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639th c^ERO SQUADRON BOOK X
;; I

BEING <_A RECORD OF THE

SQUADRON'S ACTIVITIES
WITH BRIEF BIOGRAPHICAL
SKETCHES OF ITS MEMBERS
« ) i:"i !a ?

Organized September, 1917

With A. E. R, January, 1918, to May, 1919

Demobilized June, 1919

PUBLISHED BY THE
639th c/lERO SQUADRON
19 2
 J 5

DEDICATED
TO THE MEMORY
OF THOSE GALLANT MEM-
BERS OF THE A. E. F. WHO LOST
THEIRo LIVES IN FRANCE
FIGHTING FOR cA
PRINCIPLE

Gift
Publisher
APR 14 IS2i
 FOREWORD

It is with a great feeling of pride that I write the foreword to this book. The 6tyth
Aero Squadron was a live, wideawake, thoroughly American organization. It was an organ-
isation of splendid soldiers — energetic, industrious, gentlemanly, and, above all, loyal

ll hen you enlisted, you expected to he assigned to a combatant organisation because

you felt that a soldier's business was to fight. When developments indicated that there
was other work than fighting, and just as important, and fate willed that you were to be
placed in a more or less non-combatant organization, you maintained your seal and pur-
pose to be useful with characteristic cheerfulness Your work as soldiers was mainly along
the general lines <>\ your civilian occupations, and sometimes was
laborious and
it quite
uninteresting work, lacking all the excitement and adventure of a fight It was all the more
difficult, therefore, for you to maintain your enthusiasm and to put your hearts and best
efforts into the doily grind of work thou
if you hod had thrust upon you the strong incen-

tive and spur of actual or impending participation in battle. You did your work -well,
cheer) ally, and thoroughly, and your conduct at all times was such as to reflect credit on
the . I mericau Arm v.

Our sixteen months in France, living and working under emergency conditions, have
lett upon us indelible impressions. Our wits have been sharpened ; we hare had a good
chance to learn other men, whom to trust and whom to shun; our ideas hare been
improved by observation of the life and customs of another nation and by close contact
with a great war. Our experience will be of incalculable benefit to us in the future if

the lessons learned are properly applied. It was a great experience, and fortunate we
were to be permitted to participate.

We are still young, and before each of us lies a life of great possibilities and great
responsibilities. Never before has the country needed men of vour character so much as
now. It is a big country and its problems are in comparison. Let's continue to give it

our backing and moral support, suppress its maligners and internal enemies, and strengthen
the foundation upon which it rests.

I am glad you decided on a Squadron history. It is my hope that this book will keep
fresh in your minds the incidents and friendships of your life in the Squadron, and it is my
sincere wish that your futures will be crowded with happiness, success, and usefulness

EMANUEL FRITZ,
Captain, Air Service,
Commanding 639th Aero Squadron.
LEDERER, STREET C& ZEUS COMPANY
Printers and Publishers
Berkeley, Cal.
192
 CONTENTS
The Editorial Staff 7

Deciding on a Squadron Book , 8

Colonel Benedict to the 639th 10

Our History 11
Inception and Organization, Texas 11

Garden City - 15
En Route to France- 17
Brest 20
St.Maixent 21
Ourches 27
Amanty 31
Chat illon-su i- Seine 33
En Route Chatillon to Marsas - 55
Marsas and Embarkation Camp - 58
The U. S. A. Again 62
Organization of the Squadron 64
Who's Who 65
Officers no
Men
Enlisted - - 67
Sunny Texas Poem ( ) 98
A Record for Speed - - 101

Le Chemin de Fer d'Ourches (Poem) 99

A Hair-Raising Experience 105

My Impressions of the French People 105

639th Tunnel ( Poem) 109

Crime of the Recruiting Sergeant 117

My First Ride in an Airplane - - 100

An Apology for the Buck - 108

Dust and Din (Poem) 109

What to Do (Poem) 98
The Story of Chatillon-sur-Seine 107

The Understudy's Retrospects of the Supply Sergeant's Job 104

Some of My K. P.'s 112

Issue Day ( Poem ) 98

A Baseball Trip 113

The Last Two Days at Chatillon... 102

Dear Hannah (a letter) 116

The Mill (Poem) 115

Farewell France ( Poem ) 105

Take-offs and Crashes Ho

Roster of Members and Addresses 121

Finis :
127
 EDITORIAL STAFF
EDITOR IX CHIEF
T. F. Norton

ASSOCIATE EDITORS
C. W. Stock well I. B. Burns \\ . F. Galtes

\KTIST
N. Terminiello
 DECIDING ON A SQUADRON BOOK
The Squadron smoker held in the- mess hall on If crowd was surprised at Smith's ability, it was
the
Thursday, the 13th of February, proved to lie a dc- more astonished when Venske, of pugilistic
than
cided success and a real innovation in Squadron fame, assumed a position near the piano and in his
activities. In response to Norton's noon-day appeal, sweet, full baritone rendered two of his popular bal-
a large and representative assembly of Squadron lads entitled, "I'm Tying the Leaves So They Won't
members was present, considerably in advance of the Come Down," followed by the great hit of our child-
hour stipulated for the inaugural ceremonies. hood days, "School Days." The applause accorded the
\\ hether the attraction lay in the novelty of the "Battler" was deafening, but his modesty deprived the
occasion, or whether it was due to the fact that the boys of another encore.
"Bunch" had been slighted by Pete McArdle and his Wolff, whose cognomen is in no way typical of his
cohorts, is a matter of conjecture. However, it was disposition, sang in bis usual splendid manner, accom-
very evident that everyone was accompanied by a panied by Paine at the piano. Both were fully appre-
keen appetite coupled to an inexhaustible supply of ciated b_\ those present.
good spirits — some exceptionally good, evinced by the Pete McArdle filled the next twenty minutes chock
jocularity that prevailed throughout the entire shack. full of interest with his clever narrations and comic
At 8:15, coffee, camouflaged from the usual bev- songs, which seem to claim augmented praise at each
erage with beaucoup milk and sugar, was served with new hearing.
delicious sandwiches — as much of both as each one Though troubled with a severe cold, Ranahan fol-
tin night he could comfortably stow away. Judging lowed McArdle and was excused only when he had
from the average capacities on this occasion, one practically exhausted his extensive repertoire, so well
could not he censured too severely for thinking ill of were his offerings received by the boys.
the regular evening chow and the Mess Sergeant re- At this juncture, when enthusiasm had attained its
sponsible lor it. In reality, it was no reflection on highest pitch, "Honest John" took the floor and
the regular evening repast, but a tribute to the efforts addressed the meeting, explaining the object of the pro-
exerted by the Sergeant mi this particular occasion. cedure, which remarks were carried on by "Mother."
After all present had well eaten, cigars (the very He informed men in part that a Squadron
the k I

best obtainable) were passed around, while Milady had been decided upon, to be paid for from a fund
Nicotine reigned supreme for some time. Even Willie the men might gather for that purpose. The Squadron
Barrans ignored his usual conventionalities and in- members were privileged to exercise their own judg-
dulged in a rare Havana ; rare, he avers, for reasons ment in the selection of the men they considered most
he doesn't dare utter in public. Nevertheless, Willie capable of producing the most satisfactory results in
must be convinced that he is either not on intimate such a book. And this occasion was to be utilized to
terms with Milady, or that his taste for the weed is hold a popular election — the first in the history of
perverted or still undeveloped, inasmuch as Milady's the Squadron. was 9:00 p. m. when the meeting
It

sworn devotees vouched for the fine quality of the had been called to order, and the business of electing
smokes. an editor-in-chief was placed before the house. Here
Many came prepared in case the monniker applied it was that the political spirit displayed itself, while
to the blowout should prove erroneous; but these same the Smoker now assumed the aspect of an election
lost no time in sinking their own supply of smokes "blowout" such as it is the wont to bold in "God's
when they saw what a live committee had provided Country."
for them. Sergeant John B. Burns was nominated for chief
When smoke screen had been laid and general
the editor and was compelled to accept the nomination
satisfaction prevailed, John Burns, chairman pro-tern, in spite of bis earnest request to lie excused. Paul
owing to the "Top's" indisposition, arose and called Byrne, John Hums and Norton were on the ballot
'hi s,,ine of the "dark horses" of the Squadron to for chief editor, the final official count indicating
provide entertainment. What followed was a real that Norton had been elected to the position. The
treat and a revelation. Charles Smith, who for more ensuing twenty minutes were replete with heated and
than a year had deprived us by bis modesty of some interesting discussion, wherein parliamentary law was
real musical treats, took his place at the piano which very frequently referred to. As time for "lights
Dad Lewis so kindly loaned for the occasion, and out" approached, general eloquence increased, and it

rendered popular smi^s, interspersed with just enough became evident that ten o'clock would find the elec-
of the classical to make the affair highly appreciable. tion hardly half oxer. No time was lost in seeking
Sergeant Paine later played all the popular rags to a solution, so candles were very generously distrib-
the fullest approval of the crowd. uted throughout the ball. The later the hour, the
 gtfe 6 3 9TH AERO SQUADRON
more length} became the Bashes of oratory. In the Sergeant McArdle was at all times willing to turn
dim candle-glow the following nominees were an- over his shop to the troopers for the night, but on
nounced as the choice for associate editors: J. B. second consideration it was deemed advisable to call
Burns, C. W. Stockwell, P. J. Byrne, W. J. Shannon, the meeting adjourned and to repair to the hay-heap.
and W. F. Galtes. After a count of the ballots, • inmotion by Weisblum "that we quit," the meeting
a

entailing every precaution to assure fair play, John B. adjourned and the assembly filed out, taking as many
Burns, Chellis \V. Stockwell, and William F. Galtes of the Mess Sergeant's candles as they could get away
were named as the selection of the Squadron for with unobserved.
associate editors. The Smoker in itself was a treat and a great suc-
The hilarious spirit of crowd was in no way
the cess, while the electoral feature was novel and thor-
affected by a visit from the guard, Oscar Johnson, oughly appreciated by the men. So pleased were the
patrolling Post Xo. 1. Several suggestions for an all- boys with this smoker and so strong did they pull for
night session followed his appeal for less noise from a repetition of it, that all hoped to attend another.
the Mess Hall.
I. B. W.

A PAPER PUBLISHED IH THE INTERESTS OF THE

639 th AERO SQUADRON AE.F
Vol. I, No. I OV ,tC77l'fc" SERVICE Price, One Franc

MEMBERS OF SQUADRON " KEEP THE HUN BEATEN, " ALL RECORDS FOR

BUSY LAYING PLANS

SAW LIEUTENANT FRITZ
PROMOTIONS SMASHE1
There Sould Be No Relaxing Of Effort With Peace Near
FOR FUTURE Commanding Officer'* Message DURING NOVEMBER

LaJemon, WflJtJell. Murph> an. CoX'l \> \ i-omes inlo being in the bijjgcsl hour of tlie ltistor> of Ihc
Others to resume intrrupteJ i
niti '
Stales : ui that records its greatest achievement Vou can well Thirij-tliree advanced
careers be nrood ol Hie fact ttiat your squadron lias played an important pari in this
Over T»enl> Fn e
New non-coms
Sow that EttstMUics I ive
an Ure American Arraj ha* put '1
J
I In i-oslei of non ''"ins (rtok a bi^
ii- inuskc'smtdis picking up ilsn
boost ivithin Die squadron during [lie
kits, member*, ol the Gttth .

month of November, when 33 men

a (uudron are busy laying pljns for
i. eived.biglici rank Ainonglhehon-
i
future. While <- H. Q. has not
ors dished oul were -' 1st t:lass scr-
yel iniorme U9 the eigct dale t f the
I

-. while five o( i lie recipients

leparlurc of tins squadron for
seas, the men of Hie outfit u'elie inn ' wear upon their right sleeve

i! frig no brt<rae$ at being ca ;ted three s trine*. Ten were*

Facsimile of the First issue "i "Contacl

10 ^e639TH AERO SQUADRON

LIEUTENANT COLONEL BENEDICT TO THE 639TH

(Reprinted from Contact, Jan. 1, 1919.)

A /most a year ago today I met for the first time the 6jQth Aero Squadron under

the command of Lieutenant Emanuel Fritz, at Garden City, N. Y. Then you were
fresh from Kelly Field, Texas, atid as I look backward now, fresh in many other

things pertaining to military work. Yet, though the training was lacking at that time,

the spirit which teas going to make the 6jQth one of the best organizations in the A.

E. F. was there. This was shown by the willingness and ardor with which you

worked during the bitterly cold days and nights at the concentration camp.

After traveling separate paths for some time, it was a pleasure for me to pud you
again under my command. The old spirit to do your best is still there. Guard it

carefully. Any organization is only as good as the spirit which imbues it.

Many changes have taken place since the squadron was formed, all of which, I

believe, have been changes for the better. I have no doubt that you are competent to

perform any task which nuqht be assigned to an aero squadron. 'Fins is due not only

to you. but also to your commander. Lieutenant Emanuel Fritz, who has done and

done well all in his power to better the organization as a whole and the members of it

individually.

I wish to congratulate you, men of the 6jQth Aero Squadron and your com-
mander, upon your efficient and faith/ul service while in the A. E. F., but above all

for the good work you have done in making the Second Corps Aeronautical School
what it is at present.
CHARLES C. BENEDICT,
Lieutenant Colonel, Air Service.

We look upon Colonel Benedict as being one of us. August, 1918, while we were at Chatillon, that ( olonel,

We first met him at Garden City, where the 639th was then Major, Benedict was again to lie with us, this

made part of a wing of eight squadrons.

provisional time in command of our Post, the Second Corps Aero-
He was in command of this wing on its way to France nautical School.
and until it was again separated at St. Maixent into its Benedict is a graduate of West Point and
Colonel
eight component units. All of this time he was carried a West Pointer through and through. As an aviator,
on the rolls of the 639th as an attached member, and few are more proficient than he. lie is quiet hut

never did its rolls bear a more distinguished name. observant, firm but fair, a man to he trusted and re-

It was with the greatest joy that we learned in spected.

 Inception and Organization

At 4:30 m. on the 30th day of August, 1917, the

p. returned with good results. "Corn Willie," the same
men thatwere to be formed into the 118th Aero who later attained such fame ( ? in the A. E. F., was
)

Squadron the following day arrived at Kelly Field, for the first time introduced to us. We also obtained
South San Antonio, Texas. Fort Slocum, New York, some real good bread, "the The stall'
staff of life."
was our starting point. There we recruits had been being considerably light,
we could not lean upon it as
assembled from various places of enlistment. By far heavily as we wished. Our blankets were then care-
the larger number of men hailed from Xew York, fully folded so as to make a sort of sack to put
with Xew England a close second. All of us had ourselves into. Many bad previously remarked how
enlisted voluntarily and with great eagerness in answer durable the beds were, and after placing ourselves upon
to the country's call for "aviators." Yes, they told us the blackened springs the sentiment was general. Some
we would be flying within a month. of the men had a good night's rest, nevertheless, while
others testified the following morning that the noise
Upon our and hungry, after
arrival at "Kelly," tired
of the rattlers was too much to permit refreshing sleep.
our four days' journey from Slocum, we were met by
It was about eight o'clock the next morning that we
a sergeant and marched to Field Headquarters and
were called to attention by our new "Commanding
lined up for inspection While standing there on the
Officer," Private E. K. Sawyer. He organized us into
burning sand we received greetings from several sol-
a company, choosing men with previous military service
diers who had preceded us to the new aviation field
to act as sergeants were:
sergeants. The
John
by only a few weeks They took great pleasure in
("Bill") Frank Durdan, and Fred R. Bloom.
Paul,
jesting the new "rookie" outfit, telling us of the num-
Paul J. Byrne was to act as sergeant major, with
bers who had been victims of the terrific heat, and
Irving Weisblum as bis assistant. We also learned
how more were poisoned daily from the bites of the
that we were to be known as the 118th Aero Supply
rattlesnakes that inhabited that Sahara-like region.
Squadron, whatever that meant. The men were then
But their stories were taken with a grain of salt. Soon
put to work extracting weeds and cactus plants, in
a captain came on the scene and the Sergeant com-
order to clear our camp site. After this task was
manded us to stand at attention. He gave us a careful
completed we pitched our tents, and this, it must be
chest and throat examination to determine whether or
mentioned, was a tiresome job under the burning Texas
not anyone had contracted measles, mumps, or some-
sun. At the close of the day, having erected twenty-
thing of a more serious nature during the journey. All
two enough for the entire squadron, we moved
tents,
of us were found to he in good health and were then
our beds inside. Bed sacks were issued to the men
turned over to another officer, who took us to a spot
and filled with weeds of the finer kind, as the springs
where it seemed agricultural specialists had been suc-
made quite an impression the evening before, and it
cessful in the cultivation of at least weeds and cactus
was with much difficulty one could locate a soft spot.
plants. As the sun was sinking" in the west we were
The following few days were spent in "policing"
informed that we must draw an iron cot and a single
around our tents and making a respectable looking
blanket apiece from the Post Supply Department. The
street. Tom Yohe displayed some talent in beautify-
blanket constituted our only bed linen for that evening.
ing his tent by placing dainty little cactus plants and
We were also told that this chosen spot was to be our sea shells around the entrance which seemed to say
home and that we must make the best of it. And we The intense heat bothered us considerably,
"welcome."
did.
particularly the firstand each morning at
few days,
Scarcely had we drawn these things when a hungry drill-call several men were excused from
drill on the

member gave the "let's eat" cry. Small foraging par- strength of the "bad shoe" excuse. During our short
tieswere immediately formed. They set forth to see stay at Fort Slocum we were unable to procure shoes
what could he obtained from the various kitchens and for all of the men. Several had, therefore, to continue
 —

We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 13

wearing their civilian shoes; hence, "had shoes fall out" moving Turner's Dance Hall and Parry's
pictures.
was a common command. Rooi Garden had a strong appeal for the dancers of the
There was an increase in the "bad shoe" epidemic squadron, and there we were formally introduced to
when the supply tent received a quantity of aviation Southern damsels, who unhesitatingly inquired, "Where
instruments — picks and shovels — for elementary training. \ i hi. ill from ?"

Picks and shovels did not come as a surprise, because Calls came in frequently for "details" of bookkeepers
we perceived miniature implements of this type hung and truckdrivers, and when the non-commissioned
over several squadron headquarters. To many it officer in charge of the crowd was checking the men up,
seemed a fitting aviation insignia, and others were Varney, who was supply sergeant, knowing what the
dumbfounded and in their next letters home excused work would probably be, would quickly produce the
themselves for not being able to take the family up for picks and shovels. Six men were picked each day to
a ride, as they had originallj planned. Hard it seemed, do police work in the kitchen, such as washing pans,
but we went at it willingly, realizing that we were paring potatoes, and various other jobs of such nature.
making our first sacrifices as soldiers of war. We These men were automatically given the rank of K. P.,
realized, too, that, being among the first to enlist, we and the job itself was a rank one in Texas, as it meant
had to help construct the camps. continuous work, especially during the sandstorms.
Later, the daily work included four hours of infantry More than one modest individual gave wax to rash cuss

drill in addition to other work that was assigned to us. words when Texas started moving.
All this time we were in quarantine, but were allowed The kitchen had a large canvas covering and was in

to visit South San Antonio each evening

the road at charge of McGovern
mess sergeant. The
as acting
to purchase apples, pears, watermelons, and other fruits mess he put out was what we termed "regulation," as
from the Mexican peddlers. Many had no difficulty we always knew what we would have for each meal
in cultivating a negro's appetite for the famous melon. liver for breakfast, beans, pickles and lemonade for
The entertainments held about this time in the large dinner, and stew for the evening meal. The beans
Y. M. C. A. tent helped considerably in breaking up were sometimes cooked, sometimes not, and often
the monotony of quarantine evenings. The new- 118th burned. It took Mac some weeks to teach (?) his
Aero Squadron was, however, not lacking when it came understudies how to cook the beans as they were cooked
to presenting talent, for with Hogan as a dancer, Ackle in Boston, and we often wondered if Mac really knew

as a hypnotist, Patenaude as an impersonator, and Mul- himself. Since there were no tables, we sat on the
len as a vocalist, we were "there." The three latter ground, the non-commissioned officers always having
mentioned were, to our great regret, transferred later a keen eye on us to see that sanitary regulations were
to other squadrons, but they have constantly corre- complied with.
sponded with us, expressing their desire to be with us Most of the guard duty at this post was done with
again. wooden clubs for weapons; and whoever was assigned
Now that all the men had received their full quota the post that took in the wood pile was suit to be always
of inoculations and the sore arms had healed, we on the alert, because large rattlesnakes were supposed
looked forward to getting aeroplane experience or to dwell within and to make their appearance in the
orders for our departure overseas. After quarantine small hours of the morning. The first mail to arrive
was lifted the "Top Kick" was kept busy each evening was tendered a cordial reception and when "Slim"
distributing passes to the city. Fifty were issued each Callahan, our mail orderly, shouted "mail call," the
night, with instructions that we must be in camp before men dashed from the tents acclaiming him the most
eleven o'clock. It was a common sight in passing the popular man in the squadron, "denial" Gene devel-
best hotelsand dining roms to see men of the squadron oped a marksman's eye and had no trouble in throwing
struggling with a large juicy steak or placing an order letters and papers to the right men in the impatient
for a chicken dinner. The grill room of the St. mob.
Anthony Hotel w-as a favorite landmark, where some On the September we were given a new
19th of
of us devoured many a Sunday,
"soup to nuts" course. Commanding and instead of ranking in the
Officer,

of course, was the day that afforded the most time and enlisted class he proved to be a Lieutenant. Our new
pleasure. As reveille was the only call answered on C. O. was First Lieutenant Charles W. Marshall, who,
that day, we had the opportunity of visiting the San during his stay, worked hard for our interests.
Jose and Santa Rosa churches, Breckenbridge Park, As we were now well acquainted with the camp and
the historic Alamo, and other points of interest. The its surroundings, it was a pleasure to visit friends from

Buckhorn Saloon, where so many pairs of antlers and our home towns who had enlisted before us and were
steers' horns were artistically displayed, will long be quartered in the wooden barracks and furnished with
—
remembered for the horns, of course. For playhouses, much better facilities for comfortable living. It was
the Majestic seemed to have the best call, as this house our ambition and desire to live in similar barracks.
always had a program of high-class vaudeville and Lieutenant Marshall was of the same opinion and was
 12 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
successful in having our outfit removed to Barracks uous domestic efforts, hut not too tired to serve us a
No. 33 on October 6, 1917. Everybody was happy that chow.
little

day, regardless of what his duties were. No sooner Two

schools were opened for the purpose of instruc-
had we settled in our new homes than Dame Rumor tion, one being for non-commissioned officers, the other
called upon us in the form of a going-out message, offering a course in the mechanics and eare of aero-
which strengthened the feeling of good-fellowship that planes and motors. The former was attended by the
existed. It seemed unlikely that we were to leave, yet
non-commissioned officers and the latter by forty men
the rumor, although false, caused each one to he a trifle who were considered best adapted for motor work.
nervous. All of us were anxious to get hack North,
Men in both classes made very good progress, with one
in order to show the old folks and friends how we —
exception "Buck" Atwell, who attended the school
looked in O. D. uniforms; then to cross the sea and for mechanics. He frankly told the commanding
take our chances at whatever was allotted us as our hit
officer that was the "foist" time he had attended
it
in the greatest of all wars.
3cl I ni twent} years, and that his "gray matter" did
The following were made non-commissioned officers not grasp the points as quick!) as expectedHe wished
on September 17, 1917: Sergeants, Paul J. Byrne, to be and was, his vacancy being filled b\
excused,
William I. I'aul, Fred R. Bloom, James A. McGovern, another "aviator." We had now been soldiers over two
Edgar G. Varney, Edward J. Murphy, Thomas Durdan, months and the signs pointed to anything but our
and James P. Atwell Corporals, Louis Whittenborne,
; training as pilots, as had been promised us upon
Irving Weisblum, Thomas F. Norton, William Brandt, enlistment.
and John B. Burns, Lieutenant- Bagley, Burnett, and others were attached
About the 10th of October we drew our first pay to the squadron for a short period, making a "study"
from Uncle Sam and frequent trips to San Antonio of supply work. They had just been commissioned in
were thus made possible. The conveyances most used the service, receiving their training at Kelly Field.
were taxis operated by independent taxi companies; Tins worked with us until given command of a squad-
their cars were kept busy between the hours of 5:00 ron or some other permanent berth. While they were
p. m. and 11 :00 p. m. On the return trips the military with us we had two fire calls. One of them came long
police were always on the job, searching the men to before sunrise and was heard by few, while the other
see if they had any liquor with them. Unofficial orders took place in the afternoon within the section occupied
were coming in daily that we were to leave for various by tents and caused little damage.
places, such as Egypt, England, Russia, and France.
Among the men of the squadron who took and suc-
On October 29th eighty men were transferred to cessful^ passed the examinations for entrance to
various squadrons that left that day and the following ((Ulcers' School were the following: Holley, Norton,
day for Garden City, N. Y. This put a big hole into Buchannon, Gregory, and Conron. Holley and Norton
our squadron, and took many of our best men. Lieu- remained with the squadron, upon the advice of Lieu-
tenant Marshall was relieved from duty on the 10th of tenant Christie, while the other three men were trans-
November, and a few days later the squadron was ferred, a few days Aero Squadron,
later, to the 84th
placed in command of Lieutenant 1. G C. Christie, and received their training On December
at Kelly Field.
Sig. R. C. It was evident that his aim was expressed
13th, Sergeant James Smith and Private Roy Adams
by the saying, "Contentment brings results," and during were transferred to a photographic detachment and left
his short stay with us he gained the affection and the following day for Garden City, there to embark-
admiration of all. Major Claggett, who was in charge immediately for overseas duty. Simultaneously with
of eight squadrons (our squadron included), gave our the transfer of these two men came a "Great Norther,"
new C. O., and the men, valuable instructions, bringing which struck the camp and played havoc particularly
the squadron to a high standard of perfection. Major with the men who were occupying the tents. It visited
Claggett had his office in our headquarters. us in the barracks, too, causing the sand to pile up in
Thanksgiving arrived and with it came a turkey sheltered spots outside the barracks and make its way
dinner with all the "fixins." The afternoon offered a through the cracks in the buildings, covering everything
football game between the men from Kelly Field and in sight with "Texas confetti."
a team composed of men from Camp Travis, the new The following days were clear and the bath-house
National Army Cantonment of the Southwestern sec- and laundry stands were well patronized. As it was
tion, located to the north of San Antonio. The game then close to Christmas, trips to town became more
was attended by a large number from
squadron the frequent and purchases of armadilla baskets, Indian
who were anxious "Ted" Smith's performance,
to see rugs, pennants, and other appropriate gifts were made
our lone representative on the team. The game was and forwarded to our homes. Mail orderlies had larger
exciting and was won by the Travis men at a score of sacks to bring to us, especially to those who had not
six to five. Llpon our return to the barracks we found informed relatives and friends that we were to leave
the cooks and K. P.s much fatigued after their stren- soon for France. With the advent of Christmas it
 —

t?fe 6 3 9TH AERO SQUADRON 15

was hard to determine whether we 'would eat our holi- Lewis, Ruggles, Hall, Dove, Snow, Ross, and Birkbead.
day dinner in the Southern camp or on the train, but All officers were from the Infantry Reserve
the new
we decided to have a turkey dinner anyway. At the Corps. That same day orders were received, a final
same time, we learned that we were to lose our popular inspection was held, and we were ready to leave. The
C. O., Lieutenant Christie. On the holiday morning big day had come. We were to leave the next day,
Hogan, who was mess sergeant, gave us a hearty December 28. Orders were to proceed to the Aviation
breakfast of steak, potatoes, and onions. But few of <loncentration Camp at Garden City, Long Island, X. Y.,
the "preparedness advocates" were absent from this there to await the first available transport for overseas.
meal, as it became known that the dinner was be a We traveled by accompanied by the 24th and 25th
rail,

hummer. At noon, when everybody was "sitting Aero Squadrons, each squadron having a mess (bag-
pretty" at the dinner table, Lieutenant Christie and gage car of its own.
) Texas bade us a grudging
Lieutenant Emanuel Fritz, our commanding officer farewell, for she did her best to blow up a good strong
to he, entered the mess hall. Upon their entrance sand storm, which reminded us of the earlier days
everyone snapped to attention, hut had only risen from when we were obliged to cover our food with our hats
their places when the command "rest" was given by to keep the sand away. The trip to Garden City took
Lieutenant Christie, who at the same time stated that six long days, in cars that had been discarded after a
all military formalities would be dispensed with during number of years of service for the Pullman Company.
the dinner hour. The K. P. force and cooks got busy One of the tourist sleeping cars, in particular, was very
and served a dinner that we will long remember, both uncomfortable, as the beating system was frozen, and
for its excellent quality and its generous quantity all along the line there seemed to be one obstacle after

turkey, cranberries, pie, ice cream, and everything another. In every town en route Xew Orleans, —
oh, boy! At the close, and just about the time each Montgomery, Atlanta, Richmond, Baltimore, etc. we —
bad his Havana going in good style, Lieutenant Christie encountered the coldest weather the oldest inhabitants
informed us that he was to be transferred and, in brief, could remember.
stated his regrets at not being able to have the pleasure
of making the trip overseas with us. He also gave the Garden City
squadron a good recommendation when he said that We stopped at Houston, Xew Orleans, Montgomery,
no one bad imposed upon bis leniency and that it had Ala., and Athens, Ga., for short periods of exercise.
nut been necessary for him to "tighten up" at any time. In each of these cities we were tendered only a mild
He then introduced our new commanding officer, reception it seemed that troops on their way to
;

Lieutenant Emanuel Fritz, F. A. R. C. Upon being embarkation ports paraded these same street so fre-
introduced. Lieutenant Fritz made a brief after-dinner quently that the native became accustomed to it.
speech, and "boosted" the squadron of which he was Occasional shouts of "Get the Kaiser!" and "Give him
about to take command. He would also stated that he Hell !" were heard all along the line. Knowing that
carry out the policies of Lieutenant Christie and said we were soon to become members of the American
he knew that he had the best mess sergeant in the Expeditionary Forces, these exclamations made our
service, which remark brought cheers and laughter, blood warm, and each soldier marched with a
run
while Hogan, who was resting bis elbows on the firmer step and clearly showed his belief in the
bench in the kitchen, bashfully smiled. Before his seriousness of the task that lay before him. Our mess
departure, Lieutenant Christie was presented with a car caught fire outside of Washington, but the fire was
silver cigarette case. easily extinguished with only moderate damage. On
was an open secret that orders for overseas were
It the 2nd of January at 8:30 p. m. we drew into the
daily expected, and in preparation for it the following Philadelphia Station, where we were met by several
additional officers were assigned for duty on December Red Cross Canteen workers, who distributed sand-
27: Lieutenant Hansell as Supply Officer and Lieu- wiches, coffee, cigarettes, and post cards. The Red
tenant Gillett as Adjutant ; also, Lieutenants Little, Cross won our hearts that night. Long Island City
 M

OUR LAST MERL I

GARDEN CIT/
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 17

was readied the following afternoon by ferry from this respect and returned in time to leave with lis,

Jersej City, and there a similar treat was shared. while others were S. ( ). I.., transferred to the Casuals
The same evening we arrived at our new camp near and left behind.
Garden City, Long Island, with the mercury hovering Orders for transportation overseas arrived on Jan-
around the zero mark. The entire journey was char- uary 10th and all were anxious to he moving. Some of
acterized by the most intense eold and bodily discom- the new officers who came to Garden City with us were
fort. The railroads had just been taken over by the transferred to other organizations. They were Lieu-
Federal Government and the employees en route seemed tenants Little, Lewis, Hall, Dove, Ross, and Birkhead.
to show their disfavor by giving as little service as Captain Robert J. Souther was assigned as medical
possible. In some of the larger cities, as much as six officer,
hours were lost in an endeavor to thaw out and repair On the morning of the 13th of January we arose at
the pipes of the worn-out heating sytsem. four o'clock and started out for the train that would
The Long Island Railroad took us right into camp carry us to the boat. No one was accused of over-
and we had but a short distance to march to barracks eating, morning menu consisted of a piece of
as the
Xo. 22, only recently completed. Here we were greeted cake and an orange. Xo directions were given, hut the

En Route Texas to Garden City.

with steam heat, cots, and mattresses; lor comfort, rule seemed general that the orange should he eaten
this couldn't he beat The busiest man. instead of first,and it was. Captain Souther, our medical officer,
being the supply sergeant, as is usually the case when and Lieutenant Fritz led the parade afoot toward the
a squadronmoves, was on this occasion the mail station, following an auto which served as a guide.

orderly, for he played Santa Clans by emptying five The trip to the station was our last in cold weather.
sacks filled with letters, presents, and Xmas cards "Sunny" France could certainly not he that cold. The
Telephone and telegraph wires were kept busy during Red Cross wool was very useful that day. However,
our tin-day stay at this concentration camp, as passes in spite of this, a few fro/en ears, noses, and fingers

to leave camp were forbidden. Many of the boys had were reported.
friends and relatives call upon them to hid them a last En Route to France
fond farewell before crossing the submarine-infested We reached Hoboken at nine o'clock and remained
sea. The work at Garden City was mainly that of on the fern- while the baggage of our squadron and
completing records, making passenger lists, and getting that of other squadrons was put on hoard. After all
supplies and clothing that could not he obtained in baggage had been loaded, the men of other squadrons
Texas; also, doing our bit to keep the power plant marched up the gangplank and were assigned their
going (shoveling coal in such weather was anything places. It was not until four o'clock that afternoon
but pleasant). Several men who were taken sick on that the ferry was cleared of baggage and troops.
the train were transferred out of the squadron as not Being the last to go aboard, the time waiting for our
being able to recover enough to make the journey turn afforded us ample opportunity to think of the
overseas with us. A few, also, living in nearby cities future and of the pleasant land of Liberty we were
and towns, were determined to disregard Post Orders to leave and fight for. Our lives, in our minds, depre-
and enjoy a "French leave." Some were fortunate in ciated about ninety per cent in value, and we felt that
 OUR FIRST /NTROOUCTIOM
- 40 HOMrtES
WONDFRiNCS^ q CHEVE/lUX
VERY
 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON 19

if we were among the ones to return victoriously to away from Hoboken on the 13th of January,
the States we would lie extremely fortunate. The 191S. In addition to our crew of 56 officers and
eagerness we entertained to get into the fight was, 1,137 men, we earned about 3,000 troops, 1(1(1

however, intermingled with honest anxiety, and we took casual officers and 1411 civilian employees.
many last looks at the sights that surrounded us. "The day before we cleared, the Agamemnon
( proved to he the U. S. S. Agamemnon,
)ur transport listed a bit at her dock and water rushed into
formerly the North German Lloyd liner Kaiser Wil- the hold through a couple of port holes, but

helm II, an immense vessel indeed. Although we were quick work with the pumps prevented any seri-
the last to go ahoard, our quarters were among the ous results. On the first day out we encoun-
best. Sergeants were given staterooms,
first-class tered fresh breezes and night fall saw the

while the rest of the Squadron was fortunate in having barometer Inning the next two
falling fast.

upper compartments. Some of us were quartered in days the storm increased, and to make matters
the mess hall and took care of the mess hall and line, more uncomfortable the surgeon reported that
receiving extra food as our compensation. We lined scarlet fever had broken out among the men of

up for our first chow at 4:15 p. m. and were served the 122nd Aero Squadron, which came from

"navy beans," which surely tasted good, as this was Minneola.

our first meal since early morning. Eating with us "At 9 :00 p. m., on the
18th, the alarm sounded,

were seven other squadrons, casual companies, a large man overboard A

mountainous sea was run-
!

number of civilian employees, and about 900 colored ning. I went out onto the bridge at once. It was
—
troopers about 5000 in all. Norton's "let's go" was an impossibility to attempt to launch a boat, so
heard for the first time, keeping the mess line in I ordered the ship turned about in the forlorn
motion so as have everything clear lor an enter-
to hope that the man might lie washed back onto
tainment with the squadron Victrola after supper for the deck again by the high seas. As the Aga-
those who were quartered in the mess hall. memnon turned about she rolled to 30 degrees.

Seven squadrons accompanied us on our num- ship, The heavy seas jammed the telemotor hard to

bered 121-127, inclusive, and the entire group was com-

port, and the big vessel was without steering
apparatus.
manded by Major C. C. Benedict, J. M. A., carried on
our squadron rolls for transportation. The trip across "Waves broke clear over the top deck of the
was not as eventful as we had expected, for we all had steamer and all the deck glasses were smashed
dreams of seeing the gunners popping away at sub- in no time. Life boats were splintered and
marines now and then. This did not take place; there many of them were carried away. Time after
was not even target practice. Boat drill and mess time we managed to 'jockey' the ship out of
took up most of the entire trip. The call for boat the trough, but within a few minutes she was
drill nine in the morning and at two in
sounded at back there again, rolling harder than ever.
the Each section was assigned a certain
afternoon. "The troops were huddled in the dark recesses
exit and we marched up to the life boats or rafts below decks, regulations forbidding any lights,
wearing our overcoats, life preservers, and having our and too much cannot be said regarding the per-
canteens full of water. We remained at our station for sonal bravery of those men.
about two hours at each drilland during this time the "At 1 :45 in the morning the engineers suc-
boat was given a thorough cleaning. ceeded in adjusting the telemotor and we all
A number of entertainments were given in the mess thought the danger was over. But we had not
hall (luring the trip, each with varied bills. Witteborn reckoned with the sea. The Agamemnon had
managed the boxers, the sailors gave the movies with been rolling steadily during the time repairs
their broken and there were quartets and colored
films, were being made, and apparently not wanting to
battle royals. These vaudeville shows made the long be cheated of its prey the sea seemed to increase
evening hours more pleasant, especially since no one in its fury. A smashing big wave struck us, and
was permitted outside on the decks after dark. The over we went to the starboard to the almost
first few days out the weather was splendid and it was unbelievable roll of 40 degrees.
a pleasure to get out on the decks and gaze off toward "When the indicator pointed to 40 degrees
the horizon, wearing all the time those cute little sofa every one turned white. Word was rushed to
pillows known as life preservers. On Friday evening the wireless room of our position, so that it the
a severe storm sprang up and what happened is better worst came the world would at least know where
told by Captain Morgan, U. S. N., Commander of the we foundered. In a few seconds the vessel with
Agamemnon, in the following extract from a New- a seemingly human effort began to go to port
York newspaper: again, and then it was that we got the maximum
"On the next trip across we defied all super- roll of 43 degrees. I guess everybody thought
stitions of the sea, but never again. We started it was all over, but luckily just at that time we
20 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
were . il > 1
1
to maneuvre out of the trough and, ment watching a small French hoy paddling alongside
with the steering gear fixed, went safely on our the ship. Mis boat was a heavy, awkward rowboat ol

way." a type used mostly by fishermen about the harbor. At

one end of it be would gleefully dance, catching pack-
While the ship rocked, the negroes prayed fervently,
ages of cookies, coins, or whatever the soldiers aboard
making promises siicli as, "Oh, Lord you'll make 1
il"
ship might throw to him. Some of the donations
this ship sail straight 1 shure won't shout no more
would land in the water hut lie quickly paddled about
craps," and. "Boys, I'se g'wan to write ma wife an'
and recovered them. Coal and water were taken on
tell her to annuder nigger."
get They also sang a
from small harbor boats manned by oddly dressed
few hymns, each one several times until
repeating
sailors, none of whom could understand English, and
it seemed they would tire of it themselves. These
hut few of our number were able to grasp what they
hymns, although not at all musical, gave lis merri-
had to say. They were not at all slow in making us
ment and were the means of many not realizing the
understand that they were more than willing to receive
seriousness of the situation.
all donations of tobacco that we might give them. In
When the ship again sailed smoothly, we labored
fact, a canteen full of fresh water, of which they had
for a short time repairing the tallies and broken par-
plenty on hoard and we none, called for a plentiful
titions. The following afternoon we met the U. S.
supply of "Tahac" in return.
Battleship Montana and the U. S. Transports Mt.
Vernon and Matawascott. The Mt. Vernon, form- Among other things ol daily interest was the captive
observation balloon allowed to float over the city dur-
erly the German liner Kronprinzessin Cecilie, was a
sister ship of the Agamemnon and was of the same
ing the day. Often as we stood upon the deck and

capable of making approximately the

looked out upon the high walls that surrounded the
size, same
speed. The sight of these ships and the cruiser dis- city we wondered if we would get a chance to see
what sort of life the people lived who were beyond
persed the gloom ol our thus far lonesome trip since
the walls. Here, I might say that a few were privi-
leaving Hoboken.
leged to that pleasure hut the majority enjoyed con-
On Monday morning, five well camouflaged destroy-
and
finement on The lew who did go ashore
shipboard.
ers appeared, coming From different directions
went there on baggage details or on other duties ill
struggling valianth with the heavy waves. Joy pre-
preparation for the landing of the entire squadron, and
vailed, as we not onl\ had company now, hut protec-
while ashore managed to see some of the French
tion. They kept in the form of an irregular boundary
people and their methods of living.
for the three transports, zigzagging in and out all the
time When they had us well covered, the Cruiser At last our transportation orders were received and
Montana felt that her services were no longer required on the _'7th all troops on hoard were unloaded, with
and started hack to escort others to France. The the exception of the Aero Squadrons. Much enjoy-
Matawascott was left in the rear with two destroyers ment was experienced in watching our colored friends
as the Agamemnon and Mt. Vernon hurst ahead at as they disembarked. They had been the life of the
lull speed with three destroyers as escorts, which trip and was with regret that we saw them scramble
it

remained with us until we entered the port of Brest. cautiously down the gangplank and pack themselves,
with their baggage, upon the barge which was to carry
Brest, France
morning of January _'4th, as we them ashore. They were a merry lot and all swore
Fortunately, the
that they wanted just one more trip across the pond,
entered the was clear and beautiful, and we
harbor,
had a good opportunity to view the beautiful hay and and then "never again,"

adjacent bills of Brittany. Everybody heaved a sigh Early the following morning, we were notified to
of relief that he was once more within sight of land. make ready to land. All was confusion as we fixed
Accompanied by our sister ship the Mt. Vernon, we our packs, took down our bunks, and policed our sec-
proceeded up the harbor. As we sailed along, numer- tion. At the appointed hour, every one of us was on
ous things of interest took up our attention, such as deck awaiting our turn to pass down the plank from
an occasional French submarine traveling on the sur- the ship had brought us safely so many miles
that
face of the water, queerly camouflaged destroyers, across the deep. At last, all the Aero Squadrons were
observation balloons, or a hydroplane out on scout aboard the "Limy" barge and we left the side of the
duty passing over us. \\'e made our way to positions Agamemnon, passed the Mt. Vernon and arrived at the
just opposite the city
and there dropped anchor. landing quay. Many queer sights greeted us as we
had hopes of landing at once, but on that point
All passed along the waterfront. Strange looking ships
we wire doomed to disappointment, as four long days and stranger looking people confronted us. Among
were to pass before we were to set foot on "Mother them we saw many German prisoners working about
Earth." However, more freedom was allowed us than the docks loading freight upon peculiar and tiny

we had had when under steam, and while waiting for French freight ears.
our turn to go ashore we were afforded much amuse- \s we set foot upon the earth, we once more
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 21

thanked God that this privilege had been granted us, friendship. Our commanding officer, however, was
and with light hearts marched away toward the city. averse to having the acquaintaance made at that time,

After leaving the docks our waj led up a steep grade, but even bis watch fid eye was not
sufficient to keep

walled high on either side, and, loaded with our heavy the sisters away. few instances members were
In a

packs as we were, the climb to the city was far from made overjoyful by their presence and close associa-
a pleasure trip.Onr march was not of long duration, tion.

for upon reaching the upper level where the city At 2:00 p. m. the miniature locomotive gave vent
proper was located, a "column right" was given and and we were off, but our destina-
to its shrill whistle

the squadron passed through the gate into the railroad tion was kept For some time the report had
secret.

yard where we were given our first real broadside been current that the squadron had been assigned to
view of the railway coaches within which soldiers are duty in Egypt, and now as we traveled southward the
most accustomed to travel in France. A complete report gathered strength that we were headed for the
train of these magnificent side-door "pullmans" stood Mediterranean, then to cross into Egypt. The train

at attention, awaiting our entry. Each bore the famil- rolled dark and then every man began to make
on till

iar sign "40 Hommes on 8 Cheveaux," meaning that preparations for sleeping, though no very extensive
each car was capable of transporting 40 human beings preparations were necessary as there was but one
or 8 animals. At first sight we looked upon these thing to do, and that was to lie down upon the floor

carriages in dismay, wondering if the United States and use another sleeper, or possibly a case of hardtack,
Government expected us good American citizens to for a pillow.

travel in such affair-- as these; but we were not left Few of us will ever forget our first night's ride in

long in, doubt on that score, for about 30 men were a box ear bouncing about over the rails like a cork
assigned to each vehicle and were told to await fur- in a heavy sea. Many times w r
e expected the cars to
ther orders. Each man dropped bis equipment in the leave the tracks at the curves, but each time they
vicinity of the car in which be was about to travel, would right themselves and roll along evenly once
and thereupon the men gathered in groups to talk the more. The night finally passed and at the first streak
situation over. of daylight all were up, brushing the straw and dirt

from their clothing. Early in the morning, we pulled

1 lunger and thirst were among our first thoughts.
into Nantes, where all were unloaded and given our
Water happened to be plentiful and soon each man
first taste of French "cafe noir." far from tasty, but
bad his canteen filled, but food was another propo-
acceptable after the night's ride.
sition.One fellow managed to locate a bakery where
After a short stop we entered the cars once more
he made known that he desired a loaf of bread. In
and continued our trip southward. The day was fine
payment he threw down a good American dollar bill,

Thinking this price rather and many things of interest were to be seen from our
but received no change.
position in the doorways and windows of the cars.
high, he said nothing, but walked out wondering if
prices for all articles in France were in proportion.
Late in the afternoon we received word that we were
approaching our journey's end and wotdd probably
Since then he has received considerable education in
arrive our destination that evening.
at This put an
regard to such matters.
end to our hopes of going to Egypt, but nevertheless
Food any quantity was not obtainable at the sta-
in
the prospects of quitting the train that night were
tion, some good American Red Cross nurses
but
welcomed. We had left Brest with three days' rations,
showered us with apples from over the wall on the
and now that the trip was nearly at an end and half
street above, and also lightened our appetites by allow-
of the food was still left, everybody filled up to capac-
ing us to feast our eyes on some real American girls
ity. St. Maixent, our destination, was reached the
doing their bit in the war. Soon after mid-day we
evening of January 29th,
were loaded upon the cars with our rations of hard-
tack, tomatoes, corn willie, beans, and a little jam. St. Maixent
The distribution of these articles was in charge oi By the time all had left the cars everything was
the mess sergeant, who endeavored to place equal in complete darkness The Squadron up beside
lined
quantities of each article in every car; but as a matter the train by the light of a single lantern, and at a
of fact some cars fared better on jam than did others signal fromcommanding officer we executed
the
Nevertheless, his intentions were good, although the "squads right" and marched down into the town. The
distribution could be criticized somewhat, also his con- streets were very crooked until we finally passed
dition as to equilibrium. through a stone archway into the courtyard of what
It was while waiting here for the train's departure was later found to be the Conclaux Barracks. Our
that many of the fellows made their first acquaintance stay here was short, for the command to bait had
with the "Yin" sisters — Blanc et Rouge. Having heard hardly been given before orders to march again were
much of their presence and popularity throughout issued and we passed out of the courtyard back into
France, many of the men made haste to form the the crooked streets. After a short march we again
 C?KT

^SZS^MS^^3^MEBS^E^SnSZ^3ZSZ^ZSSS. 5WE£T"lOC^ l
EHROUTE TO OURCHES Ori BOARD THE FRFIM CfllS "TOOT
 W> 639TH AERO SQUADRON 23

entered a stone archway into the walled courtyard of a sea of mud, our first introduction to French mud.
the Preshytere Barracks, now to become our home For France is often spoken of as "Sunny France", but our
a period of four weeks. The courtyard included two first month in the country failed to impress us with
large three-story stone huildings. The 122nd Squad- much of the sunshine. Our meals were eaten in the
ron was assigned to the lower floor and the 118th to court in the open, standing or squatting in the mud.
the upper. The second was already occupied by the As little time as possible was spent in eating, but of
106th, later called the 800th. To this sky parlor we necessity the French bread issued to us required con-
quickly retired by way of a staircase with many twists siderable time for biting and chewing. One of our
and turns. We found two large vacant rooms within number, McBride by name, can testify to the extreme
which the one hundred and fifty of us were to make hardness of this bread; in fact, he still shows effects
ourselves comfortable. In short order candles threw of one battle with an extra hard crust.
their light upon the emptiness, our equipment was
"Corn willie" was served plentifully and frequently.
quickly thrown upon the floor and each man tried to
Chicago, the home of this food, became unpopular
find room to spread his blankets.
and the few self-respecting sons of Chicago in our
In the course of an hour or so, the cooks of the midst were never left in the dark as to what the
squadrons that had been here several weeks sent us remainder of us thought of "Chi."
word that had prepared us a sumptuous meal,
the)'
The dearth of sweet things and variety in our food
consisting of "slum." There was a rush for the court- was alleviated somewhat by the Y. M. C. A. The
yard with mess-kits, but horrors! the slum was burnt.
"Y" had two small rooms just inside the main gateway
The cooks were duly informed of the high respect in and the limited space was usually crowded; but never-
which they were held by all of us. Burnt stew cannot theless it gave accommodations for letter-writing,
be camouflaged even with large pieces of hardtack games, and a general lounging place, as well as a
floating about, nor can it in any way be made tasty small canteen. The canteen, though small, supplied
even tohungry man.
the For that reason, we all us with French chocolate which contained enough
"couched" upon the hard floor that night with empty sand to make a good mortar. There were also French
stomachs and revengeful thoughts as to what should apples anil nuts, but of a far inferior quality to our
be done to that mess sergeant and his can-openers on own American "Sky Pilot" Jones was often
fruit.
the morrow. able to bring samples of French pastry from local
Itbad been our pleasure that night before retiring bakeshops, a small morsel which would cost "beaucoup
to find in the 800th Squadron a few men who had centimes"; occasionally he had sticks of licorice for
previously been, members of our organization; it was sale and they became very popular because seldom
a pleasure to talk over old times with them and to obtainable.
listen to their experiences since leaving our outfit. It was at this "Y" that we first began to get
Not a few of the boys expressed the desire to return acquainted with and in some respects learn the
to our midst where they could associate with their
value of our new friend, the franc. Previous to this
original "buddies." Many of them had enlisted with time the good American dollar had been the basis of
us at Ft. Slocum and we had formed close friendships. all financial dealings that we had ever had, but now
The following day, order was brought about some- our cash was all in francs and the value of any article
what; squads were assigned sleeping spaces, bed sacks was given in francs or fractions thereof. The French
filled with straw, and things became slightly more money system was not hard to become familiar with,
comfortable. We were able to look from the windows but it was soon learned would not buythat our francs
of our elevated home upon the roofs of what appeared a large quantity of had few ways of
any article. We
to be a sizeable town. St. Maixent was searched for spending our money as no liberty was allowed outside
upon the map and found to be in the Department of the barracks enclosure, except in a few individual
Deux Sevres, about one hundred and seventy-five kilo- cases where some men's ingenuity found for them
meters north of Bordeaux. All had hopes of seeing methods of getting out and seeing the town. The
French life and also of tasting some of the French would-be sick enjoyed the greatest liberty along this
pastry and liquid refreshments; but again disappoint- line, as they usually managed to get lost in traveling
ment greeted us at first hand. The Squadron was from the barracks to the hospital and return. The
quarantined and our prison consisted of the barracks guards were also frequently awakened by the late
buildings, plus the courtyard surrounded by a high return of some member of the post as he clambered
stone wall. The yard was not large, although suffi- over the wall or scrambled in through the window of
ciently large to stretch one's legs. It was bordered on the coal room. But although these few had exciting
the far side by bleacher seats which were well patron- tales to tell of their experiences with French mademoi-
ized at all hours of the day, rain or shine, Sundays selles, all of us gained a little idea of French life and

included. customs while out on our almost daily bikes into the
Because of the frequent rains, this yard was usually surrounding country. These hikes were our life savers,
24 639TH AERO SQUADRON
as they gave us the much needed exercise and also thefirst time since leaving Garden City, we were able

a little variety, something to see and think about. to shower ourselves with lots of soap and a little
We saw many
strange things, and to our unaccustomed warm water. Seven minutes was allowed each man.
cms seemed to be an unusually large amount
there
About this time, a few' of the familiar scenes observed
of black worn by the people. Their wooden shoes, wood
within our enclosure were: Childers on the pile,
which resounded upon the stone pavement like a troop the straw shed,
Blough taking bugle lessons in order-
of cavalry passing in review, took our fancy. Another lies carrying heaping plates of French fries across the
thing which impressed us all was the fact that all
yard to the officers' quarters, an aged French newsboy
houses were built of stone, instead of wood as in our
standing at the gate blowing his fish horn and in-
own land. Every structure, no matter how small, was forming us that he had copies of Chicago Tribune for
of massive stone construction. All the roadways were
sale, and "Swiss Admiral" doing laundry business m
bordered on cither side by lines of trees; this custom,
liaison with a "frog" laundryman. The boys had a
we were told, was started by X'apoleon as a means basketball, which was in constant use whenever the
for giving his troops shade while on the march. Our weather and ground conditions would permit. Close
hikes usually came in the morning, and the after-
order baseball games were occasions of great interest.
noons, if pleasant, were taken up by drill in the market
Of all our hikes, the one we enjoyed most was the
place. Here, we spent many a weary hour trying to
become
last. On
that day Lieutenant Ruggles was in charge
efficient as a well drilled organization. Lieu-
and marched us up into the hills to the rear of the
tenants Hansell and Ruggles had some difficulty at
"range"; there we followed the paths in single file
first in getting us to maneuver as platoons, but after
until a broad, open hillside was reached, where we
numerous mix-ups and before our departure, the
broke ranks and spent a pleasant rest period by sing-
Squadron was able to keep a company front with the
ing familiar songs. The day was ideal. After the rest,
best of them.
we fell in, trailed down through the ravine and up the
Another lesson we had to learn was that of military
opposite hillside, which brought us directly into the
courtesy, and examinations in this art were given each
rear of the French rifle range, where practice was
member of the outfit before the commissioned officers. going on. We had progressed a little too far when the
Lieutenant Hansell surely found out how little some
machine guns opened fire in our direction, causing us
ol the men knew regarding such matters while ques-
to beat a hasty retreat. Upon our return to the bar-
tioning them in the little back room on the second racks we learned that the squadron bad orders to
floor of the officers' quarters. Lieutenant Ruggles leave for the front that same day at 2:00 p. m. This
learned numerous rules to be followed by sentinels was the moment had been looking forward to and
all
on guard duty, which he found impossible to locate
in short order everythingwas in motion. Mattresses
in the guard manual. Passes to the outside world
were brought and hastily emptied of their straw and
were to lie issued to those passing the examinations
coo-coos, blankets and packs were made up with as-
but they were never really issued.
tonishing rapidity, so that at the appointed hour all was
<)n 17th, word was received that our
February in readiness. The last to fall in were those who had
squadron number had been changed from the 118th been living m the hospital temporarily; they now
Aero Squadron to that of the 639th Aero Supplj flocked back to the ranks in all haste. Even as we
Squadron. It was hard to get used to. but 639 soon arrived at the station the last of the hospital birds
meant more to us than 118. fell in.

One pleasure which every man enjoys, at least semi- Upon our arrival at the railway station, we tried to
annually, is a good bath, but bathing facilities were guess which cars had been sidetracked for our special
few during our stay at St. Maixent. Hot or even warm use. Here again the prophets were misinformed, for
water was almost unobtainable, except upon two oc- after three hours ol patient waiting we were issued
casions when an effort was made to give us baths. "corn willie," tomatoes and hardtack, from the cook
For the first bath arrangements bad been made with car, that being the only part of the organization which
the proprietor of a hath house in the town to give us had entrained. The delay was occasioned by the im-
baths for one franc fifty each, and we were to go to the possibility on the part of our officers to secure better
bath house by squads. The first two squads marched accommodations for us than the box cars the French
there for this purpose, when orders were issued by offered us. Third-class carriages were promised for the
the medical officer that no more men would be taken to following morning, and as night was coming on we
the bath house because of the possibility of spreading marched out of the railway yard and spent the night
measles. This means of giving the men baths being at the onclaux Barracks, the same to which we had
(

forbidden, another method had to be devised, and this paid a visit on our arrival at St. Maixent a month pre-
was to heat our water in large G. I. cans. Each man vious. Here we were given quarters in a large stone
was allowed one bucketful of warm water, a small re- building adjoining the Cathedral. Chow was served
cess in the wall being used as a bath room. Here, for from a common kitchen and the great outdoors served
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 25
as a mess hall. We were lucky enough to obtain a to play an active role. A real American railway train,
second evening meal here, all eating heartily of the drawn by an honest-to-God American locomotive,
stew, the common dish at St. Maixent. greeted us on the last day of our trip with its never-
During the evening the Conclaux "Y" was heavily to-be-forgotten Yankee whistle, and gained our ap-
patronized. Hot chocolate and sandwiches could he plause. On this same day, we were treated to another
had, also accommodations for writing a last word home sight— falling snow. At the time of our departure from
before we left for we knew not where. Our sleeping St. Maixent, spring was coming swiftly on, sending

quarters consisted of a large room formerly used by out her greeting in color. Now our trip was taking
the soldiers of Napoleon, access being gained by the us into the snow country and a real snow storm was
most crooked and the darkest stairway it had ever been under way. We traveled on, not knowing our exact
our privilege to explore. Our bunks were not over destination, but upon arriving at Neufchateau all were
comfortable, but we managed to pass the night, and certain that our trip was fast approaching its end.
also the next day, in these barracks. That night, Feb- At the stations we saw soldiers of all colors and all

ruary 28th, at 11:00 p. m., we marched to the station nationalities; some seemed to be carrying more than
once more and found third-class carriages in place of their share of decorations, but four years of severe
the box ears. No time was lost in getting aboard, one
squad ol eight men to each compartment. Almost im-
mediately the peanut whistle blew and we were on our
way.
Preparations for a night's rest were begun at once,
but we soon found that eight men and their packs were
more than a single compartment on a French railway
train could accommodate comfortably. Eight men
cannot stretch out on the two narrow seats, at best only
large enough to hold them all in a sitting position, so
other means had to be devised. A few managed to
squeeze themselves under the seats, but in most cases
they soon came up for air. Others stretched out in the
narrow aisle of their respective compartments, serving
as foot rests for their comrades. Still others more
daring, and naturally not the heavyweights, found
resting places on the hatraeks over the seats. These
were by far the best locations, and best suited to the
long, slender individuals with a never-failing ability to
hang on, even during their sleeping hours. In these
various ways we managed to pass our three nights of
travel. Few slept because of the cramped quarters,
but no one complained, as we were all aware that
American soldiers traveling to the "Front" in France
could not expect accommodations similar to those to
he had in the States.

Our route led us through 'fours, Orleans, Troves,

Chaumont, Langrcs and Neufchateau. At Chaumont,
the G. H. Q. of the A. E. F., we made a stop upon the
viaduct, the highest and longest stone bridge that most Bridge over the Marne at Chaumont.
of us had ever seen. From our train upon the top of fighting gave many a man an opportunity to win all
this structure we could look across the city and down
the medals then existing. At last the word was passed
through the valley of the Marne, which at a future
along that the next station was our and that we would
day we were all to travel as dust-covered soldiers
detrain at that point. All was excitement now as the
returning from duty at the front. After leaving Chau-
train rolled into the little station at St. Germain in
mont, sights of unusual interest attracted us; numerous
troops, trains of French soldiers, an occasional Red
the Department ot Meuse. We looked out upon a broad

Cross Hospital train bringing its load of wounded and desolate expanse of river flats, broken onl\ by

back to the base hospitals, and large quantities of war the tree-bordered banks of the River Meuse, upon
material in process of being stored or transported. whose banks many a historic and bloody battle had
Everything was interesting, because it featured the been fought. As we stood upon the station platform
"big show" in which it was about to be our privilege we could look out across the snow-covered flats upon
 Qurches

git " dy ,,-j

[THE /S£)CT Ort£T h£'S uookxHO For f^rnce.

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POPULAR
OUT-OOOR
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 Ws 639TH AERO SQUADRON 27
the little village of Ourches, which we soon learned roofs. Tlie spending much time in our
prospect of
was to be our new home. new quarters was anything but pleasant, hut even at
that the freedom they offered us compared to the
Ourches
quarantine confinement of the previous month in bar-
Ourches-sur-Meuse is a small hamlet ten miles west
racks relieved our feelings considerably.
of Toul and six miles southeast of Commcrcy in the
Department of the Meuse. The Front was less than Our French friends seemed more than willing to
ten miles away. It was largely in this Department that meet us half way socially, and fortunate was the squad
the A. E. F. were given an entire sector, referred to that could count among its members one who had
as the Toul sector. To this advance zone of the A. E. studied French. Many of us had experiences similar
F. was the 639th assigned. to the following: It would be determined upon to
It was March 2, 1918, when we got off the train at pay the French family in the house a visit. A hold
St. Germain, and after a forty-minute hike through knock on the door would firing the "qui est la?". Upon
the deep, soft slush and snow, arrived in Ourches. entering as smilingly and as politely as possible we
We were met by Lieutenant Karl ("lark, the only Amer- were always invited to make ourselves at home, and a
ican officer then in the town, and were thus the first mediocre one-sided conversation would commence.
Americans to be quartered in Ourches. Naturally, the With the exception of our interpreters, we had to limit
French people looked us over with critical eyes. our part of the conversation to exclamations of "Oui,
oui," and to smiles intended to give the impression
Lieutenant Clark led us to our billets, which, to our
amazement, we found to be unused portions of barns, that we understood what was being said. The interior

lofts, and stables. But with grim humor every man of the abode was usually amazing to us in that

unslung his pack, selected his resting place and pre- it was and narrow, dark, cold, and cheerless,
so small

pared himself a bed of straw, of which there was but clean. Our minds would wander back to our
plenty in each loft. Many of the more adventurous school days, wherein had been painted for us the

of our number spent the evening exploring the town.
It took but twenty minutes to make a complete circuit.
All the confection shops, wine shops and cafes were
carefully located, with a view to the great dav when
our overdue pay would be handed to us. Because of
picture of great and friendly France. Xo teaching had
prepared us for such poor scenes of home life. How-
ever, we were usually billeted with the poorer peasants,
so these impressions were not at all general. Evenings
spent with our French friends were always happy

our several moves, we were a month behind in pay, evenings. The hosts, with their rapid-fire French, plied us

and nearly every man was broke or very badly bent. with questions bearing on the United States and what

In the billeting the squads were kept together, and we expected to accomplish. The children invariably
gathered around us and begged for "tabac, cigaret,
thus a few squads bad the good fortune of being
chocolat." Those fifty centime "French-English" con-
assigned an empty room or two next to those occupied
versation books came to be worth their weight in gold
by the peasant owners. Dingy rooms and lofts they were
to us, and many had progressed far enough to agree
on the whole and reeked with stable odors. But, wonder
to return "ce soir et manger oeufs beaucoup." The
of wonders most of these squalid looking houses, and
!

hosts, of course, brought out their best wines, and no

even the barns, were equipped with electric lights, evi-
dently introduced by an aggressive salesman of a nearby
one was known to refuse any of it. A more enjoyable
evening than the first one
Ourches had not been
in
hydro-electric plant. It seems that in the small ham-
experienced since our arrival in France; not only
lets the homes, stables, and barns are built under one
entertaining, but instructive, it was, for while our
roof, and cows, horses, poultry, and human occupants
Not infrequently when a sol- presence was still a novelty, our hosts told us much of
use the same entrance.
dier would grope along a dark hallway toward his
themselves, the war, and France.

quarters he would be met by the family stock on its Our first night in the billets acquainted us with the
way out. Those squads assigned to lofts and stables ubiquitous rat rustling among the straw, water drip-
had difficulty in dodging rain coming through the leaky- ping through leaky roofs as the snow melted, and the

riflM 100KIT
JEM TREES
he y- On out)
i

V rS^TER HEKfJ
/(

l\;>

#1.
28 639TH AERO SQUADRON
drone of night-flying aeroplanes. One squad reported a squadron employed in transportation and mechanical
the nextmorning that its French neighbors were much lines alone, and because many of us still hoped for
alarmed and rushed about the house crying, "Boche! that Hying training promised so faithfully by the re-
Boche!" but if it was an enemy plane we didn't know cruiting sergeant some months before. No one ever
it. The novelty of a night-bombing airplane flying pictures an Aero Squadron licking the Hun with pick
over us, and of the continuous thundering of heavy and shovel. Although the subject was discussed all
.yuns at the not far distant Front, was of such great day, pleasure was uppermost in each man's mind, for
interest and conjectures gave way to awe,
that fears it was the first day of liberty since we left Kelly Field

wonder, and impatience to see more. We learned over two months before. Some of the men disported
later that it was very common for Boche planes to fly themselves like young horses just turned out into a
over Ourches and that the village had indeed been pasture after a bard week in harness; others tried to
bombed a year before. Indeed, upon our arrival in drown their sorrows in this or that, and one man
( lurches we found an increasing anxiety on the part actually landed in the river by mistake. Still others
of its inhabitants that the great activity of the enemy bent on seeing things explored the surrounding coun-
the two weeks previous would increase and end with try as far as Vaucouleurs. It was a long and great
a bombing raid because of the presence of
destructive day and everyone did as his fancy dictated.
American troops. To the nervous natives, every plane By Monday morning the snow had almost disap-
that hummed overhead was a Boche plane. However, peared. We
were divided into groups, armed with
we soon learned that the Boche visits were far less picks and shovels, and marched to the scene of our
numerous than they supposed. As for ourselves, we new activity. Our first task was to excavate bases for
soon learned to distinguish between the bum of the barracks and to transfer some lumber to the building
various types of motors, and thus learned to welcome sites. But few of the men had ever done excavating
the sound of a Handley-Page or an F. E. by night, before, and then only at Kelly Field, most of the men
and that of the Nieuport and Spad by day. The hum being mechanics and clerks. The more politic ones
of a Mercedes motor always brought a crowd of ill- grieved over the fact that war compelled them to dis-
wishing soldiers looking skyward. turb the beautiful surface of mother earth with such
( >ur first Sunday inOurches deserves special men- menial instruments as picks and shovels. The first few r

tion. In the morning, inspection, we were informed

at days produced some effect on the earth's surface, and
by the C. O. that we were to start the construction of more inway of blisters on our hands. But it was
the
an American flying field on the edge of town, to be our and being among the first 200,000 of the
duty,
occupied by three observation squadrons as soon as A. E. F. to land in France, we had to expect to help
completed. We were also told that the work had to in the construction work. And work we did. Nobody
be rushed, and that while was a disappointment to
it ever worked harder. An important compensating
all, officers and men alike, it was necessary work and feature in construction work is that one can see bis

must be done by someone; and that we were serving results grow, and our results grew rapidly.
the cause just as well in construction work as in any During week at Ourches, another squadron—
the first
other kind of work. It was heart-breaking news to all the 465th Aero Construction Squadron arrived, fully —
of us, especially because we bad dreamed of becoming equipped with all manner of construction equipment.

Street Scene in < lurches

 ;
-i jl

639 th Billets and Headquarters - Ourcbes

Cathedral at
St. Maixent

River Meuse offer a flood — Ourch&s

--

•*&.

A-
1
***^"**!! ' -^m^rm^ __
«*****« , .

MarKet place — drill

around — SfMabeent
Artillery passing thru Camp from the Front
 ;

30 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON

For thirteen weeks the 639th and -koth worked side the day when Lieutenant Barnaby in endeavoring to

In side, and always with the best of good will and co- fly out of the valley near the mess ball struck our tin

operation. We found them capable and agreeable house, gave Canaday, its only occupant, the surprise of
companions. A lew days later, a company of the 119th his life,and caused the plane to turn upside down; and
Machine dun Battalion arrived to assist ns, but they the day when we beard the rattle of a machine gun
remained but a short time. This company later dis- overhead, only to see a Boche plane fall in flames.
tinguished itself as part of the 32nd Division. How curious everj oik- was that day to go to the scene
Barracks and hangars were put up in record time, just to see what a dead German looked like. And who

and by April 1st the field had been near enough com- will forget how Lieutenant Thaw in "taking off"

pleted to receive the first of its quota of observation skimmed the top of Coale's tractor, tearing off the
squadrons. The 1st Aero Squadron arrived first, and steering wheel and causing Coale to duck for cover;
a few weeks later came the 12th. As the barracks or how Rhodes was saved from a watery grave by
were completed, the 639th and 465th gave up their brave Eddie Connor; or the days of the big
little

cheerless billets and moved into the board barracks, drives, how crowded the roads were with miles and

much to the glee of all concerned. It was pleasant miles of camions and artillery and soldiers. Who
at the field. The camp siteoverlooked the now beau- will forget the false alarms of air raids, when we

tiful green valley of the Mense and the partially wooded were ordered to work with our tin derbies and gas
hillsides. masks handy; or the night just before we left
Ourches, when the batteries opened up on a sup-
With the arrival of the two observation squadrons,
posed German raider. It was too interesting to
and later the meteorological men with their small
rush for a dugout. And then who will not recall
toy baloons and the pigeon men with their traveling
the happy days when the water tank had to be filled
"coops" and flocks of homing pigeons, interest in sur-
in St. Germain; or the days spent on McGovern's
roundings and in the conduct of the war became intense.
wood-cutting detail or "summer outing" camp; or
Furthermore, the squadron had now actually accum-
the Sundays in Yaucouleurs, the baths in Toul, the
ulated eight motor trucks, a touring car, and several
mademoiselles in St. Germain, the diving hoard on
motorcycles, so that every man obtained an oppor-
the river, the "cheap" confections one could buy in
tunity either as chauffeur or as part of a "loading
( lurches, bones after taps, and stud
rolling the
detail" to see much of the surrounding country. Some
poker? But who wants to remember excavating
went close to the trenches, others to the far Alsace
bases for barracks and hangars in a cold rain on a
front, and many got to Nancy. Toul, and Bar-le-Duc.
Sunday, or splitting solid limestone rock in the
That planes were now actually working over the dugouts, digging trenches for a pipe line, digging
front lines with our field as a base inspired us to
an ammunition pit, hauling" rocks off a steep slope
greater effort. It was a tangible evidence that we by wheelbarrow to the rock crusher before the nar-
were accomplishing something. Daily the ships of the row-gauge tracks were laid, peeling spuds for Hogan,
1st and 12th would fly over the lines to take photo-
groping at night along streets kept dark to deceive
graphs of the enemy's positions or activities, or to act the Huns, the morning after pay day, corn willie.
in liaison with the Infantry or assist the big guns in
Mistered hands, sore backs, etc.?
regulating the direction of their fire. When they came
But back to the earlier days: On March
to get
back from a trip, those of us who could would gather
27th we moved into the barracks, and great was the
close to the pilot or observer and listen to the story
rejoicing. A few days later we moved into our new
of his day's experiences. When planes returned rid-
kitchen. The original kitchen was but an abandoned
dled with bullets it brought the actuality of it all home
vehicle shed, at one time part of a winery. It was a
to us very vividly. The 1st Aero Squadron was equipped
good makeshift, at that, but it was unpleasant to
with biplace Spads, while the 12th had to get along
have to stand in line and eat in the rain. Our
temporarily with old A. R.'s. None of us will forget
officers ate with us, although they found a dark store-
the days when ships never returned from a trip, or the
room for shelter and a barrel for a table. Our new
days when aviators were killed accidentally on our own
barracks were set deeply into the hillside and cam-
field; how quiet and sad the camp was on such days!
Hut there were days that were full of excitement
ouflaged with boughs. In the barracks we were all

together and were brought into intimate association

such as when Boche ventured too far into the Amer-
a
ican lines and was chased by our Nieuports, or when
with one another. Here we spent the happiest days
the allied anti-aircraft batteries opened up with a bar- and nights of our army life. Heie we became bud-
rage around a high-flying Boche, only to puncture and dies and confided to each other our past histories, our

dot the sky with hundreds of balls of smoke. On such ambitions, and plans. Here we wrote our letters,

occasions we would yell as though it were a baseball before tables were placed in the mess hall. Here
game. Also, we would wear our tin derbies to protect Holley ran a small but well stocked canteen for us.
us against the falling shell fragments. Then there was so that we were well supplied with American cigars,
 ®e 639TH AERO SQUADRON 31

cigarettes, canned fruit, and chocolate. For lights running water installed. But there also came an
we worried along' with candles, although electric order to move. Such is army life; you get settled,

lights were installed the week we moved away from then acquainted, everything runs smoothly, and in

Ourches. All the windows were draped with black comes a G. H. Q. order to move on. Not that one
curtains at night, that no light might penetrate to minds the moving if the change brings more ex-
the outside and give a possible Boche raider a clue citement or more useful work, but the anxiety is
to our location. On several occasions we anxiously wearying.
awoke and tearing and crashing, to
to hear a ripping On May, we received orders to
the 23rd day of
find that the wind had ripped off our roof and left proceed Amanty, headquarters of the first bomb-
to
us exposed to the rain. ing group. That evening the men gathered at their

men would favorite "hangouts" and discussed what the future

Daily, after supper, or before, the
wander home to a friendly fire-
might hold in store. All regretted to leave the best
to town, each to his
place and a free meal, or to his favorite "old standby,"
camp in It was the best, and we don't
the A. E. F.
say because we built it. It was not stuck in the
it
either Lucy's cafe, where the biggest woman in
town moved around with the grace of an elephant, woods nor in a mudhole, and it was close to a small
village, a good river, and what is most important,
or to the little grocery to fight off the temptation of
buying at the owner's price, or to listen to tales of close to the big war — as close as a flying field could

the war. Then was the "tabac" store down

there
hope to be. From the Hying field we could see the

by the bridge, frecjuented by those who thirsted for quarries at Commercy, the road to St. Mihiel and

knowledge or a pleasant chat with a chic mademoiselle. Verdun, the line of observation balloons behind the
trenches, our planes flying over the lines and back in
Many of the men won promotions at Ourches.
daytime and the star shells at night. Always we
The hard work and trying conditions soon brought
could hear the thunder of artillery in action, the
out the true character and worth of each man, and
roar of planes overhead, and see the endless streams
it was told us that if a man would not shirk such
of troops bound for the front.
unpleasant and heavy duties as construction work
involves he would lie valuable anywhere and could
Now we were to move even further from the war,

hold a promotion. It was work that developed char- to Amanty this time, about fifteen kilometers to the

acter as well as muscle, and even though promotion

south of On the morning of the 24th we climbed
us.

came slowly to some, their records at Ourches were into and were off.
trucks About twenty men were
ordered to remain at Ourches with Lieutenant Han-
always big factors in determining whether or not
sell and our transportation equipment for two weeks
they could hold a promotion.
As the glorious month of May drew to a close we longer, to finish hauling lumber, gas, etc. On June 9,

saw our days at Ourches grow shorter. The wildest when we made our next move, these men rejoined us

speculation was indulged in as to what our next with the trucks and equipment.

step would be and whether it would be a continua- Amanty

tion of construction work or a chance to become a The camp at Amanty was hidden by
a forest, making
service squadron like the 1st and 12th. The Y. M. the outlook from the barracks rather dull. However,
C. A. by this time had erected a hut and started en- our work was to be of a higher class than heretofore
tertainments, the Red Cross put up a large building, and that was worth a lot. We constructed a hangar,
a real bath house was built, and electric lights and worked in the machine shop as mechanics, drove

A. R.'s in Collision Near Ourches.

 '""Bb

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 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 33

trucks, and overhauled airplane motors. It was here dukes of Bourgogne having selected this town for
that the "flu" epidemic found us and caused us to their abode from the 10th to the 15th centuries, making
patronize sick crowds. At one time, sixty-seven
call in it the capital of their territory. Commerce and indus-
of us had the and the barracks were turned into
flu try thrived under the Bourgognes, until the havoc of
a sick ward. Happily, it lasted but a few days and no continued wars, oppressive measures, and excessive
one suffered seriously. Here, also, some of the men taxation finally destroyed the weaving industry that
received their first opportunities to ride as passengers had previously been so lucrative.
in airplanes, and many were the wild letters written Even today, several large factories are in operation
Imnie in description of the experience. Hopes of the there, three of them having devoted their entire facili-
would-be aviators rose high while at Amanty. The ties to the production of munitions throughout the entire

Y. M. C. A. at Amanty was a "stunner," with big period of hostilities. The town proper comprises two
Jim Goodheart in charge; pool tables, piano, phono- distinct districts —
the Chaumont, or newer section, and
graph, lounging chairs, magazines and newspapers, and the Bourg, or ancient section, the latter replete with
a counter where there were plenty of cookies, hot important scenes of great historical interest.
chocolate, and smokes. There were movies, vaudeville, The River Seine, which has its source 30 kilometers
and a real live American girl to talk to. distant, separates the town, one
before traversing
Pleasant as were the few days at Amanty, we didn't stream passing through the main section of Chatillon.
regret it when orders came to proceed to Chatillon-sur- One of the most scenic spots in the vicinity is the
Seine, for with the orders came the rumor that at last source of the River Douix. It flows from under a
we were to train as airplane mechanics, and perhaps cliff of solid rock, 100 feet in height.
later return to the Front with planes. With light
Strange indeed must have been the impression made
hearts, we packed our bags and started for our new
on the French people of Chatillon by our men, be-
home in our own trucks.
decked with the dust of a day's travel. It was necessary
was an ideal day. but very
It dusty. The journey
to drive through the principal streets of the town to
was of some 120 kilometers, and lay through Neufcha-
arrive at the aviation field, which was located on a
teau, Domremy, the birthplace of Joan of Arc,
past
higher level than the town, about one kilometer south-
through Chaumont and Chateau Villain. Hogan and
east of the Bourg section of Chatillon.
Ins "can-openers" started ahead of us. It was already-
The mess sergeant, with his crew, had arrived as
after noon when, after passing through Chaumont
a sort of vanguard, and several of his helpers were
with still several hours ahead of us and a gnawing
already exploring the town as our camion train drove
sensation in the region of our stomachs, we came upon
through. A decidedly superficial observation of the
the very welcome Hogan's truck drawn up
sight of
town on the part of the late arrivals drew rather favor-
alongside the road, and his "can-openers" guarding a
able comment, but everyone was anxious to get settled
table loaded with bread, jam, and corned willie, and a
before devoting serious attention to the burg. Hence,
steaming G. I. can of coffee. No meal was ever eaten
itwas with intense satisfaction that the boys, for the
with greater relish, and even corned willie himself was
most part unrecognizable, a result of the white dust,
honored by a second round. So unexpected was this
an inevitable sequence to a day's ride over French
handout, and so much appreciated, that we voted never
roads in dry weather, clambered off the camions, shout-
to call our cooks "can-openers" again.
ing for assignment to billets and something to appease
Chatillon-Sur-Seine the appetites that had been for the most part neglected
It was Saturday evening, June 8th, when
six o'clock during the course of the day's travel.

the leading elements of our camion train rolled into It required hut little time to learn from the men of
Chatillon-sur-Seine, bearing a very hungry, dust- the 89th Squadron, the only squadron already at the
covered bunch of 639ers. Chatillon is a town of about Post, who had anticipated our arrival at least two
5000 inhabitants, located in the Department of Cote months previously, that there was located there a very-
d'Or, 80 kilometers northwest of the historic city of large Infantry Officers' School ; though the aeronau-
Dijon, and 70 kilometers southeast of the once famous tical school was still a small feature, boasting only four
city of Troves. A short distance beyond the town hangars housing 24 A. R. airplanes and an Adrian
limits, view of the ruins of the chateau of the
in full barracks, quarters for the 89th, and a circular hospital
dukes of Bourgogne, we were soon to settle for a hut. utilized for a mess shack. A rather dilapidated
more protracted period than we had anticipated, and tent served as a "Y," where Webster did his utmost to
much less desired. Our greatest ambition at that time satisfy the wants of the boys.
was to return to the Front as soon as feasible with After an exchange of ideas with the men of the
our own airplanes and pilots. Thusly, we thought to 89th, prospects among men
squadron for
the of our
accomplish the greatest good and most effective work- real homes with the Chatillonais we thought were very
to ruin the Boche. discouraging if the boys at the Infantry School were
Chatillon is a prominent name in French history, the half as active as were the 639th at Ourches. However,
HHBHHH

A stop enroute, flmonKj -Chotillon

ttoqan's dusty "can openers

 ;

36 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON

\u' assumed an optimistic view of our new environment inently on the list than the others. The ruling in effect
and were determined, as we had acquired the habit that all men be in by nine o'clock was an innovation
from McBride of Missouri, to be shown, or to be con- hardly appreciated, after enjoying the liberties which
tent only with the result of our own investigations. Ourches had afforded us.

Once separated from the greater part of the French The Aeronautical School at Chatillon was originally

real estate we had so involuntarily acquired, the mess intended to be but a minor feature of the Second Corps
sergeant barked out a summons for chow, which con- Schools grouped there. The object for which the Aero
sisted, thai evening, of the customary short order Army School had been established had in view the final train-
menu — cold corned willie, pickles, bread, and the ing of aerial observers prior to their assignment to

inevitable coffee. Even this prosaic bill of fare received active service "over the lines."

unusual attention, so hungry was the bunch after the The course offered comprised Aerial Photography,
fatiguing day's journey. Artillery Reglage, Aerial Gunnery, and Infantry
Liaison three weeks of good weather sufficing to
Chow finished, inadequate accommodations necessi- ;

complete the final training, provided the aspirant had

tated sending all except 40 of the men over to the
successfully qualified in all these important branches,
Patronage Barracks, where several companies of In-
The Patronage in- and favorable weather conditions had prevailed during
fantry students were quartered.
that time. Practically speaking, it might have been
closurecomprised several large, antiquated buildings,
properly termed a "Finishing School for Observers,"
typicalof simple French architecture, and several
inasmuch as anyone capable of filling all school require-
Adrian barracks, one of which was assigned for our
ments in the various topics could be depended upon to
occupancy.
go successfully on missions over the lines.
Dark had already settled before we arrived at the
Eleven officers comprised the first class of graduates,
Patronage inclosure, and after each man had carted in
which fact offers an idea as to the capacity of the
three or four bunks, then recovered his barracks bag
School as we found it on our arrival there. Four
from the general confusion before locating definitely
hangars, a supply hut, a Swiss hut for a radio office,
for the night, the hour was too late to permit an
men a Swiss hut for headquarters, two Adrian barracks for
exploration of the town, so the majority of the
Those
much needed student observers, and one for officers' mess, and three
"bit the hay" to enjoy a rest.
barracks occupied by the 89th Squadron, were the only
who deferred filling their bed sacks with straw imme-
buildings which had been erected prior to our coming.
diately after it arrived, were "SOL" when the fact
dawned upon them that they had neglected to do so. Plans for extension had been formulated, and we
For these, there was no alternative but to pass the were to be instrumental in assisting to materialize the

night as comfortably as possible on the hard boards. first part of them. On Monday, June 10th, work on
Practically everybody was feeling as fit as ever the foundations and construction of our barracks and mess
next morning, and the Patronage detail (as those of us hall commenced in earnest, the entire work being
who billeted there were known ) inarched over to the completed, save for the installation of bunks, on the
field, garbed in fatigue clothes, to get breakfast and 14th, having required only four days to prepare foun-
commence work on the foundations for our barracks, dations and to erect three Adrian barracks. A detail

which had been very quickly laid off by Captain Fritz. built and bunks on the arrival of material a
installed

Several of the boys that morning inaugurated the few days later. That our Ourches experience had not
custom of dining with the doughboys, which afforded been amiss is evident from the excellent results ob-
them good eats and leisure time to jaunt over to work. tained here. Those who at Ourches had played a
Inasmuch as our first day in Chatillon was a Sunday, heavy roll in the drama of "Licking the Kaiser" donned
only half the men were detailed to work in the fore- their togs again, while with the same picks and shovels

noon, remainder replacing the

the morning workers and "Irish Capronis," but with a new incentive (that
in the Thusly, everyone had opportunity
afternoon. of obtaining a service squadron basis "toute de suite"),
to "once over" the town, comparing observations that they arrived at objectives with greater speed than they
evening. did up Front.

The bunch, with Buck Atwell on the job, succeeded June and brouettes were returned
15th, picks, shovels,
in erecting a small tent, which served temporarily as to the supply tent without asemblance of regret, and
a kitchen, and a larger one, utilized for supply and approximately a hundred men were assigned to work
orderly room. The latter was devoted to this same on the flying field. The squadron was lined up and
purpose during our entire sojourn in Chatillon, going classified according to previous experiences, the nature
to salvage only when we packed our bags and made of the work
which each was assigned harmonizing
to
ready to quit the place. with adaptability.
individual Some found themselves
That first Sunday, several had already cultivated the very much at ease in the machine shop, E. & R. shop,
acquaintance of some of the town celebrities, Countess radio department, armory, and others on airplane crews
de Big John and Madam Sho Sho figuring more prom- all to work in conjunction with, though for the present
 Jitaillon
^MrVeirip

"VIVE Lfl CHAr/UON"

2nd C.fi.S* Transportation Deph Dotvrrfol! of a -Sop
 ^e639TH AERO SQUADRON 39

under supervision of, the members of the 89th Squad- Lieutenant Robbins and his observer were burned to
ron, until such time as 639's capability to assume full death after a fall following a forced landing at the
charge should evince itself. At that time, the 89th Infantry School.
expected to return to the Front with their own quota of The obsequies were held the next afternoon, and u e
airplanes and pilots, when we were to succeed them in witnessed our first military funeral in France. Work
e\ cry department on the field. Though our men qual- was declared day and both squadrons formed
off for the
ified quickly, the 89th did not make its departure, plans in a procession. A Fiat truck, sides dismounted, and
developing differently and the continued expansion of covered over with white cloth, draped in black, served
the school required them to remain. Our new work in place of a caisson. The procession formed in front
was to consist in keeping planes in commission. Cap- of the Hotel de Yille, the French undertakers making
tain Falk informed us from the start that a plane was a very droll appearance in their high-top hats covered
either in commission, or not, and our duty was to with black oilcloth, as they busied themselves pre-
avoid the "not" as consistently as possible. To realize paratory to the march to the cemetery.
was sometimes necessary to pull a block or two
this, it Leading the procession was the Mayor of Chatillon,
on a motor, grind valves, and keep the motor and followed by some of the prominent Chatillonais and
ship in perfect "flying" condition with a minimum loss French The various uniforms of the French
officers.
of time. Work, thoroughly executed, would preclude Officers and Veterans of 1870 contrasted greatly, af-
the possibility of serious accidents due to mechanical fording a real interesting spectacle. Then came a
causes.
—
detachment of Infantry the firing squad — followed by
It was with regret we learned two weeks after our the pilots and observers from the school.
arrival at Chatillon that Lieutenants Hansell, Mulhol- The truck followed, heaped with floral pieces almost
land, and Gillett were, at their own requests, to return
concealing from view the caskets draped in Old Glory.
to the Infantry. The Squadron presented each of them Following this were our two squadrons and many
with a gold signet ring, in expression of its esteem and French civilians.
regard. All three succeeded in returning to the scene
After the usual simple but impressive ceremony over
of real activities, Lieutenant Mulholland earning the
the grave, a fellow-aviator flew over the cemetery and
privilege of displaying a wound chevron, due to an
dropped flowers on the grave of his unfortunate com-
encounter with a stray piece of Boche "H. E." Lieu-
rades.
tenants Snow and Mckinley remained with the outfit,
Our work on the field had offered numerous op-
the former being assigned to the Post Supply, while
portunities to take trips in the planes, and interesting
the latter acted in the capacity of Post Censor and
indeed is the experience of the first ride above the
Intelligence Officer until placed in command of the 89th
clouds. Those awful forebodings prior to the "taking
Squadron in January, 1919, previous to its departure
off,"only to be pleasantly disappointed by finding the
for "Home."
ground leaving one and the objects becoming smaller
Making friends among the Chatillonais proved a and smaller, without even the slightest ill effects, are
facile matter, some of the boys meeting fair Frog now pleasant memories. But, if the motor had failed
maidens, others assuming the obligations of providing or the ship had fallen into a nose spin, what then?
smokes for just so many additional subjects of Presi- Then a pleasant whizzing through space for an in-
dent Poincaire and supporters "I the tri-colqr. Eating definite period. Finally, after a few tight spirals to
course dinners where a permit to do so was required, lose altitude, with the ground looking up over the side,
buying bread "sans ticket," were quickly enacted came the descent, a successful landing, and the convic-
without the so-called necessary permit or "ticket" tion that flying is the only thing, with a desire to
by those who knew a little French, and likewise by mount again at first opportunity. It was not long until

those who knew it not so well. Prime favorites with frequent flights became a part of the daily routine and
the hospitable people of Ourches, the 639ers were soon all thought of hazard was forgotten.
strongly entrenched in the affections of their newly 10th, our Squadron had not only taken over
By July
made Chatillon friends, and reciprocal courses in several airplanes, but was in full charge of two hangars,
French and English were established in short order. with the 89th Squadron in charge of the other two,
Chateaus were not requisites for those who wished to responsibility being evenly divided in hangar number
master the difficulties of the English lingo, the echoes, five.

in a soprano voice, emanating from mere "somethings" Work on the field offered everybody an equal oppor-
that might be described as "Holes-in-the-Wall." If the tunity for promotion and the number of non-coms
mademoiselles progressed as rapidly as did our men, increased monthly. Chatillon is ample evidence of the
Chatillon would speak English as extensively as degree of success attained by the members of the
French, after the signing of the Peace Pact. Squadron in the various departments to which they
About a month after our arrival at Chatillon we wit- had been assigned. The lectures given by Captain
nessed the first fatal accident at the school when Falk were of real benefit to the men of the Squadron,
 The old wasty stand

TTie snail § lobster

arte
63S th quarters at ChaH/lon
(?oad fo Camp
 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 41

all some measure by them, as the continued

profiting in comers were rather disappointed on learning of the
improvement in the work on the field clearly indicated. construction work that lay before them, but set to
Though "beaucoup" pep was necessary in the work, work determined to make the best of it. Then it was
we also found much time with hut little to occupy our- we felt that we "had it" on the new bunch. We had
selves. If a ship was out on a mission or not on spentall our time in France; had labored up on the
schedule, the might he seen dozing in the sun
crew Toul Front, and now we were capably acquitting our-
under the wings of an aeroplane, while some others selves of the duties of a Service Squadron, our previous
were boiling clothes, utilizing a "blow torch" against work and present occupations warranting us the priv-
the side of a bucket to furnish the heat. ilege ofwatching the "other fellow" do his bit with the
Intense interest was aroused by the arrival, almost —
instruments of torture the pick and shovel.
daily, of a strange plane from some other field, coming They assisted in erecting additional barracks, hangars,
for a replenishment of "essence" or stopping over for and shops, while 639ers regarded themselves as
the night while on a long ferrying trip. Practically
having graduated from such duties. We certainly had
every type of airplane from a French baby Spad and had our full share of such work. Complete machine,
English Sop Camel to a Handley-Page bomber and E. & R., and overhaul simps were built, a power house
Caproni bomber made a our field. When either
call at
installed, and newer and more commodious quarters
of the mentioned type sailed in for gas or oil,
last
constructed for the Photo, Radio, and Training De-
everyone was as scarce as possible, as it signified almost partments.
a full drum of "essence" and beaucoup "huile" entailing
The number of hangars increased from 5 to 15,
beaucoup labor.
housing a total, at one time, exceeding 100 planes.
Whenever a plane made a forced landing forty kilo-
Many of our men shared in producing for the Engi-
meters or so away from camp, and wrecked up suf-
neering Department one of the most enviable reputations
ficiently to necessitate dismantling it, the crew proceeded
for efficiency among the Air Service schools and
to get their blankets and make ready for a night out in
instruction centers in the A. E. F.
some field near some live town. The salvage trip then
assumed more of a picnic aspect than a work trip. A By the end of August, the positions of responsibility

plane was always an attraction to the people in the in the diverse departments on the field were evenly
vicinity where it landed, and when the mechanics ar- divided between the 89th and 639th Squadrons, a fact

rived on the scene they invariably found a crowd of in itself an excellent tribute to the caliber of men in the

Frogs there to greet them. The work of tearing down 639th. The and 370th worked in on the
157th field

and loading a plane on a trailer was of short duration after the construction work had been completed.

and usually not very difficult, the men then proceeding Each succeeding month witnessed additional promo-
to "once over" the town and its offerings. Just such tions, and by November practically all ratings author
trips caused many to study French, "billet-douxs" be- ized a Supply Squadron had been given out. Unfor-
coming quite popular. No one failed to indulge in a tunately, the efforts to have the squadron changed to
real home-cooked dinner when out on these trips, the a service basis had not as yet met with success, thus
people showing our men wonderful hospitality at all depriving many men of deserved ratings which a supply
times. organization was not permitted to make. This condi-
Late in August came the 20th Company, 4th Regi- tion, however, gave birth to a new clan "The Non- —
ment, Motor Mechanics, who were assigned to crews —
Chauffing Chauffeurs" and some who had once sat
on the field and in the shops under our men. Their in an automobile were now privileged to sport the
advent marked the beginning of a substantial enlarge- wheel on the right sleeve. Norton, who made the P. M.
ment of the school, the plans adopted providing for an detail famous with the morning and afternoon colla-
increase in its training capacity from IS students per tions from the officers' mess, which he provided for
month to 180. the members of this distinguished detail, eventually had
Sopwith training airplanes arrived in large numbers this distinction conferred upon him. Another member
about this time, the number of planes on the field of the famous P. M. detail finally attained the rankness
having shown a decided increase in accordance with of "H. P." Buck Atwell, after he had relinquished the
the general extension plans. About that time, "Liberty "Top Kick's" berth, received the title of "Chauffeur" or
1000" landed at our field en route to the Front and "Knight of the Bath," and from that time, until his
caused considerable excitement and interest among the premature departure for home in December, confined
men. After repeatedly hearing so many unfavorable his efforts to making the hoys comfortable in the bath
reports anent the Liberty motor, it was indeed a treat house. We also lost Temple, Arlington, Shields, Steven-
to realize that we already had 1000 of these splendid son, Dorney, and Sheiler, who were transferred and
ships playing their part in giving theBoche his due. sent home after a siege in the hospital. Stevenson
In September, the 157th and 370th Squadrons arrived accidentally received a bullet in the leg. Shields's
from England and commenced immediately to material- injuries were due to a propeller striking him. Bill
ize some of the proposed developments. The new- Brandt, Steen, Childers, and Traw were transferred to
 Morcme monoplane
Sopuoi t h observation
-

5afm5on - observation

Liberty fit 1000

15 meter Nieuport

Caproni Tri-rnotor bomber

Col Benedict in a racy 5£r5 First Liberty at Chattllon

44 •8k? 639TH AERO SQUADRON
the 1101th Squadron. Brandt, we regret to say, was it was here that we had our greatest amusement. In

reported to have died suddenlj at Lemans while await- July, the first group of Permissionaires from the
ing orders home. Squadron hied unexpectedly off to Aix-les-Bains in

It is with justifiable pride that we entertain the quest of whatever a "leave" might offer a Yank. From
thought that not one of the fatal crashes on our field that time on the men became more familiar with the
occurred in a plane having a member of the 639th ways of the French, this knowledge improving as we
for crew chief. We had the lowest percentage of neared our second service chevron. Since the first
accidents for so large a number of flying hours, as
leave, our delegations have visited practically all the
compared with the records of the various training
leave centers, including St. Malo, Grenoble, Allevard-Ies-
centers of the A. E. F.
I'.ains, Nice, Monte Carlo, Monaco, Lucon, and Men-
On November 1st "DeHaviland -1" planes, equipped tone. The recollections of Dijon, Paris, Lyons, Mar-
with Liberty motors, began to arrive at the field to be and some of the smaller cities are fixed in the
seilles,
utilized for training purposes. They proved a vast memory of everyone, each for a very different reason,
improvement over the Sops and A. R.\ which, from ranging through the entire eligibility list from Yvette
thence on, began gradually to disappear, Liberties to Marguerite. Each returning permissionaire might
replacing them as soon as the slower planes were worn write a most interesting volume all his own of his ex-
out. periences and no two would read similarly. No one had
The high efficiency of the Engineering Department forgotten Heinrich's loquacity during the two weeks
under Captain McLeod's regime, the ingenuity exercised succeeding his return to the "simple life." We all

in equipping its shops, the skill of its personnel in learned bow be met the Duchess, his irresistible, taking
maintaining the ships, and the spirit of loyalty, har- manner captivating her on their first meeting. He told

mony, and sense of responsibility, were a creditable us, also, how lie attended a banquet at the Chateau of
reflection on the men of our Squadron, who filled the the Duchess which Secretary of War Baker and Gen-
majority of the responsible positions. The work per- eral honored with their presence, and that when
Bliss

formed by our men was directly instrumental in the the Secretary asked him for a match, how munificently
development of a feeling of confidence on the part of he acted on that occasion when he said, "Here, Secre-
pilots and observers, to secure which was a severe test tary, keep the box." After this hobnobbing with the
of our efficiency as well as conducive to their best aristocracy, we know why he captivated the affections
efforts in the air. of a famous opera prima donna. Of., course, all the

ships on the field was men did not enjoy the same prestige, but all succeeded
The almost unbroken line of

another evidence of the merits of 639's mechanical in making pleasant acquaintances and learned much of
condition, the France's most attractive parts. Heinrich himself, on
ability. If a ship were not in flying

prevalent custom ordered it several feet in the rear of bis second leave, pursued an entirely different policy
necessary repairs had been made. In a from that of bis first "permission." He contended
the line till
that his hobnobbing with the "bluebloods" on his first
short time, a change of a wheel, or the replacement of
leave bad exhausted his financial resources, so for his
all or a part of a wrecked landing gear, was speedily

effected. Efficiency and speed in such minor details pocket's own benefit be eschewed the high-brows and
enjoyed himself more, at less expense to himself, on
enabled the greater number of ships to be in commis-
his second leave, without any excessive search.
sion all the time, earning a reputation for the Squadron
and for the school, too. Occasionally, some incidental Every man found the sort of diversion most
easily

work demanded recognition, as was the case after the attractive to him. What
the Squadron personnel didn't
unexpected rain and windstorm one night in September. know about the gay "London House" or "Berthouxs
A storm broke without sending any harbinger, and when Inn" at Lyons does not exist. The "Pension des Ar-
the wind had ceased its howling and Pluvius called tistes,"where the comely French movie stars and young
"time" we took stock of the damage done. Practically artists their abode, was penetrated by E. deGray
make
every barrack in camp was minus several sections of Read and Galtes. Very likely the "de" in Read's cog-
roof, while sheet iron plates were scattered about nomen was the powerful influence that overcame staid
everywhere in the vicinity of the circular huts. The European conventionalities, gaining admittance to these
"Y" tent was blown down and torn considerably, as precincts, inasmuch as "de" is tacked on to the mon-
was also the orderly tent. The morning after, details nickers of the aristocracy on this side of the Pond.
were busily engaged restoring roofs and pitching the On the return from a 14 days' absence from "la Belle

two tents that suffered so severely in the merciless Chatillon," the attractions of Rosie's Cafe, or Hotel
gale. It was at this time that the orderly tent was de la waned and they didn't seem to be the
Poste,
changed to a location between our two barracks, where "nice" sort of places we were at first inclined to think
it remained during the remainder of our sojourn in them. Once returned from a leave, the greatest desire
Chatillon. was to start off on another, the required four months
Though much work was accomplished at Chatillon, passing as four years.
 fatal crash of a Sop
Coudron training plane
 jfc-r

Bloor

639 tti Office and Supply Tenf

Y.M.C.A., Barracks and Mess Halls Norton &

W^isblum

hmer\4 Office
 48 639TH AERO SQUADRON
The well established "Y" erected with the general assume charge of that department, which they did very
expansion program proved to be an agreeable surprise. creditably.
Though Mr. Webster provided amply for us in his Then "Boastful Willie" decided that the jig was up,
dilapidated tent, the influx of the three additional telling us so with finality on November 11th. What
squadrons warranted the construction of the excellent happened that morning will lie remembered forever.
"Y" accommodations we afterward enjoyed. For a A half hour after the good word had been received,
short time we had Miss Mann at the "Y," who inaugu- 639tb's settlement bore a more forlorn aspect than the
rated the hot cocoa custom. Her sojourn at the field, "Deserted Village" itself, the bunch heading for
town
however, proved of short duration, work in Paris calling en masse. That the 639ers played a prominent part
in the celebration may be ascertained from the fact
that several of us figured in little reckonings after the
general hilarity had subsided. But everyone was doing
his best that day, and we carried the same enthusiasm
into the merry-making that characterized our daily
tasks; hence, our exceptional accomplishments on the
occasion of the armistice.

Though had ceased with the armistice, the

hostilities

same had imbued the men in their work was

spirit that

as noticeable as previously, no one relaxing his efforts

to maintain- the same high standard of efficiency in all
work undertaken.
November saw the Thanksgiving issue of "Contact,"
our squadron paper; the second edition appearing as

The Old "Y." a New Year's number. The merits of the sheet may
be judged from the fact that the Chief of Air Service
her there. Fortunately, the cocoa custom survived to requested copies of all ensuing issues of the paper;
the end. also any cuts of general interest we had used and still

Entertainments were provided at regular intervals,

had in our possession. These were to be utilized in the

the local official history of the Air Service for official Govern-
talent periodically providing shows of real
merit. Divisional shows also favored us with their
ment records. A thousand copies were sold of the
second number. Rhodes, the Editor, however, expe-
offerings from time to time.
rienced snmc-of the difficulties of the regular newspaper
A baseball league was established, in which we were
scribe. Many libel suits were threatened, but finally
represented, having returned home only once on the
dropped when informed that "Contact" could not pos-
short end of a score. These games provided auto trips
sibly pay any damage suits returned against it.
to Montigny, Vcuxhalles, Courban, or to other towns
where our opponents were From November 11th, on, there wasn't a dull moment
stationed. The trips were
for anv of us around the barracks. Occasionally- some
.1 ice of real pleasure, Murphy and his transporta-
vi ui
of the fellows would join in the social whirl and return
tion gang providing trucks to carry the large band of
after an undeniably pleasant evening spent at Rosie's
rooters which accompanied the team on all trips. A
Inn, or perhaps at the Hotel de la Poste, while still
combination team composed of men from the 89th
others found amusement in visiting the "Sign of the
and 639th frequently met the strong officers' team
which boasted several ex-college and league players in
Red Horse" (Cheval Rouge) or "Big John's" dugout.
There were those, too, who devoted their evenings to
their lineup. These games were always nip-and-tuck
the mastery of the ^difficulties of the French language,
affairs, the enlisted men, however, scoring the victory
while the fair instructor simultaneously labored to
every time.
overcome the difficulties of English. Each man had
Week-end auto trips were made to Dijon, Troves, and
his particular rendezvous where he could always call
Auxere, in recognition work accomplished
of the fine
"pommes de terres frites" without
for his "oeufs" and
on the field. That these trips were full of amusement
fear of disappointment.
is indicated by the general wish to be numbered among
We could not forget the strong man stunts performed
those selected for the next ride.
after a social, or a dizzy whirl at popular Rosie's or
ByNovember, no squadron was producing better one of the other emporiums. The way those stoves
results nor holding more of the responsible positions on went over cannot be forgotten, nor can the spontaneous
the field than was the 639th. The Transportation De- readings from Shakespeare go unappreciated. The
partment, with one of the best records in the A. E. F., boys certainly "knew the town, but we can't say more
was virtually personneled by men from our outfit. about it, due to the silence each observed concerning
Headquarters depended on our clerks and stenos to his achievements there. All had real rendezvous, but
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 49
refused to let too many in on them, thus spoiling their departure; bin each succeeding day found us as im-
own opportunities. patiently waiting as on theday previous. Dame Rumor
In spare time, or on holidays, the men could he seen had everyone on the "qui vivc" during the last month
hieing off in all directions, St. Colombe and the smaller there, and it seemed as though our orders would never
neighboring towns offering a welcome to many of the come.
639th men. One hour of drill constituted the day's labor, while
On January 12th, our old friends of the 89th started most of us tired striving to dope out some means of
the first lap of the journey which we all hoped to make agreeably occupying the remainder of the time. All
as "toot sweet" as possible, to "God's Country." The excess equipment was turned in during these days and
639th then became the pioneer outfit on the field and the general preparations for departure were in order. "Y"

2nd Corps Aero School from Above

places occupied by them were due recognition of their entertainments during these days were staged fre-
qualifications. quently, but the majority of the men preferred asso-
Here it was that the wild rumor artists realized the ciation with their French friends, as they anticipated
wonderful field of action that lay before them. Dailj leaving them soon, perhaps never again to see them.
the Mexican athletes had either sailing orders for the March 5th, excitement exceeded all bounds when
Squadron or some "straight" or "inside" dope that we received official notice that w'e had only two more
assured our departure by the end of January. Some days in Chatillon. Some men immediately set to work,
were even deploring the fact that we would be de- packing up their barrack bags, while others seemed
prived of our right to don a second service stripe. almost skeptical, fearing that the cheerful news was
Late in January, the work of the school having ter- only a dream. The supply tent looked comparatively
minated, orders to return to the United States were bare after excessive equipment was turned in and
all

requested for our Squadron, and then the real anxiety served to confirm the good news.
began. All were aware that each day might bring our March 6th, the men, with the co-operation of Lieu-
 :

mini "j- -
:
|

T 111 m:« v OBK ill K \l.l>

MM \ i u VOKK Mil'
Foth R«e>r» Gcrm»n Plcnipulrntinnti I;
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arrcauM »«i tiimui i ;jM!fc nn waff " «'

urn* i imc ft"" *>>p u» u wiiipwonni

THE SI » VfJHK III K \1 .11-

GERK*M MUST DECIDE BY II O'CLOCK OS MOSDAT &ORXHG

rtwpuu fins ro
bttsh ™t«Qi t
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\BDlCATlON OF THE KAISER
;«:\(HATION IN GERMAN 1

THEKAKEK FLELS TO HOLLLMJl 5I.0OH SPILE

-:•*=* « MOU .,

i in NEW \ iiKU III II I Ml

^THE WAR IS WON!

Armistice Day
in Chafillon
639th Mess Hall at Chatillon

639th Cooks ami K. P.'

 W? 639TH AERO SQUADRON 55

tenant Engineering Officer, rigged up

Mitchell, the a interests of the men. By ten o'clock we saw the last
fusilage and gave an unprecedented parade through of Chatillon and were then ready to consider sleeping.
the streets of Chatillori, which is described at length The men then occupied themselves striving to deter-
on another page. mine the best means of arranging their bed sack-.
which they found piled up in the cars on their arrival
En
Route, Chatillon to Marsas
at the station. It was decided to arrange the bunk-
The morning of the 7th blanket rolls were prepared,
adjacent to one another, the boys sleeping "sardine"
barrack bags packed, and baggage transported to the
fashion, i. e., with the feet of one in close proximity
station to be loaded on the cars that were already
to thehead of the other. For a time some of the boys
waiting to receive it. Most of the day was spent in
were greatly perplexed in their efforts to arrive at a
making the rounds of our numerous friends to bid
them a final adieu. It seemed as though each man
satisfactory solution of the sleeping problem. Hot
coffee had been prepared and the boys "fell out" to
bad been adopted by some fair "Marraine," following
enjoy this prior to "setting" themselves for the night's
the popular French custom. Old wines were brought
rest, if rest were to be possible in so crowded a con-
out after an apparent undisturbed rest of some years
and opened, in order that the best of friends might
dition. By the time we had pulled out of Chatillon the
sleeping difficulty had solved itself, as the boys hit the
drink together before parting. All were implored to
"hay heap" one by one, and a with Morpheus en visit
write "souvent" and besought not to forget their
route became a reality. However, it cannot be con-
friends as soon as they had separated from them.
tended that sleeping under those conditions was an-
At eight o'clock the Squadron, in full marching order,
alogous to sleep of a real beneficial nature, because
formed on the road in the rear of the line of barracks
when we arose morning fatigue had not been
the next
and executed a "squads right" for the last time in the
wholly dispelled. Bunks were rolled up and equipment
good old environment that served so long a time as
suspended from the ceiling and from the walls through
our home. The doorways along the streets were filled
the medium of numerous nails that had been placed
with people who were to have a final glimpse of us as
there for this purpose. Everyone was fully awake
we marched, singing, along the route to the station.
bright and early, waiting for succor from the cook-
\\ e arrived "a la gare" about 8:30 and piled into our
car. The night's travel had brought us as far as Dijon,
—
"40 hommes 8 chevaux" Pullmans, eager to be off on
a known to practically every member of the
city
—
the most desired of all journeys most desired because
it was the beginning of the end of our military career.
Many had found rare enjoyment there on
Squadron.

Lieutenant Mitchell was at the station and bade each week-end trips, while everyone who had been on leave
man a personal farewell. That afternoon the members had made Dijon a factor in his itinerary.
of the Squadron had presented him with a pair of field A number of the boys hit direct for the Red Cross
glasses and a gold pin in token of their friendship for canteen at the station, where their healthy appetite-
him and in recognition of his efforts to further tin- were soon appeased by the kindly, good looking, real

En Route to Marsas
56 639TH AERO SQUADRON
American girls. A few others (ask Rhodes and Galtes) inured us to "war conditions" and with our straw -filled
even perpetrated a morning social call at some of the bed sacks along, our return coastward was a pleasant
nearby hostelries where they had formed "friendships" contrast to that awful journey "frontward" in January,
with some of the "fair ones" of the Rochefort country. 1918.

About eight o'clock the Squadron "cuisiniers" served On morning of March 9th we arrived in Chateau-
the
hot coffeesandwiches of the "cold beef" and
and roux. The
night had passed in comparative rest, so
confiture variety, the boys returning to the cars well the bunch quickly "piled oft" and formed a line for
satisfied for the present. Shortly after this "petit coffee in front of a French canteen. This beverage
dejeuner" the tram signalled departure, everyone climb- was appreciated, as was the information that we were
ing aboard anxious to cover more distance as quickly to "lay over" there for several hours. The wise ones
as possible. lost no time in exploring the town, their reports on
All the boys were settled comfortably enough in the returning to the cars causing many to regret their pro-
cars during the day, some sitting in the doorways, wink' crastination. was true, however, that many of the
It

Others remained standing, gazing out of the open win- fellows left Chateauroux in a far more jovial mood
dows, enjoying the ever-changing beautiful landscapes. than they had entered the burg early that morning.
An hour out of Dijon and we saw Beaune with its im- All left Chateauroux, however, with a very favorable
mense American University colony, which several of impression ol the place, for various reasons.
ns were anxious to attend, but failed to receive the The country traversed on this day was quite pleasing
appointment. The scenery presented a very agreeable view. Eats, as
Each car provided its own impromptu entertainers, on the day previous, did not come quite so often as
time passing tolerably fast with little diversions and the majority could have relished without pampering
spontaneous bursts of drollery. Eats did not come as their soldier's appetite. Individual foresight again pre-
frequeuth as our appetites warranted, and fortunate cluded the possibility of anyone's enduring any hunger
indeed were those who had prepared for such a con- at any time on the trip. I'.y nine o'clock, the majority
tingency, bringing an ample suppl) of sardines, cheese, of the cars were darkened The quiet did not prevail,
jam and French bread, and even eggs. The generosity as usual, till a considerably later hour. One night had
and good-fellowship in every car permitted no one to sufficed to inure the boys to the "sardine" mode of
gaze hungrily on the scene, everyone profiting l>\ the bunking. For that reason everyone enjoyed a good
preparedness of the farsighted ones. night's sleep the third night on the road.
I'.y nine o'clock, the eve of the second day on the We were rudely aroused at five a. m. to enjoy some
road, the interior of each car resembled a sardine can. hot coffee, which was certainly appreciated, in spite of
In spite of the crowded conditions, sleep proved feas- our disturbed slumbers. Monday, the 10th, found the
ible. Some cars displayed hammocks suspended from hunks rolled up earlier than usual, possibly due to the
the ceiling, as some of the fellows ingeniously con- untimely awakening. The doors and windows were
trived to up their "shelter halves" sailor fashion.
rig opened to admit the best weather we had bad since our
"Tiny" Kennedy thought to utilize his shelter half departure from Chatillon. Enthusiasm was rampant,
in that fashion, but decided on completion of the work inasmuch as everyone was anticipating the end of the
that he was either too heavy or the shelter half too journey some time on that day. At practically every
weak for the ordeal; so he flopped on the floor, where station the French "flunkies" were bombarded with
he risked no spill fineries as tohow soon we should arrive at St. Andre
For one of the "far-end" men to proceed to the d de Cubsaz, our destination. The farther we traveled
alter dark to "once over" the ever-changing environ- the later became the conjectured hour of our arrival at
ment was quite an interesting accomplishment. 'Twas St. Andre, so we decided to ask no more questions.
necessary to rise, and either fall or dive as far as Chow on the third day was consistent with that of
possible toward the mid-section of the car, recovering the two preceding days. Thrice during the day the
removing someone's knee or elbow
one's bearings after hovs lined up for sandwiches and coffee, utilizing their
from one's stomach. The method of procedure on the own supply of eats in addition to those provided. By
return was analogous, some displaying great skill in three o'clock we had crossed the Gironde and were
judging distance, landing in the majority of attempts moving slowly into the railroad yards at Bordeaux.
directly on their own hay-heap. Though we expected to leave Bordeaux "toute de suite"
Travel a la "4(1 hommes —
8 chevaux" on this trip was after completing another collation consisting of "hash"
a decided contrast to our trip under similar conditions sandwiches, we were disappointed on that score. A
over a year back, when we went from Brest to St. "hot was discovered on the baggage car, and
box"
Maixcnt. On that trip conditions were considerably alter about twenty Frenchmen had completed their
more crowded and sleep then was utterly impossible, very cursory inspection, it was decided that it would
general opinion concurring in severe aversion to be necessary to replace the car with another one. This
French travel methods. Our year's experience had necessitated the removal of the contents of the car,
 —
58 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
transferring them to another that had been switched vicinity of Marsas and the treatment we received
up for the purpose. The encomiums heaped on the from the people was above reproach a decided con-
French inspectors might more properly be termed op- trast to the environment at Chatillon. Marsas is a
probriums, for the boys did not enjoy the prolonged hamlet of perhaps eighty inhabitants, located thirty-two
delay. The work of transferring baggage was the kilometers from Bordeaux in the Department of
accomplished in comparatively short time and everyone Gironde. It is in the heart of the "Vin blanc" district,
was anxious to leave Bordeaux as soon as possible. the vineyards covering miles and miles of territory.
When we did start we were minus our baggage car, Settlements in this section of France were quite dif-
a^ a locomotive had in the interim been coupled to the ferent from those to which we were accustomed in
opposite end of the train. Realizing our situation, the the eastern part of the country. The houses were
switch engine was coupled to the baggage car and fol- located a considerable distance apart, each boasting a
lowed us up as closely as could safely be done. The fairly large acreage devoted to vineyards.
crew mi our engine heard the whistling and yelling of Our
routine here consisted of morning and afternoon
the boys and brought the train to a stop. The pestifer- though shortly before our departure the afternoon
drill,
ous baggage car was thin coupled on and we were on period was devoted to athletic activity. The change
our way again by six o'clock. proved very popular with the boys, inasmuch as it

Marsas and Embarkation Camp afforded them ample opportunity to decide whether they

Everyone was in readiness to detrain on a moment's had retrograded to the class of "has beens" or "come-
notice, hut after a ride of two hours' duration we ar-
backs." It is safe to venture that the great majority
<|tialified in the latter category.
rived at St. Andre only to receive the information that
we had ten kilometers farther to travel. The congested Discipline tightened here and formations were the
conditions of St. Andre and its environs compelled us prevailing vogue. The men in the different billets came
to billet farther up the line. About 9:30 we detrained in formation for all meals, or whenever the presence
atCavignac and, after piling up our bed sacks, we "fell of the entire personnel of any billet was required at
in" tomarch three kilometers over to Marsas, where some particular place. In proceeding to mess, forma-
we were to be billeted. The 157th, which accompanied tion was necessary. Shoes, both field and russet, were
us,did likewise, but proceeded on foot over to Cezac, kept scrupulously clean and polished at all times. No
which had been assigned for their billets. The march one readily impromptu inspection in lieu
forgot the
through the darkness under full equipment proved to of retreat when what we thought was a real shine
be somewhat of an ordeal after three days and nights merited two hours and twenty minutes of extra hiking
on a French "Soldier Pullman."The customary char- after supper. The penalty subjected to consisted in
acteristics of the 639th "on the march" were decidedly covering a prescribed route twice in one hour. This
lacking that night. Occasionally someone would com- was, however, impossible to do, even should the bunch
mence a song, but bis enthusiasm invariably failed him double time both circuits.
as his pack emphasized its presence. The European The Q. M. treated us exceptionally fine and the mess
kilometer, as a linear measure, evoked contempt from sergeant by requisitioning the services of Bill Hogan,
a Yank when he considered the superiority of the mile. "a bear" of an ex-cook, and mess sergeant, improved
However, those three kilometers we traversed, hiking the eats considerably. Effective precautions were taken
from Cavignac to Marsas, were apparently longer than to assure irreproachable cleanliness of mess-gear. This
any American farmer's six miles. served to further the enjoyment of chow and satisfy
It was a fatigued bunch that came to a halt in the the many inspectors on that score.
vicinity of the field kitchen located temporarily along- Rigorous inspections were held every Saturday,
side the road in Marsas. Lieutenant Snow and the everybody carefully preparing for them. The general
vanguard, consisting of Weisblum, lice, and Knowles, improvement in discipline, drill, and appearance was
who arrived three days previous, had prepared some quite marked after our first fortnight in Marsas. After
coffee. Even this sugarless beverage, with a piece of four weeks in our Gironde environment the majority
bread,was appreciated by all. By midnight the various of the boys, to utilize their own expressions, were "sit-
detachments had been marched off to the billets to ting pretty." The French friends of the 639th were
which they had been assigned. Xo one lost any time counted within a six or seven-kilometer radius of
in preparing a "Hop" for the night in the
place to — Marsas. The 639ers were Ourches and favorites at
majority of cases, on the hard floor. Chatillon and then at Marsas, experiencing no con-
;

Once again we found ourselves living in the homes
of the French people, but this time under far pleasanter
conditions. Many of the boys met the "Patron" that
same night and were obliged to accept of his proffered
hospitality in the form of some very fine wine.
We were the first Yanks to be stationed in the
tenders, in addition to being the first American soldiers
there, they found a hearty welcome from the start,
which they retained throughout their sojourn there.
Many a bottle of ancient "Vin blanc" was brought out
after years of undisturbed rest. The people would
accept no remuneration for this hospitality, offering it
 itwim
Who
 feck/ng upa+ Chatillon The monster of the Great Peerade

The "Pershinq" review neor 5t Andre

Captain Fritz

/A day in fonts near 5t. Andre Chocolate & Cigarettes

 <3fe 639TH AERO SQUADRON 61

^35SS3S6^*»^'

Street Scene in Marsas

through motives of pure friendship. Tobacco, cigar- of feet with the least damage to his own. The boys at

ettes, and occasionally candy, of the issue variety, first essayed to dance, hut experience soon taught them
served to reciprocate the kindness. that the was the preferable one. The
spectator's role

] luring our stay at Marsas it was not Found neces- closing dance, however, was the one most appreciated.
sary to appoint M. P.s, a very creditable reflection on That three-piece orchestra (cornet, violin, and bass)
the character of the Squadron personnel. Access to inevitably ground out a jig for the final number on

cafes was had throughout the day until 9:30 in the the program. The Amexes usually participated in that
evening. Inebriety was, however, practically a non- number, as it consisted in hopping from one foot to the
entity.
other. Most of the comely demoiselles within the
dance radius (and they came from miles around) made
For once, practically ever) man in the Squadron
the "connaissance" of the 63°ers.
joined in the social whirl of French rural society. The
weekly- dances, given under French auspices at Holley's For and other reasons, we had contented our-
this,

billet and over "a la gare" at Gauriauguet, were largely

selves with our new environment and were reconciled
attended by 639ers. These affairs invariably proved a to an indefinite stay in Marsas, But we were greatly
revelation and a real scream to the boys. One could surprised when, on returning from morning drill on

hardly imagine or easily describe the dances such as March 7th, we received orders to proceed on the mor-
those French executed. It was certainly a ludicrous row to the French Aviation Field at St. Andre de
spectacle to witness; a small hall, overcrowded with Cubzac. Here we were to bivouac for the night, pro-
ceeding to Genicart the following day. Genicart was
French whirling dizzily for a moment, then tearing
the embarkation camp for the Bordeaux area.
around in skipping fashion. In reality, it was merely
a contest to see who could tramp on the greater number Immediately following dinner, men from each billet

Preparing for a Review at St. Andre

62 jfe 639TH AERO SQUADRON
marched to their quarters and prepared themselves Foi Genicart. The awful hike having been avoided seemed
departure. The French, who had learned to know us as if it bad merely been bad nightmare.
well, were greatly disappointed to hear that we were Shortly after our arrival at Genicart we were com-
leaving them. fortably located in clean barracks. Each man, after
By supper time all was in readiness tor departure. the wont of 639ers, preceded to familiarize himself
The hoys set out after supper to bid an revoir to all with his new environment. The new camp was agree-
their friends. Amexes went in every direction that able enough, but we were informed that we were to
night to see for the last time their newly made friends. leave the following day for Camp Xo. 2.
Even the chateau at Gauriauguet received two 639ers, After a night of excellent rest, we marched over to
offering several of their choicest "old" wines with their Camp Xo. 2 on March 10th. We immediately entered
an revoir. Of course these were appreciated. Though the and "mill" that ordeal certainly was. The
mill,

"taps" was blown at the usual hour, a great number following day, when a number of our men were
did not return for sleep until the "wee sma' " hours. assigned to the "delouser" for duty, we realized what a

At 8:30, the morning of April 7th. the Squadron was farce we had participated in the day previous. Rookies

on the camions ready for the view of that we were on our arival, the delousing ordeal was
last Marsas.
L'institutrice, who had shown a keen interest in the certainly a miserable process for most of us; though

Amexes, had all the children assembled in the school- when our men commenced to put through the new-
yard to wave "adieu" until our camions rolled out of comers the next day the more ludicrous it all seemed
Some "fair ones" followed on bicycles as far as to Us.
sight.

the Route Nationale, The men were assigned to various occupations, all

At eleven o'clock the squadron descended from the affording considerable spare time. None were sup-

Andre. But plied with those delicate instruments, the pick and
camions at the French aviation field at St.

littletime was required to assign the men to tents. shovel, for which consideration we were truly grateful.
Everybody then commenced to explore the camp and We were here under orders calling for permanent
locate as comfortably as possible for the night. The duty, though not "permanent" as is ordinarily inferred.

tents recalled the days we had spent at Kelh Field, The all important question was "when do we leave ?".

though we were content to know that the repetition But we had no official information on that score so
was for one night only. We were to have been re- were reconciled again to the watchful waiting policy.
viewed there by General Pershing, but the plans were "Dame Rumor" again cast an effective thralldom
changed. about the squadron while our "bull" artists adhered
In the evening the boys took a jaunt into town to
servilely to their principles. Some had us on the boat
a few days after our arrival at Camp Xo. 2; others set
"once over" the place, main' having previously not been
afforded the opportunity to visit the town. All re-
our departure for a specified time in the near future.
turned to camp "de bonne heure" to get a good night's
The sagacious ones, however, prepared themselves as
usual for the development of the reality and paid no
rest in anticipation of the hike on the morrow. The
cooks worked all night preparing sandwiches for the heed to the bewildering rumors.
hike. As it developed, we were at the Embarkation Camp

The bunch awoke the morning of the 8th, ready for

for about a month, performing our various duties. A
large number were assigned for work in the "mill"
the march though poorly rested after a night on the
and thus helped "decootieize" about 40,000 homeward
bard boards minus a bed sack. Everybody assisted in
bound men. Others were in the headquarters as clerks,
loading the baggage on the camions, a method that
guides, inspectors, etc. The time went rapidly. Geni-
expedited considerably that tedious job, usually meaning
cart was a camp of daily changes, an endless stream of
hard work for only a few.
men entering to be deloused and leaving for the boat.
It was observed that several camions in excess of
Bordeaux was only a few kilometers south and many
those required for had been as-
baggage transport
of us made several trips there and added to our store
signed to the squadron. By the "rank" elimination
of knowledge of French city life. Bordeaux proved a
process, only the privates remained to make the hike
wonderful city and we counted ourselves fortunate to
on foot, according to original orders. After all the
be given passes so frequently.
camions had departed the privates fell in, and, led by
Capt. Fritz, were off on what they thought was to be Back to the U. S. A. Again
a hike to Genicart. But twenty minutes were required The great day arrived with a bang on May 8. We
to proceedfrom the Aviation Field to the M. T. C. were relieved of our duties, again deloused, inspected,
park at St. Andre, where a halt was called. Capt. Fritz given emergency rations and orders for home. Never
interviewed the officer in charge and two additional was there a busier lot of men and early on the 9th
trucks were provided, to the great delight of the everything was in readiness to move. That afternoon
"Mucks". After an hour and a half of travel through we marched to the docks in a broiling sun. Our ship
beautiful surroundings, we arrived at Gamp Xo. 1, was the S. S. Sierra, formerly of the Oceanic Steam-
The U.S.s. Agamemnon iooKus over f?ollincj+he iastpqck in France -(Gevicari)

The 5.5. Sierra brough+us back

In one end and out thru the other

&.m

4 . si lie NewWk Bny - Real Newspapers

On the .Sierra 0a\m\| weather

Stockwell. Norton, Burns

at Gorder) Citv
New York Boy, May 21,1919
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 64

ship Co. This time we didn't mind the crowding What a delight to ride in an American train again;
because we had plenty of light and deck freedom. The real American comfort, real American men and women
journey lasted 13 days and was for the most part quite at the stations. We spent the night at Camp Mills. The
delightful. next morning we went through another delousing pro-
To make a long story short, we landed on May 21 cess and then marched to Garden City and entered
at Hoboken, and, after running the gauntlet of a num- good barracks once more. Telephones, telegraph, and
ber of Red Cross, Y. M. C. A., K. C, and J. W. B. the mails were kept busy connecting us with our friends.
representatives who showered us with candies, tobacco, At Garden City our records were brought to their final
handkerchiefs, etc., were marched aboard the ferry form, our pay was computed, and by June 6 all of
boat Newburgh and sailed across to Long Island City, us had been discharged and were on our way home.
where we took a train to Camp Mills. The officers were discharged a few weeks later.

OFFICERS AND RANKING NON-COMS

Knutaon McAidle I'Murphy Holz Phoebus Glynn Bolle McGovei n

Varney Weisblum Lt. Snow Capt. Fritz Capt. Gain Burns Frazer

EMANUEL FRITZ, CAPTAIN PERCY H. PHOEBUS. SERGEANT 1ST CLASS

Commanding Officer (A. M.)
Asst. in charge Hangars
OMER O. GAIN, CAPTAIN
Medical Officer WILLIAM R. FRASER, SERGEANT 1ST CLASS
WINTER N. SNOW, 1ST LIEUT. (A. M.)
Supply Officer Asst. in charge Hangars
EBERHARDT J. BOLLER, MASTER ELECTRICIAN THOMAS L. TAYLOR. SERGEANT 1ST CLASS
(A.M.) (A.M.)
Chief of Hangars and Ships Asst. in charge Hangars
IRVING B. WEISBLUM, SERGEANT 1ST CLASS JAMES A. McGOVERN, 1ST SERGEANT CLASS
Squadron Sergeant Major
In charge Police and Maintenance Dept.
EDGAR G. VARNEY, SERGEANT 1ST CLASS
Post Supply Sergeant RAYMOND J. GLYNN, SERGEANT 1ST CLASS
EDWARD J. MURPHY, SERGEANT 1ST CLASS Asst. Post Sergeant Major
(A.M.)
Truckmaster
CALEB L. YORK, SERGEANT
First Sergeant
LLOYD H. KNUTSON, SERGEANT 1ST CLASS
(A.M.) JOHN B. BURNS. SERGEANT
Machine Shop
In charge Squadron Supply Sergeant
EDWIN K. HOLZ. SERGEANT 1ST CLASS (A.M.) PETER F. McARDLE, SERGEANT
Magneto Expert Mess Sergeant
66 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON
CAPTAIN EMANUEL FRITZ
Captain Fritz took command of the Squadron at
Kellj Field, Texas, on December 24, 1917, and remained
with it continuously until the Squadron was demo-
bilised, June 6, 1919. At the time of his appointment
lie was a First Lieutenant in the Field Artillery
Reserve Corps, being subsequently transferred to the
Air Service.
IK has untiringh devoted all his time and efforts
to Squadron
the to make
and efficient
it a strong
organization. That was successful in this is attested
lie

by the many compliments paid the Squadron from

time to time. It may he said of him that he knew

each of us individually and always looked out for our

will. ire, comfort, equipment, and pleasure.

Captain fritz hails from Baltimore, hut plans to

make his home in Berkeley, California, after his own
discharge, as a member of the Faculty of the Division
Captain Fritz. of Forestry, University of California.

FIRST LIEUTENANT WINTER X. SNOW

Lieut. Snow was assigned to the Squadron on
December 27, 1917, at Kelly Field. He was at that time
a Second Lieutenant of the Infantry Reserve Corps. He-
served with us until demobilization and thus served only
three days less than the "Skipper". He was our
Supply Officer after Lieut. Hansell left, and was also
Assistant Post Supply Officer at Chatillon. His' quiet,
genial and gentlemanly manner made him many friends.
Lieut. Snow's home is in Mars Hill, Maine. After
his discharge he plans to complete his law studies at
the University of Michigan.

CAPTAIN OMER O. GAIN, M. C.

Lieutenant Snow. aptain Gain, although not assigned as a Squadron

•

Officer until March, 1919, was nevertheless looked upon

as one of us after his arrival in Chatillon in June, 1918.
As our Medical Officer he knew all our aches and pains
and troubles. He was a most conscientious officer and
was always on the lookout that sanitary conditions were
correct. He intends, after discharge, to return to his
family and practice in Dublin, Texas.

CAPTAIN JOHN M. HANSELL

Captain Hansell joined us at when a First
Kelly Field
Lieut, of the Infantry. He remained with us until
June 24, 1918, when, at his own request, he was
returned to the Infantry. However, fate willed that he
drift into the Transportation Corps as a
Regulating
( Ifficer. When
heard from he was at Coblenz, Ger-
last

many. As Squadron Transportation Officer, he made

himself man) staunch friends. His home is in Tulsa,
Captain Gain. < iklahoma.
 : —
639TH AERO SQUADRON 67
1ST LIEUT. LEO. G. McKINLEY Infantry training post at the rear, and it was onlj
Lieut. McKinley joined us in March, 1918, at ( lurches, toward the end of the war that he was able to see any
and served until when he was made
January, 1918. action at the Front.
Commanding Aero Squadron. As
Officer of the 89th
Squadron and Post Censor, Lieut. McKinley knew all Other Officers
our secrets and our hopes and desires. But he kept
Among the early officers who were assigned only dur-
them to himself. His censorship was rigid but exceed- ing the period of organization, 1st Lieut. C. G. C.
ingly fair. His home is in Keokuk, Iowa, where he Christie is the best known and served the longest
practises law. Nov. 10 to Dec. 24, 1917. He succeeded Lieut. Charles
\\ Marshall, who was with us from Oct. 19 to Nov.
1ST LIEUT. FRANK E. GILLETT 10. Both these officers were commissioned in the Signal
Lieutenant Gillett joined us at Kelly Field in December, Reserve Corps, Aviation Section, and both were populai
1917, and remained until June 24, 1918, when, looking with the men because of their interest and efforts on
about for more action, he was returned to the Infantry behalf of the Squadron.
at his own request. At Ourches he was Post Adjutant. Capt. Robert
E. Souther, M. C, accompanied us
He was able to sec some real action with the 30th Infan- was detached upon our arrival at Brest.
overseas, but
try during the last days of the war. His home is in He was our Medical Officer for about three weeks and
Alpine. Texas during that short time endeared himself to many of
us lor his ability and kindly interest in our welfare.
2ND LILCT. EMMETT P. MULHOLLAXI)
Lieutenant Mulholland joined us at Ourches in March, Other officers who remained with the Squadron but
and served there as Assistant Construction Officer.
a few days or weeks were
1918,
Being originallj commissioned in the Infantry, he was Lieut Bagley, S. R. C, at Kelly Field until Oct. 19.
Lieut. Lewis, I. R. C, enroute Kelly Field to Garden
restless for real action, and therefore requested to he
City.
returned to the Infantry. He left us June 24, 1918, and
in October, following, lie was severely wounded dur-
Lieut. Little, I. R. C, enroute Kelly Field to Garden
City.
ing an engagement in the Argonne Forest. He was
still in the hospital in December, 1919, and reports that
Lieut. Ross, I. R. C, enroute Kelly Field
, to Garden
City.
he must undergo another operation. Our regards and
best wishes iHi a speedy and permanent recovery go
Lieut. Birkhead, I. R. C, enroute Kelly Field to

out to him. Garden City.

Lieut. Hall, I. R. C. enroute Kelly Field to Garden
2X1) LIEUT. WILLIAM I;. RUGGLES City.
Lieutenant Ruggles joined us at Kelly Field. He was Lieut. Dove, I. R. C ,
enroute Kelly Field to Garden
then in the Infantry Reserve Corps, and every day in City.
the Air Service made him more impatient to get back Major McKee, M. C, Medical Officer, Ourches.
to the Infantry and see some action. Consequently, Captain Spaulding, A. S., Construction Officer, Cha-
he left us in March, 1918, hut fate kept him at an tillon.

McKinley Mnlholland Seifert Hansell Snow

R.M.Burn.5 Stack hou^e Gaffes C.F. -Smith Glynn Dollvj

B^rne J. 6 Burns Shannon Wetsblum Termi niello

Czysy Phillips Madison C.R.Morton Reynolds

ftPaul W c
rlrcile Sparks Bloom
 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 69

RUELL M. BURNS be waited a year be might have been favored with a

New discharge soon after the signing of the Armistice, but

Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, York,
October 19, 1917- Age, 19 years.
we are pleased that he miscalculated for it gave us the
pleasure of his company. He was often referred to at
A typical Bostonian, stout and good natnred, pos-
Ourches as the "pen-pusher" with the pick and shovel,
sessed of a desire for music as well as for lieans. Sev-
hut Charles left his mark upon Mother Earth while
old
eral times during his stay in France his piano playing
there. His last days in France were marked by a re-
was enjoyed by officers and enlisted men. There was
turn to his old line, a position being given him in the
something about this gentleman's personality, together
office at Headquarters Detachment.
with his humorous sayings, that won him many friends
in France, including the fairer sex, who enjoyed his
Scotch songs and impersonations. His letters from RAYMOND .1. GLYNN
home were his greatest pleasure, while he regretted Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
that he could not purchase his favorite drink, "Bevo". August 3, 1917. Age, 22 years.
He was the Colonel's stenographer at Chatillon, and did "Beau Brummel" what we'd have called him if he
is

work of the same nature at St. Andre. hadn't come monuicker "Ray".
to us with the curtailed
Early received sergeant's chevrons through his clerical
ASA MATLACK STACKHOUSE ability, and continued the good work at headquarters

Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, wherever we were stationed. A strong supporter of
December 1917. Age, IS years. the "Klerks' Klub" and always in company with some
8,

known of them. Ray developed a weakness for the mademoi-

A confirmed booster for the Empire State,
selles of La Belle France but failed to give them the
familiarly to Squadron members as "Stack" or "Mat-
encouragement many of them would have liked. Nev-
lack". Acquired distinction as understudy to "Honest
ertheless, a capable one-hand French parleyer. Claimed
Joint" of Supply affairs when John turned bis efforts
For a time served in the capacity of
that demobilization could not come too soon, for many
to literary work.
reasons.
mail orderly and survived the ordeal. Struggled hard
to familiarize himself with French, and strove bald to JOHN A. DOLLY
utilize it, with variable success. Found notorietj as the Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
hero in the "Contact" novelette "The Amour of Asa". ber 22, 1917. Age, 22 years.
Proud to have been a "Buck" in Uncle's aggregation, An railroad man, whose work in the Arm}
old
because men of the calibre of Plato and Cato the entitled him to the rank of "High Pvt." John, with a
Younger were "Bucks." Anxious to return to Ham- smile that was all bis own. managed to keep warm at
resume his collegiate studies and to see "Girlie"
ilton to the orderly room fire. His ability to consistently duck
again. the labor crew at Ourches, and for a long while at

\\ ILLIAM F. GALTES Chatillon, was due to his ability and bis power to per-
form with the pen. The official poster of the Guard
Entered the Army at Fort McDowell, California,
and K. P. detail. At one time acting sergeant major.
November 14, 1917. Age, 3) years.
Served on "Contact" editorial staff. Possesses literary
"Peck's Bad Boy"; slim of stature; long on the eats. promise.
Insisted that he worked as hard as be could with the
pick and shovel at Ourches, for which he received con-
PAUL J. BYRNE
tinual call-downs. Spoke French fluently, thereby find- Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
ing "homes" for himself and bis friends. Acted as August 16, 1917. Age, 26 years.
interpreter for the Squadron at St. Maixent, Ourches, Another gentleman from New York, hut lacking in

Chatillon and Marsas. Had ability to write. Served the "tboity-tboid" street dialect. From the time the
as Associate Editor of "Contact" and of the Squadron Squadron was organized, until its demobilization, it was
Book. Afraid of cold weather, mud and rain. Dislikes Paul's pleasure to entertain. At Lucy's in (lurches, at
publicity,but enjoyed the mail call. Worked in the Chatillon and the "ball", in Marsas, his voice was
"Information Bureau" at Chatillon, where he gave eon heard. He also sang his way into the hearts of the
siderable time to the study of aeronautics. Had a great "Maids de Lyon" when on leave. He bad the degree
liking for France and hopes to return some (lav. of P. M. (powder monkey) at Ourches, where a safety
tunnel was constructed. During our last days at Cha-
CHARLES F. SMITH tillon, he, with Ranahau, composed several parodies
that were sung many times previous to our departure
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
from that town.
November 16, 1917. Age, 22 years.
All men make one great mistake some time during JOHN P. BURNS
their career, and this was true in the case of "Smuck" John appears in two pictures. His write-up is on
who contracted rheumatic trouble a vear too soon. Had another page.
70 fe 639TH AER O SQUADRON
WILLIAM J. SHANNON Marie, and Columbus 'Coicle' for me 'toot sweet',"
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October says Nick.
3, 1917. Age, 22 years. ALEXANDER CZYSY
Anative of Chicago and the proud possessor of many Entered the Army at Camp Dcvens, Massachusetts,
sisters and brothers. Bill's correspondence was limited October 3, 1917. Age, 25 years.
to the family —
too young t<> be allowed to roam. Quiet. This soldier did his bit in the Army. Pick and shovel
uls ''. and very observing. Knew the ins and outs of at Ourches gave Alex his first dose of real work. After

all of us. Hill, early in the game took to clerical work, that was permanent K. P. "Fine eats, all you want
it

thereby ducking the pick and shovel detail. Dodged 'em" was bis favorite greeting to the hoys as they
with extreme cleverness all K. P., guard, and similar approached him for coffee. Played poker so that he
detail. Never let go of his temper. A keen Eollower —
might be a good citizen also to learn to speak English
of fluently. Always quiet, never offended, no matter how
all sports. \\ .is the recipient of many letters, pack-
ages and newspapers. In civil life was a hank clerk much we joked with him. Enjoyed singing his own
and hoped he might he able to assume his former melodies, something he brought with him from the
responsible position. Gives promise of a great busi
"( Hd Country." At Marsas, when off id' kitchen police,
ness career. be drilled and took pleasure during spare moments in

playing Russian Billiards.

IRVING li. W'EISBLUM
Entered the Arm; at Fort Slocum, New York. JOE A. PHILLIPS
August IS, 1917. Age, 19 years. Entered tin Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,

During our first days at Kelly Field, this young

November 13. 1917. Aye, 18 years.
"Ole Kaintuck" was the monnicker Joe usually car-
Brooklynite was seen wearing a suit of "ci\ics" in the
ried around, and if you can accept his assurance, the
chow line. The trousers had a large hole in the seat,
"Blue Grass" State is the only real God's country on
and a cap ol bright green adorned his head. In Frame
he spent a few of his holidays
the west side of the pond. So clever in the culinary art
in Dijon and met a
friend the Marine Corps. As
that he was awarded cook's chevrons. A true friend
in a member id" tin
advance
of all hungry or voracious members of Pershing's
billeting detail to Marsas his first day was
"Fighting Force." Lost considerable weight, due to
spent working hard shoveling coal. He was contented
worry, when informed of the havoc wrought by the
with ottice work and had little use for airplanes. He
"prohibs" in bis natal state, and promised to- re-enlist
took pleasure and was one of the most
in letter writing
consistent in that respect in the Squadron.
tor foreign service unless the folks at home used better
Took ami
successfully passed the examinations for the grade of
judgment and reconsidered their rashness. An author-
ity on real "moonshine" and wanted only to return
M. E. Held down with considerable ability and tact
"toute de suite" to where be could loaf or work.
the job of sergeant major.
difficult Because of his
interest and conscientiousness, had every man's record ALFRED S. MADISON
complete, correct, and up to date. Because of seniority, Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
was also called the acting first sergeant, though he ber 19, 1917. Age, IS years.
did not exercise all of the duties. "Dolly" was the name bestowed upon this Iowan,
who spent practically all his time while in the Aran
NICHOLAS TERMINIELLl I
in the kitchen, where he learned to "hall 'em out"
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, under the supervision of the many mess sergeants. A
August 21, 1417. Age. 21 years. large juvenile with rosy cheeks, who concealed the fact
Lame from "Noo Yawk," as he called it, and in his from everyone that he was a pianist but played his way
youth he passed his leisure time m the vicinity of into the heart of a mademoiselle at Marsas. "Dolly"
Columbus "Coicle." Was made a Corporal early in enjoyed his one-day-on-aud-one-day-off job. He wanted
the game, and held down that rankness with consid- to fly, but flew nothing but Army chow while with us.

erable credit Mis experiences ranged from pick and It didn't take much to make "Dolly" blush. Intends to
shovel details to squadron cartoonist through the re-enlist and learn Hying.
various stages ol grease hound, mechanic and clerk. CLYDE R. MORTON
Despite bis earlier work, his band retained all its Entered the Army
Fort Thomas,
at Kentucky,
civilian nimbleness, as the cartoons in this hook, all November 11, Age, 19 wars.
1917.
but a tew ol which are his, will show. Some day we "Major" was a Southern gentleman from somewhere
expect to see him appear on the funny pages of our in the Carolinas. Always used on the tough details.
Sunday papers. He was elected cartoonist for Contact Anything such as carrying water made him tired. De-
and for the Squadron Book by unanimous vote. A lighted in using his strength to make short cuts, thereby
good, sociable fellow, full of pleasantries, and the earning a rest. Hated all the morning calls because
owner of a good sense of humor, with the added back home-lie never had to get up in the morning. Con-
ability to express it in cartoons. "Home, my girl sented to serve in the kitchen in order that we might
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 71

receive real seasoned food. Clyde extended the boys an FRED R. BLoo.W
invitation to visit his home "where yon can rest, eat, Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
and do what von waul, without having to come to August 21, 1917. Age, 23 years.
attention." One of the old-timers. Said to know the Army game
WILLIAM F. REYNOLDS through and through. Pleased at the thought of being

Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, able to two service chevrons — somewhere in
sport

November 14, 1917. Age, 25 years. Conn. solid with the mess sergeant.
Fitted Claimed
that the Aviation branch of the Arm}' had too many
It was anyone at any time who had a desire
there
high fliers for him preferred the Navy for that reason.
to put on the "gloves" he would find "Red" always ;

At Chatillon, he held forth upon the living field,

waiting. Had we ever been in a position where vv e
attending diligently to the wants of his "Sop."
would have been obliged to engage in a "hand to hand"
combat with the Boche, Michigan no doubt would see EDWARD T. JULSON
"Red" parading with many medals. His work at Kelly Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, Septem-
Field, Garden City, and Ourches, found him in the ber 21, 1917. Age, 29 years.
cooking establishment, where he made a specialty of "A task connot lie well accomplished unless it is
cooking flap-jacks. He worked in various departments given considerable thought," and Edward was a firm
at Chatillon, and on one occasion prepared a dainty believer motto.
in No matter what he did he
this
chicken dinner for Captain Fritz, which the Captain always thought very much over it.
first Poker was a
never received. game that he liked real well, and more than one game
FRANK PAUL was delayed and not completed on scheduled time
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, September because of the fact that Jtilson was playing. When
-'1. I'M/. Age, .'(I years. Heiurich, Learning, and Edward, were on leave, Edward
was the last of the trio to drink to the health of the
"Cook" and ever ready to give all that the
to us all,
1 hitchess and shake the hand of Secretary of \\ ar,
Quartermaster would allow the kitchen. Spent many
Baker. Me was never known to throw francs away.
weary hours learning recipes so that lie could turn out
cakes, cookies, biscuits, and well cooked meals. Be- JOHN L. ALLEN
cause he served us much "corn willie" is nothing that Entered the Army at Canandaigua, New York, March.
we hold against him. Most of the K. P.'s disliked 0, 1918. Age, 24 years.
Frank because of his exactness. The Squadron as a A salesman, both by nature and by occupation. His
whole was much indebted to him, both for his efforts line was an old one, but John never lost his smile or
and results. Frank was finally able to go to Italy on his nerve. Held the rank of chauffeur, through ability.
pass, a trip he had been trying for, for many long Spoke French "influentially" and got away with it.
months. Had more mademoiselles on the string than any stock
PETER F. McARDLE company. Palled around with Dowdell, another motor
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, gas youth, a town and camp favorite. Always looked
October 16, 1917. Age, 28 years. for long trips or hearse driver's job, which gave him a

This gentleman was transferred into the Squadron chance to mar the photographer's view. Made good in
shortly before our departure from New York, his home the Squadron as an entertainer, giving frequent im-
town. He had the misfortune of crushing his foot personations of the "hicks" back home.
while at Ourches ami spent a short time in the hospital at
JAMES W'HOOLEY
Toul, where he made the acquaintance of a few Amer- Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October
ican nurses, which brought a little pleasure to his then
2, 1917. Age, 21 years.
miserable life. Was crew chief at Chatillon, and later
A chauffeur of the first quality, having held down a
mess sergeant. One of the top-notchers for letter
truck seat ever since the Squadron started active duty
writing, and gave enjoyment to many telling stories and
at Ourches. He had many interesting stories to tell
singing comical songs. Was one of the neatest soldiers
about his many trips to the surrounding cities and
in the Squadron and posed occasionally for the camera
(.mills. He was one of our first to visit Paris, going
man.
with his truck and spending a couple of days there.
BOYD SPARKS While at that city he used one of the main thorough-
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,
fares for a garage. His truck was always in commis-
November 1(>, 1917. Age, 19 years.
proving that he was a good mechanic.
sion,
A native of nephew of "Dad"
Kentucky and a
Crance. At various intervals he worked in the kitchen, MICHAEL J. DOWDELL
where he rightfully belonged. Chatillon found him on Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
the field working with the best of them. The boy was November 24, 1917. Age, 21 years.
a "hum-dinger" for work and had an agreeable dispo- One of the original "gas hounds" of the Squadron,
sition which lie wielded wheresoever he went. a regular fellow and an excellent chauffeur. Known
Julson Allen J.L. Wbooley Doiodell Murphy Coale Jones S-D.

Stephens Hogan Thomas Norton Rxine

LeBlanc ffanahan Hull -Shove Williams Sherbv/

Miller '

Roberts Raitan Tyrrell

 639TH AERO SQUADRON 73

to his friends as"Mike" or "Joe". Made sure that his WILLIAM J. STEPHENS
hardest job would be an easy one. Quit driving the Entered the Army Fort
at Severen, Georgia,
touring car because the officers insisted on making long November 10, 1917. Age, 21 years.
trips. Preferred the truck for lie was then sure of "\\ hiskers" was the first motorcycle driver in the
his meals. Never had to spend "jack", and there was outfit. With Ourches as his supply station, he "took
always someone around to put him to bed. With his in" the surrounding country.
As a driver he was a
happy smile and ready supply of smokes, Joe was a true- "whale". While at Chatillon he stole trips to Germany,
friend of the "Gimmeites". Troves, Dijon, and other towns. Was a born mechanic,
hence he never worried about motor troubles. Passed
EDWARD J. MURPHY his cycle and side car for a Packard truck for the

Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, reason that life at the 2nd Corps Aeronautical School
August 16, 1917. Age, 21 years. was too soft to drift far away from. Along with
"Ed" was one of the oldest and most capable non- Murphy and Dowdell he led the life of "Reilly" at
commissioned officers in the Squadron. At Ourches Transportation Headquarters
he was placed in charge of the Transportation and
held the same position at Chatillon. Known to be one WILLIAM J. HOGAN
of those "non-coms" who was always looking out for Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
the true interest of the Transportation and its men.
August 4, 1917. Age, 24 years.
Always in for a good time that did not interfere with "Chauffeur Bill" or "Hash" was with us from the
start. Next to the Quartermaster "Hash" had served
business. His trip to Germany was a purely business
out more corned willie than any other mess sergeant in
trip. Sure it was. Made the Transportation Depart-
ment of the Squadron a strong and efficient depart- France. While at Kelly Field Bill sure fed us in won-
ment. "Ed" was in the King's Army and was wounded
derful style, but when we
France the Q. M. hit Bill
hit
and he in turn nearly killed us. His favorite pastime
at Arras. Later he forsook the King, moved to
was "bawling 'em out." "Treat 'em rough," said Bill,
America and a few days later enlisted in the American
"and you have it all your own way." As a worker
Army. A hard worker and a good manager.
and good fellow there were few who had anything
on him. At Kelly Field, Bill wrote to his home news-
JOHN H. CO ALE
paper, also to one at Albany and one at New York
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
City. "Over There" were numerous,
his acquaintances
November 14, 1917. Age, 18 years.
though Bill favored the cafe waitresses. On numerous
What would his neighbors in Baltimore think if they occasions he gave exhibition clog dances. While a
saw John Harvey traveling around the wilds of France
member of the Transportation he toured France. "This
with the assistance of crutches. It was not because of experience is worth a lot to me," said
"when I get Bill,
advanced age, but because he had the bad luck to sprain
home I'll call the bluff out of any of them who start
his ankle twice. His experiences in France were of a
shooting the bull." At Marsas, where there were no
varied nature and he turned out satisfactory work at
trucks to drive, Bill returned voluntarily to the kitchen,
each place. He had a narrow escape at Ourches, much to the delight of the mess sergeant and the
where he was a tractor expert, when Lieutenant Thaw
Squadron and the C. O.
passing over in a plane knocked the steering gear off
the tractorHarvey was driving, necessitating Harvey's FREDERICK C. THOMAS
sudden departure under the hood. Good natured and Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
fond of children. Was a member of the firm of "Holz August 19, 1917. Age, 22 years.
& Coale" in the photographic business at Chatillon. Another so-called "haster" in our ranks, or at least
Once a student of Captain Fritz' in Baltimore. Had "Red" Stehr called him that. Probably no member of
the pleasure of meeting his brother while at Chatillon. the Squadron saw more of France, or at least under
such pleasing conditions (a softly cushioned seat of a
SYLVESTER ~\ JONES Cadillac) than did Fred. Early in his career as chauf-
Entered the Army at Camp leade, Maryland, Sep-
. feur he guided a truck through miles of mud, but
tember 20, 1917. Age, 22 years. later the touring car fell to his lot.His common ex-
The silent man of the Transportation. A good cuse for being absent at reville was that he had a late-
worker, real mixer. Agreeable and friendly. A Squad- trip the night before. He was one of the "Gold Dust
ron booster. Believed that everyone had a lot of good Twins", Ted Smith being the other. Regarding his
in him. Supported the "Gimmeites" and enjoyed leave experiences Ourches he never tired relating stories
at
parties. Availed himself of School Transportation to regarding the numerous wild times he spent in search
visit as much of France as was allowable. Held the of "coo-coos".
good will of everyone and was often asked to spell the THOMAS F. NORTON
name of the town he hailed from. A tireman by trade Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
and did vulcanizing at Chatillon. A real fellow. August 18, 1917. Age, 22 years.
74 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
A "bean-eater" In birth, but a "non-chauffing chauf- and milk, we are glad to state, were strong enough for

feur" in Uncle Sam's fighting machine. A clever expo "Kannie" during his time with the A. E. F.
iicnt of the staid tendencies of the city from which he
hailed. Gained distinction at Ourches and extinction at
CECIL K. HULL
Entered the Army at Fort Lawton, Washington,
Chatillon, later "coming back" stronger than previously
May Id, 1917. Age. 22 years.
through his able management of the Transportation
"Hones" was a chauffeur for the simple reason that
iifiice, a job requiring beaucoup tact, necessitating so
it gave him a seat at all times. Carried his tools in
many pleasant refusals of officers' requests for unneces-
his moleskin coat so as to have them handy at any
sary transportation. "Tom" divined quite speedily
minute. Drove a touring car that was held together
whether 'twas business or "joy ride" that actuated a
with rope and soap. Always on the lookout for late
request. Made (he P. and M. detail famous and a
parties. Hid very little hard work while at Ourches.
pleasure, taking on weight himself through the medium
Hit the trail and stuck to the water path, with a
of the officers' mess, unknown to them. A real sup-
bucket. At times a frequent exhibitor of gymnastii s
porter of the principles of Epicurus and a well liked
usually around ten p. m. The oldest soldier in point
all-around good fellow in spite of his work as editor
oi service in present enlistment, having "joined up"
in chief of the Squadron Book, to which office lie was
April 2, 1917. Intends to re-enlist.
selected at the Squadron Smoker. He wanted to re-
turn to "civics" as soon as possible to enter politics and HARRY S. SHOVE
enjoy freedom once more. Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York.
December 14. 1917. Age, 22 years.
PAUL D. PAINE Harry joined us at Chatillon and was put to work
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October 4. on the field where his ability on motors allowed him to
1917. Age, 21 years. transfer into the Transportation. This department
A proud product of Chicago who had hut one am- placed him on the motorcycle, where be was at his
bition, and that was to get home. Paul was in charge of best. While there be had opportunities to pay his
various details, later being assigned to the Transporta- respects to various cities and towns, also to acquaint
tion. It was a pleasure for him to he the Colonel's lumsell with the camp celebrities. Always anxious to
chauffeur. This afforded Paul the opportunity to visit receive mail in order that he might know how he stood
man} interesting places in France. Oftentimes he pre- with those back home. Retired early, so as to read
sided at the piano. On the first night when the little new.spapers and magazines and avoid mischief. Had
French piano arrived at the "Y" tent in Ourches he was quite a collection ot sweet snapshots, of which he was
especially busy with the ivories. \ ery proud.
THOMAS M. W ILLIAMS
CAMILLE J. LeBLANC Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York.
2, 1917. Age, 26 years.
November 25, 1917. Age, 21 years. Upon entering the \rim this man would roll one
With twenty-nine others, he was transferred into the
way as well as another, but constant exercise and Army
Squadron at Chatillon, and he brought with him a
rations .soon removed some of bis extra weight and he
fluent flow of the French language. He was with us ».i- able to make a respectable appearance. Speaking
only a short time when given a berth in the Transpor- about automobiles, this man could give positive dates
tationDepartment, where he had no trouble in making about almost every make. It has been his pleasure in
good. His services as an interpreter were appreciated, the past to ride upon the front seat with the best of
as he was responsible for the arrangement of many
them. Motors were not new to him when he arrived
:< times.
1 He played cards occasionally and was for duty upon the field, and in "Chi" he will undoubt-
successful at a game of "Hearts" which he played at a
edly tell them as much about airplanes as he told some
lair maiden's home in Marsas. of us about autos. One fault "Uncle Tom" had was
his inability to keep silence in the ranks, his greatest
JOHN F. RANAHAN. JR.
pleasure being that oi talking.
laitered the Ainu at Fort Slocum, New York,
November 25, 1917. Age, 21 years. FRANCIS J. SHERBY
John E, Jr., hailed from Islip, New Y'ork, and to Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, Xew York,
his town we owe main' thanks for sending such a man August 17, 1917. Age, 23 years.
to France. He was a prominent figure at each enter- This product of the "Bay State" at one time bad
tainment and song fest the Squadron had. Worked the distinction of being the most popular man in the
with others on the pick and shovel detail at Ourches, outfit, as be was mail orderly and that person was
and later in the Transportation at Amanty and Chatillon. always popular. But he soon graduated and during
He, with Paul Byrne, composed several parodies that most of his stay in France held an exalted place upon
were enjoyed, especially in the parade which was the front seat of a truck, behind the wheel, from which
held the evening before we left Chatillon. Lemonade position be was able to obtain a pretty lair view of a
 ^Te639TH AERO SQUADRON 75

considerable amount of France.

While holding this he ate with and can tell the folks back
the officers
high position lie won his stripes, of which he was very home how hot apple pics were relished on the Western
proud. When Sherby had "Doc" Gain out on a trip Front. Shakespeare was his favorite. At Marsas, and
lie always knew thai he was supposed to "step on her." later at Genicart, he served in the capacit) of Squadron
presser.
JOHN P. MILLER
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, Xew York,
IRA C. WAKEFIELD
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York.
August 16, 1917. Age, 23 years.
August (), 1917. Age, 22 years.
"Scotti" was as chic as the)' make 'em. It would
Ira first came into prominence when as one of "Ho-
break his heart if his neatness were overlooked. Was
gan's hash hounds" he boiled radishes. As an assistant
a cook at Kelly Field before the name of "can-openers"
in the Supply he gained many friends
was given that delegation. When at lurches he swuue by his genial and
(
altruistic ways. At Ourches, Ira swung a pick as hard
his pick with the best of them, going to work with a
and as long as an)
of them, and was a star at baseball.
crease in his overalls that cut the grass. Chatillon
At Chatillon, the Radio heard of how hack home in
found him on the plane, and later on the Transportation
Maine, Ira had been a telegraph operator, so claimed
roster. Found enjoyment in preparing for inspections his services. Ducking Liberties and Sops got on Ira's
and learning French. Took it very much to heart nerve to such an extent that he was forced to take a
when bis name was not called at mail call. Was for-
leave. Conscientious, a hard worker, and quiet (except
ever boosting Brooklyn and Xew York. when someone made a disparaging remark about the
WILLIAM B. ROBERTS Maine Central).
Entered the Army at Camp Upton, New York, Sep EDGAR G. YARNEY
tember 29, 1917. Age, 21 years. Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, Xew York,
Most of us are satisfied now that this war is over, August 16, 1917. Age, 24 years.
and much has been said about the possibilities of our The only man in the outfit from New Hampshire
being present in case of another war, but "Pepper" is Was made famous by his winning smile and clever
of another frame of mind. He wants just one more dances and songs. His characteristic position was run-
war, and that with the Chinese. He has a particular ning up to an incoming outfit to see if there were
any
liking for this race of people, so he told us one eve- New Hampshire men in the company. "Ed" was a third
ning in France. This citizen from Greenpoint also had lieutenant, missing out out on his commission
because
another friend, a fireman by trade, of whom he often the war finished too soon. Made a successful clothing
spoke. But putting aside his enemies and the troubles merchant in the Squadron. His greatest ambition was
they caused him, he had a few pleasures, the greatest to work on Van Every \ farm after the war. Traveled

being the day he joined the Transportation. extensively while in France.

THOMAS E. RATTAN AARON COPELAND

Entered the Army at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, Entered the Army at Camp Meade, Maryland, Sep-
August 30, 1917. Age, 21 years. tember 29, 1917. Age, 27 years.
When the name of this gentleman was mentioned we Aaron is not a professor of languages, but he cer-
naturally thought of the large cotton fields of Texas, tainly should have been with his mastery of German,
where Tom resided as an agriculturist. Tom played brench, Yiddish, Arabic and English. He claims Swit-
cards occasionally for pastime — and francs. Liked to zerland as his former residence and had the title of
talk id" his work on airplanes in England, British disci- "Admiral of the Swiss Navy" conferred upon him while
pline,and the difference in the mess that was placed in the A. E. F. He was a busy gentleman upon our
in hismess kit at Chatillon. Upon the field his favorite arrival at Brest, and later at St. Maixent, parleying
ship was No. 27, and one day it became necessary for with the French people. At the latter place, he acted
him to use a lasso to pull the ship down. He worked as interpreter for the laundry man. Enjoyed himself
as a chauffeur and assisted in the kitchen at Marsas, always, but especially during the Jewish holidays. Not
where lie did his work willingly and well. only did he prove himself a utility man, with reference
to his linguistic abilities, but also showed that he could
PARK H. TYRRELL adapt himself to many kinds of work connected with
Entered the Army at Fort McDowell, California,
the Squadron, such as helping John Burns in the Supply,
November 6, 1917. Age, IS years:
as serving as officer's orderly, doctor's assistant, etc.
"Tid" was one of our live wires, always taking part
in anything that required pep. Shortly after our arri- RICHARD F. BEE
val at Maixent the dampness and "Tid" did not
St. Entered the Army New York, Octo-
at Fort Slocum,
agree, so he spent most of bis time while there in tin- ber 19, Age, 28 years.
1917.
hospital, much to the advantage of those members of "He was as busy as a bee" could well as applied to
the Squadron who were occupying beds in the same this individual. After meeting the convoy escorts on
hospital and were billed for "light diet". At Ourches the way to France, it was a pleasure for Dick, and
 Wakefield Vorne\) Copelcmd
Zesinger Knowles Sennolf J.RBurns

Weeks Johnson We-stby Quirw JWPaul

Holz Cudworth Knut-son Widcjer
 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON 77

other Eormer telegraphers, to try to read the messages JOHN B. BURNS

that were sent from the wireless stations. This product Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
of Medford, Massachusetts, also kept the women at August 17, 1917. Age, 27 years.
Ourches busy cooking dainty meals for him, as he had "Honest John" was the cognomen wished on the
been blessed with a "bon appetit." On Sundays, he above subject, and no one ever assailed its appropriate-
occupied his time parleying with the mademoiselles of ness. A red genius, inasmuch as he acquitted himself
Vaucouleurs. Most of his time in the Army was spent of the duties of supply sergeant to the equal satisfac-
in the Supply game, where he demonstrated his ability tion of the C. O. and the men, a seeming impossibility.
as a clerk. An ambitious young man, and a hustler. Had no enemies, although he argued with every man
in the outfit. Was responsible for the first literary
WILLIAM R. ZESINGER activity- in the Squadron, when he published the "Daily
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Squeak" at Ourches, serving later on the editorial

November 7, 1917. Age, 20 years. staffs of "Contact" and the Squadron Book. He got
and our the best the Quartermaster had in the clothing line, and
Bill hails from South Bend, Indiana, hit
squadron at Kelly Field in December, 1917, arriving
always knew when the Q. M. received a shipment.
from the lines at Kelly Field after doing his share of Passed a successful examination for grade of sergeant
first class, but the vacancies expected with a change of
guard duty amidst the sandstorms. He fell in love
with the "Top" when placed on duty at Garden ity, (
organization did not materialize.

Xew York, after answering sick call that morning. He

spent a short time in the hospital at St. Maixent, but LEON I. WEEKS
later enjoyed hot apple pies on the Western Front. At Entered the Army Fort Logan, Colorado,
at Novem-
Ourches he received passes to Toul, Nancy, and other ber 20, 1917. Age, 21 years
places of interest. At Chatillon, bis ambitious turned This gentleman was with the Squadron when we
towards aerial gunnery, and bis services as aerial gun- left Kelly Field and was later known in the A. E. F.
nery instructor brought him deserved promotion. as the "Iron Burner," due to the fact that he was a
blacksmith and possessed an iron grip. He had the
KNOWLES misfortune of losing some of his equipment while
ERNEST A.
celebrating in one of the cars on our way to the Front.
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
He was fond of boxing and clever at the game. On
August 6, 1917. Age, 22 years.
one occasion he mistook the waterbag for a man he
Although his home is in New England, he is not the
was after and sparred with the innocent lyster bag
gentleman who entered the Maine woods some time
for several moments before he realized his mistake.
ago with nothing on but his birthday suit. At Ourches,
he was ill for some time, but after leaving that station
OSCAR G JOHNSON
he enjoyed his stay in France, and on occasions he sur-
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October S,
prised the multitude with his Biblical readings. He did
1917. Age, 29 years.
good work in the Supply department at Chatillon, even
Oscar ranked next to "Abe" Boiler when it came to
though he never answered the telephone calls, and
receiving mail, but the out-going bags did net contain
showed those in charge that he had had previous ex-
asmany of Oscar's epistles as it did those from "Abe."
perience at that work. Another man with good ambi-
The only cause we can think of is the fact that Oscar
tion and energy.
is a "benedict". He showed his ability as a machinist
at was a champion at the game of bil-
Chatillon and
HENRY P. SENNOTT liards at Marsas where he met and defeated the best
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, of them. Yery quiet and seldom committed himself,
August 18, 1917. Age, 20 years. but occasionally said, "I wish I were home."
This non-chauffing chauffeur hailed from somewhere
on the Atlantic Coast. He was a type of "good soldier," LLOYD V. W'ESTBY.
due to the fact that he got his early training at Fort Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
Slocum where he learned that it was advisable to keep ber IS, Age, 19 years.
1917.
his own counsel. He took delight in relating the his- This gentleman was among the large number that
tory of the 26th Division. His work in the Squadron were transferred into the Squadron at Kelly Field in
was pick and shovel, supply work, and as gunnery ex- December, 1917, shortly before we entrained for Gar-
pert in the Armory. It was his good fortune to be den City. He was one of the first men to do transpor-
sent to the Aerial Gunnery School at Tours. This was" tation work at Ourches, driving a truck at first and
a vacation that pleased him. He favored the French later working in the shop. At Chatillon he worked in
families with his real American smile and gold tooth. the machine shop and through hard work increased his
At Ourches, he won a medal and almost the heart of a rating and pay. After this took place he let us know-
fair maid who sold cigars to him daily. that he was prosperous and smoked nothing but cigars
78 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON
when they were obtainable. At Genicart he was one LLOYD H. KNUTSON
of the sergeants in charge of the "cootie mill." Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
ber 15, 1917. Age, 22 years.
NICHOLAS S. QUINN Cozad, the home of Knutson, was never heard of
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
by any member of the Squadron previous to our meet-
Vugust 16, 1917. Age, 26 years. ing "Knut." During our stay in France, the little town
This gentleman had the distinction of having more of Cozad was well advertised by its agent, Knut. It
friends than any other member of the Squadron. was his pleasure to tell how he supervised the harvest-
Through hi-* knowledge of guns and mechanical ability ing of hay and grain, and instead of using the command
he was offered a position as an inspector of arms, with "Double time" he substituted, "Come on a runnin'."
a good salary and "stay-at-home" job, hut turned it
He worked as a cook at Ourches, and also as mechanic
down in order to go to France as a soldier. Hi- was
in the Transportation Department. He was later in
anxious to fly, even after having been in an airplane
charge of the machine shop at Chatillon. Billiards and
accident, which, fortunately, resulted in no one being
cards had a strong appeal to Knut.
injured. Especially quiet, but can tell his friends of a
few good times he had while in the service. During JAY K. WIDGER
his spare tune he did barbering and raked in some Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York.
extra francs. August 21, 1917. Age, 23 years.
h MIX \\. PAUL When this man arrived at Kelly Field he selected
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York. the kitchen at his home. He knew little of the culinary
August 17, 1917 Age, 25 years. art but was willing to learn. Lemon extract to flavor
"Kill' had his and troubles and quit the
trials Army meat gravy was one of his first experiments in cook-
a wiser boy. He was always willing and ready to get ing. He was fond of kicking the "Top" out of the
the other fellow's point of view. Mill labored with kitchen On leaving the States, he left the "Water
the best them at Ourches. At Chatillon he hit the
(if Burner's Union" and fell into line with the rest of
hall hard, making good in the machine shop. This cer- us. Arriving in France, he saw a possibility of getting
tainly was his "regular line" and he seemed the most something more to his liking, and when the Squadron
pleased man in the outfit, even though he did remark at began doing service work he was again associated with
times that he wished he was hack in the Artillery. He his old companions, motors.
was a movie fan, consistent letter writer, and was fond
mi drilling men. JAMES W. TRUSSELL
EDWIN K. HOLZ Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri,

Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, Septem- December 8, 1917. Age, 38 years.
ber 8, 1917. Age, 26 years. Here is represented another man with a "Dad" pre-

This man knew motors pretty well and aided in the fix, who was transferred into the Squadron in August,

transportation at Ourches by his consistent supervision. 1918. We often thought that this soldier camouflaged

Assisted in and later took charge of the magneto

his age a order to do his bit in the great war.
trifle in

room at Chatillon. He played game for the picture He enjoyed his spare moments, after the signing of

all it was worth and during his spare moments was

the armistice, in the manufacture of canes. No doubt
seen studying. Owner of numerous souvenirs, among you will see several former A. E. F. men sporting one
of "Dad's" canes on Fifth Avenue. Has traveled much
which are many notes receivable. However, Ed is on
A man of strong moral and is very well read. Finds pleasure in talking to the
the long end of the sheet.
boys on motors of any kind, particularly on tractors.
character. Select as to friends and in the manner he
spent, or held on to his money.
IRVING ACKERMAX
GEORGE T. CUDWORTH Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, October 23, 1917. Age, 19 years.
November IS, 1917. Age, 22 years. A young XT ew Yorker thoroughly trained in Eng-
This product of Assounet. Massachusetts, though land on the motors. Entered the Squadron at Chatillon-
young in years, tried to appeal ami have the wisdom of sur-Seine. Never had been higher than a private,
a man. At cards he would call, provided he had four though he would a pilot be. Had eleven flying

of a kind. As for Iron Crosses, it was not uncom- hours to his beaucoup francs.
credit, also Was a
mon for him to lay down fifty francs for a single speci- member of the firm of Ackerman and Ladenson. This
men. And as for trips to Paris, he helped himself. firm had a corner on their line of goods profits any- —
"Rouge" can tell exactly what the French itch is like, where from fifty to one hundred per cent; but
as he had a little experience with it at one time. Hav- neither member could pass at inspection. A firm advocate
ing spent a part of his life in Boston, he enjoyed a mi" permanent special duty. Had all the qualifications
mess of beans and allowed no one to reproach the of an officer, excepting the bars, though these, too, has
Hub-of-the-Universe. he sold.
 MHH HHH

TVussell flckerman Warrick Yohe Cochrane

Phoebus Reiferf Demmon Pilgram Jessup

Umlauf Imhoff Hicks Crance Taylor Curren

Vensky GCAIIen Boiler Former) Hallinan
80 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
ELVIN WARRICK Surely, although he has caused no trouble, we do not
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, ( )hio, consider it an appropriate name for him. He is small
November 13, 1917. Age, 21 years. in stature, but possesses an abundance of importance.
Toledo, and neighboring towns, will hear many We never could understand how "Petit" was placed
interesting stories from Warrick, who, in drawling in the second platoon with men all taller than himself.
tones, we believe will tell of his experiences in France. He was among the first in the Transportation. Worked
This gentleman had many narrow escapes while on the on the field at Chatillon. Was a good booster for
field and on furlough. He was one of our best chess- Hackettstown. An admirer of mademoiselles and soft
players and was fond of literature. His enlistment drinks.
into the Army took him from home for the first time
LAWRENCE REIFERT
and he has no doubt profited a great deal by his ex-
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
periences. Morally, he was the best of men, and was
November 13, 1917. Age, 20 years.
satisfied with coffee as a stimulant.
Toledo sent a man who assisted the Squadron in
many ways. A fair maid of St. Germain taught this
THOMAS F. YOHE soldier to parlez vous. He did a great deal of car-
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
when
pentering the camp
Ourches was being con-at
August 17, 1917. Age, 21 years.
structed, andproved himself capable at Chatillon,
later
As a linguist, this man could not be beaten. His
assembling, aligning, and rebuilding airplanes. He was
vocabulary contained countless new words, and as for
quiet, fond of literature that was instructive with re-
speaking French, he was very fluent. Let it be said
gard to his daily duties. A sociable fellow and popular
of Tom that although he gained the dislike of the pri-
among the rest of the men of the outfit.
vates at Kelly Field, he was not a bad soldier in
France. His ingenuity afforded much amusement, for
ERNEST DEMMON
he constructed our first aeroplane long before we
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
crossed the sea, and always had something original November Age, 20 years.
15, 1917.
with which to entertain the boys. As a cup winner, he A quiet, persistent worker. Earned his two stripes
took first prize for "ground time," frequently getting and always did a good day's work without kicking. At
more time on the ground than in the air. "Bum dogs" Ourches "Dem" was to be found carting hangar beams
was his nickname at one time, but upon our completion
all over the field, much to the delight of the lazy ones.
of pick and shovel work at Ourches, the "dogs" came
During our early days upon the field at Chatillon, it
around. While residing at Chatillon, he operated an
was a common sight to see this soldier as 'he passed
ammunition junk shop, causing his neighbors many a
among the ships with his pail of "dope," leaving his
sleepless night, expecting to lie blown into eternity every mark upon every plane before he left. Learned con-
time Tom moved his barrack bag. He spent much struction of planes thoroughly, and took an interest in
time and effort on the pots and kettles at Marsas and his work.
Genicart.
HENRY W. PILGRAM
CLARENCE E. COCHRANE Entered the Army at Camp Dodge, Iowa, September
Entered the Army at Camp Travis, Texas, Septem- 21, 1917. Age, 21 years.
ber 20, 1917. Age, 24 years. When we think back to the evening previous to our
Very few men of the Squadron knew that Clarence departure from Garden City, and the wrestling matches
had a half interest in a "quick lunch" cafe back in held at the barracks, we think of "Pill," who met and
Oklahoma. Cooking was an art lie seldom spoke of, floored all who came his way. He worked hard, with
for he knew that at one time, had it been known that never a complaint, at Ourches, on the excavating and
be was a skilled kitchen mechanic, he would have construction of the hangars. He was fond of good
been assigned to do his bit in the kitchen. "The Squaw times and anxious to make friends, which he had no
Man," as he was known to his friends, is one of those trouble in accomplishing, as he was one of the most
happy continually jumping individuals, forever on good popular fellows in the outfit. At Chatillon, he worked
terms with every man in the Squadron. Had a great in the Engineering and Repair Department, and by
liking for hard work and plenty of it. Was fond of conscientious work gained his stripes.
"bunk fatigue" and his upper berth was occupied by
him on an average of 14 hours a day. CLIFFORD JESSCP
Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, August
PERCY H. PHOEBUS 12, 1917. Age, 23 years.
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, Whether this gentleman was the same quiet individual
August 4, 1917. Age, 20 years. back in Iowa, or whether the horrors of war were the
The largest problem any member of the A. E. F. cause of his silence, is not known. But we have applied
ever had confront him, provided he knew this gen- to "Jess" the saying, "By their deeds ye shall know
tleman, was, "Who named him Percy, any way?" them," and can say that he always did his work well,
 5fe 6 3 9TH AERO SQUADRON 81

regardless of what his duties were He worked as a back home committed a sin against the A. E. F. by-
carpenter in the construction of the camp at Ourches, placing the U. S. on a "hone dry" basis. Claimed that
and later in the E. & R. shop at Chatillon. He is fond this impediment to one's rights might easily be over-
of his good times, and enjoyed more than one while in come by a little nerve. Always a hard worker.
Hated
France. He is an authority on airplane propellers. all non-coms; wouldn't one if he could.
be Liked
inspection, as it afforded him an opportunity to show up.
ALFRED UMLAUF
THOMAS L. TAYLOR
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
August 21, 1917. Age, 31 years.
ber 14, 1917. Age, 22 years.
"Al," as he was known, showed the hoys that he
The town of Colby, Kansas, sent a good representa-
had the goods. His work at Kelly Field in the kitchen
tive when they "Tom," who became a member of
sent
and at various places in Frame always nut with the
the 639th Aero Squadron at Kelly Field shortly before
favor of At Kelly Field he started a small bon-
all.
our departure for "Over There." After our arrival at
one nice summer evening and was given
fire in his tent
Saint Maixent, "Tom" worried considerably for fear
an unexpected shower hath by a man who acted as
that the Squadron woidd never do service, and that
fireman. He was a good mechanic, carpenter, and a
he would be S. O. L. His quiet attitude and willingness
painter of no mean ability. His work was an asset to
to help others won him many friends. No doubt he
the Squadron. "Al" was one of those fellows who
will tell his friends back home how he won a leather
always favored prohibition.
medal in a sleeping contest at Ourches also of the ;

enjoyment derived from buying and smoking cigarettes

JAMES F. IMHOFF in France —
things that he cannot do at home.
Entered the Army at Camp Meade, Maryland,
November 6, 1917. Age, 29 years. ERNEST CURREN
"Jim," as he was known in the A. E. F., possessed Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
many good traits, among which we may mention that November Age, 20 years.
11, 1917.
he was
a conscientious worker. He was always on An artist of nature, surrounded by beautiful French
the job around the barracks, but no matter bow busy models. Who could ask for more? Such was the
always found time to listen to news that the war would pitiful lot of Ernest when he came to France to fight
soon end, while after the signing of the Armistice he for home and made the best
liberty. Nevertheless, he
welcomed "going home" news. He was a constant of it and saw Long hikes to him were
a thing or two.
patron of the movies and other entertainments, and nothing, and undoubtedly he saw much of interest
made many calls at the "Y" — especially when there while away. As to sleep, this man was a past master
were any female canteen workers present. He almost at that art; "Early to bed and late to rise" was his
won the heart of one of the fairer sex in Chatillon. motto. His artistic abilities gained him popularity as
a brass shell decorator, and it was a common sight to
ROY L. HICKS see him drawing designs for his friends to pound out.
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, He once won a watch in a raffle, which was more luck
November 14, 1917. Age, 19 years. than most of us could boast of. He was the original
The boy with the "mean left." Worked in all of inventor of the bunk cabinet for the head of one's
the several occupations in At Garden
the Squadron. bunk, this being copied by his comrades who built like
City, for some misdemeanor, Roy was detailed to wash conveniences.
the barracks windows, also to do the same going over
GUSTAV VENZKE
on the boat. As there w-ere no windows to be washed Army
Entered the at Fort Slocum, New York,
on the boat, Roy felt as though he was "putting some- November 21, 1917. Age, 27 years.
thing over." Liked whatever he was told to do, for The smallest man in the outfit, and transferred into
no matter how mean a job it was Roy always found the Squadron from the 229th Aero Squadron at Garden
something funny about it. Took great enjoyment in City shortly before our departure from that station.
sports. Believed in open criticism and shunned all He gained some publicity after the first publication of
non-coms. Was first in mess line and first for seconds, "Contact," as "Battler" was advertised as one of our
always. top-notch pugilists. It was "Battler" who sang the
BOYD CRANCE first song at the Squadron Smoker and surprised the
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, audience with his melodious baritone. He was always
November 16, 1917. Age, 38 years. in trouble when it came to getting anything
like a
"Dad" to the boys. "Handy man" to the orderly correct fit in the clothing line. "I'm Tying the Leaves
room. Barber when broke. Downtown student of so They Won't Come Down" was sung by Venzke with
French when hungry. An authority on the history of great success before a large and appreciative audience
Kentucky and railroading. Believed that the people one night in February.
 a

We 639TH AERO SQUADRON

GEORGE C. ALLEN FRANK h. IK \NEK

Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, Septem-
December 15, 1917. Age, 28 years. ber 17, Age, 22 years.
1917.

George was ever willing and ready to listen to any- WhenChicago sent this man to the Army little did
one's complaint;-, and was verj sympathetic. These she realize to what extent she was about to impose
qualities have enabled this soldier to enjoy his life in upon that organization. Nevertheless, we were made
the Army. At Chatillon, he favored the "Y" during aware of the fact that he had entered the Service, for
Miss Mann's presence. Worked on the field during he settled in our midst. We often thought that things
our entire stay at the 2nd Corps Aeronautical School, must he rather quiet back home with him away, as his
where he "picked up" a great deal of experience on powers oi speech were continually receiving training
the Liberty motors. A good mixer. Never enjoyed Upon the flying field his frequent call for "a little help
Ins sojourns in the kitchen, hut made the most of them, on Hi" became a by-word, and he was not speechless
as he was anxious to put on a few extra pounds. upon the day when he found his best russet shoes,
which he had taken to the hangar to be cleaned, filled
EBERHART .1. l'.OLLER with soft soap and graphite. Often upon his return
Entered the Aran at Camp Grant, Illinois, October from town just previous to taps being blown, his voice
2, 1917. Age, 24 years. would rise above all others in the barracks as he gave
"Abe" proved himself a soldier, hut not a sailor; vent to bis "hot dog" yell and acclaimed to all who
during our voyage from Hoboken to France he spent might listen regarding the wonders of "Chi."
many a sleepless night. One commodity that cost "Abe"
considerable francs in France was stationery. Itwas EDWARD J. KENNEDY
his daily duty to correspond with some fair maiden in Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, September
22, 1917. Age, 2d years.
the vicinity of Wausau. IK undoubtedly can give the
mail service of the A. E. F. a boost by presenting his
No doubt the Commanding Officer looked up this

statistics. His cackling laugh was appropriate, especially

man's record, as Edward was one of those selected to
do M. P. duty at Ourches. This gentleman will un-
when we were quartered in billets at (lurches and
doubtedly hold many an interested audience in "Chi"
Marsas. Due to training and ability, this man won the
coveted M. E. berth in our Squadron something we — telling of the trench life and his "Nieuport" on the
were all glad to see him win. Although not possessing
\\ estern Front. "Tiny" was not an appropriate name
a remarkable voice, lie enjoyed singing "K-K-K-Katie."
for a man of his size, but he was probably christened
thus because of bis splendid attendance at sick call.

LOUIS FORMAN On November 11 he was among the first of the 639th

Entered the Army at Fort McDowell. California, Squadron to let Chatillon know that we bad received
November 16, 1917. Age, the good news and were going to celebrate the victory.
18 years.
Though Louis never put the steel into a "Hun," lie
(heel lul rumors were welcomed by him at all times.

had his troubles with barbed wire entanglements, going CALEB L. YORK
over the top quite often. While at Ourches, he labored Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Novem-
allday with the pick and shovel and favored our little ber 11, 1917. Age, 21 years.
tramway with heaucoup overtime. This, the soldier
A "Hoosier" by birth, but anything but that in the
claimed, was worth what be had enjoyed. At Chatillon,
literal sense of the word. nickname as
Earned bis
as a member of the Top Kick's squad, be sure beat the
Ourches because he dropped one of
"Screw-driver" at
Army. An elegant speaker on the charms of the Pacific
those articles into the differential gear while repairing
Coast, though he did not hail from there. A continual
a camion, and then forgot to remove it. Rendered
smile, a frozen band, and a flower} tongue excellent services in the capacity of chauffeur, airplane
crew chief, and lastly, as Top Kick. Possesses a bear
\\ \1.TKK HALKINAN
of a voice for that job and made the most popular and
Entered the Army at Camp Upton, New York,
October S, 1917. Age, 23 years.
the most useful Top Sergeant
the outfit ever had —
man among men. wonderful entertainer, and was
Is a
"Mutts" was so quiet that his presence was overlooked
the village cut-up back in Silverwood, Indiana. Spent
by Never a growl or dissenting word from
many,
several years at Purdue to satisfy his ambition to
Walter. At Ourches, with the pick and shovel brigade
become a veterinary. Accomplished heaucoup with the
be did more than his bit, and was usually to be found
Frog lingo, hut always remembered the "girl he left
on the heavy end of a job "rearing to go." In charge
behind." Belonged to the category who could not bid
of Barracks No. o at Chatillon, Walter worked hard
"an revoir" to the khaki too soon.
at all times, so that his "charge" was always prepared
for inspection. Forever anxious to obtain newspapers, JAMES J. KLEMA
so that he could follow the doings of his three brothers Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri,
who were in khaki. October 26, 1917. Age, 22 years.
 : : '—?— -
.
-
i
.111 m i'

MilleH Schultz Armstrong, Vbr> Every Morns Barrons

M c Govern, RKMortori Parks Whi+worfn Redman
84 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
Little did "Jay Jay" think when he left Cicero with WILLIAM R. FRASER
his cards, "I. J. Klema, After the Kaiser," that he Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, August
would he taken a prisoner in the Battle of Chatillon on 6, 1917. Age, 29 years.
the day the Armistice was signed. However, he was One of the hardest working boys in the outfit. Willing
not detained long by the "Germans." J. J. was down to entertain at all times, even if he had to eat glass to
to weight shortly after our arrival at Ourches, the do so. Famous for his capacity and ability to eat
cause of which is still a mystery in many minds. He glass. A soldier who had received the full reward for
was entertained by friends in Pagny-sur-Meuse, and his work. Had seen active service in the kitchen at
entertained the Squadron by rendering vocal selections Kelly Field, St. Maixent, and Ourches. One of the
on several different occasions at Chatillon. He also only three real cooks in the outfit. (Made fine cakes.)
possessed the talent of a poet. Opposed to prohibition and made arrangements to go
to Kentucky with "Dad" Crance. Had the knack of
FRANK PAVLIK finding a "home" and holding on to it while in France.

Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, September Built and Hew an airplane in Canada, and, therefore,

IS, mi 7. Age, 23 years. joined the Air Service soon after war was declared.

"Pav" was one of the best soldiers in the outfit.

\\ hen nature endowed that soldier with the shoulders
CONSTANTINE G. JUDEIK1S
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October
she did it was done for a purpose, said purpose being
2, 1917. Age, 27 years.
to be assigned to nearly all the heavy details. Quiet,
It is a saying that "large bodies move slowly," but
unassuming, and willing to do whatever he was told.
this cannot be truthfully applied to Constantine. Many
Pick, shovel, and wheelbarrows helped to put him in
who worked with him in the excavating game at
condition for the bard labor at Chatillon. There he
Ourches often remarked that be did more than his
labored on the field and did good work. Hailed from
share. His pick was busy from morning till night.
Chicago, and was more than anxious to return there.
While there the non-coms did not have to inform him
that each swing meant one more knock on the Kaiser's
CHARLES F. WADDELL head. He was always contented and often remarked
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October
that any place he hung his hat was "Home Sweet
5, 1917. Age, 29 years.
Home" to him. He always wore his overseas cap
Another Chicagoan, and like a few more of our old- tilted to one side like many other "reckless 'aviators,"
timers, had the monniker "Dad" conferred upon him and practised the French custom of economy always.
while in the Army. Shortly previous to our departure Quite often, when many were borrowing francs and
from Garden City, New York, this gentleman was very sous, this gentleman was flush with them.
sick and for a day or two it was doubtful whether or

not be would be able to make the trip with us. Although REGINALD C. MILLETT
the Squadron was held in quarantine at St. Maixent, Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
"Dan McCarthy" saw a good portion of the city. August 16, 1917. Age, 19 years.
Ourches saw him as a tractor expert, while at Chatillon This elongated specimen of humanity first saw light
he was chief of one of the hangars. In the parade in in Boston, which city he will always claim for bis
Chatillon "Dad" held down the pilot's seat in the residence. Varied have been his experiences since
mounted fuselage. He expected to re-enlist. entering the Service, especially so in France. He can
never be forgiven by a few for the night be piloted
PAUL FUGLEBURG the weary guard relief over the hills at Ourches amid
Entered the Army at Fort McDowell, California, a roar of big guns, and finally landed them upon the
November 22, 1917. Age, 19 years. banks of the Meuse before he became wise as to his
Here we have before us one of the firm of Connor whereabouts. At Amanty, as supervisor of the Squadron
& Fugleburg, souvenir manufacturers and distributers. details, he also had his troubles. All the French
Speaking of persons with extensive linguistic abilities, maids fell for Reggie and the rats liked him so well

this man on occasions had them all beat. He could that they ate his clothing, necessitating a visit to the

give more details concerning percentages than any Belgian girls for repairs. "Stringhean" was his Army
mathematician. Regarding the making of bunks, he nickname.
had us all beat; about three swings and a couple of LAWRENCE E. SCHCLTZ
jabs and his blankets were spread and tucked, ready Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,
for bis later return and a good night's sleep. Although November 13, 1917. Age, 28 years.
a mechanic on the field, this young man could doll up An authority on the steam engine. He took delight
in a tailored uniform, cap placed jauntily upon one ear, in explaining the advantages of the American-made
go to town, and win a salute from any rookie. Cannot locomotive over those of foreign countries. When
be convinced that the M. P.'s won the war. put on any kind of technical job, it would take him but
 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 85

a short time to master it. Was fond of relating his but was not popular as such among the boys, because
past accomplishments. Spent much time in studying he occasionally got his wires mixed, resulting in dark-
motors, as he was of the opinion that the future of ness for the rest of us until fuses could be located.
the automohile would be promising. Was well versed Had ambition to be a pilot. In speaking of the most
on all 'labor problems and often remarked that "lie was exciting incidents in his Army career, he told of tin-

sorry he did not attend Officers' Training Camp." night he had spent on the upper deck of the Agamemnon
when the lifeboats dipped in the sea and caps were of
GEORGE E. ARMSTRONG necessity placed over the smokestacks to prevent the
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, water from running down them and putting the furnaces
November 25, 1917. Age, 17 years. out.
Ability, dormant. There were few jobs in the Army JAMES A. McGOVERN
that appealed to George. He
pound in never lost a Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York. August
weight, as he knew the combination to every mess 17, 1917. Age, 19 years.
hall and availed himself of the same. He broke more "Commander-in-Chief" of the Police and Mainten-
pick, shovel, and rake handles than any other man in ance. He was also the non-commissioned officer in
the outfit.There were only two calls that appealed to charge of the wood detail at Ourches. "Mac" was by
George — pay and —
mess calls and he always took special nature a man's man. He could kid them when neces-
care to be present, fearing that somebody might get sary and "bawl 'em out" when circumstances warranted
something on him. Felt that his vacation in the Army it. Always produced. The men enjoyed working
built him up, and after the signing of the Armistice, under him, for when the job was finished one could
anxiously awaited the homeward bound transport. quit, a rare quality in a non-commissioned officer. His
one hope was to get back to "Bean Town" and see his
RIPLEY VAN EVERY own. He did not like France or French fires, but was
Entered the Army at Camp Lewis, Washington, always happy and ready to entertain. He was among
November 5, 1917. Age, 29 years.
the lucky ones in obtaining a "home" at Ourches.
Gained prominence in the Squadron at Chatillon
through his promotion and subsequent article in "Con- RUSH R. MORTON
tact." Continually wore a smile, and, although a Entered the Army Fort Thomas,
at Kentucky,
trifle phlegmatic, did his work well. He possessed the November 19, 1917. Age, 14 years.
mildest disposition of any man in the outfit. "Kip" or "Soldier" was without doubt one of the most capable
"Van" hailed from Rupert, Idaho, to which place he mechanics in the Squadron. His retiring disposition
was affectionately attached. He often promised that he had allowed many to wear that to which Rush was justly
would give anyone a job on bis farm, and this strongly entitled. This young man never complained, feeling
appealed to Sergeant Varney. Rip proved to be a that we were there to do our bit. If we got credit, all
banker of exceptional promise. right; if we were overlooked, our conscience was in

no way troubled. Always wore a happy smile which

FORREST L. MORRIS Rush had the credit
did justice to his pearl-white teeth.
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
of being on good terms with every man in the outfit.
November 13, 1917. Age, 26 years.
Music hath its charms, and so had Morris. He was JOSEPH PARKS
J.
one of the most agreeable men in the Squadron and an Entered the Army at Fort Douglass, Utah, November
exceptionally good bugler, for which we had a iust 1, 1917. Age, 26 years.
right to be proud of him. On state occasions, his Joe's ability to handle the pick brought forth the
notes did justice to the event. Filled in, in several of interesting had been a miner out in the
fact that he
the most important positions in the Squadron. Was a
Butte district. This experience proved of value to him
previous Service man, whose training proved to be of at Ourches, where for many long weeks we labored
advantage to many. Believed that he had worn the with such tools. A very quiet fellow and always ready
khaki long enough and wanted to get back to railroad- to work. During his time off, he took pleasure in
ing. Was a consistent worker for the best interests of reading and taking long walks. Had many friends in
the Squadron. the Squadron.

WILLIAM T. BARRANS HENRY W. WHITWORTH

Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem- Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, August
ber 27, 1917. Age, 22 years. 21, 1917. Age, 20 years.
School teachers are usually of a retiring nature, and A man of artistic nature. Handy with the brush when
this was true of Bill. One of his greatest pleasures it came to decorating some object like a fuselage.
while in Chatillon was that of retiring to his upstairs Especially so regarding the one we drew through the
bunk and indulging in a period of reading or writing. streets of Chatillon on our last night there. As to his
This individual was also somewhat of an electrician, mechanical ability upon the field, he was proud of his
86 <3fe 639TH AERO SQUADRON
"A. R." and when the Libert} planes began to arrive best suit.Never a hard day's work did this native of
he lost no time in getting one of them, that lie might Roumania do. Always plied the needle. Kept over
become acquainted with the mechanism of the motor half the receipts, turning the remainder over the Squad-
at once. n hi fund. With his leaves and special religious holi-
GUY \\ REDMAN days he had the Army beat. Didn't care whether the

Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, war lasted ten years or less. Spoke enough French and
November 1917. Age, 21 years. English to get by. Forever talked about eats, new
28,
styles, and San Francisco. Unconsciously, an enter-
It was well that France had a good supply of mirrors
tainer of no mean ability.
for sale while we were there, for without them this
"guy" would never have been contented. Owing to the
large supply, it was possible for "Red" to have one. WILFORD THOMPSON
He availed himself of the opportunity to look at Ins Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,

pleasant countenance frequently. He was among the May 4, 1917. Age, 2D years.

"can-opener crew" at one time at Ourcbes, and later

II we ever desired advice as to how farming was
where he worked on the done in Michigan, this gentleman was consulted. He
at Chatillon, also field and
rendered good service. During his spare was one of the oldest in point of service in the Squad-
time he
ron and made good on the field, having had consider-
enjoyed boxing and ranked among the best in the
able experience on airplanes in England. It was his
Squadron.
ambition to become a pilot. He spent several hours in
VITO BUONO the air and could tell some interesting tales regarding
Entered the Army at Camp Upton, New York, forced landings. He told us stories of France that we
September 23, 1917. Age, 23 years. enjoyed very much. Enjoyed playing cards occasionally.
lust because this gentleman was commonly seen at

Ourches with a was known

hatchet and level, and
MORRIS ROLLO
there as the "level man," did not signify that he was a laitered the Army at Camp Upton, New York, Octo-
weakling and could not do manual labor. This he ber 1917. Age, 23 years.
8,
proved to many one da\ when he carried a Four
Morris hailed from Brooklyn, where early in hie he
hundred-pound stone upon his shoulders, resembling
accustomed himself to hard work and plenty of it. In
the Atlas of old. At Chatillon he had the misfortune the Army he worked hard While at Garden City this
of losing a pair of breeches, and when "first call" future non-com went A. W O. L., a thing he never
.

sounded his cry of "Who stolla da britch" met with regretted as he saw all his folks and those to be. Did
no response. The fact that General Orders would not penance for this act while crossing the pond. Was a
permit him to visit friends in Italy peeved him, as he leader at Ourches and Chatillon. Ambitious to learn
told us on several occasions. motors, at which he made good. Enjoyed smoking and
reading matter, especially mail. A member of the
HARRY M. WTTTEBORN Brooklyn Club. Famous lor his well developed muscles.
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
August 21, 1917. Age, 24 years. SAM RECCH1A
This man gained distinction on our ship across the Entered the Army at Cam]) L'pton, New York, Sep-
sea as boxing match referee, and when the "battle tember 1(1, 1017. Age, 22 years.
royal" among the colored gentlemen was pulled off
A "Siamese" twin brother to lilucstein, and bad the
his job was a scientific one. As a rock excavator he had same misfortune as Buono, being unable to visit his
experience and undoubtedly could make good m the friends in Italy. Sam was among the fortunate ones,
mining regions as a contractor. His ambitions, how- however, at Ourches, in getting a home, and be readily
ever, were realized when he was assigned to motor grasped the lingo, which later helped him in parleying
work at Amanty, and later at Chatillon. ( lid No. 1
at Chatillon where he had the pleasure of making the
plane was his pride and joy; also, its section chief was acquaintance of several mademoiselles of that city. Xo
a personal friend. Harry will never forget the days doubt Sam gave the French people a good impression
he spent as section chief, grooming Xo. 48 after her of the American soldier.
daily bath in castor oil ; nor will be soon forget his
comfortable shock-absorber bed near the stove. EDWARD Y JAGGLE
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October
HERMAN HEINRICH 3. I'M 7. Age, 22 years.
Entered the Army at Fort McDowell, California, A product of Chicago, the home of our one constant
November 14, 1917. Age, 23 years. companion "Willie" (alias "corned willie"). This sta-
A first-class tailor was Herman. The only return tionary chauffeur was once a pick and shovel artist, but
for his labors which he required was plenty of cash. claimed to know more about motors than the mere
Delighted in making the boys wait a week for their crude implements (if torture. He was given a chance
Webster Segar Crane Da hie
Monct/r Siehr Wolff Lent
88 W>e 639TH AERO SQUADRON
to prove his abilities by being given the position of \\ hen the good Lord put thisspecimen on this broad
stationary chauffeur on a Sop. This high position was earth he forgot something. Ambition was the forgot-
attained by close application and hard work. Never- ten ingredient, and for that reason this Iow-an has
theless, everyone has his failings, and among Edward's been struggling through life, particularly the Army,
was that of rising at first call. To he sure, he pos- endeavoring to dodge work wherever possible, and
sessed a shock-absorber and that accounted for many meeting with considerable success. Nevertheless, he is
c\ iK along this line. blessed with a good nature which covers a multitude of
sins, and was never known to get mad (even on the
CHELLIS W. STOCKWELL night when he claimed his mattress of tin cans). Of
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, Xew York,
lady correspondents he could boast many, and among
August 18, 1^17. Age, 30 years.
his letters found many of more than usual
were to be
Too sedate to merit a decollette monniker. A good interest in fact, he was never backward in flashing a
;

fellow. A demon for punishment in the form of work,

particularly good one for the boys' approval.
hut assimilated it well. Early accepted his nomination
to the ranks of N. C. O.'s. Saw a motor for the first
VIGGO DAHLE
S.
time at Chatillon, and left there having learned many Entered the Army at Camp Dodge, Iowa, September
of the faults of "Frog" motors. Elected to the hoard
19, 1917. Age, 22 years.
of editors of the Squadron Book, rendering yeoman
As a minister's son this man fooled us by being an
service in tin- capacity. Failed to weaken in favor of
exceptionally quiet and moral young man. He liked
France's charms, waiting only for the restoration of
to sing, but found it difficult to get anyone to harmonize
his own individuality in "God's Country." Was at
with him. He had some ability as a writer, confining
Amherst College for several years learning about hugs
himself mostly to writing poetry. Arrived in France
and every known species of insect. Also occupied some
with the 376th Aero Squadron, was transferred to the
of his time at Marsas gathering "rare" specimens with
639th Squadron in August, 1918, and contributed to the
the village curate.
Squadron's success 1,\ Ins careful and steady work. At
RAY WEBSTER Chatillon lie slept near the bulletin board, where it was
Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, possible for him to lie upon his bunk and watch for the
December 8, 1917. Age, 25 years. new guard and K. 1'. lists. We predict for him a great
This man found recreation with the cards, being career as a poet.
present at frequent games where he had more or less
luck. As a mechanic "Dan" was "there", in proof of JAMES E. MONCUR
which it can he said that he spent no less than three Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, Xew York,
weeks in pounding out a ring from a five-franc piece. November Age, 20 years.
10, 1917.

One day while escorting a plane in from the field, he A representative of "Limy Land." but too good
was thrown from the wing, hut soon pulled himself natured to take offense at any remark passed regarding
up out of the mud none the worse for his experience. the matter. One of his favorite pastimes was that of

Upon the foot of his bunk in the barracks at Chatillon, pestering his friend George, who declared that if the

some kind individual left a blouse containing "beau- "limey" didn't leave him alone he (Moncur) would
coup" francs one evening, hut it remained safely there knock him for a row of "battleships". Whenever seen
until the following day when the owner arrived in upon the street of Chatillon, he was always alone, unless
search of it.
accompanied by a mademoiselle, of whom he knew many
JOHN SEGAR about town. A kodak he also usually had along to snap
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Octo- all things of interest.

ber 30, 1917. Age, 31 years.

A cigarmaker in civil life, and was fond of tobacco
HERMAN' II. STEHR
Entered the Army at Camp Grant, Illinois, October
in any form during his time with the colors. He was
2, 1917. Age, 21 years.
even known to borrow francs to satisfy this desire. As
"Herman, the sausage maker," hailed from the Middle
a worker, John recognized no superiors. From his first
day in the Army, this soldier always pitched into it
West and challenged all comers who had anything to
without ever having to be told. Xever did he receive say against Wisconsin. He was always well to the front
a
of the mess line, in order that he might ring in for
call down down on the job. He was known
for laying
to many "Godfather" because of his kindness on
as
seconds. One of "Red's" greatest pleasures was that
of sitting on the end of his upstairs hunk, allowing his
numerous occasions. At Chatillon he took great pleas-
use in working on the planes. He enjoyed his smoke muddv shoes to protrude out into the aisle that they
might be cleaned upon the clothes of the unsuspecting
along with a game of penny-ante.
passersby. At Ourches, bis bunk beside the canteen was
JOSEPH M. CRANE very handy to the supply of chocolate and canned
Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, goods. One night he barely escaped a shower hath
November 24, 1"17. Age, 19 vears. from the hunk above. Those were the happy days.
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 89

ADOLPH A. WOLFF tell about his experiences while on duty in the "cootie"
Entered the Army at Newark, New Jersey, April 18, mill at Genicart.
191& Age, 23 years.
Rough in name but very gentle in manners. Insisted JOSEPH H. HICK
that before entering our midst he was "Top Kick" in Entered the Army at Saint Cloud, Minnesota, April
another outfit. Always managed to keep clean, no 8, 1918. Age, 24 years.
matter how dirty the work he was given to do. Not a Formerly a member of the 376th Aero Squadron. Joe
lover of mechanical work, but preferred the Supply was transferred into our Squadron in August, 1918.

game, as it offered him a chance to pass out bullet

Received his first mechanical training in the first Gov-
punctured uniforms for dirty and torn clothes. He also ernment Training School at the University of Pitts-
burg. Always the same, morning, noon and night, with
enjoyed passing out number eleven stockings to men
a ready smile and a cheerful answer. Liked by all but
desiring number nines. As a society man he mingled
his enemies and we don't think he had any. Had an
with the select; in fact, the wealthy jeweler at Chatil-
lon opened his home to him. As a singer, Adolph held
exceptional life in France, saving his pleasures for his

some distinction, favoring us on many occasions with

return to civil life. Had all the virtues and very few

melodies familiar in years gone by.

of the vices to which we are prone. Was an expert
picture salesman.

EDWARD P. LENT EARL SLABOM

Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Octo-
Army
Entered the at Fort Slocum, New York,
ber 12, 1917. Age, 22 years.
November 7, 1917. Age, 18 years.
Edward, who hailed from Virginia, was a strong "Legs," as this New Yorker was generally termed,
admirer of tobacco. No doubt back in Virginia he
was born with humor and a grin, both of which he
helped himself to the weed in the tobacco fields and
retained, to the amusement of the boys. His wit was
acquired the habit at an early age. It was his hobby,
original and good, which, when accompanied by his
while with the Squadron in France, to get up about grin, brought us back to the vaudeville such as the
3 :00 m. and extract a Piedmont from his pill box,
a.
U. alone can produce.
S. While at Chatillon he was
take a few inhalations, and then return to slumberland.
assigned to Hangar No. 13, being located near Buncy.
He was neat in appearance and did his work well upon Somewhere around eleven o'clock this young man would
the field. He had the misfortune of missing a returning
start from the field in order to get up an appetite for
truck from Troves while there on a week-end trip,
dinner. He certainly is to be credited with beaucoup
and was obliged to spend the night in a French bed in
bunk fatigue. Likes to play baseball. Tallest man in
that city.
the Squadron.
ALEXANDER R. WALSH
Entered the Army at White Bear Lake, Minnesota, ALYIN J. ROESCH
April 13. 1918. Age, 26 years. Entered the Army at Ada, Minnesota, April 8, 1918.
His most characteristic position : reading letters from Age, 24 years.
his wife or writing to her. Known as "Judge" to some Aformer member of the 376th. Joined us at Cha-
of his friends. Joined the Squadron in August, 1918, tillon. Here he worked on the field and was a pretty
and labored for many months in the Radio Depart- good man on motors. Sops and Liberties were his
ment then later in the Personnel
; Office at Genicart. specialty. He went on leave once and returned with
Swore that he would re-enlist and soldier for the rest stories enough to fill a book. Regretted the fact that
of his life. His greatest ambition while in the A. E. F. he overlooked the Officers' Training Camp. When the
was to seehis wife. His sobriety and perseverence next war comes Alvin intends, with his experience, to
gained a promotion. Took a great liking to good meals wear beaucoup bars.
and a good place to rest. Because of his distinguished
appearance as he sat behind his desk, he drew many CARL McCOLPIN
salutes from students asking for information. Entered the Army
at Fort McDowell, California,

December 9, 1917. Age, 22 years.

CHARLES HOLDERMAN "Mac" was such a quiet unassuming chap that one
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, found it hard to get his history. Found great enjoyment
December 7, 1917. Age, 29 years. in reading and smoking his very old pipe. Worked
Charlie was a plugger. Made good upon the field. like aTrojan and w as a good team-mate for any man.
:

Those who knew of his ability knew he would make Hailed from Los Angeles and was won to the country
good. Never known to talk, criticize, or snore. Agree- west of the Rockies. Couldn't see where France ever
able and ready to assist in the repairing of motors. His earned the title of "Sunny" France. "Mac" was ambi-
specialty was motor repair work, at which he was a tious to learnall he could about the Liberty motor, as

"corker". Enjoyed his long sojourn on the field as he he intended to operate a garage with his brother on
was working around the Liberty motor. Had much to his return to the States.
Walsh Holder-man Hick: S\abom Roesch M c Colpin
Dube Adair Berdan Giifoi)

-
. ' •

Ladenson Greim Zebian D.R.Jone5 Davis

Learning Warner stickler Stone
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 91

CHARLES S. DUBE Emanuel had the misfortune of injuring his hand when
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, in manufacturing game at Chatillon. He
the souvenir
December 7, 1417. Age, 29 years. worked on the field at Chatillon and later as orderly,
The man of all trades. If it wasn't repairing har- which position he preferred as it gave him experience
racks roofs, was fixing the supply room or sharpen-
it and francs as a "second-hand clothing broker" He
ing saws, after which he would repair our shoes for possessed a line of humor, was quick witted and always
five francs. Busily occupied at all times. He enlisted ready to entertain,
as a chauffeur. Out-spokenness had its reward, but
Dube had his opinions. Up at 4:30 every morning. PAUL K. GREIM
Insisted that everyone else arise so as to he in time for Entered the Army at Camp Meade, Maryland, Sep-
reveille. No more Army for Charlie; going to be tember 21, 1917. Age, 28 years.
married, so as to evade the next war. This gentleman, more popularly known among his
comrades as "Dizzy", was a typical Pennsylvania
JOHN W. ADAIR Dutchman. He delighted in amusing his friends with
Entered the Army at Elk River, Minnesota, April 8, correct impersonations of that famous bird, the owl.
1918. Age, 25 years. No living man can give a better idea of how that bird
Adair came from an agricultural country and was can "bout". "Dizzy" also proved industrious and gained
as slow as the slowest of them. At Chatillon, for a distinction throughout the Squadron as a shoe shinest,
while, he held the position of Squadron barber. A earning for himself beaucoup francs as well as ever-
consistent patron of the"down town" lunch-outs. Never lasting fame. One of bis best companions was a plug
enjoyed hard work. Always fought for a place at the of chewing tobacco, and it was always a mystery how
head of the chow line; also favored the camera. Union he could bite off the desired amount as be lacked many
Labor man at all times. At Genicart be found a "reel" teeth. At one time he held the exalted position of
continuous vaudeville show at his place of work the — corporal, but owing to his transfer into the Air Service
mill.
he lost it.

FRANK BERDAN GEORGE .1. ZEBIAN

Entered the Army at Granite Falls, Minnesota, April Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,
9, 1918. Age, 29 years. November 14, 1917. Age, 18 years.
Frank was a hard worker at all times. On the field Fear of the pick and shovel was unknown to this
his time was spent studying airplane motors, at which young Pennsylvanian, because he alone knew the scien-
occupation he accomplished much. His favorite pas- tific method of leaning upon the pick handle. Being
time was washing clothes. Always a neat and ready built for speed, it required no effort on bis part to
soldier. Would not argue. Rarely talked. Believed make frequent trips to the various show places about
that if be retired at nine o'clock everyone else ought Chatillon on any pleasant evening.. George possessed
to do likewise. A
from guard to
volunteer,
P. K an unquenchable thirst for reading material, and no
There were very few men like Frank. Orated on the magazines were safe about the barracks unless nailed.
smoke and joys of Pittsburg where he attended the Neither was it safe to disturb him too early in the
motor mechanics school. morning as be belonged to the unbelievers in early
rising. He was also popularly known as "Algerian".
JOHN T. GILFOY
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, DEWEY R. JONES
December 9, 1917. Age, 24 years. Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,
The man who has been all over the world. His November 9, 1917. Age, 17 years.
home was anywhere he hung his hat, but before the He was one of a large group that was transferred
war he showed a particular fondness for the South into the Squadron shortly before our departure from
End, Boston. Short in stature hut long in sight. He Kelly Field, and can tell his friends back home how he
always had a story that would go you one better. Hav- swung a pick on the Western Front; also of his expe-
ing been with the Sturtevant Airplane Company pre- riences on the Police and Maintenance details at Cha-
vious to his enlistment he had the jump on many of us tillon.This elongated being never won any medals for
when it came to field work. Best memory of any man rapidity, butenjoyed sleeping and did a great deal of
in the Squadron, but it didn't always help him to recall bunk fatigue while with the colors. Possessed a glib
parlor stories. tongue which frequently kept him out of trouble.

EMANUEL J. LADENSON FRED L. DAVIS

Filtered the Army at Philadelphia, Penn., March Hi, Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
1918. Age, 21 years. ber 15, 1917. Age, 25 years.
Here is represented Ladenson of the "Hogan and "Parson" why so prayerful this evening? The ship
Ladenson, Algerian Acrobats," who entertained the won't sink. Albeit, the "Parson" continued to read
Squadron on its journey from Chatillon to Marsas. diligently from the little book which he held within
92 639TH AERO SQUADRON
his hand. Later, as we knew this man heter, we mar- " \ rolling stone gathers no moss." Attleboro Stone
velled not at his sudden hursts of religion. But let us did not propel himself about with any great amount
speak of his love for the Army. He often told us that of -peed, and for that reason acquired some moss in
the Army wasn't half had hut it was the people in it. the form of a mustache and side beards, both detract-
His good nature was very easily ruffled, particularly- ing from bis personal beauty and causing bis near
just before retiring or immediately after rising in the neighbors many a sleepless night. Dan always received

morning. When "I 'arson" put on his Sunday best and an abundance of reading material from home. This he
started out everyone knew that he had something special used as a foundation for his mattress. Supplied the
on for that evening. As a worker he was an expert boys at the hangars with the latest copies of the

electrician and did well at that vocation. He demon- "Country Gentleman." At home Dan drank fresh milk,

strated his ability in the art of osculation in a capable in France evaporated milk.

manner "Y" on one occasion; an American

in the
blonde of twenty-nine summers was "the lady in the EDWIN E. CONNOR
case." Entered the Army at Fort Logan, Colorado, Novem-
WILLIAM (,. LEAMING ber 15, 1917. Age, 18 years.
Entered the Army at Camp Meade, Maryland. The other partner in the firm of Connor and Fugle-
November 3, 1917 Age, 30 years. burg is here represented; although not of Jewish,

"It's a boy!" While Bill was doing his bit against descent he had the capacity of making money during
the Germans the stork paid a visit to Bill's home and his spare moments. He was always busy manufactur-
left there a bouncing baby boy. While at Ourches he ing souvenirs to be sold. Notwithstanding his aptitude
exercised daily with the pick and was among the first for work, Eddie also enjoyed short periods of pleasure.
to receive Private first class chevrons, being made a He would even travel as far as fourteen kilometers into
corporal on the same day of the following year. At the country and procure a chicken or rabbit dinner on

Chatillon he worked hard around the planes and no a rainy Sunday. After one such trip he returned to

doubt will tell, in his modest way, of the aviating he did the barracks in such an exhausted condition that it was
when in France. necessary to put him between his blankets. Eddie's
favorite ship was old No. 24. He came into prominence
LEROY F. WAGNER at Ourches as Life Guard.

Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio,

November Id, 1916. Age, 1°- years. CLARENCE M. LAKIN '

Wagner was among the unfortunate ones on our Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,
voyage to France, for upon arrival at Brest be was November d, 1917. Age, 21 years.
obliged to spend a short time in the hospital at that Cousins we all have, hut it is doubtful if any among
city. At Ourches he worked under the direction of us can boast of more than Clarence. He was seldom
"Hash" Hogan as a cook, and later in the same capacity known to mention an acquaintance back home without
at Chatillon. He also worked in the Radio Department, referring to that person as being a cousin, bis relative
where he rendered good services. A real movie fan in Florida being most frequently remarked about.
and fond of good times, but always moderate. It would he interesting to know what he had to tell
his cousins at home about his cousins in Pagny-sur-
CHESTER M. STICKLER Meuse. Oneargument he would never yield to
fireside
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, was the fact that sausage with sage was preferable to
November 22, 1917. Age, 25 years. that without. As a mechanic he alone knew the secret
We now introduce one of our bank experts. Hailing of starting old No. 24 during her last days upon the
as he does from Pennsylvania, you may know that he field.
was a good talker, in addition to his training along the
hanking lines. In France he threw a pretty good line
Kl'SSELL A. HOLLEY
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
to some of the mademoiselles, especially so when he
July 2S, 1917. Age, 22 years.
and "Smuck" took a little trip to St. Malo. Chester also
had a tooth fur good things to eat. It was a common Lengthy and awkward, always at home, he it among
sight, at one time, to see him coming out of town with the wilds of Montana or at some Broadway festival.
a yard of bread under one arm and a slab of cheese
Kelly Field seldom saw him except at Headquarters or

under the other. He was also known to pay as much during the early hours of the morning as he arrived
from the city. In France, Russell acquired consid-
as deux francs each week for pork chops. One of his
principal occupations was letter writing, until the Armi- erable fame as a canteen worker and photograph dis-
tributer, being very successful at both vocations. In
stice was signed, and then post cards filled the bill.
taking charge of details he was also successful. His
DANIEL E. STOXE greatest piece of work was the hangar excavation in
Entered the Army at Camp Devens, Massachusetts, solid rock at Ourches, never to lieforgotten by cer-

November 16, 1917. Age, 29 years. tain members of the Squadron. His aspiration to be-
94 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
come a high-flyer was never realized as the Kaiser sufficient to wan ant the wearing of a wound
wounds
quit too soon. chevron. "Shorty" has no sympathy for the pessimist,
claiming that to he cheerful in the Army you've got to
THOMAS A. SUTTON
be an optimist.
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,
November 7, 1917. Age, 22 years. JOHN WEINZIERL
J.
Kentucky kept us informed that she was still a part
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
of the I'nited States by sending "Corn-cracker" along
August 21, 1917. Age, 21 years.
with us. He was able to give us much valuable advice Tins man came from the far-famed city oi Bayonne,
regarding farming Kentucky region, and also a
in the
whose beauties he was never backward in relating. At
few points on the "moonshine" business. At one time Kelly Field his friend "Nick" enjoyed singing him that
he was a member of the "can-openers" union, but
old familiar song entitled, "I Wonder How the Old
graduated after a short course in the kitchen. When Folks Are at Home?" In France "Johnnie" was always
excited, with raised voice, it became necessary for us
happy but forever wishing himself back home, and on
to stop our ears because of the shrillness of his tones. that score he was not alone. At Ourches it was a
Long live the "Corn-cracker."
common sight to see the men duck his details because
WILLIS C. BLOUCH he liked to see them work. As a mechanic he learned

Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, a few things about airplanes. His position as crew-
November 1917. Age, 18 years. chief entitled him to ride in the "rear", a pastime
15,
which enabled "Johnnie" to command "attention" back
Music bath its charms, but we can truthfully say
home.
that few of us were ever charmed by the bugle notes
which this musician forced upon us. At Ourches his SAMUEL BLUESTE1X
daily calls were sure to command attention and re-
Entered the Army at Camp Upton, Yew York, Octo-
ber 12, 1917. Age, 21 years.
marks of not altogether flattering nature. Outside of
bis attempts to "toot the horn" Blough was a mighty Although a native of Brooklyn, since his entrance
good fellow and enjoyed one streak of good luck while into the Squadron he was always considered one of the
in France —
that of meeting his brother on several oc-
"Siamese Twins". He demonstrated his dexterity at
casions at Chatillon-sur-Seinc, a pleasure such as few
Ourches as a "pick artist" and was among the first to
of the rest of us enjoyed while away from home. receive the "High Private" chevrons. He also had the
distinction of being the first to visit Paris, where he
HENRY B. McBRIDE donned a wound chevron in sitting for a photograph.
Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, At Chatillon-sur-Seine when assigned to K. P. one day-
November 21, 1917. Age, 28 years. he was the victim of a conspiracy. It was decided that
Our first remembrance of "Mac" was at Kelly Field, the last man to arrive at the kitchen was to wash the

adorned with a white felt hat which he cast aside for pans. Sam rose early on that morning but one of the
a real campaign bonnet. Again, we saw him at Ourches other members of the K. P. crew hid one of "Sammy's"
decked with a steel helmet because of the dangerous shoes and consequently Sammy had to wash the pans.
nature of his work within the dugout. About this
time "Mac" and Rosic had an exciting trip to Vau- JOSEPH E. PETERS
couleurs, concerning which they had a great deal to say Entered the Army at Camp Meade, Maryland, Sep-
that evening. As a mechanic this gentleman became tember 22, 1917. Age, 30 years.
efficient and learned not to attempt stopping propellers "Shorty" was so full of fun that to be alone for an
while in action. "Mac" well remembers the eve of his hour would hurt his feelings. Always welcomed by the
departure from Chatillon. boys, as he managed to keep them in good humor. He
was among the last to retire and the first to arise, often
FREDERICK J. GORDON getting up and starting a fire on cold mornings, long
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, before reveille. The work at Ourches did not appeal
August 18, 1917. Age, 29 years. to Joe, though lus efforts were rewarded by a "High
"Shorty" was with the Squadron since its forma- Private" chevron. Chatillon found "Pete" on the field,
tion. Hard-boiled; telling what's what and why; always and how that boy did pray for a ship to be without
kicking. At Ourches his pastime was that of carrying its motor. Enjoyed reading the Philadelphia news-
around and pencil, checking up all absentees.
a paper papers and writing letters. Made friends with the
If he liked you, you were sitting pretty, for few of the "Boche" at Camp No. 38 and managed to obtain some
boys had the nerve to run into "Tut's" tongue. Made good souvenirs.
heaucoup francs at Chatillon out of pictures. Took
great pleasure in sports. Hard luck was his hoodoo, for THOMAS D. CORCORAN
it got him on board the boat, twice at Ourches, and in Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri,
a baseball game At Ourches, his midnight
at Chatillon. November 27, Age, 24 years.
1917.
experience with Pvt. Canaday caused him to receive A former 376th man. The proud wearer of one gold
 We 639TH AER O SQUADRON 95

stripe. Built like an ox, and looked it. Was quite a DOUGLAS JOHNSTON
lady killer hack home, so he said. "Cork" was easy Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
going and would rather he hossed than tell the other April 7, 1917. Age. IS Near.
fellow what to do. He was a private, but didn't care This gentleman had experience in airplane work
if he could only get home to his and the
flivver girl. with an American Aero Squadron which received its

Worked rather than idle his time away on the field. training in Canada. Was transferred into the Squad-
Preferred a Liberty to any other plane because it was ron at Garden City, New York, shortly before our
easier to keep clean. departure. He was one of the first members of the
Squadron go on leave, which was a "French" leave
to
at Ourches, Did a great deal in the construction of the
ELMER R. REEDER narrow gauge railroad at Ourches after his evening
Entered the Army at Columbus Barracks, Ohio, Octo- chow Winked as a chauffeur at Chatillon and per-
ber 2S, 1917. Age, 28 years. formed his duty well. Was always willing to argue
with anyone on any subject at any time.
Among the last to arrive at Ourches on March 2nd
was this gentleman. When we stopped at Vaucouleurs,
Reeder decided that the rations provided by the Q. M.
I-.DW IX FRANCIS
for the trip did not include all that his taste desired; Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri,

so he detrained at that town, purchased refreshments,

November 19, 1917. Age. 2(1 years.

lost the train, and was obliged to hike it the rest of

An honest and sincere young man. Evidently received

the way. At Chatillon he worked in the Transportation

a strong moral training, which we are glad to record

as chauffeur and had the misfortune of being overcome

he had the nerve to hold on At Ourches he workedto.

with the boys and for them, along with "Parson" Fred
by the heat on one occasion, necessitating his having to
Davis. \ er\ little manual labor did this future "Evan-
stay all night at a nearby town, lie was considered too
altruistic when in charge of the hath house, rendering
gelist" accomplish. At Chatillon he proved to the
good service to everyone hut himself. He was adven- Squadron that he had wisdom galore; this, by offering
his services to the "Y" Secretary, Mr. Webster. Great
turous and can tell the Michigan farmers many inter-
indeed was his pleasure when Miss Mann arrived on
esting tales.
the scene. Francis then had a real chum also plenty ;

of hot chocolate and cakes.

HARRY CUNNINGHAM
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, RICHARD II PATTERSON
November 9, 1917. Age, 22 years. Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
\ non-chauffing chauffeur who hung out at the Radio August 19, 1917. Age, 22 years.
while the rest of the boys were working. During the "Dick" hailed from the Green Mountain State, which
summer when there were plenty of flying hours, you fact accounted for the ease with which he took up
could hear Harry swearing away in the observer's Army life. His stay in Texas took from him a great
cockpit. He was forever wondering why it was that many pounds of superfluous flesh, while at Ourches it
he and a couple of the other fellows had to do all the was the motorcycle for his. On arriving at Chatillon,
work on that "blooming field." Glad to be a non-com as having knowledge of telegraphy, he was assigned to
it kept him from guard and K. F. Smoked "Bull" so the Radio Department, remaining there until our depar-
that his purse might grow. An ideal man for K. P. ture. Did a great deal of work in keeping the wire-
Mated Ourches because he had to work there like less in first class condition. Here, the boy was worked
H . With all his faults, the Squadron could stand very hard hut was able to stand the pace, and this did
main' more like him. much to hold the Squadron in an enviable position.

JOHN GNEHM
GEORGE B. GLENDENNING Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York,
Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York, August 21, 1917. Age, 31 years.
August 17, 1917. Age, 27 years. came to the Squadron at Chatillon
"Faithful" John
A very quiet young man who had seen a great deal as a mess sergeant. Hard as he tried to satisfy the
of the world. Hard worker. Fair in his dealings hoys it was no go. Sickness took him from the kitchen.
toward the men. The recipient of numerous boxes. probably caused by his fondness for raw prunes, and
Had an opportunity to visit the British Front and made later we saw him on the Squadron detail doing his

the most of it. The possessor of numerous souvenirs. work each day in a faithful manner. This work proved
Studied advanced English so as to be able to orate too slow for John and he finally wound up as a clerk
upon his doings. A crew' chief on the field, who wil- in the Engineering Department. At Genicart he labored
lingly allowed his men to rest while waiting for a new- in the "mill" and continually brought fresh rumors,
motor. thereby boosting the hoys' spirits.
96 1&e 639TH AERO SQUADRON
VIRGIL J. McELUERRY EZRA KNIGHT
Entered the Army at Fort McDowell, California, Entered the Army at Fort Thomas, Kentucky,
April 9, 1917. Age, 19 years. November 7, Age, 26 years.
1917.

Another Californian whose only desire was to get We can thank this gentleman for keeping our faces
hack to the land of sunshine and honey. Of an easy- clean at Ourches and Marsas, where he managed the
going disposition, "Mac" fitted in anywhere in the Squadron tonsorial parlor. Quite often would he tell,
Squadron life to the enjoyment of his friends. Was in the presence of officers and enlisted men, how gen-

one of the oldest soldiers the in point of service in erouslv some one had tipped him, which was a diplo-
outfit. Did whatever he was told. Work on the field matic way to inform those who were next that he
made him happy as he had ambitions to become a good never took offenseif offered a tip. The scheme worked
motor man. Fond of reading, smoking, and other well. During what was thought to be an air raid at
Armv pastimes. Had travelled to many parts of the Ourches he emerged with gas mask and helmet. Should
globe. be given a Croix de Guerre as a story teller.

PRESENT MEMBERS WHO DO NOT APPEAR

ON PHOTOGRAPHS
RAY SCHENCK This gentleman had at one time ambitions to be a
Entered the Army at Fort Thomas Kentucky, pilot, to see how it felt to travel where there were no
November 13, 1917. Age, _'_' years. "traffic coppers," but unavoidable circumstances pre-

Ray was well liked by every fellow in the Squadron. vented him from being one and he remained on the
At different times be held positions from "Top" down ground. With his cute little moustache and the del iray
to private in charge of details. Was blessed with a part of his name, he could easily have passed in France
personality that enabled him to mix with them all. as one of the nobility. He worked well in Chatillon,
Afraid of no one, yet considerate of all. A cracker- which was the first flying field he was on while in the
jack at drilling. Insisted that his platoon was the best A. E. F. Everett always favored the conservation of
drilled in Always neat and happy. Had
the outfit. energy theory, and his one ambition was to return to
feet that simply would not keep still forever doing — civil life and freedom.

the clog dances. Claimed to have seen enough of the

world and uniforms, as he had served a turn in the
Navy as well as in the Army. Was noted for his bow-
CHESTER REID
legs. Had a "conference" with the medical Major at Entered the Army at Camp Upton, New York, Sep-
Ourches. tember 23, 1917. Age, 26 years.
SAMUEL .1. RHODES While in the National Army this man proudly donned
Entered the Army at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri,
the insignia worn by a corporal, but it was ruled by
November 8, 1917. Age, 2? years.
the "powers that be" that men transferred to other or-
When we think ofRhodes we think of "Contact" ganizations at that time would lose their rating and
and his cheer leading on the evening previous to our He
this gentleman became one of the unfortunates.
departure from Chatillon. He was editor of "Con- liked to talk a great deal, but said little. Was the
tact" and deserves credit for the interest created. He "other man" with Lent when they missed the truck-
was a convincing speaker and took pleasure in address- carrying soldiers on leave at Troves back to Chatillon.
ing audiences. Hard to convince him that he was in He related many times wdiile in the Army of his expe-
error. Liked the girls, and many of the French made-
riences as an engineer.
moiselles fell for Sam. Also took pleasure in playing
poker. His knowledge of French was especially ad-
vantageous to him when on business trips and on W II. LI AM J. LANE
leave. Although a lover of boxing he never partici- Entered the Army at Fort Slocum, New York. Age,
pated in the sport, always taking a spectator's seat. 32 years.

EVERETT deGRAY READ Spent most of his time in the Supply Department.
Entered the Army at Camp Upton, New York, Made several "business" trips to Paris. Not at all

December 24, 1917. Age, 22 years. satisfied with the world as it is.
 639TH AERO
SQUADRON 97

MEN WHO WERE TRANSFERRED FROM THE SQUADRON

WHILE IN FRANCE
JAMES P. ATWELL at Ourches and Chatillon was commendable. Occa-
"Buck" stayed with the Squadron after its formation sionally he has written the boys and always was anxious
until honorably discharged in December of 1918. As to hear of our doings.
an originator of new expressions be was a king-pin:
"sunboint", "Nigger", "youse boids", and "play me dirty"
AUGUST SCHLOSSER
Adopted by us on the eve of our departure for
being the most common. It was always the Sergeant's
Garden City. Until our farewell from the States he
delight to lead. Ourches found him in charge of the
was known as one of the "Gold Dust Twins". The
Powder Monkeys and Cave Diggers. At Chatillon he
"Wanderers" claimed August as one of them and
was, for a time, Top Kick, in charge of "Van" and
thereafter he participated in all their picnics.
"Butt", and later was "Chauffeur of the Bath."

WILLIAM C. BRANDT HAROLD SHIELDS

"Big Boy" entered the Squadron from the lines at
"Bill" hailed from somewhere on the Jersey Coast. A
member
Kelly Field. A native of Maine, who delighted in
of the original outfit, this soldier stuck with
working hard. Harold never had the desire to be
us until the Armistice was signed and then he was off
bossed about. The first man to sit on a disc harrow at
to see Germany. As a laborer this soldier had few
Ourches. Worked on a ship crew at Chatillon. His
superiors, as Bill generally had outlined his plan of
ship was forced to land at Courban, where "Big Boy"
procedure the evening before. Bill died at Lemans
was bit by the prop. This accident took him away from
when awaiting his turn to go home.
us and bis loss was felt b\ all.

NELSON B. CHILDERS THEODORE P. SMITH

A native Oklahoma, who on pay day split his
of
"Teddy" first saw the light of day somewhere in
wages with the tailor. Nelson was always one of the As an
Pennsylvania. original member of this outfit
neatest soldier in the outfit. His "old issue" was for-
Theodore desired to fly. Kelly Field was a dead hole
ever creased, and many requested of Nelson to be
for "Ted", though he did duck fatigue by playing foot-
allowed to wear his "best" whenever there was a big
ball. As the war was drawing to a close this ambitious
time on. A member of our touring part) to see
youth was sent off to flying school, where he earned his
Germany. pilot's wings and a commission.
WILLIAM J. DORNEY
Bill entered our midst at Chatillon, where he worked
ROBERT J. STEEN
"Bob" applied his intellect and wit in trying to beat
on the field and in the Engineering Supply House. Here
the officers, although on certain occasions he worked
he became affected with ear trouble and had to leave
very hard. He hob-nobbed with the Medics, through
the Squadron. It was with regret that he saw him
whose influence he was marked "Quarters and "Light
depart, as his agreeableness was appreciated by all.
Duty." Resigned from the Squadron to visit Germain-.
ROLAND PALEY LOUIS P. STEPHENSON
One of the thirty men who came to the outfit in
"Louie" saw action with the Squadron from Kelly
August. Our strongest remembrances of him are those Field to Chatillon, at which place be was injured and
of a born Englishman who certainly did much to offset
sent home. As
"cave digger" this boy was a bear.
a
the prejudiced feelings some of us had for England. Large were the rocks which bis wheelbarrow hauled
A quiet and willing worker, always accomplishing his from the dugout to the road. Being crew chief on an
"bit". He was fortunate in obtaining an honorable
A. R. served to stimulate the "High Private" to greater
discharge soon after the Armistice. It was his letter,
activities. His unfortunate accident was regreted by
written from England, telling of the trials of a soldier
all.
going through the "mill", that informed us what was
EARL C. TEMPLE
awaiting us before we hit the boat.
A man Kelly Field whose habits soon
line at made
TAMES E. ROSENHEIM themselves known to the "Goosey Earl" cer-
outfit.

"Rosie" was one of the boys who was a friend to tainly was a favorite. Ourches saw him driving one
everyone. His services were always of the best. Work- of the best P'ackards in camp. Shortly after our ar-
ing early and late to accomplish all possible, his efforts rival at Chatillon the rheumatism got him so bad that
were rewarded by the C. O. designating him to attend he accepted the offer to go home, somewhere in Iowa.
the Officers' Training Camp. We understand that Jim LEE A. TRAW
made good. An oil fiend from Oklahoma who was forever trying
ARTHUR SCHIELER to josh the troops. This unsophisticated youth took it
The other soldier from Wausau. We lost Arthur into his go and see Germany. Along with some
head to
on account of sickness. This misfortune left Boiler more soldiers from the camp, to took the 8-or-40 to the
alone to uphold the reputation of their burg. His work front.
98 ^?Te639TH AERO SQUADRON
ISSUE DAY
I did my hit of fighting
Standing at the old tent door,
As an office boy and manager
Of my little Army store.

Here I handed out the clothing

And saw men's passions rise,
When they'd come back strong and argue
That I gave them the wrong size.

How strange indeed it seemed to me

W< But
These
I
sizes were not
consoled the multitude
true,

With, "I'll see what I can do."

SUNNY TEXAS
Texas, where the sun shines I took the French shoes promptly
Have you ever been in
bright,
To the Quartermaster Corps,
Where the sand flies high, and the mosquitoes bite? And told them that the gunboats
One day it's hotter than the 4th of July. Were surely made for Noah.
And the next it's so cold that you nearly die.
You go to lied a night, and Oh, my! what a heat. He said that that was all he had,

You'd almost prefer to sleep in the street; But expected other kinds,
But you awaken towards morning and shake like a pup, So we had to be contented
There's snow on the floor, a storm has come up; W ith those hated twenty-nines.

A terrible wind from the northwest is blowing. JOHN P.. BURNS,

Stinging your face, hard feeling bestowing.
Supply Sergeant.
The next day it rains and thaws out the snow,
A batter of mud is formed, a good foot deep or so.

Tlie country all around is cpiite inspiring

With its prickly cactus, that gets no admiring.

Here and there an herb, and in places a shrub;
A waterless creek as deep as a tub;
All through the country no grass to be seen,
found nice and green.
HfRES
Tho patches of thistles are
OME YilO
The sandy land, with its large flat plain TWO SER-
Is enough to give a poor fellow a pain. VICE
It reminds him of the Sahara so great, STRlPgS
Where nothing hut camels can maintain a gait.

Sunny Texas, however fine it may be,

Couldn't have ever been made for me.

DAHLE.
WHAT TO DO
If you think you have the Coo-coos
Do not cry,
Boil your clothes and take a hath.
They will die;

They are cunning little fellows.

So they tell,

And they itch and bite, and scratch me

Just like hell.

Though I've belted 'em and flayed 'em,

Can you tell me just who made 'em?
In my heart I know it wasn't "Gunga Din."
[ndoor Sports After ray Day.
— "A Rude Kipling.'
 639TH AERO SQUADRON 99

Getting Rid <>r Surplus Earth at ' 'inches

LE CHEMIN DE FER d'OURCHES

Some towns of France are on the maps They built it in the morning rain,
And some like Ourches not, Clear up a smooth, steep hill,

But Observation Group, First Corps, And used it in the afternoon

Can't get along like that. Against old Kaiser Bill.

They needed stones to make a park, Altlio' it's only rocks they haul,
And needed other things as bad ;
It's all part of the game,
So they settled on a railroad, For all the war's not in a trench,
Built of all the things they had. And some of it is tame.

'Tis true the track is narrow gauge, All day the cars go up and down
But all "Jerk" lines start small, To keep the hungry crusher fed,
And it's built upon a slope so steep, For making big ones into small ones
That the grade looks mighty tall. Is no so easy as 'tis said.

The Captain was the engineer The soldiers do their work quite well
Who planned out this new- "Jerk" Xe'er thinking of a D. S. < .

And Orange was the M. S. E. And they make the rock piles dwindle-
Who made the soldiers work. As part of their job, you see.

And when this war is a thing of the past,

And the Boche is drowned in his guilt,
We'll all agree that the Chemin de Fer d'Ourches
Was the greatest road ever built.
100 AERO SQUADRON
We 639TH
MY FIRST RIDE IN AN AIRPLANE
As a large number of the men in the Squadron had ning around with a whirling sound that drowned out
heen up in the plains and had told of their experiences, the voices of the mechanics who had been working
itwas my desire, also, to "go up once" and see just on the 'plane. Then the blocks were pulled away and
what the sensations were. we taxied out to the "T," where we waited for the
1 had pestered the life out of the Flight Officer time word "Go" from the officer in charge of the "T."
and time again, until one day he told me to be handy While sitting there waiting for the word, I was
to the office and he would take me up. The next day looking for a place to put my hands and feet, making
u.is one of anxious waiting, for I expected at any sure that they didn't interfere with any of the controls.
moment to be called cm the 'phone. Every time it rang, On which was the signal to go, louder
receiving the flag,

I said to myself, "Here is where 'Bevo' takes a flop." roared the motor andoff we went, bumping and bounc-
1 was a real brave fellow up to the time I was assured ing along, headed for the first hangar at terrific
that I was going to get my ride. Then I began to speed. About two hundred feet from the hangar I

Chatillon and ttit Camp as Bevo Saw Them

recount all the

spills, etc., 1 had personally
crashes, felt the tail rise and I knew we were off. Suddenly
seen, and others
had heard about, and simultaneously
I he nosed her up and we kept climbing and climbing
wondered if anything might possibly happen to me. we were free from all the buildings and hangars
until
Now that my chance to flirt with the clouds had come, and had plenty of space in which to take care of
it had lost something of its novelty. However, the ourselves.
afternoon passed with no call for me to take my ride. Oh! wdiat a feeling. I was all cuddled up in the
The next morning about eight o'clock the Flight seat, but after the 'plane straightened out I got up
Officer walked into the office, so I screwed up courage courage enough to look over the side on the city of
and asked him about my ride. He took me off my feet Chatillon, below. At that moment I felt like a regular
with the reply that he was ready and that I would find aviator and said to myself, "Flying is nothing — it only
a flying suit in the flight office. It was too late for me looks hard," but at that moment we went into a steep
to hack down then and, rather dazed, I made my way bank and I thought it was all off for me. I began to
to the flying field. There I received a flying suit, think ofhome and wondered wdio would take care of
helmet, goggles, and everything that went with the Mary Brodie if we crashed. Presently we straightened
outfit,and was soon ready for the word "go." To be out and, following this little fright, we flew over
frank, was weak about the knees and blue around
1 fifteen minutes without a bank, dive, or loop.
the gills during the few moments I waited for the Now we were far above the clouds, breaking through
Lieutenant. He soon arrived and we both started off. an open place now and then. I will never forget the
He picked out a little dual control "Sop" and told scenery below. Roads looked
crooked strings, like long,
me to climb into the front seat. I didn't question him, winding in and out, hidden in places by the woods only
but did as I was told. The thought that came to me to appear again. The towns and villages appeared to
then was "safety first," and the first thing I did was be huddled together in small clusters, and the whole
to look for the safety belt! After locating it, I buckled earth looked plain, as one cannot tell from the air just
it around me, and by that time the propeller was spin- where the hills are. Interrupting my survey of the
 We 6 3 9TH AERO SQUADRON 101

beautiful scenery, the 'plane suddenly dropped, render- A RECORD FOR SPEED
ing a sensation as though the bottom and myself were OR
falling through. It stood me up straight, my head COAXING A LAME STEAM ROLLER
bumped the top wing, and 1 sat back in my seat again.
In order to complete certain construction work
We were then on our way to the ground, but where at

we were going to land I could not tell. Ourches, it became necessary to have a steam roller.

We were rising and falling, banking and climbing, A machine of this kind was available but it was located
and about everything an old "Sop" can do. My health at Vaucouleurs and must be brought to Ourches over
had been pretty good up to that time, but suddenly the road and under its own power. There was but
my stomach seemed to be up around my neck, and this one man in camp, who, to our knowledge, had any
after forty minutes in the air. I looked down once
previous experience in operating such a clumsy piece
more and observed what seemed to be several small
white tents below. We went into a dive, but I couldn't of machinery, and that was Schultz, an ex-locomotive

tell whether we were going down or sailing along on

engineer. Therefore, he was dispatched with an able
the level, so on for dear life. Presentlj I
I just held
assistant, Ted Smith by name, to navigate the iron

regained consciousness and saw that we were about monster over the nine kilometers of roadwaj sepa-
to laud and that the supposedly small tents were the
rating our cam]) from Vaucouleurs. They managed,
large hangars we had left some time before. We then with some difficulty, to get the required amount of
circled the field and made a perfect landing, taxieing
steam, and after a little more trouble the thing began

back to the hangar from where we started.

to move upon the manipulation of the proper lexers
But then their troubles commenced. One thing after
When the know whether
machine stopped I didn't
another delayed their progress and after three days
to sit was as weak as
there in the 'plane or get out. I
they pulled into the small village of I'gny. Here they
though had just finished a long day's work swinging
1
left the balky brute by the wayside and returned to
the pick at Ourches. However, I gathered what little
camp for more supplies, a distance of not more than
pep was left me and climbed out, thanked the Lieu-
three kilometers. With a fresh stock of fuel and other
tenant,and went staggering down the field like a sailor,
necessities, Schultz, with a new assistant, Harvey Coale,
just backfrom a six months' voyage, returning from a
returned and got under wa\ once more, hoping against
"wonderful" shore leave.
hope that they might arrive at camp before the shades
Now that I bad had my firstride in an airplane, I of evening fell. This pleasure was granted them, for
was satisfied, though I can't understand to this day without further serious trouble they managed to steam
why a pilot wants to turn his 'plane on a cinq centime up the main highway into camp during the afternoon,
piece when he has the whole sky to do it in.
with all colors flying and the whistle blowing to
was the happiest fellow in France to have my two
I announce to all that they bad finally arrived. They
flat feeton the ground once more, never again to pester were received with much laughter, but they argued that
the Flight Officer for a ride. It was "finis" me for they had had a good trip and had traveled slowly
airplanes. R. M. BURNS, "BEVO." enough to enjoy the scenery.
 102 "We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
THE LAST TWO DAYS AT CHATILLON At 6:30 the bunch "fell in" on the road leading
The 89th Squadron's placid departure on January
toward Chatillon, tarrying briefly to receive a final
exhortation from Top-Kick York, who called on the
12th provoked considerable comment on the part of
the members of the 639th. It was beyond our compre-
men to put in all the "pep" they bad. The "Fuselage
Monster," gayly bedecked with various flags, headed
hension how an organization, so long established in
the place, could take its final leave so undemonstratively
the parade, with "Dad" Waddel in the pilot's cock-pit,
and Harvey Coale occupying the observer's seat. The
and so utterly lacking in enthusiasm. On that occasion
"Monster" was drawn by ropes on both sides by a
the 639th resolved that its departure should he a
dozen men The Squadron followed in regular forma-
memorable event, both to the Chatillonais and to the
tion, a few of the 157th falling in with us.
numerous Yanks at the Post.
Tom Yohe, whose "long suit" bad always been
March 7th was destined to figure as the "day of
exploding detonators or lighting signal flares at most
days" for the 639th Squadron. On the morning of
March 6th, each and every man packed his barrack
bag and discarded all excess accumulations. The
quarters presented a somewhat deserted appearance
after everyone bad packed up. Imitations to dinner
in town were numerous, many French people providing
the equivalent to the "fatted calf" for this exceptional
occasion. As some of them explained, they were about
to lose those toward whom they bad acted as "mar-
raines," in accord with that commendable French
custom. A "marrainc" is a maiden, or not, fair or
decidedly otherwise, who selects a soldier, and interests
herself in his welfare. Usually the soldier receives
from his marraine letters, smokes, and when practicable Main Exhibit in the Bis Parade
as is the case in the Armee Francaise, hospitality while
(hi permission. It was their pleasure to take dinner
inopportune times, rendered yeoman service on this

"chez" their marraines at least once a week, a powerful

occasion. With a large haversack loaded with signal
influence to counteract the ennui that rockets and flares, obtained through Tom's own peculiar
comes occasional]}
tn those so far from home. ingenuity, be marched along with the gang, and sent
tqi the Squadron started off toward town,
flares as
In spite of the general visiting on the 6th, the boys
while everyone sang "Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here,"
did not fail to consider plans for a final celebration
as lustily as possible. Occasionally a halt was called
that evening. A
was decided upon. Sam
parade
Rhodes, Ranahan, and Paul Byrne were assiduously and the "sky-rocket" yell was given for the 639th,

engaged composing words to be sung to familiar airs, followed by another for the 157th. As we passed
while another bunch sought Lieutenant Mitchell and
through the main part of Chatillon and everybody was
singing with all bis might, the windows and doorways
obtained bis permission to utilize the fuselage of dis-
mantled Sop. on both sides of the streets became thronged with
21, and the field dolly for the occasion.
curious Frenchmen, who bad not seen nor heard
The fuselage was mounted on the dolly and secured
anything similar to this since the day of the Armistice.
with ropes. Whitworth painted a dragon bead on its

nose and added such inscriptions as: "Nous allons It was with considerable apprehension that we
partir pour l'Amerique toute de suite," "An revoir approached the M. P. at the foot of the lull. But we
Mademoiselles de Chatillon," "Fini Cognac," etc. Ban- were relieved when, in passing" headquarters, a group
ners were made bearing similar wordings. Enthusiasm of M. P.s looked on at the orderly riot with only blank
increased and everyone expressed his intention to amazement. If the M. P.s had any inclination to
participate in the parade. interfere they quickly reconsidered, after one look at

At 6 o'clock, the men assembled in the Mess Hall to the long parade. The farther the parade advanced, the

rehearse the songs and yells which had been adapted greater became the enthusiasm, Yohe's pyrotechnics
to the occasion. The noises from the Mess Shack maintaining pace with the general progress. By this

could have lead one to imagine a student rally, but time the French population was fully aroused and
'twas only 639ers preparing for their grand an revoir cognizant of the fact that 639 was surely celebrating
peerade. Inasmuch as the was its departure.
157th to leave on the
same train, w'e invited them to participate in our By 7:3(1, the procession arrived at the Hotel de
demonstrations, and they accepted. Though the 157th Ville and five minutes later filed into the "Jardin du
was a "live" bunch, they couldn't equal the enthusiasm Mairie" and halted while a large assembly gathered
of the 639ers, and eventually took but a small part in round to take in the "doings." "Dusty" Rhodes, Paul
the lark. Bvrne, Ranahan, and York ascended to the band stand.
 <3fe639TH AERO SQUADRON 103

Paul Byrne and Ranahan duetted, the crowd joining in the third. Each group in turn cheered for itself, the
and repeating the chorus. From "We Hate to Leave "Private" aggregation easily carrying off the distinction
You" we went right through our entire repertoire of having received the loudest acclamation. The three
several times, interspercing the songs with "beaucoup" groups then cheered "ensemble," producing a surprising
sky-rocket and locomotive yells, which were ably led volume of noise.
by "Dusty" Rhodes. These last were surely a revelation An hour of celebration on the field left only a heap
to the French and added to their astonishment. After of smoking embers, the closing incident occurring when
the songs and speeches the march was resumed and Ray Schenck auctioned off the ashes. Whether or not
continued up Rue de la Gare to Rue dc Chaumont, the highest bidder carried off his award is unknown.
thence down by the Hotel de la Poste, where a halt Captain Fritz, who had followed the parade a short
was called. Paul Byrne and Ranahan mounted the distance, unknown to the men, also occupied a very
fuselage and again we exhausted our collection of inconspicuous position on the field for the reason, we
songs and yells to the approval of the crowd of French later learned, that he did not wish his presence to act
and American spectators that had gathered. Yohe as a restraint on the enthusiasm of the men. We were
was on the job with a red and green flare that added glad to know that he had witnessed the celebration,
considerably to the scene. and enjoyed it immensely. It is a safe wager that no
outfit, larger or smaller than ours, ever evidenced such
Interesting indeed were the expressions noticeable
on the faces of the Yanks — officers and men, who were unity and squadron spirit with so unbounded an

among the spectators. It seemed as if every face there enthusiasm. The affair was absolutely original, and
registered envy, or at least deep longing; numerous
will undoubtedly remain the only one such —a testimo-

remarks we overheard confirming our conjectures on nial to the irrepressible spirit and initiative of the

that score. From the Hotel de la Poste, we proceeded 639th Squadron.

along Rue de L'Isle to L'Eglise Saint Nicolas, minus The following excerpt from a letter received by
any appreciable diminution in enthusiasm, though the Lieutenant Snow from M. L. Richebourg, in whose
noise possiblydecreased in volume, inasmuch as the house he was billeted while at Chatillon, gives an idea
hunch by that time became quite hoarse, and the few of what the French thought of our celebration and
157th men who had started with us weakened before indicates also how successful it was:
we were well started. All along the line of march, on "Le lendeniain de votre depart l'aviation a dit un
the going and return trip, tobacco and cigarettes, of grandiose adieu. On a promene par les rues un
the "issue" sometimes known as the "reject
variety,
avion a qu'on avait enleve les ailes et convert

brand," were tossed to the French who chanced to be descriptions; 'Finis Cognac,' etc., etc. Cela a fait

nearest. At the foot of the hill we found further la joie des grands et des petits qui out suivi le

evidence of the perfect co-operation and harmony cortege en applaudissant."

existing in the Squadron, in the truck which we found TRANSLATED

waiting to help the "fuselage monster" up the hill and "The day after your departure the aviation gave
over the last hard stretch of road between town and an imposing farewell. They paraded through the
camp. streets with from which the wings
an aeroplane

On field the bunch lost no time in

our return to the had been removed and which was covered with
piling up the hundred boxes or so that had previously inscriptions: 'Fini < ognac,' etc., etc. It pleased

served as our personal lockers, and it then poured old and young alike who followed the procession
"essence" on the immense heap and touched a match applauding."

to it. In Indian war-dance formation the hunch Reveille roused us the morning after, somewhat
serpentined around the blaze, singing and yelling with fatigued, but content with the thought that the "wished
all the vocal power that remained. The fire illumined for day" had arrived. Breakfast finished, everyone set
the sky for miles around. When Lieutenants Watts to work to complete the final preparations for departure.
and Wood were espied in the crowd, they were given In two hours, barrack bags were assembled in a heap
cheers, followed by cries of "Speech, Speech." These and blanket rolls made up. Every man then hit for
affable "Loots" responded and both were profuse in town for a final visit to his marraine. The baggage
their praise of the work and character of the 639th. detail remained behind and was kept busy loading
They wished us all a speedy and safe return to "God's lia.^s and boxes on the camions, thence into the cars

country," and civil life. after a trip to the station. Cheers hurst from the
At this juncture, Yohe lighted a flare that illumined little groups of 639ers scattered throughout the town

the skv for fully 20 minutes, while the men arranged as the baggage-laden camions drove by, bound for the
themselves groups according to rank. The rankest
in station.

Sergeants 1st class and Buck Sergeants made up the The majority of the fellows had returned to camp
first group, the Corporals and Chauffeurs the second, by 4 o'clock, in conformity to the order of the day.
and the privates of both the "Buck" and "High" variety Slowly indeed did those last three hours in camp pass,
104 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
and the order at was certainly a
7:30 to "Fall in" retrospections. The Supply Sergeant was a medium
welcome one. A were delivered,
few instructions between a gang of rapacious and an exacting
soldiers

"Squads Right" was ordered, and the camp at Chatillon officer, while he could please neither at the same time.

and the 639th severed connections forever. He was like the two-faced Janus who smiled on one
The Squadron started some time in advance of the side, but frowned on the other. The nature of his
157th and displayed the usual "pep" singing on the work was multifarious. He and the Understudy sorted
march through town. Every doorway and window and counted the dirty salvage in order that we would
was thronged with French anxious to get a final not outwit the Q. M. and still keep the "best policy"
glimpse of their friends marching by. Unaccustomed immaculate. was one of the Understudy's jobs to
It

to long marches with full equipment, the singing sub- clean the pistols, while his boss was accountable for
sided somewhat before the station was reached, but them. At one time a pistol was lost, and could not be
was quickly resumed when the cars were reached. replaced, at which "his Nibs" was unreasonably vexed.
The men were then assigned to cars, climbed aboard —
Everything from a two-cent shoe lace, up was the —
and each prepared to make himself as much at home Supply Sergeant accountable for. Several days after
as the "40 Hommes 8 hcvaux" voitures would permit.
< notices had been posted, there would be many men
About 10:30 our cars were connected up, and we who still wanted various articles which we did not
saw the last of "la belle Chatillon," perhaps forever have and could not get. Ladenson bored us for several
for the majority of us. months for a pair of shoes of a size the (J. M did not
have; so we were obliged to take his malignant curses
without a whimper. Phoebus, long after we had
packed our property to turn it in at Marsas, came for
THE UNDERSTUDY'S RETROSPECTION OF a pair of breeches to match his coat. Rhoades never
THE SUPPLY SERGEANT'S JOB had his full equipment at any one time. The day
before we left Chatillon for Marsas, he reported to
The Supply Sergeant's job was generally conceded
the Supply Sergeant that he did not have a shelter half
to be the biggest graft in the Army. The Supply
in which to wrap his blankets. Hicks always glided
Sergeant and the Mess Sergeant were always repre- into the supply room, introducing himself, "Don't get
sented hand in hand, but in most cases this representa- hard with me, will yo'?" Reynolds even threatened to

tion was not correct. The Supply Sergeant seemed to gather a predatory gang to raid the supply room. The
who was a position where Boss and Understudy were interrogated concerning
his
be the friend of anyone in
clothing "tin hut," mess hall, Y. M. C. A.,
in the
there could be reciprocal benevolence. The Supply
barracks, and everywhere but the supply room; so that
Sergeant was severely censured; he did not have to they were shocked into saying a hundred unbiblical
be too careful of his clothing; paper was easily things.

secured; little conveniences were unconsciously usurped. The Understudy was often unable to build a fire to

He must necessarily have considered all who approached suit "his Nibs," and "his Nibs" never hesitated to

performed some express his dissatisfaction in the most diabolical

him as solicitous thieves until they had
sarcasm. And
"his Nibs" was often displeased at the
act of unusual honesty before him. Therefore, he was
way was swept and the dust that lay on the
the floor
unpopular among the men, often the most unpopular boxes. Then, when he was in the hospital at Chatillon,
man in the organization, because so few realized his the new C. O. had another disposition which had to be
position. mitigated. The Understudy was dispatched to buy the

Aero Squadron the Supply Sergeant had temporary C. O.'s morning paper and had to assume
In the 639th
the position of valet as well as assisting the Supply
no doubt —but certainly unintentionally — practiced some
Sergeant.
of the regular Army Supply Sergeants' notorious graft.
However, the Supply Sergeant was successful in
He and the Mess Sergeant were attached with a mutual
becoming quite popular with the Q. M., so we always
end in view. But he accepted only those things which had the pick of clothing in Chatillon. Many of the
were forced upon him, and then honorably considered organizations there had to pass throughmore red tape
them as a kindness toward himself — not the job. When than we did. But the best we could get was always

shown greeted with complaints, and our hearts thus became

he retired from his job, the same respect w'as
hardened. A man would enter the supply room with
him, although he was no longer able to bestow favors.
a broad grin and exit with curses hurled at us and on
Below this superficial layer of velvet, we believe that
the entire Army.
the Supply Sergeant had more tribulations than any So the life of the Supply Sergeant rolled by, as most
man in the outfit. Since we are writing an "in of the men thought, in eternal bliss. The reality,

memoriam," we may pass on to express our truthful however, was not so. STACKHOUSE.
 ; ; ; ;

We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 105

A HAIR-RAISING EXPERIENCE labor, we see young boys and girls from twelve to
eighteen or twenty and old men and women from
Location: Ourches, on a dark, rainy night. The big fifty
to sixty-five. They work from sunrise to sunset, tilling
guns keeping up a constant roar just over the hill.
the ground, trimming grape vines, following plows, and
Chief and O.xly Character: Jay Jay Klema doing
in fact doing any kind of work which we see only the
guard duty at the hangars, and who had removed his
strongest men perform in America.
raincoat and hung it on one of the Hotchkiss Machine
They are a vei \\ sentimental people and are quick to
Guns, there being one such at each hangar.
show any kind of emotion. They are constant users of
EClema (on coming around the corner and seeing the
tobacco in some form and will sacrifice almost anything
form of a man standing before him in the dark) :

for a package of cigarettes.

"HALT! WHO'S THERE?" No answer.
Very little of their time is spent in amusements, but
when they do celebrate they make up for all the lost
time caused by continuous attention to work. One
cannot easily judge the age of these people on account
of their strenuous work and their curious habits of
eating and drinking, which make them look old when
they are really onl\ in the prime of life.

The only meal which the French eat without their

vin rouge or vin blanc, is breakfast, which usually
consists of bread and a cup of black coffee. Owing to
the condition of the wells and other water supply, the
water is not drinkable unless sterilized, which condition
is said to account for their habit of drinking so much
Klema (again): "HALT! WHO'S THERE?" X"
XT ot
wine. too much credit can be given these people
answer. Whereupon
the above-mentioned gentleman
for the way they handle their liquors. They all know
immediately about faced and retraced his steps
their capacity and are very seldom seen in an intox-
around the hangar, coming up on the other side,
icated condition, anil this in a measure accounts for the
he again observed the same figureat the same place.
lack of opposition to the use of alcoholic beverages.
For a moment he hesitated, thinking it might be a
"Boche" about to throw a bomb into the hangar. VARNEY.
Every nerve tense, his Colt Automatic cocked and
ready for action, lie once more, in a loud, command- FAREWELL! FRANCE
ing voice, shouted, "HALT! WHO'S THERE?"
Xo answer came in reply to his challenge, and at
Farewell! to France, where we had to remain:
that moment a star-shell broke in the distance, Farewell! to the barracks, the mud, and the rain.

illuminating the entire country thereabouts, including
the form before him. There disclosed was his rain-
coat draped upon the machine gun. He replaced his
gun within its holster, turned upon Ins heel, and
walked away muttering to himself.
"MY IMPRESSIONS OF THE FRENCH
PEOPLE"
We've handled the pick under desperate strain
We've even worked hard on the aeroplane.
We've given the field the safest protection;
With the gat on our side we've shown our perfection;
We've even stood well our Sunday inspection,
Hiding the flaws that were out for detection.
We've trampled the fields of the limestone and clay,

Did you ever see the reception given a long-lost son Doing squads east in a soldierly way
when he returns home? If you did, you will under- We've patiently stood in line for our pay,
stand the kind of reception the American soldiers In this wonderful country so far, far away.

received when they were the first Amexes to arrive

m any small French town. X'othing was too good for And now we're soon to leave for the States;
them, and all kinds of small favors were granted to Leave the stone houses, stone walls, and high gates
make things more comfortable. Leave all the wineshops with their very cheap rates,
The idea that most people harbor of the French And go back to the country that nobody hates.
people is taken from the city life. The average
American has no conception of the habits and customs Hurrah ! for the good old L". S. A.,

of the French who inhabit the small towns and villages. The land of sunshine, where work seems like play

During the past five and strength of the

years the life We're now coming back to you to stay,

country has been sapped by the war, and in place of The Kaiser is beaten, so let's all shout hurray!

young men working on the farms and doing the manual DAHLE.
 FfUe del'lslc — —
Main street

Old St.Vorles Part of the Seine

5
•E
I

N
E
 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 107

THE STORY OF CHATILLON-SUR-SEINE heavy toll of lives among its population, over 500 of

its men having been killed in battle. During the first

./ Glimpse Into the Past of the City Where the
Battle of the Maine in 1914, Marshal Toffre established
639th Made Its Home
his headquarters in the city, from which he directed
Chatillon-sur-Seine is one of the most beautiful the great battle that turned the tide of the war and
spots in France, and on ground every foot of which doomed Germany's armies to final failure. A picture
has a history all its own. of the chateau of Marshal Marmont, Due of Raguese,
where Marshal Joffre resided during bis stay in this
Situated in the picturesque Seine valley near the
city, appears on this page.
source of that famous river, Chatillon-sur-Seine and
its environs have for centuries enjoyed a reputation Many Historic Structures
for their beauty of scenery. French poets of the The town possesses several buildings of great historic
Middle Ayes sang of life in Chatillon, of the splendor interest, the most famous of which is the Church of
of its site, the solitude of its neighboring forests, the St. Vorles, first built in the 7th century. We read of
freshness of its valleys, and the limpid beauty of the Isaac,Bishop of Langres, transporting the relics of St.
many rivers and streams about it
Vorles to this church in the year 998 A. D. Bernard is
Of chief interest is the River Seine, which winds its mentioned as the builder underground oi the curious

course through the town. A second stream, the Douix, chapel of the church, only a small part of which now

has its source in Chatillon and offers a magnificent view- remains intact. Since 1597, when the Church of St.
\ orles was rebuilt, there have been few changes made
as it springs from under a cliff of solid rock, 110 feet
in it and it appears today almost exactly as it did at
in height. After running for a short distance, the
one of the arms of the Seine and that time.
Douix flows into
thence through the town, passing under many of the On the hill near the Church of St. \ orles may be
buildings and giving a Venice-like appearance to some seen the ruins df the chateau of the Dukes of Burgundy.
of its streets. At one time considered one of the strongest fortifica-
tions in France, the chateau in 1597 was destroyed by
History of Chatillon the population of at the heavy
Chatillon, infuriated
The origin of Chatillon-sur-Seine is lost in the and cruel taxes imposed upon them by the Dukes. It
dimness of antiquity. As far back as the time of the has never been rebuilt since. The bake-shop, kitchen,
Gauls, several centuries before the beginning of the and a considerable portion of the walls of the old
Christian Era, there stood upon its site a crude fortress, chateau, however, are still in a fair state of preservation
erected undoubtedly as a barrier against the invading and should be interesting to visit. The interior of the
Romans. Trace of this ancient citadel can still be seen enclosure formed by the shell of walls has been
today in the ruins of the Chateau des Dues, a photo- converted into a cemetery and the many quaint and
graph of which appears on this page. From that time curious inscriptions to be found on its tombstones
until the present, experiencing varying strokes of furnish a better understanding of the history of the
fortune, at times enjoying peace and prosperity, and Middle Ages.
again enduring the ordeal of siege and the horrors of
war, the town has maintained its existence.
Noted Frenchman Born Here
Chatillon-sur-Seine claims many distinguished
In 1185 King Philip besieged the city and a consid-
Frenchmen as her own. William Philandrier, the
erable part of it was destroyed upon its fall. At that
most celebrated architect of the 16th century, was
time Chatillon was considered the key to the territory
born here, and several interesting specimens of archi-
of the Dukes of Burgundy, who made it their capital
tecture attributed to him may still be seen in the Bourg
and lived there from the 10th to the 15th century.
section of the town. Edme Veringuet, another
During the 16th and 17th centuries Chatillon was a
Chatillon architect, later drew the plans of modern
flourishing town, being included in a list prepared for
Paris.Other noted Chatillonnais ranked high among
the king of seventeen towns noted for their commerce
Old World diplomats, warriors, authors, and artists,
and industry. During succeeding years, however, harsh
as the numerous streets named after them testify.
laws and heavy taxes ruined the weaving industry,
which was the main source of the city's prosperity,
and today there remains scarcely a trace of its ancient
commercial glory. At present, Chatillon is mainh an
agricultural community, although it possessess several FORCE OF HABIT
factories, which, however, were changed into munition Schenck mean by giving the
What did
Patterson :

plants during the war. we counted off?

command "Squads right" before

Chatillon-sur-Seine numbers approximately 5000 Tyrrell Ob, he's a poker player and can't get out of
:

inhabitants. The Great War has taken an unusually the habit of shuffling them up once in a while.
108 » 639TH AER O SQUADRON
AN APOLOGY FOR THE BUCK we believe, used their patriotism as a veil for their
ambitions.
A hook of a military organization would hardly be
complete without a few contributions from the Buck; Perhaps the most terrible army of Bucks were those
the backbone of the Army; the winning factor of the in the army of Cromwell. It was here that the morale
and integrity of the Bucks defeated autocracy forever.
War. The most honorable rank in the Army is that
An entire regiment of the enemy would flee at the
of the Buck Private. He does the most menial work;
approach of a half dozen of these Bucks. To these,
he is cursed and builied by everyone. Still, through it then, we give the credit of establishing the most hon-

all, he alone cannot lose his job. The importance of orable rank in the army, which, since that time, has
by those discriminating more than held its own. In that army, a Buck was
the Buck is fully realized
often known reprimand a Colonel for cursing!
to This
historians who digress on military exploits with just
is the Buck's true, democratic spirit.
praises to the Buck, who is invariably addressed with
The independence of the Buck has never been ques-
the most enviable appellations. Arches of triumph,
tioned. It overwhelming passion for liberty
is the
statues of Victory, are "dedicated to those who fell,"
We
that gives him this fur which we have fought.
and those were our brave Bucks. have freely criticized those things which we believed
unjust. We have never been reduced. Some of us
(but those we admit to lie the worst part) are too
ambitious; but these we forgive, although we cannot
admit them to our Grand Legion of Bucks.

It is remarkable in perusing the pages of history to

discover the large number of great names which, at

one time, were preceded by "Private." In order to

understand the psychology of the Buck, history has
proved that it is first necessary to have been a Buck.
I Alexander the Great understood the commoner's
lad
view, Ins Empire would not have fallen to fragments

immediately after his death; Hannibal could have

razed Rome; Louis XIV. could have conquered
William the Silent. Those men, if they could have

at least experienced the trials and tribulations of the

Buck, would have never been defeated. W e glance at

the noble exploits of Marlborough, Murat, and

Ney,
Joffre with pride. We believe that the Great Com-
moner, William Pitt, lover of liberty, was derived
Anyone who ha> been member of the A. E. F. can
from the spirit of the Buck. Plato and Cato the
a
Younger had been Bucks.
tell you of the Buck in that War. After spending years
subjugated himself to the But the American public knows nothing ot the
of independence, he boldly
glories of the Buck. Parents rejoice when their chil-
utmost servility and tyranny for the sake of his
dren leave the Grand Legion. These flash their ranks
country. He has seen his brothers in civilian clothes
before their friends. Even the First Class Privates
preferred to him with the luxuries of home about him.
are with the joy of their promotions.
transported
He has seen those who were inferior to him in civilian
People "He's only a Private" in a nonchalant
say,
life, above him and direct him with the authority
rise
manner which really conveys as strong an impression'
of the Government. And with the calm sobriety of
as, "He's only a President." They forget the deeds
a Locke, he has been instructed by those whom he
of the Mucks; hut how our children will rejoice when
could have well instructed. Perhaps his temper has
they read the feats of the Bucks on the golden pages
given away when those punishments, morally unjust,
of Time.
have been inflicted by the authority of the tyrannical
Articles of War; hut the call to his duty has again We, 639th Bucks, are few in number, but our spirit

restored his equanimity. is great. We know how subservient our rank is, how
many dirty jobs we have tackled, how often we have
Above everything, let it be recalled with pride by
us Bucks that in this War we have proven our un- cursed those above us; but now that it is over, we

bounded patriotism in offering our services and lives are proud that wc were Bucks and did not desert their
to the great cause for less than anyone. Some cause. A M. STACKHOUSE,
demanded and got other things. These, in many cases, Late Buck Private, 639th Aero Squadron.
 — ; ;

Se 639TH AERO SQUADRON 109

DUST AND DIN

Dedicated to the lowly "Buck," with no apology

They'll complain of mud and rain

When they're quartered on the .Seine
And they're resting from a day's hard, open fire;
But when it comes to action
They'll not "renig" a traction,
But fight right on, those hoys who never tire.

Here's a man who's fine of face

With an easy, natural grace,
And you know him for a care-free mountaineer;
He's a diamond in the rough,
639TH TUNNEL
As he'll show you soon enough Now we come to the hole
If von ever fall foot-weary in the rear. That goes in the hill,
\\ here the boys are working
Just fit to kill.
The) clean and fine and strong,
're

And you think they're weak, you're wrong

if
The hole is made for protection
They're fighting for the honor of their land;
From the air, on land or water,
From gas bombs and shell,
They'll do their share of slaughter,
And if it wasn't for this suggestion
\\ e all would sure go to "hell."
For Right and Love and Honor do they stand.

If the old "Boche" comes along,

There are things we can't forget He will find us well protected,
And we'll get the heathens yet, All together in a bunch,
Though it won't he through the writing of a note; In a hole we have selected.
All our methods will lie clean,
History will not quote them mean, The tunnel gang are sure some boys
For the Viper's sting they'll be as antidote. From morning 'till close of dav
They are toiling hard with their toys,
Thru the hill as the)' make hay.
When the Kaiser's dreams come true
His career will have run through
Their boss is very good to them,
And the Shades of Night descending, blind his course;
You hear them never talk;
He'll awaken with a start
He tells them what to do
Just before they take his heart.
And sees that the)' never balk.
Yet he thought he'd robbed the Devil of his force.
Ha! Ha! "TOP KICK."

They'll storm him with barrage

Till he cries out, "'Tis mirage!"
As close behindhim shrink his retinue;
But our boys will .get them all
And they'll leave them where the)' fall A DREAM
For the writhing, angry mob to run them through, Last night as I lay a-sleeping

A horrible to me
dream came
Yi — from the U. S. A.
since they're Private Traw was commanding the Squadron,
They'll help win the war some day; And Schlosser was M. S. E.
From their lips we'll learn just how the wounded fell
Old "Buck" Atwell was crying out "Gimme,"
There will be glad cries of cheer
While the Lieutenant was doing K. P.
As we hear them drawing near,
While the Kaiser's blood is boiled and burned in Hel And they fought like Hell for Libert)',
Ha! Ha! Anonymous. — On the hanks of the M-E-U-S-E.
110 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON

The tfearse, The .sact procession

THEAn aerial
SAD PART OF IT.
collision

9 '

; I
 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 111

Gustafson, took charge of the funeral and spared no create a deep impression, and caused everyone to

effort to make the ceremonies as impressive as possihle. realize more forcibly, the transiency oi life. Accom-
panying the procession, but high overhead, was Lieu-
The bodies were removed to the A. E. F. hospital at
tenant Henricks m a 1)11-4 plane, he and his observer,
Chateau-Villain, thence to one of the school buildings
Lieutenant Meyer, seeming to hover over the column
at Chatillon. Solid oak, lead-lined caskets had been on guard, while the drone of the motor sounded sad,
secured from Dijon and the bodies were allowed to lie rather than, as usually, combative.
in state until the time of the obsequies. Each casket I iion arrival at the cemetery, the various organiza-
was covered by a large and almost hidden
American flag tions were drawn up and aligned to form a hollow
beneath a bovver of fresh flowers. A guard of honor, square about the graves. Chaplain Shank performed
composed of non-commissioned officers, remained posted the last rites, and the splendid quartet of the 157th, a
until the cortege left for the cemetery. At 2:00 p. m. favorite of Lieutenant "Lead
Gustafson, rendered
on the 22nd, led by the Artillery band of the SI st Kindly Light." Rose
were dropped on the
petals
Division and company of Infantry, the procession
a caskets, and after each one was lowered the firing
left the flying field and marched slowly to the American platoon fired a salute of three rounds, the band played
cemetery at the other edge of town. The bodies were a dirge, and the bugler sounded "Taps." Lieutenant
carried on a three-ton Packard truck driven by Henricks, who all the while was circling overhead,
Chauffeur Whooley, assisted by Private Shove. The then glided silently down, and as he passed over the
truck had had its sides removed and was draped with graves. Lieutenant Meyer from the rear seat dropped
black and white. It made an admirable substitute for flowers.
an artillery caisson. The hearse was flanked by the The men returned to camp filled with a deep sense
—
honorary pallbearers eighteen officers six for each of — of sorrow over the loss of the popular officers, and
the deceased. Following the hearse were the mourners: flying that night was discussed as being too risky for
first, a group of officers, then the 157th Aero
large a permanent occupation. Although this feeling toward
Squadron in and then members of the other
a body, flying soon wore off, the memory of the deaths and
Squadrons, and a number of French citizens. the impressive ceremonies will undoubtedly remain
En route, the solemn music of the band served to forever.

Part of American Camp at Ourches. 639th Barracks Behind Mid'lle Tree.

112 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
I WHAT OO YouTHlNK DONT CHf\ FERW
MAT -THE f^THiS IS YOUR B/«THPOV JGlT £V£RV ONE MflSV
I GET UP HMD WBS
KR MEA
no cone
Of*
PANS

Trials of a Poor K. P.

SOME OF MY K. P.'S for a few drinks in some swell cafe in the Loop, so

One day Sergeant Thompson and the touring car I told him I didn't drink.
Sam Rhodes was one of the detail for K. P. one
chauffeur, Hull, made their initial visit to the kitchen

in the capacity of K. P.s, and believe me they did their day. He wasn't feeling at all well, because he told
me so when he reported for duty at 7:00 a. m. He
share of the chores. Hull shoveled two tons of coal
said he had been up most of the night and thought he
and cut one-half the wood as an appetizer before
wanted to answer sick call at 9:00 a. m., as he would
breakfast. Thompson, besides carrying the coal and
like to lie marked "Quarters." Since I thought he had
wood into the kitchen, pumped three G. I. cans full said he
been nursing a sick friend the night before I

of water and scrubbed several greasy pans before he could answer sick call. You know me, I sure pity
satisfied his hunger. I was surprised to see the men anyone that is sick. I also admire a fellow that will

report for kitchen police, and when 1 inquired of the belli ;i s i c l< comrade. Well, Sam reported to the
Top Kick why these two non-coms happened to be on infirmary at 9:00 a. m. and came back to the kitchen

such an easy detail for Sunday he informed me that at 9:30 a. m. marked "Duty." Poor Sam! During
they reported late for retreat on the previous evening, bis absence I found out that he had been up most of
and that he would see to it that all such offenders the night, all right, but not nursing any sick friend.
would receive the same penalty in the future. As far Instead, be had been nursing the kitty in a poker
as I was concerned, both Thompson and Hull did their game in No. 5 Barracks. When I laid eyes on him I

duty and did it well, and I can assure you they both put him tn scrubbing pans, pots, and garbage cans, and
enjoyed a sound night's slumber after finishing at told him that it was his duty to have them all shining
7 :30 p. m. and cleaned well enough to eat from. He started

our old friends, "Sixteen Franek" well, but during the course of events in the morning
A few days later,

and "Parson" Davis, helped to do the chores, and my eyes were attracted to other details and I forgot

believe me it was a scream. Franek had attended a Sam for the time being. When I glanced in his

dance the evening previous in a nearby town, and he direction he asked Cook Franka Paul if
was gone. I

naturally didn't feel well that day, for he hadn't hit he had seen anything of Rhodes and he said, "I 'a
the hay until 4:00 a. m. You know it was a bit Rhodesa was outa da kitch for one a hour." So get 1

hard for him to report at 7 :00 a. m. for K. P. Poor out on Sam's trail and, after searching through both
barracks, found his royal highness as snug as a bug
Franek! He peeled four bags of spuds, two bushels of I

one peck of carrots, besides hauling in in rug with bis trench shoes under his bead for a
a
onions, and
and scrubbing pillow and dreaming of Cupid and little angels. I sure
two cords of wood, shoveling some coal,

a dozen pans or so. After getting through with this, was raving, so I grabbed Sam by the slack of the

Cook Chauffeur 1st Class Hogan let him (Franek) breeches and asked him if be thought he was on a
scrub up the kitchen while he (Hogan) was resting vacation, or if he really understood that he could be

"Sixteen" after he finished that night, court-martialed for refusing obey orders.
to Poor
himself. said,
think he would volunteer for K. P. Sam! I hated to do it, but had to, and everything
I
that he didn't
Hogan before he the about the kitchen was looking spic and span that
again tomorrow, but thanked left

kitchen at 7:30, saying that he enjoyed his visit very night. The boys appreciated seeing Sam on K. 1'.

much and hoped that he would meet either Hogan or and heartily gave him the K. P. yell, which I may
myself sometime after we were discharged in Chicago. — mention was composed by Sam himself and used
He assured us that he would extend us a warm many times when the Squadron paraded the streets of
reception. I suppose he meant that he would blow us Chatillon. PETE McARDLE.
 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON 113

E^ ^ ^^M
N|

^^^^^^^^^^P^H
 POROEflf /
£MTR«MC E.
CoMP
,o'

cnMP

- M O T E ~
H/SNOTfl PUZZLE-
/S
0/VLy THE ROUTE THE
639tm TOOK THROUGH THE
M ILL"
KEY TOR/ DOLE
I O- WHERE 6flR,YflCK BflC-S
|
WERE TfinEN OFFflNO PUT
SACK ON SHOULDER
V-EVEKY TIME WE WERE
TOLO TO SHRKFL it up
A — VERY TOUGH SOUVENIR.
SUR- S£//J£
HUNTERS

THIS TRIP THROUC-H THE ..NAME, MO. AND

MILL WAS TAKEN TWICE ;.HISTORY H£«£
BY OUR, SqUflDRoH

IN SPECTOR S ^

O O Q 4^ MIolUTES HERE.
Clot ri£ S * * *
H

SHAVES
GIVELM W£*£
Sfl/VS LATHER

S LJ
1M0UR HERE
 ,

639TH AERO SQUADRON 115

THE MILL They pile you up a good supply

Of this thing, and of that.
At the place of embarkation As you are slowly passing by,
We have a complicated mill, Startled as a rat.

Which gets little admiration

And gives each man a chill. You wonder what'll happen next,
As you slowly make your pace,
It has won itself a name When you find yourself at last all fixed

By themany passers h> At your final starting place-

For they all go through the same
\\ ith a curse or with a sigh. Then the final scramble starts
To get hack your old things too;
The purpose of the house, The trouble is in finding parts
No douht lint I am right, That really belong to you.
Is to kill the cootie, flee and louse,
And they surely are a fright. Going through the cootie mill

Surely is no joke,
We hang out our belongings Losing leggings, socks, and hills,

I pon a clothing rack. And such things will provoke.

Everybody thronging
To release his heavy pack. But the thing that keeps up hope
Is the thought of going home,
All equipment must he shown. So we take a lot of dope
Tlic contents of our bag As through this land we roam.
To the inspector must be known
DAHLE.
As much as everv rag.-

While our things are being sterilized

\\ e have to take our hath.
It almost makes one paralyzed,
That chill from the lengthy path.

A dozen doctors, more or less,

what we have to see.

Is

They look us over just to guess

What's ailing you or me. -

With a spyglass and a microscope

And flashlights very bright,
The doctor seeks in faith and hope
To find the parasite.

As result of the inspection

Some look very bare,
The doctors' old suspection
Made them cut off all the hair.

Xew clothing is the next to come,

Must important thing of all,
Ami, boy, you're surely going some
If you get a fit at all.

The issue is the very same

For tall men and for short,

But since you must be in the game, Map of France Showing Travels of the t>:::>tli

Take it, and be a sport.

116 639TH AERO SQUADRON
SH H-H- l"l
HOLMES AND
I L.0OPIIN6 TOR THE I

J639TH 5QU»t>R0dV^ y

— i sh oes y^ — *•

Growing ' 'l>i Awaiting Orders for Home.

Still at Genicart No. 2, A fellow cam in when 1 askd him his

tother day and
Bordeaux, Bask Section". rank he tole me Another guy wanted to
11 inches.
April 22, 1919. bring his raincote in the shower hath and still a nothcr
Dear Hawaii :
— was asked bis cereal number and be replied that he
I spose you will be surprised when you read this and owned a farm. But just the same we are makin records
in the time put tin them thru by tellin them if they dont
find I am still in Han but 1 gess
France. I am sorry
I cannot see you on May 30th as rote in my last letter. I
hurrie they will loose the boat.

When I rote that letter we had noos that we would They have purty good shows here but how can 1
leeve hear in to days hut today a officer tole me it enjoy a show when you aint there. And just when the
might be to months. show starts we here the whistles of three boats just
1 hope you are not gettin tird oi watin for me. leevin for home. So you no just how rottin I am feelin.

Although this is the fifth date 1 had to call off, taint Theres new hunch helpin in the mill now that have
a
my fault. been in the AEF for X months. They tell us they are
We thot we wood be hack for Christmas, then New goin to do our work cause were goin home hut that is

Years, then Washingtons birthday, Easter and now old bunk to me Han. 1 no this game to gosh darn
May 30th. so I would like to make a date for well now. These tank men are purty good guys. One

Thanksgivin and be sure. of them give me a pippin tother day and it wuz the 1st

Of course if I am injured or get sick I may he lucky I had since been over here. These guys have been
I

and get home before this. drivin water tanks up around the front. You no after

are doin the same work. a battle theres always a lot of smoke and sut fixing
Up to the presint ritin we
Pushin them thru the Cootie mill. This aint an awful round and these guys drives the tanks around and lay
proper subjek to rite to such a nice young lady Han the dust so when we want to make a nother advance on

but nevertheles its all in the war. Jerry everything is clear.

Its funny as the doos to see the rookies go thru A huddie of mine just come in and wanted to bet
the mill. I am one of the inspektors and f ritin the me 2 bucks we wood be out a here in a weak. 1 gess
life out of them. They say yes sir and no sir to me. I he got some good dope because its the 1st time I ever
offen laff after they pass, of course I wate til they get heard him want to bet in my life. I dont gambol not
out of my site cause I hate to hirt there feelins. even shake hones cause 1 want a return the same
Most of them have only been here from 5 to 8 straight guy as 1 was when I left you. Remember that

months and a bunch of them is S. O. S. men which last nite? Some nite, gee whiz when I got outside I

means Safe or Sound. They aint been anywhere's felt like balliu Honest Han I felt punk.
m\ self.

near the front, but there going home toot sweet and An orderlj what works at Hedquarters just tole me
eoppin all the glory. They all ask a hunch of fulish that the boat we wuz to sail on broke her enjin in

questions and we are there to fill them up. We even Xew York would take six months to get
barber and it

tell them they are to leave the nite they come in to this a new enjin. 1 am the only guy be tole this to and I
here camp and promise them 1st glass passage on the promised I wouldnt tell anyone, but I no you can keep
transport. it shady. You can tell Xell and Lizzie cause tis all in
 !

639TH AERO SQUADRON 117

the family and I no they wont tell. It will be now I am getin the spring Eevur. 1 never misst you as much
about the last of Septr. afore we leeve or latter and as I do rite now. Just gut some news that the) wuz
it takes these boats from this harber about n weaks goin to close the camp down the end of may so 1 gess

to make the trip with good wether so gess will be 1 I I will make that the 4th of July now. Will clos
to home at Thanksgiving alrite unless here something I with lots of hapy wishes and love,

oposite. yours
The wether has been swell for the past few days and 10E.

BRINGING. THE LAST MEMBER OF THE

639tm SQORDROri ON BOflKD R TRANSPORT
Sometime after 13 7-r h o. - all th e.
OTHER MEM6£«i HAVE DIEO or OLD AGE

orl, Lafayette. We're Still Here.

THE CRIME OF THE RECRUITING SERGEANT

HOW WE HAPPENED TO WEAR O. D

The Recruiting Sergeant sees you walking down the to some other sunn) climate. Just sign up for the
street with a downcast look on your face. Right away aviation section and they will have you ready to fly in

he begins to smile as he says to himself, "Ha! a victim two or three weeks." Hut who inell wants to fly with
He walks up a pick and shovel? Beware, Recruiting Sergeant! We
for me." you with a smile and hands
to
will see you again
you a cigar, asks you how you are, and then gives you
that aw fill line of his which he has learned from a His line was clever and bis offers were wonderful,
copy sent out by I'ncle Sam. You are feeling blue. but now that we have bad experience with both—
Your girl broke a date, or some one of the many other beware! He might tell us that we can see the world,
difficulties that confront the fellows of this country has but when one is guarded on the train and if one gets
come to you. out of one's box car, which holds eight horses or forty
men, K. P. for a week you get a
is the penalty. If
The Sergeant's and seemingly nice ways, win
line,
pass to visit some nice town, the M. P.'s you that tell
you, and you sign up. He tells you to report there
tomorrow at three o'clock. You report as you promised, you can't go here, and you can't go there. You have
to march along at attention all the time with your arm
take your examinations, and are then sent to some
ready to salute the shavetails and on up to the north
recruiting station, going through some more examina-
star.
tions and red tape. Then you say, "I DO." After that
it is a different life, all caused by that Recruiting Oh ! we know you, so beware of whom you band
Sergeant and his Government line. Ob' the prayers your line and cigars in the future, or else they will

that we have offered for him 1

have to blow taps before ten o'clock at night.

The Sergeant said, "Yes, you go to Texas, and then SERGEA.YT YORK.
 — —
118 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON

5b &CR
HEARD OUTSIDE "Pepper" Roberts says he was verj careful in voting
Glendenning Murphy, did you hear that John
:
for members of the Editorial Staff to vote for no
Redmond was dead ' privates, as it would take them off K. P. and Guard
Murphy: No. lists, therein increasing the frequency of his turn at

Wakefield (standing near by): Wasn't he in our those duties.

Squadron once?

< haul Jaggle (on hearing the 2nd call) : Get up,
Sergeant Paine has been decorated with two War
Webster!
Crosses.— 639th Daily News.
Webster: If irni got up as earl} as 1 do you would
still be a private.
Private Kennedy had his new "Nieuport" out a few
days ago. 639th Ihiily News.
W ho is the best singer, and which is the best song
"Shorty" Gordon now has a small bat under his in the outfit?

bunk and is ready to entertain all visitors at all hours; \ enzke, and his song, "Tying the Leaves So They
still he frankly admits he is a non-combatant. 639th W on't ( !ome I lown."

Dailv News.

use
DID YOU EVER WATCH
Glendenning: It's funny, Varney, you always
"l\i|i" \ an Every fix a pair of shoes'
your left hand while eating.
"Buttes" Hallinan empty the P. C.s?
Bloom : I use mine, too.
"Gwendolyn" smoke a cigarette?
Holley : Yes. but the reason that you use yours is
"Roy" Hicks standing at attention.''
because your right hand is lull.
"Dad" ('ranee fall off a hay loft?
"Screw-driver" having his picture taken in Hangar
AND THEY GAVE HIM A PILL No. (>?

Forman I've : got a pain here, Doe. What is that

a symptom of? Millett to Blough : How near is it to mess call?
Medico: Stomach ache.
Bloug'h : It's time now.
Millett: Hold it off a minute! (Runs and gets bis
After the final schooling of observers at Chatillon mess kit.)
sur Seine, some time along in January, we were ordered
to drill anhour each day.
As we had not drilled for over a year, the men were While at Ourches we were all glad to see our friend,
pretty "rusty" and bad forgotten what they had been "Doe Salts," gain a promotion to Sergeant. His pills
taught in Texas. evidently brought results.

We were drilling in platoons, and McBride was in

charge of the 3rd platoon. After the common. "Platoon, Schultz was said to carry $32,5011 worth of insurance
left front into line," the platoon came into line and He was worth some money dead, was he not?
was halted. When Schenck shouted out to McBride,
"Dress 'em up, Mae!" Mac answered, "Damn it, ain't Shorty Peters : Every time I see a medic I want t<

the\ dressed?" vomit.

 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 119

SURE SIGNS OF HOME Stickler Bill, 1 found it.

Smith has a clerical jol> in Headquarters Detachment Lane: What, Stick?

Curren won a watch in a raffle.
Stickler The lost chord.
:

Bill Lane got his have to Paris.

Lane: Where?
Paine lost his job with the Colonel.
Stickler: Have you ever heard Dan Stone snore?
Supply Sergeant is issuing salvage clothing

We have often wondered if Francis would blush if

he lifted up the table cloth and found that the table had
YES, HE WAS MENTIONED legs.
Morton: You say you've been mentioned in the
military way. In what connection?
Franek How do you get that way, Jay, telling the
:

Johnston: In connection with the A. W. O. I.. I

girl thatyou were C. O. today when you were on K. P.?
took last month.
Jay Jay Klema: Well, doesn't C. O. stand for Cuisine
Operator?
HEARD AT THE DENTIST'S
Officer (to Forman sitting in the waiting room) OVERHEARD AFTER PAY DAY
What's the trouble, toothache? Parks: What did you put away on pay night, Pete?
Forman No, sir. :
Peters: A few lemonades and a grouch.
Officer : Bridge broken ?

Forman: Haven't any, sir.

Holley: Say, McBride, I had a hole in my pocket
Officer: Want your teeth cleaned, then.'
and lost a half franc.
Forman : They are clean enough, sir.
McBride: How much did you have in your pocket?
( What is it. then?
)fficer:

Forman: Somebody said it was warm in lure.

Holley A franc and a half.
:

McBride: Why didn't you lose the franc also?

Hollev: 'Cause it had more sense.
OH, LA LA
Slahom : Say, Harry, did you hear about Holderman Sennott : Say, Bill, when I came into the Army I

nearly choking to death at supper the other night." weighed 126 pounds, and now I weigh Kill pounds.
Shove: No, how in - — did that happen? Zessinger: How do you account for that'
Slahom: Why, he was eating a piece id corned Sennott: Climate, my hoy, climate.
willie and someone hollered "Whoa." Zessinger: Do you know that they are building a
business block in South Bend forty-eight stories high
with no elevators?
HE EARNED THEM Sennott: How do they get to the top?
First Member: I dreamed I won ten thousand wound Zessinger: ('limb it, my boy, climb it!

stripes last night.

Second Member: How was that?
One night at the "Y" this remark originated:
First Member: I thought they gave me one lor every
Hogan : Say, Julson, have a cup of chocolate
cootie bite.
with me.
fulson : If you don't mind, "Hash," I'll take the

"Buck" Atwell of New York, busily engaged in limit- idngt cinq centimes, instead.
ing for cooties, said tu W eiuzierl : "Say, Johnnie, I

know why dat guy Napoleon always had his picture Zebian: Hey, Johnnie, have you ever been abroad
took wid his hand in de front of his shoit." before?
W'einzierl : Yes, many times, Zeb. I have gone from
Bayonne, New Jersey, to New York City.
THEIR FRENCH
"American soldiers are respectfully requested to
Come up, Sam, and get out on the deck.
Rastus:
address the waiters in English, as their French is not
We're passin' a ship.
generally understood." cue Call
Sambo: What does I Eoah a ship passin'.
me when we pass a tree.
Stickler: Say, Dan, which is correct: The hen is

setting, or the hen is sitting? What are the latest rumors around the Guard
Stone (somewhat of a poultry fancier) : 1 soon can House, Mac?
tell whether she is laying or lying. Mac: "All prisoners."
 : :

120 639TH AERO SQUADRON

It was a hot day in Ourches and I'mlauf was behind Blough: When the Allies stopped fighting, how did
the field range stirring rice and at the same time they know they were near Germany?
relieving his thirst with a bottle of cool beer, when the McBride : I don't know. How ?

G O, walked in. Al discovered bis presence, took the Blough Because they could smell Cologne,
bottle from bis mouth, and said, "It's damn hot, Lieu-
tenant, damn hot," finishing the bottle while the It was weeks before Easter and we had been
a lew
Lieutenant looked on with envy.
paid weeks before (and our pay doesn't last
several
forever). This remark was overheard:
Old Kanute interested the boys around the barracks Shannon: Say, Bevo, let's take twenty francs!'
with stories regarding the wonderful possibilities of
Burns: Sorry, Bill, but it's Lent
haying in Nebraska, especially in the vicinity of Cozad
before, Shove sent an inquiry to the Cosad Daily News
The Gold I lust Twins, Sammie Bluestein and Sammie
for statistics about the town.
Recchia
Recchia : Say, Bluey, have you got ten Francs?
McGovern, lining up In detail one fine September
Bluestein: In de book, I got it, yes.
day : "I see many misshu faces."

McGovern: Rhodes, 1 understand they are putting

John Gilfoy was visiting the dental infirmary. He
billiard tables in every mess hall
sat in the big chair, had the towels adjusted properly,
Rhodes: Why?
and the dentist proceeded to extract the offending
McGovern: So as to teach the men better English.
tooth. As the molar gave way, John let out a howl
that could he heard in Germany and jumped straighl
W'addell : How did you like the garlic this evening?
out of the chair, taking the towels with him.
Sutton: I'll match you to see who gets the ,^as
"That's all right." said the dentist, calmly, "just sit
masks.
still; von needn't stand at attention."

The burning question which is ever before the Greims What time is it, Sutton?
American lane's mind is, why are the Yanks taking Sutton: \ly watch has stopped; a cootie got into it.

so many French Janes on the "line, honor, and obey" Greims: Fell in the spring and got drowned?
methods, and each and every one of our letters is full Sutton : No, got in between the ticks and fell asleep.
of news' We see such headlines as these: "The
Yanks are in demand by the Parisian lanes," etc. But York: Say, do you know that Tiny Kennedy has
in my mind the question comes, "Is it right for the non-coms malaria?
Yanks to marry French Janes.-'" Why.-' Well, because Schenck: W bat's that?
we came over here to fight for them and not with them. York: You eat and sleep well, but can't work.

Goinw Aboard.
 <?Jfe 639TH AERO SQUADRON 121

Map of the United States Showing Where 639ersCame From

ROSTER OF SQUADRON PERSONNEL

(Changes before Jan. 24, 1918, not included.)

The numbers following each name are references to photographs and writeups.

OFFICERS
FRITZ, CAPTAIN EMANUEL page 66. GAIN, CAPTAIN OMER O. page 66.

Commanding Officer Medical Officer

928 Fresno Ave., Berkeley, Calif. Dublin, Texas.

SNOW, 1ST LIEUT. WINTER N. page iii'

Supply Officer
Mars Hill. Maine.

FORMER OFFICERS
HANSELL, CAPTAIN JOHN M. page66. McKINLEY, 1ST LIEUT. LEO. G. page 67.

Transportation Officer, Ourches Censor and Information Officer

Care S. B. Locke & Co., Muskogee, Okla. Care Boyd & McKinley, Keokuk, Iowa.

GILLETT, 1ST LIEUT. FRANK E. page67. MULHOLLAND, 2ND LIEUT. EMMET K. page 67.
Post Adjutant, Ourches Assistant Construction Officer, Ourches
317 Lawton Ave., El Paso, Texas. 1522 Second Ave., Fort Dodge, Iowa.

RUGGLES, 2ND LIEUT. WM. B. page 67.

Assistant Construction Officer, Ourches

3729 Stratford St., Dallas, Texas.
122 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
ENLISTED MEN
ACKERMAN, IRVING pages 78, 79. BYRNE, PAUL J. pages68,69.
Private Corporal
UI14 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, N. Y 16 Bergenline Ave., Union Hill, X. I.

ADAIR, JOHN W. pages 90, 91. COALE, JOHN H. P ages72,73.

Private Chauffeur
Big Lake, Minn. 51(1 Orkney Read, Baltimore, Md.

ALLEN, GEORGE C. pages 79, 82. CHILLERS, XELSOX IS. page 97.

Private Private
33 Enola Ave., Ivenmore, Buffalo, X. Y. Enid, Okla.

ALLEN, JOHN I. pages 71, 72. COCHRAN, CLARENCE E. pages 79,80.

Chauffeur Chauffeur
I larrison, N. ^ .
Fairfax, Okla.

ARMSTRONG, GEORGE E. pages83,8S. CONNOR, EDWIN E. pages92,93.

I 'rivate ( hanfteur
1317 Germantown St., Dayton, Ohio. Mangnm, Okla.

ATWELL, JAMES P. pages 47, 97. COPELAXD, AARON pages75, 76.

Sergeant Private
417 E. 147th St., New York City. 775 West Pratt St., Baltimore, Mil

BARRAXS, WILLIAM T. pages 83, 85. CORCORAN, THOMAS D. pages93,94.

Corporal Private

Lenox, Iowa. 4443 Sidney Ave.. Chicago, 111.

REE, RICHARD F. pages 75, 76. CRANCE, BOYD pages 79. SI.

Sergeant Private

112 Magoon Ave., Med ford, Mass. Station Xo. 1, Route 2, Ashland, kv.

BERDAN, FRANK pages 90, 91. CRAXE, JOSEPH M pages87,88.

Private Private

Wood Lake, Minn Zwingle; Iowa.

BLOOM, FRED R. pages'68,71. CUDWORTH, GEORGE T. pages 76, 7s.

Private Private

Hart New Britain, Conn. Box 38, Assonet, Mass.

18 St.,

BLOUGH, WILLIS C. pages 93, 94. CUNNINGHAM, HARRY pages 93. 95.

Prh ate 1st < lass Chauffeur

Way, Pittsburg, Pa. 323 East Franklin St., Shelbyville, Ind.
7056 Fletcher
BLUESTEIN, SAMUEL pages 93, 94. CURREN, ERNEST pages 79,81.
Private
Private 1st ("lass

333 E. 13th St., New York City.

032 High St., Grand Rapids, Mich.

B( 1LLER, EBERHARD .1. pages 79,82. CZYSY, ALEXANDER pages 68, 70.

Master Electrician (Aviation Mech.) Private

712 7th St., Wausau, Wis. 128 Beaver St.. New Britain, Conn.
BRANDT, WILLIAM C. page97. DAHLE, VIGGO B. pages 87, 88.

Private Private
South Perth Amboy, X. J. Starbuck, Minn
BUONO, VITO pages 86, 87. DAVIS, FRED L. pages 90, 91.

Private 1st Class Private

1572 Third Ave., New York, X. Y. Burbank, Okla.

BURNS, [OHN B. pages 7, 68, 76, 77. DEMMOX, ERNEST pages 79, SO.

Sergeant Corporal
7 Chestnut St., Saxonville, Mass. Four Lakes Farms, Sparta, Mich.
BURNS, RUELL M. pages68,69. 1>( ILLY, JOHN A. pages68,69.
( !orporal Prh ate

32 Callender St, Dorchester, Mass 812 So. 9th St., Norfolk, Neb.
 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON 123

I)( >RXFA , \\ ILLIAM .1. page 97. HICK, JOSEPH F. pages 89, 90.

Private ' oiporal

1612 Sixth Ave. Watervilite, N. V 52o loth \\ e., St ( 'loud, Minn.

ixiWDELL, MICHAEL J. pages 71, 72. HICKS, ROY I.. pages 79,81.
( Chauffeur Private
22 Ferguson Ave., Buffalo, X. Y. P. O. 124, Hicksville, L I., X Y.

DUBE, CHARLES R. pages 90, 91 HOGAN, WILLIAM J. pages 72, 73.

Private Chauffeur 1st Class

399 Birch St., Fall River, Mass. Crown City Hotel, Cortland, X. Y.

FORMAX, LOUIS pages 79, 82. HOLDERMAN, CHARLES pages89,90.

Private Sergeant
Eureka, Calif. 1618 Cherry St., Toledo, Ohio.

FRANCIS, EDV\ IX pages 93, 95. HOLLEY, RUSSELL A. pages 92, 93.
Private Sergeant
200 Henry St., Alton, III Funis, Mont.

FRAXEK. FRANK E. pages 82, 83. HOLLOWAY, JAMES

Private Private
5234 S. Honore St., Chicago, 111. Covington, Ky.

FRASER, WILLIAM R. pages83,84. HOLZ, EDWIN K. pages 76, 78.

Sergeant 1st Class (Aviation Mechanician) Sergeant 1st Class

Harrington, Me. Mayville, \\ is

FUGLEBERG, PAUL pages 83, 84.

HULL, CECIL R. pages 72, 74.

Private Chauffeur
756 So. Third Ave., Sioux Falls, S. I ).
4921 Leary Ave., Seattle, Wash.
IMHOFF, JAMES E. pages 79, 81.
GALTES, WILLIAM F. pages7,68,69
Private
Private 1st < lass
8 Sabina Ave., Mount Washington, Md.
1904 Truxton Ave., Bakersfield, Calif.
JAGGLE, EDWARD H. pages 86, 87.
GILFOY, JOHN T. pages 90, 91. (
"hauffeur
Corporal 1420 Rosemont Ave., Chicago, 111.

02 Rutland St., Boston, Mass. JESSUP, CLIFFORD pages 79, 80

CI.KXDENNIXG, GEORGE I!. pages93,95. Chauffeur
Sergeant I'nion, Iowa.
P. O. Box 401, Providence. R. I. JOHXSON, OSCAR G. pages 76, 77.

GLYXX, RAYMOND pages 68, 69.

Sergeant
J.
805 Fifteenth St., Roekford, 111.
Sergeant 1st Class
128 Bristol St., Springfield, Mass., or JOHXSTOX, DOUGLAS pages 93. 95.

Care Miami Paper Co., West Carrolton, Ohio. Chauffeur

Chase City. Va.
GNEHM, JOHN pages 93, 95.

Private JONES, DEWEY R. pages 90, 91.

Chestnut Tuckahoe, X1
Y. Private
171 St., .

Hartford City, Ind.

GORDOX, FREDERICK J. pages 93, 94.
JONES, SYLVESTER D. pages72, 73.
Corporal
( hauffeur 1st Class
12 Tanner St., Providence, R. I.
232 E. 8th Ave., Conshohocken, Pa.
GREIM, PAIL K. pages 90, 91.
JUDEIKIS, CONSTANTIXE G. pages83,84.
Private
Private
715 Dick St., Reading. Pa.
10032 Indiana Ave., (Imago, 111.

HALLINAN, WALTER pages 79, 82. JCLSON, EDWARD T. pages 71, 72.

Private Chauffeur
T
250 Schenectady Ave., Brooklyn, X. Y. Route X o. 1, Dodgeville, Wis.

HELXRICH, HERMAX pages 86, 87. KENNEDY, EDWARD P. pages 82, 83.

Private Private
89 Carroll St., Paterson, X. J.
4710 Bernard Ave., Chicago, 111.
124 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON
KLEMA, JAMES J pages 82, 83 MONCUR, J \MES E. pages87,88.
Private 1 'rivate
:
330 W. 26th St , Cicero, 111. 1170 Akronian Ct , Akron, ( )hio,

KNIGHT, EZRA pages 93, 95. MORRIS, FORREST L. pages 83, S3.

Chauffeur Private
2(> Bittner Si , I )ayton, ( )hio 13S 13th St., Toledo, Ohio.

KNOWLES, ERNEST \ pages 76, 77. \K >RT< i.\. CLYDE R pages68,70.

Chauffeur
(
'ook
410 Somerset \u., Taunton, Mass. Church and Steel Sts., Salisbury, X. C.

KNUTSON, LLOYD II pages 76, 78. M( ikTo.X, RCSH 1

>
.
i
- '
- S3, S3

Sergeant 1 st (/lass l'ri\ ate

Cozad, Neh Lebanon, Ind

LADENSON, EMANUEL J pages90,91. MURPHY, EDWARD J. pages 72, 73.

Private 1st Class Sergeant 1st Class (Aviation Mechanician)

043 So. Mli St., Philadelphia, Pa. 31 Gramercy Park, New York City.

LAKIN, CLARENCE M pages92,93. NORTON, THOMAS F. pages 7, 72, 73.

Private 1st (lass Chauffeur

2318 Parkland We., Dayton, Ohio. 120 Bayswater St., E. Boston, Mass.

LANE, \\ ILLIAM J. page96. PAINE, RAIL I). pages 72, 74.

Private Dt (
'lass ( "liaulTeur 1st Class

5(l(. Warren St.. Brooklyn, X. Y. 3826 W. Monroe St., Chicago, 111

LEAMING, WILLIAM ( i, pages 90, 92. RALLY, ROLAND page97

(
'orporal Private
5(10 Lincoln Ave., Collingdale, I 'a. Kirkgate Market, Leeds, England.

LE BLANC, CAMILLE J. pages 72, 74. PARKS, JOSEPH J. pages83,8S.

( Chauffeur I'm ate
_'93 Davis St., New Bedford, Mass. Ketchum, Idaho
LE XT, KDW ARD I". pages87,88. PATTERSON, RICHARD II. pages93,95.
(
Private 1st Class 'hauffeur
Narrows, \ a. 9 Canal St., Brattleboro, Vt.

MADISON, \LFRED S pages 68, 70. PAUL, FRANK pages 54, 68, 71.
(
'ook i
ook
Creston, Iowa 920 So Leavitt St., Chicago, Ml

VI( \RDLE, PETER F. pages68, 71. RAIL, JOHN W. pages 76, 78.
(
Sergeant 'hauffeur
122 Junction Ave., Corona, X. Y. 9 Billings Ave., Med ford, Mass.

McBRlDE, HENRY B pages93,94. PAVLIK, FRANK pages83,84.

Sergeant (Aviation Mechanician) Private
Centen ilk, Tenn. 7819 Drexel Ave, Chicago, III

McCOLPIN, CARL pages89,90. PETERS, JOSEPH E. pages 93, 94.

Private Private Dt Class

109 E. 35th St., Los Angeles, Calif. 2912 W. Th, mii.s,„i St., Philadelphia, Pa.

VIcELDERRY, VIRGIL J. pages93,9S. PHILLIPS, JOE A. pages68,70.

( ',
'hauffeur ( h >k

349 Mission St., Santa Cruz, Calif. Care Mrs. Lizzie Mann. Princeton, Ky.
McGOVERN, JAMES A. pages83, 85. PHOEBUS, PERCY H. pages 79, 80.

Sergeant 1 st
(
"lass Sergeant 1st Class
78 Bristol Road, West Somerville, Mass. 137 Prospect Ave., Hackettstown, X. J.

MILLER, JOHN P. pages 72. 74. PILGRAM, HEXRY W. pages 79, 80.

Chauffeur Corporal
107 Chestnut Ave., Clifton, Staten Island, X. Y. 414 May Ave., Burlington, Iowa.

MIL LETT, REGINALD C. pages 83, 84. QUINN, XICHOLAS S. pages 76, 78,

Private Sergeant (Aviation Mechanician)

222 Huntington Ave., Boston, Mass 174 Westford Ave., Springfield, Mass.
 W 639TH AERO SQUADRON 125

RANAHAN, JOHN I-"., JR. pages 72, 74. SCHULTZ, LAWRENCE I

pages83,84.
Private 1st Class Private
Islip, Long Island, X. Y. 3519 Ramsey Ave., Fort Wayne, Ind.

RATTAN, THOMAS E. pages 72, 74. SEGAR, JOHN pages 87, 88.
Private 1st Class I 'rivate 1st Class

Anna, Collin County, Texas Wells, Minn.

READ, EVERETT i.M.RAY page 96. SENNOTT, HENRY P. pages 76, 77.

Pri\ ate ( orporal

46 Riverside Drive, New York < ity. 3?< Townsend St., Roxbury, Mass

RECCHIA, SAM pages 86, 87. SHANNOX, WILLIAM J. pages68,70.

I 'rivate 1st (/lass Sergeant
34S E. 104th St., New York City. 5718 Indiana Ave., Chicago, III

REDMAX, GUY W. pages 83, 80. SHERBY, FRANCIS J. pages 72. 74.

Private Chauffeur
127 Chatman Ave., Elkhart, Ind. Care Miss Margaret Rielly, Eddy St., Ware, Mass.

REEDER, ELMER M. pages 93, 95. SHIELDS. 11 \KOLI> E. pages40,97.

Chauffeur Private
Femvick, Mich. Box 72, Oakfield. Maine.

REID, CHESTER page96. SHOVE, HARRY S. pages 72, 74.

Private Private
Montank Ave., Bayside, New York. 10 Centenary St., Binghamton, X. Y.
REIFERT, LAWRENCE pages 79, 80. SLABOM, EARL pages89,90.
Sergeant (Aviation Mechanician) Private 1st Class
R. F. I). No. 3, Curtice, Ohio. Voorhiesville, X. Y.

REYNOLDS, WILLIAM F. pages68,71. SMITH, CHARLES F. pages 68, 69.

Private Private 1st Class

1618 Harland Ave, Kalamazoo, Mich. ^22 Spring St., Reading, Pa.
RHODES, SAMUEL J. page 96. SMITH, THEODORE P. page 97.

Private 1st Class Sergeant

N2 Virginia Park, Detroit, Mich. Bloom si inrg. Pa.

ROBERTS, WILLIAM B. pages 72. 74. SXIDER, WILLI \M

Private Private
962 Lorimer St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Avery Apartments, Los Angeles, Calif.

ROESCH, ALVIN .1 pages89,90. SPARKS, BOYD pages OS, 71.

Private 1st Class Cook

2865 Lincoln St., Ada, Minn. Station Xo. 1, Ashland, Ky.

ROLLO, MORRIS pages 86, 87. STACKHOUSE, ASA M. pages68,69.

Sergeant Private
572 Clinton St., Brooklyn, X. Y. M -estown, Burlington County, X. J.

ROSENHEIM, JAMES E. pages 17, 97. STEEN, ROBERT T. page97.

Private 1st Class Private
42S E. 46th Place, Chicago. 111. Irvington, Newark, X. I

ROSS, SIDNEY X STEHR, HERMAX H. pages 87. 88.

Private Corporal
3 Q 4 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn, X. Y. 1341 University Ave., Madison. W is

SCHENCK, RAY pages 50, 96 STEPHENS, WILLIAM .1. pages 72, 73.

Sergeant Chauffeur
180 So. Plum St., Germantown, Ohio. 3607 Tampa St., Tampa, Fla.

SCHILLER, ARTHUR R. pages 50. 97. STEPHENSOX, LOUIE P. page97

Private Private 1st Class
117 S. 3rd Ave., Wausau, Wis. R. R. Xo. 1. Prescott, Ark.

SCHLOSSER, AUGUST page 97. STICKLER, CHESTER M. pages 90, 92.

Private Corporal
133 Kramer Ave., Payton, Ohio. 114 E. Bertsch St. Lansford, Pa.
126 We 639TH AERO SQUADRON
STOCKWELL, CHELLIS W. pages 7, 87, 88. WAKEFIELD, IRA C. pages 75, 76.
Sergeant Private
Box 98, Athol, Mass. Harrington, Maine.
STOXE, DANIEL E. pages 90, 02, WALSH, ALEXANDER R, pages 89, 90.
Private ( nrporal
R. F. D. Xo. 4, Attleboro, Mass 579 Summit Ave., St. Paid. Minn
SUTTON, THOMAS A pages 93, 94. WARRICK, ELVIN pages 79, 80.
Private I 'rivate
Route No. 3, Falmouth, Ky. 923 East Ave., Montpelier, Ohio.
TAYLOR, THOMAS L. pages 79, SI. WEBSTER, RAY pages 87, 88.
Sergeant 1 st Class Private
Colby, Kans. Humboldt, S. D.
TEMPLE, EARL C. page 97. WEEKS, LEON I. pages 76, 77.
Sergeant (
'hauffeur
Hudson, low a. 220 Bradford St.. Pueblo, Colo.
TERMINIELLO, NICHOLAS pages 7, 68, 70 WEINZIERL, JOHN J. pages 93, 94.
Corporal Sergeant
133 W. 98th St., New York, N. Y. 121 W. 46th St., Bayonne, N. J.

THOMAS, FREDERICK C. pages 72, 73. WEISBLL'M, IRVING B. pages68,70.

Chauffeur 1st Class Sergeant 1st (lass
3 South St., Leominster, Mass. 250 Sumner Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
THOMPSON, WILFORD pages 86, 87. W'ESTBY. LLOYD V. pages 76, 77.
Sergeant Sergeant (Aviation Mechanician)
321 Hamilton St., Royal Oak. Mich. Maddock, N. D.
TRAW, LEE A. page 97. WHITWORTH, HENRY W. pages 83, 85.
Private I hauffeur
Wister, Okla. 45 Tremont St., Meriden, Conn.
TRUSSELL, JAMES W. pages 78, 79. WOOLEY, JAMES pages 71. 72.

Private 1st Class Chauffeur, First Class

( are Star Drilling Mach. Co., Akron, O. 104 33rd St., Milwaukee. Wis.
TYRRELL, PARK H. pages 72, 74. WIDI ,ER, JAY K. pages 76, 78.

Private Sergeant
412 Ashbury St., San Francisco, Calif. R. F. 1). No. 2, Baldwinsville, N. Y.

UMLAUF, ALFRED p'ages79,81. WILLIAMS, THOMAS M. pages 72. 74.

I 'ri\ ate Private
304 E. 30th St., New York, X. Y. 6601 Ellis Ave.. Chicago, 111.

VAN EVERY, RIPLEY pages 83, S3. WITTEBORN, HARRY M. pages 86, 87.
Private 1st Class Sergeant
R. F. D. No. 3, Rupert, Idaho. 455 Concord Ave., New York, N. Y.
VARNEY, EDGAR G. pages 75, 76. WOLFF, ADOLPH A. pages 87, 88
Sergeant 1st Class Private
23 Charles St., Rochester, X. H. 69 Merchant St., Newark, N. J.

YENZKE, GUSTAV pages 79, 81. YOHE, THOMAS F. pages 79, 80

Prh ate Private 1st < "lass

32d E. 35th St., New York, X. Y. 1542 Superior, Cleveland, Ohio.

V'ADDELL, CHARLES F. pages 83, 84. YORK. CALEB L. pages82,83.

Sergeant Sergeant
4016 Parkside Ave., Chicago, ill. Silverwood, Ind.
WAGNER, LeROY F. pages 90. 92. ZEBIAN, GEORGE J. pages 90, 91.
I 'ii\ ate Private
744' i No. 6th St., Allentown, Pa. Second and Philips Sts., Coaldale, Pa.

ZESINGER, WILLIAM R, JI pages 76, 77.

( ui-poral

80S Lincoln Way East. South Bend. Ind

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