am the least bit optimistic in my beliefs. I join with the other millions of fellows in hoping it will soon end and we can return home and enjoy the privileges of being a civilian again. I am still making it a point to see that the boys keep their waist line. There are no under-nourished sailors on the Cleburne. Jessie HESTER, Mickey McCOY, Clem LOVELL, and myself join in extending you our best regards.

- Here’s a V-Mail from Chap. (1st Lt.) Walter B. PRUETT, dated 2 May, Somewhere in France. He says: Here is my new address. I have finally reached a post after traveling around from spot to spot for 2 months like lost sheep. I haven’t seen a copy of the paper since I left home but have hopes of getting a whole pile of them soon. Our outfit is at present in a lovely private park in France. It has snowed where I have been every day for the last 5 days, which seems to be unusual for this season of the year. Hope this finds you well as well as busy.

- Mrs. A.J. JACKSON, of this city, has received word from relatives that her nephew, Col. Glenn E. DUNCAN, Houston, Texas, who was reported missing July 1, 1944, is now back with his old outfit in England. Col. DUNCAN was a captive of the Germans and escaped, making his way back to England.

- The farm home of Mr. and Mrs. Guy SHAFFER in the Elder School District, was completely destroyed by fire Sunday afternoon. It was evident that a spark from the flue caught the roof on fire. The family had finished their dinner. Mr. SHAFFER was lying on a day bed reading his paper. The son, David, was also enjoying a siesta. Mrs. SHAFFER was washing the dishes. She looked out the window and saw smoke. She stepped outside and saw the whole roof ablaze. She roused the men folk and called for help from the neighbors, who soon responded. The fire department was called from Salem, but when they reached the scene, all they could do was save the outbuildings. A good deal of the furniture was saved from the downstairs, but very little from the upstairs. The only bed saved was the one down stairs. Now Mr. and Mrs. SHAFFER are at home in their summer kitchen, but David is at the mercy of the neighbors for a place to sleep. We are truly sorry for this good family and we know they have the sympathy of the entire community.

- Cpl. Charles W. GARRETT, who has spent 3 years overseas, arrived here last night to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and family.

- Mr. and Mrs. Dan HIESTAND have a daughter, Nellie Mae, weight 8 lbs., born May 6th.

- Relatives and friends here have received word of the promotion of Capt. Clyde Bradley CAMERER, medical director of the U.S. Navy, to the rank of Rear Admiral. Admiral CAMERER was born and reared in Kinmundy, the only son of the late Dr. and Mrs. J.D. CAMERER, and a grandson of the late Dr. BRADLEY, a former resident of this community. Admiral CAMERER has spent 41 years in the Navy and traveled to almost all parts of the world. Recently, a hospital at Parris Island, South Carolina, was erected under his supervision. He was then sent to the Great Lakes Naval Station. About 2 months ago, he was sent to the west coast and is now in the Philippines. Mrs. CAMERER is a sister to Mrs. W.S. PRUETT of this city. Admiral and Mrs. CAMERER spent a few days here recently while they were enroute to the West Coast.

- The 7th War Loan Drive opens May 14 and extends thru June 30, 1945. The goal is 14 billion dollars.

- After more than a week of anxiety, V-E Day was announced at 8 o’clock Tuesday morning by President TRUMAN. This was the news everyone had awaited for the past 3 years, and more especially the past week, since it was announced a week ago Saturday that everything was in readiness. In our community, there was not the hilarity that one would suppose. Nor as it so in our surrounding communities. Most every community had made plans before hand. The places of business closed for the day. The schools were dismissed. And a goodly number were present at the church services held especially for the occasion. Others were seen going to the church of their faith, where there were no public services being held, and offered prayers before their altar. The radio carried appropriate programs throughout the day. It was a happy occasion in a way. We are all happy in the thought that one half of the war is over with for which we all give thanks. We are happy to think that now some of our boys will be permitted to return home. And yet, we are sad when we think of some of our boys that will never return. For this reason, we could not be hilarious. Now we are looking forward to a more happier occasion when a V-J Day is declared. But until then, we must go on and do our best. The more we do, the sooner this day will come. President TRUMAN has proclaimed Sunday, May 13, as a day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, and urges everyone to go to the church in your community, the churches of Kinmundy bid you welcome. Let’s all join in making this a great day of prayer and thanksgiving.

- Pic of the Month: Gasoline Scarcity is the least of Tec 5 Joe VALLOW’s worries when the 6:4 65 pound NEWS photographer decides to go touring in an army jeep. Joe here with demonstrates his ability to utilize a "scooter" technique as means of propulsion despite a bone-dry fuel tank. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Charles PERRY, son of William and Sadie PERRY, was born in Marion Co., Ill. on Aug. 21, 1884. He married Nora Margaret ALLEE on Jan. 29, 1908, and they had 3 children: Alberta, Ralph, and a child which passed away in infancy. His wife died July 19, 1943. Chas., as he was known, leaves 2 children; 1 brother, Noah of Davenport, Iowa; 1 half-brother, Guy of Kinmundy; 1 half-sister, Goldie STOKELY of Salem; 3 grandchildren, Gloria Lee and Jack David PERRY of Peoria, and Joan ABERNATHY of Salem. He died in Salem Hospital on April 29, 1945. Services were held from the Christian Church in this city with interment in Phillips Cemetery.

- Mr. and Mrs. Geo. COLE and daughter, Joan, Mr. and Mrs. H.M. FISHER, Mrs. Rea GARDEN, Miss Pauline BAGOTT and J.A. HOLT were in Salem Saturday attending the funeral of Paul T. WILLIAMS, who died Thursday. Interment was in the family lot in Hoopeston, Ill. He had been seriously ill for several months. He is survived by his wife; 2 sons, Paul, Jr. who is serving with the armed forces in Italy, and Bailey with the Navy in the Pacific. The WILLIAMS made their home in Kinmundy for 3 years before moving to Salem.

- First Lieut. Charles W. MORGAN, 879th Bombardment Squadron; 499th Bombardment Group, Air Corps, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross on April 2, 1945, while participating in aerial flight on 27, Dec. 1944. Lieut. MORGAN was airplane commander of B-29 type aircraft which had accomplished a bombardment of a target on the Japanese mainland. He observed that 1 aircraft of the formation had been disabled due to enemy action and had lost altitude and speed as a consequence thereof, so he executed a series of slow turns to render any possible aid or assistance. When 3 enemy fighter aircraft commenced an attack on the disabled airplane, Lieut. MORGAN fearlessly executed 180 degree turn back toward the Japanese mainland to ward off the attacks of the helpless aircraft which was easy prey for the fighters. By the quick and well directed firepower of his aircraft, the attacking fighters were repelled. He then proceeded to escort the disabled aircraft to a point where attack from the enemy would not be forthcoming. By his quick and decisive action, Lieut. MORGAN affected the safe return of a combat crew and airplane which would presumably have been lost to enemy action. The outstanding courage and professional skill demonstrated by Lieut. MORGAN reflects highest credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Lt. Charles if the only son of Dr. and Mrs. Maurice MORGAN of Oklahoma City, Okla. Charles spent his early childhood here with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W.H. MORGAN, and spent 4 years in our grade school. He and his bride were visitors in the MORGAN and MAULDING homes before he left for overseas.

- Wilson School (from last week): Miss Elsie TOCKSTEIN closed a very successful term of school here on Friday. The patrons, teacher, and pupils enjoyed a wiener roast on Eura SHAFFER’s farm.

- Meacham (from last week): Cpl. Carl CRAIN returned to Fort Sheridan Monday to report to duty after a 45 day furlough.

- Meacham (from last week): Friday was the last day at Booker School, and the teacher, Miss Iris BROWN and pupils took their dinners. Mr. Ira MERRITT drove them to Bryan Memorial Park in Salem.

- Omega: Chas. LANE, who is home on furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ross LANE of Brown District was in Omega Saturday.

- Shriver School (from last week): The school term closed at Shriver School Tuesday. The teacher, Mrs. Anna MARLOW, served ice cream and cake to the children.

- Young School (from last week): Mrs. Eva SOLDNER closed a successful term of school at Young School last Thursday. She and the pupils enjoyed a wiener roast. She has been re-hired to teach our school the coming year.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Meadow Branch School closed Friday with Will GREEN as teacher.

- Young School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde MULVANEY and Mr. and Mrs. Roger MULVANEY received word that their brother, Burdette, was wounded in action. We hope that his wounds are not serious.

- Pleasant Grove: Frank HIESTAND died at St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia Monday.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Amy SIPES reports that her son, T. Sgt. Woodson SIMER, is now in Michigan at the Percy Jones Hospital.

- East Zion: Miss Lulu Mae BLACK, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wes BLACK, and Kenneth NEILSON of the army, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chris NEILSON, were married Saturday. Miss Leah Pearle WALTON and Donald Paul ADAMS were the attendants. A kitchen shower and charivari will be held Saturday night at the home of the bride’s parents.

- Brown: Ora RITTER, wife and son, Mont, and Mrs. Francis RITTER and daughters, spent the weekend in Tennessee to see Pvt. Francis RITTER, who is stationed there.

- Brown: Charles LANE of the U.S. Army is spending furlough with his parents, Ross LANE and family.

- Mr. and Mrs. James NEAVILL went to Chicago Saturday to attend the funeral of her father, Chas. BRAND, who died Friday.

- John SEE of the U.S. Navy arrived here Tuesday to spend a few days with his mother, Mrs. Margaret GRAY.

- Mr. and Mrs. W.T. PHILLIPS, Mrs. Blanche KENNEDY, and Mrs. Sherrill VANDEVEER were in Bloomington Thursday attending the funeral of their uncle, Scott PHILLIPS.

May 17, 1945:

- Here’s another one of those good letters from Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., dated 4th May, Somewhere in Italy. He says: The battle of Italy has ended. After 22 months of bloodshed, sweat, dust, rain, mud, and mountains, the 5th and 8th Armies have completed their liberation. They have scoured every foot of Italian soil from the beaches of Gela and Licata in Sicily to the Swiss and Austrian frontiers. They have crossed turbulent rivers, high snow capped mountains, deadly mine fields, broad coastal plains where every move was registered by the Germans from their vantage points of the surrounding mountains. The victory is a great one, indeed, even though so many people discounted the importance of the campaign in relation to the overall picture and even though there has been much criticism of the campaign because of long periods of stalemate. The composition of these 2 armies is history in itself. The many nationalities of people who have worked, who have fought, and who have died side by side throughout the rugged campaign, is symbolic of the instinctive desire for freedom. A few months ago I was present at a review which was being given for a high ranking officer at which there was a representative of every nationality fighting in Italy. There were Scottish Bag Pipers, American White Soldiers, American Negros, Brazilians, Welch, English, Indians, Canadians, Poles, Italians, Italian Partisians, American born Japanese, French (including French Colonial troops.) This gives one the idea of the desires capabilities of freedom loving peoples to stamp out the oppressors. It displays an attitude of teamwork, fair play and love of principles for which it is worth dying. The news of the German surrender in Italy came as a natural course of events, since we had so thoroughly disorganized and annihilated the remaining German troops here. Instead of a time for rejoicing, for loud parties, for drinking, and for excitement, most everyone took the news calmly. There seemed to be a sigh of relief, a let-down feeling, and an inner satisfaction that each one had done his job well and was grateful for final victory. We, as a Group (the soldiers), who are living are grateful to God for sparing their lives. For those who have given theirs all in this conflict, we offer our prayers and to their loved ones, our sympathies. We pray that their sacrifice may help pave the way for a better world, a peaceful world, a world where our sons and daughters may live in freedom from fear. To some of us, perhaps this Italian victory means that we are closer home. To others it means only the beginning for there are other bloody-tough battles to be fought on the other side of the world. Our remaining enemy after the Germans have quit, and are even worse, more ruthless and inhuman, if such is possible. This last statement, at this time, doubtful after all we have heard and read about German atrocities in Concentration Camps and Prisoner of War camps. We hope against hope that we may be allowed to have a short sojourn with our families at home before going to the Pacific, if we are destined to go there, but our fate, as in the past, is in the hands of our leaders who are able to see the broader picture. They have done such an outstanding job in the past that we are fully confident in their every action! So many of us have been away from home for such a long time that we would appreciate the chance to become acquainted with our families again. At this moment we are waiting - waiting for the final surrender in Europe, which seems inevitable and in the very near offing. It’s a strange feeling! It’s a new, yet coveted experience! We know it’s coming - what will we do when the news is flashed? Of one thing we are sure - we will have a special prayer service to offer thanks for our victory and ask for courage, strength, and willpower to complete the worldwide tasks of subduing our oppressors. To the people at home, we hope your thoughts and prayers are the same. We hope your actions are in keeping with our own. We hope you celebrate - not too loudly - but sincerely, keeping in minds that we are facing more war and complete victory is possible only through your continued efforts of production and sacrifice. You have done such a grand and enormous job at home! Goodness knows why I have written this letter, except that such new experiences have brought many thoughts to my mind. You will read about all of what I have said in the newspapers and hear it over the radio, but perhaps this letter will be just a little more personal. I think my words are in keeping with what many others would like to say, or wished to have said. This Italian was, or has been, our own "little" battle for a long time. It has been pushed to the background in the news many times because of flashy and outstanding accomplishments elsewhere but there is nothing in the world that can ever convince us that we haven’t played an important role in this final overall victory. To the 3rd, 36th, 45th, and 82nd Airborne Divisions, all of whom have fought in Italy and who are now helping clean up the Western Front. We must include in our salute to "gallant forces" who made our Italian victory possible. We in the Air Forces claim some credit, but our hats are off to those ground force fellows who have been taking it day and night for these long 22 months. Why feeble words cannot express my thoughts, so why say more?

- Here’s a dandy letter from Sgt. Roy DAVIS of Camp Howze, Texas, dated 8 May. We believe the most of you will remember Sgt. DAVIS as he was reared in this community. He says. It is always pleasure to get the Express and read of the "goings-on" of the folks back home. You have maintained the paper at it’s same high standard, and you deserve commendation for that, during these hectic times. May 1st was my 8th wedding anniversary. Now I know it is seldom the Army makes a fuss over such occasions, but they did on this one. They came thru with another stripe on that day, so when I called Evelyn (my g.m.) on the phone that night to have our little anniversary chat I had good news for her. I’m in a sort of a predicament, however. Without my actually having told him so, my little son has come to believe a Corporal is the highest ranking fellow in the whole army. And now I’m going to have to convince him that a Sgt. is even higher. Oh the faith of a little child. Had a nice visit with Walter B. PRUETT during the few short weeks he was Chaplain at this post. He is the first Kinmundy fellow I have run across since I have been in the service and it was sure good to see him. Too bad he was ordered overseas as soon as we had hopes of being together a lot, and talking over old times. Regards and best wishes to all.

- John SEE, RM2 c, arrived here on Tuesday of last week and gave his mother, Mrs. Margaret GRAY, a surprise visit. He returned to his ship Monday. A rather short stay but they were both very happy, more especially as it permitted them to be together on Mother’s Day. John looks fine and says he feels the same way. John entered the service in Feb., 1942, and after completing his boot training at San Diego, Calif., went aboard the USS Pawnee, a fleet tug. He saw service on this ship for more than a year and was then transferred to the USS Antietam, a carrier. He has sailed the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the Carribean Sea. He has just returned from the latter. John wears both the American-European Theater and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbons, the latter containing 3 stars, representing the battles of Bougainville, New Georgia Group, and Treasury Island. We are all glad to see John and only hope that we can see him again, soon, for keeps. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Again Cupid’s arrow has struck it’s mark. May 12, 1945, Miss Marjorie HUDDLESTON of Salem, and Cpl. Albert D. CORRELL of the A.A.F., Pueblo, Colo., were married at the Army Air Base in Pueblo. Attendants were Mrs. Adina LEMAY of Kinmundy, a sister of the groom, and Cpl. Francis FERREE of the A.A.F., Pueblo. The bride is daughter of Mrs. Hattie HUDDLESTON of Omega, and the groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL of this city.

- Mrs. Orville DISS received a "Mother’s Day Greeting" by cablegram from her son, Sgt. Beryl DISS, who is in Germany.

- Mrs. C.R. ALDERSON received a cablegram Sunday from her son, Leland B. ALDERSON, Somewhere in Belgium.

- Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON received word last week that her son, S. Sgt. Benjamin Neil JOHNSON, and WAC Cpl. Gloria MATTHEWS of Chicago, were married May 5 at Hempstead, N.Y. in the Old Methodist Church. They were attended by S. Sgt. Frank EQUINDA and WAC Evelyn PARADISE. Both bride and groom are stationed at Mitchell Field, N.Y., where they are attached to the Personnel Dept. Before entering the service in Oct. 1942, Neil was employed in this office as the linotype operator.

- Cpl. Carl CRAIN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN, was given a discharge under the newly established point system at Fort Sheridan Saturday morning. He was the 5th boy to receive his discharge in this manner from Fort Sheridan. He had a total of 113 points, 85 being the necessary number for a discharge. Cpl. CRAIN entered the service Aug. 20, 1940, and shipped overseas Feb. 19, 1942, landing in Iceland. There he remained until Aug. 1943, when he entered the European Theater. He wears the Pre Pearl Harbor Ribbon and the American Theater of Operations containing 4 battle stars on Temporary Duty in March. Since that time he has been visiting with his parents. On 4 occasions, his furlough was extended a few days. At that Carl said he hadn’t got caught up with his visiting and was very happy indeed, to receive his discharge. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Kenneth E. JACKSON, ARM3 c, and wife, Mrs. Jack HONN and 2 children, Miss Helen JACKSON of Champaign and Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS and children were Mother’s Day guests at the A.J. JACKSON home.

- Pvt. Wilbur BROOM Killed in Action: Pvt. Wilbur Arthur, son of the late William and Thelia Belle CROWN BROOM, was born in Alma, Ill. on Feb. 9, 1914 and was killed in action in Luxembourg, Dec. 20, 1944. He grew to manhood in Alma and on Nov. 6, 1937, married Miss Jessie DODSON, of this city. Soon after their marriage, they went to Gary, Ind., where he had employment. He entered the armed services on Oct. 13, 1943. He was shipped overseas in Aug. 1944, landing in England. From there he was taken into France, Belgium, Germany, and Luxembourg. A telegram received by the widow on Jan. 19th, stated that he was "Missing in Action 20 December". No more word was received until on April 5th when she received another telegram from the War Dept. stating that he was "Killed in Action, 20 December." Besides his wife and mother, he leaves 2 sisters, Mrs. Carrie BROOM, Alma, and Mrs. Lavina SHUFELDT, Iuka, and 4 brothers, Roy, St. James, Ill.; Paul, Chester, Ill., Frederick, Missouri, and Riley, Gary, Ind. The widow, Mrs. Jessie BROOM, has been visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. DODSON, in this city, for the past 2 weeks. Memorial services will be held sometime in the near future. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Junior BARGH, son of Mrs. Mildred BARGH, left Tuesday for Chicago to be inducted into the armed forces. Junior has been attending the University of Illinois. He gave up his studies Friday that he might spend a few days at home before his induction.

- Cpl. Charles W. GARRETT better known to his many friends as "Bill" arrived here on Wednesday of last week for a visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT. He was shipped back to the states on "Temporary Duty" and will enjoy 45 days at home. This is Cpl. GARRETT’s first trip home since he was inducted in the service on Jan. 13, 1942. He received his basic training at Fort Bliss, Texas, and was shipped overseas in May 1942, landing in Australia. From there he went to New Guinea on Aug. 17, 1942, where he remained until he started homeward. He left New Guinea on March 31st last and landed in the states May 3rd. He reached home on May 9. He was a member of the 9th Airborne Anti-Air Craft Battalion. Cpl. GARRETT wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with three starts representing the Papaun Campaign, The New Guinea Campaign, and the East Indies Campaign. He also wears the Presidential Citation as well as six service stripes on his sleeve. He has two brothers in the service, Sgt. Marvin, an aerial engineer in the Air Corps, who is on duty on the west coast, and Berthol Junior, S2 c, stationed in Indianapolis, Ind. A family reunion was held in the parents’ home Sunday and all children were home except Sgt. Marvin. There is no need to say that Cpl. GARRETT was mighty glad to get home after an absence of 40 months and we are all mighty glad to see him, just the same as we are to see any of the boys back. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. O.K. MILLER and Dr. Hugo MILLER left Monday for Bradenon, Fla., where they will make their home. We are truly sorry to see these people leave us and only hope they will soon see fit to return. Dr. MILLER has rounded out 50 years of practicing medicine and feels that he is now entitled to take life easy for awhile, at least. The doctor did not tell us officially that he "pulled down his shingle", so we rather expect to see him back in the harness again, just as soon as he has found the "Fountain of Youth".

- Pvt. Ray OLDEN arrived here last Thursday evening to spend a furlough with his wife and children, as well as the rest of the homefolks. His wounds appear to be healed with the exception of his left arm which is still in a cast. Pvt. OLDEN entered the service on June 14, 1944, and after training in various camps, was shipped overseas in Jan. 1945. He landed in England and was taken from there into France and then into Germany. On Feb. 23, near Hambach, Germany, a shrapnel exploded near him, wounding him in the throat, back and left arm. He was sent to a hospital in England on March 2. He left there April 14th, landing in New York on April 28th. From there he was sent to the Theyer General Hospital, Nashville, Tenn., where he is now a patient. While in England, Ray and his brother, Bruce, who was also wounded and a patient in a hospital nearby, were permitted to visit each other. Pvt. OLDEN wears the Expert Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the American-European Theater Ribbon with one star, representing the Battle of Germany and the Purple Heart. He will visit here until May 24th and then report back to his hospital. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and Mr. and Mrs. W.H. HILL have erected beautiful memorial on their family lots in Evergreen Cemetery in honor of their sons, Sgt. Harold KLEISS, who died of wounds in Belgium on Dec. 19, 1944; and Pvt. William HILL, who was killed in action in Luxembourg, Oct. 7, 1944. The KLEISS memorial stands in the Catholic Cemetery while the HILL Memorial stands on the MERCER lot on the east side of the cemetery. The next time you visit the cemetery, view these beautiful memorials.

- A Daughter: Born to S. Sgt. and Mrs. Marvin BASSETT, a baby daughter, May 14, at the Salem Memorial Hospital. The little Miss weighs 6 lbs., 5 1/4 ozs. and is named Donna Marlene. S. Sgt. BASSETT is serving in the 15th Army, Somewhere in Germany. Mrs. BASSETT was formerly Miss Nellie Fern BELCHER of Patoka.

- Cadet Annette VALLOW of St. Louis spent Friday and Saturday here with homefolks.

- Mrs. Carl HEADLEY of Lansing, Mich. arrived here Friday for a 2 week visit with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and family.

- Wanda WAGNER BYRNES, daughter of Ed and Lotta WAGNER, was born in St. Louis, and died May 12, 1945 at Christian Hospital. She entered the hospital only a few days ago to undergo an operation. His condition grew worse Saturday and she died. Services were held at Drehman and Harral Funeral Home with interment in Oak Grove Cemetery. Those attending from Kinmundy were: Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON and son, Kenneth; Mrs. Art COCKRELL, and F.G. ALEXANDER.

- Junior GARRETT, S3 c of Indianapolis, Ind. spent Sunday here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and family.

- Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield visited the weekend with her mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and daughter.

- Miami Beach, Fla. - S. Sgt. James ELLIS, 34, of Kingman, Kansas, has arrived at Army Air Forces Redistribution Station No. 2 in Miami Beach for reassignment processing after completing a tour of duty outside the continental United States. Sergeant ELLIS few 30 missions as a gunner in the European Theater winning the Air Medal with 4 clusters. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Louie JEZEK of Kinmundy. His wife, Martha ELLIS, resides in Kingman, Kansas.

- A letter was printed from Bryan POWELL of Long Beach, Cal., about his father, Chas HOWELL’s trip.

May 24, 1945:

- Pvt. Charles PERGL Arrives Home After Spending 3˝ Months in German Prison: Pvt. Charles PERGL, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike PERGL, of Foster twp., arrived here May 10th to spend a 60 day furlough with his parents, his wife and 2 children, after spending 3˝ months in a German prison. He entered the service in Feb. 1944 and shipped overseas Aug. 1, 1944, landing in England. From there he was taken to France, then to Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. He was a member of the 28th Division, Co. D. 112 Inf. Regt. On Dec. 17th, when the Germans staged their counter-attack, his company was taken prisoner in Luxembourg. They were marched several miles and then loaded in a box car and taken to a prison camp known as Stalog IXB, located near Bad-Orb, Germany. In this camp were prisoners of several nationalities. Pvt. PERGL said that the Germans did not work these inmates except 3 days. Then they found it was taking too much food for them. Rations were gradually cut down. He weighed 140 lb. when he entered the prison camp, and 80 lbs. when he left it. They were required to sleep on board floor which was not at all comfortable. So their greatest hardships were nothing to eat and no bed to sleep in. They received fairly good treatment from the hands of the German soldiers. They were released by the American Army on April 2nd. From there, they were taken to France where they were put on good rations gradually. Before leaving France, he regained a good part of his weight and now he is almost back to normal. He says he is hungry all the time and really eats. Pvt. PERGL started home on April 21, landing in New York May 5, and reached home on May 10th. He wears the Good Conduct Badge, the Infantry Combat Badge, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with one star, representing the Battle of Germany. Pvt. PERGL’s wife was the former Ellen PARKER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert PARKER of Foster twp. They have 2 children, Evelyn 6, and Charles Jr. 5. Mrs. PERGL received a telegram from the War Dept. on Jan. 15th, stating that he was missing in action. Then on March 8, she received a card direct from him through the Red Cross, stating he was well and alright. Then on March 20, she received another telegram from the War Dept. stating that he was a prisoner. So you know this is certainly one happy family. After spending his furlough, Pvt. PERGL will report to Miami, Fla. for reassignment. He has a brother, Pvt. Tony PERGL, in the Southwest Pacific. A sister, Mrs. Cecil CURRY, resides in Chicago. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Cadet Nurse Annette VALLOW graduated from the Daughter of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul with the Class of 1945 in St. Louis, Mo. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- The Commencement Program was included for May 27, 1945 to be held in the High School Auditorium. Graduates are: Veda Helen MEYER; Dorothy Evelyn BASSETT, Fern Marie GREEN, Leta Harriet ATKINS, Geneva McGUIRE, Mildred Louise AUMILLER, John William BOUSEMAN, John R. MAZANEK, Billy Wyatt SOLDNER, Orion Junior Butts, Robert D. JENKINS*, Richard R. MAULDING, Norma L. MILLER, Howard Keith GREEN*, Berthol Junior GARRETT*, Calvin Leroy BARBEE*, William David LOWE*. (* - In the Service)

- Frank ARNOLD, SSMB2 c, arrived Saturday for a leave with his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby. Enroute he visited with his sister, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, in his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby. Enroute he visited with his sister, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, in the Fitzsimmons Hospital in Denver, Colo. Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD received word Sunday from her son, S. Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD, that he has arrived in the States from Europe.

- 2nd Lt. Lyle J. SHREFFLER, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil SHREFFLER, Killed in Okinawa: Mr. and Mrs. Cecil SHREFFLER, of Alma, received word Tuesday morning from the War Dept. stating "your son, 2nd Lt. SHREFFLER, Lyle J., was killed in action on Okinawa 20 April." This was, indeed, a severe shock to this good family as well as his many relatives and friends. Lyle J., son of Cecil and Lillian BLACK SHREFFLER, was born Nov. 3, 1921, in Tonti twp. When just a lad, this family moved to Kinmundy twp. where he attended school at the Sherman School and later the Kinmundy Schools. He was graduated from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘39. He entered the service on Oct. 20, 1942. He worked up through the ranks and held the rating of Staff Sergeant when he shipped overseas July 4, 1944, landing in Hawaii. From there he went to the Philippine Islands and then to Okinawa. He was with the 96th Division and after the battle of Leyte, he was one of 11 men left out of his battalion. On March 5, 1945, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant and transferred to another company in the same division. Lt. SHREFFLER received the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Philippine Island Liberation Ribbon with 2 stars and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon. Besides the parents, he leaves 1 brother, Cpl. George, now stationed in Utah; and 4 sisters, Mrs. Wanda EAGAN of this city; Nelda, Donna and Mona at home; and 3 grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George BLACK, and Mrs. Ella SHREFFLER, all of Alma. The last letter received by the parents was dated April 15th. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to this good family. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Miss Katherine WORMLEY submitted to an appendectomy last Friday in the Salem Hospital.

- Walter McHATTON was operated last Saturday in Salem Hospital for hernia and appendicitis.

- Mr. and Mrs. Edward ESSARY have a daughter, Janice Kaye, born May 17 in Vickers Memorial Hospital at McLeansboro. The mother is formerly Leona JACKSON.

- Mr. and Mrs. James JONES have a daughter, Nina Lynn, born Monday.

- A son was born to PFC and Mrs. Robert A. GRAY of Alma, on May 19. PFC GRAY is with the Third Army in Germany.

- Lt. and Mrs. C.M. BROOM have a daughter, Linda Louise, born May 15th at Baltimore, Md. Lt. BROOM, U.S.N.R. is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. J.A. BROOM, Alma.

- Mary Etta KRUTSINGER WYMAN MOORE PRUETT, the daughter of Benjamin and Margaret HOLMAN KRUTSINGER, was born June 18, 1868 near Xenia, and died at Iola, Ill. on May 12, 1945. She was the last of her father’s family. When about 16 years old, she married John WYMAN of Xenia, and they had 3 children: Bert of Iola; Roy WYMAN, deceased; and Mrs. Herschel PIGG of Kinmundy. John WYMAN died Feb. 8, 1890. On Oct. 12, 1892, she married Otis MOORE of Xenia, and they had 4 children: Clarence, deceased; Luther of Champaign; Carl of Salem; and Denny, deceased. Following the death of Otis MOORE, she married July 1921 to D.F. PRUETT, and by this union she became the step-mother to her husband’s 5 motherless children. Those surviving her of these children are: Will PRUETT of Iola; Ralph of Pinckneyville; Bert of St. Elmo; and Nina PATRICK of Neoga. D.F. PRUETT died July 22, 1939. Before she was married she was a member of the Christian Church, but later she held her membership with the Primitive Baptist Church. At the time of her last sickness she was caring for an old lady in her home so it could be said she died as she lived, her last thoughts being for others. Aside from the children already mentioned, she is survived by 11 grandchildren, 6 of them serving in the armed forces of the United States, and by 11 great-grandchildren, 29 step-grandchildren, 7 being in the United States Armed Forces, and 17 step-great-grandchildren. Services were held from the Primitive Baptist Church near Iola with interment in the cemetery at Oskaloosa.

- Lt. Col. and Mrs. W.C. INGRAM and children spent Tuesday night and Wednesday here with their parents.

- Mr. and Mrs. J.A. BROOM were in Marion Thursday attending the funeral of their nephew and cousin, Major Herbert GARRISON.

- Mrs. Icy GARRETT spent the week in Mt. Vernon with her daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Dow GREEN.

- Miletus: Isaac BOSTON, a life time resident of this community, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ray MERRITT, near Champaign, today at the age of 72 years. The body was brought here Sunday and services were held at Meacham Baptist Church with interment in Elder Cemetery. He is survived by 9 children of Ohio, Wis., and Ill. The youngest son, PFC Marion, is serving with the U.S. Army in the Philippine Islands.

- Miletus: Mr. and Mrs. George BOSTON, of Greenview, son Francis, of Decatur and daughter, Mrs. Pearl MARCUM and husband of Mason City, Ill., attended the funeral of their brother and uncle Isaac BOSTON, Sunday.

- Pvt. James HALL of Texas is enjoying furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed HALL and family.

- Lt. Richard E. BRANSON arrived here Sunday to spend a few days with wife and daughter, Penny Sue.

- Mrs. Carl HEADLEY returned Wednesday afternoon to her home in Lansing, Mich. after spending 2 weeks with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT, and other relatives.

May 31, 1945:

- Here’s a short letter from Cpl. Earl BRIMBERRY, dated 11 May in the Philippines. He says: Just a line or two to say hello and to let you know of the change of APO. I’ve had quite a few new ones lately, but now I think we’re settled for quite awhile at least and I hope so. Our job here in the Philippines is just about done and I hope to be home this year with Germany done for. I got down to Manila while we were in those parts, but was so badly torn up you could not see it’s real beauty. Although it was a very beautiful city at one time and I can’t blame the Filipinos and bragging about it so much. I saw JONES the other day for a few moments. What a surprise. Haven’t seen a paper for many a moon, but I will some day. Say hello to everyone and hold the fort down.

- Here’s a nice letter from PFC Charles MEYER, dated 19 May, in Austria. He says: I thought I would drop a few lines to say hello. I’ve nothing else to do, it being Sunday. All the boys say hello and they send you the best of luck in everything. How is everything around the old hometown? I am sure glad to be writing this letter with the war over. I have not gotten a paper for quite some time, but am looking forward to getting one any day now. I hope you are able to make this out. It is the first time that I ever did any typing of any kind. I’ll tell you what outfit I am in now. I am in the 65th Division and the 3rd Army. I guess you know that is under Gen. PATTON. Have you heard from any of the old boys lately? It’s been an age since I have seen any of them. I sure would like to run across some of them. We are living in a house which is fit for a king to be living in. We are now hoping to soon be coming back to the good old U.S.A. I sure hope that it won’t be too long. We listen to radio programs from London and the U.S. It sure is good to hear them. I have seen Germany, France, and Austria, but I would not exchange them all for any part of America. Have you heard from Bruce OLDEN since he was wounded? I sure hope it was not serious. I also heard about his brother being wounded. But never did hear how either one was making it. I hope the boys that came over here first and were over here the longest get to come home first. I believe all the other fellows will agree with me. We sure have not been getting our mail very regular. Now that we will be at one place for awhile, it should be coming in. I started to write this a couple of days ago but messed on my writing and gave it up. So today I thought I would try my luck at it again. Well, I will have to bring this letter to a close hoping that I get the paper soon.

- Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM had a family reunion Sunday in honor of Lt. Col. W.C. INGRAM, who was home on leave from Hill Field, Utah. He has been attending school in Ann Arbor, Mich. Others at home were: Mrs. W.C. INGRAM and children of Sullivan; Dr. and Mrs. C.L. WRIGHT of Carbondale; Mr. and Mrs. Bruce MORGAN and son and Mrs. C.J. DOUGLAS and son of Karnak; Miss Nelle of St. Louis; Mrs. Lucille JOHNSON and children of Windsor, and Mrs. Ray INGRAM.

- Mr. and Mrs. Roy WILLIAMS received word that their sons, 1st Lt. Walter (Bill) WILLIAMS and T. Sgt. Chloris WILLIAMS met in England. Chloris received a furlough while in Germany, permitting his journey to England. His transportation was of a variety. He boarded a plane to Paris, took a jeep to the train, and from the train, he walked in as a complete surprise on Bill. He had written that he was coming, but Bill had not received the letter. Their reunion was interrupted but once when duty called Bill away for one more mission which completed his 35 missions. At the end of the 7 days, Bill was sent to a rest home in London, but that didn’t separate the boys, because Chloris just packed and tagged along. 1st Lt. WILLIAMS has received one Air Medal and 3 Oak Leaf Clusters as well as the promotion to First Lieutenant.

- Mrs. J.H. BACKENSTO and son, Miles and daughters, Donna and Shirley, of Hartford, spent Decoration Day here with her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS.

- Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY and daughter, Mrs. Fred GAMMON and son, Darrell LIVESAY and Floyd GARRETT, went to Decatur Monday to visit with Mr. LIVESAY. The boys expect to stay and get work.

- Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES and son, Pvt. Darvin JONES and wife, of Patoka, spent Wednesday here in the Forrest JONES home. Pvt. Darvin has just returned from overseas where he had been a German prisoner for several months.

- Martha TAYLOR DOWNS, daughter of George and Mattie TAYLOR, was born in Kinmundy on March 22, 1862, and died May 21, 1945. Kinmundy, with the exception of a few months, has always been her home. Here she was happily married to Melvin DOWNS, and they had the following children, who have preceded her in death: Charlie, Georgie, Anna May, Alice, Mattie Belle, Gladys; and Joe, who gave his life in World War I. Then her husband passed away also. Her surviving children are: Rube, Harry, Tracy, and Thelma. She was a member of the local Christian Church, and a Gold Star member of the American Legion Auxiliary of Salem. Besides her 4 children, she is survived by 1 sister, Mrs. Nannie DECK of New Douglas, Ill.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Frank ARNOLD, SSMB2c, arrived here on May 18th after spending the past year in the Marshall Islands. Needless to say that he was mighty glad to get home and see his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and family as well as his many friends. Frank enlisted in the C.B.s on Nov. 24, 1942. And after training at various stations, shipped overseas on May 6, 1944, landing in the Marshall Islands. The island on which he was stationed consisted of nothing but rock, no vegetation, no flies, no mosquitoes, and the best all, no fighting. They were just there guarding the island. Consequently, life was pretty dull. Frank developed a little trouble in one limb and was sent back to the states, landing on April 16th. He was sent to the hospital at San Diego for a few days and then dismissed and given a 30 day leave. Enroute here, he stopped in Denver, Colo., and visited a short time with his sister, Lt. Grace ARNOLD, who is a patient in the Fitzsimmons General Hospital there. Frank will report back to duty in Detroit, Mich., on June 11, and then will be reassigned from there. He has one brother, Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD, who is in the service and has just recently returned to the states from the Western Front where he was wounded. Saturday the mother received word that he was now a patient in the Fitzsimmons General Hospital, Denver, Colo., the same hospital in which his sister, Lt. Grace, is a patient. Frank wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon.

- Mrs. Dow GREEN of Mt. Vernon, is spending a few days here with her mother, Mrs. Icy GARRETT.

- East Zion (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Marvin BASSETT are rejoicing over the birth of a 6 lb. 5 1/4 oz. baby girl born May 14th. She will answer to the name of Donna Marlene.

- East Zion (from last week): Mrs. Warren OSBORNE and Miss Martha MULVANEY called at the James BASSETT home Monday afternoon.

- East Zion (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna, spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Merle JONES and daughter, Betty.

- East Zion (from last week): Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD, Mrs. Eli GREEN and son, Larry, Mrs. Edith SOUTIER and daughter, Kathryn, and Mrs. Mildred WALTON called at the James BASSETT home Tuesday afternoon to see Mrs. Marvin BASSETT and new baby girl.

- East Zion (from last week): Gwen BELCHER and family called on their daughter, and little granddaughter, Mrs. Marvin BASSETT and little daughter at the James BASSETT home.

- Wilson School: Mrs. Jess CHARLTON attended a stork shower Friday afternoon for Mrs. Robert SMITH at the home of Mrs. Marshall CRAIG.

- Pleasant Grove: A large crowd attended the graduation exercises at Pleasant Grove Wednesday night. Lois MILLER, Jean HIESTAND, and Elizabeth GRIFFIN were among the graduates.

- Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth LECKRONE and son, Garrett, of Whiting, Ind. are here for a 10 day visit with Mrs. LECKRONE’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Orville GARRETT. Kenneth is being called into the service next week.

- Mr. and Mrs. Orville GARRETT, Mrs. Margaret GRAMLEY, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and Judy spent Sunday evening with Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and Donna.

- Meadow Branch: Verne SCHOONOVER, who is a Petty Officer in the Navy Air Corps, at Lake City, Fla., is home on furlough and will be sent overseas soon.

June 7, 1945:

- Pvt. Charles DISS’ Unit Receives Award of Meritorious Service Unit Plaque in Germany: On May 8, the award of Meritorious Service Unit Plaque, was made to the Service Battery, 751st Field Artillery Battalion for Superior Execution of duty in the performance of exceptionally difficult tasks. From 22 January to 31 March 1945, the Service Battery, 751st Field Artillery Battalion rendered meritorious service in the accomplishment of it’s numerous duties on the continent. Throughout this period, this unit achieved and maintained a high standard of discipline and demonstrated superior performance in every duty it was assigned. The conduct of the 751st Field Artillery Battalion is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service. PFC Charles DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, is a member of this unit and when he returns home, you will see him wearing a Gold Wreath on his right sleeve.

- Mr. and Mrs. G.C. DOOLEN have received word from their son, Roy, stating that he was promoted to the rank of Captain in the Calvary, on 16 May. He is with the Third Army in Germany.

- Mrs. Wayne JONES, who is making her home with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde PRUETT, has received word from her husband stating that he has been promoted to the rank of Major. He is in the Air Force and has supervision of several radio schools in all parts of the United States.

- R.D. HANNA and family and Ethlyn RUBIN were in Chicago Sunday where they spent a few hours with Duane HANNA, S1 c RM, who was enroute from New London, Conn. to San Diego, Calif., where he will soon complete his training as submarine radioman.

- Francis Lee BARBEE, 79 years old, died at the home of his son, Earl BARBEE, in Bloomington, Ind. He had been suffering from a complication of diseases for the past 7 months. He was a resident of Kinmundy, and had spent the winter in Bloomington with his son and daughter-in-law, Mrs. Ollie BARBEE. He was a member of the Methodist Church in Kinmundy. In addition to his son and daughter-in-law, he is survived by 2 daughters, Mrs. Cora Mae DAVIS of Newport News, Va., and Mrs. Leona VAN VALKENBURGH of Kansas City, Mo.; A brother, George BARBEE of Kinmundy; and 3 granddaughters, Mrs. Vivian TUCKER of Bloomington, Ind., Mrs. Dorothy DIAL of Decatur, Ill., and Mrs. Geraldine SANDERS of Newport News, Va. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mrs. T.C. BRICKLEY and son, Thomas, of Miami, Fla., came Sunday to spend a few days with her mother, Mrs. Art COCKRELL. They are enroute to Festus, Mo. to make their home. Mrs. BRICKLEY went to Chicago Sunday to be with her husband, Lt. BRICKLEY, who was enroute to Panama.

- Mr. and Mrs. Irvin CHEATUM have received word that their son, T. Sgt. Floyd, has arrived in the States from overseas and is now in a hospital in Topeka, Kansas. They expect him to be home within a few days.

- Mr. and Mrs. Carl DUNLAP and daughter arrived home Sunday from Morris, Ill. where Mr. DUNLAP has been employed.

- The Kinmundy High School Alumni Association held it’s annual reception Saturday evening for the graduating class of ‘45. There were 105 members and guest present. A potluck dinner was served at 8 o’clock. After dinner, an address of welcome was given by the president, Mrs. Nora OLDEN. Miss Pauline BAGOTT held the distinguished honor of being the oldest alumnus present, having graduated with the class of ‘97. Mrs. Pearl FISHER ran a close second having graduated with the class of ‘98. Mrs. Mary GARRETT rendered 2 vocal solos with Mrs. Charlotta HEINRICH at the instrument. Mrs. Annie YOUNG then gave a tribute to the Gold Star Boys and presented a K.H.S. Gold Star Honor Roll to the association. On this honor roll are inscribed the following names: Harold SHUFELDT, Manuel WELSH, William HILL, Xon SCHOOLEY, Harold KLEISS, B.L. HANNA, Floyd EAGAN, and Lyle SHREFFLER. The group then sang "America". Officers elected for the ensuing year are: Irene GAMMON, President; Alice FRENCH, Vice President; Norma SHREFFLER, Secretary; Edith HAMMER, Treasurer.

- Swift School: Roy DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cleve DOOLEN, has been promoted to Capt. Roy is with the army in Germany. Leroy GREEN also received a promotion.

- Swift School: Helen BASSETT and Donna Mae GARRETT were afternoon callers of Virginia HELPINGSTINE, Saturday.

- Meadow Branch: Marion HINES was inducted into the Army early this spring, and is stationed at Little Rock, Ark.

- Brown: Those who spent Sunday with Mrs. Lesta RAGUSE were: J.T. BAKER and wife, L.L. BAKER and family, Ivory NEAL and family, Mrs. Lena HAYS, and Dean BAKER and family, the occasion being her birthday.

- Brown: John McGUIRE of the U.S. Navy is visiting with the M.B. McGUIRE family.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Esta ROBB is quite sick and under the care of Dr. WALKER.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and children of Sumner, spent Sunday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Hazel LIVESAY spent Saturday night with Mrs. Esta ROBB.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Liz ATKINS spent Monday in the W.F. ROBB home.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Velma ROBB and little daughter are spending a few days with Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- East Meadow Branch: Miss Dorothy WANTLAND spent Tuesday afternoon with Mrs. Esta ROBB.

June 14, 1945:

- First Class Private Ralph E. JENKINS, Medical Dept., Medical Collecting Company, United States Army, for meritorious achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy from 1 July 1944 to 19 March 1945, in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. During the months of active combat, Private JENKINS has consistently demonstrated the utmost conscientiousness and willingness to serve to the limits of his endurance and capabilities. Disregarding the dangers to himself, he has repeatedly volunteered for duty in the front lines, always eager to be in the place where his services were most urgently needed. The cool courage under fire and high devotion to duty displayed by Private JENKINS were an inspiration to others and a credit to himself and the armed forces. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben JENKINS of this city, and has been in the service for 2˝ years.

- Marion SHUFELDT, residing south of Omega, had the misfortune of having a cow killed by lightening Thursday morning. However, he was rather lucky in not being killed himself because he was milking the cow at the time. Marion was stunned and it was quite sometime before he regained his senses. He was wearing rubber boots at the time which some attribute to the saving of his life. The bolt of lightening struck the barn, killed the cow and set some hay which happened to be in the manger on fire. Marion’s 2 lads quickly, extinguished the flames. The barn had several bales of hay in the loft which was not damaged.

- T. Sgt. Maxey SPENCER was sent from Santa Ana, Calif. to Ft. Sheridan and on Monday was handed his discharge papers. MAXEY said these were the papers he had been looking for a long time and is mighty glad they caught up with him. Sgt. SPENCER entered the service Sept. 24, 1941. He was sent overseas as an Aerial Engineer on a Liberator, being stationed in England. After completing 35 missions over Germany, he was sent back to the states on April 13. He arrived in Kinmundy April 28, to spend a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall SPENCER and family. Sgt. SPENCER has been forwarded the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Good Conduct Ribbon, Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, European of Operations with 2 stars representing the battle of Germany and the Battle of France and the American Theater of Operations Ribbon. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Pvt. and Mrs. Loyd L. GERHART have a son, Lloyd Michael, born on June 2 at Salem Hospital. The mother was formerly Miss Marie PARRISH.

- Mr. and Mrs. Glen WHITE have a son, David Chester, born in Centralia last Friday. The WHITEs now have 3 boys.

- Mr. and Mrs. Bennie DOOLEN have a son born June 8 in Salem Hospital named Stephen Carl.

- William LUX has purchased the building, now occupied by R.C. GARNER, from Mr. GARNER. Mr. LUX will open a garage in this building in the near future. Mr. GARNER says he is wanting to quit business, especially the heavy blacksmithing, on account of ill health.

- As stated 2 weeks ago, Fred CRAIN, Coxswain, arrived here on May 27th to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN and son, Carl, who recently received his discharge. We have delayed this writeup in hopes that we could reproduce a picture of Fred, but we are informed that a picture will not be available until sometime next month. Fred entered the navy on Jan. 7, 1943, and received his boot training at the Great Lakes Naval Station. On Sept. 18, 1943, he shipped overseas landing on New Caledonia. There he was assigned to the Amphibians, seeing service on the LCM’s, LCVP’s Ferry Barges. From New Caledonia, he went to Gaudacanal, he went to Gaudacanal, then to Munda, New Georgia, and then to Manas Admiralty Islands. He arrived back in the states on May 23 and will report back to the St. Louis Base on June 27th. Fred wears the American Theater of Operations Ribbon and the Asiatic-Pacific with 2 stars representing the battle of Munda and the Battle of Bougainville.

- T4 Floyd JONES, son of Mr. and Mrs. Merle JONES, and T5 Emmitt GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT, recently enjoyed a visit together in Hawaii. These lads are cousins and had not seen each other for about 2˝ years.

- Miss Jean FULFER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R.J. FULFER of Lincoln, married Harold SLAYTON, son of Mr. and Mrs. William SLAYTON, also of Lincoln on May 31 in Henderson, Ky. in the parsonage at the Methodist Church. The bride is a graduate of Kinmundy High School and until recently was employed in the Office of Illico Oil Co. The groom is a graduate of Lincoln H.S., and was recently given a medical discharge after serving 3˝ years in the Army. He was overseas one year. Mr. SLAYTON is now employed with the Lincoln Roofing Co., and the couple will reside in Lincoln.

- Mr. Agnus N. GRAY of this city and Mrs. Maude HORRILL of West Frankfort were married last Thursday in Salem. Mr. GRAY is well known in this community, and the bride will be remembered by several of the older residents, having been born and reared in this city, she being the former Miss Maude GEORGE, a sister to Walter GEORGE. They will make their home here in the A.N. GRAY residence.

- 6th Army Group Germany - The city of Wurzburg, in southwestern Germany, lay in ruins after receiving terrible blastings from the air. The rubble-strew streets and gutted buildings were deceivingly quiet. But hidden in doorways and behind walls, the enemy was waiting with machine guns trained on advancing American doughboys of an infantry division. On the outskirts of the city, Combat Command ‘A’ of the 12th Armored "Hellcat" Division poised, ready to act as trouble shooters in case Krauts proved difficult to root. A short time later, the quiet was shattered as the well entrenched Germans poured round after round of fire into the American infantry. Combat Command "A" moved in swiftly, its advanced tank elements led by 1st Lt. Thomas F. JOHNSON. The tanks moved from one infantry sector to another, blasting the stubborn enemy in one of the last actions in crushing Germany. "I don’t know how many Krauts we killed or captured in Wurzburg, but we didn’t take many prisoners", Lieut. JOHNSON said. "We just kept driving through the town, shooting at everything we saw." The 7th Army’s 12th Armored Division, a component of Gen. DONOVAN’s 6th Army Group, had 3 battalions - one of the tanks, one of the infantry, and one of field artillery - in it’s hard hitting combat command ‘A’. The fighting unit is supported by companies of medic, ordinance, and combat engineers. Among members of Combat Command ‘A’ is T. Sgt. Ervin F. CHEATUM, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM of this city.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae, called at the Roy JONES home in Patoka, Sunday.

- Swift School: Afternoon visitors at the Clyde BASSETT home Sunday were Mr. and Mrs. Clyde GARRETT and family, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae.

- Swift School: Wyona HANNA spent Saturday night with Lila GARRETT.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Joe MEDLEY and children returned the first of the last week from Oklahoma, where she has been with her husband since before Christmas. After spending a few days with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul JENKINS, she is now at their home on the Ralph HIESTAND farm. Mr. MEDLEY spent Saturday night and Sunday with them, returning back to Army duty on Sunday in St. Louis, where he’s stationed now.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Irma WANTLAND entered Salem Hospital Monday afternoon for a few days treatment and another operation, which we hope will be successful.

- S. Sgt. Neil JOHNSON and wife, Cpl. Gloria JOHNSON, of Mitchell Field, N.Y. arrived here Friday to spend a few days with their mother, Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON.

- Meacham: Sunday evening, the Community Birthday Circle and their families came to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN, and it was a surprise for Mrs. CRAIN, and their son, Fred (Gene) CRAIN, S1 c, who is home on leave from the South Pacific. A large crowd was present.

- Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL received word that their son, Virgil I. MARSHALL, was made Lieut. (j.g.) at Whiting Field, Milton, Fla., on the 1st.

- Meadow Branch: Verne SCHOONOVER, who has been spending his last 2 weeks with his wife and parents, departed Monday for Moffett Field, Calif.

- Mr. and Mrs. Francis HAMMER and daughter, Barbara Kaye, were in Greenville Sunday attending a SCHAUFELBERGER family reunion.

- Pvt. Ray OLDEN of Nashville, Tenn. came Tuesday for a visit with his family.

- Theodore MILLER celebrated his 85th birthday in his home here June 12. Present to enjoy dinner with him were his daughters: Mr. and Mrs. Clarence JOLIFF of Centralia; Mrs. Nell WILSON of Decatur; Mrs. Victoria JACKSON and son; Grover BAILEY; and Miss Beulah DISS. Several friends called to wish Uncle "Pete" a happy birthday.

June 21, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, dated 9th June in Florence, Italy, telling us we are to receive something which we are looking forward to. He says: Under separate cover I sent a little diary of a trip which I made recently. You may or many not be interested in it, certainly not the whole thing in one issue of your paper for that is all you would have room for. It is sort of a story diary of a trip I made to Cairo, Egypt and Palestine last week. We went in a B-17, Flying Fortress, and had a wonderful time, but was glad to return to our "home" here in Italy. Please don’t be too critical on the spelling, sentence structure and other items such as typing, for I have had to work on it during my spare time this week and it turned out to be more of a job than I had bargained for in the beginning. This life overseas at the moment is rough! It is so different that a year ago when everything was in such a rush and we were having a terrible job trying to keep up with the armies going North through Italy. At present I am living in a hotel with very nice bed and mattress, etc., and working in a first class big city office building. My office is on the fourth floor and at all hours of the day have a nice breeze coming through. My hours of work are from 0830 hours to 1700 hours daily except Sunday then I have to take my turn with the other officers. Of course, this sounds like a map to you, which it is, but we would much rather be working hard, and more than anything else would rather go home. Since it is impossible to go home, and some do get priority over others, then I will have to sweat I out along with the others. My final hope is that I get home sometime in 1945 - that would make me feel quite good. As far as points go, and they don’t apply much to officers, I have a total of 127 which is pretty fair for a ground work officer in the Air Corps. We have had the most wonderful weather here in Italy since Christmas I have ever seen. There has been very little rain, in fact, not enough for the crops. I was at the golf course yesterday afternoon, playing a round of golf, and the ground was cracked so badly one would almost get his foot caught in some of the cracks. Yes, there is a nice golf course here, also swimming pool, and tennis courts. It’s a tough life. We don’t play softball but about once or twice a week now - I have won five out of six games I’ve pitched since joining this Group. O.K. for an ‘old man’, eh? Just wanted to tell you that I had sent that other story and that you could use it if you like and if not O.K. I must get home and clean up for dinner.

- Mrs. Richard SCHWABE and son, Dickie Dean, of Champaign, visited Mr. and Mrs. Ren WAINSCOTT a few days last week. Mrs. SCHWABE and Dickie expect to move to our city as soon as Richard has passed his army physical.

- Pvt. Leon JONES of Mississippi, is here for an 18 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edgar JONES and family.

- Capt. Clyde MORGAN of Washington spent a few days of his furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.H. MORGAN and sister, Martha. He left Friday for Cleveland, Ohio to spend a few days there with relatives.

- Posthumous Award of Bronze Star Medal: PFC B.L. HANNA, who died of wounds in France, was posthumously awarded the Bronze Medal for valorous action against the enemy. The presentation was made by First Lt. MILLER to Darrell Patrick HANNA, 2 year old son of Mrs. B.L. HANNA. The citation reads as follows: "For valorous conduct in action against the enemy. On the night of 23 Nov. 1944, as his platoon was leading the advance of his battalion towards ________, France, Private First Class HANNA, first scout, observed an enemy emplacement about 10 yards off the road. Rapidly circling the enemy position, Private First Class came upon it’s rear before the enemy within could fire more than one shot at the platoon. By his alertness and aggressive performance of duty, Private First Class HANNA thus took three enemy prisoners and eliminating a hostile outpost."

- T5 and Mrs. Joseph G. VALLOW of Battle Creek, Mich. came Sunday for a few days furlough with relatives.

- Miss Ruth LACEY of Bloomington, formerly of this city, and James MULLEN of Bloomington were married May 22 at Holy Trinity Church in Bloomington. Mr. and Mrs. Peter OTTES were the attendants. Mrs. MULLEN is a graduate of Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘26. Since her graduation, she has been employed in Peoria and Bloomington. Mr. MULLEN is a native of Farmer City. The couple will reside in Bloomington.

- Clyde MORGAN, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.H. MORGAN, was advanced from the rank of 1st Lieut. to that of Captain on May 29th.

- Carl PRUETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT, who is serving in the Navy in the Southwest Pacific has been advanced from Lt. (j.g.) To Lieutenant. He is in the Medical Corps.

- Miss Harriett BROWN of Effingham, Attorney, recently appointed government appeal agent for local board No. 1, Effingham Co., is the only woman in the United States to hold such a position. Upon receipt of the submission of her name by Paul G. ARMSTRONG, state director of selective service, Washington officials protested on the grounds that the nature of the duties incurred by the position had brought about a national policy that no women officiate in that capacity. But the officials changed their minds, and Miss BROWN received a letter recently. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Arminda BROWN of this city, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willard BROWN of Effingham.

- Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD, who is a patient in the Fitzsimmon General Hospital, Denver, Colo., arrived here Monday to visit his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and other relatives.

- Frank WARD of Mexico, died at the home of his son, Elmer WARD Friday. He came to Louisiana Decoration Day and was critically ill for a week before his death. Services and interment were held in Auxvasse. He was 75 years old, and survived by his wife, Julia WARD of Mexico; 1 daughter, Minnie CLARK of Mexico; and 1 son, Elmer WARD of Louisiana; half-brothers, J.S. BOUGHERS of St. Louis; and Dave BOUGHERS of Kinmundy; also 8 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

- Mr. and Mrs. J.H. DISS have a son, John Howard, born in St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia last Thursday.

- We have just received word that David SCHOOLEY has been discharged from the army and is expected here in a few days.

- T. Sgt. Ervin Floyd CHEATUM arrived here Sunday to spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ervin CHEATUM. Needless to say, this lad was certainly glad to get home again. Sgt. Floyd entered the service on Oct. 20, 1942 and was trained in various camps in the States. He was shipped overseas on Sept. 17, 1944, landing in England. From there he as sent to France and then to Germany. On February 21, 1945, he was wounded in the right leg at Henlisheim, Germany. He was then sent to a hospital in Nacy, France, and from there to an English Hospital on April 17th. He sailed from England May 17, landing in Boston on May 29th, where he was take to the Miles Standish Hospital. He remained there a few days and was sent to the Winters General Hospital, Topeka, Kan., where he is now a patient. Sgt. CHEATUM wears the Good Conduct Medal, The Infantry Combat Medal, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars. He has a brother, PFC Francis CHEATUM, serving in the army in France. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Richard GRAY, S1c, arrived home Tuesday night, to spend a 30 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lavern GRAY in Alma, and with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert GRAY in this city. Dick entered the Navy on April 13, 1944. After completing his boot training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station, he was sent to the Southwest Pacific. And although he has served just a little more than a year, he wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Iwa Jima and Pelu and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 2 stars representing the battles of Leyte and Luzon.

- Mrs. Jennie ROTAN has been entertaining her children, Mr. and Mrs. Sam SMITH of Pasadena, Calif., Mrs. G.H. WITTE of Ft. Worth, Texas, and S1 c Lewis Lloyd CROSSETT and wife and daughter of Lambert Field.

- Pleasant Grove: Guy SHAFFER lost a horse last week. It fell dead while driving across plowed ground.

- Miletus: J.T. BOUSMAN, a 75 year old dairyman of Meacham twp., reports births of 4 calves all singles, within 24 hours. Can any reader of this paper top that.

- Miletus: June 17th at the home of Robert BOSTON and wife, a number of relatives and friends enjoyed a dinner in honor of their son, PFC James who is spending furlough here and near Iola with his wife and children. A list of those attending was included.

- Miletus: Mr. and Mrs. Ora YATES and Mrs. Myrtle PERRY went to Greer Hospital in Vandalia to see Roy MULVANEY, who is a patient there suffering with blood poisoning since Friday of last week.

- Swift School: Fern GREEN, who is attending business college at Shelbyville, spent the weekend at the home of her father, Frank GREEN.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES and son, Darvin and wife of Patoka, Elmer FRIZZELL and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. DOOLEN and daughter, Lela Mae, called on the Frank GARRETT family Sunday. Lela Mae spent the weekend with Donna Mae.

- Swift School: Lila GARRETT spent the weekend with Mary Evelyn and Helen BASSETT.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Mack ROBB, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and daughter, Judy Ann, and Mr. and Mrs. Sam LOWE and son, Sammy, attended the show in Farina Saturday night.

- Young School: Mrs. Izora PERRY celebrated her 84th birthday on Saturday. Mrs. Ed CRAIG and Eula ate birthday dinner, and then on Sunday Mr. and Mrs. Earl LANE and family, Mr. and Mrs. Virl SEE and daughter, and Clyde PERRY enjoyed another birthday dinner with her. Mrs. Bertha SEE and Billy Dean called in the afternoon. Mrs. PERRY is enjoying the best of health.

- Richard MAULDING, 17 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. R.C. MAULDING, enlisted June 14th in the U.S. Army Reserve. He will enter the Army Specialized Training July 9th and remained there until he is 18 and become eligible for active duty. He will graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in May.

- Omega: Bob FULFER went to Chicago for a preinduction examination last week.

- Rev. and Mrs. Ira SCHLAGENHAUF of Janesville, Wis. came Saturday to visit with her mother, Mrs. Arminda BROWN and family, and to help celebrate Mrs. BROWN’s birthday on Sunday.

June 28, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Lt. (Chaplain) Walter B. PRUETT, dated 12 June, Etampes, France. He says: I just received the 17 May edition of the Express, the first since coming overseas. I was glad to hear of Roy DAVIS’ promotion. It was good to read all the other news too. I had a letter from Gail HINES a few days ago and just missed seeing him in Paris by one day. He went through on one day and I was there the next. I’m hoping that someone around Kinmundy will come along here some day. Nearly all the men who leave hospitals here on the Continent come through our Depot on the way back to their outfits or to their new assignment. I have met men from Ashley, Eldorado, and Hoopeston, Ill. They all knew several of the same people I know. I have had the privilege of visiting Paris about 5 times and have seen many of the famous places in that city. Paris probably suffered less from bombing than almost any other city on the Continent. Where there was bombing in the villages and towns outside Paris the people are busy cleaning up rubbish and rebuilding. It looks strange to us to see a single man working day after day on the sort of a job we would always have 4 or 5 men working on but that is their way of doing things. Thanks for the paper and greetings to everyone.

- Here’s one from PFC Leland ALDERSON dated 1 June, Leige, Belgium. He says: My time over here has passed very rapid, that I can be thankful for. I have received the Kinmundy Express and I wished to let you know that it is arriving. I made my entrance in this area just about 30 days after the excitement, and only about a week after the buzz bombs ceased. This was the city that seemed to be the main objective in the ‘bulge’, it is also the city that Hitler stated he would blow off the map, he did attempt to do just that with some 2,000 buzz bombs. The personnel of this hospital and the surrounding General Hospitals located in this vicinity, have certainly recovered splendidly from those buzz bombs and strafing attacks, which they were compelled to sweat out. Today we were notified we were to move. This will be this unit’s third time to move, it will be my first with them. It is a tremendous task to prepare a General Hospital to move, and be moved in we might say less than 10 days. Many of the patients that I have had the opportunity to talk with, well remember this section, in fact, so well that they can even point out the houses and hedge rows that they used as what little protection they might give them. About 2 weeks ago I had the opportunity to visit Aachen, Cologne, and Ulich, Germany. The poppy flowers were in bloom, but the beautiful fields of blossoms did not hide the battle scars. The German 88's were still resting where they were suddenly left by the rapidly retreating Nazi, rusting in the weather, tanks were still along the roads, the bombed out bridges on the roads were gaping holes, what had been concrete reinforced steel pill boxes. At one place we observed a bombed out underground factory. All of this was in the rolling agricultural land of the Ruhr valley, with the oxen in the field driven by a Kraut, not yet out of uniform. We visited Aachea first, then Duren, Cologne, and last Ulich. My vocabulary is far limited to express on paper the complete destruction of the cities I saw. The people of Germany in these areas will not be able to forget for a long time, but how about the areas that were more fortunate. In Cologne we visited the Cathedral which took some 400 years to build, it is ruined on the inside from the vibration of high explosives in the surrounding area, but from the outside stands as erect as ever. My equipment must be in order, so this will be all for now.

- Here’s one dated June 17th from Kenneth LEWIS, B2c, who is sailing on the U.S.S. Rigel in the Southwest Pacific. He says: It has been quite some time since I wrote you to thank you for the paper, so I thought it my duty to write today. I’m in the Philippine area again. This place is practically Japless. (Wish the world was.) Am sending you a copy of our ships’ paper. It’s published daily, and I think it will compete with any ship’s paper in the fleet as for news. You might notice that only advertisement in it is one ad given to the sale of War Bonds. Oh, yes, the pictures in it are treats for us fellows. They are well described on the front page. I would like to know Kenneth WILKINSON’s address. Suppose some of the boys are getting back from Germany. It would not surprise me for this to end over here anytime, but of course, it might last for a year or more. The one thing is certain, it must be a complete job, regardless of how long it will take. Several of the boys have got leaves in the last few months and now with the men coming over from Germany soon and the Okinawa Battle in its final stages, it really looks much brighter to us. Give my regards to all and thanks again for the paper.

- PFC Lawrence BASSETT and wife returned to Camp McCoy, Wis., Monday after spending a 10 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.O. BASSETT. PFC Lawrence was here for 22 days last fall after spending 29 months overseas. He entered the service Nov. 25, 1941, and was sent overseas on April 22, 1942, landing in Australia. He remained there until Jan. 1943 when he was sent to New Guinea and then back to Australia in Oct. 1943. There he remained until he started back to the states on Sept. 14, 1944. He arrived in Kinmundy Oct., there he spent a very enjoyable 22 days. From here he was sent to a rest camp in Florida for 14 days and then shipped to Camp McCoy, Wis., where he has since been stationed. It was at this camp where he met Miss Leah JOHNSON of Tomah, Wis., and on May 16, they were wed. This was the bride’s first trip to Southern Illinois and she says that she likes this part of the country fine. We sincerely hope this good couple will make this community their home after this war is over. PFC BASSETT wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, and the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Papu and New Guinea. He has 1 brother in the service, Cpl. James BASSETT, who has been in the Southwest Pacific for 3 years. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- In Memoriam of Edward MOELLER who died June 27. Mrs. Anna MOELLER.

- PFC Lenly WHITECOTTON Killed on Okinawa: Mr. and Mrs. Charles HOYT received a message from their niece, Mrs. Lenly WHITECOTTON of Hermosa Beach, Cal. stating she had received word that her husband was killed in action on May 23 on Okinawa. Mrs. WHITECOTTON was formerly Miss Dorothy BOUGHERS of this city. Besides the widow, he leaves a 2 year old son, and a 4 months old daughter.

- With the 32nd Division in Northern Luzon, P.I. - Staff Sergeant, Lyle E. BARBEE of Kinmundy, Ill. has been promoted to his present rank from that of Corporal. Entering the army in Jan. 1943, he has been in the SWPA for 24 months. He saw his first combat with the 126th Infantry of the famed (Red Arrow) Division at Saidor, after which he fought at Aitape, Morotai and Leyte. Recently he completed 119 consecutive days of action in the mountainous Lilla Verde-Santa Fe area in northern Luzon. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE and wife, Sarah Olipe, lived in Kinmundy.

- Cpl. Earl LEAT, brother of Mrs. Reindl BAYLIS, has been awarded the Combat Infantry Badge for outstanding performance of duty with the 103rd Infantry Division in ground combat against the enemy. He is serving with the 410th Regiment of the Cactus Division.

- A picnic supper was enjoyed last Tuesday at Bryan Memorial Park in Salem by a number of friends honoring Mrs. Roland ALDERSON, who will soon leave with her husband for Florida to make her home. The affair was given by the teachers of Central School of Salem of which Mrs. ALDERSON was popular and successful teacher.

- Miss Mary BRASEL submitted to an appendectomy in the Salem Hospital Friday.

- Mrs. Rea GARDEN was in St. Louis at Barnes Hospital Friday and Saturday, where her brother, Jim GARDEN, underwent a goiter operation.

- Mrs. Anna Grace DOLL, age 78, of Osceola, Ind. died in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Mishawaka, Ind. on June 16 after a brief illness. She was the daughter of William FRENCH of Alma, and spent 50 years of her life in Marion county. Before her marriage to Samuel DOLL, she taught school in Marion county. Surviving are a son, Heron, at home; 4 daughters, Mrs. Alvin WALLS of Wyandotte, Mich.; Mrs. Samuel ADAMS and Miss Ethel DOLL of Detroit, Mich.; and Miss Nona DOLL at home; a brother, Seymore FRENCH of Gillette, Wyo.; 2 sisters, Mrs. Hattie GRAY of Bon Weir, Texas, and Mrs. Lutie ROLAND of Detroit, Mich; 2 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Burial was in Osceola Cemetery.

- Earl HAMMER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER, had the misfortune of having one bone broken in his ankle Tuesday afternoon at the I.C. Lake. Earl, in company with the Morris CHASTEEN children were fishing from a boat tied to shore. Earl was standing and one of the children moved the boat, unbalancing Earl. When he fell, his foot caught between the end of the boat and the seat in such a manner as to break his ankle. He spent Tuesday night in Salem Hospital.

- Misses Florence JACK and Alice FRENCH accompanied by Mrs. O.Z. SMITH and Mrs. John ZUPCICK of Salem were in Carbondale recently attending the commencement exercises at the S.I.N.U. Miss JACK was a member of the class and received her Bachelor of Science and Education Degree at this time.

- S. Sgt. Daniel ARNOLD, Wounded in Holland, Now Enjoying Furlough With Home Folks: S. Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD arrived here June 18th to spend a 30 day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and other relatives. He entered the service June 18, 1941, but was not shipped overseas until June 6, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, then to Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and Holland. On Nov. 1, 1944, near Venlo, Holland, he was wounded by a land mine, injuring both legs. He was taken to the hospital at Leige, Belgium, then to Paris, France, and then to England. He started back to the states of May 8th landing May 20th. After reaching the states, he was assigned to the Fitzsimmon German Hospital, Denver, Colo., as a patient. Needless to say that he is enjoying his furlough here with relatives and friends very much. He has a brother, Frank, in the navy, who recently returned from overseas and is now stationed at Camp Wescott, Davisville, R.I. He also has a sister, 1st Lt. Grace, an army nurse, who recently returned from oversea duty and is now a patient in the Fitzsimmon General Hospital, Denver, Colo. D.A. reports her, as being much improved but not able to make a visit home for 2 or 3 months yet. Sgt. D.A. was a member of the 7th Armored Division and wears the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, the Purple Heart and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars, representing the battles of France, German and Belgium-Holland.

- Mr. and Mrs. Lewis HAYES and children moved their household goods here from Wichita, Kan., Monday and are now occupying the BACKENSTO property.

- Mr. and Mrs. Arthur BOUGHERS of Hermosa Beach, Cal., have a baby boy born last week.

- T5 and Mrs. J. Guin VALLOW of Battle Creek, Mich. left Thursday for their home.

- Sgt. Bill GARRETT left Monday for Ft. Sheridan for reassignment.

- Omega: Ralph MILLICAN returned home from Germany Saturday. He is a veteran of the African, Sicily, France and German invasion, having been in the service nearly 5 years, and is now discharged having 127 points.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. E.G. DILLON were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. E.T. JOHNSON in Odin celebrating the 2 ladies birthdays. Other guests were: Mrs. FRAZIER of Centralia; Mr. and Mrs. MEYER, George ROSS, Mrs. Earl JACKSON and daughter, Mrs. Elmer SQUIBB and babe, of Alma; Mr. and Mrs. Louis SUTTEN and daughter of Odin.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL called on Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS Sunday evening and called on Mr. and Mrs. Herman SOLDNER Sunday afternoon, and Mrs. Dora HEICHER and Merle, and Mrs. Carroll ALLEN and daughter called on Mr. and Mrs. HARRELL Sunday evening.

- Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS received word this week that her grandson, Joe Dick BACKENSTO, returned to his home in Hartford, Ill. after spending the past 26 months in the Southwest Pacific.

- Mabel GARRETT is enjoying a 3 week vacation with her brother, Mr. and Mrs. Orville GARRETT.

- Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT visited their daughter, Mrs. Elsworth CHANDLER and husband, over the weekend.

- Brown: Ensign Harold L. MONICAL left Sunday for Edwardsville to visit his brother, Dowe, and family, before returning to New York.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT had the misfortune of having their brooder house burn Monday afternoon. It had the most of 100 little chickens in it.

- East Zion: A large crowd attended the Sunday School Convention at Arnold Chapel Sunday afternoon.

- East Zion: Mrs. Marvin BASSETT and little daughter, Donna Marlene, are spending this week with Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT and daughter, Mrs. Richard WILLIAMS.

- Mrs. Earl SCHWABE and son, Keith, returned home Thursday after spending the past 3 weeks with Pvt. Earl SCHWABE at Ft. Sill, Okla.

- Sgt. Anson HINKLEY of Alma left Saturday for 2 weeks recuperation at Santa Ana, Calif. Air Base after which he is to return to Ft. Sheridan, Ill. for replacement.

- PFC and Mrs. John PHILLIPS of Oklahoma arrived Sunday to enjoy a furlough with relatives here.

- Miss Mabel GARRETT of Corpus Christi, Texas is visiting her brother, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. GARRETT.

- PFC Bill WILKINSON has just returned to his home in West Frankfort, Ill. from Army duty over on the Western Front. Sunday, the Herschel WILKINSON family visited Mrs. Prudence WILKINSON.

July 5, 1945:

- Sgt. John HOWARD arrived home Friday morning after receiving his discharge papers at Fort Sheridan the day previous. In all, he had 85 points. Sgt. HELM spent 30 months in the Southwest Pacific with the Field Artillery. He was permitted to come home last January on a 21 day furlough. After spending his furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marion HELM, and his bride, the former Miss Verma Del MERCER, of Salem, he was sent to Fort Ord, Calif., where he remained until discharged. Sgt. HELM wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 1 star, representing the Bismark Archipelago Campaign. He says he doesn’t know just exactly what he is going to do now, but first of all he is going to get caught up on his sleeping. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- S. Sgt. Lloyd BAILEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY, arrived here Thursday evening after spending a few days in Kankakee with this sister, Miss Juanita BAILEY. He received his discharge papers from the Walter Reed General Hospital in Washington, D.C., on June 19th on account of disability. Sgt. BAILEY entered the service on Dec. 1942, and shipped overseas in May 1943 as a paratrooper. Near St. Lo, France, on July 31, 1944, he was wounded by machine gun bullets piercing his leg. After recuperating from these wounds, he was again in the front line. On Sept. 25, 1944, near Aschen, Germany, he again was wounded by machine gun fire, the bullets penetrating his right wrist, rendering his hand useless. He landed back in the States on Feb. 2, and was sent to the Walter Reed Hospital, where he has since been a patient. In May, he was permitted to spend a 30 day furlough here with homefolks. Lloyd wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the European Theater of Operation with 3 stars, representing the battles of Normandy, Southern France and Germany. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Cpl. Charles W. GARRETT left here June 26 after enjoying a 45 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT and other relatives. They found that "Bill", as we know him, had a total of 91 points to his credit and on reporting back at Ft. Sheridan the 28th, was handed his discharge papers. Cpl. GARRETT entered the service on Jan. 13, 1942, and was shipped to Southwest Pacific in May 1942 as a member of the 9th Airborne Anti-Aircraft Battalion. He remained in this theater until March 31st, when he started home, arriving here on May 9th. Cpl. GARRETT wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars representing the Papaun Campaign, the New Guinea Campaign, and the East Indies Campaign as well as the Presidential Citation. Bill says he hasn’t got caught up on his loafing just yet but intends to get into some kind of work in the near future. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Wm. LUX attended the wedding of their cousin, Oren Earl EADE, Petty Officer 1c, to Miss Marian FROST at the First Christian Church in Flora, Ill. on July 3. They attended a reception for the couple at the home of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard FROST.

- Miss Frances BAILEY, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil BAILEY of this city, and Richard GRAY, S1c, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lavern GRAY of Alma, were married on June 28 in the Methodist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Wayne ROBB, and Mrs. G.E. SHREFFLER were the attendants. A reception was held after the ceremony at Bargh’s Drug Store. A list of guests attending was included.

- Mrs. Yetta HAMILTON, formerly of this city, was married to L.N. DRUMMOND in Detroit, Mich. on June 27. The groom was formerly of Mattoon and is an orderly in the Eloise Hospital, Dearborn, Mich.

- Mrs. Fannie K. EAGAN was taken in the Linton Ambulance to St. Anthony’s Hospital in Effingham, Monday. She is suffering from a serious heart condition.

- Lt. (jg) and Mrs. Harold HUGGINS and son, Richard Carl, arrived here Tuesday to spend a few days with his mother, Mrs. Martha HUGGINS. Lt. HUGGINS has spent 11 months with an LST Floatilla Staff at Southhampton, England. He came home on the Queen Mary, landing June 20. Mrs. HUGGINS and her son make their home in Quincy.

- Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS have a son, born July 4 in the Salem Hospital.

- Leroy HEEG of Springfield, Ohio, spent the 4th here with his grandmother, Mrs. Rebecca ZIEGLER. He has recently been discharged from the Navy.

- Edith ARNOLD SOUTIER, daughter of John M. and Katherine Elizabeth ARNOLD, was born March 28, 188 at old Fosterburg, suffered a paralytic stroke Saturday, and died 2 hours later at the family home. She married Marshall SOUTIER, Feb. 5, 1915 at Springfield, Ill., a short time later coming to the old SOUTIER homestead where they fought the battles of life together until her life span had ended. They had 3 children: Louie Burdette, Katherine, and Mary Dell. While quite young, Edith’s mother died, and she went to live with Dr. and Mrs. J.F. JONES, of the Arnold Chapel community, remaining with them until her marriage. In 1903 she was converted in a revival meeting at Arnold Chapel associating with that congregation, later transferring her membership to Zion. She was one of 9 brothers and sisters and 2 half-brothers, only 3 of whom survive her. Those who remain are: her husband; the 3 children, Cpl. Louie Burdette with the armed forces in Europe; Katherine, at home; and Mrs. Mary Dell JOHNSON of Salem; 1 son-in-law, Loren JOHNSON; granddaughters; 2 sisters, Mrs. Lillie McGUIRE, and Mrs. Georgie COLLINS of Chicago; 1 brother, Burdette ARNOLD of Iowa; and 1 half-brother, Rollin ARNOLD of Northern Illinois.

- Cpl. Reid HENRY, Miss Fanney HENRY, Mr. and Mrs. Ross HENRY, and 3 sons of Centralia, and C.A. BOONE were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Bryan PITTS, Sunday. Cpl. HENRY is spending a 60 day furlough with relatives. He was recently liberated from a German prison camp.

- Here’s a nice letter from T4 Robert BASS, dated 10 June, Eisloben, Germany. He says: Just a few lines to let you know how much I am enjoying the Kinmundy paper. I like best to read the nice letters you print in it from the boys of Kinmundy. I sure wish I could meet some of them. I am now at Eisloben, Germany. It sure has been a long road from Normandy Beach. I am sure a lot of the Kinmundy boys have traveled through the same country I have. I say traveled, because you see, I wasn’t exactly in the front lines, being in the medics and with an Engineer Battalion Aid Station. A lot of the boys ere in the front lines building bridges under enemy fire. I consider myself lucky as I have never heard a bullet sing past my head, but have heard plenty of 88 shells coming and have had several close calls from bombs at the beaches of St. Lo, and in Germany. I sure wish I could of visited with Lt. Grace ARNOLD. You see, we used to live neighbors with them when they lived on the George REESE place, west of town. I never was able to find out what hospital she worked at. I was sure glad to hear she was back in the states again. I sure hope when some of the boys I know write to you again they are able to say what town they are in and what outfit, so I can be on the lookout for them. Well, Mr. VALLOW, this is about all I can think of this time, and I thank you again for the paper and so long for this time.

- Here’s one from PFC Grover VETETO, dated 18 June Bologna, Italy. He says: Thought I would write you a few lines to let you know I am still getting the Kinmundy Express and am very glad to get it. Sometimes they are a little late getting to me, but still they build up my morale and make me feel good to read the news from the old home town. I received 3 papers last night, one dated May 17, and that is not bad. Yes, the war is over here, but we still have a bigger enemy yet to fight. But you know we will win the victory with Japan. Over here we don’t think the Japs will last over 6 months. We are at the point to open up and give them all we got. We have here in the hospital about 800 Germans, and boy, they sure are bruised up. We ask them what they thought of our artillery? And the answer that they gave us was, a white man can’t live under it. They seem to be happy here and they say they are glad the war is over and that they never want to fight again, of course, we don’t know. But we thank God that it is over here now, and we will get on our knees and pray to God, thanking him for the victory when we can wave our colors over Japan. That day is coming closer and closer each day. I think I will be coming home sometime in August on furlough. I am glad to see so many nice letters in the paper that the boys have written. And I am also glad to see the boys get home. But all I am waiting for is that discharge, and once I get it the Statue of Liberty is going to have to turn around to see me again. When I get home all I want to do is rest up for a couple of weeks, and get caught up on my sleep, and forget all about this place over here. Of course, it is not so bad at times, you can sit on the sidewalk in the evenings and watch the world go by. But about all you see is some woman with a baby under each arm and a load on her head and the old man coming along smoking an American cigarette, taking life easy. I am afraid that some of us is going to try that when we get back home. Do you think it would work? Some of the boys have married over here, and are enjoying life. But for myself, I haven’t seen anything to fall in love with. I wouldn’t give my wife for any girl I’ve seen over here. I love my wife and son and I’m true to them and I never came over here on a pleasure trip. But thank God it would be a pleasure to get away. I’ve never liked Italy from the first sight. But it is not what we like, it is what we have to take. I don’t know how I would act to get back home and get a good home cooked meal. We had steak for dinner today and I think it was some they had left over from the last war. It was so tough you couldn’t stick your fork in the gravy. But the cooks here sure know their stuff. They can cook a meal in 30 minutes that a dog can’t eat in a week. One day we have Spam and beans and the next we have Spam and Italian cherries. Well, I must close for now and get to work. Good luck and Best Wishes to all. Thanks again for the paper.

- "My Pal": Here’s a song composed by Cpl. Adolph TOCKSTEIN, now in Germany, in memory of Sgt. Carl PURCELL, who was killed in action in Belgium on Jan. 18. It is sung to the tune of "A Soldier’s Sweetheart". Once I had a buddie - A pal good and true - The Angels called for him one day - Up there in the heavenly blue. Wherever the boys were gathered - You’d always find him around - With a happy smile and jolly air - He’d never let you down. Uncle Sam called him one day - To duty far away - In the battle he fought for his country - Our loved ones can live in peace today. Heroes, there are so many - But there’s one I’ll never forget - He will always be remembered - In memorize I can see him yet. Some day I know I’ll meet him - Up there in the heaven above - What a happy though to have in mind - For Those that we all love. Carl I know you are happy - Up there with the heavenly band - Good bye old pal - I’ll miss you - Until we meet again.

- A picnic dinner was enjoyed Sunday at the I.C. Lake by a number of friends, honoring Mr. and Mrs. Roland ALDERSON, before they leave for their new home in Florida.

- Pvt. Pleasant ROBNETT is enjoying his first furlough home.

- Wayne PIGG, ARM2c, and wife came Sunday to visit a few days with his parents, Mrs. R.H. PIGG.

- Mrs. Icy GARRETT spent the 4th with Mrs. Allie THOMAS and daughters in Foster twp.

- Among the WAC eligible to wear the Golden Wreath on their uniforms, is Cpl. Florence E. DOOLEN, daughter of Mrs. Effie ROBB of this city.

- East Zion: Sunday evening callers at the Charley ARNOLD home were: Mr. and Mrs. Dee HOPKINS and Danny, Mrs. A.D. NICHOLS, Mrs. Roy DOOLEN and Mrs. Dresden HEADLEY.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and family spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Selby GARRETT of Alma.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde GARRETT and family spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna, were callers at the Sam LOWE home Friday night.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and daughter, Judy Ann, ate Sunday dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Mack ROBB.

- Pvt. Donald SHAFFER is spending a 10 day furlough with homefolks while enroute from Camp Walters, Texas to Fort Riley, Kansas.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Virgil ROBINSON and children spent Saturday night and Sunday with her parents, Claude HIESTAND. Virgil just recently received his discharge from the army.

- Pleasant Grove: June 27th being Merle and Virl SEE’s birthday, Mrs. Merle SEE gave them a surprise party, entertaining a number of relatives and friends.

- Wilson School: Fred KLEISS and family were in Altamont Monday attending Memorial services of a friend, M. Sgt. John RHODES, who lost his life May 14 on a B-29 over Tinian Island.

- Meadow Branch: Cpl. Chas. BERRY and little son visited with her brother-in-law and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Ennos DAVIDSON of Chicago at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer BERRY of Vandalia, last Thursday.

- W.F. ROBB and L.J. HAMMER were in Sumner Sunday visiting in the Dale HAMMER home. Mrs. HAMMER accompanied them home after a 3 weeks stay. Mrs. ROBB and Dale are improving.

July 12, 1945:

- We believe that by this time most of you readers are pretty well acquainted with Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM of Alma. Col. BROOM is the Commanding Officer of an air field near Florence, Italy. He has developed into our No. 1 foreign correspondent. His letters have all been interesting and we have enjoyed reproducing them for you. This time, Col. BROOM writes a story on a trip he made into Egypt and Palestine. It is rather lengthy and so we will give you part of it and the rest next week. (The story was included, as well as a picture of Lt. BROOM.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL of Alma, have received word from their son, Sgt. John D. PURCELL, that he was able to leave the hospital and go back into action with his old outfit. Sgt. PURCELL entered the service Oct. 20, 1942, and shipped overseas in Aug. 1944, landing in Hawaii. From there he went to the Philippines. He was with the 96th Division in the battles of Leyte and Okinawa. He was wounded on Okinawa, April 8, 1945. He was released from a hospital in the Meriannas May 25th and sent back into action. Besides the Purple Heart, Sgt. PURCELL wears the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, as well as his Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with at least 2 stars. We sincerely hope this good lad, as well as all the others, will soon be home. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. John REYNOLDS of Sandoval, announce the marriage of their daughter, Reva, to Carl CRAIN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN of Kinmundy, on June 30, performed by Police Magistrate Noah PARKER of Salem. The attendants were Miss Alpha Jean TOBER of Sandoval, and Kenneth SHUFELDT of Kinmundy. The couple is now living in Sandoval.

- Mr. and Mrs. Wm. COLE of Woodlawn have a baby girl.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ernest BASSETT were made extremely happy last Saturday morning to see their son, Sgt. James A. BASSETT, come home after spending 41 months overseas. They knew that he was back in the states but they didn’t know just when he would arrive home. This happy couple feel like they are sitting on top of the world now as this was the second son to return home from overseas. Sgt. BASSETT entered the service March 20, 1941, and shipped overseas Jan. 23, 1942 landing in Australia. From there he went to new Caledonia, then to Guadacanal, the Fiji Islands, Bougainville, and then the Philippines. He landed back here in the states on June 28. Upon his arrival at Ft. Sheridan, they found that he had 105 points and so they handed him his discharge papers rather than a furlough. Sgt. BASSETT wears the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Good Conduct Medal, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Guadacanal, Bougainville, and the Philippines. He also wears the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 star, presented by the Philippine Government. He was a member of the 132d Infantry Battalion. Sgt. BASSETT has a brother, PFC Lawrence, in the service who is now stationed at Camp McCoy, Wis., after spending 32 months in the Southwest Pacific Theater. Sgt. BASSETT says all he wants to do now is just lie around home and get caught up on his loafing as well as eating his fill of mother’s fried chicken. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Raymond BASS of Goshen, entertained a dinner party June 30, in honor of Mrs. BASS’ brother, Floyd DENHAM, who celebrated his birthday. A list of those attending was included.

- Mrs. Cora PARRILL of Glasgow, Mo., succumbed suddenly to a heart attack last Friday at the home of Mrs. B.E. SIPLE and Mrs. Ed HOHLT. Her husband, the late F.M. PARRILL, who died in 1935, was a brother of Mrs. SIPLE, Mrs. HOHLT, and Mrs. GRISSOM of this city. She came about 2 months ago to spend the summer months with these sisters. Services held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Iuka Cemetery by the side of her husband.

- Miss Avis Jean CRESS of Goshen, daughter of the late Harry A. CRESS, became the bride of Floyd DENHAM, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilford DENHAM, of Goshen on June 30 at the First Baptist Church there. The maid of honor was Mrs. Raymond BASS, sister of the groom, and the bridesmaid was Mrs. Wayne CRESS, sister-in-law of the bride. Raymond BASS, brother-in-law of the groom was bestman, and George CRIPE and Roy DONAT were ushers.

- T. Sgt. Chloris WILLIAMS Helped Wreck German Factories, Now Putting Them Back: Here’s a nice letter from T. Sgt. Chloris WILLIAMS, dated 25 June, in Germany. He says: Have some time for writing a few letters, so think it about time I write and let you know that I appreciate receiving your paper very much. Also to let you know that my address has been changed. As a matter of fact, it has been changed for several months but I was still receiving your paper regularly, since I am still connected with my old outfit. At present I am in the Industrial Control Division and Local Purchase. I find the work most interesting, but guess I’m just a little mixed up. During our dash across Germany I was given the job of entering factories and taking anything that could be used by our army and now I am given the job of putting it back and getting the factories in operation again, only making different items than what they were making during war time. I have been in the Third Army since there was a Third Army, Ha. So think I will be around here for some time, since I seem to have been caught short of the required points for a discharge. In other words, I was caught with my points down. Must close. Thanks again for your paper.

- Junior VANSCYOC, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC, who is serving in the Navy in the Southwest Pacific, has been advanced from Seaman 2c to Seaman 1c

- Born to Mrs. Glorine WAGONER, a son, on July 6, named Charles Earl.

- Green Ridge: PFC Henry WILLIAMS is spending a 10 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest WILLIAMS.

- Green Ridge: Pvt. Charles PERGL has returned from Jackson, Mich. where he was with his brother before returning to camp after a 60 day furlough.

- Mrs. W.F. ROBB returned home Sunday from a visit in Sumner with her daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and children.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT visited Sunday at the Guy CHANDLER and Elmer FRIZZELL homes.

- Omega: A farewell supper was given Robert FULFER Sunday night at the Wagner garage. A large crowd attended and enjoyed the eats and also the music given by the Brown Quartet. He left for service in Army, Tuesday.

PFC Leon JONES returned to Miss. Thursday after enjoying an 18 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edgar JONES.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ralph REEDER and son, Sgt. Ralph REEDER of Granite City, were calling at the Paulene JOHNSON home Friday. Sgt. Ralph is home on furlough having been in England for 20 months with DOOLITTLE. After his furlough he goes to Camp Grant for reassignment.

- Junior GARRETT S2c of Indianapolis, Ind. spent the weekend here with his parents, B.O. GARRETT and family.

- Meacham: Phillip SHORT received his discharge from the army at the Separation Center, Ft. Sheridan, June 30, and is visiting relatives and friends in the neighborhood for a couple of weeks.

- Meacham: Mrs. E.G. DILLON and Miss Anna DILLON attended funeral services in Mason, Ill. for Grandma BROOM, Saturday.

- East Zion: Mrs. Lucille HEADLEY has received the Purple Heart which was awarded her husband, PFC A.D. HEADLEY, for wounds received in action in Iwo Jima.

- East Zion: Mrs. James BASSETT, Mrs. Richard WILLIAMS, Mrs. Marvin BASSETT and daughter called at the Chas. ARNOLD and A.D. NICHOLS homes Sunday afternoon.

- East Zion: Sgt. James BASSETT of the U.S. Army, who has spent 42 months in Southwest Pacific called at the Eli GREEN home Sunday night.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT, Ruth WILLIAMS and Nellie Fern BASSETT attended a show in Salem Monday night.

- Mr. and Mrs. A.C. DUNLAP and son, Mr. and Mrs. Carl DUNLAP and Mrs. Anna KOLB were in Alma last Thursday attending the funeral of True CLAYTOR.

- Lt. (jg) and Mrs. Harold HUGGINS and mother, Mrs. E.C. HUGGINS, Mrs. C.F. PRUETT and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT were in St. Louis Tuesday attending the opera "The Cat and the Fiddle".

July 19, 1945:

- The second part of Lt. Col. John A. BROOM’s story of his trip through Egypt and Palestine was printed.

- Wayne PIGG, aviation chief radioman, U.S.N., left Tuesday after spending a 30 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. PIGG. He was accompanied here by his wife, who has been making her home in Florida. She will remain here a few days until Wayne is settled in his new assignment at Memphis, Tenn. Wayne enlisted in the Navy Sept. 10, 1940, and after much training in radio work, he left the states Jan. 25, 1944, for a tour of duty with Patrol Bombing Squadron 209 operating from Naval Bases in Central America and the Carribean. In Martin Mariners, twin engine long-range flying boats, they flew thousands of miles of Carribean waters searching for prowling U-boats. In addition, the airmen of 209 flew on many long-range security patrols and convoy escorts flights in protecting the steady flow of supplies to the European Theater. The squadron, which served overseas 16 months, now will receive additional training and eventual reassignment. Wayne was married to Miss Margaret PITTMAN of Cocoa, Fla. on Oct. 8, 1943. (A picture accompanied this article)

- Cadet Nurse Nancy LOWE and Cadet Nurse Miss KISH of St. Louis, are visiting at the home of Miss LOWE’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.R. LOWE.

- Pvt. George H. BARGH, of Texas, is spending his furlough here with his mother, Mrs. Mildred BARGH and Jo.

- John FRENCH left here Monday afternoon with the full expection of going to New York to enlist in the Maritime Service and becoming a cook on ship. He want to explore the Carribean and Mediterrian Seas. He expects to be back in Kinmundy in the latter part of the week.

- S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, was honorably discharged from the army at the Separation Center at Ft. Douglas, Utah, on July 9. Sgt. BROOM was discharged on the point system, having 105 points. Sgt. BROOM enlisted in the Air Corps at Chanute Field, Ill. on Sept. 20, 1940, and shipped overseas with the Fighter Squadron on Jan. 12, 1942, spending about 15 days in Australia, then continuing to India, serving 24 months overseas in China, Burma, and India. Sgt. BROOM arrived back in the States on Nov. 22, 1944. He was granted a 30 day furlough, which was spent with his parents, after which he was assigned to an air base at Kearns, Utah. He remained there until receiving his discharge. He is enlisted to wear the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with 3 bronze stars. Sgt. BROOM has 3 other brothers still in the service: Charles, who is a Lt. in the Navy, stationed at Baltimore, Md.; John, a Lt. Col., who is Commanding Officer of an Air Base near Florence, Italy; and Ernest, an Ensign in the Navy, on sea duty in the Central Pacific. - "Gosh, it seems good to get back in civilian clothes again." (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Guy O. PERRY, 37, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. PERRY, died in Salem at the home of his sister, Mrs. Stephen STOKELY, after a lingering illness of several years of heart trouble. The family had lived on a farm near Omega, but until about a year ago, they moved into town and operated a small grocery store and filling station. He is survived by his wife, Mildred; 2 small sons, and a sister, Mrs. Stephen STOKELY of Salem. Services were held from the Christian Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Rev. Chester ESQUE, former pastor of the local Christian Church, died Wednesday.

- Another Believe It or Not: Mr. Clyde BASSETT reports to us that he has a ewe that is certainly doing her bit to help the meat shortage. This certain ewe, on Dec. 21 last, gave birth to twin lambs. These lambs were raised and sent to market a couple of weeks ago weighing 85 lbs. each. Then on July 12, this same ewe gave birth to another lamb which is hail and hearty and doing fine. Now Clyde, you may have something there. Why not propagate this breed of sheep that will produce two crops of lambs per year.

- Kenneth SHUFELDT, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marion SHUFELDT, spent the weekend in the Salem Hospital suffering from bruises received when his car overturned Friday night. He was discharged from the Hospital Monday and is now recuperating at home.

- Helen, the 4 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles EAGAN, residing on the J.H. DISS farm northwest of this city was fatally burned Sunday morning while playing with a fire. Mr. and Mrs. EAGAN had left their children at the house while they went a short distance to pick blackberries. When they heard the children screaming, they returned to find the daughter badly burned. It appears as though, Helen, and her 5 year old brother had attempted to make a fire in the yard, by pouring gasoline on some cobs and lighting them. When the parents reached the house, the clothes were completely burned from the girl. They rushed her to the Effingham Hospital where she died. Services were held in Farina on Tuesday with interment in Farina Cemetery.

- Roy MISELBROOK, the chief apiarist of Meacham twp., brought into our office last Saturday, a stalk of sweet clover measuring 10 ft. 7 in. He had bragged about having sweet clover 8 feet tall but no one believed him. This clover was sewn by his son, Freddie, in June 1944 before he answered Uncle Sam’s invitation. Freddie is now stationed at Guterslaw, Germany, in a U.S. Post Office.

- Brown: Dean BAKER, wife and daughters, and Martha and Mary MONICAL attended the SOUTHWARD Reunion in Bryan Memorial Park, Sunday.

- Swift School: Raymond SWIFT injured 3 of his fingers badly on Tuesday while combining rye for Orie ATKINS. The fingers were caught in the combine while it was in motion, the was treated immediately at Salem.

- Swift School: Keith GREEN, who has completed his boot training at Great Lakes, is spending his first leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN.

- Swift School: Callers of Mrs. Leland BRASEL Wednesday were: Mrs. Roy HULSEY, Mrs. Clyde BALLANCE, Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY, Mrs. Fred GAMMON, and Mary Evelyn BASSETT.

- Swift School: Darrell LIVESAY spent the weekend with his mother, Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY and daughter, Mrs. Irene GAMMON. The LIVESAY family left Tuesday for Decatur where Mr. LIVESAY has employment.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae, visited with Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES and son, Darvin, of Patoka Sunday.

- Swift School: Helen and Mary Evelyn BASSETT spent Saturday night and Sunday with Virginia HELPINGSTINE.

- Meacham: Tuesday evening, this neighborhood gave a rousing charivari for Mr. and Mrs. Carl CRAIN at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN. Nearly 100 guests were present. Mr. and Mrs. CRAIN are residents of Sandoval where Carl has employment. Treats of candy bars and cigars were passed around and enjoyed.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL called on Mrs. Florence STORRS Friday evening.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Herman SOLDNER called on Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL Saturday evening.

- Pvt. George BARGH, Jr. is enjoying furlough here with his family and friends. Jr. has just completed basic training in Texas.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Laura ROSE and Mrs. Joe MEDLEY were in Salem last Monday taking little Billy Joe MEDLEY to the doctor. He fell off the bed and broke her collar bone.

- Pleasant Grove: Pvt. Jackie JENKINS of Camp Gordon, Ga. is spending a 14 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul JENKINS and other relatives.

- Junior GARRETT, S1c, of Indianapolis, Ind. spent the weekend here with his parents.

- Omega: This community was sorry to hear of the death of Guy PERRY, a former resident of this community.

- Omega: A.A. PERRY and Earl McGEE are having their houses wired for electricity.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN have a son who was born July 9 at Vandalia Hospital named Billy Dean.

- Mr. and Mrs. F.O. GRISSOM, Mrs. B.E. SIPLE and Mrs. Ed HOHLT spent Sunday in Iuka helping celebrate the birthday of their sister, Mrs. Emma SMITH.

July 26, 1945:

- The third portion of the story written by Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr. of Italy, about his trip thru Egypt and Palestine, was printed.

- Cpl. Edwin SHREFFLER Arrives Home: Cpl. Edwin SHREFFLER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon SHREFFLER, residing south of Alma, arrived here last Thursday night to enjoy a 30 day furlough with his wife and parents. Cpl. SHREFFLER entered the service Oct. 6, 1942, and shipped overseas Nov. 4, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, Luxembourg, Belgium and finally into Germany. He was a member of the 87th Division, 334th Field Artillery. He landed back in the states on July 16. After his furlough had expired, he will report back to Camp Grant and then will be sent to Ft. Benning, Ga., for further training before departing for the Southwest Pacific. Cpl. SHREFFLER wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars, representing the battles of Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Germany. On May 22, 1944, he was married to Miss Norma GARRETT of this city. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- John FRENCH returned home Friday evening. He didn’t take his expected cruise. However, he did cruise on Lake Michigan far enough to read the original sign "Schlitz, the Beer that made Milwaukee famous". That was enough. He turned around and came home.

- Mr. and Mrs. Chester KLINE have received word from their son, Charles, stating that he has been promoted to Master Sergeant. Charles is still on the Western Front.

- Sgt. Beryl DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, arrived home Monday morning to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife and son and parents. Sgt. DISS entered the service Nov. 11, 1942, and shipped overseas Oct. 5, 1944, landing in France. From there he went to Luxembourg, then into Germany, and then into Austria. He served with the 5th Division, 5th Quartermaster Corps. He landed back in the states on July 19. After spending his furlough here, he will report back to Camp Grant and then be sent to Camp Campbell for further training. Sgt. DISS wears the Good Conduct Medal, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles East of the Rhine, West of the Rhine, and Vosges Mountains. He also wears the unit citation for meritorious service and the Leader in Combat Ribbon. On May 10, 1944, he was married to Miss Eileen BRUBAKER of Salem. They have a 4 month old son, Danny Joe. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Tommie, the 3 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred BOYD, was painfully burned last Saturday by stumbling and falling into a bucket of boiling water. He was taken to Salem Hospital for treatment. He was able to return home on Tuesday and is doing alright.

- Mr. and Mrs. George POWELL of Belleville moved their household goods here Saturday and have taken up residence in the Lee BARBEE property which they recently purchased. Mrs. POWELL is a sister of Mrs. Jessie SHELLY, who has lived with us several years.

- Helen Florence EAGAN, named for her maternal and paternal grandmothers, was born July 22, 1941, and died in the Effingham Hospital as a result of second degree burns, July 15, 1945. She was the second of five children born to Charles and Louise VINCENT EAGAN. She is survived by her parents; 2 brothers, Bobby and Frank; 2 sisters, Ruth Ann and Frieda Mae, all of St. Peter; 1 great aunt, Edna BLURTON of Farina, and several uncles, aunts, and cousins. Services were held at the Guin and Stonecipher Funeral Parlors with interment in Farina Cemetery.

- Our subscriptions fund for papers for the boys and girls in the service is lagging just a little bit. And unless it picks up within the next couple of weeks, we are afraid there will be plenty of boys who will be without a paper.

- Here’s a nice letter from Arno SPURLIN, MOMM 3c, who is sailing the seven seas. He makes us a proposition which we accept. Here is what he says: Although it has been several years since I left your fair city, and I know upon returning I would notice many unfamiliar faces. But to the friends who do remember me as a kid about town, I wish to say ‘hello’. In the latest edition of your most welcome paper received (dated April 30), in your very popular ‘Zatso’ column, I noticed your wishes were for more letters from one in the service. I also learned that at least a few of the boys had been sending you various things from the country in which they were in, and that you were very appreciative and put them to good use. Now where I am at, we have no briar pipes, or wooden shoes, but have grass skirts. I understand the pipe came in handy due to the storage of cigarettes, and of course, shoes are rationed. Now if there should develop a shortage in clothing, let me know your size and perhaps I can fix you up with a grass skirt, yes, and brassier to match. Maybe this is carrying a good man’s word a little too far. After all, you might look a little odd tripping up Quality Hill, in wooden shoes, wearing a grass skirt and smoking a briar pipe. But anyway, I wish to express my thanks to you and staff for the pleasure I receive from your work and efforts put forth in each edition. Particularly I do enjoy the Service letters and Zatso. I can pretty well figure out what MAHAN-MOTCH, W.R. DOOLEN, Jesse GEORGE, etc. are going the have on sale Saturday, but guessing on what is coming next in Zatso has got me beat. Sorry, I can’t tell you where I am at or what we are doing. But can thank you again for the paper.

- On July 24, Mrs. Harriet DEVORE, Kinmundy’s grand old lady, celebrated her 93rd birthday in a quiet manner in her home. Aunt Harriet, as she is affectionately called by almost everyone, is enjoying good health and is able to keep her own home. On Sunday, a birthday family dinner was held in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jed HARPSTER, near St. Peter. Two other birthdays were celebrated also, they were, Jed HARPSTER and Ed WEGMILLER, but Aunt Harriet was the guest of honor. Those attending the dinner were: Mr. and Mrs. Frank HUMPHREY, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. GARRETT, Mrs. Margaret GRAMLEY, Mrs. Annie SCOTT, Miss Jessie FISH, Mr. and Mrs. James HARPSTER and sons, James and Robert, Mrs. Florence CONANT and Mr. and Mrs. Ed WEGMILLER.

- Swift School: Keith GREEN, who has been spending his leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN, left Sunday for Great Lakes.

- Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY has gone to Decatur to be with her husband and son, who has employment there.

- Mrs. Fred GAMMON spent last Tuesday in Clinton, Ill. with Mrs. Don JACKSON and family. She was accompanied home by Mary Jane and Shirley JACKSON, who will spend 2 weeks here with Mrs. GAMMON and their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON.

- Junior GARRETT, S1c, and friend of Indianapolis, Ind. spent the weekend here with Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT.

Aug. 2, 1945:

- The 4th part of Lt. Col. John A. BROOM’s trip through Egypt and Palestine was printed.

- Somewhere in the Netherlands East Indies - M. Sgt. Carl G. DOOLEN, son of Mr. and Mrs. G.C. DOOLEN, Kinmundy, is now assigned as sergeant major at the 27th General Hospital, one of the largest and busiest general hospitals in Dutch New Guinea, handling battle casualties from the Philippines and other combat areas. The current daily average of patients in the hospital in which Sgt. DOOLEN is now on duty is over 2000 although it was originally organized for 1500 patients. A total of 18,000 patients have been handled by the hospital. Sgt. DOOLEN, a graduate of Kinmundy High School and Brown’s Business College, Centralia, entered the army in Jan. 1942, and received basic training at Fort Riley, Kan. Overseas since Jan. 1944, Sgt. DOOLEN was employed by the Adams Oil and Gas Co. in Centralia before entering the Army.

- On July 30, 1865, Thomas M. JONES, was born near Birmingham, Ala. On July 29, about 50 of his relatives and friends gathered at his home in Foster twp. to help him celebrate his birthday. A list of those attending was included.

- George M. BARBEE, son of V.P. and Rebecca BARBEE, was born in Kinmundy, Ill. Sept. 5, 1870, and died at his home in this city, July 25, 1945. He grew to manhood in this city and on Jan. 11, 1891, he was married to Miss Emma BALDWIN, also of this city. The deceased with his wife, spent several years in the state of Washington, where he was employed. A few years ago, this couple returned to the place of their birth. George was the last of a family of 4 children, two sons and two daughters. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mr. and Mrs. J.M. McCARTY of Iola, received word that their son, Rex, has now been promoted to Captain, and is now stationed in Paris. Rex entered the service in 1943, and is now 23 years old. He graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in 1941. Mr. and Mrs. McCARTY have 3 other sons in the service. T. Sgt. Max McCARTY, who has been stationed in England for the past 2 years, but is now in the States. Max, for the past 2˝ years has been Radio Instructor. He is now 24 years old and entered the service in 1942; PFC Lex McCARTY entered the service in 1944 and now is in Germany, arriving there in October. Before entering the service, Lex worked as a telegrapher while in the States and his work is much the same in Germany; Corp. Dale McCARTY entered the service in Jan. 1945, is now 18 years old, stationed Camp Robinson, Ark., where he is teaching Physical training. Dale graduated from Kinmundy H.S. in 1944. Mr. and Mrs. McCARTY also have a son-in-law in the service, Arthur COX, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur COX of Edgewood, who drowned June 2, 1945 in River Rhine, Germany. Arthur entered the service in 1944, and was 22 at the time of his death.

- Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS received a telegram yesterday morning stating that her son, Capt. Raymond ATKINS, had landed safely back in the U.S.A. from Italy where he had been stationed.

- Mr. and Mrs. J.A. HOLT and Ed JONES were in Loogootee today attending the funeral of their brother-in-law, Oscar CHANCE, who died Tuesday morning in the home of his daughter, Mrs. Blossom HARPSTER, at Loogootee, with whom he resided. Interment was made in the cemetery at Salem by the side of his companion. He was a brother of Clarence of Salem.

- Madison, Wis. - Sgt. Harry R. LECKRONE, 27, husband of Donna Louise LECKRONE, of Salem, has been graduated from AAF Training Command’s aircraft radio mechanics school at Truax Field.

- Miss Veda MEYER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chris MEYER, of the Wilson School District, submitted to an appendectomy in Salem Hospital, Tuesday.

- James JONES of the Swift School District entered Effingham Hospital Monday suffering from a liver complication.

- The annual Arnold Chapel picnic will be held in the Merle JONES Grove, Aug. 4. The Victory Quartet of Flora will furnish the entertainment. The Ladies Aid of Arnold Chapel will serve lunch.

- Here’s a nice letter from Cpl. John "Bill" McCULLEY, dated 17 July, Baguio Luzon, Philippine Islands. Here is what he says: Will try and write you a few lines this evening to let you know I am all O.K. and hope everyone else around the home town is the same. I hear that you are having quite of bit of rain at home this summer. Well, we sure are getting our fair share of the rain and foggy weather now. This has been a real nice climate up until now. I see now why all the Filippinos were always talking about Baguio when we were in the lowlands. Of a night you need 3 or 4 G.I. blankets to crawl under. Here of a day you have to do quite a bit of work to get up a sweat and it’s not often that I work up a sweat now. Our division has been relieved of front line duty so now we are in the rear taking it pretty easy. The Illinois National Guard Division has made quite a name for itself during the Battle for Baguio. Our division has prepared a paper with quite a few pictures of Baguio that I am sending you. Baguio is sure not what it used to be, as you can see by the pictures where the Cathedral was the only building is the whole city was left undamaged. There were several places around here where the going was so rough, we couldn’t get our troops in with supplies to front line troops. These mountain people (Igorots as they are called), were lifesavers for us. The women do most of the work up here as you can see in the picture. The loads they carry on their backs and heads; some of these women carry as much as 75 to 80 lbs. of rations or ammo on their heads. I think I had better round up some of these women and bring them home when I return, then I can lay in the shade, and catch up on my fishing. The cemetery shown in the picture is the one where Floyd EAGAN is buried. The hospital unit the Capt. Charles W. YOUNG is with is now here in Baguio, so we visit back and forth quite often. I guess a few of the boys from around home are getting discharged on the point system. I have 82 points and sure have been hoping they would lower the amount of points required; but so far they haven’t announced a new score for us over here. I guess my only hope is for the Jap Rats to throw in the towel. I guess this letter is about long enough for this time, so had better come to an end. Keep the wheels of the press rolling, Mr. VALLOW, as all the boys in my tent as well as myself enjoy getting the paper and reading the other boys’ letters and your famous Zatso column.

- Pleasant Grove: Joe MEDLEY, S2c, of St. Louis spent last Saturday and Sunday here with his wife and children, and attended the basket dinner at the Paul JENKINS home on Sunday for Jackie, who was home on furlough.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Ralph HIESTAND, Mr. and Mrs. Herschel ROSE and daughter, and Mr. and Mrs. Claude ROSE and children visited Sunday with Pearl ROSE and family. Claude had just returned from taking Russell to the Doctor, he has a broken collar bone, hurt while trying to catch a horse.

- Pleasant Grove: The Homecoming and Basket Dinner is to be held at Pleasant Grove on Sunday, Aug. 12.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ben JENKINS received a letter from their son, Cpl. Ralph E. JENKINS, telling how happy he was made by meeting a couple of boys from the old hometown, who were Harold ROBB and Russell SHAFFER. The boys spent several evenings together talking about the good old days back in Kinmundy and they are planning on being together quite often.

- Cpl. Albert D. CORRELL of Harling, Texas is spending a furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. CORRELL and other relatives and friends.

- Shriver School: Mr. and Mrs. Robert SMITH have a baby daughter born Saturday named Nancy Kay.

- Lt. and Mrs. Francis HUGGINS and little son are enjoying a visit here with their mother, Mrs. Margaret HUGGINS and other relatives.

- Mr. and Mrs. H.W. WHITTENBERG and son of Madisonville, Ky., and Mr. and Mrs. H.J. CLINEBELL and daughter of Springfield spent the weekend with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. WHITTENBERG’s relatives near Nashville, Ill.

- Swift School: Sunday was the 80th birthday of Tom JONES and a birthday dinner was held in his home. Those attending: W.L. GREEN and family, Albert MALINSKY and wife, Frank, Mae and Fern GREEN, Elmer BASSETT, Lewis JONES and family, W.H. JONES and wife, Noah JONES and family of Centralia, Albert JONES of Chicago, Gifford JONES of Santa Monica, Cal., and Lester HOWELL and family of Greenup. Mr. JONES just returned from the hospital in Vandalia in much improved health.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Raymond SWIFT and daughter, Dorothy, were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. EAGAN, it being Mrs. EAGAN’s birthday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna, visited at the Frank JONES home Sunday evening.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Russell SWIFT and family of Alma, and Mr. and Mrs. Burdette SWIFT of Ewing spent Thursday with Mr. and Mrs. Raymond SWIFT and daughter. Ice cream was served honoring Burdette, who just returned from Germany, and is spending a 30 day furlough with his wife, parents, and relatives.

Aug. 9, 1945:

- Another section of Lt. Col. John A. BROOM Jr.’s trip through Egypt and Palestine was printed.

- With the 30th Infantry division in Assembly Area Command, France - PFC Charley S. NEAL of R.R. 4, Kinmundy, and PFC Everett D. LANSFORD, of Alma, enroute home from Europe with the "Old Hickory" Division which broke up Germany’s supreme counter-offense in Normandy, is now being processed at Camp Oklahoma City, an infantry deployment center operated by the Assembly Area Command. Landing on the French coast on D plus 4, the 30th, commanded by Major General L. S. HOBBS, spearheaded the St. Lo breakthrough, poured across northern France, Belgium, and Holland, and then crashed through the Siegfried Line to complete the encirclement of Aachen. On Dec. 17, 1944, the division wheeled south to help stop Runstedt’s lightning attack in the Ardennes. After some bitter fighting in the Stavelot-Malmedy sector they sent the Germans reeling back frustrating Nazi plans to seize Belgium’s northern ports, stunned SS Panzer troops taken prisoner and gasping Nazi radio commentators spoke of having yielded to "Roosevelt’s SS" in this battle. Out for the kill, the 30th led the 9th Army’s assault crossing of the Rhine on March 24 and fought it’s way more than 200 miles to the Elbe of Madgeburg where the Russians and Americans clasped hands in an historic meeting. PFC NEAL is the son of Roy E. NEAL, R.R. 4, Kinmundy. He holds the following decorations Good Conduct Ribbon, and ETO Ribbon with 5 stars. PFC LANSFORD is the son of Myrtle LANSFORD, Alma, Ill. He holds five battle participating stars.

- Ruben GARNER has sold his blacksmith tools to Paul HANNA who is busy now hammering the anvil. About a month ago, Mr. GARNER sold his building to William LUX, who intends to open a garage as soon as conditions will permit. Several months ago, Mr. GARNER sold his home in the east part of town to Walter LAMBIRD of Meacham twp. Now as to Mr. GARNER’s future, he says he doesn’t know. But first of all he intends to get caught up on some loafing and visiting relatives.

- 1st Lt. Raymond ATKINS arrived here Saturday night to spend a 30 day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS, after spending the past 16 months in sunny Italy. Lt. ATKINS entered the service June 23, 1942, and was commissioned Jan. 14, 1943. The following June, he was advanced to the rank of 1st Lieut. He shipped overseas in March 1944, landing in Oran, Africa. From there he went to Italy where he remained until Aug. 1, when he sailed for home. He was a member of the 361st Combat Team, a part of the 91st Division. He wears the Middle European and Eastern Theater Ribbon, with 3 stars, representing the battles of Rome-Arno, Northern Appenines and Po Valley. After his leave has expired, he will report to Ft. Sills, Okla. for further instructions.

- With the 32nd Division in Northern Luzon, P.I. - Staff Sergeant Lyle E. BARBEE, who lives in Kinmundy, Ill., has been awarded the Combat Infantry Badge for exemplary conduct under enemy fire. Entering the army in Jan. 1945, he has been with the 126th Infantry of the famed 32nd (Red Arrow) Division in the SWPA for 25 months. He is a veteran of Saidor, Aitape, Morotai, and Leyte operations, and saw action in the Villa Verde-Santa Fe area in northern Luzon, where the 32 killed more than 9,000 Japanese during it’s 119 day drive up the tortuous Villa Verde Trail in the Caraballo Mountains. His wife, Sarah Olive, lives in Kinmundy.

- Here’s a nice letter from Cpl. Ralph JENKINS, dated 26 July, Bad Steben, Germany. He enclosed a picture of himself, Russell SHAFFER and Harold ROBB, taken together. Don’t you know these boys were tickled pink with this meeting. Here is what he says: Haven’t written you for some time, so thought I would write you a few lines this morning. First of all, I want to thank you for the paper, which I have been getting regular since the war ended. And I certainly enjoy it. When mother doesn’t write all the news, I get it in the paper. As far as coming home soon I don’t really know. We are doing a little training, waiting for the order to come in; where we are going, etc. It seems funny to me - boys going home with 5, 6, 7, and 8 months overseas duty overseas and here we sit, been overseas 18 months going on 19, of course, by us being a separate company, I guess, they forgot us. We have worked with a number of divisions such as the 82nd Airborne Div., 83rd Infantry Div., 8th Infantry Div., 9th Infantry Div., 4th Armored Div., 11th Armored Div., and others. Now for the most interesting paragraph of this letter. It is a story which won’t happen very often. This town Bad Steben, is a very small town about the size of Kinmundy. So here a couple of weeks ago, I was taking some prisoners to a hospital and on my way back I ran into Russell SHREFFLER, better known around home as ‘Germany’. And he is the first one I met since I have been overseas. I was really surprised and so was he. So we stood and talked for about 5 minutes, then he said, "Do you know that Harold ROBB is here?" Then I did nearly faint. So after he told me Harold was in town, I said, "Well, let’s go see him." So we looked him up. So when we looked Harold up, we went down to our Yank Club and had a nice conversation. We talked about the old home the most, and our experience overseas. I guess you can say we had a little reunion of our own. And here the other day, Russell was shipped out to some other Infantry Division as he is a low point soldier like most of us, and Harold is leaving Sunday, but he isn’t being sent out of his division, he is only going to another company of the 385th Infantry Regt. I have been with Harold practically every night. We live on the same street, he lives about 2 blocks from me and to think I was here in this town for a week and a half so was he, and we never knew it. Anyway we met and how happy we are. We have been with each other practically every night. One Sunday, Russell got a jeep and we went for a ride to take some pictures and to try and find Bill WILSON, but he had been shipped out 3 or 4 days. So we missed him or there would have been 4 hometown boys from a little town meeting in a little town. Anyway, we went over and saw the Russian soldiers where their line met ours and there took some pictures of the 3 of us together. I am sending you one, they came out very good and we were certainly glad of that. This world isn’t so big after all. Well Norris, I don’t know much more so will close. Hope you like the picture. Thanks again for the paper and here’s hoping I’ll be there soon to come in and thank you personally and that will be a great pleasure. So until I see you all I can say is keep the press rolling because every one of us is enjoying your paper very much. Well, will sign off to eat dinner, as it is 10 minutes till 12 o’clock.

- Here’s one from Junior VANSCYOC, S1c, who is sailing the seven seas aboard the U.S.S. Killen. He says: Since it has been some time that I have written you, I decided It was about time that I dropped you a few lines to let you know that I am still thinking of you all. I have been receiving the paper pretty regular but the second class mail doesn’t come through very fast and I get them all at once. The papers are maybe a month old, but it is still news to me no matter how old it is. I wish to thank you very much for sending the paper to me as I really appreciate it. Well, I am still sailing aboard the U.S.S. Killen, doesn’t seem like I am every going to get off it. I have been on it for 16 months now, should be about time for me to get off, but I guess time will tell. We have been to several places and the most interesting place I have been was Manila, P.I. The way it was torn up and that our money is worth exactly double, but the prices are so high, guess it is a good thing that it is doubled. I was also caught in the Brunie Bay Invasion in northern Boreno. I sure will be glad when this is all over so we can return home to stay. I must close and thanks again for the paper. P.S. Tell everyone hello and it is not over yet.

- Mr. and Mrs. Dale BALLANCE have a son, Jerry Lynn, born Aug. 5 in Vandalia Hospital.

- We’re Sorry To Do It: We are very sorry to have to do it, but next week we will start the task of dismantling our subscription list to the soldier boys. We have been carrying the campaign for subscriptions to these boys, but to day, we are short just about one half of the required amount for all the boys on our list. So, boys, if you do now receive your paper hereafter, just write and tell your folks they must have forgotten something.

- Brown: A large crowd attended the party at the Wayne SCHOOLEY home Tuesday in honor of their son, Dennis, who is spending a leave here.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and daughters, and Virginia HELPINGSTINE called on Mr. and Mrs. Claude HANNA Thursday night.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. F.B. BALLANCE, A.L. IRVIN of Patoka, Mr. and Mrs. T.E. IRVIN of Patoka and son, Edgar, who is spending a 30 day furlough after 2˝ years in European Theater of War, and Miss Betty BALLANCE of Springfield spent Sunday at the A.D. NICHOLS home.

- East Zion: James BASSETT of near Kinmundy called on Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN and sons Sunday night.

- East Zion: Mrs. Eli GREEN and sons, Larry and Billy, and Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD called Sunday afternoon in Patoka at the John BLANKENSHIP home.

- Meacham: Pvt. Andrew NEAL and family called on Mr. and Mrs. Herman SOLDNER recently. Pvt. NEAL was home on furlough.

- Meadow Branch: Word has been received that Loren JOHNSON was inducted into the Army July 18, and is now stationed at Camp Hood, Texas, in the anti-tank division. The last few years, Loren has worked in Salem, but was raised in the Meadow Branch vicinity and graduated from Kinmundy H.S. He is the 34th boy to be taken into the service, who once attended our school.

- Mr. and Mrs. Sam REICHERT attended the funeral of his brother, George REICHERT at West Point Church, Sunday.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ben JENKINS received a letter from their son, Cpl. Ralph E. JENKINS, telling what a surprise he got when his brother, Pvt. James E. JENKINS came to see him on a 24 hour pass. The boys were home together 2 years ago in July, and this is the first time they have met. He went to see Harold ROBB, who is stationed nearby. Pvt. James is stationed in Furth, Germany, and Ralph in Bad Steben, Germany. They are about 100 miles apart. The boys had a grand time together, visiting and taking pictures.

- Omega: Several from here attended the funeral for Will EBLIN in Romine twp., Tuesday.

- Mr. and Mrs. George R. POWELL entertained weekend guest in honor of Mrs. POWELL’s birthday, Aug. 4th. Those partaking in dinner Sunday were: Maynard BEARDSLEY and his mother, Mrs. A. BEARDSLEY, and Mrs. POWELL’s daughter, Mrs. Alice MOSS and granddaughters, Miss Jane and Dorothy MOSS, all of Belleville, and Mrs. S.E. SHELLY and Mrs. Lotta NEIL HEINRICH of this city.

- Miss Eula CRAIG and her mother spent last Saturday with Mr. and Mrs. Fred CRAIG celebrating Eula’s and Fred’s birthdays. They made ice cream and Mrs. Prudence WILKINSON and Mrs. Effie WINFREE of Nashville were guests.

Aug. 16, 1945:

- The War is Over, Citizens Celebrate: After several days of anxious waiting, President TRUMAN came on the air at 6 p.m. Tuesday and officially announced the Japs had surrendered. Everyone listened the full length of the proclamation and then the celebrating began. Several of our citizens did not happen to have their radio tuned on at that moment, but as soon as they heard the fire siren screaming it’s blast, they knew what had taken place. Everybody was happy. Soon several cars collected and began to parade in the streets. Noises of all kinds were heard. The celebrating lasted for about an hour. Then our people began to calm down and think a little serious. Several wended their way to the Methodist Church and joined in giving thanks to God that it was over. Naturally, there was a tinge of sadness in the whole affair, thinking of the brave lads who gave their lives and would not come back when the other boys came marching home. Other churches held services yesterday morning. Places of business were closed thru the day and the postal employees were given a vacation. After the signing of the necessary papers, President TRUMAN will proclaim a V-Day. Gasoline rationing has ended. So has the rationing of fuel oil, including kerosene oil stoves, canned fruits, vegetables, and juices and other processed foods formerly requiring blue points.

- The peach picking season started in earnest Monday morning around Alma. All the growers were running wild looking for help. The peaches are a good price, selling for $3.00 and better for first class fruit. Whether this price will hold up remains to be seen as all of Southern Illinois appears to be picking at the same time this season. Locally, I.D. INGRAM and J.O. COX have not started their harvest as they cater to a trade desiring tree-ripened fruit.

- Here’s a nice letter from PFC Leroy SEE, who is sojourning in Germany. His letter was dated July 31 and says: Well, I just received one of your papers tonight that was dated July 28, but some of them take longer than that to get over here. I just got through reading it and decided that I have nothing else to do. I never got any mail tonight, so I didn’t have any letters to answer. I see where there are lots of the boys from around home who are getting discharges through the point system. But I haven’t got very many points, so a discharge isn’t worrying me very much, yet. And we still have a war in Japan yet to win, but I don’t think it is going to take much longer to do that, at least I hope not. Well, I am still here in Germany in the town of Herstelle, about 40 miles from the city of Kassel. We aren’t doing very much of any thing but passing the time away until they can redeploy us. I saw where Guin and Annette were home for Carl’s birthday. It is nice that they can come home once in awhile. Maybe, we will all be home to stay one of these days. Well, we are having pretty nice weather over here but it is a little cool here today. But from the weather reports that have gotten from back home, you have had a pretty wet season back there. And the farmers have had a hard time getting their crops out. Well, it is an awful hard job for me to think of anything to write so I will have to quit for this time. I enjoy your paper and hope they keep coming regular. So long and tell everyone hello, and keep things going until us boys all get back.

- Johnny JOHNSON, 7 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn JOHNSON, accidently stepped on a garden rake Friday, one of the prongs running through his foot. He was taken to Salem Hospital, and he is improving.

- Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER and Wes ROBB visited Sunday in Sumner with their son and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and family. They report Dale as much improved in health.

- With the 28th Infantry Division in Assembly Area Command - PFC Everett D. BASS is enroute home from the European Theater of Operations with the veteran "Bloody Division", which in 8 months saw vicious combat action from Normandy’s hedge rows to the heart of the Reich. The 28th quits its occupational duties in Germany July 5th and moved to Camp Pittsburgh, one of Assembly Area Command’s 17 redeployment camps near Reims. Entering action July 30, 1944, at St. Lo, the "Bloody Bucket" men battled across Normandy, paraded through Paris, proceeded east through Belgium and Luxembourg, and smashed into the Sigfried Line Sept. 11th - the first troops to enter Germany in strength. After its November fight in Hurtgen Forest, the 28th moved to the "quiet" Luxembourg sector. On Dec. 16, it caught full force of Von Rundstedt’s Ardnesses offensive. Quickly recuperating, the 28th moved south to help liberate Colmar in Alsace and drive to the Rhine. Within a month, it was again at the Rhine near Coblenz. PFC BASS is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, R.R. 2, Rock Falls, Ill., formerly of this city.

- By direction of the president, the award of the Silver Star was made to Thomas F. BOYD, for gallantry in action on 24 April, in the city of Burgau, Germany. When the patrol of which he was as member was ambushed, by the enemy, T4 BOYD remaining fully exposed to small arms fire and hand grenades, distracted the enemy’s attention from the other members of the patrol until they were in position to withstand the attack. Still under heavy fire, he and his patrol leader defused two 500 lbs. bombs which were prepared to blow the bridge. By his courageous action T4 BOYD saved the patrol from many casualties and failure in it’s mission. His action was an inspiration to the men, resulted in the capture of the bridge, and opened a route vital to the advance of friendly elements. Thomas Frank BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin BOYD, entered the service June 17, 1941. He had his basic training in Louisiana. Soon after he was sent to Kentucky for training as a radio operator, and on to Texas for further training. He arrived in England and soon after in France, and on into Germany where the award was presented. Frank is with the 92nd "Charley" Division at the present time.

- Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr.’s of Italy story of his trip through Egypt and Palestine is continued.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Cecil ELLIOTT and daughter, Melinda, Mr. and Mrs. John BLANKENSHIP, Mrs. Pearl HUDSPETH and Mrs. Mae SIMCOX, all of Patoka, and Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN and sons, Billy and Larry, ate Sunday dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD and celebrated 3 birthdays which were in August. Those celebrating were Cecil ELLIOTT, Lillie BLANKENSHIP, and Chas. ARNOLD.

- Meacham: The C.B. Circle honored Mr. and Mrs. Carl CRAIN with a nuptial shower. They are living in McLeansboro, Ill. where Carl has employment with the oil company. A list of those attending was included.

- Wilson School: PFC Alva STOCK visited last Thursday with the KLEISS family.

- Wilson School: Veda MEYER returned from Salem Hospital where she submitted to an appendectomy.

- Swift School: Helen ROBB was taken to the Effingham Hospital last Tuesday. She is reported much better this week.

- Swift School: Pvt. and Mrs. Eugene COSBY of South Bend, Ind. are spending the weekend with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy ARNOLD.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Elsworth HARVEY and Mr. and Mrs. Pid HARVEY of Ridgefarm spent Thursday with Mack ROBB and wife. They were returning from St. Louis where they attended the funeral of Darrell CONANT.

- Swift School: Donna Mae GARRETT spent Sunday with Merle JONES and family.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Carl DUNLAP and daughter, and Mrs. Icy GARRETT of Kinmundy, and Mr. and Mrs. Orie ATKINS were callers of Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN Sunday afternoon.

- In Memoriam of my husband who died Aug. 11, 1944. Mrs. Luther DAVIS.

Aug. 23, 1945:

- PFC Ervin H. SCHNEIDER is spending a thirty day furlough here with his wife and children and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Herman SCHNEIDER and family. PFC SCHNEIDER has been in France and Germany for the past year. He wears 3 battle stars and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. After his furlough he will report at Camp Grant and from there he will go to Oklahoma. PFC SCHNEIDER says he will take the good old U.S.A.

- Word has been received here by Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe OLDEN that their son, PFC Royal Bruce OLDEN was appointed honorary guard for a parade review held in Reding, Germany, in honor of General Patton. PFC OLDEN is with the 83rd Division.

- J.H. DISS moved the household effects of Mr. and Mrs. R.C. GARNER to Adel, Iowa, Monday. The family left the same day for their new home.

- Mr. and Mrs. Clyde MULVANEY, residing on the PRUETT farm southeast of town, have twins born Sunday in their home. The boy weighed 7 lbs. and the girl 6 lbs. A suitable name has not been found as yet. This makes 5 children for this couple, 3 boys and 2 girls.

- Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS of Rock Falls, former residents of Kinmundy, have received word from their son, Sgt. Pearl E. BASS, telling them he has been suffering with a broken leg. He was injured by a falling coconut tree. Another son of theirs, Everett D., is home after serving 22 months in the E.T.O. He served in Normandy, Northern France, Germany and Central Europe. He is authorized to wear 5 bronze campaign stars. He will report Sept. 7 at Camp Grant for reassignment.

- Assembly Area Command, France - Among the "early American settlers" in this area are members of a general hospital unit which operated in France from March 1944 until June, when they were ordered to prepare for direct shipment to the Pacific. Now stationed at Philadelphia, one of the 18 redeployment camps in the Assembly Area Command, near Reims France, the unit of which Cpl. Cecil F. JONES, R.R. 3, Kinmundy, Ill., is a member has seen the mammoth redeployment center arise from the dusty plains and wrecked buildings of what was once a French Army encampment. Activated in Oct. 1944, at Camp Ellis, Ill., the unit reached France in Jan. 1945. Early in March it proceeded to this area, where it was remodeled and repaired a schoolhouse before opening a 600 bed hospital. Three months later, the unit was ordered to the Pacific via Camp Philadelphia.

- Former residents of Kinmundy and vicinity, who are now residing in or near Lansing, Mich. held a picnic at Fitzgerald Park in Grand Ledge on Aug. 19.

- Dwight GARNER, Water Tender First Class, arrived here Thursday after receiving his discharge from the U.S. Navy on Tuesday previous. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ruben GARNER. Dwight entered the Navy on July 8, 1940, and after completing his boot training at Great Lakes, he was assigned to the USS Brazo and later to the USS Dorsey. His last ship was the USS Prickett. On Sept. 29, 1941, while on this ship, he was scalded from steam from a safety valve, severally burning both lower legs and left hand. After spending some time in the hospital in Honolulu, he was sent back to the states on Feb. 5. He was permitted to spend a 30 day leave here with his parents last February. After his leave had expired, he reported back to duty at Farragut, Idaho, and was then sent to Crane, Ind. where he has been since. He wears the 4 years Good Conduct Ribbon, the Philippine Ribbon, American Theater, and National Defense with 1 star, representing Pearl Harbor, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Midway, Coral Sea and the Philippines. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- The following article with a picture of these men appeared in Sunday’s Decatur Herald. "A Swiss army officer talks to PFC Fred J. NIRIDER of 701 W. Prairie Ave. and Sgt. Forrest B. HUDSON of Kansas City, Mo., as they view the scenery half way up the Swiss Alps. The Americans were among veterans of the European war on an organized tour of Switzerland. Private NIRIDER is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert M. NIRIDER and prior to entering service, attended Purdue University." Fred John is a former Kinmundy boy, well known and with many friends here. His brother, Merle, is serving with the Marines and is now stationed in Honolulu.

- With the 12th Air Force in Italy, Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., Decatur, Ill., son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr. of Alma, Ill., is now on duty as Executive Officer with the 332nd Air Service Group a unit of the Twelfth Air Force, servicing Air Corps personnel in the vicinity of Florence, Italy. Colonel BROOM has gained an enviable reputation with the 12th Air Force servicing allied war planes throughout the Mediterrian campaign, and servicing Air Corps personnel in the Florence area. During his 27 months overseas, he has been awarded 5 bronze stars for services rendered in Naples Foggia, Rome-Arne, Southern France, North Appenines and German Campaigns. He also wears the American Theater Ribbon. He is a graduate of the University of Ill. and was a member of the following fraternities: The Pharnax, Alpha Tau Sigma, and Pershing Rifles, graduating with the class of 1932. Col. BROOM’s wife, Mrs. Wilma H. BROOM, and 2 children, John A. BROOM, III, and Robert Dale BROOM, are now residing in Decatur, Ill. Col. BROOM was commissioned a 2nd Lieut. in the Infantry Reserves, 8 Sept. 1932, and entered active duty with the Air Corps on 10 Nov. 1940, being promoted to Lt. Colonel on 17 Nov. 1944. Prior to his military service, he was associated with the Fruehauf Trailer Co., Detroit, Mich., in the sales dept. Colonel has 2 brothers now serving in the Armed Forces, Lt. Charles M. BROOM, United States Naval Reserve, Baltimore Shipyards, Baltimore, Md.; Ensign Ernest V. BROOM, U.S. Naval Reserve, now serving with a sub-chaser somewhere in the Southwest Pacific; S. Sgt. Dale R. BROOM, was recently discharged after serving with the Air Corps in the India-Burma Theater.

- PFC Donna ARNOLD, of Calif., is enjoying a furlough with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ora ARNOLD, of the Arnold Chapel neighborhood.

- John Edward THREEWIT, son of John and Jane STANSBURY THREEWIT, was born in Meacham twp., June 17, 1868. Here he grew to manhood and received his schooling in the rural school. In 1890, he married Miss Emma MELTON, who preceded him in death. They had several sons and daughters. Those surviving are: Ivan and Russell of Colorado; 1 son, Ray, paid the supreme sacrifice in World War I. The daughters are: Goldie CROCKETT of Oklahoma; Ruby SKINNER of Calif., and May CLESTER of Chicago. He leaves 3 sisters, Mrs. Matilda ROBINSON, of Oklahoma; Mrs. Herbert BLAIR and Mrs. Adalia HARPER of Centralia. These with a number of nieces and nephews and Miss Opal JAMISON, for whom he has made his home for 13 years, mourn the loss. Mr. THREEWIT suffered a stroke Aug. 10 without regaining consciousness, and died Aug. 10. Services were conducted from the home with interment in Phillips Cemetery.

- The BROWN family held their annual reunion Sunday at Bryan Memorial Park in Salem with 35 members of the family present. A delicious picnic dinner was served at noon, and singing of old songs enjoyed. Attending from here were: Mr. and Mrs. Harve BRANSON, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. BAGOTT, Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER, and granddaughter, Barbara Kay.

- Lt. Charles E. PRUETT, of the U.S. Navy, arrived here Saturday to spend a 15 day leave with his mother, Mrs. Estella PRUETT, after spending the past 2 years in the Southwest and Central Pacific. Charles graduated from the St. Louis University of Medicine in June 1942, and immediately entered the Navy with a rank of Lieut. (jr. grade). His last trip home was in Sept. 1943, just before he shipped on the USS Porterville. After boarding his ship, he was soon advanced to the rank of Lieut. Lt. PRUETT has seen a good deal of action. He wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 11 stars and the Philippine Ribbon with 2 stars. After his leave has expired, he will report for duty at the Naval Hospital, San Diego, Calif. Charles has a brother, Frederic, who is a flight officer in the Army Air Corps and is now stationed at Great Falls, Mont.

- Swift School: Pvt. Eugene W. COSBY left Saturday for Chanute Field at Rantoul, Ill. after spending a week with his wife, Helen and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom HELPINGSTINE and family. Helen is remaining a few weeks longer.

- Swift School: Mrs. O.E. GARRETT, Mrs. R.H. GREEN, Mrs. Claude HANNA, and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB helped Mrs. Mack ROBB cook for threshers Monday.

- Swift School: Mrs. Virgil LIVESAY and son, Darrell, visited one day last week with her sister, Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and family.

- Prairie Grove (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Ernie HANBAUM received word that their son, Kenneth, had landed in the States and would soon be home. He is in the Navy and this is his first leave in 2 years.

- Ben MILLICAN has been employed to teach Omega School the coming term.

- Prairie School: Mrs. Jana EVANS and son, Ford, of St. Peter, spent the weekend with her brother, Mr. and Mrs. Bert FORD and son, Carroll.

- PFC Fred BOYD returned to his army duties Saturday after spending his furlough here with his family.

- PFC Mark ARNOLD, MP, arrived Tuesday night for a 3 day pass with his family.

- Mrs. Glenn JOHNSON was rushed to Vandalia Hospital Tuesday and operated on for appendicitis.

Aug. 30, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from PFC Grover VETETO, who is, or was still in Naples, Italy, on Aug. 17, when this letter was written. He says: Thought I would try and write you a few lines to let you know that I haven’t forgot you folks back home. How is everyone? Fine, I hope. This leaves me in the best of health and able to work every day. Well, here it is VJ-Day and I’m still working! Sometimes we over here wonder if we will ever get to where we can enjoy life like the ones back in the States. The war is over, as you know, and we are wondering when we are going to get back to our loved ones. Sometimes I wonder if we ever will. We don’t think that it is right for the War Dept. to discharge the boys that are in the States and let us stay over here in the Army of Occupation, that is the ones that have never been overseas. I say, if there is a man back in the States that has been overseas as much as one month, let him out of the Army. But I don’t think that it is doing us boys right to let the boys out of the army that have never been over here. And that is what they are talking about doing. I think that they should be the ones to come over here and take our place. They know that they will get to come back home some day and it wasn’t that way when we came over. We never knew if we would get to see our loved ones again and they won’t have that fear that a lot of us had that have been in combat and got shot up. They could come back home in the same shape that they came over here with. I don’t know why I am writing this but I thought I would let you know how they treat us over here. You will see for yourself that us boys that are here are not going to be the ones that is going to do the talking about what went on over here; it is going to be the hero that has spent all of his life in the army back in the States. I’m not saying anything about the ones that were never in the army; if they were lucky enough to stay out of the army, I’m for them. But I will say this if anyone got in the army and has taken his training, let him come over here and get a little taste of what we got over here, if he has never been overseas. I know that there are enough men back in the States that are in the Army that have never been overseas to take the place of most of us over here. And I’m not the only one that thinks that if they let the ones out of the army that never have been overseas first there will be a little war back in the States when all of the veterans get home. Well, I hope you see the way we do but the most of the people back in the States as the war is over will forget that we are still over here. You might think that I’m just wanting out of the Army. Well, I am, and I think that if any man has a family and wants to stay in the army, needs his head worked on and I don’t mean maybe. If a man that is single wants to stay in the army that is not so bad, but I say let them that has got a family and all that has not got a family and wants out, let them out. We lived before the war and you know that there is not going to be as many men in the states as there was before the war. So I think that we could get by without asking the army for much. Just because we are in the army don’t mean that they got to look after us all our life. Well, I think I’ve said enough so will say good luck to one and all and I hope to see all soon. So the best of luck to all and may God bless you.

- Here’s one from S. Sgt. James ELLIS, who has seen overseas duty but is now stationed in Texas. He expects to be out soon and says: Sometime during the month of Sept., you will have the pleasure of addressing me as Mr. when I call upon you to pay the $1.50 I owe for the paper as I want to continue it as a civilian. I can well remember the days in England when everyone said, "Just get back to the States, you’ll be the first one out." Well, even with my 112 points, it took V-J Day to do it, and only when the Army did it wholesale - everyone over 84 points. So you see boys Overseas, you got 20 percent extra for sweating it out with me, and you may still be in Kinmundy before I am. To be a little serious while I was home on furlough I was consistently asked 2 questions I will attempt to answer tonight. The First - What was my worst day of combat, or the toughest day of all overseas? The second - What do I think of a peace time draft? In regards to the first - My roughest day of combat. Four members of our crew and myself had just reported back to our barracks off a 48 hour pass which we had spent in London. We all had plenty of mail in our sacks, I believe that I had 15 letters in all; three of which I especially remember because they all bore the same date, and upon checking with another date, came to mean a great deal to me and one of the mysteries hard to understand if you are not a believer in God. The first letter from my parents in Kinmundy was pretty blue. They had all been sick with a touch of the grippe and had not worked for a few days and everything seems to be upset which made me feel a little bad, but everyone has those things so I dismissed it and picked up the second letter. This was from an Army Nurse. She was writing for me to try and come to France to see my brother, Ed, who was wounded in the hospital and she thought I would be good for his morale. She went on to say - your brother has had a bad shock. His outfit, the 28th Division (nicknamed Keystone) and called the "Bucket of Blood" or "Bloody Bucket" by the Germans because of it’s reputation and it’s shoulder insignia was a red patch resembling a buck somewhat, has had very tough sledding in the Hurtgen Forest and its ranks were sadly depleted. She went on to say that my brother’s entire Battery had been surrounded by the Jerries and they decided to shoot their way out. The fight lasted several hours, but out of the battery, only 5 got back to the American lines, and my brother was one of the five, but he had been wounded. The rest of his battery was either killed or captured. These 5 men were later awarded the Bronze Star, but as my brother later said, he would rather trade it for one of his buddies. Later I found the date of this action identical with my toughest mission. Sorry to say that I was unable to get leave to go see my brother at that time. The third letter was from my wife. She and my little boy were all right, but all during the previous my little boy, who did not know me at all, and thousands of miles away from me, kept consistently asking for his daddy and crying. That night all during the night my wife said she slept in catnaps and would wake up screaming and yelling "Daddy, Daddy, Daddy." She found this hard to explain. He had never done it before and she knew he was not sick. This made me curious and I must admit that this was the letter that started me checking dates. The first thing I thought of was my list of missions. I got it down and sure enough, there it was. LEIPSIG-GERMANY for me was the roughest of them all as well as the crew. Much later we learned that this was the heaviest defended of all areas in Germany against air attack. The triangle area of Merseburg - Madgeburg - Leipsig was about a 75 miles long triangle. IN this was found the German Army proving Ground for new weapons resembling our Abeerdeen, Md. Proving Grounds. In this area was Synthetic Oil Plants and Storage Tanks. V-1 and V-2 Factories were in this area as well as their new Rocket and Jet propelled plane factories. At any place in this area you had 1000 batteries firing at you or 2000 shells everytime the guns fired. You never could fly higher than they could shoot. At 4 p.m. we checked the bulletin board. BROWN’s crew was scheduled for a mission the next day so we ate and went to the movie. It was "A Guy Named Joe". On the way back we stopped by the mess hall for a few slices of bread to take to the barracks. On of the boys had received some cheese from home so we had toast and cheese. By the time we hit the hay it was 10:30 p.m. The green light was still burning which meant there would be a mission. None of us could sleep, kept tossing and turning, several times I sat upright in bed for no reason at all and the boys said I had nightmares and kept them awake. I guess this was as good excuse as any for I noticed that none of them were sleeping either. At 1:10 the door swung open and we all to a man, were setting upright in our beds. Lucky said briefing at 2:30 so we all hopped out of bed, dressed, caught our truck and went to the mess hall for 2 fried eggs, cereal and oranges. I always took my orange with me for on the mission they always froze as hard as a rock and I liked to suck on them coming back over the English Channel. In the briefing room we noticed that we were flying in the Lead Squadron and were flying TAILEND CHARLIE. We didn’t like that for this also had another name, "THE PURPLE HEART CORNER". To top it all off we did not have our own plane. The M.P.’s had finally collected all the passes. The Colonel came in and the door was locked. He raised up the movie curtain and we saw that our target was LEIPZIG. We had heard about it before but this was our first trip there. Our primary bombing was for some underground oil tanks. The secondary was V-2 and Jet Propelled plane factories, and last resort was an Airfield in Germany up the Rhine River. After weather briefing we gunners were excused. We went the Armament shop for our guns. It was pitch dark and we had to be careful how we used our lights. After the guns were installed and checked we helped the Bombardier check his bombs. At the last minute something went wrong with No. 4 engine and we had to change to the spare ship. We had no time to check this thoroughly. We just had 45 minutes to catch the formation at the English Channel which we did. This ship "SHADE RUFF" had a record of 72 missions already and was pretty beat up but was about as good a FLYING FORTRESS as ever hit Germany. It was daylight now and I could see other groups behind. Many of the "HEAVIES" were up this day and we knew that Germany was going to catch H____ this date. We were routed over the front lines where the English were this time to help their morale for they had run into some hard fighting. Flying along at 27,000 feet, nearly 6 miles in the air, we had about another hour until I.P. time which is the beginning time of the bomb run. A report came over the V.H.F. "Bandits in the Air", however, we saw none. Number two oxygen system had gone out over the front lines as 2 bursts of flak came near us and one piece had penetrated the oil line. The Pilot, Navigator and Radio Man were on the Oxygen bottles now. No enemy planes sighted to the I.P. coming onto the I.P. The Co-pilot said that there was a big black cloud ahead. For us not to worry, it was only black smoke from some has been flak. We had a 20 minute run. From the beginning we ran into Box barrage and predicted our tracking flak. The smoke was so thick, I could hardly see our low Squadron. We finally lost the high and low. A large burst just ahead of our number 3 engine tore out our oil line on that engine so the pilot feathered this one. Another large burst right behind the right wing tore a large hole thru the radio room and a piece came thru the side and knocked the waist gunner down. He called me over the phone and said "Ellis, I’m dead." I said, "No, you are not for you can talk to me." He was scared, the piece was about 4 inches long and one-half inch thick. His flak suit saved him. They were tracking us down at 5 o’clock and at 7 o’clock even. They were tracking with one battery that was directly bursting underneath and as I was in the tail I kept telling the pilot to take it up - up - up and up. He was using some evasive action but it was almost impossible to know where to go. It was bursting ahead, over at our sides, underneath, and right behind us. We had no choice but pray and that was what I done for 30 straight minutes. The poor plane was tossed every which way. I had a lot of bruises. We did not hit the primary. The lead wires to the bombs had been severed. The deputy took over. We made a 360 or circle, still in flak all this time and came back over it. This time weaving back and forth. Something happened again. So number three took over and we went on and finally had to drop on the Airfield at Halberstadt. WE HAD BEEN IN EXTENSIVE FLAK FOR 42 STRAIGHT MINUTES. The record for the Eighth Air Force is 44. Out of the flak area we took Inventory. Every plane had one or more engines feather. Some had big gaping holes in their sides. Part of the wings, tails, and nose were shot clear away. My right tail stabilizer not three feet from me had a big hole large enough for a baseball to fly thru. In my window two had just missed my head about the size of a quarter. I was carrying my mother’s Bible, which I did on every mission. A piece of flak had ripped up the right sleeve of the Navigator’s arm. Another large piece had cut clear away the whole right sole of the co-pilot’s heated shoe and overshoe, had it been 3 inches higher, he would have no foot today. The Engineer had the dome of his turret blown off but he miraculously escaped injury. We were lucky that we were not hit by fighters on the way back or none of us would be here today. When we finally landed at our home base we had the least holes of all 28. The average amount was 218 and one had 432 holes. They all came back which speaks a lot for the B-17. Our colonel said by the law of averages, we all should have been down in Germany. We had for that one mission, all the planes to repair - 15 dead men and 25 more wounded. My best buddy - a tail gunner - in the plane next to ours was killed. Flak had severed his jugular vein. Before they could get to him, he was dead. I am happy to say that I got to drop bombs 3 times as a toggler. The last time on my last mission, Feb. 22, 1945. At briefing that day, we were told that this date was the beginning of the battle of Germany and we should do extra good today. 4,000 planes were out. We had to knock out a crossing where 3 railroads came together. The town was LUDWIGLUST Germany. Pictures showed we got it 100%. To any boy in Germany, who will send me a picture of that railroad crossing at LUDWIGLUST, I will give one dollar. I want a ground picture. I have an air picture. Now to answer the second question. It is my belief that we should be prepared but I say do it in the following manner. During your high school term, one night a week should be spent with the National Guard studying Basic, etc. After you are graduated from high school during that 3 month summer vacation, you should be sent to maneuvers some place and at that conclusion your training is finished until such time as the country might have to call upon you. Before I would ever vote for such an outright draft for my son, I would want the following changes to the Army: - We preach democracy, make our army one. Promotions straight up the line from the ranks, never stopping at Warrant Officers. - Stop the antagonizing policy of saluting or bringing down so that everybody salutes everyone else. Do away with the cast system. - The Articles of War are compulsory for men where punishment is concerned. Must be read every 6 months. Make the ones that help the G.I. Compulsory to be read also. - Place court martial representation on a 50-50 basis. One half enlisted men and the other half Officer on a General Court Martial. The Enlisted Man should have his own enlisted lawyer. - When the work day is done, Ranks should be equal as far as sociability is concerned. I highly advise a service club where EM and Officers can mingle if they so desire. I find that many officers resent this barrier as much as the enlisted men. - M.P.’s should be 30 years of age and over at all times. The petty things enforced upon M.P.’s by certain Provost Marshalls such as hauling a man in for a shirt sleeve unbuttoned, etc., and fined $25, or a week’s restriction should definitely be done away with and the Provost who suggested it be made to suffer this punishment. - Inspection Officers who visit overseas units from the Inspector General’s department should come right into the barracks and find out what is going on. To many outfits have been abused because certain officers thought they were Almighty God. The men were left high and dry with Court Martial staring them in the face if they wrote to their Congressman or the President about certain conditions. That is why I say that the Enlisted Lawyer, who is looking out for the welfare of the men of his battalion, should make a monthly report restricted direct to the Commanding General of his outfit, and not THRU CHANNELS. Regards to the fellows and Boys. I never was court martialed but I saw a lot of things that should have been changed. Lucky we all did as good as we did.

- Guam, Aug. 16 - Virgil Guy BURKETT, 22, machinist’s mate, second class, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank BURKETT, Kinmundy, Ill., serves aboard the USS Walker, one of a 133-warship armada which helped to force the surrender of Japan. Arriving on Japanese shores at a time when the enemy homeland already was reeling under devastating carrier-plane blows, this destroyer not only participated in the show down scene, as a screening unit for successive air attacks but pumped it’s own main-battery shells into Jap targets. The crew had witnessed the tide of battle recede from Tarawa to the Japanese mainland - reminding the Japs to "Remember Pearl Harbor". Tokyo’s promises a watery grave all destroyers that approached her shores, human torpedoes, baka bombs, Kamikaze pilots, and invulnerable defenses failed to materialize. The Walker operated within 2 miles of Japan unopposed. Her battle record includes the operations at Taraw, Wotie, Hollandia, Saipan, Tinian, Guam Leyte, Okinawa, and Kyushu.

- Lt. Walter B. PRUETT arrived here Sunday morning where he will spend a 30 day leave with his family and parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT. This was quite a surprise to his family as they knew nothing about his being back in the States. Lt. PRUETT entered the army as Chaplain on Nov. 11, 1944, and was commissioned a First Lieut. He shipped overseas March 5, 1944, on the British Ship Queen Elizabeth, landing in Scotland. From there he went to France and then into Belgium. He was then returned to France and assigned to duty at Etampes. He left Etampes on Aug. 5 and went to Marseilles. There he went aboard ship on the 11th, heading for the Pacific Theater via the Panama Canal. But on the 15th, they received different orders and changed their course, heading for the U.S., landing at Hampton Roads on Aug. 21. From there, he was sent to Fort Sheridan and then home. Although Lt. PRUETT spent only a few months in France, he can tell of some interesting things, especially about Paris. He made several trips to this city and says that it is nearly more intact than any other European City. He wears the European Theater of Operation ribbons. After his leave has expired, he will report back to Fort Sheridan, and unless his orders are changed in the meantime, will report for duty at Camp Beals.

- Cpl. Florence DOOLEN Receives Discharge: Cpl. Florence DOOLEN, daughter of Mrs. Effie ROBB, arrived home Saturday after making a flying trip home from Italy where she had spent the past 22 months, there and in Africa with the Allied Force Headquarters, doing clerical and secretarial work. Cpl. DOOLEN held the distinction of being the first lady from Marion County to enlist in the Women’s Army Corps. She entered the service August 20, 1942, and after training at various places, shipped overseas October 28, 1943, landing in Algiers, Africa. On July 1, 1944, she went to Italy where she was stationed at Caserta until she started home on August 17th via plane. From Italy, they flew to Casa Blanca, where they remained for two nights. And after 26 hours in the air, arrived in New York. From there, she was handed her discharge papers, August 24, having 56 points to her credit. She wears the European -African Campaign Ribbon with one star, representing the Rome-Arno Campaign, the WAAC Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Meritorious Service Award. Upon her arrival here, she found a family reunion awaiting her. Her sister, Mrs. Martha EDMOND and children, of Great Bend, Kans. and her brother, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest DOOLEN and children, of South Bend, Ind., happened to be here visiting the mother and other two sisters, Mrs. Claude HANNA and Mrs. Charles LOWE. This was the first time in seventeen years all the children had been together. It was, indeed, a happy reunion. As to her future, Florence says she wants to do some loafing and get acquainted with her friends before she settles down again. She told us she did not want her picture but we are giving you a picture of her before she entered the service. However, she says that she gained 10 lbs. during her trip abroad. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Dale R. BROOM, son of Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr., Alma, and Elizabeth PAPP, daughter of Mrs. John PAPP, Akron, Ohio, were married Aug. 25 at the home of the Presbyterian minister in Barberton, Ohio. They will reside in Salem. The groom is a graduate of Salem H.S. with the class of ‘36. He was recently discharged from the army after serving 34 months overseas in the CBI Theater of War. The bride is a graduate of Kenmore H.S. She has been employed as a secretary in the Tire Sales Division of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., Akron, Ohio.

- Mrs. Emma CRAIG of the Shriver neighborhood enjoyed a birthday card shower from her friends this week on her 85th birthday. Mrs. A.S. WHISNANT of this city, entertained at dinner Sunday her children a few friends honoring her 82nd birthday.

- "The Bronze Star Medal is awarded to Capt. Roy G. DOOLEN, Cavalry, 102nd Cav. group mecz, United States Army for meritorious achievement in connection with military operations from 13 June 1944 to 8 May 1945 in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. As assistant S-2 and Liaison Officer, Capt. DOOLEN (then 1st Lieut.) Showed great devotion to duty, diligence and thorough application in all assignments. His voluntary undertaking and efficient performance of duties far in excess of those required of him assisted materially in the combat operations of his unit. Capt. DOOLEN’s achievement deserve unqualified praise." Capt. DOOLEN entered military service from Illinois, Jan. 13, 1942, has been overseas since Nov. 4, 1943. His wife, Lela M. DOOLEN who resides near Alma, just received the word that this award was made Aug. 13, 1945 at Dobrany, Czechoslovakia.

- Henry JACKSON died in Centralia Tuesday, aged 87 years, 5 months, and 27 days. Services are being held this afternoon from the Methodist Church with interment in Sandy Branch Cemetery.

- The White Star Service Station, operated by D.J. ALEXANDER, was robbed at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. Sheriff Homer LEWELLEN was notified immediately and arrived on the scene soon after. The thief gained access to the cash register by breaking one of the plate glass windows in the office. About $40 in cash, checks and possibly some tire ration certificates were taken. Three suspects were released.

- Camp Wolters, Texas - Pvt. Clayton Shelly GENTRY, 18, son of Shelly W. GENTRY of Kinmundy, has arrived at this Infantry Replacement Training Center to begin his basic training as an Infantryman. He has been assigned to a battalion stressing rifle.

- Meacham: Mrs. F.S. HARRIS called on Mrs. Edwin HARRELL Wednesday afternoon.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL called on Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS Sunday afternoon.

- Pvt. Tommie THOMS visited his children Billie and Carol in the home of their grandmother, Mrs. Lillie McCULLEY. Tommie has just returned from 3 years in the Southwest Pacific.

- Brown: Francis RITTER, who is stationed in Texas is spending leave with his family and parents.

- Brown: Lee HAMMOND and wife have a new baby born Friday.

- Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BECHTELHEIMER and family of Waterloo, Iowa spent the weekend with Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and other relatives.

- Omega: Ralph WHITE arrived home from Germany last week. He has been discharged from the Army.

- T5 Carl MILLICAN is home from Italy for a 30 day furlough.

- T5 Glen SCHOOLEY arrived home from Germany for a 30 day furlough.

- T5 Harold KNAPP and Mrs. KNAPP of Salem spent last Tuesday visiting Sgt. and Mrs. Beryl DISS.

- Mrs. Dan ARNOLD and Ruby are spending the week in Springfield with Miss Pearle ARNOLD, while Miss Ruby is on a vacation from her telephone duties.

- Mrs. J.L. DAVIS returned to her home in Chicago today after spending a few days here with relatives and attending the HOLT family reunion.

Sept. 6, 1945:

- Major and Mrs. John Robert ROBB and 2 children, arrived here Friday night to spend a few days with relatives. Major ROBB graduated from the University of Illinois in June 1933, and was given a commission as 2nd Lieut. in the Reserve Army. He immediately accepted a position as accountant with the CCC. He was called into active service in Sept. 1940, and promoted to First Lieut. On Aug. 12, 1942, he was promoted to Captain. He shipped overseas Dec. 29, 1943, landing in India. He flew over the ‘hump’ into China Apr. 24, 1944. On Sept. 5, 1944, he was promoted to the rank of Major. While in China he served as Liaison Officer in the Chinese Artillery. He left China July 27, 1945, and landed in Miami, Fla. Aug. 7. And then home to his family in Chicago. After a 30 day leave has expired, he will report for duty at Fort Bragg, N.C. Besides his wife, he has 2 children, John Robert Jr. 5, and Jo Ellen 3. He wears the Bronze Star Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with one star representing the Battle of China. Major ROBB is the eldest son of the late John and Lois NELMS ROBB. He has one brother, PFC Howard, now serving with the army in the Southwest Pacific. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mrs. H.F. GRAY returned home Tuesday from Chicago where she had been visiting her husband, who is a patient in the Illinois Central Hospital. Harry underwent an eye operation for glaucoma 10 days ago and is doing as well as can be expected.

- Ethyl KASSINGER MOSES, born at Popular Bluff, Mo., March 8, 1897, the oldest of children to the late LeRoy and Ruth KASSINGER, died on Sept. 1, 1945 at the Salem Hospital. She was married April 16, 1915 to Clarence WALTON, and they had 2 children: Georgie and Iona. Her husband and Georgie preceded her in death in 1918. On Oct. 19, 1925, she married Louis MOSES, and they had 4 children: Arlene, Mary LaDean, Lindell and Darlene, all at home. She was united with the Baptist Church at an early age. She leaves her husband, Louis MOSES; 5 children: Iona, Arlene, Mary LaDean, Lindell and Darline; 1 grandchild, Jolene VERNACI; one son-in-law, Joe VERNACI; 1 brother, Charley KASSINGER of Wynne, Ark.; 2 sisters, Gladys MOSES and Phyllis BAILEY of St. Louis; 1 half-brother, and sister, Jesse KASSINGER, of Pelly, Texas; Della HOPKINS of Fair Dealing, Mo. Services were held from the Methodist Church in Kinmundy with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Miss Ruby ARNOLD and mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD returned Saturday from a vacation in Springfield with Miss Pearl ARNOLD.

- We have received a note and some newspaper clippings from Mr. and Mrs. William CHEADLE, of Richland, Wash., stating that they had a hand in making the great atomic bombs. They didn’t say just what part because according to the clippings none of the workers knew anything about it. They merely call the work a ‘project’ and let it go at that. We know that Mr. and Mrs. CHEADLE are feeling mighty proud that they had a part in the making of this weapon that finally paved the way to peace with the Japs.

- Pvt. Joe A. BRIMBERRY arrived here Sunday morning to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife and children and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur BRIMBERRY. Joe entered the Army May 15, 1944, landing at Naples, Italy on Dec. 23. He remained in Italy during his sojourn abroad. He started homeward Aug. 18, and landed in New York Aug. 29. Pvt. BRIMBERRY wears the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Mediterranean Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the Battles of the Appinines and Po Valley. After his furlough has expired, he will be sent to Camp Polk, La. Pvt. and Mrs. BRIMBERRY have 2 children, Mary 5, and Everett, 4.

- Sgt. Harold ROBB and Pvt. Lyle CONANT arrived home Tuesday night to spend 30 days here with homefolks.

- Henry, son of Albert and Louise PHELPS JACKSON, was born in Pope twp., near Patoka, on March 1, 1858, and died Aug. 28, 1945. He was the last of a family of 5 children. On Aug. 26, 1880 he married Harriett MORRIS, and they resided on a farm northwest of Kinmundy. They had 9 children, 3 whom died in infancy and Mrs. Cora BRASEL, in 1937. After the death of his wife in 1926, he made his home with his son, Clifford and family, who have cared for him thru many years of affliction. He was a member of the M.E. Church at Arnold Chapel, and of the Masonic Lodge of Kinmundy. Surviving are 5 children: Mrs. Effie ROBB, Mrs. Nettie GRAY, Clifford JACKSON, and Mrs. Pearl HANNA, of Kinmundy; and Floyd JACKSON of Flint, Mich; 11 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. Services were held from the Methodist Church with interment in Sandy Branch Cemetery.

- Mr. and Mrs. Laurel YATES have a baby girl born last Friday in Salem Hospital, named Sharon Lee.

- Mr. and Mrs. Relza SULLENS of Alma have a baby boy born in Salem Hospital and named Michael LEE.

- Mr. and Mrs. Frank ZINSER have a baby boy born Sept. 1 in the Salem Hospital named Ronnie Lynn. Mrs. ZINSER is the former Christine TROUT, and the daddy is in the Navy in the Pacific.

- Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield spent the Labor Day vacation here with her mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD.

- PFC Ervin H. SCHNEIDER is spending a 30 day furlough here with his wife and children and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Herman SCHNEIDER. He recently returned home from Germany and France wearing the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 battle stars. He says he is sure going to hate to leave home again so soon after spending the year abroad. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Archie PATHEL and son, PFC Earl, of Crete, Ill., arrived here yesterday morning to spend a few days with Mrs. PATHEL’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harve BRANSON. PFC PATHEL has just recently returned from overseas. Earl entered the Army on March 17, 1943, and shipped overseas May 12, 1944, landing in England. From there he went into France, Belgium, Holland and Germany. He started for home on Aug. 17, landing in New York on the 21st, and arriving at the home of his parents on Aug. 25th. After spending his 30 day furlough, he will be sent to Ft. Jackson, N.C. PFC PATHEL wears Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 5 stars, representing the battle of Normandy, Northern France, Ardenes, Rhineland, and Central Europe. He was attached to the 30th Infantry Division as an M.P. He has 1 brother, Eugene PATHEL, SKD3c, who is serving on the USS Otis in the Southwest Pacific.

- S. Sgt. Sterling SULLIVAN, son of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. SULLIVAN, residing on the Ella NEWELL farm southeast of this city, arrived home Friday night wearing his discharge pin. Sgt. SULLIVAN entered the army on Nov. 24, 1941, and shipped overseas Oct. 7, 1942, landing in Egypt. From there he went to Tunisa, then to Sicily, then Italy, then Corsica, then France, and then back to Italy where he remained until Aug. 13, 1945, when he started for home. He was a member of the 12th Air Force, serving as a member of the Ground Crew. He reached New Port News on Aug. 24, and after processing was sent on to Ft. Sheridan where he received his discharge papers; having a total of 127 points. Sgt. SULLIVAN wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, The Presidential Citation with Oak Leaf Cluster, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 Silver Stars representing 10 campaigns, and 5 service stripes. Upon inquiring as to his future, Sterling says he is just like the rest of the boys getting their discharge papers. He is going to do a little loafing now for awhile.

- Here’s a nice letter from Pvt. George MEYER, who is still hanging around in Germany. He says: Will again try to write you a short letter. Don’t know what I will write that might be news to you except that my address has changed again. How long I will keep the present one I do not know. Seems as though I am on the transfer list quite often, but never on the one that would start me on my way home. Am still putting in time here in Germany. I did have hopes of being home son but they were shattered with this last transfer. Now it will be nothing short of a blessing from God if I make it home by next spring the way things look. How is everything coming along around the old hometown? I don’t know but it looks like the crops over here that I have seen are pretty good. The only thing is that it seems as though each family has only a very small area of any crop. The majority of the fields don’t look to be much more in size than my dad’s potato patch. That isn’t much of a field. I see by your paper that there are some of the boys getting home. Oh! Happy day when we can all get back. I received the most of June and 3 of the July issues, the last of which, were only 3 weeks old. That is good for a newspaper. Now I will miss several again, I suppose, all due to my change in address. Must close now. Hope it won’t be too long until I can talk to you instead of writing.

- Shriver: Shriver School opened Monday with Mrs. Anna MARLOW as teacher.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Cpl. Austin BEARD, who has been overseas for several months, arrived here Wednesday at the Fred MULVANEY home for a 30 day furlough with his wife and 22 month old son, whom he has not seen since he was about 1 month old, and his parents and other relatives.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Cpl. Paul SMITH, who has been overseas the past 6 months, is spending a 30 day furlough with relatives and friends, and his mother near Bee Branch.

- Swift School (from last week): A family reunion was held at the home of Paul SWIFT, Sunday. A list of those attending was included.

- Swift School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Elsworth CHANDLER and children of Weston, Ill. are visiting with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and Donna Mae.

- Swift School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and Mr. and Mrs. Elsworth CHANDLER attended the HOLT Reunion in Kinmundy, Sunday.

- Swift School (from last week): Mrs. Effie ROBB, Florence DOOLEN, and Mr. and Mrs. Claude GARRETT were Sunday callers at the Cleve DOOLEN home.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Merle JOHNSTON and Mr. and Mrs. Hugh COPPLE and daughters attended dinner Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Charlie EHRAT near Vernon, in honor of Billie KLEEMAN who was home on furlough.

- Meacham: Mrs. Lewis MOSES suddenly died Saturday in Salem Hospital.

- Meacham: Ervin SOLDNER was pleasantly surprised Sunday in honor of his birthday and also the birthday of his sister, Mrs. Fred COOK. At noon a basket dinner was enjoyed. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Fred COOK and Geneva, Mr. and Mrs. Dolph SOLDNER, Mr. and Mrs. Dave COLEMANN, Mr. and Mrs. Herman SOLDNER and Billie, and Mr. and Mrs. E.G. DILLON.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. E.G. DILLON called on Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL Sunday afternoon.

- Mangner (from last week): Sergeant Leo PORTER and wife spent a few days last week with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Steve PORTER.

- East Meadow Branch (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and family of Sumner spent Sunday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- East Meadow Branch (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB called to see Fred BOYD Sunday.

- Meadow Branch: School started Monday with Mrs. Lyman MALONE as teacher.

- Brown: Laurel YATES and wife have a baby girl born at Salem Hospital, Sept. 1.

- Brown: Chas. MONICAL and wife and Dean BAKER and family called Sunday at the Roger and Clyde MULVANEY homes to see the new babies.

- Omega: Richard HAMPSTEN is home from Germany on a 30 day furlough.

Sept. 13, 1945:

- Major John R. ROBB, Field Artillery, Army of the United States, is awarded the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service in the performance of outstanding duty during the period of 24 Oct. 1944 to 4 Nov. 1944, military operations against the enemy. Major ROBB by training and personally directed the Artillery of the — Chinese Army in support of 3 attacks on the enemy in Mengbu, China, displayed exceptional leadership, courage and initiative and later in the defense of the Hwaiyuanchen area again displayed outstanding leadership in operations against the enemy. By his outstanding performance of duty, Major ROBB made substantial contribution to the operation of our Chinese ally, causing the enemy considerable damage and delaying the progress of his attacks.

- Pvt. Joe A. BRIMBERRY, who arrived home from Italy Sept. 2, to spend a 30 day furlough with his family. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and children of Sumner, spent Saturday here with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER and Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- George W. READNOUR, oldest child of John S. and Lucy LAMAR READNOUR, was born Feb. 22, 1863 at Georgetown, Ill., and died Sept. 5, 1945. In 1881 he moved to Kinmundy with his parents. He married Mary BAKER who died in 1906. They had 4 children: Omer, who died in 1918 in the service of his country; Hazel who died in 1921; and Earl and Alice who are still living. He is also survived by 1 sister, Mrs. R.S. ROWAN; and 1 grandson, George Melvin KAZEN. Services were held at Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Pvt. Lyle CONANT arrived here the night of Sept. 4, to spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William CONANT and family, residing in the Sandy Branch community. Lyle entered the army Nov. 3, 1942, and shipped overseas July 1, 1943, landing in Scotland. From there he went to England where he was stationed during his entire time spent abroad. He was a member of the Chemical Warfare Div., 92nd Bomb Group. He left England on Aug. 26, on the Queen Elizabeth landing in New York, Aug. 31. He and Harold ROBB were on the same boat coming home but knew nothing about it until they met in the Railway station in Chicago waiting for the train to bring them to Kinmundy. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- T. Sgt. Harold ROBB arrived here the night of Sept. 4, to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife and daughter and parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB, residing west of town. Harold entered the service Aug. 13, 1942, and sailed overseas Nov. 23, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. A few weeks ago, while on duty in Hof, Germany, he came across Russell SHAFFER and Ralph JENKINS. Needless to say it was a happy reunion of these 3 boys. He was sent back to England and on Aug. 26, embarked on the Queen Elizabeth landing in New York, Aug 31st. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe. Sgt. ROBB and Miss Velma Jean CONANT were married on March 10, 1944. They have a daughter, Sharon Faye, 8 months old. Now Harold says he is going to spend his 30 days getting acquainted with his daughter.

- Word has been received from PFC Thomas A. BOONE, that he has been promoted to the rank of Corporal. He is still stationed in New Guinea, where he has been for the past 16 months, and says he is hoping to be home by this time next year.

- Sgt. Delbert HAMMER arrived here Sunday morning to visit a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER and family. Delbert entered the army July 8, 1940 and in Oct. 1941, was sent to the Aleutian Islands where he remained for almost 2 years. In October 1943, he was permitted to spend a 15 day furlough here with his parents. He returned to California, where he has since been stationed. He is enroute to Ft. Sheridan where he will receive his discharge papers within the next few days. Sgt. HAMMER wears the Good Conduct medal, the American Defense and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbons. Sgt. HAMMER and Miss Margaret POLLACK of Chicago were married June 7, 1944. After receiving his discharge papers, this couple will make their home in Chicago.

- Mr. and Mrs. Pete JOINS of Salem have a son named James Richard, born Friday at Salem Hospital. They now have two sons. The mother is the former Pauline VANDEVEER, and since Mr. JOINS has been in the army, she has been making her home here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. D.H. VANDEVEER.

- Mr. and Mrs. Marshall WILLIAMS moved from Wilmington into the Backensto property vacated by the Lewis HAYS family.

- Glenn Pershing CHEADLE, son of Harry and Betty CHEADLE, and grandson of J.R. CHEADLE, has been promoted to the rank of Major. He is Air Supply Officer for the island of Ie Shima. His home is at Kankakee, Ill.

- J.R. CHEADLE received word that his only surviving brother, Dr. Clarence CHEADLE, of Burnsville, S.C., died at his home there at the age of 77 years.

- Mrs. Fred GAMMON spent last week in Clinton, Iowa with her husband, who is a patient in the hospital there.

- Lt. (jg) Virgil I. MARSHALL and wife of Whiting Field, Fla., came Sunday to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL, and will go to Vandalia Wednesday to visit relatives and on to Jacksonville to visit his wife’s parents.

- Mrs. Frank GARRETT and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL assisted Mrs. Wes ROBB with thresher’s dinner Thursday.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. A.D. NICHOLS and daughters, Mrs. Dresdon HEADLEY, and Mrs. Roy DOOLEN, and Mr. and Mrs. John CHANCE from here attended a family reunion at the Pana Park Sunday.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD and daughter, Mrs. Eli GREEN and little sons, Larry and Billie, spent Thursday near Vandalia with Mr. and Mrs. Frank JARRETT.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT, daughter Mrs. Ruth WILLIAMS, and son S. Sgt. James M. BASSETT and wife and little daughter, spent Sunday night in Patoka with Mr. and Mrs. Roy JONES.

- Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and children spent Saturday here visiting Sgt. and Mrs. Harold ROBB and baby.

- Brown: James HANKS returned home Friday morning after a discharge from the U.S. Army.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): School started at Elder with Mrs. Helen MILLICAN as teacher. The Allen School pupils are going to Elder this term also, making an enrollment of 11 pupils.

- Meacham: James TATE, Jr. and Miss Marjorie COURSON were married in Macon, Ill. Sept. 1. They will make their home in Decatur.

- Meacham: School commenced at Booker Monday with Mrs. Nellie WILLIAMS as teacher.

- Wilson School (from last week): Jean FORD spent Sunday with Pauline WALKER.

Sept. 20, 1945:

- S. Sgt. Marvin BASSETT is spending a 30 day furlough with his family in Patoka and with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT of the Zion neighborhood, after spending the past 6 months abroad. Sgt. BASSETT entered the service Jan. 14, 1942, and shipped overseas Feb. 10, 1945 landing in France. From there he went to Germany with an Ordnance Depot Company of the 15th Army. He started for the Southwest Pacific on Aug. 11th, but the course was changed while on high seas and his ship docked at Boston on Aug. 20th. He arrived home on Aug. 27th. After spending his furlough here, he will be sent to Fort Bliss, Texas. Sgt. BASSETT wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with one star, representing the battle of the Rhineland. On May 4, 1944, Sgt. BASSETT and Miss Nellie Fern BELCHER, of Patoka, were married. They now have a 4 months old daughter, Donna Marlene. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Sgt. James GREEN arrived here Monday to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife and daughter and his sister, Mrs. J.H. DISS and family. Sgt. GREEN entered the service March 2, 1942 and shipped overseas Oct. 11, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to Borneville, France, where he was stationed in a hospital. After the patients had been transported back to the States, his unit was billed to go direct to the Southwest Pacific. But with the close of the war with Japan, his unit left France on Sept. 1, and headed for the states, landing in New York Sept. 12. Sgt. GREEN wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon. Sgt. and Mrs. GREEN (nee Anna V. ROHRBOUGH) have a 3 year old daughter, Ruth Ann. After the expiration of his furlough, he will be sent to Camp Siebert, Ala.

- PFC Charles V. VALLOW arrived home Saturday night to spend a 30 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.B. VALLOW and other relatives. PFC Charles entered the service March 12, 1943 and shipped overseas Dec. 1, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, then to Germany, and then back to France where he was stationed with the 341st Engineers. These boys thought they were doomed to be a part of the army of occupation. But fate was with them and they sailed for home on Sept. 10th. And Charles said that when the Statue of Liberty came within sight, there wasn’t a dry eye on that ship. PFC VALLOW wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 1 star, representing the battle of Northern France. After the expiration of his furlough, he will be sent to Camp Clabourne, La. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- PFC Fred GAMMON arrived here Tuesday morning for a 15 day visit with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON. Fred is a patient in the Schick General Hospital, Clinton, Iowa, where he is being treated for sciatica. PFC Fred entered the service Aug. 3, 1943 and shipped overseas June 30, 1944, landing in Italy. From there he went to Southern France and then to Germany with the 7th Army. He sailed for home Aug. 3, landing in New York Aug. 14th. He was then sent to the Schick General Hospital. PFC GAMMON wears the Good Conduct Medal, and the European Theater of Operation Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, and Central European Campaigns. Fred looks mighty good and we know he is glad to be home again, even though it is only on a convalescent furlough. He will have to report back to his hospital as soon as his furlough has expired.

- PFC Chester PERRY arrived here Saturday morning to spend a 30 day furlough with his mother, Mrs. Myrtle PERRY and other relatives. PFC PERRY entered the service Jan. 19, 1944, and shipped overseas Aug. 11, 1944, landing in Scotland. From there he went to England, France, Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg, and Germany. He left Europe Sept. 5th and landed in New York Sept. 10. PFC PERRY wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the battles of France, Ardennes, Germany, and Rhineland. He has 1 brother in the army, PFC Cleo, who is now stationed in China. Another brother, Paul, was recently discharged and now lives in Texas.

- PFC Arthur MUEHLHAUSEN arrived in Alma Monday where he will spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.E. MUEHLHAUSEN. Arthur entered the service Dec. 7, 1942, and shipped overseas Dec. 4, 1943, landing in Oran Africa. From there he went to Italy, where he remained until he headed homeward. He left there Aug. 30, and landed at Boston on Sept. 10. After spending his furlough, he will be stationed at Camp Rutter, Ala. PFC MUEHLHAUSEN wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars, representing the battles of Rome, Arno River, and Po Valley. He was with the 88th Infantry Division.

- Donald Lee, 2 months old son of Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS, residing north of this city, died in the Mark Greer Hospital in Vandalia, Thursday morning. Services were held from the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery. Besides the parents, he leaves a brother, Charles Frederick, a sister, Brenda, and the grandparents, Mrs. Cora WILLIAMS, and Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON.

- Mr. and Mrs. W.E. MORRIS of Marshall, Ill. received a telegram Friday from their son, Edgar. Our readers will remember Edgar was liberated from a Jap camp after being held for 3 years. He stated in his cable that he was quite well and in good spirits.

- Mr. and Mrs. Eli ROBB moved their household goods from Rantoul Saturday and are now domiciled in the Helen MITCHELL property on the Louisville Road, which they recently purchased.

- Pvt. Perry Leonard NEAVILLE arrived here Saturday morning to spend a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Perry NEAVILLE. He has spent the past 16 months in Africa and Italy. Pvt. NEAVILLE entered the service Feb. 5, 1943, and shipped overseas April 13, 1944, landing in Oran Africa. From there he went to Italy where he remained until he sailed for the states on Sept. 1, landing at Hampton Roads on Sept. 10. Pvt. NEAVILLE wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars, representing the battles of the Arno River, Po Valley and Galtic Line. He was a member of a Rifle Co., Co. E., 363rd Infantry, 91st Division. Very little publicity was given to the fighting our boys did in Italy. But here is a copy of a news broadcast by Robert St. John, war correspondent for the National Broadcasting Co., on March 23, 1945. We reproduce it to show our readers that there are several unsung heros, who never received any recognition of their heroic deeds. One morning (on the Italian front) the mist was drifting up from the valleys, forming a strange curtain, which hung over everything! It hid the hills in the background, completely, and it shrouded the valleys, as if with great folds of shimmery gauze!! The men in the American patrol had to squint and strain their eyes to see on the rocky ridge ahead of them, the 3 squat pillboxes in which they knew that a goodly number of enemy soldiers were waiting them. But then, the morning mist was pierced by angry tongues of orange flame, tongues of flame being shot out of those Nazi pillboxes at the American patrol. An American officer barked a command. "Let’s rush them!" At that signal, American hand grenades smacked against the tiny German forts. Soon cries of pain and of fear split the chill morning air. And before long, the boys of that American patrol heard the word, "Kammerad". Then, the enemy soldiers came piling of those pillbox exits and from the dugouts behind them. They raised their hands in the air, and soon were on their way to the rear of the American lines. The patrol (from the 91st Division’s 363rd Infantry, had thoroughly surprised that enemy outpost. But for 9 members of the patrol, the day’s work had only begun. What happened to them is a story which NBC’s Grant Farr has just sent me. It’s a story of 9 weary young Americans who spent one solid day in a situation from which not one of them ever expected to come out alive. In the great sweep of battle, it was just an "incident" - something which never will get into History Books. But as I tell you the story, imagine yourself, as one of them! It started when the commander of that patrol said he wanted 9 good men to occupy those cleaned out dugouts, beyond the cement forts, and to hold them - to hold them until they got orders they could retire! He looked around from someone to take charge and his eyes fell on Staff Sergeant James L. WOOD of Muskegon, Mich. He knew that the Sergeant was the man for the job, and Jimmy WOOD picked some good teammates. Let me read you their names, because they deserve some credit. First there was Technical Sergeant Jim PFAU of Kalamazoo, Mich., and 2 plain Sergeants - Jose GARCIA of Kingsville, Texas, and Dick GARRETTSON of Ocean City, N.J. Next, he picked Private First Class Ralph W. SMITH of Muskogee, Okla., and PFC Perry NEAVILLE of Kinmundy, Ill., and PFC Tom CARLIN of Cleveland, Ohio. The volunteer party was rounded out by Privates Harry P. BOWEN of Fletcher, Okla. and Jimmy BRANCH of Black Mountain, N.C. That makes 9 ordinary Americans from towns scattered all over the United States. Following orders, they took up their positions in the captured dugouts. And then - the mist and fog lifted, and there they were exposed in broad daylight to the vengeance of the enemy, up in the hills. And it wasn’t but a few minutes before the enemy began to let them have it! Shells began to burst all around them. Sergeant Jimmy WOOD told them to keep their heads down and then he began to talk to headquarters over his portable radio. He didn’t just talk to make conversation. He was watching where those shells were coming from and thus directing Allied Artillery and Mortar Fire against the enemy’s positions. He and his 8 companions had the pleasure of seeing a number of those enemy guns put out of commission as a result of that radio reporting! But the situation those 9 men were in was not a pretty one. No life insurance man in his right mind would have considered them very good risks. But in the dugouts they’d found some machine guns which the Germans had left behind in their fight. And because their training had been so good, they knew all about how to operate them. So they set to work and rigged them up and before long had them trained on the enemy positions. After that all 9 of them felt quite a bit better. German shells and bullets continued to come over but at least they were able to talk back! Hours went by. It finally percolated through the heads of the 9 Americans that they were completely cut off from their own forces - that they were alone, that they were isolated there in those dugouts, so close to the Nazi front. And they knew that to try to move would mean certain death! Suddenly there was a noise up ahead in the brush in front of the dugouts. One of the boys shouted that it must be a German Attack, but Sergeant Jimmy WOOD knew what it was all about. He had seen the trick tried before. He explained it to his comrades that it was probably just a German sniper tossing stones into their dugouts, in the hope that some of them would lift their heads to take a look - and when they did - he’s clip them off, and so Sergeant Jimmy yelled out (for anyone to hear who understood English) - "No sir. We’re not biting this time!" More hours dragged by and now, it was almost dusk. Suddenly Sergeant got busy with the radio. When he finished his excited conversation with headquarters, he put the radio down and gathered his 8 men around him. "Listen. We’re going to get out of her afterall. Our own batteries are going to come lay down a red hot barrage all around us. That will keep the Jerries busy. Then our guns will lay off for a moment. (They’ll tell us by radio exactly when they’ll cease firing), and that is when we move. We’ll go 2 at a time and fast, okay? Get it?" They were still talking about the idea when the American guns suddenly began to roar. Shells - American shells - were landing all around them. I went on for quite a while and then - as suddenly as it had all started - the guns became silent. In the brief lull, all 9 of them scampered to safety - back to the American lines. As they rejoined their own unit, they turned and looked back. What they saw made them realize they had gotten out of those dugouts just in time. The Nazis were lobing hundreds of deadly hand grenades into those very holes in the ground in which they had spent the entire day. But now it was too late. They were safe, 9 young Americans from towns scattered all over the country - safe without a scratch after living hours and hours in the very center of No-Man’s Land. (A picture of Perry NEAVILLE accompanied this article)

- Sgt. Noah EAGAN Writes: Haven’t written you for some time. But I have been getting the paper regular and so as I am not much for writing letters and let you go without. But, now if you could spare me a few moments of your time. I would like to drop in your office and see if I couldn’t get the Express for now and my older days. I’ve really enjoyed it while being a soldier. It does for a fellow everything he needs from home, "In news". I have read several different "Hometown Papers" while in the army, but they aren’t put together as the Express. I saw Ray George MILLER and Russell MOUNT last week at the Riveria Rest Center in Nice, France. I was supposed to send our picture, but George hasn’t sent it yet. We had been talking about your paper and thought a picture to you would top off the day. Thanks again for the paper. I’m scheduled to leave for home the 13th so please don’t send me the paper, Norris. This should stop them in time. I’ll get all that are in the mail.

- Mr. and Mrs. Myron DEIWERT of Everett, Wash., who were residents of Kinmundy about 35 years ago, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 1, 1945. Their daughter, Mrs. Stella MARLATT desires their Kinmundy friends to send anniversary greetings.

- T. Sgt. Harold ROBB, who arrived Sept. 4th to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife and daughter, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB, Sgt. ROBB has spent the past 10 months in France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Word has been received here that Cpl. Harold SIMMONS, who is stationed in India, has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

- Pvt. Ray OLDEN arrived home Saturday after receiving his discharge papers the day previous from the Thayer General Hospital, Nashville, Tenn. Needless to say that he is mighty glad to be back in civies again and be home with his wife and children. Pvt. OLDEN entered the service on June 14, 1944 and shipped overseas Jan. 1945, landing in England. From there he went to France and then to Germany. On Feb. 28, near Hambach, Germany, a shrapnel exploded near him, wounding him in the throat, back and left arm. He was brought back to the states, landing in New York on April 28th, and sent to the Thayer General Hospital, where he has since been a patient. Pvt. OLDEN’s wounds are all healed now but they have left him with a stiff elbow which is quite a handicap. He wears the Combat Infantry’s Badge, the Purple Heart, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 1 star, representing the Battle of Germany. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- S. Sgt. Edward HALLER, having accumulated 109 points, was handed his discharge papers on Sept. 11. After spending a few days near Highland with his parents, he came here to visit in he John STOCKER home. But his visit did not last long, and now he is back at his old job with Mr. George CLEMENTZ in the orchard business. Sgt. HALLER entered the service Feb. 10, 1942, and was shipped overseas Sept. 5, 1942, landing in Scotland. From there he went to England where he was stationed with the Heavy Bomb Group of the 8th Air Force. He started home Aug. 26, landing in New York on Aug. 31st. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Presidential Citation and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 6 stars, representing the battles of Ardennes, Normandy, Western Europe, Southern Germany, Northern France, and the Air Offensive of Europe. In all probability, this lad will make the news column again in the near future. Until then, all we can say, welcome home, Eddie.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Miss Marian SIPES accompanied her brother, Woodson and wife, back to East St. Louis last Monday, where she will teach school this winter.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Sgt. Flory REPEC is spending a short furlough with his mother, Mrs. Nellie MAYBERRY, and family.

- Brown: Sgt. Bill MONICAL of Oklahoma spent a few days last week in the Roy WHITNEY home.

- Shriver School (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Carrol SIMMONS attended the funeral of his uncle, John R. DADGETT, at the Osborne Funeral Home in Dix on Thursday.

- Swift School: School has begun with Mrs. Bertha SEE as teacher.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT were callers in Farina last Friday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT were callers in our neighborhood, Sunday.

- Swift School: Mrs. Marvin CONANT entertained Misses Betty CONANT and Marjorie CONANT to a birthday dinner Monday in honor of her daughter, Rosemary.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Elsworth CHANDLER have returned home after a 10 day visit with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT.

- Mrs. Mary SLOVICK received a telephone message last week announcing the death of her son-in-law, Fred KURTZER of Chicago. Burial was made in Chicago.

- Mrs. A.K. GEIBE, who is visiting her husband’s parents in Salem, attended the funeral of her nephew, Donald Lee WILLIAMS, Thursday.

- Brenda, small daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS, was badly bitten by a dog Wednesday. She was treated at Centralia Hospital

Sept. 27, 1945:

- Patoka will entertain the Marion County Farmers’ Institute, Sept. 29.

- Pvt. Retus B. GENTRY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Retus GENTRY, of Kinmundy, has won the right to wear the "Boots and Wings" of the U.S. Army Paratroops. He has completed 4 weeks of jump training during which time he made 5 jumps, the last a tactical jump at night involving a combat problem on landing. Jumping at The Parachute School has steadily developed to a recognized war science. American paratroopers have been recognized throughout the world for their meritorious actions against the enemy. In addition to producing jumpers, Parachute Specialist Training is given to qualified men in communications, Demolition, Riggers and Parachute Maintenance, vital skills for Airborne Troops.

- Here’s a nice letter from T4 Robert BASS, who is now on his way home from France. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS of Rock Falls, Ill., and former residents of this community. He says: Just a few lines this time to say Hello and let you know that I will be on my road home in the near future. So if my subscription runs out, just stop sending the paper. I will try to renew it when I get home. The last paper I received was dated Aug. 23rd and I want you to know, that I have enjoyed your paper very much. I was hoping to see Lt. ATKINS, but of course, he was in Italy. There has been several boys from Kinmundy over here but I wasn’t lucky enough to see them. I was sorry that I missed D.A. ARNOLD and his sister, Lt. Grace. But was sure glad they got home safe. As I understand it, Lt. Grace is in the hospital in Denver, Colo. I hope she gets well soon, and while she is there she should try to visit the Garden of the Gods and Seven Falls. There are a lot of other places there that are very interesting too. These places are at Colorado Springs, Colo., which is about 30 or 40 miles south of Denver. You see, I spent about a year at Camp Carson, which is located about 6 miles south of Colorado Springs. It is about the most beautiful spot I have ever visited. Well, Mr. VALLOW, news is short so I will close for this time. Give my best regards to the old-timers around Kinmundy and I hope to make Kinmundy a visit when I get home. I want to thank you again for the paper. I have enjoyed it very much.

- Sgt. James GREEN, who arrived home Sept. 16 to visit his family after spending the past 11 months in England and France. After the expiration of his 30 day furlough, he will be sent to Camp Siebert, Ala. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. Verchial TROUT received a telegram Tuesday from their son, PFC Elwin, stating that he had landed in San Francisco. Now both father and mother are anxiously awaiting his arrival home.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON are expecting their son, PFC Kenneth, home soon as they received a letter sometime ago stating that he was heading this way. They rather expect him to be in the same convoy with PFC TROUT.

- PFC Fred GAMMON, who is enjoying a convalescent furlough here with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. GAMMON. Fred is a patient in the Schick General Hospital, Clinton, Iowa, being treated for sciatica. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Fort Sheridan, Ill., Sept. 29, 1945 - Staff Sgt. James ELLIS is leaving here today for his home at Kinmundy, Ill. after being honorably discharged from the Army Air Force. Sgt. ELLIS entered the service May 28, 1941, and served 12 months overseas with the 8th Air Force based in England where he was assigned duty as B-17 Flying Fortress as a tail gunner. He completed 30 combat missions, winning the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, ETO ribbon with 4 campaign stars, and the Good Combat Medal. Sgt. ELLIS is the husband of Martha M. ELLIS, of Kingman, Kansas, and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Louie JEZEK of Kinmundy, Ill. Following his return from overseas, Sgt. ELLIS has been stationed at Bryan Army Airfield, Texas, an instrument instructors pilot school of the Army Air Forces Central Flying Training Command. Prior to his entrance into the armed forces, Sgt. ELLIS was a theater manager for Balaban & Katz Theater Corp., Chicago, Ill., and expects to return to his former job.

- PFC Charles JENKINS is enjoying a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert JENKINS near Alma. As soon as his furlough has expired, he will report to Camp Grant for further instruction. PFC JENKINS entered the service Dec. 2, 1942, and sailed overseas in Jan. 1945, landing in France. He was a member of the 13th Airborne Division. He wears the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars representing the battles of Rhineland and Central Europe.

- PFC Kenneth WRIGHT has been spending a 30 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emery WRIGHT, in Alma. He is reporting back for duty to Camp Selby, Miss. Kenneth entered the service Dec. 28, 1942, and sailed overseas Aug. 27, 1943, landing in England. From there he went to France, Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg, and Germany. He was with the 3rd Army, serving with Co. A, 95th Mortar Bn. He landed back in the states on July 6, 1945. PFC WRIGHT wears the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars, representing the battles of Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Germany.

- Notice: The Sandy Branch Cemetery Association will hold the annual meeting at the shed on Sunday, Oct. 7, at 2 o’clock p.m. for the purpose of electing 3 directors for 3 years, and to transact any business that may come before the board of directors. The public is invited to attend.

- Mr. and Mrs. Delbert HAMMER of Chicago are visiting here with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER and family. Delbert recently received his discharge from the army.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. John SHAFFER and family of Davenport, Iowa, have moved to the Katie BASOM farm which they recently purchased.

- Pleasant Grove: Andrew MULVANEY was hit by a passenger train at the railroad crossing in Brubaker Friday morning. His truck was badly damaged but we are glad to know that Mr. MULVANEY was able to return home from the hospital Saturday.

- Pleasant Grove: The Youth’s Meeting was held at Pleasant Grove, Thursday night.

- Pleasant Grove: P.M. ROSE attended the funeral of Freeman EAGAN at Siloam Church Wednesday, also the funeral of Ed KAGY in Salem.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Ralph ROSE and children, and Mr. and Mrs. Everett WEEMS and daughter, and Lewis PHILLIPS were callers at the Pearl ROSE home Thursday. Mr. WEEMS received his discharge from the army and arrived home from overseas, Tuesday.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Claude HIESTAND have received word from their son, Walter, that he expects to start home, Sept. 21.

- East Zion: Mrs. Eli GREEN and sons, Larry and Billy, and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD spent Wednesday with Mrs. A.D. NICHOLS and daughters, Mrs. Lucille HEADLEY and Mrs. Lela Mae DOOLEN, and helped celebrate Larry GREEN’s 2nd birthday. A delicious dinner was served at noon with birthday cake, and a watermelon in the afternoon.

- Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McWILLIAMS and son, Wm., have returned to their home on the farm after spending 2 years in Cicero.

- Swift School: Clyde BASSETT, Guy ARNOLD, and Bill GREEN attended the Fair in Brownstown last Friday.

- Swift School: Carl GREEN, son of Wm. GREEN, arrived home last Thursday to spend a 30 day furlough with home folks.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Sam LOWE and Sammy, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and Judith Ann attended the show in Farina Saturday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and daughters spent Sunday evening with Mr. and Mrs. C.A. HANNA and Wyona.

- Swift School: Most of the community attended the Coon Dog Show in Kinmundy Sunday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and daughters were shopping in Centralia Saturday.

- Swift School: Harold ROBB is visiting his wife, Velma Jean and babe, at the Marvin CONANT home.

- Word has been received from Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE stating that he has been named to another base in New Guinea.

- Mrs. Fannie K. EAGAN is now able to go to the table for her meals after being confined to her bed several months.

- Shriver School: Mrs. Maggie KLINE attended the funeral of Mrs. Merle KLINE’s mother, Mrs. Dora CARTER in Johnston City, Saturday.

- Omega: Word has been received that Earl SEE has been discharged from the Army.

Oct. 4, 1945:

- James W. LECKRONE, 61, recently elected Justice of the Peace on the Republican ticket for Salem, died Sunday at his residence in Salem. He had been ill for the past 4 years. Services were held from the Grace Methodist Church with interment in East Lawn Cemetery. Prior to an accident 4 years ago which invalided him, he was widely known thru his connections with the Porter and Robinson Lumber companies. He was born in Salem on Aug. 31, 1884 and resided there all his life. On June 20, 1911, he married Ethel EASLEY, who survives. His parents, Harvey and Nellie SHIGLEY LECKRONE, preceeded him in death. 1 daughter, 4 sons, a brother, a sister, and 5 grandchildren survive him. His children are: Mrs. Nellie Mae CURRIE of Salem; James E. LECKRONE of Salem; S2 c R. Kenneth LECKRONE of the U.S. Navy, Hammond, Ind.; Cpl. Harvey F. LECKRONE of the U.S. Army Air Corps; and Lt. Richard S. LECKRONE of the U.S. Army. His brother, Earnest P. and his sister, Mrs. Quetta STORMENT, reside in Salem. He was a member of the Grace Methodist Church, and a 25 year member of the Odd Fellows Lodge. Mr. LECKRONE was well known around Kinmundy, having resided on a farm east of this city for a few years, which farm he still owned at the time of his death.

- Joseph SLOVICK, MM2 c (T), arrived home yesterday after receiving his discharge on Sept. 28 at Great Lakes, Ill.

- S. Sgt. Glenn INGRAM arrived here on Sept. 19th to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife, the former Miss Thelma OLDEN, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed INGRAM of Meacham twp. Glenn entered the service on Nov. 2, 1942, and shipped overseas on Oct. 6, 1944, landing in France. From there he went to Germany, Austria and Italy. He sailed for home on Sept. 9th and landed in New York on the 14th. He wears the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Europe and the Rhineland. After his furlough has expired, he will report to Camp Grant for further instructions. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- According to information received here, Mr. and Mrs. Earl MORRIS of Marshall talked via telephone with their son, Edgar, a few days ago. It will be remembered that Edgar was reported missing with the sinking of the Houston by the Japs. Edgar is at present a patient in the Naval Hospital in Albany, N.Y., after being flown there from Calcutta, India. He will have to remain in the hospital for at least 21 days. He told his parents he now weighs 100 lbs., and was in 4 different prison camps during his 3˝ years as a prisoner of the Japs. He says he is in fairly good health. This family is formerly of this community.

- Rev. Lisle E. MEWMAW, pastor of the local Methodist Church for the past 2˝ years, has been assigned to St. Francisville. Rev. Orlando BRAKEMEYER of Mt. Vernon has been assigned to our church. Rev. Burdette WALKINGTON, one of our preaching boys, has been assigned to the Damoree Methodist Church in Centralia.

- Pvt. Harry GRAY, Jr., arrived here Monday to spend a 45 day furlough with his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry GRAY, Sr. and family. Harry entered the service Sept. 8, 1943, and sailed overseas March 22, 1944. He later went to Scotland, England and on July 14th, entered France with the 4th Armored Division. At Rushing Court in Northern France, on Sept. 27, he was wounded in the right knee by shrapnel. He was sent to a hospital in England where his wound healed. He was then assigned to the 1259th Military Police Division and on March 12, 1945, went back to France and was stationed at Abbeyville. On May 18th he sailed for Trinidad and from there to British Guinea. He left there by plane on Sept. 19th and arrived in Miami, Fla., the following day. Pvt. GRAY wears the Infantryman’s badge, Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Normandy and Northern France, and the Purple Heart. After the expiration of his furlough he will report back to Miami where he has been assigned to the Army Transport Command.

- William LEMAY, son of George and Eliza LEMAY, died at the Veteran’s Hospital, Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, Oct. 22, 1945, at the age of 56 years. Bill was born in Kentucky, coming to Kinmundy when just a boy. He attended school in Kinmundy. After World War I was declared, he was one of the first to go. He received 3 medals of bravery, also the purple heart. He married Carrie CAFFEE of Hillsboro, Ill., soon after receiving his discharge from the army. They had 2 boys and a girl: Gene, now in the Navy, stationed in Pensacola, Fla.; Don in grade school, and a daughter, Linda, age 3. He is a brother of Alfred LEMAY of this city. Attending the funeral from here were: Mr. and Mrs. Alfred LEMAY and son, Harold; Mrs. Charles GRAY and sons; Mrs. Clifton LEMAY, and Mrs. Thurman GENTRY and daughters.

- Winners from the Fox Hunters 4th Annual Meeting held Sept. 13, 14, and 15 were announced. First second and third prizes were:

Ladies Horn Blowing Contest: Lottie May MULVANEY, Mrs. Mary REESE

Men’s Horn Blowing Contest: Harry NICHOLS; Richard WEST

Oldest Married Couple on Ground: Mr. and Mrs. Leonard WEST

Men’s Jig Contest: Arly LOGAN; Mike BUTTS

Girl’s Jig Contest: Lottie May MULVANEY; Delores DYER

Ugliest Man Present: Willie BUTTS

Dogs and Owners listed in following categories:

BENCH SHOW:

Derby Dogs, Male: Rock - Frank LINDER, Salem; Rambler - Frank LINDER, Salem

Derby Dogs, Females: Lark - C.C. BASSETT, Kinmundy

All Age Dogs, Male: Crowder - F. LINDER, Salem

All Age Dogs, Female: Judy - Harry NICHOLS, Farina; Ellen - Dayton CRUTCHFIELD, Alma

Grand Champion Hound: Crowder - F. LINDER, Salem

Derby Dogs, Field Trial: Rock - F. LINDER, Salem; Bugle Ann - Paul COURSON, Kinmundy;

Lark - C.C. BASSETT, Kinmundy

All Age Dogs, Field Trial: Ellen - Dayton CRUTCHFIELD, Alma; Trouble - J.B. KAMP, Salem;

Judy -Harry NICHOLS, Farina

Officers elected for 1946 were: J. Lem BALLANCE, Pres., Kinmundy; G.W. JETT, V. Pres., Odin; A.O. CHARLTON, Sec’y & Treas., Kinmundy; Directors (all from Kinmundy: C.S. CHANCE, T.E. ROBB, Ray MULVANEY, J.B. MAXEY, Mike BUTTS.

- Dinner Guests: Mrs. Edwin HARRELL invited Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS to Sunday dinner Sept. 30th to celebrate the birthday anniversary of Mr. HARRELL and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS, which came on Oct. 1st. Mr. and Mrs. Fred HARRIS of St. Elmo, Ill., were also invited guests, celebrating their wedding anniversary. A very delicious dinner was served by the hostess.

- Mrs. Chas. SIEMER and Mrs. J.H. NELMS spent a few days this week in Louisville with Mr. and Mrs. Harry DENNIS. Mrs. NELMS celebrated her 82nd birthday, Oct. 2nd.

- PFC and Mrs. Fred GAMMON were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Francis HAMMER and daughter, Kaye.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth LECKRONE and son, Garrett, are visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. O.E. GARRETT. Kenneth has just completed his boot training at Sampson, N.Y.

- Meacham: William WEISS is home on leave from the Navy and he with Merle JOHNSTON called on Mr. Ed HARRELL Monday afternoon.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Claude HIESTAND received a telephone call Saturday from their son, Cpl. Walter HIESTAND in New Jersey stating he would soon be in Chicago for a few days before returning home.

- Mr. and Mrs. F.O. GRISSOM, Mrs. B.E. SIPLE, and Mrs. Jane HOHLT were in Effingham Sunday helping her brother, Mr. and Mrs. L.E. GRISSOM, celebrate their 36th wedding anniversary. The GRISSOMs have a son and daughter, and 2 grandchildren.

- In commemoration of Mrs. Harry SEMRO’s (?) birthday, Peggy JACKSON’s (?) birthday, and little Brenda Sue WILLIAMS 4th birthday, Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS and Mrs. Cora WILLIAMS, invited the following guests to a chicken dinner Sunday: Mrs. Lura ROBNETT and family, Mr. and Mrs. Harry SEMRO of Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Riley WILLIAMS, and Mr. and Mrs. A. JACKSON and 2 daughters.

Oct. 11, 1945:

- 200 members and visitors attended the meeting of Columbia Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, Tuesday evening at the Masonic Temple in Everett, Wash., and honored Mr. and Mrs. Myron DEIWERT in observance of their 60th wedding anniversary. The event was copied from a clipping from the newspaper in Everett, Wash.

- The relatives of Mrs. Ed JONES gave her a pleasant surprise Saturday, it being her birthday. They came at the noon hour with well filled baskets to help her celebrate. Guests were: Mr. and Mrs. Will HARKEY of St. Peter; Mr. and Mrs. Paul MONICAL of Farina; and Mr. and Mrs. J.A. HOLT. She also received a large number of cards and gifts.

- Sgt. Elwin INGRAM is spending a furlough here with his mother, Mrs. Agnes INGRAM.

- PFC and Mrs. Lawrence BASSETT arrived here last Saturday to visit their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest BASSETT. And it may be that they will make their home in this community as Lawrence received his discharge from the army at Camp McCoy, Wis. on Sept. 27th. Lawrence spent almost 4 years in the army, 29 months of which was spent in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater. After his return to the states, he spent a very enjoyable 30 day furlough here with his parents. He was then sent to Miami, Fla., and then to Camp McCoy, Wis. On May 16th, he was married to Miss Leah JOHNSON, of Tomah, Wis. We are truly glad to welcome this lad and his wife and sincerely hope they will see fit to settle down in this community. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mrs. J.N. VALLOW went to St. Louis Monday where she underwent a major operation, yesterday.

- T5 Elwin TROUT, son of Mr. and Mrs. Verchial TROUT, arrived home last Thursday after receiving his discharge at Jefferson Barracks that day. Elwin entered the service Nov. 23, 1941, and shipped overseas in April 1942, landing in Australia. From there he went to New Guinea, then back to Australia, then back to New Guinea, then back to Biak Island, then Mendora, Palawan, Mindanao, and Leyte and finally landed in the states at San Francisco, Sept. 24. From there, he came to Jefferson Barracks, where he received his discharge. Cpl. TROUT wears the Good Conduct Ribbon, American Defense, Combat Badge, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars, representing Papuan, New Guinea, and Philippine Campaigns. Although in another company, Kenneth WILKINSON traveled right along with Elwin. They entered the service together and arrived at Jefferson Barracks together. But Kenneth has a touch of malaria and it was necessary for him to be hospitalized there for a few days before receiving his discharge papers. Neither of these boys were granted a furlough to come home, before shipping overseas. Needless to say that Elwin was sure glad to get home and we know that Kenneth will also. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. C.R. ALDERSON left Tuesday for Chicago to spend a few days with their son, PFC Leland ALDERSON and wife. PFC Leland is enjoying a 30 day furlough after serving in France the past 7 months. After his furlough has expired, he will report for duty in Birmingham, Ala.

- James HAMMER, SOM 2c, left Sunday to return to his base at San Diego, Calif., after spending a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron HAMMER and family. They also had with them another son, Sgt. Howard HAMMER, who has recently returned from Europe a second time. He left the first of the week for Ft. Sheridan where he expects to receive his discharge.

- Joseph SLOVICK, MM 2c, son of Mrs. Mary SLOVICK, arrived here Oct. 1, after receiving his discharge from the Navy on Sept. 28th. Joe was discharged from Great Lakes and he had some sisters in Chicago, whom he visited a few days before coming home. Joe entered the service in June 1942, and was assigned to the C.B.’s. He shipped overseas in Sept. 1942, and spent more than a year on Guadacanal, returning to the states in Dec. 1943. He was then granted a 30 day leave, which he spent here at home. After his leave expired, he reported to Albany, Calif., where he was stationed and did civil engineering. Joe wears the Presidential Unit Citation, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon. Joe did not lose any time in getting back in the old groove. He is back at his old job with the Texas Co., of Salem, doing civil engineering.

- Mrs. Gladys EAGAN received word from her sons, Noah and James, that they had met at Camp Philadelphia, Reims, France. According to the word received, the boys have been stationed close to each other and did not know it. Both boys are expecting to be shipped home soon, as both are high point men. James’ wife, Mrs. Wanda EAGAN, resides in Kinmundy, and Noah’s wife, Mrs. Betty EAGAN, resides in Sesser, Ill.

- Pvt. Harry GRAY, Jr., who arrived home Oct. 1st, to spend a 30 day furlough with his wife and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry GRAY, Sr., and family. Pvt. GRAY has been in the service 2 years, and was wounded in the knee at Rushing Court, France, on Sept. 27, 1944. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Lt. Marion and Rhoda CROSSETT WILSON have a son, David Martial, born Oct. 3 in San Diego, Calif. Rhoda and baby are doing well. And so are Grandpa and Grandma CROSSETT.

- Mrs. Prudence WILKINSON received word this week that a son was born to Lt. and Mrs. Joe TELFORD on Oct. 5, named Thomas Edwin. Grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. J. Roy TELFORD. Lt. TELFORD is stationed at the Naval Hospital in San Diego. This makes great-grandchild No. 7 for Mrs. WILKINSON.

- Tony, the cocker spaniel owned by Dick and Dennis DOOLEN has joined the family in East Lansing, Mich. The little black, shiny-coated dog revealed his super devotion when he came alone all the way from Aurora, Ill., where the family used to live, to East Lansing, 5 weeks after they had left Illinois. Travel worn, guant, and excited, he greeted Miner DOOLEN, father of the boys, one day near the spot where the DOOLEN car was parked in Lansing. Miner DOOLEN, is associated with a construction company there. Dick is aged 12, and Dennis, aged 10. Miner is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dan DOOLEN, former residents of this community.

- Wilson School: Mrs. Fred STOCK and son, Frederick, who has just returned home after spending 2˝ years overseas, of Effingham, were visiting at the KLEISS home.

- Meacham: Ira MERRITT and family attended a shower at the home of Mrs. Iva COURSON in honor of her daughter and husband, Mr. and Mrs. James TATE, Jr., Saturday evening.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL and Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS were Salem visitors, Saturday.

- Omega: Paul JENKINS’ home caught fire on the roof Monday, but was quickly extinguished by the neighbors who gathered. Quite a bit of damage was done to the roof.

- Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS was a weekend guest in Alma with her niece, Mrs. Rada CALDWELL.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Glenn ROBB and son, Richard L. ROBB, Cox, who is spending a 30 day leave from the South Pacific, and Mrs. Daryll ROBB of Colorado City, Texas, were guests Sunday of Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN.

- Swift School: Mrs. Claude HANNA and Mrs. Chas LOWE enjoyed a potluck dinner with their mother, Mrs. Effie ROBB, Thursday, it being her (?) birthday.

- Swift School: Mrs. Bertha SEE, our teacher, ate supper with Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and family, Friday.

- Swift School: Carroll GARRETT and family visited Sunday evening with the R.H. GREENs.

Mrs. Harriett MILLER has received word from her husband, PFC Ray MILLER, stating that he expects to be home before long.

- It is reported that Edgar MORRIS, who was recently liberated from a Jap prison camp, is at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl MORRIS in Marshall, Ill., where he is spending a 90 day leave.

- Pvt. Basil GENTRY of Ft. Benning, Ga. arrived here Tuesday to spend a 21 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Retus GENTRY and family.

- Richard MAULDING, who has been attending the U. of I., is here visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.C. MAULDING.

- Mr. and Mrs. W.D. RODE celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in Brownstown, Sunday.

- Miss Norma MILLER left Sunday to enter the U. of I. in Champaign as a Freshman.

Oct. 18, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from Paul PARRISH, SC2c, who is still sailing on the USS Clementine. He says: Have delayed writing to you long enough so will write while I have time and before I forget it. First of all, I want to thank you for the paper as there has been much news for me in your papers. I haven’t received any for a long time, in fact, about 3 months nor have I received all the copies sent, but the ones which I did receive were more than welcome. I haven’t been getting much mail anymore, just occasionally, as it has been fouled up somewhere. Sometimes we go a month or more without a single letter then my morale is far below zero. I suppose you would like to know just where I have been and what I’ve been doing out here. Well, since the ensoring has been stopped I will tell you. I was in on the initial invasion of Iwo Jima, stayed there 81 days loading and unloading ships. Have been to Saipan 3 times, Guam once Einwetock of the Marshall Islands; Leyte, Luzon and Panay of the Philippines and Okinaw. I was at Okinaw when we received the announcement that the war was over. You can bet your last dollar that it was good news to all of us. Right now I’m at Panay of the Philippines getting ready to shove off for some part of north. Of course, I won’t say where as it’s too early yet. That’s about all I can tell you at this time that would interest you.

- Here’s a nice letter from Joseph LOVETT, S1c, who is sailing around on the USS LST 764. He says. Due to the mail situation, I haven’t been receiving your paper regularly but very soon now we should be in a position to receive all of our mail which is long overdue. At the present time we are in the port of Jensen in Korea, unloading troops and cargo. I shall be very happy to see this operation over because it rains out here almost continuously. According to the scuttlebutt going around we will leave here tomorrow afternoon for Leyte where we will pick up another load of troops and take then in Shanghai. Since leaving the states on the 28th of June, we have been to Guam, Pearl Harbor, Eaiwetock, Uluthi, Leyte, Hoilo PANEY, and finally we wound up here at this God forsaken place. We are expecting to return to the states sometime within the near future to have this water wagon decommissioned. After this job is completed I expect to get a leave and Kinmundy will be my destination. Cooking is somewhat of a job these days because we are living almost entirely out of cans and dehydrated food is a very popular item with everybody except the fellows that have to eat it. During our brief visit here, I have had the opportunity to pick up some foreign money which I will show you upon my return to the old home town. I find trading is the Philippines to be a very profitable; in fact, a carton of cigarettes will bring as much as five dollars and clothing is even higher. Inflation is terrible. We have a number of high point men on here that have been eligible for discharge for sometime and today they haven’t done anything for these fellows. Apparently the Navy can find more excuses to keep a man then the law allows. Some of these fellows are a military necessity, but yet others are not and about all they are doing is riding. I suppose the Government will let them got at their convenience. Once we hit the states again, I don’t expect to be out before my time is up, which will be July 8, 1946.

- 1st Lt. Ralph DAY, wife and daughter, arrived in Alma Oct. 8th to visit his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight DAY. Lt. DAY is home on Terminal Leave and will receive his discharge Nov. 15th. Ralph entered the service in July 1942 and took his basic training in the Infantry. After his basic, he was selected for Officers’ Candidate School and was commissioned in April 1948. On Dec. 31, 1948, he was transferred to the Air Corps and received his wings in Sept. 1944. In April 1945, just as he was ready to ship overseas, he was promoted to First Lieutenant. His group was split up then and he, nor several of his buddies, had the privilege of flying over foreign soil. After receiving his discharge, Ralph intends to go to Alabama where he will seek employment.

- PFC Cecil BRIM arrived here Oct. 9th to spend sometime with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James BRIM and family. He was discharged from Camp McCoy, Wis., the day previous. Cecil entered the service Feb. 11, 1941, and shipped overseas Aug. 18, 1942, landing in England. From there he went to Africa, then to Sicily, Italy, France and Austria. He landed back to the states at New York, on Sept. 30th. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the campaigns of Africa, Sicily, Naples and Rome-Arno. Cecil hasn’t said just hat he intends to do now except get caught up on his loafing and sleeping. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Sgt. Beryl DISS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville DISS, returning home Tuesday morning after receiving his discharge at Camp Campbell, Ky., the day previous. Sgt. DISS spent almost 3 years in the army, and 9 months of this time was spent in the European Theater. He landed back in the states July 19th and arrived home on the 22nd for a furlough with his parents and his wife and son. Since the expiration of his furlough, he has been traveling back and forth to Kentucky. Sgt. DISS and his family have taken rooms with Mrs. Florence CONANT. He will return to his old job in Salem. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Sgt. Kenneth WILKINSON, so of Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON, arrived home Saturday evening wearing his "ruptured duck", after spending part of his week in the hospital at Jefferson Barracks and the past 41 months helping to show the Japs just who was who. Kenneth entered the service Nov. 23, 1941, and shipped overseas in April 1942, landing in Australia, then back to New Guinea, then to Biak Island, then to Mendora, Palawan, Mindonoa, and Leyte, and finally landed back in the states at San Francisco Sept. 24 From there, he came to Jefferson Barracks, where he received his discharge Oct. 13th. Sgt. WILKINSON wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Badge, Pre-Pearl Harbor and Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 3 stars, representing the Papuan, New Guinea, and Philippine campaigns. As stated last week, Sgt. WILKINSON and Cpl. Elwin TROUT entered the army together and stayed side by side all the way through, until they reached Jefferson Barracks, where Sgt. WILKINSON was hospitalized for a week. We know that Kenneth is glad to get home and we are glad to have him. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mrs. Fannie K. EAGAN and Miss Evelyn KILLIE received word this morning of the death of their mother’s sister, Miss Alice OSBORN, which occurred at her home in Wilmington, Delaware. Her death was sudden and comes as a shock to her relatives. The body will be brought to Farina where interment will be made.

- Master Sergeant John G. HANSON of Kinmundy, husband of Mrs. Alma HANSON, of Barlesville, Okla., re-enlisted in the army recently to continue his career as a professional soldier. He took the oath at Jefferson Barracks. A veteran with 16 years of military experience. Sergeant HANSON was overseas 2 years and 2 months in World War, II serving in Australia, New Guinea and the Philippines. He was awarded 6 battle stars.

- Mr. and Mrs. C.R. ALDERSON were in Chicago last week attending the formal announcement of the wedding of their son, Leland, to Miss Fermy SCHULTZ, of Chicago. On Wednesday a wedding breakfast was held at the Shoreland Hotel and in the evening dinner at Mickleberry’s Log Cabin. The marriage took place prior to Leland’s entrance into the service. After his recuperation furlough, he will report for duty at Birmingham, Ala.

- A letter was printed from Harry G. WHITSON of St. Louis, former resident of this city.

- Mr. J.R. HARRELL, who recently purchased the Farina Lyric Theater, paid our office a call this week. He stated that as soon as he could get some improvements completed, he intends to run the show every nigh during the week, except Monday.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Chas. SHUFELDT are parents of a little son.

- Swift School: William GREEN received word from his son, Lyle, Sunday stating he had landed in the U.S.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT were shopping in Salem, Saturday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN received a letter from their son, Keith, saying he would be leaving the states for overseas the 22nd of the month.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Selby GARRETT and son, Tom, and daughter, Mrs. Rada CALDWELL of Alma, spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and daughters.

- Swift School: Mrs. Bertha SEE, our teacher, has been entertaining the children by taking them home with her to spend the night.

- Omega: Oggie BRANSON, who has been discharged from the army, was here Saturday. A dinner was held at his mother’s home in Salem in his honor.

- Brown: No school at Oak Park Thursday afternoon and Friday on account of the teacher, Otis TATE, being ill.

- East Zion: A large crowd attended the Pie Supper at Jones School Wednesday night. $76 was taken in and $60 was cleared. Miss Elsie TOCKSTEIN is teacher.

- East Zion: S. Sgt. James Marvin BASSETT left Saturday night for Camp Grant after spending a 45 day furlough here with his wife and daughter and parents and sister.

- East Zion: Lieut. Duane WALTON called his mother, Mrs. Addis WALTON, from California, stating that he had received his discharge and was on his way home.

- Prairie Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Lowell REESE, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph BOUSMAN and son, Richard, and Mr. and Mrs. Art WEISS and daughter, Virginia, attended a kitchen shower in Farina Sunday in the home of Mrs. Olga WEISS for Mr. and Mrs. John WEISS.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Word has been received that Marion HINES, son of Mr. and Mrs. Otis HINES, has been sent overseas. He was sent from Ft. Riley, Kansas to Ft. Ord, Cal., in Sept. where he embarked.

- Wilson School: On Saturday about 75 neighbors and friends honored Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and daughters with a farewell party, as they will soon be leaving Sunny Slope Farm and moving to their new home in Kinmundy. Games, music and singing were enjoyed, and refreshments served. They were presented with a lovely coffee table as a gift. A list of those attending was included.

- Meacham: Oct. 9, Miss Helen MAURER and John WEISS were married at Monroe, Wis. They came to Farina on Thursday to the home of his mother, Mrs. Olga WEISS. On Friday, a large number of friends gave the couple a charivari at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Merl JOHNSON. On Sunday the C.B. Circle gave them a shower at the home of Mrs. Olga WEISS in Farina. William WEISS, S1c, was also present, being home on leave.

- Meacham: Pvt. Earl OUTHOUSE came home on furlough Monday, and is visiting his wife and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert OUTHOUSE.

- Mrs. Nettie GEORGE was pleasantly surprised Sunday when she returned home from Church and found her house full of relatives and her stove and table laden with good things to eat, and a birthday cake. The surprise was in honor of her own and her twin sister, Mrs. Pearl McWHIRTER’s, 54th birthday. It was the first time in 40 years they had been together for their birthday. A list of those attending was included.

- Mr. and Mrs. R.J. ANDREWS have a daughter born in Vincennes, Ind. on Oct. 14.

- Mrs. J.R. MAHAN received a telephone call from her son, Ensign Robert MAHAN of USS Richmond, on Tuesday. He was then in Norfolk but was leaving soon for Miami, Fla., where his ship will be on inspection on Navy Day.

- PFC Earl SCHWABE of Oklahoma came Monday to visit a few days here with his family.

- Charles DOOLEN, ARM3c, arrived here Monday to spend a 30 day leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN. He landed in the states Oct. 8th. He has been flying from the carrier, USS Anzio and has been to China, Japan and Korea.

- Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and children of Sumner spent Friday here with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER, and Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB. They were enroute to Coffeen where they visited over the weekend.

Oct. 25, 1945:

- Lewis SPURLIN, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.T. SPURLIN, of Vandalia, was graduated from the officers’ candidate school at Quantico, Va., October 10 with commission as second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a private first class when entered the school several weeks ago. Lieut. SPURLIN returned home from the Pacific War last January after many months in the front lines and in several major Pacific land campaigns. After a recuperation furlough at home and further duty at Camp Leueune, he entered the Quantico Marine officers’ school. Lieut. SPURLIN’s outfit of 600 marines participated in the parade in Washington, D.C., honoring and welcoming Admiral Chester W. NIMITZ. Theirs were the only Marines in the parade, although there were 400 Marine Women Reserves and 2000 midshipmen.

- Mrs. Pauline DOOLEN and son left last week for Seattle, Wash., to join her husband, Bennie, AM1 C, who is stationed there.

- Mrs. Effie ROBB and daughter, Miss Florence DOOLEN, left for Hammond, Ind. last Thursday to visit their son and brother, Forrest DOOLEN and family.

- S. Sgt. Lyle E. BARBEE arrived home on Oct. 17th with his discharge from the army. His wife, Sarah, and 2 children and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE reside in Kinmundy. Lyle entered the army on Jan. 12, 1943, and shipped overseas on May 15, 1943 landing in Australia. He was then in the beach landing on Saidor, and was also in the Aitap, Morati, Leyte, and Luzon campaigns. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, Asia-Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, awarded 3 bronze stars for the New Guinea, Leyte, and Luzon Campaigns, and 5 overseas bars. Lyle arrived in Seattle, Wash. on Oct. 7, and was sent to Jefferson Barracks where he received his discharge. His plans for the future are undecided, as he wants to catch up on visiting with his daughter, as this was their first meeting.

- Mrs. Margaret GRAMLEY was taken to the Salem Hospital Saturday after a heavy limb had fallen across her back. She and her brother, Frank HUMPHREY, were pruning some of the trees about her yard, and she got in the way of a falling limb. Says it’s the first time she ever did such a trick as that. There are no broken bones, just a badly bruised back.

- Ray INGRAM, PHM1 c, and Mrs. INGRAM are announcing the arrival of a daughter born in Centralia Hospital, Oct. 18, named Lynda Rae. Daddy is sailing around Tokyo somewhere and is supposed to be on his way home. So he really doesn’t know it as yet.

- Sgt. Charles KLINE arrived here Saturday evening to spend a 10 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chester KLINE and family. After the expiration of his furlough he will report back to Ft. Sheridan where he will receive his discharge. Charles entered the service Feb. 3, 1942, and shipped overseas on Dec. 29, 1943, landing in England. From there he went to France, then to Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and Czechoslovakia. He started back to the states on Oct. 7th and landed in Boston October 15th. He was with the 4th Armored Division 37th Tank Battalion. Sgt. KLINE wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, Presidential Citation and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 5 stars, representing the battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Central Europe, and Ardennes. We are all very happy to see Charles at home again and we know he is mighty glad to be back. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Word has been received here of the promotion of PFC Chas. BERRY to that of Tec 5. He is stationed in Bad Wimphen, Germany.

- PFC Charles BRIM, son of Mr. and Mrs. James BRIM, arrived home Oct. 16th after receiving his discharge from the army at Camp Grant the day previous. Charles entered the service Jan. 30, 1943, and shipped overseas Dec. 25, 1943, landing in Scotland. From there he went to France then to Belgium, Holland, and Germany. He started back to the states Sept. 25, landing at New Port News Oct. 3rd. Charles was with the 573rd Signal Warning Battalion. He wears the Good Conduct Medal, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Northern France, Rhineland and Central Germany, and the Belgium Fourragere. Charles says he doesn’t exactly know what he will do in the future, but for the present, he will just loaf. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- S. Sgt. Elwin INGRAM received his discharge from the army Oct. 9th at Scott Field, after serving 42 months with the Air Corps as a ground mechanic. He is here visiting his mother, Mrs. Agnes INGRAM, but will soon leave for Lawrenceville, Ill., where he expects to enter business.

- 1st Lt. Dwayne WALTON is now spending a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.A. WALTON, of the Zion neighborhood, after receiving his discharge on Oct. 8th at Santa Anna, Calif. Dwayne entered the service June 16, 1943, enlisting in the Air Corps. He received his wings and was commissioned a Flight Officer on Aug. 30, 1943, advanced to the rank of 2nd Lieut. Aug. 20, 1944, and then to 1st Lieut. Jan. 22, 1945. He flew overseas early in 1944, landing in Naples, Italy, via North Africa. He flew 70 missions and has 58 Sorties to his credit. He started back to the states on May 20 and was permitted to spend a 30 day rest and recuperation furlough here with his parents in July and August, after which he reported back for duty at Santa Anna, Calif. Lt. WALTON wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Pre-Pearl Harbor Ribbon, the Air Medal with 7 clusters, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 7 stars representing the battles of Northern Apinines, Po Valley, and Brenner Pass, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, Central Germany, and Interior Germany, the Croix de Guerre and the Presidential Citation. As to his future, Dwayne says he is going on to school, either at the University of Illinois or the University of California, he hasn’t decided which.

- Wilson School: M. Sgt. Charles KLINE came home last Saturday on a 10 day furlough. He has just returned after almost 2 years in the European Theater of War.

- Meacham: Earl OUTHOUSE is home from the Army and received his discharge the first of the week.

- Shriver School: A family gathering was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edd ATTERBURY. Their son, Lewis, has recently returned from overseas.

- Pleasant Grove: PFC Roy MILLER arrived home Thursday for a few days furlough before going to Chicago for army discharge.

- Swift School: Mrs. O.E. GARRETT was called to Kinmundy Saturday afternoon, her mother having been hurt by a falling tree in her yard. She was taken to the Salem Hospital. The community hopes for her a speedy recovery.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and Donna Mae spent Sunday in Patoka at the Roy JONES home.

- Swift School: Mrs. Irene GAMMON spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and daughters.

- Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER and Mr. and Mrs. F.W. HAMMER and daughter visited Sunday in Sumner with Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and family.

Nov. 1, 1945:

- Capt. Roy DOOLEN arrived home last Saturday to again be with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleve DOOLEN and his wife, the former Lela Mae NICHOLS. He is home on Terminal leave and after the expiration of this leave, will receive his discharge. Roy entered the service in January 1942. After taking his basic training and attending Officers’ Candidate School at Ft. Riley, Kansas, was commissioned 2nd Lieut. In October 1942. He was later promoted to 1st Lieut. In October 1942. He was later promoted to 1st Lieutenant at Camp Maxey, Texas, in Sept. 1943. He shipped overseas in November 1943, landing in England, where he was stationed until the invasion of France. He went into Normandy on D-Day plus 6. From there he went to Northern France, then to Belgium, Germany and then into Czechoslovakia. Here in May 1945, he was promoted to Captain. Here also in May, he was awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service. He sailed for the states on Oct. 14th, from LaHarve, France, landing in Boston on Oct. 21st. Capt. DOOLEN wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 6 stars, representing the campaigns of Normandy, Northern France, Belgium, Rhineland, Ardennes, and Central Europe. Capt. DOOLEN was attached to the 102nd Cavalry Division. He says his plans are indefinite for the present. Anyway, we are all glad to welcome Capt. DOOLEN home again. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- PFC Earl OUTHOUSE, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert OUTHOUSE, of Meacham twp., received his discharge from the army at Ft. Sheridan Oct. 23, and arrived here the following day to be with his parents, and his wife, the former, Orphia GOODWIN. Earl entered the service June 25, 1942 and shipped overseas May 13, 1943, landing at Casa Blanca. From there he went to Oran, then to Italy, Southern France, Northern France, Germany, and then to Belgium, where he embarked, where he embarked for the states on Oct. 3, landing in New York, October 11. PFC wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 1 Arrow Head, representing the invasion of Southern France, and 5 stars, representing the battles of Tunsia, Rome, Southern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. Earl says he is getting rested now and is looking for a job.

- Cpl. Louie SOUTIER, son of Marshall SOUTIER of the Zion neighborhood, received his discharge from Camp McCoy, Wis., Oct. 7th, and arrived home a few days later, where he is now well contented to be with his father and his 2 sisters, Miss Kathryn and Mrs. Loren JOHNSON, who is making her home with her father while her husband is serving in the army. Louie entered the service in February 1942. He trained in various camps here in the states and in November, 1942, was sent to Canada for further training. He shipped overseas in November, 1943, landing in England, where he remained until D-Day when he went to France on the Normandy Beach Invasion. From there he went into Belgium, Holland, and Germany. He sailed from LaHarve, France, for the states Sept. 30, landing in New York, Oct. 7th. From there, he was sent to Camp McCoy, Wis., where he received his discharge. Cpl. SOUTIER wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 4 stars, representing the battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Germany. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- S. Sgt. and Mrs. Alonzo CHURCH were here Thursday greeting friends. At present, they are at home with Mrs. CHURCH’s mother, in Iola, since Sgt. CHURCH received his discharge on Oct. 6. Being an attorney-at-law, upon entering the service, April 22, 1942, Alonzo was assigned to the Counter Intelligence Corps, Military Intelligence Service, War Dept. Throughout the war, he has been stationed in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Oklahoma. He was assigned to the Air Corps. He was discharged Oct. 6 at Patterson Field, Ohio. We are not only happy to welcome Lonnie and his good wife back with us again. But we are sorry to say that Lonnie says he hardly thinks that he will re-open his law office in Kinmundy.

- William J. BARBEE, Coxswain, son of Mrs. Maude BARBEE, arrived home Oct. 25, after receiving his discharge from the Navy at Great Lakes, Ill., the day previous. William entered the service July 17, 1942, and received his boot training at Great Lakes, Ill. After boot training, he reported to Pensacola, Fla., and from there to Seattle, Wash. He left Seattle July 22, 1943 for the Aleutian Islands where he saw some action and was stationed there until his return to the states, January 5, 1945. At that time, he was granted a 30 day leave, which was spent here with his mother. After his leave expired he reported for duty at Jacksonville, Fla., where he remained until being sent to Great Lakes for his discharge. William wears the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon.

- 1st Lt. Dwayne WALTON, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.A. WALTON, of the Zion neighborhood, who was discharged Oct. 8th. Lt. Dwayne was a Pilot in the Air Corps and flew 70 missions in the European Theater. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Emma Elizabeth BINGAMAN ZIMMER, daughter of John F. and Emily CLARK BINGAMAN, was born in Effingham Co. on April 25, 1863, and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Eva PARRISH in Kinmundy, on Oct. 25, 1945. On Dec. 24, 1882, she married David ZIMMER, who died Sept. 10, 1935. After this marriage, she resided in Shelby, Coles, and Cumberland Counties, and then moved to a farm near Kinmundy, where she lived until she had the misfortune of breaking her hip in April 1944. She leaves 3 children: Mrs. Eva PARRISH, Ener and George of Kinmundy; 5 grandchildren, Hugh PARRISH of Beloit, Wis.; Don PARRISH of India; Mrs. Ena OSTERHOLTZ of Centralia; Arlene and Alice Marie ZIMMER of Kinmundy; 3 great-grandchildren, Joan PARRISH, Charles and and Bobby OSTERHOLTZ; 1 brother, John H. BINGAMAN of Neoga; 4 sisters, Mrs. Mary BRUCE and Mrs. Mabel BLACK of Findlay; Mrs. Dora REHBERG of Champaign, and Mrs. Bertha THOMPSON of Vancouver, British Columbia; and several nieces and nephews. Services were conducted at M.E. Church from Kinmundy, and interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mr. and Mrs. T.C. JORDAN of Conway, South Carolina, announce the engagement of their daughter, Miss Marie JORDAN, to Sergeant Floryan REPEC, son of Mrs. T.W. MAYBERRY of Salem. For the past 2 years, Miss JORDAN has been employed at the Myrtle Beach Army Air Field in the Purchasing and Contracting office. Sergeant REPEC has served with the armed forces for the past 5 years. He recently returned from overseas, after serving with the 17th Airborne Division in Europe. At present he is stationed at Camp Mackall, North Carolina. The wedding will take place in November.

- St. Philomena’s Church will celebrate Diamond Jubilee, Nov. 6. Although this church is small and stands in a rather secluded place in Kinmundy, it has weathered storms for 75 years. The original building still stands, but it is the fond hope of the pastor and parishioners, that a beautiful new edifice will take it’s place in the near future. (A picture of the Church accompanied this article.)

- Verchial TROUT has resigned his position as Chief of Police and accepted a position in the Salem Oil field. J.G. WATSON has been appointed by Mayor BOONE as Chief of Police.

- Born in Ft. Ord, Calif. Hospital, and daughter on Oct. 22, to PFC and Mrs. Robert G. MARSHALL, Ft. Ord, Calif. She was named Darlene Fay.

- A picture was printed of S. Sgt. Lyle BARBEE, who arrived home Oct. 17th after receiving his discharge. He is a veteran of the Asiatic-Pacific Theater.

- Wilson School: M. Sgt. Charles KLINE returned to Ft. Sheridan Monday after a 10 day furlough.

- Swift School: Capt. Roy DOOLEN arrived home Saturday from overseas to spend 90 day furlough with his wife, Lela Mae, and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cleve DOOLEN.

- Swift School: Mrs. Bertha SEE, our teacher, entertained Swift community and North Fork School to a very enjoyable Halloween Party Friday night.

- Swift School: Capt. and Mrs. Roy DOOLEN ate dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Sam LOWE Monday and helped Sammy celebrate his birthday.

- Swift School: Mrs. Effie ROBB and daughter, Florence, called on Mrs. Chas. LOWE and Mrs. C.A. HANNA, Wednesday evening.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT ate dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT, Thursday.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL called on Mr. and Mrs. E.G. DILLON Wednesday afternoon. Mr. HARRELL was taken very ill last Friday night but is improving and able to be about.

- Pleasant Grove: PFC Roy MILLER and family left Wednesday for a few days with his parents and other relatives in Indiana and will go to Chicago where he will receive his discharge.

- Pleasant Grove: Herbert ANDERSON was taken to the hospital Thursday. He has blood poisoning in his hands.

- Mrs. L.J. HAMMER is in Sumner with her son and family. Dale is on the sick list.

- Omega: Albert PERRY has purchased the store building here from Zarold LEWIS.

- Omega: Darrell SMITH, who is spending his furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John SMITH, was in Omega, Saturday.

- Mrs. Emma SMITH fell in her home near Iuka, Monday, and broke her hip. She was taken to Salem Hospital. She has spent winters here with her sisters, Mrs. SIPLE, Mrs. HOHLT, and Mrs. GRISSOM.

- T5 Dwight INGRAM arrived here yesterday from Japan to spend a few days with his mother, Mrs. Agnes INGRAM, returning to Ft. Sheridan to receive his discharge.

- Cpl. and Mrs. Albert CORRELL left Sunday for Monroe, La. where Cpl. CORRELL is now stationed.

- Mrs. Bertha ANDREWS, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Wm. ANDREWS, and Sgt. and Mrs. Harry R. LECKRONE, of Salem, were in Marshall Sunday attending the wedding of the former’s nephew, Ralph Edgar MORRIS, Musician 2c, who was recently liberated from a Japanese Prison Camp at Singapore. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. W.E. MORRIS.

- Mrs. Wm. HOUSE and little daughter have gone to Chicago to make their home with the husband and father, who has recently been discharged from the Navy, and is attending school there.

- Miss Norma MILLER, a student of the U. of I. - Champaign, spent Sunday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arno MILLER and Marilyne.

Nov. 8, 1945:

- A picture was printed of William J. BARBEE, Coxswain, son of Mrs. Maude BARBEE, who received his discharge from the Navy, Oct. 24th. He spent 18 months in the Aleutian Islands.

- Tec 5 Merle JACKSON, son of Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON, arrived home Nov. 6th, after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant on Nov. 4th. Merle was among the first to enter the service from this community, April 17th, 1941. But due to his age, he was temporarily released and was home again for 4 months. He was recalled March 12, 1942, and shipped overseas April 17th, 1944, landing on the Isle of Oahu. From there, he was sent to Guam, where he took part in the invasion. He also was in the invasion of Armoc, Leyte. Here he developed a blood clot in his leg and was evacuated to Saipan and then to the General Hospital, Schofield, Oahu. He started home Sept. 27, and landed in New York, Oct. 27th. Merle wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Guam and Leyte, the Philippine Liberation Defense Ribbon. If you want to see Merle, you will find him right back at his service station, taking up just where he left off.

- PFC Dean BRUBAKER arrived home Oct. 28th after receiving his discharge at Ft. Sheridan the day previous. He is again with his wife and family in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wesley JONES in this city. Dean entered the service Dec. 12, 1943, and shipped overseas May 12, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France on D-Day 28, and then into Germany. He started home Oct. 3, and landed in Boston, Oct. 12th. He arrived here Oct. 15th for a 9 day furlough. PFC BRUBAKER wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 4 stars representing the battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Germany.

- Miss Louise CLEVELAND of Spartanburg, S.C., and Lt. Charles E. PRUETT, MOUSN, were married Oct. 26 in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in San Diego, Calif. The bride was given in marriage by her brother, Major Conrad CLEVELAND, who recently returned from 3 years service in the South Pacific. The bride’s mother, Mrs. Conrad PIERCE CLEVELAND, also came from Spartanburg to attend the wedding. Others attending the wedding were Mr. and Mrs. Fred PRUETT, Boulder, Colo. The couple will reside in San Diego, where Lt. PRUETT is attached to the Naval Hospital.

- PFC Donald MILLER has spent the last few days here visiting friends and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Theodore MILLER. He arrived in Salem on Oct. 30 to be with his wife and son who have been making their home with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph FEATHER. Donald entered the service Dec. 2, 1942, and shipped overseas Jan. 7, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to Ireland and then back to England, then into France, Belgium, and Germany. He started for home Oct. 10th, landing at Hampton Roads, Oct. 18th. From there he was sent to Camp McCoy, Wis., where he received his discharge on Oct. 28th. PFC MILLER wears the Good Conduct Medal, and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 5 stars, representing the Battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. Donald will live with his family in Salem for while at least, where he expects to get employment.

- PFC Leon JONES, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar JONES, arrived home on Oct. 29th after receiving his discharge according to the Aviation Cadet discharge system at the Armarilla, Texas, Army Air Field. Leon enlisted in the Aviation Cadet Corps in 1943 while still in high school. He was called into service June 10, 1944, and since that time has been studying Airplane Mechanics at the Amarilla Army Air Field. We are glad to welcome Leon home again. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Margaret STEVENS HAMMER was born in Salem, Ill. on April 10, 1883, the daughter of Leroy and Sarah STEVENS. She married Dolph HAMMER of Kinmundy on Sept. 12, 1904. She was a life-long member of the Christian Church in Kinmundy, and died Nov. 1, after a long illness. She is survived by her husband; a sister, Mrs. Nettie NELMS of Peoria; and 1 brother, Lawrence STEVENS of Centralia. Services were held from the Christian Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- A picture was printed of PFC Earl OUTHOUSE, who was discharged from the army Oct. 23rd. Earl spent 29 months in the European Theater.

- Tec 5 Dwight INGRAM, son of Mr. and Mrs. Agnes INGRAM, arrived home yesterday after receiving his discharge from Ft. Sheridan the same day. Dwight entered the service on Jan. 5, 1943, and shipped overseas in April 1944, landing in the Hawaiian Islands. From there, he went to the Marshall Islands where he was stationed until he started back to the states on Oct. 10. He landed in Seattle, Wash., Oct. 22nd. He arrived here on Oct. 31 to spend a 5 day furlough before returning to Ft. Sheridan for his discharge. Dwight wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon and the American Theater of Operations Ribbon.

- Tec 5 Joseph INGRAM, son of Mrs. Agnes INGRAM, arrived home Nov. 2nd from Ft. Sheridan where he received his discharge the same day. Joe entered the service May 22, 1942, and shipped overseas Aug. 30, 1942, landing in Scotland. From there he went to England, then Algeria, then to Italy. He started back to the states Oct. 7th and landed in Palm Beach, Fla., Oct. 14th. He arrived here Oct. 18th for a 12 day furlough before returning to Ft. Sheridan to receive his discharge. Joe wears the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Tunisia and the Rome-Arno Campaign. Dwight and Joe will busy themselves opening their former place of business, Ingram’s Mill. And we wish them the best of success in re-establishing their trade. Another brother, Elwin, who was recently discharged from the army, will not re-enter business with them. He and his wife moved to Lawrenceville where he expects to enter business in the near future.

- The 75th History of St. Philomema’s Catholic Church was printed on two pages.

- PFC Howard ROBB and Miss Juanita BAILEY of Kankakee, arrived here Monday to visit with relatives and friends. Howard received his discharge from Ft. Sheridan on Nov. 2nd. PFC ROBB entered the service on Feb. 4, 1943, and shipped overseas in June of the same year, landing in New Caladonia. From there he went to Guadalcanal, New Britain, Luzon, Cebu, and Japan. He started home from Yokohama on Oct. 7, and landed in San Francisco, Oct. 19th. Howard wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations Ribbon with 3 stars representing the battles of Bougainville, Bismark Archipelago, and Luzon, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 star, representing the Philippine Campaign. Howard says his future is just a little undecided for the present.

- The following are the winners in the annual Halloween Party by the P.T.A. in the gymnasium, Oct. 31st: Negro Man: 1st Patricia BAILEY; 2nd Charles HOWELL; Negro Mammy: 1st Bonnie GRAY; 2nd Barbara Kay HAMMER; Ghost: 1st Patsy Ann DOOLEN; 2nd Garry GRAY; Girl Dressed as a boy: 1st Zola BARBEE; 2nd Donna BRASEL; Boy Dressed as a girl: 1st David HANNA; 2nd John DOOLEN; Hobo: 1st Betty GORDON; 2nd Betty JOHNSON; Witch: 1st Garry OLDEN; 2nd Alice Marie ZIMMER; Indian: 1st Lela Mae DOOLEN; 2nd Betty CHANCE; Cowboy: 1st Mae HANNA; 2nd Barbara HOWELL; Glamour Girl: 1st Virginia Sue WILLIAMS; 2nd Connie HOYT; Fat Man: 1st Garry ROBB; 2nd Jimmy DISS; Most Original Costume: 1st Betty FORD; 2nd Evelyn BASSETT; 3rd Virginia SPENCER; 4th Brenda GRAY; Best Dressed Couple: Mildred PERRY and Ruth DOOLEN.

- Headquarters, 13th Air Force, Leyte - William P. VANDEVEER of Kinmundy has been promoted to staff sergeant with the ‘Jungle Air Force’. He is a general courts-martial reporter for the Judge Advocate’s Office of the 13th Air Force. Sgt. VANDEVEER is the son of Mr. and Mrs. D.A. VANDEVEER of Kinmundy.

- Miss Jane MOSS, who lives with her mother, Mrs. Alice MOSS, Belleville, and a granddaughter of Mrs. George POWELL of this city, became the bride of J. Edward KASUKONIS of Haverhill, Mass. last Wednesday in the home of the bride’s mother.

- Dr. H.L. HANNA has his new house on Madison Street almost completed. He has started another house to the south, where his office formerly stood. After seeing the one house so nearly completed, it just looked so good to the doctor that he decided to raze his office building and build another house just like the first one. In other words, they will be twin houses. We congratulate Dr. HANNA on this move to erect some new houses and only hope there will be several more built within the next few years.

- Brown: Wm. (Bill) MONICAL received his discharge from the army and is visiting a few days with his brother-in-law, Roy WHITNEY and children.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Ray VANDEVEER have their house moved back now, where the old house was, near the barn and other buildings and have a basement under it. They have been cooking and sleeping at the Herbert ANDERSON and the Dalt VANDEVEER homes while moving their house.

- Earl PURDUE, of Haines twp., former Supt. of Kell High School and Grade School, was elected Secretary of the Marion County Farm Bureau on Nov. 2. He takes the office vacated by Ora M. ARNOLD of Foster twp., who is no longer a member of the Board of Directors.

- Mr. and Mrs. J. Lem BALLANCE were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Bryan PITTS. Mr. and Mrs. BALLANCE celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary.

- Mr. and Mrs. George R. POWELL, Mrs. S.E. SHELLY and C.B. MENDENHALL motored to Belleville Wednesday P.M. to attend the wedding of Miss Jane MOSS, granddaughter of Mrs. POWELL.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde BASSETT and daughters were shopping in Vandalia, Saturday.

- Swift School: Mr. Guy ARNOLD and Mr. Bert GARRETT are helping Mr. Frank GARRETT build a new garage.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and Judith Ann ate dinner with Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN, Sunday.

Nov. 15, 1945:

- The K.C.H.S. basketball boys, under the direction of J. Harley HAYES started practicing Oct. 22. This year the Hornets have 20 members out for basketball - Team Members: Robert JOHNSON, Floyd GARRETT, Charles GARDEN, Charles BASSETT, Bobby D. WILLIAMS, John GARDEN, Eugene LOGUE, Robert HOYT, Henry SPENCER, Ralph KRUTSINGER, Charles MONICAL, Vernon JEZEK, Clark KRUTSINGER, Jo BARGH, Robert FORD, Bobby GEILER, Darrell DISS, Bill WILSON, Loris WILLIAMS, Virgil POWELL; Managers: Elwyn CHEATUM, Benny BRASEL; Cheer Leaders: Marion JOHNSON, Mildred BAILEY, William AVERY.

- Tec 5 Joseph INGRAM, son of Mrs. Agnes INGRAM, who was discharged from Ft. Sheridan Nov. 2nd. Joe served in the European Theater an saw action in Africa and Italy.

- On Nov. 10, 1945 at the United Evangelical Church in Oak Park, Lucille BROSE married John Eugene MORGAN. The maid of honor was her niece, Mary Louise CONN of Chicago, and the bridesmaids, also nieces, were Shirley BROSE of St. Louis, and Nancy CONN of Chicago. Capt. Ronald T. FERGUSON, Eugene’s cousin, was best man; Ushers were John ASTROM of Ft. Wayne, Ind.; Pierce CONN and Raymond BROSE of Chicago. The bride was given away by her brother, Edwin BROSE of St. Louis. She is the youngest daughter of Mrs. W.C. BROSE and the groom the only son of Mrs. Ivy O. and the late Gilbert W. MORGAN of Chicago. After the ceremony a reception was held at the Masonic Temple in Chicago with music and dancing. About 250 relatives and friends attended the wedding and reception. Eugene spent most of his vacations here when a boy, his father being a former Kinmundian. His cousins, Hubert FISHER and wife attended the wedding.

- PFC Merle SCHNEIDER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman SCHNEIDER, arrived home Nov. 7th after receiving his discharge at Ft. Logan, Colo. Merle entered the service Jan. 14, 1942, and shipped overseas Dec. 31st, 1943, landing in Hawaii. From there he went to New Guinea, and then to the Philippines. He started home Oct. 13th and landed in Los Angeles, Oct. 30th. PFC SCHNEIDER wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 star, representing the Philippine Campaign, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with the battles of New Guinea, Leyte and Luzon, and the Victory Ribbon. Merle is undecided as to his future at the present time. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Tec 5 Dwight INGRAM, son of Mrs. Agnes INGRAM, who was discharged from Ft. Sheridan, Nov. 7th. Dwight served in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater and was stationed in the Marshall Islands. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- C.B. HARVEY Killed by M & I Engine in Centralia; Burial made in Evergreen Thursday: C.B. HARVEY, 60, former circulation manager for the Salem Republican and circulation manager for the Chicago Daily News in Centralia, was killed Tuesday morning when he stepped into the path of a Missouri & Illinois extra engine at the Chestnut and Fifth street crossing in Centralia. He died at St. Mary’s Hospital a few hours later. An inquest was conducted with a verdict of accidental death. He was born in Alma on April 10, 1885, and was married in 1903 to Olive WILLIAMS, who is left. For many years he lived in Kinmundy, moving to Centralia in 1926, where he served as circulation manager for the Centralia newspaper. He was active in war work and was widely known for his hobby of creating unusual articles from cast away materials. For 2 years before the war he served with the Salem Republican as circulation manager. He was a member of the Salem Knights of Pythias. In addition to his wife, he leaves 4 sons, Walter and Herschel of Centralia; Paul of Chicago; and Kenneth of U.S. Army. Services were held in Centralia with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Relatives have received word of the marriage of Miss Catherine DOWNEY, of Buffalo, N.Y., and Captain Rex McCARTY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall McCARTY, Iola, and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. J.C. McCARTY, residing east of this city, which occurred in Buffalo, Nov. 10. Rex is a Captain in the Air Corps. Rex graduated from High School here.

- Wilson School: M. Sgt. Chas. KLINE is now at home and has received his discharge from the army. "Welcome Home, Charles."

- Prairie Grove: A kitchen shower was given Tuesday in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ed HAWKEY, for their daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Frank DIETRICH. Several nice gifts were received.

- Kenneth HANBAUM, who is serving with the U.S. Navy, is enjoying leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Earnest HANBAUM and family.

- Swift News: Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT visited Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT.

- Swift News: Mr. and Mrs. Merle JONES and daughter, Betty, were callers at the Frank GARRETT home, Monday.

- Shriver School: Mrs. Maggie KLINE attended the funeral of her neighbor, Mr. C.B. HARVEY in Centralia, Saturday.

- Meacham: Mrs. M.A. TRIPP of Fergus Falls, Minn, Mr. and Mrs. Emery TENDLY and Mrs. Cecil BRACKEN of Effingham, called on Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL, Thursday., and Mr. and Mrs. HARRELL accompanied them to call on Mrs. Jennie JAHRAUS in the Lone Grove neighborhood.

- East Zion: Lt. Ancel ARNOLD spent over the weekend with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hobart ARNOLD.

- Omega: Glen SCHOOLEY has received his discharge from the army and is now at home with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ray SCHOOLEY.

- PFC Edward ESSARY returned Saturday to Camp Pickett, VA., after spending a 15 day furlough here with his wife and daughter and the C.G. JACKSON family.

Nov. 22, 1945:

- Lt. Col. John A. BROOM, Jr., paid our office a visit this past week and stated that he was enjoying a 45 day leave with his wife and 2 sons, Johnny Roy, 5, and Bobbie, 3, who have been making their home in Decatur with her parents, and with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John A. BROOM, Sr., of Alma. Col. BROOM received his commission in the reserve army as a 2nd Lieut., Sept. 8, 1932, following his graduation from the University of Illinois the June previous. He was promoted to 1st Lieut. Feb. 16, 1936; Captain, May 29, 1941; Major Oct. 10, 1942; Lieut. Colonel, Nov. 17, 1944. His first commissions were in the Infantry but he later transferred to the Air Corps. Col. BROOM was called to active duty Nov. 10, 1940, and shipped overseas in 1942, landing in Algeria and was stationed in Oran and Constantine later going into Tunisia where he was stationed in Bizerte. From there he went to Italy and was stationed in Naples, Grossetto, Pisa, and Florence. His next move was into Southern France where he was stationed near Marseilles. He was Service Group Executive Officer for the 12th Air Force. Col. BROOM wears the American Theater Ribbon and the African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 5 stars, representing the Naples Foggia Campaign, the Rome-Arno Campaign, Southern France, Rhineland, and North Apennines. Col. BROOM will report to Greenboro, N.C. on Dec. 2 for re-assignment. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Charles L. DOOLEN, ARM3c, left last Wednesday for St. Louis after spending a leave here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN and daughter, Lela Mae. He was assigned to the Seattle Navy Air Base, the same base where his brother, Benny, is stationed. Naturally, he looked up Benny upon his arrival there and this was the first reunion of these brothers for 3 years.

- Cpl. Donald PARRISH, son of Mrs. Eva PARRISH, arrived home Nov. 17 to spend a few days with his mother before going to Sterling, Ill., where he will accept the position he left when he entered the service. Cpl. PARRISH was discharged Nov. 17, from Ft. Sheridan. Donald entered the service March 31, 1945 landing in India, where he was stationed until his return home. He was a ground mechanic with the Air Corps. He started home Oct. 27, and landed in New York, Nov. 9. Cpl. PARRISH wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 1 star, representing the Burma Campaign, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, and the Presidential Citation.

- Cpl. Oran McKAY, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.E. McKAY, of this city, arrived home Nov. 9th from Camp Grant, where he had received his discharge the day before. Cpl. McKAY served 3 years in the army and 22 months was spent overseas with the Seventh Division in the Hawaiian, Aleutian, Marshall and Leyte Islands. He arrived home in time to accompany his father and mother to Mt. Carmel to visit his brother, Carl WAGNER, B3c, and family. His brother was home on a 6 day leave and this was the first time they had seen each other in over 3 years.

- Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE, who has been stationed with a Signal Semtice Group in New Guinea for the past 18 months, is enjoying a furlough with his wife and daughter and parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.A. BOONE and other relatives. At the expiration of his leave, he will report to a camp in Texas.

- Miss Josephine JAMES and Earl Stanley PATHEL were married on Nov. 3 in the First Baptist Church of Columbia, S.C. Pvt. Hagood E. JAMES, brother of the bride, and Marvin TAYLOR served as ushers. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C.F. JAMES of Marion. For the past 3 years she has been employed with the Federal Land Bank at Columbia. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Archie PATHEL of Crete, Ill. He recently received his honorable discharge from the army, after having served 17 months in the European Theater of Operations with the 30th Division. The couple will reside in Crete, Ill., where the groom is employed. Mr. PATHEL is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Harve BRANSON of this city.

- Jimmie, the 12 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall WILLIAMS, was painfully injured playing basketball, Monday. He was taken to Salem Hospital where an x-ray showed his right arm fractured and the left arm badly sprained.

- Sgt. Marvin GARRETT home: Sgt. Marvin GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT, arrived home Saturday evening after receiving his discharge from Chanute Field that morning. Sgt. GARRETT entered the service July 21, 1942. He was trained as an aerial engineer in schools in Florida and the west coast. Although he was stationed along the west coast, he made several trips aboard a C-54 to the Southwest Pacific. Sgt. GARRETT wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations Ribbon with 4 stars representing the battles of Leyte, Okinaw, Luzon, and Japan, and the Victory Ribbon. He was discharged with a total of 61 points. After a few days with homefolks, Jack, as we all know him, will return to his old job in Sterling, Ill.

- Harry H. MAXEY, of Salem, is confined to his bed, the result of a heart attack which occurred Saturday. He has been in failing health for sometime.

- T4 Noah EAGAN arrived in Kinmundy Nov. 15th to visit his mother, Mrs. Gladys EAGAN, for a few days. He received his discharge from Camp Atterbury, Ind. Nov. 1, and has been spending the intervening time with his wife and son in Sesser in the home of her parents. Noah entered the service in Jan. 1943, and shipped overseas in October 1943, landing in England. From there he went to France, Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany. He started home Oct. 14th and landed at Norfolk, Va. Oct. 7. Sgt. EAGAN wears the Good Conduct Medal, the European Theater of Operations Ribbon with 5 stars, representing the battles of Rhineland, Normandy, Ardennes, Central Europe, and Northern France, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, and the Presidential Ribbon. Noah will return to his former position in Mattoon within a few days. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- PFC Earl SCHWABE received his discharge Saturday at Ft. Sills, Okla. and arrived home the next day to be with his wife and 2 children, Patsy and Keith, and his mother, Mrs. Ora SCHWABE. PFC Earl entered the service March 20, 1943, and took his basic at Jefferson Barracks, Mo. He was assigned to the Air Corps and was sent to Tampa, Fla. From there he went to Ritter Air Base, Ritter, La., then to Camp Polk, La., then Camp Gordon, Ga., then Camp Livingstone, La., then to Will Rogers Field, Oklahoma City, then to Ft. Sills, Okla. After doing a little visiting, Earl will go to Mattoon where he will seek employment in the oil fields.

- Sgt. Robert HANNA arrived here Nov. 6th where he is again at home with his wife and 2 year old son, Bill, and his parents, Dr. and Mrs. H.L. HANNA, after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant on Nov. 1st. Sgt. HANNA entered the service April 9, 1941, and shipped overseas Aug. 25, 1943, landing in Australia. From there he went to Dutch, New Guinea and then to the Philippines. He started home Oct. 2, and landed in San Francisco, Oct. 23. Sgt. HANNA wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the campaigns of New Guinea and the Philippines, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the Victory Ribbon. Bob says he is just so glad to get home again that he doesn’t think he will ever leave again.

- PFC Merle BAYLIS is here visiting with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo BAYLIS, after receiving his discharge at Ft. Knox, Kentucky on Nov. 8th. Merle entered the service Nov. 30, 1942, and shipped overseas July 1, 1944, landing in Italy, where he served with the 7th Replacement Depot Headquarters Co. in Italy, and worked with the 1379th Engineers Pet. Distributing company in France. Merle wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater of Operations Ribbon, the European-African-Middles Eastern Theater of Operations Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the battles of Appennines and Rhineland. After Merle has finished with his visiting, he will return to his old job in Sterling, Ill.

- Omega: Mr. and Mrs. Merle WALKINGTON were called to Michigan last week to attend the funeral of his uncle, Aaron WALKINGTON.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. John BLANKENSHIP and Mrs. Mae SIMCOX of Patoka, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. ARNOLD and Mr. and Mrs. Eli GREEN and sons, Larry and Billy, spent Sunday in Patoka with Mrs. Pearl HUDSPETH and daughters, Melinda and Barbara, and helped celebrate Mrs. HUDSPETH’s birthday.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. John CHANCE and Mr. Chas. ARNOLD attended a memorial at the Gym in Patoka for Sgt. Paul SPURGEON.

- East Zion: The Club met with Mrs. Florence BASSETT, Wednesday. The day was spent quilting and a delicious dinner was served to all.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Otis SEE of Monmouth, Ill. and Mrs. C.D. BRASEL of Hoopeston, Ill. spent Friday night with Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL on their return home from attending the funeral services held in St. Louis for their brother-in-law, Mr. F.C. LAMMERSECH, the husband of the former Miss Winifred SEE.

- Miletus: Sgt. George E. BUTTS, who is home from the Philippines, and is spending a 45 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Pete BUTTS, and other relatives. He will report to camp in Texas after his 15 day furlough is up.

- Swift School: Sgt. Guin VALLOW of Battle Creek, Mich., spent Saturday at the Frank JONES home and spent the day hunting.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT called on Mr. and Mrs. Frank JONES, Sunday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Marvin CONANT visited in Kinmundy Sunday with their daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Harold ROBB and daughter, Sharon. Sharon and Velma Jean have the flu.

- Shriver School: A surprise birthday dinner was given for Sterling SULLIVAN at his home Saturday. He received many presents from friends and neighbors attending. Pinochle, games and singing were enjoyed. A list of those attending was included.

- Mrs. W.F. ROBB returned home Thursday after a few days spent in the home of her daughter and family, Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER of Sumner. Dale is improving nicely.

- S. Sgt. and Mrs. Dwight HANNA and daughter, Jan, of El Paso, Texas, has been here for the past 10 days visiting with his parents, Dr. and Mrs. H.L. HANNA. Sgt. HANNA will return to his camp Friday where he expects to receive his discharge about Dec. 1.

- Ralph Edgar MORRIS, Musician 2c, and his wife of Marshall, while on their honeymoon, spent Thursday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ray GEORGE and daughter, Helen. A list of those attending was included.

Nov. 29, 1945:

- T4 Christy GENTRY, son of Mr. and Mrs. S.W. GENTRY, arrived home Nov. 10, after receiving his discharge at Ft. Sheridan on Nov. 18th. He was the only member of the famous 33rd Division from Kinmundy to receive his discharge at Fort Sheridan. Christy entered the service April 16, 1941, and shipped overseas July 8, 1943, landing in Hawaii. From there he went to New Guinea, then to the Netherlands East Indies, then to Luzon, then to Japan. He started home Oct. 30, and landed in Van Couver, Nov. 11. Sgt. GENTRY wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, The Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the Luzon and New Guinea Campaigns, and the Unit Citation. As to his future, Christy says in all probability, he will go on to school. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Sgt. John W. McCULLEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thurman McCULLEY arrived home Nov. 21st after receiving his discharge at Jefferson Barracks the day previous. Sgt. John was a member of the famous 33rd Division. Sgt. John entered the service April 17, 1941, and shipped overseas June 19, 1943, landing in Hawaii. From there he went to Japan. He started home Oct. 30, and landed in Portland, Oregon, Nov. 11. Sgt. McCULLEY wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 starts, representing the New Guinea and Luzon Campaigns. As to John’s future, he says for the present he is just going all the milk and eat all the fried chicken and eggs he possibly can hold. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- PFC Merle BAYLIS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo BAYLIS, who received his discharge Nov. 8th, at Fort Knox, Ky. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Miss Juanita BAILEY, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C.E. BAILEY and Howard L. ROBB were married Nov. 19 in Mt. Vernon. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Harold ROBB and Lloyd BAILEY. The bride is a graduate of our local high school with the class of ‘41 and for the past 3˝ years, has held a responsible position in Kankakee. The groom is a graduate of the local high school with the class of ‘39 and was discharged from the army on Nov. 2, after receiving 28 months overseas. The couple will make their home in Kinmundy.

- Ray INGRAM, PhM1c, arrived here Tuesday night and is now a happy ex-sailor, visiting with his wife and small daughter, Lynda Rae, in the Frank JONES home west of town. He is also visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM. He had received his discharge from the Navy on Tuesday at Great Lakes. Ray entered the service Sept. 4, 1942, and spent 18 months in North Africa. He returned home in Oct. 1944, and spent a very enjoyable 30 day leave with his wife and other relatives. On Nov. 22, 1944, he was assigned to the Mine Sweeper WMS 458, which floated in the Southwest Pacific Theater. He is entitled to wear the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Medal, The American Theater Ribbon, The Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon, and the African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon. As to his future, Ray says his old job is waiting for him in Beardstown, but whether he wants to accept it, he hasn’t yet decided. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Miss Mary BRASEL, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edd BRASEL, became the bride of Edward HALLER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest HALLER of Highland, at the Lutheran Evangelical Church at Highland. Mrs. Martha STOCKER, twin sister of the bride, was matron of honor, and the groom was attended by Vernon STOCKER. The bride graduated from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of 1934. For the last 8 years, she has been employed at the Brown Shoe Factory in Salem. The groom attended Highland School. He received his discharge from the Army Sept. 19 after serving 43 months, 36 of which were spent overseas. Following the ceremony, turkey supper was served the bridal party and the immediate family at the home of the bride’s sister, Mr. and Mrs. Cliff OLDEN. The couple will reside in East St. Louis, where the groom is employed at the Highland Dairy Farms.

- Sgt. Marvin GARRETT, son of Mr. and Mrs. B.O. GARRETT, who arrived home Nov. 17, after receiving his discharge from the Army Air Corps at Chanute Field that day. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Robert MAHAN, Lt. (jg), son of Mr. and Mrs. J.R. MAHAN, arrived home Nov. 22 on a 30 day leave. Needless to say that he is enjoying himself as this is his first trip home in 18 months. Bob enlisted in the Navy July 1, 1943 and was stationed at the University of Illinois. On Jan. 1, 1944, he entered Annapolis Naval Academy and was commissioned an Ensign, April 26, 1944. On May 9th following, he was assigned to and went aboard the USS Richmond. From then on, the Richmond sailed in the Northern Pacific. After V-J Day, this ship accepted the surrender of the Ominato Naval Base in Northern Honshu, after which she occupied the base. This ship left the Japanese water and steamed homeward and reached Miami, where she was anchored for Navy Day, Oct. 27th. She then sailed up to Philadelphia where she is to be de-commissioned. On Nov. 1st, Bob received his promotion (junior grade). He wears the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 1 star, representing the Okhotsk Sea-Kurile Islands Campaign. After the expiration of his leave, he will report to Great Lakes for reassignment. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- PFC Harold B. JONES, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank JONES, residing northwest of this city and a member of the famous 33rd Division, arrived home Tuesday afternoon after receiving his discharge at Jefferson Barracks the same day. Harold entered the service April 16, 1941, but on account of age was released on Nov. 10, 1941. He was recalled to active duty Feb. 11, 1942 and shipped overseas June 16, 1943, landing in Hawaii. From there he went to New Guinea, then to Morotai, Luzon and finally to Japan. He started home Oct. 30, landing in Portland, Nov. 11th. PFC JONES wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the American Defense Ribbon and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the campaigns of New Guinea and Luzon. As to his future, Harold says he had that planned at the time he went into the service. He will just take up farming where he left off. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Omega: Robert FULFER of the army is home on furlough and is visiting here and in Siloam Orchard District.

- Omega: Albert CORRELL, who has been discharged from the army is here on furlough. He has enlisted in the army for another year.

- Swift School: Mrs. Harold ROBB and daughter, Sharon, are recuperating in the home of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin CONANT.

- Brown: Several from this vicinity attended the funeral of Mrs. Mary ALDERSON of Salem, Saturday.

- Shriver School: Marvin DACE, who is stationed in New York, and wife of Calif., visited over Thanksgiving with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy SULLIVAN and family. Other guests were Mr. and Mrs. William DACE and family of Salem.

- Meadow Branch: PFC Robert G. MARSHALL of Ft. Ord, Calif., has been promoted to Corp.

- Meadow Branch: Sgt. John Wm. McCULLEY arrived home one day last week in time for Thanksgiving. We are glad he is back again, and will be glad when all the boys are marching home.

- Mr. and Mrs. Bryan PITTS entertained the following relatives to dinner Sunday in honor of the birthdays of Mr. and Mrs. C.A. BOONE and Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE, who is home on furlough: Mr. and Mrs. Alex HAMILTON, Iuka; Mr. and Mrs. Steve STOKELY and family, Salem; Cpl. Thomas A. BOONE, wife and daughter, Vandalia; Mrs. Guy PERRY and sons, and Mr. and Mrs. C.A. BOONE.

- Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD, Ruby, D.A. ARNOLD, Miss Beulah DISS, and Mr. and Mrs. Beryl DISS and son were supper guests Sunday evening in the Orville DISS home.

- Mr. and Mrs. Francis HAMMER and Barbara Kaye had as their guests on Thanksgiving Day, Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER, Donn and Janet of Sumner, and Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd HAMMER.

- Cpl. Albert D. CORRELL and wife, who have been stationed at Monroe, La., are home on a 60 day furlough visiting relatives and friends in this vicinity. He has received a discharge and re-enlisted for a short term in the Air Corps.

- Sgt. and Mrs. Arlo LEARY of Pontiac, Ill., have a son, David Arlo, born Nov. 19. The mother is formerly Eileen LACEY, and is granddaughter of Mrs. Arminda BROWN, and lived in Kinmundy for several years. Sgt. LEARY is stationed at Long Beach, Calif.

- On Nov. 21, a party was enjoyed at our school when Mrs. Harley HAYES entertained 26 boys and girls in honor of her son, Gerald’s 6th birthday.

- Mrs. Elno WILLIAMS and family of Rock Falls, Ill. spent Monday with Mrs. Icy GARRETT.

Dec. 6, 1945:

- PFC Charles JASPER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chris JASPER, arrived home Nov. 25 after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant the same day. Charles entered the service March 12, 1943, and shipped overseas July 31, 1943, landing in India. From there he ‘flew the hump’ into China, where he was stationed until he started home in Sept. After spending 3 weeks on the high seas, he landed in New York, Nov. 21. PFC JASPER wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the Presidential Citation, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 1 star representing the Burma Campaign. We are mighty glad to see Charles home again, this being his first trip home since he entered the service. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Mr. and Mrs. J.R. MAHAN entertained to dinner Sunday in honor of their son, Lt. (jg) Robert MAHAN. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. John MAHAN, Mr. and Mrs. Charlie WITWER, and Mr. and Mrs. George MOTCH, of Centralia.

- Mr. and Mrs. Theodore MILLER received an invitation to the wedding of their granddaughter, Miss Julia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. MILLER, which will take place in the Christian Church in Lincoln on Dec. 7.

- Cpl. Ralph JENKINS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben JENKINS, arrived home Nov. 28 after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant that same day. Ralph entered the service Oct. 20, 1942, and shipped overseas Feb. 10, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. He started home Nov. 11, landing in Boston, Nov. 23. Cpl. JENKINS wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Bronze Star Medal and the European Theater Ribbon with 5 stars representing the battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Central Germany, and Ardennes. As to his future, Ralph says after he gets filled up on his mother’s cooking, he will be in the market for a good job. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Charlie O. MULVANEY died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Myrtle PERRY, Nov. 30, after suffering from heart trouble for a number of years. He was 60 years, 2 months, and 14 days. Services were held from the Meacham Baptist Church with interment in Elder Cemetery.

- George W. ELDER, son of John Boyd and Bridget TOOLEN ELDER, was born Aug. 5, 1858 on a farm near Kinmundy, and died in Salem Memorial Hospital on Nov. 25, 1945, following a long illness. He spent his boyhood days here, attending school. When a lad of 14 or 15, he moved with his parents into Kinmundy, where he finished his common school education. Soon after finishing school, he went to Arkansas, near Little Rock, where he found employment in a drug store. Later he went to Topeka, Kansas where he engaged in the grocery business. He eventually sold this and went on West, stopping with an uncle, a Mormon preacher, with whom he engaged in business. Mr. ELDER returned to Kinmundy in about 1885. Selling groceries being his favorite occupation, he obtained the agency for Sprague Warner & Co., Wholesale Groceries. This career he followed 35 years, working for the same company, retiring some 25 years ago. During the years of service for this company, the headquarters for the "Drummers" as they were then called, were in New Harmony, Ind. Of his immediate family of 4 brothers and 4 sisters, all have preceded him in death, but 1 sister, Mrs. Mary MANUEL, who cared for her brother during his illness. Other relatives who with their aunt, mourn his death are: Dorcas, daughter of Mrs. Ann HARVEY, who also helped care for her uncle; Alberta, Frances and Hester, also daughters of Mrs. MANUEL; Mary Lou and Lorainne, daughter of Albert LaPRADE; Georgia, daughter and, Jean, granddaughter of Mrs. Kate LARKIN; Helen, Norma and Marilyn, daughters of Arno and Dorcas MILLER; Carolyn Ann, daughter of William and Helen HOUSE. Nephews: Charles LARKIN and Arthur, son of Charles and Ruth LARKIN.

- Wilson School: Mr. and Mrs. Emil MEYER and Mr. and Mrs. Marion SHUFELDT and sons were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. Chris MEYER, helping Chris celebrate his birthday.

- Omega: Mr. and Mrs. Glen SCHOOLEY were charivaried one night last week at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ray SCHOOLEY.

- Shriver School: Adolph TOCKSTEIN, who has recently returned from overseas, and wife are visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy SULLIVAN.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Tom HELPINGSTINE entertained with a dinner Sunday the following people in honor of their nephew, Sgt. Otto HELPINGSTINE; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. HELPINGSTINE, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. HELPINGSTINE and sons, Ray and Otto, Mrs. Walter MILLER and daughter, Diana, Mrs. Paul YANDELL and son, John, of Centralia, and Mr. and Mrs. Ralph HELPINGSTINE and family of Salem.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB ate dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Carol GARRETT.

- Mr. and Mrs. L.J. HAMMER were weekend guests in the home of their son and family, Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER at Sumner, Ill.

- Brown: Amos WILCOXEN and wife received word from their son, Cecil that he landed in the states and hoped to be home soon.

- G.L. WILSON, 80, died Nov. 27 in Webster City, Iowa after an illness of 4 months. Services were held in Foster Funeral Home with interment in Graceland Cemetery. George LaFayette, son of William and Mary WILSON, was born Jan. 5, 1865 on a farm in Marion Co. On April 17, 1892 he married Nannie BOWEN at Salem, Ill., and farmed there until 1896, when he came to Iowa, residing on a farm in Adair Co. for 16 years, returning to Illinois for 2 years and back to Hamilton Co. In 1919 he moved to Webster City. He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 daughter and 1 son. He is survived by his wife, 7 sons and 2 daughters: Afton, Archie, and Claude, all of Webster City; Mrs. Vera KNAPP of Webster City; Mrs. Earl KENDALL of Boone; Harley of Emmetsburge; and George, Ray and Julius all of Waterloo. He was a former resident of Kinmundy, being a brother to the late Alice EAGAN, and brother-in-law of Will EAGAN.

Dec. 13, 1945:

- Norman SULLIVAN, age 7, son of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. SULLIVAN, residing on the Newell farm in the Shriver School neighborhood, was seriously wounded yesterday evening about 4:30 while on his way home from school. He and 2 companions (whose names we did not learn) were walking in the road when all of a sudden the saw Norman collapse. They summoned aid and Norman was taken to his home and then rushed to the Salem Hospital. An examination revealed that a .22 rifle bullet had entered his back and came out his chest, just missing the heart. The story, as relayed to us, states that his companions heard no gunfire and just who fired the rifle has not be ascertained as yet. It is presumed that someone close as hunting rabbits and a stray shot hit the boy.

- Emmerson JONES, Seaman 1st class, arrived here Saturday evening to greet his wife and children and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom JONES and family. He received his discharge at Great Lakes that day and road the Panama Limited to Centralia because he said, he wanted to travel in style for once in his life. Emmerson entered the service Sept. 5, 1943, and received his boot training at Farragut, Idaho He was assigned to and went aboard the USS Pennsylvania Jan. 5, 1944. Since then, he spent most of his time in the Southwest Pacific. His ship returned to the states last March and he was granted a 27 day leave with home folks. After re-boarding his ship, he again sailed to the Southwest Pacific, where he remained until coming home. EMMERSON wears the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Navy Unit Accommodation Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 5 stars, representing the campaigns of the Marshall Islands, Guam, Saipan, Pelieu, and a Surface Engagement and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the campaigns of Luzon and Leyte. Mr. and Mrs. JONES have 2 children, Linda Kay, 4, and Donna Louise, 2. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- 1st Lt. Lyle GREEN, son of W.L. GREEN, residing west of this city, and wife arrived here Nov. 29, to visit home folks. Lyle entered the service March 14, 1943, and received his commission as a First Lieut. in the Air Corps. He shipped overseas Oct. 5, 1944, landing in Scotland. Here he was assigned to the Ferry Command, flying cargo and passengers. He started home Oct. 5, 1945, and landed Oct. 13, at Morrison Field, West Palm Beach, Fla. From there he was sent to Ft. Lewis, Wash., where he received his discharge on Nov. 8. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- PFC Fred BOYD arrived home Saturday to again be with his family and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD. He received his discharge at Camp Grant the day previous. PFC Fred entered the service April 17, 1944, and was assigned to the Enlisted Transport Command with headquarters at New York. He made 3 round trips to Europe and back. PFC Fred wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Ribbon, the European Theater Ribbon, and the Unit Citation. Mr. and Mrs. BOYD have 4 boys: Jack, 10; Bill, 8; Richard, 6; and Tom, 3.

- Cpl. Richard JONES, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom JONES arrived home Dec. 11, after receiving his discharge at Chanute Field the same day. Richard entered the service, Nov. 3, 1942, and was assigned to the Air Corps as a ground mechanic, but was later transferred to the Cadet Training Corps., in which he was being trained as a pilot. He was stationed at San Marcos, Texas. Cpl. JONES wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, and the American Theater Ribbon. As to his future, Richard says he would like to work a short time and then go on to school.

- Charley A. MULVANEY, son of Wesley H. and Sarah WILSON MULVANEY, was born near Kinmundy, Sept. 16, 1885, and died Nov. 30, 1945. On Dec. 12, 1926, he married Edna COX, who preceded him in death several years ago. They had 4 children: Howard, Mary, Dora, and George. When this mother died, George was just 2 weeks old, and was taken into the home of his aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Robert OUTHOUSE, who reared him as their own. Charley was converted in 1923 and became a member of the Meacham Baptist Church. Besides his children, he leaves 5 sisters: Mrs. Myrtle PERRY, Mrs. Lillian YATES, Mrs. Belle OUTHOUSE of Kinmundy; Mrs. Lucy THOMPSON of Farina; and Mrs. Nellie ALDERSON of Salem; 3 brothers, Ervin of Ivesdale; Ray of Kinmundy; and Edd of Monticello; 1 aunt, Malissie Ray; and 1 brother-in-law, Earl COX of Decatur. One sister, Edith, preceded him in death, 40 years ago. His father died 9 years ago, and 20 months ago he lost his mother. Services were held from Meacham Baptist Church with interment in Elder Cemetery.

- Cpl. and Mrs. Charles JOHNSON arrived here Dec. 6th to visit their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank JOHNSON and family and their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George LENHART. Cpl. JOHNSON received his discharge Nov. 24 at Camp Grant. Since that time, he has been visiting with his wife in Chicago. Charles entered the service Feb. 20, 1943, and shipped overseas Feb. 11, 1944, landing in Hawaii, later going on to Iwa Jima, where he was stationed. He started home Nov. 3, and landed near San Francisco, Nov. 17. Cpl. JOHNSON wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the campaigns of Iwa Jima and the Marriannas. After he has concluded his visit with homefolks, he will return to Chicago where he will again take up his work with the Carnegie-Illinois Steel Co.

- Dolph and Myron HAMMER received word last week of the death of their brother, Arthur, which occurred at his home in Hood River, Oregon, Dec. 3. He had been ill for the past several months. He was 57 years old. Services and interment were made at Hood River. Besides his wife, he leaves: 3 children, all married and living in and near Hood River; 7 brothers: Dolph and Myron of Kinmundy; Lon of Decatur; Forrest of Sioux City, Iowa; John, Fred, and William of South Bend, Ind.; and 1 sister, Mrs. Bessie JACOBSON, of Mt. Vernon.

- Hilary Lafayette ADAMS, son of Anna and John ADAMS, was born Sept. 17, 1858, and died Dec. 3, 1945. He married Sept. 2, 1880 to Miss Emma K. DANIELS, and they had 3 children: Edward Owen ADAMS of Kinmundy; Ernest Andrew ADAMS of Edwardsville; and Ethel L. SMITH of Farina. Mr. ADAMS was born and lived most of his life in Marion Co. He was a member of the Church of Christ. He leaves his wife; 3 children; faithful nephew, Cecil JAMISON, who cared for him during his later years; 10 grandchildren, and a host of great-grandchildren. Services were held at the Shiloh Church in Omega twp. with interment in Phillips Cemetery.

- Lt. Raymond ATKINS, son of Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS, arrived home Dec. 11 after receiving his discharge at Fort Sills, Okla., on Dec. 9th. Lt. ATKINS entered the service June 23, 1942, and was commissioned Jan. 14, 1943. The following June, he was advanced to the rank of 1st Lieut. He shipped overseas in March 1944, landing in Oran, Africa. From there, he went to Italy where he was stationed until August 1st, when he sailed for home. Upon his arrival in the states, he was granted a 30 day leave which was spent here with his mother. After his leave expired, he reported for duty at Ft. Sills, Okla., where he was stationed until receiving his discharge. Lt. ATKINS was a member of the 361st Combat Team, a part of the 91st Division. He wears the Middle European and Eastern Theater Ribbon with 3 stars representing the Rome-Arno, Northern Apennines and Po Valley Campaigns, the American Theater Ribbon, and the Victory Ribbon.

- Pvt. James EAGAN arrived home Dec. 3, where he is now spending some very enjoyable time with his wife and 2 small children. Also, his mother, Mrs. Gladys EAGAN. James entered the service Sept. 26, 1943 and shipped overseas March 1, 1944, landing in Casa Blanca. From there he went to Oran and then to France, where he was stationed for several months, working on a pipe line. He started home Nov. 19 and landed in Boston, Nov. 30. He received his discharge at Camp Grant, Dec. 2. Pvt. EAGAN wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the Unit Citation, and the European Theater Ribbon with 2 stars, representing the campaigns of Southern France and the Rhineland. James says he intends to return to his old job in the oil fields. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- T4 Frank BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD, arrived home Dec. 10 after receiving his discharge at at Camp Grant the day previous. Frank entered the service June 18, 1941 and shipped overseas Sept. 20, 1944, landing in England. From there he went to France, then to Alsace, and then into Germany. He started home Nov. 21, and landed in New York, Dec. 1. Cpl. Frank wears the American Defense Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the European Theater Ribbon with 2 stars representing the campaigns of Central Europe and the Rhineland, and the Silver Star, awarded for meritorious service. We are all happy to have Frank back with us and he says he is happy to be back and is very thankful that he reached home in time for the last day of quail season.

- With the 96th Division in the Philippines - Sergeant John D. PURCELL of Alma, Ill., has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal, oldest American military decoration, by Major General J.L. BRADLEY, commanding the 96th Division. A member of Company M, 381st Infantry, Sergeant PURCELL was wounded in action in Okinaw on April 8, 1945. He is now fully recovered and has returned to his unit. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, live in Alma, Ill. He is a graduate of the Salem High School in Salem, Ill. He was engaged in farming before entering the service. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- East Zion: Mrs. Ruth WILLIAMS spent a few days last week in Kinmundy with Mrs. Lura ROBNETT and children.

- Meacham: Virgil HAMPSTEN broke his arm near his shoulder by falling from a wagon a few days ago.

- Meacham: Mrs. Dessie WEAVER and son, Frank, who has recently been discharged from the army, Mrs. Mattie HITT and grandson, Mickey, of Casey, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. William SLANE and family were Sunday dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS.

- Meacham: Mrs. Paul HANNA called on Mr. Edwin HARRELL Wednesday afternoon after school hours.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. A.J. BAYLIS and Merle attended the T.J. BRYANT funeral in Salem Sunday afternoon.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB, son Harold, wife and daughter, were Centralia visitors Tuesday.

- Mr. and Mrs. Fred GAMMON spent the weekend in Greenup with the Lester HOWELL family.

- Mrs. A.J. JACKSON fell Tuesday while visiting in the home of her daughter, Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS, north of town. X-rays showed a compound fracture of her right arm.

- S. Sgt. Benjamin Neil JOHNSON arrived home last night to spend a few days with his mother, Mrs. Pauline JOHNSON. He has been in Chicago attending the funeral of his father-in-law.

- Miss Florence DOOLEN, Mrs. Eugene SHANAFELT and Mr. and Mrs. H.M. FISHER were in Centralia last week attending the mid-winter meeting of the Rebekah District 25 Assembly. A shower of canned fruit and vegetables were given to the Old Folks home at Mattoon and the Children’s home at Lincoln. Salem Degree staff exemplified the work, there being 12 candidates.

- Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN was called to West Frankfort Tuesday on account of the serious illness of her brother-in-law, Floyd CLEM. He died at noon. He was the husband of the former Ferne WILLIAMS, a sister of Mrs. W.R. DOOLEN.

- Mr. and Mrs. J.A. HOLT, Ed JONES, Mr. and Mrs. FISHER, Mesdames Elizabeth ATKINS, Effie ROBB, Annie YOUNG, Paulene JOHNSON, and Miss Pauline BAGOTT were in St. Peter Saturday attending the funeral of Will HARKEY.

Dec. 20, 1945:

- Here’s a nice letter from T4 Floyd JONES, written Dec. 5, in Japan. It is the first letter we have received from this country. He says: Guess it’s about time I dropped you a few lines. I have been receiving your paper for a long time and never have written you. Every time I change addresses I lose out on the paper for awhile. Now I’m in Japan. I really enjoy reading your paper and am glad to hear that some of the boys are getting out. Bud ROBNETT is in Japan too, but he is on Hakkaido quite a distance from me and I am afraid I won’t see him over here unless we moved closer together but I did see someone from Kinmundy in Manila, just before I left. It was Jewell LUTTERAL. We sure were surprised to see each other! I am stationed just a few miles out of Yokahoma and about 20 miles from Tokyo. Have a pretty good set-up here; live in barracks, have lights, running water, stoves and hot showers fixed up, so it’s pretty comfortable. I would certainly hate to live in a tent here; it’s a little cool. Had our first big frost and a little ice this morning, but part of the time it is just cold and rainy. Don’t know if we will have a White Christmas or not. I like the weather here much better than I did in Manila tho, I don’t like hot weather at all. We have our motor pool in an airplane factory and hangar, we just took bull-dozers and pushed the planes, parts and tools out into a big pile. These Japs had some very very good tools to work with, and others weren’t so good. That building sure is a big one; there are many others just as big along the Bay here. Some of them have been hit by bombers and a lot of them are untouched. The Japs are better fixed for transportation than the Filippinoes. Electric trains and street cars run all over this place. The Japs have quite a few cars; also, use a lot of three-wheeled motorcycles with a small bed on the back. They use them as a light truck. They even pull trailers behind bicycles and they work one horse to a small wagon, hauling wood, furniture, etc. Of course, there aren’t any water buffalo here, but I’ve seen ordinary cows pulling loads. The Japs carry loads and even babies strapped to their back, while the Filippinoes carried loads on their heads. The most confusing thing I’ve run into was driving on the left side of the road, was mighty awkward at first, but I guess the Americans are fast to catch on to something like that. I haven’t seen a wreck yet, caused by some one driving on the wrong side of the road. I went into Tokyo yesterday on the train. The trains stop right by the barracks so it’s pretty handy. We can ride any train for nothing - cheap enough, but you almost earn your ride before you get there. I wouldn’t have believed it was possible to put so many people on one train, if I hadn’t seen it myself. Tokyo is a large place alright. I know I didn’t see but a small part of it yesterday. There are some beautiful buildings there, looking at some parts of Tokyo you wouldn’t know but what it was some city in the states. I saw the building in which Gen. MACARTHUR lives and went to the main entrance of the Imperial Palace, but of course, we couldn’t get into the grounds. There’s some beautiful scenery around there - large gravel drives and huge parks filled with trees and shrubs. I haven’t told you about the other parts of Tokyo and Yokahoma, though, they have been completely flattened by bombing. We certainly did some precision bombing for one block may be blown up and the next block hasn’t been touched hardly. The Japs have cleaned most of the ruins up and planted some of the ground to garden. I haven’t seen any large fields, it’s all just little patches, but about all they grow around here is vegetables, anyway. They have even dug places out in the hills, made them into small flat places and cultivate that; it is something like terracing. Well, I’m going to have to close for now. Say, don’t kill all the quail this year! Maybe I will get a chance at them next season. Here’s a Merry Christmas to all.

- E.R. WAGNER, B.M. 2c, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.E. McKAY, of this city, arrived home Dec. 11 from the U.S. Naval Personnel Separation Center at Norman, Okla., where he received his honorable discharge. WAGNER was in the service 3 years, 11 months; 3 years of this time was spent overseas. He served in both theaters of war, making the invasion at Morocco, Africa, Nov. 8, 1942; also, in the South Pacific, Australia, New Hererbes, New Caladonia, Bara Bara, New Georgia, Solomons, and New Guinea. He was on the Amphibious Transport USS Henry T. ALLEN, making 6 invasions. WAGNER, BM 2c, wife and baby are making their home in Kinmundy for present.

- We received a short note from Joseph LOVETT, a former resident of this community, telling us that he was now a civilian first class. Joe enlisted in the Coast Guard in July 1942 and received his discharge Dec. 8. He saw duty along the east coast for quite some time and then went to the southwest Pacific. Joe wears the American Theater Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon with 1 star, denoting that he was overseas when the war ended, the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon with 1 star and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 star. Joe is now at home in Keller, Va., where he is going to open a grocery store.

- Eugene KEEN had a narrow escape last Saturday afternoon when his car stalled in the path of I.C. freight train at CRAIG’s crossing. He saw the on-coming train and had plenty of time to carry his little grandchild, who was riding with him, to safety. The car was dragged about 50 feet before the train stopped. The car was damaged considerably but we know that Mr. KEEN is happy because he did not get injured himself, or maybe killed.

- Miss Eva SHEPARD, a former resident of this city, died at her home in Chicago, Sunday, after suffering a stroke of apoplexy a week previous. Services were held Dec. 18 in Chicago. The body was cremated and the ashes will be placed on the family lot in Evergreen Cemetery in this city. Miss SHEPARD had several friends here among the older citizens.

- Cpl. Charles JOHNSON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank JOHNSON, who received his discharge Nov. 24th, after serving 12 months in the Southwest Pacific Theater. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Cpl. Grover VETETO arrived home Dec. 9 after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant the day previous and is again with his wife and son. Cpl. VETETO entered the service Jan. 19, 1944, and shipped overseas July 1, 1945, landing at Naples, Italy. On Sept. 16, 1944, during the Po Valley Campaign, he was wounded in action and was hospitalized for 3 months. After returning to the service, he was assigned as a medic to a hospital where he remained until the hospital was closed. He was then assigned as a medic in the Air Corps and flew from Italy to Switzerland and India, doing evacuation work. He started home Nov. 26, landing in New Jersey, Dec. 1. Cpl. VETETO, wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, Combat Medic Badge, the Air Medal, the Purple Heart, and the European Theater Ribbon with 4 stars representing the campaigns of North Africa, Po Valley, the Appinnines and the Rome-Arno. As to his future, Grover would like to enter business for himself in the near future. (A picture was included.)

- Louis Ernst MUEHLHAUSEN, son of William E. and Anna GROVESH MUEHLHAUSEN, was born in St. Louis, Mo., on April 15, 1877. He was educated in the St. Louis Schools and in young manhood, moved with his parents to a farm in Clay County near Xenia. On Dec. 26, 1903, he was married to Ada YOUNG of Iuka, Ill., and they had 4 children: Floyd, Louis Jr., Helen and Arthur. Floyd preceded him in death. For a number of years he was engaged in farming, but the past 14 years he had been in the employ of the Alton Vinegar Co. He was twice elected mayor of Alma and was serving in that capacity at the time of his death. He was a member of the Methodist Church at Alma. Surviving are his wife; a daughter, Mrs. Helen WILLIAMS; and a son, Arthur of Alma; a son-in-law, Russell WILLIAMS of Alma; and a daughter-in-law, Mrs. Louis MUEHLHAUSEN of Chicago; 6 grandchildren, Louis Albert, Frank, Robert, Carol and Richard MUEHLHAUSEN of Chicago; and Herbert WILLIAMS of Alma; and 2 brothers, William MUEHLHAUSEN of Lincoln, Neb., and J.R. MUEHLHAUSEN of Xenia, Ill.

- T4 Frank BOYD, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD, who was discharged Dec. 9. He served in the European Theater and served 14 months overseas. He received the Silver Star for meritorious service. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Charles SEE, Sea Cook, 2nd class, arrived home Dec. 8 after receiving his discharge that same day at Lambert Field, St. Louis. He is now enjoying his visit with his mother, Mrs. Margaret GRAY. Charles entered the Navy June 12, 1942, and received his boot training at Great Lakes. After finishing this training, he was assigned as a cook in the galley at the Jacksonville (Fla.) Air Station. On March 2, 1945, he was assigned to and went aboard the USS Wovoka, where he had complete charge of the commissary on the ship. Charles wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, and the Victory Ribbon. As to the future, Charles says he is not definitely decided. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- According to reports, Norman SULLIVAN, who was seriously wounded by a bullet last week, is still improving in the Salem Hospital and expects to be taken home the latter part of this week.

- PFC Harold BUTTS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS, arrived home Dec. 8, after receiving his discharge the same day at Camp Grant. Harold entered the service Feb. 17, 1943, and shipped overseas Aug. 20, 1943, landing in Oran Africa. From there he went to England, then France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and then back to France. He started home Nov. 20, and landed at Boston on Dec. 1. PFC Harold wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon and the European Theater Ribbon with 3 stars representing the campaigns of Central Europe, Ardennes and Rhineland. Harold and his father, who is a veteran of World War I, are very busily engaged in conversation now as they both traveled some over the same territory.

- PFC Fred BOYD, local rural mail carrier, who was discharged Dec. 7th. PFC Boyd was in the Enlisted Transport Command and made 3 round trips to Europe. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Miletus: PFC James BOSTON arrived home last week with an honorable discharge, having served over 3 years with the U.S. Army. He had been stationed at Ft. Lewis, Wash., and served as a cook.

- Miletus: About 100 friends and relatives gathered at the Ray MULVANEY home Monday of last week for a triple charivari and shower. One daughter, Louise, was married in the home on Friday the week previous, and the other daughter, Margaret, in Kentucky on Saturday evening, and their cousin, Zetta, 2 weeks before. The couples are: Mr. and Mrs. Leslie FLICK, Mr. and Mrs. Earl GAINES, and Mr. and Mrs. Glenn SCHOOLEY. The visiting ladies served sandwiches and coffee and the brides and groom treated with candy and cigars. These lucky young men are all discharged veterans.

- Prairie Grove: Oran HANBAUM visited in Chicago last week taking his examination for the Army.

- Mr. and Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC have received word from their son, Junior, stating that he has landed in the states and will soon be discharged.

- Swift School: Pvt. Eli CONANT arrived home Saturday morning to spend his Christmas furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin CONANT and family.

- Omega: Clyde LAMPKIN of Possum Trot District received word Sunday that his father had died in St. Louis.

- Omega: "Hop" BRIMBERRY is home on furlough and was in Omega Monday.

- Pleasant Grove: Mrs. Joe MEDLEY has received word from her husband stating that he was in California, and she is expecting him home anytime.

- In Memory of our husband and son, Pvt. Wilbur A. BROOM, who was killed in action in Luxembourg on Dec. 20, 1944.

Dec. 27, 1945:

- The Annual Winter 4-H Club County Achievement Meeting was held at the Salem High School Gymnasium on Dec. 17 with almost 100 members and leaders present. Outstanding State winners of Marion county, also state projects members in the different projects were announced by Fred J. BLACKBURN, County Club Leader: Outstanding Member: Harold BEALS, with a Dairy Production project of the Egyptian Willing Workers Club. Harold has also been an assistant leader in his local club this year, as well as President of the County Federation. Billy FRANCIS, Secretary of the County Federation, was the other outstanding member, with the Beef Cattle Production Project. Francis is a member of Tonti Wildcats Club led by his father, O.K. FRANCIS. Other State Project members announced were Donald BELCHER, Soil Testing; of the Vernon Victory Club; Frank BREDAR, Dairy, of the Tonti Wildcats; George DAVIS, Conway MALAN and James OHL, Swine Projects. These 3 boys are all members of the Patoka Panthers Club led by Jake DAVIS. Rose Marie FREDERICH, Home Ground Beautification, member of the Egyptian Willing Workers Club; Dorene PARKINSON and Glenda PARKINSON, Poultry, members of the Willing Workers Club; Donald SHANAFELT, Beef; Egyptian Willing Workers Club; Bertha SNIDER, Garden, Vernon Victory Club. In the Home Economics Club, Mrs. Mildred D. HANNA, leader of the Future Homemakers Club in Kinmundy twp., established a records when all 7 members of her club received state project honors. These girls: Helen BASSETT, Mary Evelyn BASSETT, Lillian BUNDY, Norma Mae GARRETT, Lila Pauline GARRETT, Wyona HANNA, and Virginia Lee HELPINGSTINE. According to these girl’s records, they canned 2078 quarts of fruits and vegetables, and 82 gallons of food, brined. Mrs. HANNA has been the leader of this club 2 years and these girls have all had 2 years club work except Lillian BUNDY, who had only a year’s worth. Other girls who won state project honors are Lois FELTZ, Nancy FOLTS and Wilma PUGH of the Save and Sew Club at Patoka led by Mrs. Bruce PUGH, Doris ROSE SMITH, member of the Shriver Sewing Sircle Club, led by Mrs. Hazel MAXEY; Edith PHILLIPS and Jo Ann WHITECHURCH of Wide Awake Club, led by Mrs. Helen PHILLIPS; Genevieve WARD, Jane WEBB, and Virginia WERNSMAN, members of the girls Vernon Victory Club led by Mrs. Claud BETTS.

- PFC Harold BUTTS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben BUTTS, who received his discharge, Dec. 8. He served in the European Theater. (A picture accompanied this article.)

- Miss Kathleen BROWN, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E.E. BROWN, of this city, became the bride of Dwight C. DAY of Alma on Dec. 21, by the pastor of the local Methodist Church before the fireplace in the bride’s home. The groom is home on leave after serving 16 months on Guam. The attendants were Miss Virginia BROWN, sister of the bride, and Ralph DAY, brother of the groom. Both the bride and groom are graduates of our local high school, Mrs. DAY with the class of 1944, and since then has been employed by Bell Telephone Co. in Salem, and the groom graduated with the class o 1942 and then enlisted in the Navy.

- PFC George MILLER arrived here Dec. 23 after receiving his discharge the day previous at Camp Grant. He is visiting his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Theodore MILLER. George entered the service Dec. 28, 1942, and shipped overseas Sept. 4, 1943, landing in England. From there he went to France, then to Belgium, Holland, and Germany. He started home Dec. 11, landing in New York, Dec. 17. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. PFC George wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Glider Wings, and the European Theater Ribbon with 2 stars representing the campaigns of Central Germany and Northern France. George has in mind going on to school within a year or so, but will soon leave for Lansing, Mich., where he expects to seek employment.

- Due to ill health, Mr. W.S. PRUETT has sold his wholesale business in this city to his nephew, Mr. Francis G. PRUETT, who will assume complete charge on Jan. 1. This will not mean the complete retirement of W.S. as he will retain his insurance business. The firm has a history which dates back 50 years. It was established in 1895 by W.S. PRUETT’s father, F.A. PRUETT. At that time it was a produce business. In 1901, Chas. F. PRUETT, father of Francis, entered the firm. Then in 1903, W.S. PRUETT entered the firm and the firm became known as F.A. PRUETT and sons. The father and founder, F.A. PRUETT died in 1917, and the business was carried on by the two sons under the old firm name. Charles F. PRUETT died in 1935, and the business was carried on by W.S. PRUETT. Soon after this the produce business was closed out and the wholesale business established. In 1936, the firm was sold to Charles E. PRUETT, a brother to Francis. A year later, Charles decided that he would like to return to the University and study medicine. The firm was then purchased by W.S. PRUETT, who expanded business. The old firm of F.A. PRUETT & Sons was then dropped, and the firm name of W.S. PRUETT established. The firm name will again be changed on Jan. 1st to F.G. PRUETT. Francis, who is better known as "Jack" graduated from our local high school with the class of ‘21 and from the Univ. of Illinois with the class of ‘25. After his graduation, he became manager of a branch house of F.A. PRUETT & Sons at Carlyle. After the closing of this branch, he was employed for 4˝ years in the Collector of Internal Revenue office in Springfield. For the past 4 years he has been employed in the General Accounting Dept. of the Emmerson Electric Co. of St. Louis.

- PFC Donna ARNOLD, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ora ARNOLD of the Arnold Chapel neighborhood, arrived home Dec. 4, after receiving her discharge at Ft. Sheridan the day previous. Donna enlisted in the WAC April 7, 1944 and was sent to Palm Springs, Calif., for 16 months, after which she was stationed at Stockton Field, Calif. She was assigned to the Training Aids Dept., as a draftsman. PFC ARNOLD wears the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Ribbon, and the Victory Medal.

- Pvt. Chas. V. VALLOW spent Christmas here with his mother and family.

- Lt. Carl PRUETT arrived her Dec. 19 to spend a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT, and his wife who has been teaching school in Louisville, Ill. Carl entered the Navy in April 1943 and received his commission as Lieutenant (junior grade) at that time. He was first stationed at the Norfolk Naval Hospital at Norfolk, Va. He was then sent to Alma, Mich., where he was the Medical Officer for the V-12 Unit at Alma College. He was later transferred to amphibious training and sent to Little Creek, Va. From here he started overseas in March 1945, going thru the Panama Canal and finally landing in Hawaii. He stayed there for a month and went on to the Philippines and then to the Fleet Hospital in Guam. In June 1945, he was advanced to the rank of Lieutenant. On Thanksgiving Day, he received his orders to report to Pensacola, Fla., and left Guam on Dec. 3, on the Hospital Ship Sanctuary. He landed in San Francisco, Dec. 16, and by flying home enabled him to be here for Christmas. Mrs. PRUETT will accompany Lt. PRUETT to Pensacola, where they hope to reside until Carl receives his discharge. (A picture was included).

- Cpl. John E. JEZEK, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louie JEZEK, arrived home Dec. 22 after receiving his discharge at Camp Grant on Dec. 17. He spent a few days in Chicago with his brothers before coming home. John entered the service Dec. 9, 1942 and shipped overseas March 27, 1943, landing in Ora, Africa. From there he went to France where he remained until his journey homeward. He was with a Communication Division of the 7th Army. He started home Nov. 24, and spent 18 days on the water, landing at Camp Patrick Henry, Va. Cpl. John wears the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the Unit Citation, and the European Theater with 1 star, representing the campaign of the Rhineland. As soon as John has rested, he intends going to school.

- The family of Mr. and Mrs. Joe BASS, formerly of this city, enjoyed the gathering of their family at their home in Rock Falls, Ill. on Dec. 16. All were present except 2, who were unable to come, their son, Edwin BASS, and family of Centralia, and daughter and family, Mrs. Malcolm RICE of Hot Springs, Ark. The day was spent visiting and taking pictures. Mr. and Mrs. BASS have enjoyed having their 4 sons with them, who saw action overseas, 3 of whom are discharged. Their son, Pearl E., is at Schicks General Hospital in Clinton, Iowa, and expects to be discharged in about 4 months. Also, as a special guest was the fiancé of their son, Everett, Miss Roberta RAYMOND. This was the first time in 4 years that their 4 soldier sons were together.

- Lt. Carl E. PRUETT and wife are enjoying a leave here with parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT and with her parents in Gibson City, Ill.

- Mr. H.W. WHITTENBURG of Madisonville, Ky. spent the weekend with his parents, and helped his father, J.W. WHITTENBURG, celebrate his 86th birthday.

- Meadow Branch: Verne SCHOONOVER arrived at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Walter SCHOONOVER the 19th from Calif. and will visit then with his wife at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. McINTOSH, near Salem until the 30th.

- Meadow Branch: Mr. Wes ROBB spent Sunday afternoon recently with Ira MARSHALL.

- Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Frank JOHNSON, and Charles JOHNSON and wife spent last Wednesday with Mrs. Effis JOHNSON BUTTS, near Iuka. Loren JOHNSON had been back on furlough and just returned to his station in Va., the 14th. Mrs. BUTTS had all her boys home with her at the time. Her daughters could not be present.

 

Please note!!! The articles on this web site were originally reported in weekly editions of "The Kinmundy Express" (also known at one time as "The Marion County Express") which are now located on microfilm at the Illinois Historical Library in the Microfilm Depository in Springfield, Illinois. Please note that the gleanings listed within this compilation do NOT represent entire articles in most cases, but instead, general and summarized information with special interest being focused upon data which is significant to genealogical research.

Compiled, transcribed, and printed by Dolores Ford Mobley. (March 1999) Questions, comments, suggestions should be directed to the e-mail address below.    Permission to copy,  is requested.

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