ij^,iiiiiiiimmjnit Pass "S S70 Book- . ""5- ^ '^ Cqpiglit}^'^- \ d CL^ COPYRIGHT DKPOSm .a ',v .^' \t)^ .y^ tn^oy^y^ • U.S. ^ -^- Otir SooK 102 AmmiiiiitioitTrttin Copyrtght Applied for 1919 By C. M. BARD OCI.A515887 Mi I4l9iy BeJicafcd fo l-lic lo-¥cJ oi?c0 hack liomc^ who W Yhdr sflcrificce at)d fmfh^ ^avc flic men af fhz fronf cncoura^tmcnl- l-o Jo Hmr Jwl"^, Capt. H. N. Olmstead Four A ^^^ "TZre Shipper If the perusal of this history of Company "A," 102nd Ammunition Train, brings back recollections of the months spent in training in the United States and France as members of the American Expeditionary Forces, recalls to minds the hardships and pleasures shared in common and enables families and friends to gain an insight into the life and activities of the company, then this book has performed its appointed task, even though briefly. From widely separated portions of the United States the government drew upon men to form its great army, and Company "A" shared alike with other organizations in that its enlisted personnel, at the time of embarkation for overseas, was composed of men from the cities, towns and farms, from New York, Texas, Oklahoma and Michigan. Yet such was the common spirit animating all Americans that men from all parts of the country met, coalesced and there was no difference; each and every man became first, last and all the time a soldier of the United States, anxious and willing to do whatever he was called upon to do, ready at all times for any detail, no matter how^ hazardous or irksome, forgetful of self in the furthering of his country's plans. Of such men was this company formed and in that spirit w^as its work accomplished. Given such men as these with such a spirit, no officer com- manding troops could ask for more. The word "discipline" is much mis- understood, but when details were on time, when meals were ready, plentiful and well cooked, when trucks were always running, as far as it was humanly possible to keep them so, when marches, train trips of several days* duration and cross-country auto trips were made with no hitches or disorders and two voyages made across the ocean as though they were common occurrences, when the men were widely scattered in different towns and beyond possibility of constant supervision and all comment was most favorable; then an ides^ may be formed as to the "discipline" of Company "A." In the year and more of existence of the company it has not only been a pleasure but a privilege to have commanded it and now that at last all have been returned to civilian life, it is with a pang of great regret that the realiza- tion is faced that these days of comradeship are ended. Captain F. A., Co. A, 102nd Ammunition Train. ^toSi J'- lumnmum iiimmmin J ■^^HHB^Ssf^ynf I ♦ t T7 ,.,^^Hr cq Six J bvents Oi TVo wa^rs CHAPTER I. "LET'S ENLIST" By Corp. Fred. M. Barnard, Corp. David G. Campbell and Pvt. Archer Church Hardly had the people of the United States realized that war was at hand when over one hundred young men from central New York were enlisted at the Troop "D" Armory in Syracuse in the Remount Detachment, Q. M. C, N. Y. N. G. The officers were: Captain Walter L. Bell, 1st Lieutenant Roy A. Cheney and 2nd Lieutenant Frank McCue. After two weeks of preliminary training at the Armory, the Remount moved to the Syracuse State Fair grounds and there relieved Company "B," 1st N. Y. Infantry. Then began a period of much guard duty and few passes. The organization was quartered in the Women's Hospital building and besides taking over the guarding of the state property, established an out-post at the Solvay station of the Niagara, Ontario and Lockport Power Company. After a month at the Fair Grounds, the organization returned to the Ar- mory in Syracuse — rookies still, but with changed ideas of soldiering. Here the guard duty on the Syracuse lighting plant was taken over, but the Solvay out-post still retained. Nine days of guard with one day relief was the schedule for the next month. About the middle of June, 1917, Captain Bell received orders to recruit the first battalion of the 6th Division Ammunition Train. In a very short time the battalion was recruited to strength — six companies of fifty-five men each — and, on June 30th, the Ammunition Train officially came into existence. Captain Bell was placed in command of the first battalion, receiving his com- mission as Major on July 1 1th. On August 5th, after a period of intensive training in which drills, schools, sky-hooks and bayonet ammunition played a prominent part, the battalion was mustered into Federal service by Capt. Guido Verbeck. On August 1 5th the organization made its initial move to Messina Springs, a short distance out- side the cily. Here the men received typhoid inoculations and were initiated into 'the mysteries of camp life. Ten days had been spent in this camp when, Mcssuia Springs Eioht without warning, the order came to move to New York. Although only twelve hours' notice was given the men w^ere ready early next morning. Upon arriving at the Armory in Syracuse, a final leave of three hours w^as given in which to say good-bye, and at nine o'clock that night the battalion entrained at the New York Central station and, followed by the cheers and farewells of friends and relatives, were off on the first leg of their long journey overseas. After a sleepless night the battalion detrained early on the morning of August 24th at Kings Bridge, New York City. The lunch provided by the Syracuse Red Cross was soon disposed of and the companies were formed pre- paratory to the long hike to camp. This hike never materialized, however. Through the efforts of Major Bell surface cars were procured and the trip was accomplished in short order. Upon arriving at Pelham Bay the battalion joined the remainder of the regiment which was already in camp. Squad tents quickly sprang up and it was not long before most of the men had tried out the bathing beach and Kanes. While at Pelham Bay the 6th Division became the 2 7th Division, U. S. Army. The parade of the 2 7th Division in New York is something that will long be remembered by those who took part. For many it was their first appearance of the kind and this was the case with the upstate battalion of the Ammunition Train or the "Apple Knockers," as they were at that time dub- bed by the members of the second battalion. On September 6th, 1917, the entire Train broke camp and after a stiff hike to City Island, boarded a barge for Jersey City. The trip was made through a bedlam of noise from the screeching whistles of the small river craft and deeper tones of the larger vessels. Debarking in Jersey City the trip was resumed in tourist-sleepers — colored porters and all — and the Train was off for Camp Wadsworth, S. C, where our final training was to be com- pleted. Pelham Bay Nine CHAPTER II. "SO THIS IS DIXIE!" By Corp. Fred M. Barnani, Corp. David G. Campbell and Pvt. Arthur Church. After three days of travel we arrived at Fair Forest, S. C, Sunday morn- ing, September 9th, and upon detraining were informed that the camp was only a short distance away. Then began a hike which seemed miles, along one of the red clay roads so characteristic of the Carolinas. Upon arriving at the site alloted for our camp whatever ideas we may have had concern- ing barracks, company streets, etc., were rudely dissipated. A raess shack situated on the edge of a cotton field was the only suggestion that this might be the place. By noon, however, little remained of the cotton field and shortly afterwards company streets were laid out, tents were pitched and the camp began to take on a military appearance. The first days in Wadsworth were spent for the most part in building drill grounds, ditches, company streets and, in general, making the camp more comfortable. Hikes, close order drill, field work and schools soon found a place in the schedule and in a surprisingly short time the men were hard at w^ork. By this time most of us had conformed to the requirements of G. O. No. 1 and were eligible for passes to Spartanburg, a city about five miles from Camp Wadsworth. For ten cents the trip could be made on the P. & N. railway. Usually, however, the service was too uncertain and many pre- ferred the surer methods of the jitney busses with which the camp abounded. Due to the large number of troops located so near, the city was usually crowded with soldiers, which probably accounts for the fact that few of us experienced the famous "Southern hospitality." However, Spartanburg afforded many pleasures in the way of movies, theatres and restaurants which were open to all for the price. In addition to the drills, the Train was called upon to furnish many details for different purposes. Perhaps the most important of these and the one which will be longest remembered by those who were there, was the "road detail." Rifles were laid aside and for several weeks daily details were called upon to assist the 1 02nd Engineers in the task of rebuilding the famous "Snake Road" connecting Spartanburg with the camp. On October 13th, 1917, the 27th Division was reorganized. This date also marks the beginning of Company "A" for, in the reorganization of the Train, old Truck Companies I and 2 were consolidated, forming "A" Com- pany, 1 02nd Ammunition Train. Lieutenant Cheney, formerly commanding Company 2, was assigned to the company and on October 21st Captain Harold N. Olmstead stood his first formation with us. On Thanksgiving eve "fire call" was heard for the first time by Com- pany "A." Everyone tumbled out of bed in a hurry and armed with all available pails and axes, made the Camp Q. M. on the double, only to find that the fire was under control and that their services were not needed. The return to the company street and bed was very unsatisfactory from a military standpoint. While on the subject of our life in Wadsworth, our Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners deserve mention. On both occasions the cooks worked hard and produced dinners which, if not as good as those at home, were at least better than any others served in camp. Of our Thanksgiving feast only one thing need be said — it was too much. The Christmas dinner, while not as elaborate, was equally filling and most satisfactory. Two barrels of apples received from the Syracuse Auxiliary were enjoyed in the form of pies. In addition to the dinner, Christmas Day was made more realistic by the gifts from the Syracuse Auxiliary and the women of Converse college in Spartan- burg. Ten Winter, Camp W adsivorth About the 1 7th of December, Company "A" received its first trucks, and the Ammunition Train took over the truck work of the division. Twenty- one trucks were turned over by the 1 02nd Supply Train and it was not long after that the wagoners of the company made the acquaintance of the range at Glassy Rock, the camp bakery, the Q. M. and various stables and ware- houses throughout the camp. With the trucks came a change in our usual schedule of drill. Truck details were often sent on trips requiring two or three days and finally it became necessary to detail different companies on detached service with trucks. "A" Company was selected for one of these details, which is de- scribed by Wagoner Herbert E. Erway: The life of the company on wood detail in Grover, N. C. was the life of a kind peculiar to but few army organizations. This fact alone warrants especial mention of the trip. The usually welcome "first call" on the morning of December 30th was heard with a bit of pleasure, for all anticipated the trip. After an early, hurried breakfast, the company, including the kitchen and other baggage, was loaded on eight White cargo trucks and the start was made in high spirits. The route took us through the city of Spartanburg and the villages of Converse, Cowpens. Gaffney and Blacksburg. The varying scenery made the trip most interesting and there was always some excitement at hand. The roads were icy, making fast driving hazardous, and on two bridges a truck broke through the planking, causing much delay, but damage only to the bridge. A hurried stop was made in Gaffney at noon, durmg which we all visited the kitchen truck. Rather slow progress was made during the after- noon, but finallv, after dark we came to a group of lights and were told that we were in Grover. We passed by the lights a short distance , unloaded and, after pitching tents in an open spot, made ourselves as comfortable as pos- sible for the night. On the following morning the bugler overslept, but when we did fall out we found that our camp adjoined a mill yard in the outskirts of a typical Carolina village. Grover is situated on the boundary line of North and South Carolina and on the main line of the Southern railroad. The first couple of davs were spent in making camp and exploring the village, which we found consisted of some eight stores, two churches, a garage, barber shop, saw mill, depot and about fifty houses. Eleven On the third day our work started. "Woods loading" details and "car loading" details were announced and axemen picked. The trucks w^ith their details left camp early in the morning for a point in the mountains about five miles out. The wood had been cut and corded in four-foot lengths where it fell. The axemen got busy and cleared roadways among the stumps and brush and the drivers proved their ability in following them. On the first day our expectations were more than realized, for each truck made six trips to the railroad, where the wood was loaded in box-cars. For a few days following the work varied but little. Our evenings were spent in the tents around the "Sibleys," at the barber shop or in "Kate's." "Kate's" was a general merchandise store run by the owner. Miss Kate Turner. She was of doubtful age, unmarried, and soon proved herself a most agree- able person. The flavoring of the Coca Cola at Kate's was so superior to that in any of the other stores that it soon won her the whole company as patrons and at any time around her stove could be found a group of "O. D.'s." 111 J-roiil <•}' "Kdli's" It was later decided that time could be saved if a camp was made in the woods for the loading details. About twenty men in charge of Sgts. Kirkpatrick and Gere were detailed to establish the camp and soon had them- selves comfortably settled in tents about five miles up in the mountains. As Sergeant Kirkpatrick writes; The plan seemed to work out to a nicety, as it was found that more wood than before could be brought down to the siding. There was plenty of work for all, including the famous "Wood- land Quartette. " The kitchen, under "Cornbread " Kelley and Haynes, soon made a great reputation. It was rumored back in the camp at Grover that the fellows up in the woods were living on the choicest of chow and the topper's office was besieged with applications for the mountain detail. After we had been in the camp for several days, some of the fellows discovered that we were really in the moonshine country. They were positive of this fact upon finding the stills and the next thing was to locate the stuff itself. Several methods were suggested, but finally the moonshiners made Twelve Camp at G rover their appearance and introduced themselves to the crowd. They made sev- eral trips to the camp, but just how the moonshine tasted was never generally known. The work progressed very well. In fact we had such a rush that a traffic cop had to be appointed. Sometimes we had a little difficulty in get- ting the loaded trucks out of the w^oods, but with twenty-five or thirty huskies pushing one of them something had to move. After about ten days a change in the weather made the long haul to the siding impractical and the detail w^as ordered to rejoin the company at Grover. It w^as with some regret that we left "Camp Katz Fur." Many of us then planned for a few days' rest, but another woods was found on good roads only tw^o miles from camp. Here, as before, the trucks were obliged to drive into the w^oods for their loads. Roads were built, corduroyed, rebuilt and bridges erected under the able direction of Corporal Thro. By beginning early in the morning, the trucks could easily enter the w^oods, as the ground was frozen hard enough to hold them up. But before noon the ground invariably thawed and the heavily loaded trucks sank deep in the soft mud, requiring the combined efforts of the whole force to get them out. The w^ork proceeded in this w^ay until the roads finally became impass- able for loaded trucks. During the enforced idleness that followed, many took ad- vantage of the unusually good hunting in the neighborhood. Rabbits and quail abounded and were brought in in large numbers with an occasional possum. Corp. Thro, Manning and Erw^ay proved so adept that they w^ere detailed to bring in game for the company mess. As the train schedule made it possible for the men to arrive in Kings Mountain in the afternoon and return late at night, there were few who failed to visit the movies and mill girls, as well as the famous battle ground near is^a^> T A w ■ \ _ Thirtetn the town. The captain's Ford, as well as hired cars, were busily en- gaged taking men to the town of Shelby, some twelve miles from Grover, where the men enjoyed their first experience in "Southern hospitality." Grover also opened its homes to the company on at least one occasion, when the men attended church in a body and were afterwards taken for dinner at the homes of the residents. Not because the proper spirit or amount of excitement was lacking, but for the interest of the townspeople, the company staged a show in the village schoolhouse. Much talent was unearthed and more developed, the perform- ance savoring somewhat of the vaudeville. Notwithstanding the fact that the weather was far from agreeable when the show^ came off, the house was full and much fun was enjoyed. For a dry town the men were unusually hilarious. However, it was a treat to the townspeople and the proceeds, which amounted to something like one hundred dollars, were turned over to the school. Since there was much good baseball material in the company, a challenge from the Grover team w^as accepted and a most exciting game ensued. Both sides played exceptionally w^ell and the score, nine to four in favor of the "Bohunks." was a surprise to all, especially to those in the company who backed their team in a financial w^ay. Several sham battles w^ere staged in the vicinity of this camp. One in particular, in w^hich the defense and capture of the village w^as the aim, caused much interest to the inhabitants as well as to ourselves. The technicalities which w^ere evolved, however, left the decision of the battle open to public opinion. These happy days continued for six short weeks and when the order came to return to Camp Wadsworth it was received with much regret. We had all made many real friends among the townspeople and the prospects of Camp Wadsworth were far from tempting. On February 16, 1918, we returned to Camp Wadsworth and resumed our work with the trucks. This work was so well performed that when the trucks were turned back to the Supply Train several men from the company were detailed to the divisional transportation officer. At about this time, too, came the much disliked wood details at the Camp Q. M. On March 1st, the 102nd Ammunition Train took over the Q. M. guard and a detail of twelve men was furnished from "A" Company. The men were relieved often and practically every man did his trick, as only expert drivers were excused. Fourteen Early in April our company mascot, "Lattie," presented us with three little mascots. Their first breath was drawn in the midst of Lieut. Cheney's clean laundry. "Shelby, " "Grover " and "Kings Mountain * provided much amusement for the company and the men were somewhat disappointed in not being able to take the pups along overseas. Evidently "Lattie" was a firm believer in the old saying that "Variety is the spice of life," for the pups were all different breeds. For some time Lieut. Cheney had been on detached duty and on May 1 3th he was commissioned Captain and permanently assigned to headquarters staff as Personnel Officer. It was with much regret that those of us who had been with him since entering the service saw him leave the company. Rumor now had us moving in May and all agreed that the time for departure was approaching. Late in April the company was put under quar- antine for scarlet fever. Privates Church and O'Neill, the offending parties were sent to the base hospital. The company, not being used to restriction to the company street, found many and varied forms of amusement. Base- ball, medicine ball, quoits and midnight frolics with our beloved mess sergeant passed away the time. After ten days of confinement the quarantine was removed, much to our relief. On April 9th, the vacancy of a second lieutenantcy in the company was filled when Lieutenant Homer K. Sweet, up until that time a sergeant in head- quarters, received his commission and was assigned to the company. With the filling up of vacancies by men drawn from recruit detachments the moving rumors gained substance. As "A ' Company needed men to bring us up to war strength, our first quota was drawn from the recruits sent down from Fort Slocum. From Private Samuel Newman's account of the life in that station it can be believed that their experiences there were anything but pleasant. Details, examinations and drills followed in endless succession until they thought, as probably all recruits are lead to believe, that war had been well defined by Sherman. The non-coms, in charge of them were the usual type of recruit drill masters and were especially disliked. However, about five hundred of them were soon ordered to Camp Wads- worth and were distributed among the various units. The men picked for "A " Company were a fine bunch and soon fraternized with the older men. By this time several units of the division were already on their way over- seas and the certainty that we were soon to leave the camp which had been our home for nine long months was an added incentive for us to undergo the various physical and equipment inspections necessary before our departure. After several false reports as to the day of moving, destination, etc., the Train was surprised one morning by an order to move, which was carried out. Carrying full packs, we marched out over the same old red clay road by which we had entered nine months before for a "few weeks* training." We were leaving for "over there," and that fact alone was enough to put the men in the best of spirits. With hearts much lighter than our packs we boarded the train about noon May 1 8th and started on our last move in the States. Fifteen ^x., \ ) (Jatc to Officers' Quarters Camp IVadszvorth "THE APPLE KNOCKERS" {NoU:~AfUr this Limerick ..as rea, to Major P. E. Na.ie He calie, U ^'The Apple Knockers' Re.e.^e.-) In that far off dreamy country Where the "Apple Knockers" are. Many a blue-eyed lassie Hooks her wagon to a star. And it's not for love of apples That she often sighs a sigh. But it's for a gallant lover With a will to do or die. So when you knock the "Apple Knockers" Just remember one and all. Not all the country's patriots Are the "friends of Tammany Hall." — Lieut. H. K. Sweet. Sixteen CHAPTER III. "LET'S GO" By Wagoner George E. ' Kelley. When we climbed off the train at Camp Stuart, marched up to those new barracks with their spring cots and looked out through the screened windows towards the gate where we could see street cars, autos and part of the beau- tiful city of Newport News, we thought that we had reached a soldier's para- dise. We had, all right — if we had not been informed immediately that we were quarantined to our quarters. But it was not all as harsh as it sounds, for the restrictions made us appre- ciate all the more the opportunities to get away from the camp on those hardening hikes along the shore-road and past the shipyards under the blazing sun. Who w^ill forget those hikes? "Only the weary know^ the sweetness of rest " and how^ we did rest, too, on those summer nights with the sea breeze w^histling through the open window^s. It w^as here that the company received its final quota of men which was to bring it to w^ar strength for service overseas. "A* Company w^as fortunate in receiving a number of fine men who were with the company from that time until the end of our service. Of their first experiences Private Edward Adamson writes: Now, while they are w^riting history Of the war on land and foam, I would like to mention "Custer," Where so oft my thoughts do roam. That camp way back in Michigan Where they made us hard as bricks And taught us the one great lesson — "No matter what happens — no kicks!" Now^, after three w^eeks of training — All this time we had one sore arm — We w^ere longing for just one more day Back on the old man's farm. Some said we were going overseas, While others had a doubt; But while we were debating We started off — due south. Just then there came an order For us to move somew^here; And there were lots of rumors Floating in the air. Our train had fourteen coaches; Each one could have a seat. We thought if this w^as soldiering We'd sw^ear it couldn't be beat. Seventeen We crossed the states of Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee; Over the hills and valleys; And soon in the south were we. The scenery was so beautiful That 'twas easy to understand Why our people are a mixture From every foreign land. Next came the great big cotton fields That we'd read so nauch about. All those things were new to us All along that route. But soon our train came to a stop. We had landed at — somewhere; So I'll leave it up to Rickwalt To tell what happened there. Now, it's been put up to me to tell What happened in the south: Well, we found it all so pleasant And the officers so kind. That we sent our deepest sympathy To the boys we'd left behind. They called this place Camp Gordon; 'Twas a pretty place to see. And much of the work we had to do Was done beneath the trees. Some of this work consisted Of learning about a pack; They showed us how to roll it And strap it on our back. They hiked us many miles each day Beneath a southern sun. And taught us many tricks to play So we could fool the Hun. But the Boche was many miles away; Now we must get to France If we would put those tricks to use And make the Kaiser dance, But one day there came a call — We welcomed their decision — For next day we were on our way To the Twenty-seventh Division. Now, luck was surely with us; Our hopes were not in vain. They landed us at Newport News In the Ammunition Train. Eighteen Camp Stuart Camp Stuart afforded us fine accommodations and excellent food, but it also afforded full sway of the inspecting officers and drill masters, so that in three weeks we w^ere glad to make our packs and fall into line for the hike to the boat. The big day we had dreamed of had come at last. We w^ere on our way to the boat which w^ould take us aw^ay forever, we hoped, from all that is connected with an embarkation camp. We even forgave all those inspecting officers and were bidding goodbye to the States when w^e noticed that something was wrong at the head of the column. There w^as. And if w^e are ever asked what command w^e hate the worst, it w^ill be the one we heard then, "Column left — column left!" It came like a kick in the face that we should go back to those barracks, but we did, and for nine long days dropped back into the old routine. June 1 4th came. We started off on that eventful day at the early hour of three-thirty, and, after a breakfast in the dark, a hurried fastening of packs and a hasty line-up, we were off in the still early hours of the dawn for our trip "over there." At eight-thirty we were glad to walk up the gang plank of H. M. S. "Czar" and get our overseas equipment off our shoulders) and into our bunks in that bottom part of the ship called "Section K — aft." A sea voyage is sure to be a novel affair to any landsman and we knew we had several sensations in store for us. How^ever, that didn't lessen our interest in the new craft and before she had finished taking on cargo we had been over her from stem to stern. We were free to stand by the rail and watch the space w^iden betw^een the pier and the "Czar" as the little tug boats pulled her out into the stream, w^here she lay still for the night. It w^as a splendid night, too, out there on the w^ater with a light w^ind blow^ing in from the ocean, a sky full of stars and a deck full of mattresses bearing so many eager young Americans almost too anxious to sleep. The best w^e can say of the "Czar," according to Pvt. John J. Clark, is that w^e had comparative freedom on the boat. At mess time w^e w^ere free either to eat or not to eat the "foods" served for our meals. We were all glad of that liberty and feel uncertain of the results had w^e been obliged to partake of those original dishes of ancient meats. Clark writes: Three times a day we trouped down to the mess hall, only to have a perfectly good appe- tite ruined by the steward who presided over the "Czar's" scullery. The meals were just the sort we w^ould have enjoyed w^atching the Kaiser down. The one fact that kept us from being escorted off the "Czar" in wooden kimonas was that there w^as a canteen aboard. The wares of this establishment w^ere very reasonable. Even Carnegie or Vanderbilt could have afforded to purchase a bar of chocolate or a can of sardines at this cut-throat bazaar. The morning of the 1 5th was the beginning of another one of these balmy June days and just made us feel like going somewhere. So, when the engine bell clanged and the boat began to quiver and start on its slow, winding course down the bay, we knew we were on our way and were happy. Land receeded slowly from sight and except for the four other transports, the "Princess Matoika," "Wilhelmina," "DeKalb," and "Dante Aigrette," a cruis- er, a destroyer, a seaplane and several sub-chasers, we had only the open expanse of sea to attract our attention. But even this gazing had its charms for us, and way into the night and again early in the morning, the ship's rails Nineteen ■were solid lines of olive drab. Everyone seemed under the spell of the ocean and just at the height of our fascination, the most unearthly noise, beginning with the screech of the siren of the "Princess Matoika" and taken up by the sirens of all the others, rent the air with that combination of sounds that makes one's blood run cold. It was a danger warning. Some saw a peri- scope; more of us didn't. But almost before that siren chorus had died down, the reports of the bow^ and stern guns came from all sides and the transports scattered from the spot where the shells were hitting. It was great to watch the flashes of the guns, see the smoke at the mouths of the pieces, the splashes in the water and then hear the thunder as gun after gun spit at the elusive foe. Never did our enthusiasm rise higher than at just this point of the battle when a destroyer, which had been way forward, turned short around and under full speed passed our boat only a few rods off our port side. And even as she rolled with the waves and rushed on with the speed of an express train, we could see her tiny decks cleared for action, with the gunners at their places waiting for the word to begin their work. We couldn't suppress a shout or two and from all along our rail came a bedlam of cheers of which "Give 'em hell " was most notice- able. Every red-blooded American on the boat was so interested in that short battle and in watching the gigantic upheavals of water caused by the depth bombs or in trying to sight a periscope that all thoughts of personal danger were out of mind. The worst of it all was that it was too short, as the report suggests, "Three subs, sighted, twelve shots fired, three depth bombs dropped, and two subs, sunk." Anyway, it gave us something to discuss until the follow- ing morning, when we were joined by eight more transports, another cruiser and one more destroyer. The chasers left us soon after and one cruiser and one destroyer continued with the convoy as a permanent escort. Twenty Day after day of fair weather added much to the trip, but even with such interruptions as target practice, a concert or two in the officers' dining- room and cases of books from the Y. M. C. A., we began to tire of the ocean's vastness, of watching jumping porpoises, flying fish and spouting whales, and were glad when we were met by more escort ships and were told that on the morrow we w^ould see the shores of France. The prediction proved correct, for on the following morning, the thir- teenth day of our voyage, we could see a break in the skyline. "Just a bit of heaven" expresses our first impression of that beautifully green country, which stretched away from the rugged shores and as the wonderful vista came out to meet us we were so under its spell that the slow-down clang of the ship's bell seemed sacrilegious. The vibration of the boat ceased and the huge craft took its place in the single file procession which appeared to be mysteriously propelled along the glassy surface of that long channel lead- ing in to the harbor of Brest. The rocky cliffs rose higher and higher and were topped by wireless towers and lighthouses. Huge stone walls, perhaps dating back to the days of medieval conquest, massive tunnels of stone which served as communicat- ing trenches between the enormous defenses, and those winding roads lead- ing up from the water's edge, supported by long stretches of concrete walls, were altogether new^ to us. So much masonry crow^ded into so small a space as those precipitous slopes afforded seemed beyond the patience of man to build. But w^e had still another surprise as we rounded the last bend of the channel and found the city of Brest before us, built much like an ampi- theater, each street a tier connected by other streets zig-zagging up and away from the water front. m^\^ Twenty-one Conz'oy Entering Brest Harbor. The harbor was secure from the wind and w^aves, but was so shallow that our deep w^ater transports were obliged to drop anchor some distance from the piers and wait for smaller freight boats to relieve them of their cargo of soldiers and supplies. It could be expected that w^e were all anxious to be the first ashore, but there w^as no cause for anxiety, for the w^hole human cargo of the "Czar," except the unloading detail, was shifted down the sway- ing gang plank into the small lighter until that craft looked like a khaki pyramid floating on the water. At seven in the evening, June 2 7th, under full packs, w^e w^ere pounding our shoes on the cobblestone pavements, going up through the city to the summit and then out into the country, w^hich opened up before us in a new^ and different scene of regular shaped fields of w^ell cared for crops, separated from each other by high walls topped by hedges. The country looked so prolific that several exclaimed, "No w^onder the Kaiser wants France." We were in high spirits on the hike through the quaint city, greeted by the children's idea of our national anthem, "Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here," but in the country we soon tired of the mile after mile and were greatly pleased when w^e saw a large w^alled camp at the end of a by-road w^e had entered. "Pontanezan Barracks," it read on the arch above the high gate, through w^hich we could see barracks of Napoleon's time. It looked good to us, for it meant that we could drop the heavy packs from our backs and cool off. But "Column left! Column left!" sent us back from the gate on to the main road, w^here for a mile or more w^e stumbled along and at last stag- gered through a gateway and into a level field surrounded by built-up mounds of mother earth covered with briar bushes. It was still broad daylight when, at nine-thirty, we finished pitching our pup tents and lay down on the hard ground to welcome sleep that w^ould make us forget that w^e had had no supper. Daylight came again about four in the morning, but most of us didn't see it until the middle of the forenoon, when we responded to the cook's call and fell into line for our first meal in France. Only black coffee, bread and bacon — but these three items were each a treat to us at our stage of hunger. At breakfast we were warned against the drinking water of France and it was quite natural that within an hour or so members of the company were to be seen in groups of two or three along any roads leading from the camp Twenty two Pup Tents at Brest armed with French dictionaries — and canteens. They never had far to travel, for every farmhouse had its wine cellar and was always ready to supply the American's need. About three days of this visiting and we were satisfied to make our packs one night before dark preparatory to the move before morning. Some of the boys built fires and gathered around and sang all the old camp-fire songs that could be remembered. Sleep was out of the question. The few who tried it on the cold ground soon returned to the fire, shivering and crowd- ing in toward the heat. The "topper's" w^histle blew^ about three in the morn- ing and by daylight we were again in Brest climbing aboard the much her- alded "40 hommes 8 cheveux." Little we missed of the many interesting scenes of this railway trip. We knew that France was beautiful, but we saw it then in its prime. About the time we w^ould tire of w^atching the miles and miles of country slip by, the train would pull into one of the big coast cities and give us a change from the monotony. St. Nazaire, La Rochelle, Nantes and Bordeaux were passed enroute. At each of these cities w^e saw^ soldiers and sailors of enough dif- ferent nations to make us feel that Uncle Sam was only a junior partner in the world war. It w^ould be unfair to the French railway system not to mention the well constructed and uniform bridges which eliminated the many grade crossings and the w^onderful road-bed along the entire route. We w^ere impressed, too, by the number of big U. S. A. locomotives w^hich sw^elled the traffic in the fright yards. On the afternoon of the second day of our trip w^e arrived at Bonneau, the nearest station to Camp de Souge, our destination. Tzventv three WHERE WE LIVED When first we enlisted. Our services to give, We never thought of the places A soldier could live. First we lived in the Armory; Not long did w^e stay. For the dust was so bad We had to bathe tw^ice a day. We lived in tents Made for just eight men. But, gee!! it w^as crow^ded When they packed in ten. We lived in sleepers For three days and nights; But that wasn't bad. For we saw all the sights. We lived in barracks With spring beds and showers; And here we were quarantined For six hundred hours. We lived on a transport With an English crew. Those two weeks of misery Made all of us feel blue. We lived in box cars And slept on our knees: '"40 Hommes — 8 Cheveux," Is the w^ay overseas. We lived with French people, And used their best bed. They treated us "tres bien " Is what we all said. The next day was different — We slept in a truck. And everything was lovely 'Til the old Quad got stuck. We lived in French barracks Without any floor, With millions of flies And cooties galore. We lived in pup tents; We thought we would freeze. To get inside We crawled on our knees. We lived in dug-outs In company with rats. Some of them we know Were bigger than cats. We lived in the open, With mud knee deep; With everything wet — Even then we could sleep. We lived in stables. And that is no joke; Before night w^as over We thought we would croak. We lived in barns With plenty of coots. Next morning the fellows Were reading some beauts. We lived in billets And slept on the floor; But what's that to soldiers Returning from w^ar? We lived in hotels While over in France, But it w^as quite seldom We got such a chance. — Corporal L. E. Crane, Bonchamp, France Trventy-four CHAPTER IV. "TRAINING AND TRACKING" By Wagoner George E. Kelley It was with no small amount of anticipation that w^e looked forward to the camp in w^hich w^e w^ere to complete the last lap of our training and w^hich w^as to be the last stop in our long journey to the front. Of our arrival in Camp de Souge, Pvt. Roy Dale writes: "The camp w^as situated about four miles from Bonneau and by the time w^e had de- trained darkness had overtaken us. A long and tiresome hike soon began. During our first stop for rest, a couple of soldiers passing on horseback in- formed us that the camp was just around the corner, but neglected to state just how far w^e were from that corner. However, w^e found that it was about a mile and a half, and upon reaching this point we found, much to our dis- may, that vv^e were then only about half w^ay to our destination. Another mile or so found us in what w^as to be our home for the remainder of our training period — single story French barracks situated in the further corner of the camp. At midnight our beds were made on the soft concrete floor. This bothered us but little, however, for the jagged peaks of the Alpines w^ould have seemed comfortable to us that night." "Owing to the fatigue caused by the long ride and subsequent hike," writes Wagoner Benjamin Reynolds, "reveille w^as called off for the first morning. When we did fall out, about the middle of the forenoon, we went outside to look things over. "The first impression w^e received of Camp de Souge w^as far from fav- orable. As far as one could see there was nothing but low^, red-tiled bar- racks and sand. It w^as indeed a miniature Sahara. Along the far edges of the camp site could be seen a fringe of forest which later proved to be the curse of our existence. A huge sausage balloon riding lazily on the breeze off to one side of the camp added the only touch of interest to an otherwise discouraging scene. "But as this was to be our home for the next several w^eeks, wre settled down to make the best of it. We looked upon the sand in the light that 'there is no great loss without some small gain,' since it afforded a very poor drill ground upon which to do 'squads east and west.' "Our training at first consisted mainly of instruction in the use of gas masks and each morning w^e w^ere given a lecture on the different kinds of gases, their action and the different methods by w^hich they w^ere projected. Following this came an hour or so of running races, playing leap-frog, and relaying messages with the mask adjusted. The morning drill period usually concluded with a hike of several kilometers. The afternoons w^ere taken up w^ith classes in French and schools in the care and operation of motor trucks. "The boys soon found that there was a group of cafes located just out- side the entrance of the camp and every evening a majority of the company might be found there cultivating the acquaintance of those famous tw^ins, *Vin Blanc' and 'Vin Rouge.' However, as everyone w^ithout a special pass was required to be within the camp limits by 8:30, very few w^ere out late at night. Call to quarters' sounded at 9:15, so everyone was assured of a good night's rest. "The Y. M. C. A. had several good buildings located in different parts of the camp and the nearest one to us was but a few minutes' walk from the barracks. The facilities and entertainments to be found there were greatly appreciated by the boys in the company. Tiventy-fivc Mess at Camp dc Souge "Our drill schedule continued for two or three weeks until the 52nd F. A. Brigade, of which our regiment was a part, took up range work. At that time we took over the work of hauling ammunition from the rail head at Bonneau to the various ranges and also furnished details of men to watch for and extinguish fires which might be started on the range by exploding shells." Early in August several officers were attached to the Train to fill up vacancies among the officers. We were fortunate in having 1 st Lieutenant Albert C. Donovan assigned to "A" Company on August 7th. Lieutenant Donovan had already served more than six months in France and through his experiences was able to give much information and instruction which proved invaluable to us later when we reached the front. Sixty men from the Train, including fifteen from "A" Company, left about this time for St. Nazaire, a seaport some 250 miles from Camp de Souge, to drive back the trucks to be used in supplying the artillery with ammunition. This detail was a welcome change from the monotony of camp life and afforded an unusual opportunity to see the country. Another duty assigned to the Train at this time was the erection of targets on the range. To the uninitiated this may sound like a very simple task. To the men detailed on this work it was anything but that. At about 12:30 P. M. daily, the men assigned to the range detail (this usually required every available man in the company), blue denimed and armed with picks, shovels, mattocks, axes and other menial w^eapons, lined up and started for the range. It was about four kilometers out and six back. At least the dis- tance seemed to have increased that much on the return trip. About half the distance w^as fairly good traveling, but the remainder w^as just plain dust — the meanest, dirtiest, blackest dust imaginable. Three hundred men marching in this dust raised a cloud that made a London fog look like a plate glass w^indow^, so that by the time we had reached the scene of our labors our ears and nostrils w^ere filled, our eyes smarted so we could hardly see and enough of the dust had found its w^ay into our mouths to keep us chewing dirt for the rest of the day. Our w^ork on reaching the range w^as to erect a v/all of earth about four feet high and tw^o feet thick in a zig-zag direction for a distance of about half a mile. This represented a trench parapet w^hich w^as the object of the artillery fire. It was now August and the heat was intense. We would labor faithfully (?) in the oppressive heat all the afternoon and then plod our weary way back through the sand to camp, looking and feeling like a gang of coal heavers. When we reached camp tired, dirty and thirsty, we would slip out Twenty-six of our blue jeans and rush out to wash up, only to find the water shut off. The things we called that water system at such a time hardly bear mentioning here. At night and in the following forenoon the artillerymen seemed to take a fiendish delight in blowing our laboriously constructed wall to pieces. And the next afternoon we had the job to do over again. These range details covered a period of about ten days, but when they ceased an even harder job confronted us. This was fighting forest fires. As there had been practically no rain since we had reached camp, every- thing was as dry as tinder and it seemed as if every forest in the vicinity took fire simultaneously. This required details which not only took every available man in the company but usually every man in the regiment and once or twice every available man in the brigade. Often were we aroused from our pleasant dreams at 2 A. M. by the Top Sergeant's command, "Every man out for fire detail." Tumbling out of our bunks, we donned whatever clothing was available and hastening out clambered into the trucks waiting to carry us to the scene of the conflagration — perhaps six or seven kilometers distant. Here we battled with the flames until perhaps noon the next day. For a period of three weeks or more it seemed that there was always a fire burning within sight of camp. In fact, the fires became so prevalent that it became necessary for a number of men to be detailed each day to hold them- selves in readiness to respond to the call which was almost sure to come, and hardly a day passed that their services were not needed. On August 2 1 st, much to our dismay, an order came through, assigning Captain Olmstead to another branch of the service and relieving him from duty as commanding officer of Company "A." It was with a great deal of regret that we saw him go. The time when we were to leave for the front was rapidly approaching and we realized that we had lost much in the man whom we had come to rely upon almost as a father. We had hardly had time to recover from this feeling of loss when, much to our surprise and pleasure, the Captain reappeared before the company at retreat on the eve- ning of August 2 7th. The company was at attention when the "Skipper' arrived and it was with a strong effort that they restrained themselves from a cheer before being dismissed. Trucks al de Songe Twentv-seven During our stay in De Souge, Bordeaux, about twelve miles from camp, proved a great attraction to the boys. All were anxious to visit a real French city and passes were eagerly sought. The fare by taxi amounted to some sixty francs, or about twelve dollars in American money. However, trans- portation was provided every Saturday and Sunday for a limited number of the company. When one of us was told that he was eligible for a pass to Bordeaux he would attire himself in his best suit of O. D.'s, borrow a few hundred extra francs and, armed with a pass, would climb into a quad truck bent on getting a good look at the old city. Bordeaux is distinctly French in appearance, with its narrow, stone paved streets and narrower sidewalks. The main street, somewhat wider than the rest, well sprinkled with patrons of the out-door cafes with which the city abounds, and comparatively low three or four-story buildings present themselves in striking contrast to the higher structures of our larger American cities. M. P.'s were posted throughout the city and the man on pass who failed to observe the many rules of conduct soon found himself in difficulties. The efficiency of these M. P.'s can be vouched for by several in the company who carried second class passes some time after their trip to the city. The trucks always started back on the return trip to camp promptly at 9 o'clock and it behooved those who wished to return on time to be at the parking place at that hour. Txventy-eight One more incident will finish the story of our sojourn in Camp de Souge. One morning shortly before we left, the com- pany carrying light packs and sufficient rations for dinner went on an all-day hike. Finding a pleasant spot near the village of St. Medard, about six kilo- meters from camp, we unslung our packs and proceeded to enjoy ourselves. After resting a while, small fires were built and _i p-. •, our dinners were prepared. No meal in camp ever tasted better and it was fit- tingly topped off with fruit purchased by the officers from a vendor w^ho appeared on the scene at an opportune moment. After dinner we lounged about or took advantage of the opportunities offered for a swim. About six o'clock we again shouldered our packs and the hike back to camp completed the most enjoyable day we had spent since coming to France. It w^as now after the first of September and rumors that w^e were soon to leave for the front w^ere ever prevalent. We w^ere all more than anxious to get away from de Souge with its everlasting fire details and sand, and impatiently waited for the order to come for us to pack up. We were indeed a happy crowd when the order was received on the afternoon of Friday, September 6th, to prepare to move the following day. It was rather late when the barracks quieted down that night, but all were up before first call the next morning and were ready to go w^hen the command w^as given to fall in for roll call. It w^as with little regret that we bade Camp de Souge good- bye as we rolled dow^n the road past the artillery quarters and out through the gate, each truck piled high with its cargo of men and baggage. Of our trip overland to the front Private Jack Burrows writes: As our company led the long train of trucks on the first morning of the trip w^e w^ere the first to receive the honors rendered by the people along the route. As w^e passed through Martignas into Bordeaux, we w^ere greeted by the people w^ith a great deal of cheering and much w^aving of handker- chiefs and flags. Many of us may have felt a bit of regret on leaving the old city where we had found so much enjoyment, but that feeling was soon over- come when we realized that at last we were on our way to the front. Our first stop was made just outside Bordeaux, where we waited for the rest of the Train to come up. After traveling about one hundred and eight kilometers through a very beautiful country and over perfect roads w^e arrived in Barbezieux, w^here w^e spent our first night. The trucks were parked in a large square in the center of the town where the kitchens were soon set up. After mess we lined up and received our billet tickets and then set out to locate the quarters assigned to us. These we found to be the nearest thing to home w^e had yet experi- enced. With no M. P.'s in the town, the cafes probably did a larger business that night than they had known before in a month. With an early start sched- uled for next morning, however, an early hour found most of us taking full advantage of the beds placed at our disposal. At seven the next morning we were again on our way, this time bringing up the rear of the train. The country was at its best and far exceeded our opinions of the much praised beauty of southern France. The fields, a beauti- ful shade of green, rolled away from the roads into hills and farther away into mountains, finally losing themselves in the distant horizon. The houses and farms, very ancient and picturesque, showed signs of little improvement or change since the time of their construction, perhaps hundreds of years Twenty-nine On tlir Ti'Kv /(' the Front. before. Here and there along the roads could be seen beautiful old chateaux surrounded by charming green lawns broken only by the long winding drives leading up from the main highw^ay. About one hundred and two kilometers of this beautiful country was covered that day and at about 4:30 that after- noon we halted in Couhe Verac for the night. It was here that we had our first touch of the rain which was to make the remainder of the trip so un- comfortable. That night we were billeted in a large barn in the rear of the leading hotel, but as there was plenty of straw available, vs^e were able to make our- selves quite comfortable. However, those who were able to speak French found no difficulty in obtaining more comfortable quarters. A guard was established shortly after our arrival and as no one was allowed on the streets af- ter nine o'clock the men turned in early. It w^as still raining w^hen after our usual delightful breakfast of corned w^illy and hardtack we set out on the morning of the third day. With truck covers tightly drawn to keep out the rain w^e had little opportunity to observe the country through which we w^ere passing. Several larger towns lay along the day's route and in all of these the townspeople greeted us w^ith cheers and w^aving handkerchiefs. Everyone's eyes were open for the pretty girls and if one of them waved or threw^ a kiss every man claimed it as meant for him. Late in the afternoon we arrived at Mont Bazon, where w^e billeted for the night — some in a large barn and others in the town hall. An even stricter guard was established than before and the men w^ere obliged to curtail their pleasures that night. The rain continued all night and the outlook for the next day was anything but bright. Early in the morning of the fourth day we passed through the outskirts of the city of Tours. Everyone had heard much of the city which had for some time been the headquar- ters for the American forces and everyone hoped that w^e might pass through some point near enough for a glimpse of some of the higher officials. Although we took a round- about route we were not dis- appointed in not seeing more of the city for the suburbs proved very attractive. The houses were quite modern and presented a strik- ing contrast to the cottages w^hich w^e had passed along the route. On the outskirts of the city we passed along the foot of a rocky cliff w^hich was honey- combed with caves and dwellings of all descriptions, which presented some- thing very new^ and unique in architecture to us. From Tours our course lay along the River Loire which with its scenery added the finishing touch to the beautiful country. At noon a stop was made in Blois where we were allowed forty minutes for dinner. The rain had ceased and the sun was shining once more when we resumed the trip. Early in the afternoon we reached the city of Orleans w^here we stopped until the morning of the second day. Thirtv Orleans will long be remembered by the men, for with almost no restric- tions on our liberties our stay was most enjoyable. The city, with about one hundred thousand inhabitants, is typically French, with its narrow cobble pavements and sidewalk cafes. In fact, it was Paris on a small scale to us. And if there were those in the company who failed to find enjoyment during our stay there it was not due to the lack of opportunity or hospitality on the part of the inhabitants. It was there also that we met several American soldiers convalescing from wounds and heard with much interest their stories of the front and the action they had seen. Much might be said of our stay in the city; however, it is sufficient that it will long be remembered by all who were there. On the morning of the sixth day we again started off on our long journey to the front, with some regret at leaving the beautiful city of Orleans behind. And this feeling increased when the townspeople turned out in force to bid us goodbye and wish us luck. We traveled about one hundred and twenty kilometers that day and passing through Montagis arrived at Sens about four in the afternoon. Here we were assigned to barracks for the night. As the city boasted several good hotels and restaurants, the men found little diffi- culty in satisfying their wants. It was late that night when the barracks quieted down, for the men were beginning to realize that these days of pleasure would soon be over and with this realization came the determination to enjoy them to their fullest extent. About one hundred and twenty-eight kilometers had been covered on the seventh day when a stop was made for the night at Lignol. Here we were quartered in a barn which all agreed was far less comfortable than the good billets which we had hitherto enjoyed. As the town was quite small and not far distant from the war zone there was very little to do and most of us sought our blankets at an early hour. On the eighth day of our trip we arrived in Bar-le-Duc, where for the first time w^e saw the ravages of war in the results of several successful air raids made some time before by the Germans. No lights were shown in the city after dark and this brought home strongly to us the realization that we would soon be at the front. We were quartered in barracks on the outskirts of the city that night and before being dismissed were warned against traveling around the streets after dark. It was said that the city was full of spies who would stop at nothing to obtain an American uniform and such information as we might be able to give. The ninth day, Sunday, w^as spent in the city and most of the day was taken up in cleaning equipment. We w^ere allow^ed to w^ander about the street until nine o'clock that night w^hen w^e were ordered to report to the trucks. At tw^elve o'clock came the order to move and w^e w^ere off on the last few miles to the front. '^'^^rm^^^^^pm^^^^ Thirty-one CHAPTER V. "LET THERE BE NO LIGHT!" By Lieutenant .^. C. Doiioz'aii The last leg of our trip overland, made from Bar-le-Duc on a clear moonlit night, brought us, after a thirty kilometer ride, into the war zone to our camp site in the Bois de Nixeville, about eight kilometers south of Verdun. During the latter part of our trip we could see the "archies" firing at the enemy's bombing planes and the bright streaks from the allied search- lights as they tried to spot the raiders. Daylight found us just entering the woods with our trucks lined up out- side in plain view of enemy aviators. We had not then learned the necessity of camouflage. "Jerry" was soon overhead and with his long range cameras took our address. After some difficulty we found the barracks assigned to us and were just getting settled when, late in the afternoon, we were ordered to move. And a lucky move it was for "Jerry" was back that night with a flock of bombs and sprinkled them freely all over our previous camp site and dropped more plenty close to our new camp only a kilometer or two from there. Our first night was a "darb." We were all dead tired and sleeping soundly when an explosion like the end of the world brought us to our feet. A goodly sized can of high explosive had landed just outside our camp. Once awake we could hear the drone of the raiders' motors just overhead; and we all stood around, open-mouthed, our hearts beating double time, waiting for the next one to land in our midst and close "pronto" the history of the company and motor battalion as well. However, that one never landed or this story wouldn't have been written, but they dropped all around us — some big and some small — too close for our comfort. And in the midst of it someone hearing an anti-aircraft dud hit Mother Earth nearby yelled "Gas!" I will pass mercifully over this incident; the wild scramble for long for- gotten gas masks that were in the trucks, under baggage and everywhere but where they should be; each one trying to hold his breath according to instructions and ask where his mask was at the same time; the interminable time it took to adjust them and pass the word along; all this has left an indelible impression on our minds. Lieutenant Sweet, regimental gas officer, soon discovered that there was no gas and ordered the masks removed, much to our relief. Presently, when all was quiet and all were sleeping soundly again, some nut, his mind still laboring with the gas idea even in his sleep, gave the alarm again. Again the wild scramble for gas masks — this time in a more strategic position. And who will say how many of us, for just one fleeting moment, thought that if this was the war we had come three thousand miles to fight, it were better to leave the mask off and end it once for all. But this too was a false alarm and if any there were who finally concluded to end his troubles in the above fashion he was doomed to disappointment. Altogether it was some party, especially for "first nighters." The raid brought home the question of protection against future raids and forthwith we began frantically to dig trenches which would offer some measure of protection — at least more than the pup tents in which we lived. As long as we stayed in this camp, which was only a few days, we kept at this job, spurred on by recollections of past performances. The second night began the work for which we had come — the hauling of ammunition to the batteries, which were already in position, in prepara- tion for the great drive we knew was coming in the near future. This work was all done at night in order to screen our movements from the enemy as much as possible. We quickly became accustomed to night driving, without TInrtv-two lights, finding our way by maps, working through shell fire and worming our way through innumerable traffic jams. Bawling out the French drivers who habitually blocked the roads soon became a fine art. A few days after the bombing party we moved again, this time only a few hundred yards away to Bois de Sartelles. Here again we lived in pup tents and dug trenches, w^orked nights and splashed round in the mud days. It rained constantly during the day and cleared off habitually at night, bright and starry, with moon and all, inviting "Jerry" over with his cargoes of H. E., and he came every night thereby breaking up our much needed sleep. Every available truck was out each night with a large detail of men and nightly trips to the batteries, some of them more or less exciting, became part of our regular duties. Our stay in the Bois de Sartelles w^as also only a matter of a few days. From there we moved across the valley to the Bois de Ville, opposite the village of Baleycourt. Here again the mud was knee deep and slippery and the trucks navigated into the roads with difficulty. But we had barracks and sheds to protect us after a fashion from the perpetual rain and as this camp was to be more or less permanent we fought the mud and rain and tried to be comfortable. It was from this camp that we did most of our work preparatory to the big drive which began about midnight of September 26th. We moved whole batteries, guns and all to new^ positions and some of these positions w^ere perilously near the front line. It was from here that we carried ammunition to the advanced positions and established new dumps near them. This work was always carried on at night without lights and over roads slippery with mud and so jammed with traffic — motor, horse and foot — that it was an all night's job to get to Chattancourt dump and back, a trip of perhaps twenty kilometers. With us almost nightly was "Jerry" with his ash cans of H. E., coming always close enough to make us a bit nervous but always failing to get a direct hit. One of our most dangerous trips to the front was made on the night of September 24th. The night was bright and clear and the moon which we had long since learned to hate as an arch enemy was out in all its glory. We had fifty trucks loaded with small arms ammunition and signal rockets for the infantry. Our task was to get these trucks into Cumieres, a short kilometer behind our own front line on Forges Hill and in full view of the Boche lines on the heights across the Meuse. The trucks were sent into Cumieres two at a time and the ammunition was dumped in an old reserve trench which cut the road at right angles. It was an all night's job under the very nose of the enemy. Why he did not fire will remain an unsolved mystery; there is no question but that he saw the whole performance. On the evening of September 26th an order came for an officer and fifty men to report to one of the batteries of the 1 04th Field Artillery at Charny. The officer from the 1 04th who reported as guide had instructions to get us away from the battery positions before midnight. This confirmed our suspicions that the big drive was to start at that time. We started out at dusk but the roads leading up to the lines were so jammed with traffic that by eleven we had gotten only to Fromereville, about half the distance to our destination. By midnight we had worked out of the blockade and doubled back on another road, finding it impossible to go forward. We stopped on top of the crest just south of Fromereville and waited for the big show to begin. Promptly at 1 1 :30 the blackness was pierced by a thousand flashes as the batteries of 75s and 15 5s opened up the barrage. It was then we realized that we were watching the beginning of the greatest offensive in the history of the world. Presently, just behind us, a sixteen-inch gun let loose, nearly knocking us off the hill. After watching the show for nearly half an Thirty-three hour we returned to camp, tickled to death that we were on the south side of that barrage. At 5 :30 A. M. the doughboys went over the top and beyond and by ten o'clock we had the report of the advance all along the front from Verdun to the sea, w^ith all objectives easily taken. In many cases, as in our own sector, the doughboys had gone so far into enemy territory that the artil- lery had to stop firing for fear of hitting our ow^n troops. After this first successful rush the enemy's resistance stiffened and we settled down to a slow,steady and sometimes costly advance. The batteries were moved further forward, necessitating longer hauls over roads new to us and badly battered by our artillery fire as well as by the return fire of the Huns. One road in particular — the road over Forges Hill through Forges and w^est to Bethincourt — was in terrible shape despite the heroic w^ork of the engineers. It w^as under fire continually from German batteries across the Meuse who were, so far, unmolested, and had perfect observation on this road. During the day our trucks went over it only at long intervals and then had to run the gauntlet of shrapnel. At night though shelled continually the road itself w^as our w^orst enemy. The mud and shell holes combined to make it w^ell nigh impassable. But we went and the batteries to the north never lacked ammunition. Our trips into the enemy's country gave us an idea of what our shell fire had been. Little wonder that the prisoners who w^ere brought in that first morning w^ere scared half to death. Scarcely a trace remained of the Boche trenches and dugouts which had constituted before September 26th their front line system. Our artillery had done its w^ork well — destruction v/as everyw^here complete. Of our activities at this time First Sergeant A. M. Stewart writes: One of the trips not chronicled in the official report of the brigade and which proved to be one of the most exciting and dangerous trips the Train ever made occurred on October 9th- 10th. This trip warrants more than passing mention, since it was one of the few times that the Train was called upon to supply ammunition to a unit outside of the division to which we were .at that time attached. About noon on the 9th of October the 102nd Ammunition Train re- ceived an order to proceed to battery positions of the 1 3th Field Artillery north of Septsarges in the Argonne, at that time the most advanced battery positions of their division directly behind the third line trenches. From the fact that the order read that ammunition must be gotten through even though it took two trucks to pull one over the shell torn roads, it can be seen that the batteries were in dire need of ammunition. Fourteen trucks and one hundred and two men reported to Captain Olmstead, who was in charge of the detail. The train left camp about one o'clock and arrived at the ammunition dump at Chattancourt, a distance of about twenty-three kilometers, about an hour and a half later. There the trucks were loaded, each truck carrying forty-eight 155 shells as well as powder, fuses, etc. About dusk we started for the battery positions to the north, proceeding at a fair rate of speed until we arrived at the intersection of the roads meeting at Esnes. Here we encountered our first traffic jam. From then on our advance was very slow and we made our way forward a few feet at a time with difficulty. The road was choked with traffic — ambulances, trucks and tractors — all creeping along in the inky blackness. Here and there along the road could be seen a truck or caisson, damaged by shell fire or stuck fast in the mud along the edge of the road, overturned or thrust aside by the engineers in their unceasing efforts to keep the road cleared. It was along this road that we received our first welcome of the evening from the Boche. H. E., gas and shrapnel whizzed over our heads and struck close enough to make us rather nervous, disturbing Thirty-four ^■■-■■■.t::-^-h^^^^^ Chatiaucourt Thirty -five the sleep of the ammunition handlers who had crawled under the tarpaulins and were vainly trying to catch a few minutes of much needed sleep. It was long after midnight w^hen w^e at last crawled into Cuisy, about five kilometers from Esnes, where we were to pick up a guide to the battery positions. After some delay caused by the search for the guide, w^e passed through Cuisy w^hich only two days before had been occupied by the Huns. It w^as there that we saw^ perhaps the best example of the havoc wrought by our artillery in the opening days of the big drive. Piles of stone with here and there a pinnacle of masonry were the only signs left to mark the site of a once prosperous little city. Winding our way through the town and up the hill towards Septsarges we encountered another traffic jam. Here we were again greeted with H. E. and gas and all around us could be heard the gas alarms of the doughboys in the reserve trenches along the road. Right here is where the writer of this narrative claims the distinction of putting on his gas mask the most times in the fewest number of minutes of any man in the A. E. F. Cuisy. Our guide then proceeded to direct us along what he considered the shortest and most direct route to the battery positions in direct contradiction as we afterw^ards learned to his orders. Proceeding down the road past coast artillery positions we branched off on a muddy track which proved to be but little more than a by-path. We w^ere proceeding along w^ith some diffi- culty when a somewhat excited artillery officer appeared and stated that the road was absolutely impassable, that it was under direct shell fire at the time and w^as a roundabout way to our destination. The guide, how^ever, was so insistent that it was decided to send one truck through and turn the rest of the Train back over the other route, up through the valley to Septsarges and then on through the town to the batteries which w^ere located a kilometer or tw^o to the north. While the trucks were being turned around the daw^n was slowly breaking and before w^e were again on the main road our artillery opened up with a barrage w^hich shook the ground and made speech im- possible. This barrage did its work. Only a few moments before the Hun artillery had opened up with its regular morning barrage and we had watched it creep up the valley tov^ards us with some apprehension. But as our artillery brought gun after gun into action the Hun fire died dow^n until only an occasional shell came over. Some time later we passed through Septsarges and along the road to the north where we saw the bridge which our lone truck had been obliged to cross. On this bridge we counted five direct hits made by the Hun shells. Thirty-six What might have happened had the rest of the Train attempted to follow this course is a matter of conjecture. In passing through the town and along the road the trucks were obliged to travel at intervals of three hundred yards, thus affording a much smaller target for the Hun gunners. Hardly had we passed through the town when a terrific explosion caused us to look back. We could see a dense cloud of black smoke rising from the center of the town and from this we knew that an "ash can" of H. E. had landed. The word was quickly passed along that one of our trucks had been struck and that both driver and helper had been killed. This, however, was soon dis- proved when all our trucks were quickly accounted for. We found the battery positions located just beyond the crest of a hill. There was no hard road leading up the incline and the heavily loaded trucks made little headway through the red clay and mud. The artillerymen soon came to our assistance, however, with a large German tractor, one of two of which they had captured in their advance of the two days previous. With this tractor hitched to the leading truck two or three trucks could easily be drawn up at once. Arriving at the battery positions , w^e found two batteries absolutely out of ammunition and w^ere ready to withdraw from their positions at a minute's notice. The ammunition was quickly unloaded and in an incred- ibly short time these pieces had added their voices to the deadly chorus. While unloading the shells we had the pleasure of seeing four Boche planes brought to earth directly over our front lines. Two of these were direct hits by our anti-aircraft guns and this gave us a good deal of satis- faction after the trials of the night before. The Train left the battery positions about one o'clock and after some delay caused by the congested traffic arrived at our station about six o'clock that night. All were rather tired and hungry but at the same time felt quite satisfied in making the trip without mishap. The camp w^as fired on almost daily for a period of two w^eeks by long range guns of large caliber, probably about twelve-inch pieces. Several casualties resulted though fortunately none in the company. Our only casualties in this camp consisted of two men, Edwards and McKnight, who were slightly gassed on one of the trips up front. There were many air battles constantly taking place overhead in this vicinity. One Boche machine was brought down just outside the camp after an exciting chase and the pilots, not seriously hurt, were taken prisoners. Several observation balloons were also burned within sight of camp. On October 1 3th w^e moved northw^ard in order to be nearer the action which had been steadily advancing. We took up an old French battery position near Le Claire consisting of a number of dugouts, some shallow and some very deep, and all infested with rats. The position was undoubtedly plenty large enough for a battery but the entire motor battalion of the Train was too large for it and we had to crowd close in the dugouts and then some spilled over into pup tents. Although our operations with the 33rd Division were confined almost entirely to the sector west of the Meuse in the Argonne, w^e were called upon several times to make trips which required us to cross the river. During the last few days of our work with the 33rd, our artillery took up advanced posi- tions along the Meuse at Consenvoye and it was in supplying these batteries with ammunition that we w^ere called upon to follow routes on both sides of the river. One of these routes crossed the river at Charny and followed the road on the east bank of the Meuse straight up to Consenvoye while the other led over Forges Hill north of Forges and up the west side of the river. The latter route made it necessary for the trucks ot cross the long causeway over the river before entering the town. This causeway was under direct observa- tion of the enemy and was under continual shell fire. For some distance Thirtv-seven Lc Claire before reaching the river the shells could be seen hitting on all sides of the bridge and in the water and there was always the question in our minds as we approached the turn in the road whether we would be as fortunate in getting safely across this time as we had been in the past. The Train was always split at this branch in the road and several hundred feet intervals were allowed between trucks. Happily we never met with any misfortunes. On October 1 4th we were called upon to furnish a detail of one officer and twenty-five men to establish a new ammunition dump at Gercourt, well up in the former Boche country. With a field range and two days rations we started out in two trucks arriving after a laborious trip at Gercourt where we were to meet a guide. We, of course, found no guide, which was not unusual. Of this detail Private L. A. Britt writes: We were here but a few minutes when "Jerry" greeted us with a shell which though poorly aimed landed near enough to make us fall on our faces. Here it was that Corporal Grobsmith made his famous mud-dive. We hur- riedly climbed into the trucks again and stopped about two kilos west of Gercourt. Here again we sought a home. Soon "Jerry" sent over some more Thirty-eight shells and it was then that we noticed his method of firing. The shells hit on both sides of us gradually creeping closer. Before he could get us, however, the trucks were unloaded and our equipment w^as safely stored in our new home but a short distance away. This was the furtherest advanced camp we ever established. After setting up the kitchen we looked about for a place to sleep and finally made our quarters in the remains of a former German battery position. Many direct hits had been made by our guns on this position but we found room enough — some in officers' quarters, others fifty feet under- ground and some in cubby holes which the Boche had used for storing ammunition. Much ammunition, well packed in wicker baskets, as well as playing cards, rabbit cages and a good deal of equipment of different kinds had been left here by the Germans in their hurried retreat. An abandoned gas alarm, a flat piece of steel, was used in our kitchen as a pancake griddle. While living here the Boche had had electric lights in the very deep shell- proof dugouts. His power plant, located in Gercourt, was the cause of the frequent and intense bombardments of the village. We were under fire day and night. At first we experienced some difficulty in sleeping but we soon became used to the constant shell fire. The day of our arrival a truck train brought up a large number of shells for the new dump v/hich we established at the junction of a narrow gauge railwa}' and the road. Two men stayed at the dump at all times and the work was carried on in reliefs. The shells were sorted and camouflaged to deceive "Jerry's" airmen. That this was well done is evident from the fact that not a Boche shell was dropped near the dump. The artillery caissons carried the shells from the dump and a record was kept of all incoming and outgoing ammunition. If a special kind of shell became scarce a hurried order to the rear quickly brought response and there were often 20,000 rounds in the dump at one time. We had been living in our new home for about five days when we were obliged to move and make room for some artillery which had taken up positions not far distant. Several narrow gauge cars were found along the railway and loading our equipment on them we proceeded to our new home. By pushing the cars up hill and coasting down we traveled about two kilo- meters west of Gercourt where we came upon a concrete dugout known as a German "strong box," two elephant iron huts and a camouflaged kitchen. Here we unloaded and made ourselves as comfortable as possible. The concrete dugout was strongly built with walls three feet thick and was both gas and bomb proof. It was here we discovered that the German camouflage was made of paper woven tightly to resemble cloth. Souvenirs of all kinds abounded machine guns, rifles, gas alarms and helmets — all left behind by the fleeing Huns. The gas alarm we used for our own protection and as there was much air activity near us we mounted a machine gun but never had occasion to use it. The helmets were used as wash basins and for heating water. As we were directly behind our light "-1,^ «i» Dugout at Gercourt. Thirty-nine artillery we were under constant shell fire. Several men had rather close shaves, one when a shell splinter went through a can he w^as holding in his hand and Bard was gassed so that he felt the effects for weeks afterwards. While in this camp we received word that a large number of Prussian prisoners had killed their guards and were roaming around free. From that time on our rifles were always kept close at hand. Many dead Germans lay in the fields but a short distance in front of us near the former German second line reserve trenches. These trenches, built in the side of a hill, contained beer gardens and reading rooms which were well stocked with furniture which we quickly appropriated for our own use. After a few days in our second home we were relieved by the French and rejoined the company at Le Claire on the 22nd of October. Upon our arrival we learned that the 33rd Division to which we were attached was being relieved and that we were to pull out the next day for a rest camp in the rear. TO THE TIN DERBY The shot and shell were ringing And machine gun bullets singing As I stood unloading shells beside the road; And with rain and mud bespattered And my slicker torn and tattered, 1 was starting back to get another load. When a shell burst just before me And a splinter nearly tore me While another one descended on my head; You w^ere my sole protection. You lid of Ford perfection — Without you surely now I would be dead! So w^hen the war is ended, I'll have you neatly mended, And find a cozy place to tuck you in; For though I've cursed you and I've flayed you, By the Henry Ford that made you. You're better than a dugout, Hunk o' Tin! 'Liciitriiaiit A. C. DoJioz'on. J'crdnn. X.n'Cinbcr 12, 1918. -^ X Forty / CHAPTER VI. "FINI LA GUERRE" By Licit foiant 11. K. Sivcct and Wagoner Harold Page At last relief had come and on October 23, 1 9 I 8, we moved from our dugouts at Le Claire into the "rest area" — Verdun. The sights as we passed through Verdun were very interesting and we were momentarily speechless at the sight of such destruction. Whole sections of the city lay in ruins. Not a thing had been missed by the Hun shells. Upon leaving the city we passed through the historic gate on the northeast side. This strongly fortified gate surmounted by the battle-scarred towers presents a most imposing appear- ance and the barbed wire entanglements, used by the French in the recent defense of the old city, presented a striking contrast to the deep moat, an important part of the ancient defenses, with which the city is surrounded. After crossing the river Meuse we entered Fauberg Pave, just outside the walled city. This was to be our "rest camp." The barracks, massive in size, were built in the usual French army style. Entirely constructed of stone, with steel reinforcements, they were built to stand, and standing they were, though considerably damaged by shells and bombs. The building in which we were billeted had had its roof nearly blown away and portions of the walls had been torn by shells. It boasted few doors and no windows. Since Hun planes were numerous and very active in this locality great care was taken in regard to lights. It was necessary that the windows and numerous holes through which light might penetrate should be filled with bricks, sand bags, etc., but even then some light would occasionally shine through. When this was discovered by the guard, he never failed to yell, "Put out that light!" A short distance north of the barracks on the hillside were located several long range naval guns operated by American naval gun crews. These guns were constantly in action and were the daily objective of heavy fire from the Boche long range pieces, as well as the nightly target of the Hun airmen. These pieces were mounted on railway trucks and their positions were fre- quently changed much to the annoyance of the Hun gunners. Several times our sleep was disturbed when the guns opened up in the early morning bar- rages, for the concussion of the explosion was enough to bring us straight up in bed thoroughly awake. Aiiierieau Ahwal Guns at the Front. Every night in this sector, whether on the road or in the barracks, we witnessed a brilliant display from the many powerful searchlights encircling Verdun. They were very successful in spotting and driving off those pests, the German bombing planes, which tried but never succeeded in putting a single one of our much feared naval guns out of action. Day after day and night after night those historic hills resounded to the explosions of enemy shells and bombs. Verdun was the one vulnerable historic point on the battle line that "Jerry" most desired and this desire had cost him 350,000 men. Forty-one Each day we saw him 10,000 feet in the air photographing the city and the surrounding sector endeavoring to keep in touch with the citadel which he could never enter. We calmly heard the dull heavy explosions of our "archies" which often brought him down, or we watched an air battle high in the clouds and applauded loudly when the Hun fell in flames and we ex- claimed, "Another good German — a dead one." On October 23th we were attached to the 79th Division with whom we were to work while in this sector. Major General Joseph E. Kuhn, com- mander of the 79th, showed his appreciation of our work in a fine letter of commendation. Brief as this narrative must be it could not be complete without recalling the names and localities of the ammunition dumps from which we operated. The dump at Houdainville was cleverly located in an old stone quarry of immense proportions w^hose steep w^alls re-echoed to the noise of the loading, re- minding us of the palisades of New York in the days of Rip Van Winkle, resound- ing thunderously to the cannon balls hurled down the mountains by the old bearded druids. But unlike Rip, we were all awake helping to put "Jerry" to sleep for the next twenty years. It is now known to all that when he awak- ens from his long dream of world do- minion he will find the picture of Liberty over the old tavern door in place of the hideous features of the ex-kaiser. Not far from Houdainville was an- other dump artistically camouflaged in the hills. It had been in existence since the long dark days of the attack upon Verdun when the Hun nearly outflanked that ancient citadel of freedom. Had they succeeded in entering this famous fortress, with its miles of underground passages and well concealed emplace- ments, and taken as their own the hid- den city w^ith its invaluable stores of pro- visions and occupied the spacious and convenient quarters, so well protected that perhaps only an earthquake or some similar disaster could disturb them then, indeed, might the world tremble, for with this strategic point in the hands of the Huns what would prevent their steady advance and when would the German rule cease to be a pressure? To be sure the enemy occupied the two important forts, Vaux and Douamont, cleverly concealed in the hills a little northeast of Fauberg Pave, but only for a short tinie. The east bank of the Meuse was the scene of our liveliest experiences and our most interesting work. Two well remembered routes were used in going north to the battery positions — one, across the river at Verdun through Thierville and Charny and then back to the east side north of Bras, the other all the way up on the east bank of the river, which proved the better route through Bras. Vaucherville, Samogneux, Death Valley, Brabant, Consenvoye, Etraye and Reville. The exciting incidents in this sector were almost too numerous for our welfare. Every night the boys went through enemy gas and shell fire and our good fortune can only be described as miraculous. Among these miracles, an experience of Captain Olmstead comes first to mind. One day he had a train load of 155s at the 106th F. A. battery The ruins of the main street of Verdun. Forty-two VERDUN The Gates of I'crdnn. TJtc Cathedral of J'crdtin. The Moat Around Verdun. The Meuse side of the city. Forty-three positions along the road south of Brabant. An enemy shell exploded on the other side of the hill two hundred yards away and a fragment just missed the Captain's head, striking in the mud across the road. Our commanding officer of course thought of what a grand souvenir he would now have, so he quickly ran over and grabbed the piece of shrapnel and upon burning his fingers dropped it again more quickly. When the fragment had cooled sufficiently for examination it was found to be a wicked looking jagged piece of steel weighing two pounds. The Captain still has his souvenir and we still have our Captain. Another incident which we will never forget was the day when the Huns blew up dump No. 1. We had worked all day and night hauling up 75 s, mostly H. E. and gas and had stacked about 4,000 rounds when Fritz started to shell the dump. We stood about 200 yards away watching our labors go up in smoke, flame and clouds of dirt. When we managed to find time to think, we wondered what they meant bj' rest. Day and night we worked and the detail clerk was the most popular man in the barracks. We loved to hear our names called about midnight by the detail grabber, who would yell, "Detail going out on truck No. 41 1017, right away. Get two days' rations from Sergeant Hoover in the kitchen." These rations always consisted of corned willy or monkey meat, tomatoes and hardtack. These were the days when the boys ate their corned willy and liked it. One detail, which many of us remember, left Verdun about 3 P. M. with two days' rations, arriving about one-half hour later at the Thierville railhead dump. We started out from the dump with the trucks loaded to capacity with fuses, primers, powder, gas, shrapnel and "D" shells. We passed through the ruined town of Charny and crossed the famous Meuse bridge, which had been built up over night by American engineers under heavy shell fire, and entered Bras. Turning to the left we followed a camou- flaged road with a narrow gauge railway on one side and a line of trenches on the other. These trenches had been used by the Huns up to the time of the big drive on September 26th. Our journey took us up the right bank of the Meuse into what was once the town of Vaucherville, past the Red Cross first aid stations and numerous ammunition dumps and former German dug- outs and through the town of Samogneux, where traffic was always congested, along the very narrow slippery roads filled with shell holes, ruts and ditched. On approaching the three corners, friend M. P. halted us with "Jerry is shelling up there. Keep one hundred yards apart." This we had heard so often that we paid scant heed to it. At last we approached the battery posi- tions and asked where to dump the load. The answer as usual was, "I'll show you up to our new positions. We move again tonight." Then we went on in the gloomy darkness towards the front on the muddy shell-torn roads where Fritz had just been driven away the day before by our doughboys. We didn't doubt the M. P.'s word when we heard the shells whistling and the dull thuds when they exploded. We knew then that they were gas by the pleasing odor — someone yelled, "Gas!" Masks were donned double quick, sirens, claxons and all sorts of gas alarms sounded while we continued our trip to the new positions. The lieutenant said, "Just around the corner here." It seemed as though we were in the front line trenches and we weren't far from the Hun lines, for we could hear the machine gun bullets singing over- head as we unloaded. Then we returned and hauled the guns up to the new positions, after which we were told, "Now, all you have to do is to haul up four thousand rounds from dump number one and we'll be all set." Our spirits dropped for a minute, but we remembered that we had our issue of monkey meat and hardtack, so off we went until the work was done. On Forty-four Our Barracks, Paubcrg Pave (J\^rdu)i). arriving in camp we found ourselves just in time to be too late for supper. Again, as usual, we were "S. O. L.," but our good friend "Hoover," with his staff of greasballs soon fixed us up. These were the days when the intricacies of phychology entered into our situation, help- ing us more than we realized. Once we had reached the front, all the disaster which we knew others had experi- enced, was forgotten. We went about our tasks never thinking of danger — even scorning the idea of it — never for a moment believing that the Hun had a pill with our names written across it. This fact was responsible for the extremely high morale which existed in the company at all times. We were quite unconscious of the cause, yet it was there. On October 30th many of the boys had the opportunity of seeing a Boche plane brought down by an American anti-aircraft gun. Of course, it wasn't the first one, but it made an entirely different sight than any of the others, since the flyer did not try to evade the shells, but on the contrary, seemed to dive right into them. He was finally hit and landed about five kilos from Verdun, where the boys soon located the plane and collected the usual souvenirs. We ran the trucks twenty-four hours a day, because we had so few of them with which to haul the tremendous amount of ammunition required. The credit for the manner in which they stood up belongs entirely to the efficient mechanics in our company. They worked night and day greasing up, replacing broken steering knuckles or traveling many miles towards No Man's Land to bring in cripples. The company could never have stood the gaff without the willing and intelligent co-operation of these men. At the time it was marvelous to see the trucks go out every day as if they never broke down or never needed attention. But calm reflection now reminds us that the mechanics were on the job. '% nhmm Quad out of Action. Due to the rapid advance of the artillery during the days just preceding the armistice, we had unusual opportunities to see the results of the stubborn hand-to-hand fighting which marked the advance of the Americans along the east bank of the Meuse in the last days of the drive before hostilities ceased. Forty-five ■•~sWr.r»^ The guns were advanced in a leap-frog fashion — a battery at a time, or in some cases, only one or two pieces. This necessitated longer hauls for the trucks and resulted in our covering much more territory than before when the ammunition for a battery was dumped in a designated spot. Perhaps the most interesting sights and those which represented the most striking pictures of the fighting were those along the route to Etraye and Reville through Death Valley. The v/oods on either side of the valley were filled with machine gun nests, cunningly hidden, v/hich had been abandoned by the Germans only at the last minute. That these had fulfilled the purpose for w^hich they were intended was evident from the unending stream of ambulances which filled the roads during the last few days of the fighting, and even days after the fighting ceased. Many of these nests, consisting of a small, shallow pit dug at the roots of a tree and screened with a little brush, showed the results of direct hits made by our artillery. The road through Death Val- ley was itself a mute witness of the stubborn battle. Along its entire length w^as scattered the wreckage of caissons and am- munition carts — blown from the shell-sw^ept road w^ith here and there the body of a horse or mule. Empty shell cases, rifles, canteens, ammunition and equip- ment of all kinds told the story of the hasty retreat and sw^ift advance. Passing through the valley and nearing Etraye, we saw the battlefield as it remained after the advancing infantry had passed. The scenes in all their horror stamped themselves inde- libly on our minds — the dead intermingled in every conceivable posture, the arms and guns of every description scattered around, the w^reckage and devastation — all left pictures in our minds which haunted us for days. These scenes w^ere common during these days just before and immediately following the armistice until with the end of the fighting came the salvage gangs and the burial squads and the country once more resumed the com- mon aspect of war-swept devastation. The morning of November 1 1 th came and at 6 A. M. we had news of the armistice being signed. Could it be possible that the Frenchman's favo- rite expression, "Fini la Guerre, " had materialized? With the new^s all details that w^ere out worked like demons to carry the last kisses for the conquered Huns. The zero hour was 1 I A. M., w^hen all hostilities ceased. Such a relief from the roar of battle is hard to realize. The air was still — not a shot could be heard. The chimes in the old Verdun cathedral pealed out the glad tidings. The war w^as over, slaughter w^as finished. Chaplain Tucker held services on the drill field that morning. The celebrations were carried on for many nights by the firing of star shells and colored rockets and blowing of whistles and sirens. Eleventh month, eleventh day, eleventh hour, nineteen hundred and eighteen, will always stay with us deeply inscribed in our mem- ories. On the evening of the day the armistice was signed, returning prison- ers started to flock into Verdun and from that time on for many days refugees flowed into the city in steady streams. One morning the news came to us that the war had commenced again. We w^ent outside our "caserne" and found that we had been surrounded by Russian prisoners returning from Germany. We were then informed that we would have to move. As moving on a minute's notice was now second German Machine Gun Nest. Fortv-six (jcniiaii "Sfraiig Box" nature to us, we rolled up our belongings and proceeded to the next building. We left our good stoves and many improvised bunks so the Ruskies could live in style. November 28th, Thanksgiving Day, with packs on our backs, we hiked to Belleray, a distance of seven kilometers. This w^as a very pleasant w^ay to spend Thanksgiving, as we were glad to get out of our crowded quarters and away from the Bolsheviki. Belleray w^as some place, compared with our former homes. We lived in houses from which the former Bellerites had fled during the attack on Verdun. Our Thanksgiving dinner, although pre- pared on moving day, when we usually went without eating, w^as a great spread. It consisted of monkey meat camouflaged in such a w^ay that the oldest veteran would have been unable to identify it; mashed potatoes, celery, peas and coffee and excellent apple cobbler w^ith real sugar sauce. The canteen presented each man with a bag containing nuts, chocolate, apples, cakes and cigarettes. Along with our dinner came the ever persistent rumor. This time it was that the 2 7th Division was to be one of the first divisions to go home. This was welcome, since we had been relieved from duty with the 79th w^hile at Verdun and were again a part of our own division. Monsieur "Cootie" made his appearance known w^hile w^e w^ere here. The members of the company commenced to use elbow grease on the body and the pleasant task of "reading the shirts" began. We then learned M'sieur Coot had brought his family with him. The Coot army w^as given as miser- able a reception as w^e gave the Boche. It consisted of mercurial baths in boiling water, consequences — cooties fini. Drills, hikes, check-up inspections, wood hunting and souvenir discarding took up our extra time. On December 2nd we were reviewed with the brigade by Major General McNaer, chief artillery officer, at brigade headquarters near Verdun. Reville, 5. A. M. December 10th, breakfast and all packed up ready to go at 7 A. M., we started for the train and arrived at Dugny, a seven-kilom- eter hike, a short time later. There we stood around in the mud and rain until eleven o'clock that night. This time it w^as not to be an overland trip on trucks nor in "40 hommes," but on the contrary, it w^as in the U. S. army side-door pullmans, sixty-five men in each. We entered the box car soaked to the hide, carrying our monkey meat, beans, tomatoes and hardtack. There we remained packed tightly together until 7 A. M. December 1 3th, with the exception of two five-minute stops, w^hen w^e stretched our legs and imbibed some lovely French coffee "avec rhum," regretting very much that no seconds were served. After leaving the train at La Chappelle-Athenaise our new Major, without his pack or overcoat, hiked us double time eight kilos to Montsurs, w^here we were greeted by our billeting detail. Forty-seven CHAPTER VII "WAITING" By Sergeant J. R. Ryan Of our stay in Montsurs but little need be said. Though only a small town of perhaps three thousand inhabitants, the cafes and shops proved very attractive for the first few days at least, to those accustomed to the dull same- ness of the life at the front. Within a few days, however, the novelty of being again in a locality untouched by the devastation of war wore off and we settled down to a more or less monotonous routine which was only broken by an occasional hike and more or less regular mess calls. Hence, when the order came about the middle of December for "A" Company to take over the M. P. duty in the brigade area, it was received with a feeling of relief. Small detachments of the company were scattered around in the little towns in the area, while the main body of the company were stationed at Laval, the largest town in the vicinity. The company left the remainder of the train and arriving in Laval on the morning of December 22nd, took up quarters in a vacant French barracks in the city. Laval, with its winding river, ancient castle and old buildings, held much that was of interest to us and the time not spent on actual duty was taken up for the most part in visiting the many interesting places in the city. A detachment of M. P.'s from our own division co-operated in the police work and little trouble was experienced with the large number of troops which visited the city. As our quarters afforded poor facilities for a Christmas dinner, arrange- ments were made for the entire company, and regular M. P.'s as well, to be fed at the Hotel Moderne. Trucks were sent out to bring in the men from the small towns and at 1 o'clock Christmas Day the entire company enjoyed their first and only Christmas dinner in France. Thanks to the able super- vision of Bard, the affair proved a complete success. The profits of the canteen paid the entire cost of the dinner, — five courses and two kinds of wine. ■4' — N. C - Lnval - Z-c ^ieux Pon' tt le ci«;c.?i. Forty-eighl Laval. Our stay in Laval was short, however, for w^ith the Christmas dinner came the rumor that we were to be reheved in a few days and were to start for a port of embarkation within a short time. Rehef came within the next two days when a battalion of M. P.'s from the "Old 83rd" moved into the city and took over the brigade area, and on the morning of December 29th v/e rolled our packs preparatory to the hike, which we believed would prove the first step towards the port of embarkation and home. After a hike of perhaps five or six kilometers, w^e arrived in the little village of Bonchamp, where the company was split up and assigned to what proved to be the best billets w^e had enjoyed since our arrival in France. Each billet boasted at least one fireplace and the men lost little time in making themselves comfortable. Check-up inspections, new^ clothing issues and equipment inspections took up much of the time for the first week or two following our arrival. The town itself proved most interesting and pleasant, with its hospitable cafes and friendly inhabitants and soon w^e realized that this, indeed, w^as the best part of our stay in France. The Cafe Fricot, "Louie's," soon became the unofficial headquarters for the company and at almost any hour of the day at least a platoon could be found grouped around the small tables playing cards, sipping coffee, or passing the idle hours in writing home or enjoying some magazine obtained from the canteen. On January 30th may of us obtained our first sight of the Commander- in-Chief of the American Forces in France when, v^ith the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade, 'we were reviewed by General Pershing. Few^ of us w^ill forget the impression we received as he passed down the long line of companies drawn up on the roadside and w^ith his staff inspected each man, stopping here and there to chat with one who w^ore a wound chevron or making some quiet comment to the officers who accompanied him. Many of us had caught glimpses of the General's car or of the Chief himself on various occasions at the training camp or later at the front, but this w^as the first time we had had an opportunity of the nearest thing military to a personal meeting. That the mutual impression was most favorable was evident from the remarks heard from the men on their return to the billets and the commenda- tion received at brigade headquarters from General Pershing. Rumor followed rumor during the days that followed until, w^ith the inspections made by the port of embarkation medicos, they gained substance and finally our hopes were realized when the order was received to prepare to move for a port on February 25th. The day came at last, and as truck load after truck load of the company bade goodbye to Bonchamp and left for the entraining point. La Chappelle-Athenaise, followed by the cheers and farew^ells of the townspeople, we knew that our remaining days in France were numbered. Shortly before leaving for embarkation, an order came though, detach- ing all men with which the company had been filled up prior to leaving for overseas. With these men v/ent Lieutenant Donovan, in charge of all men drawn from Camp Custer, Michigan. About twenty-five men left the com- pany at this time. Leaving La Chappelle-Athenaise about five o'clock on the afternoon of February 25 th, we made what the train crew claimed to be a record run, and arrived in the railroad yards at Brest about eight o'clock the next morning, upon detraining, orders were given to unsling packs and fall in for mess. This w^as served in the large mess shacks adjoining the railroad yards, and certainly helped out on the long hike to camp which lay before us. Under full packs the long uphill hike soon began and finally proved to be a longer march than the one which greeted us on our arrival about eight months before. We passed the site of our former camping grounds and found it hardly recognizable, for what had then been a level field, broken only by Forty-nine hedges, was now covered with permanent wooden barracks capable of hous- ing a very large number of troops. Much to our satsifaction our stay in Brest proved a short one, but not short enough to escape the daily stevedore details and a taste of the very severe marine discipline which governed the camp. A final "show^ down" inspection, preceded by a physical inspection, completed the preparations and require- ments for embarkation and on the night of March 2nd many of us found sleep out of the question, too happy in the knowledge that we were to go on board a transport at an early hour next morning. RUMORS I hear we're going home soon, I got it pretty straight; The Colonel's chauffeur told my pal we'd not have long to wait. A couple more inspections and we'll be at our best. And then we'll "partie, tout suite" for St. Nazaire or Brest. I hear the leaves to Paris and other parts of France Have all been stopped by G. H. Q., so do not take a chance. The Corp. who goes without a pass will sure be out of luck; When he comes back he's sure to find he's nothing but a buck. I hear the doughboys move next week, perhaps it isn't so. But dope from their headquarters says that they're the first to go. They're through with all inspections and also two reviews. With gladened hearts and brightened eyes they welcomed this glad news. I hear tomorrow's pay-day, and nothing could be better; We'll square up all our debts again right to the very letter. Perhaps we'll breeze down to Laval and stage a goodbye party. And on our homeward way we'll sing and feel fine and hearty (?). I hear we are not going home — sad blow to our elation; Our lot will be in Germay with the Army of Occupation. We'll have to hike for miles, or rather beaucoup kilos. Instead of sailing for our homes on the sparkling, briny billows. We've heard ten million rumors, and not a one came true. As yet we haven't left for home, our pay is over due. The doughboys haven't gone yet — it's all a lot of bunk. The guy who peddles rumors should change and deal in junk. —Sergeant Walter Hole, Bonchamp, France. Fifty CHAPTER VIII ''HOME" By Wagoner Geo. Kelley The day we were to start the last lap and the "home stretch" came on March 3rd. To better realize its importance we were again up before the sun and w^ere w^ell on our way to Brest when the first rays of light found their way through the rain. What matter if our packs were heavy and it rained? We were on our way home. It w^as well, too, that we felt that w^ay, for it was nearly seven hours before w^e dropped our packs, this time on the upper deck of the U. S. Transport "Mount Vernon." This ship, it will be remembered, was the former North German Lloyd "Crown Princess Cecile," which made the hazardous run from Bar Harbor to Boston inside the three-mile limit at the opening of the war. In 1917, the Germans torpedoed her at a point about one day out of Brest. She was able to limp back into the harbor with her cargo of American wounded and was there temporarily repaired. Later she w^as taken to Boston, where she was completely overhauled. Our return voyage was the first trip made by trans- port after leaving Boston. Our company for fortunate in being one of the tw^o companies chosen as ship's guard. This duty proved far from unpleasant, and with the movies and entertainments provided by the Red Cross, Y. M. C. A. and other organi- zations helped to pass the long days of ocean travel, and as we came nearer and nearer our own side of the big pond we were all in the best of spirits. "As home his footsteps he hath turned from wandering on a foreign strand" — a grand and glorious feeling. And we all had it as w^e sensed that w^e were nearing New York. At three in the morning under each electric light we were busy with our packs and when these were ready we lined the rails and watched for the first lights off New York. Just lights, common electric lights in the distance on that early morning, but what a welcome they were to us! America never had such admirers as we who were just returning to her open arms and to us each one of those lights spelled "HOME." It was still dark when we passed the Ambrose Light Ship, but dawn crept upon us as we neared the Statue of Liberty and farther in w^e could see the harbor with its ferry boats filled with cheering passengers, and last and best, the pier w^here we were to dock, filled with Red Cross w^orkers and eui accommodating brass band. And when that band cut loose with "Hail! Hail! The Gang's All Here," w^e knew^ we w^ere home at last. We weren't allowed to get lonesome while we waited our turn to go ashore. Committee of Welcome boats drew in around us and started a shower of apples and oranges, which were the beginning of the series of handouts we received as we left the "Mount Vernon" and marched to another pier, where we boarded a ferry for Weehawken. There a strange thing occurred. A train with cushions in the seats was standing there waiting for us and as soon as we got aboard it started and without sidetracking carried us directly to the little station of Dumont in New Jersey. Here we again adjusted our packs and pounded our "hobs" along the asphalt pavement leading into Camp Merritt. With the exception of perhaps the first twenty-four hours, our stay in Camp Merritt can only be recalled with a bit of pleasure. Within a few hours after our arrival we had passed through the delousing and cleaning-up process and were allowed the freedom of the camp. According to A. E. F. stan- dards, Merritt could hardly be called a "camp," for with its theaters, dance halls, cafeterias, reading rooms, libraries and other places of recreation and amusement it afforded none of the hardships usually connected with an army camp. Fifty-one Twenty-four-hour passes were given to the New York city members of the company almost as soon as we were settled in the new green-stained barracks and during the most of the thirteen days of rest there the little slips were given freely. The "Apple Knockers," too, had their chance to see Syra- cuse, Fonda, Oneida and even Red Creek and Horseheads on seventy-two- hour leaves. That was "soldiering" as we like it. On the 24th of March, the day before the one set for the big parade in New York City, we were pulled out at about three in the morning and at five o'clock were between our packs and the hard road on our way to "Alpine Landing." At the end of that hike all agreed that the landing had been fittingly named. The trip on the ferry boat down to New York and then by elevated railway to the 8th Coast Artillery Armory was uneventful and not half as exciting as the fact that as soon as we reached our destination we were dismissed until six o'clock next morning. Some of us tried to renew acquaintance with the whole city within this short time, but we failed, and many were somewhat weary even before the parade started as we waited our turn in the long procession on the curbs of Thirteenth street. Still we threw our shoulders back and drew in our chins a little farther each time as we passed a band or were cheered by the surging crowds which lined Fifth Avenue. Although a parade is supposed to be quite a formal affair, it was impossible to carry this formality very far, as we charged full speed along the board avenue. Tlic I 'ictory Arch. Of course, we didn't do "double time" all the way, though it seemed like that to some, and all that avenue of banners, cheering crowds, confetti, oranges and apples were perhaps little noticed through the drops of perspira- tion which came down from under the tin hats. But it was great — a big day and one which will long be remembered both as the climax of the military career of most of us and as the last day we were to have those members of our company who claim the w^estern states as their place of abode. Fifty-Hvo Back in the Armory we were again excused until next morning, when we were to start by rail for Camp Upton. This trip, too, was an orderly affair and Camp Upton — well, what the camp had for us all w^e cared partic- ularly for, our discharges and our final pay. The necessary papers were finally signed and on April 3rd, 1919, Com- pany "A," 102nd Ammunition Train was physically dissolved with the pres- entation to its members of a $60 bonus and honorable discharge papers. With these we have returned to our scattered homes to go through again in mind what we have been through together. And who can truthfully say that our "Company A" shall not continue for years to come? Fifty-three THE OFFICERS OF COMPANY "A" Lieut. Donovan Copt. OJmstead Lieut. Szvect Fifty -four Company "A" was fortunate in its officers — none were courtmartialed. That "The Skipper," Captain H. N. Olmstead, was popular was ex- pressed when he was transferred, w^e feared permanently, it proved to be for a short time only. Liberal w^ith loans — not quite so w^ith passes; fond of his men, but often w^orried about them; a good soldier, a considerate officer, and best of all — a gentleman. First Lieutenant A. C. Donovan believed in getting everything possible for the men. Full of w^estern push and "pep," he instantly set things stirring after he joined us at de Souge. An ardent believer in good mess — and of mess fund contributions; a good French linguist — not as good an English poet; a connoisseur of pipes; a good disciplinarian — but decidedly human. (Especally as an M. P. officer in Laval.) Second Lieutenant H. K. Sweet (but a first "Looey" after the armistice) — rockribbed Republican, although a fellow alumnus of the President. Broke all records in the Ammunition Train for rapid promotions; a believer in free interpretations of the drill regulations and, toward last, an ardent collector of w^ar souvenirs and a persistent grantor of newspaper interview's. F-'iftv-five A GROUP OF NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS. Hole Vroman Jackson Tenuis Ryan Steztart Kirkpatrick Shafer Gere Fifty -six The best liked and most beloved men in the army are the non-coms, especially the sergeants. No matter what happens, they are always blamed. In this respect the N. C. O.'s of this company did not differ materially from those of any other outfit. Each had his faults and little peculiarities as well as his redeeming vices. Naturally the "topper" comes first, and indeed why not, for owing to his heavy responsibilities he is surely entitled to the place of honor. "A. Mills Stewart" by name, genial and smiling by nature, handled the job in a most creditable manner and with minimum of dissention. Next is our Supply Sergeant, Charles A. Shafer, who catered to our needs with a whole-hearted interest rarely found in one of his position. If "Shafe" had the stuff it was ours for the asking. It was no fault of his that our clothing didn't always fit, or that there were but two sizes issued — "too large and too small." William Stanton Gere, line sergeant, was always energetic, keeping "in shape" by daily runs and exercises. He was usually reserved, but was all animation on the drill grounds. His extensive French vocabulary helped him out of many a pinch and won him many smiles from the chic demoiselles. Shortly before leaving France one of our old sergeants, Walter Hole, returned to the company after a long stretch of detached service. Except for a few^ weeks spent on the Belgian front, he spent most of his time "touring" France, making three trips to Paris. Walter was generally known as an ambitious chap and semed to have a faculty for not hearing bugle calls, especially reveille. Charles W. Kirkpatrick, better known as "Kirk," had vocal ability which entertained us in all kinds of surroundings. He should really be termed "The versatile sergeant," as he proved equal to every special duty detail that came along. Kirk used to "'cast an eye" at every opportunity — roads, company streets or mademoiselles — all were in his line. Foster G. Jackson, another line sergeant, had a mania for souvenirs and added a peculiar French briar to his large collection of pipes. "Jack" and the pipe were to be seen at the head of the mess line thrice daily. On his appearance the bugler knew it was time to blow "soupy-soup." Foster's chief position was that of right guide of the company, especially on review^s and parades. J. Ralph Ryan, line sergeant, rejoined the regiment at Bordeaux, after a short period of detached service. He w^as heartily w^elcomed and the glad hand was in evidence. He was one of the many who were somewhat annoyed by the rats at the front. The toughest part of the war for him was getting out this book. Denman C. Thro, a very popular sergeant, w^as not long with us after the armistice was signed. He was taken ill w^hile w^e w^ere billeted in Belleray and was removed to a hospital. We all regretted "Darb's" leaving, for his ready wit and good humor was a source of entertainment. He also had very taking w^ays and seldom returned from a trip to the lines w^ithout bringing in some salvage — a saddle, or an O. D. bicycle. We repeat he was popular and had very taking ways, especially w^ith the fair sex. Corporal J. Carl Vroman, without doubt the most willing and conscien- tious w^orker of the bunch, w^as the company clerk and "detail grabber." He was on the job at all hours day or night and details were always promptly filled. He also gave valuable assistance on the paper w^ork, for he swung a wicked pen. Corporal Thurlow E. Tennis, who hails from the state of Iowa, handled the paper work of the company ever since it w^as organized. He was un- equalled w^hen it came to tickling a typewriter and clicked the keys with a speed and regularity of a riveting machine. Next to going home, his big desire w^as to get back into those "knock em dead " shoes. Sergeant Walter Hole. Fifty-seven THE MECHANICS Mannuig Markhain Dunham Tucker Staubrooh Fifiy-ciglit THE MECHANICS Harken to our brave mechanics! Few they were — but five in number. At the front they toiled and labored — toiled long hours with little slumber. Steering knuckles, carburetors, worked like magic 'neath their fingers. Long, long ago did all this happen, yet in our minds this memory lingers. Sergeant Manning, mired near Forges, on a hillside torn and battered — on a slippery stone he stumbled, into a muddy lake he tumbled; came up dripping, mud bespattered; spoke hot words, an angry man; spoke wild words of condemnation on the Kaiser and his clan. Sergeant Stanbrook long will ponder, many days to come will wonder how it happened — how in thunder could a truck come to such harm? Nothing left except the wagoner with a "mag" beneath his arm. Corporal Markham, how he labored, how his voice rose high and quav- ered, when the spark-plug ceased its sparking and the gas line went sky- larking. Tore his hair and cursed the boat when the motor worn and weary ceased its labor — ceased to "mote." Corporal Dunham, tireless worker, heaved and tugged and cussed the shirker who had left his truck deserted, sunk waist high in slippery mud. How he pushed and shoved and carted tools with which to get it started, nor seemed to hear the whine and whistle of any shell or deadly missile whether gas or "dud." And last our chief mechanic. Tucker, how his brow would frown and pucker when a driver, needing succor, called him from his easy bunk. But from that bunk he'd quickly clatter and sally forth to mend the matter, drag- ging with him all his junk. Pi{t\-nine THE COOKS. Christcnscn Reed F. Hoffman Dale Hess Stxt-i THE COOKING STAFF It was back in the Armory at Syracuse that our original staff was formed. Cooks Kelley and Christensen were getting acquainted with the cuHnary art as practiced in the army, while Mess Sergeant Reed spent his time at the new canteen. However, at Camp Wadsworth, everyone had a chance to work and the competition between the staffs of Company I and Company 2 began. The companies messed together. Jim Kelley and Frank Schmitt held up the cooking end for Company I , while Rausch, Vroman and Brooks took turns as mess sergeant. At the reorganization the companies were combined to form the new "A" Company and "2's" cooking force was left in the field. Rationed on the "cash and savings" basis, we had saved enough money by Thanksgiving to put across one of the best feeds imaginable. The interior of the mess shack was trimmed for the occasion by Charlie Lotheridge and presented a most pleasing appearance. Printed menu cards with thirty-three items leaned again the glasses of sparkling punch and the dinner itself has been a topic for pleasant thought ever since. Shortly after that day our scientific cook George Kelley resigned, to take up a heavier mixing job, Vk^hich resulted in a cement floor in our new^ kitchen. The company carpenter, St. Pierre, joined forces and soon the zinc- topped tables, cupboards and shelves were an object of envy to its neighbors. "Christy" then moved up to first place and turned out even more of his specialty — biscuits. Jim Kelley filled the new vacancy and soon became noted for his lemon flavored chocolate puddings. Student cooks were called forth and a new wonder was unearthed, "Bill" Hess, who had kept his knowledge strictly to himself until he was coaxed into making some cakes. Our hats are off to Bill. About the same time came that hard working soldier, Frank Hoffman. Frank's favorite expression was "to figure" and the way he "figured out" breakfasts and dinners w^as amazing. The last addition was a long, lean soldier, known as Dale, Ray Dale, who became a member of the cooking staff at Camp de Souge, France. Ray's specialty was pie, but during most of our stay in France his specialty might better have been some style of camouflaging "corned willie." Sergeant Bert G. Reed. Sixty-one SQUAD NO. 1. Curtis Fletcher Bitrrozvs Adamson Rickzvalt Lyons Crane Sullivan Odajian This is a picture of squad number one, A bunch of guys full of spirit and fun. Sometimes they would crab, like good soldiers should. But wherever you sent them they always made good. Crane was the corporal of squad number one; He and his fiddle furnished the fun. "That's it" and "You're right" was all he would say, But was always right there to drive dull cares away. When at the front he went on details "beaucoup," But the signing of the armistice made him think he was through. Harry Odajian of New York taxi fame — To drive a truck at the front was his one big aim. When his health came back they gave him a quad, But the darn thing was minus a spring and a rod. That didn't stop him, nor did a "Jerry" shell. For he went on his way, going like h — 1. Lyons comes from Solvay and Ed is some boy, Sometimes he was crabby, sometimes full of joy. Whenever you saw him you saw his old pipe. But it sure was beginning to smell quite ripe. When a piece of shrapnel knocked off Eddie's lid. His pipe was still going and so was the kid. Sixty-two Sullivan — handsome, with his hair long and red; On the Rue he would knock all the French girlies dead. But Bill never fell, he would always declare He w^as true to the girl that he left "back there." Then the time came, real action was near, But that boy from Seventy-toid street knew not the word fear. Fletcher and Burrows were pals from the start; No matter what happened you couldn't keep them apart. Whether eating or sleeping or ducking a shell. You would find them together to see if one fell. But oh! how those boys were envied by all, Every time that the bugler would blow "mail call." From w^hence those letters came no one ever knew. But the fact still remains that they got "beaucoup." While in the dugout with rats at the door Ed Adamson would always be given the floor. He would preach on the Bible and talk against booze Till some one would hand him an old pair of shoes. But as a soldier, he w^as aces high; At the front he was ready to do or die. And Rickwalt, our heavyweight, to him goes the piize; They couldn't get clothes anywhere near his size. But he handled big shells as though they were buns And delighted in watching them cop off the Huns. No matter what happened, no matter what place. He was always good natured, a smile on his face. And then we have Curtis from Tolsey, Okla. He sure liked the French demoiselles — oo la-la. When not peeling spuds or carrying water. He was out promenading with somebody's daughter. But Ernest's main business, we were later to see. Was chasing the Boche back to old Germany. There's one absent member whose picture you can't see; He left some time ago for far-off Germany. He amused the whole squad with his singing and tricks. His dancing and juggling a pair of broomsticks. We miss Freddie Conklin, he was a good scout; And we hope he is with us when we're "mustered out." We're modest — that's us — we don't like to brag Of what we accomplished or did for the flag. We were just one squad of a million or more. Who crossed the big ocean to settle a score. -Corporal L. E. Crane. Sixty-three SQUAD NO. 2. Porter Miles kies ll'isiiiuin 1 aylor K. A. Smith Pollard PL A. Smith Eoff Couse There's a man in our squad by the name of Miles, When he saw the mail man he was all smiles, For he looked for a letter from his queen in Laval. Don't know^ what her name w^as — "Mary" or "Sail," But no matter! whatever be her name. He w^as a lucky fellow just the same. Next a young fellow, Carl Westman by name; Don't know w^here he comes from — Sw^eden or Spain. But he had a longing to be once again Back in that state known as Michigan. Now there was Taylor, a clever young lad. But certain motions nearly drove him mad. When he reaches home, all safe from harm, Tis sure he will stay with his pa on the farm, To look at Porter you'd know^ him a real gent. Every pay-day left him without a cent. For he had beaucoup fun with every pay. Don't suppose he'll ever think of a rainy day. Sixty-four Can't miss Pollard, who is six feet four; He's obliged to stoop when he enters a door. Once "Stretch" was an M. P. somewhere in France. 'Tis well known this old boy never took a chance. Then there was EofF, another big guy, A right good fellow with a twinkle in his eye. Now Eoff in French might be easy to beat. But better watch this boy, for he doesn't need to use his feet. And "Windy" Smith, who hails from Syracuse, You all know him, so what's the use Of my wasting the moments trying to rhyme; He will be mayor, just give him time. "Dolly Dimples " Kies is a Springville youth. Never known to even drink vermouth. He always wished to be an artist swell. But if he can draw his breath He's doing darn well. Couse, Adelbert H., wrote this dope; Should you or shouldn't you, give up hope? "Doc" is old with young ideas. You couldn't bank much on his French speals. Widows beware, and young girls, too. Should this super-man go gunning for you. Last and also least comes our Corporal — the knave; About a French maiden he surely did rave. He often spoke of Jane with beauty so rare, As she promenaded by his side with her head in the air: While little Dicky with his curly mustache, Led Bobette, her dog, with a little lash. — Wagoner A. H. Couse. Sixty-five SQUAD NO. 3. J. J. Clark Spring Bennett Hogg G. Hoffman Dodson B. Hollenheck Schmitt Dale Knowing ourselves for what we really are, admitting that all the praise w^e have received is true, casting aside the jealous flings at our immaculate character and strictly adhering to the policy of not bragging of our record, "it needs no such support,** w^e modestly introduce ourselves as the men who were instrumental in assisting Kaiser Bill down from his lofty perch. While we do not w^ish to claim the entire credit for bringing this terrible conflict of monkey meat, gold fish, corned willie, mud, pup tents and cooties to such a pleasant and successful termination, nevertheless w^e consider that our claims should be recognized before those of the Q. M., M. P.*s, or Y. M. C. A. While none of our members have been decorated w^ith the D. S. C. (Distin- guished Service Cross), neither do we float the much dodged D. D. S. (Deep Dugout Service). The mere mention of the members of our heroic little band will make the average American sit up and take notice. To begin with, we have "Sw^amp Angel*' Hoffman, our dashing corporal, w^ho delivered a speech from the tail end of the mess line to the mess hounds at the head of that line — a stirring message v^hich shall be studied by school children for years to come. George declared that some fiend of a Hun in- duced the top sergeant to send him (our corporal) to a motor school. Then, when our brilliant leader w^as off the field of battle, "Jerry * slipped over an armistice. Corporal Hoffman claimed that this never would have happened had he been on hand to offer his suggestion for ending the w^ar. He also stated that it completely ruined a perfectly good w^ar. Next in command came "Blondy" Spring, our Sanitary Lance Corporal, aspirant to Corporal Hoffman's crown. "J. G." is of a very quiet and retiring nature. He never told anyone above a Colonel where he fitted. Johnnies Sixty-six great delight was making the rest of the squad uncomfortable by sweeping out the billet. He still maintains that "French itch" and not cooties is the cause of a man constantly imitating a dog in distress. Of course, everyone is acquainted with "Rambling" John Dodson, the man who made the town of Orleans appreciate the Texas style of celebrating a holiday. The "Rambler" says there are many advantages of fighting a war in a wet county. (No, not the weather). His greatest regret is that his native state has gone dry. Old Dod also remarked that it was a queer thing how many drinks a fellow could have offered to him while on M. P. duty. He said that it took all of his superhuman will to refuse many of them and he sure pitied the man with no will power in a case like that. "Dimples " Schmitt is the Beau Brummel of our squad. He upholds our honor in the field of love. Many are the hearts of the petite mademoiselles that he holds to his credit. He left a trail of broken hearts strewn from Brest to the front. Another good quality of Frank's is that he is a great believer in George Washington's idea of soldiering. He never tells a lie. No matter where a man may be during a formation if "Cupid " reports the squad he gives a detailed account of said man's absence. The Atlas of our squad is "Dynamite" Hollenbeck. Bert is our strong arm man. Any time there was any real work to be done we sent forth our Cortland giant and he usually brought home the bacon. "Dynamite's" great weakness is picking straw hats on all details. However, we will pit him against any man in the A. E. F. on fatigue work. It now becomes our painful duty to acknolwedge a weaking among us. As much as we hate to do so, we feel it our duty to admit we possess a man who prides himself on never missing a sick call. We therefore humbly beg to introduce "O. D." Dale. The man whose name has appeared more times on sick report than the Kaiser has been connected with profanity. "Mellen Food" Jesse Hogg is the pet of our squad. Although he comes from the wild and woolly state of Oklahoma he is a very lovable creature. Everyone -who comes in contact w^ith him immediately falls for his quaint charms. His wonderful disposition and winning ways have carried him through this brutal war unscathed and still innocent in the ways of this wicked w^orld. "Regular " Bennett is our w^eather beaten veteran, having served a hitch with the regular army. The w^orst fault we know of him is that he was once an M. P. We shall not hold this against him, however, for it was not of his own choosing. Dame Fortune merely played a shabby trick on him. "Flowery " John Clark, of Jersey fame, who claims to have trained for this war by putting himself on a diet of rose thorns and orchid blooms, thus making himself bomb proof, puts the finishing touches on the squad. He acts as squad interpreter and finds that the French people can't "compree" his Parisian French which he speaks foolishly. Sitxy-seven SQUAD NO. 4. Al orris Barry KcUcy Glass Barnard Erzvay Lozce Holm The "Fighting Fourth" never deserved the name. We were always the most peaceful squad in the company, especially when we should be at reveille. We were long under the leadership of our Corporal, Fred M. Barnard (the second from the left on the bench). We all liked the corporal, that is, after he sent his mandolin home and sang only once in a while. We appreciated him even more w^hen w^e used to catch him over the pancake griddle early in the morning. Some girl — oh, well, why send all the Syracuse girls his way? On the Corporal's right is our "Deacon" Erway. "Deacon" was a wagoner. Like several others in the company, he drove a quad truck, for at one time in Camp de Souge we had as many as ten trucks. These were delivered to us lacking in equipment, but with various attachments for hold- ing the same. All at once the mechanics missed some tools, the cooks an axe, the engineers some shovels and a French railway lost ropes, chains and four-by-fours; and the "Deacon's" truck began to take on the appearance of a rummage sale. We are glad for France that "Deacon" couldn't drive that truck home to "Hector. " Next to the "Deacon" is Holm. Who will forget Axel, the photographer from Te^as? Who will forget those stories of bull-fights, Mexican rebellion and other horrors "down by the Rio Grande"? We have Axel to thank for the excellence of these squad pictures. "Texas," the Camp Stuart song-leader, is accused of sending the squad bag to his home in Granbury, instead of to our next stop in France. We can imagine the whole Morris family attired in "O. D." "Jake" is in the back row on the left. Sixty-eight On his right are Barry and Glass, the "cognac twins." Even the names suggest a drink. On the end is Lowe. "Springville" Lowe, the ex-basketball player. Nothing very notable about Lowe either. He is a pretty smooth chap. Last, but not least, is "Prohibition" Kelley. He can give an argument on liquor or can start off on a long ramble about canoes without any effort whatever. "From cook to sentry" Kelley is the first man on the left. The squad comment would not be complete without mention of Earl Leaky, who transferred to Battery "B," 106th F. A., while at Camp de Souge. We regret also that W. G. Grimes, the auto salesman of Detroit, Michigan, and Milford, Texas, had to leave us at Baleycourt on account of sickness. Wagoner G. E. Kelley. Sixty-nine SQUAD NO. 5. Collins Kadinski Michels E. E. Smith A. Hollenbeck Wilson Hixson G. Doyle Scott Meyers Behold, the "Razzing Fifth" of bygone fame, At the Newport siege we w^on that name. "Bedsore" Wilson and his bunk are pals. "I'd rather do this than w^restle the shells." Gosh, "Heifer" Hixson, the corporal, is witty; Hails from Eastwood, right near the city. "Jerry" Doyle, the Yonkers lad. Went after shoes — now^ Shafer's mad. "Sweetie" Scott w^eeping, w^hat a pitiful sight; "Oh where is my girlie this beautiful night?" In search of adventure w^ent Mickey Meyers; At Bordeaux we found him — behind the wires. "Cabbage" Collins, the moon-faced blonde, Was chief inspector at Orleans. "Taps" blew one night in Yiddish. It said: "Mail, Radinski! Get out of bed!" "Galopping One-Eye" Michels for short — Is the temperance leader of a cognac resort. Seventy E,. E. Smith sallied forth to see Bard; He returned with an eye-dropper and one pound of lard. "Cut out that groaning, Pool, or I'll break your neck!" Was an every night speech for "Suds" Hollenbeck. MEMORIES How dear are the memories of camp life at Bordeaux: The army of flies; the sand to our knees; The drills in the desert; the gas mask instruction. And nightly the combat against fire-swept trees. How well we recall that dark, rainy morning, When at five, through the mist, we heard reveille blow. Too late in the warm, cozy feathers we lingered. Hence one squad w^as missing in line at the show^. The following days w^ere to us very pleasant; Scrubbing the barracks — policing the grounds. "Cabbage" and "Mickey" w^ere kitchen mechanics. While "Jerry" and "Mike" with a rake made the rounds. No more do we slumber when "first call" is blow^ing. Our motto: "The early bird catches the w^orm" ; We're right on the spot when there's anything doing, Especially with hobnails and army Bull Durham. ^Corporal H. C. Hixson. Seventv-one SQUAD NO. 6. ^'^'^:..--^;^^i^. .:• \*^ m '^ J»>- ,#• ^ Slack Plant Bocttcher Bunce Irons Carey H. Hadlcy Grobsmith Conzvay Kihnartin Caccnski Now, that the time is coming when w^e all must separate, w^e look back over the days gone by, w^ondering if the days that are to come w^ill be as happy as those spent with our "Buddies" in this glorious army of the U. S. A. Many have been our trials and misfortunes since entering the Army, but at all times when a comrade was a bit disheartened some one of his squadmates was on hand to cheer him up. The parting is going to be hard for most of us, as we have all learned to know each other better than a father knows his son. When the time arrives and we all don our packs, turning our faces homeward, many will be the hours spent thinking of our experiences in our good old sixth squad. Here we have "Hungry" Carey, he of the mess kit bold. Bugle calls he never hears, but at soup call he hollers, "Yo!" In the days of peace he used to "rack them up," but now^ things have changed — all depends on his pluck. Then comes "Paddy" Conway, he of the youthful face. At times he thinks he is in mamma's arms, but trumpet call makes him aw^ake. He often dreams of his schools days of late. And when the call came for chauffeurs he turned out great. Oh, no. Don't forget "Red" Kilmartin, he of Harlem's confines. He oftentimes yearns for his comrades of old, but the "Apple Knockers" sure treat him fine. When a baseball's around he sure is no slouch, but "Sergeant the Shafe " always gives him a grouch. Sure here is "Chief" Hadley, the noble "Conducteur Automobile." He dragged in the coal and wood w^ith never a bit of a squeal. When the boys all feel blue and think all day long, everyone hollers for Hadley to come through with a song. Seventy-lwo Oh look! Here is "Captain" Slack, also a chauffeur of fame. There isn't much he doesnt know and his knowledge gained him fame. At night when the boys all sit round the fire, in wanders said "Captain" with some- thing for hire. And then there's "Hardtack" Boettcher, a roamer so he claims. He's wandered here and over there but this army isn't the same. His ancient line makes the boys feel sad till a voice from the corner yells, "Give him the razz." We also have "Wamba, the Jester," Gus Bunce he is called. His ready wit and funny jokes sometimes get him mauled. When details are formed he's never on time, but when passes are due, j^ou should see that boy shine. Here enters "Mabel." Her name I think is Plant. He roamed all over France trying to enter our rank. He used to live in the Auto State, Michi- gan by name. The days of wonder won't cease for him till he's back home with mamma again. Now, there is "Paducah" Irons, the boy from the Texas grange. No matter where we chance to be he always hugs the range. His greatest ambi- tion in this life now seems to get back "right quick" where the grass grows green. Then there is Cacenski, we call him "Pinochle" for short. He has our goat we must admit, but you should hear him snort. He roams about most all the night everlastingly annoying the squad. And at one or two or three o'clock he imitates a "wop" with a hod. Whenever he hollers, "Let's play a hand," all answer in chorus, "Will you please close that clam?" Last, but not least, comes our Corporal, "Phosgene" is his name. In Camp de Souge he taught us to out-wit "Jerry's" game. Many are the times we used to grab his goat, but not very long after he was just as smooth as soap. His dear line of salve had the boys fooled, but they were afterwards glad they had been thoroughly schooled. Now, in conclusion, we'd all like to say, we'll all watch and wait for that happy day when we all reunite with a great feast of joy and chat over the days spent at old Consenvoye. Corporal Adrian J. Grobsmith. Seventy-three SQUAD NO. 7. Fox McGarry Gaddis Reynolds Shero O'Day Burke Peters Gnsfke Bard The aggregation comprising the seventh squad as it went throught the campaign, was formed at Camp Stuart. Aside from two members. Wagoner Richard Mahaney, "The Irish Prince," and Private Loran ( "Vin Blanc") Johnson, who volunteered for the Army of Occupation, the squad remains intact. Under the leadership of Corporal James P. O'Day an odd collection of individuals was placed. There is Wagoner Joseph McGarry, sometimes called "The Black Sheep," owing to the jet black locks that crown his noble brow. He was naturally hot-headed, but quick to forget his grievances. Ambition is his middle name. His exact opposite may be found in Private Raymond Gaddis, who liked to boast that he did less work than any other man in the company. His favorite hobby was collecting dope and rumors for the edification of the squad. The army clothing misfits never troubled him, but they were a great worry to Wagoner Henry Gustke, who took especial pride in his personal appearance. Owing to the fact that he never had cigarettes of his own he earned the name of "No Tobacco." Each squad is bound to have it messhound and the seventh is no excep- tion, for the favorite pastime of Wagoner Michael J. Fox was sprinting for the mess line. However, if he needed anything, he always desired someone else to do the sprinting. The other extreme may be found in Private Fred Shero, who would often miss a meal to finish some interesting story. Now we come to the squad dictionary. Wagoner Benjamin Reynolds, pinochle artist and checker fiend. He was always looking for an argument and w^as very unwilling to give in if he was w^rong. He earned the name of "Red Creek" by boasting of the rural activities of his home town. Se''enty-four Then there is C. M. Bard, of canteen fame, a man of strange ideas and known throughout the company as "Colonel." We acquired two new members shortly before leaving France: Fred J. Peters, who was always willing and anxious to offer his opinion on any sub- ject that might be brought up, and Private Fred J. Burke, who although he bears the same name, was of an entirely different nature. He was a very quiet and likeable fellow. We found no nicknames suitable for either of them. A few words for our athletic Corporal, J. P. (Hank) O'Day, will com- plete the sketch of the "Lucky Seventh." He was rather difficult to please and always insisted that his orders be obeyed. His favorite amusement was garnering "beaucoup" francs by the "seven come eleven" method. Under his leadership the Seventh went through the campaign without mishap. Although the squad abode has been the scene of many a wordy combat, it is doubtful if ten men ever lived together in a more brotherly manner. Now, that our bit is nearly completed and the squad is soon to be broken up, it is with a certain pang of regret that we await the day of our final separation. In after years we will look back upon our sojourn in France, both while we were in action and after the cessation of hostilities, with a touch of pleasure and each of us will always cherish in his heart a warm spot for every member of the squad. Wagoner Benjamin H. Reynolds. The Irish Prince Mahaiiey Seventy-five SQUAD NO. 8. Bidinger Simone Tarpcy O'Neill Haynes Layton Berghind Harvey Our squad was first formed at Camp Stuart, under the leadership of Corporal Lynn M. Hakes. Each squad was given a nickname of some sort at this time. We were generously dubbed "The Taking Eighth." Perhaps we deserved it, for we have been justly accused several times of taking any- thing that wasn't nailed down as well as some things that were. After passing through the campaign without mishap, our w^orthy Corporal, as well as two other members of the squad. Wagoner William M. Munro and Wagoner Elmer G. Edwards, volunteered for the Army of Occupation, while we were located at Verdun. Our new Corporal, Charles E. Layton, better known as "Pop" — a vet- eran of many campaigns — through his many experiences has proven of great value to the other members of the squad. It certainly required a large amount of diplomacy to keep peace in a bunch of men whose dispositions varied so widely. Among these was our noisy friend. Wagoner Edward E. Haynes, who was forever looking for trouble and usually succeeded in finding it. He earned the name of "Bananas" early in his army career and this name fol- lowed him through the war. Private John A. Simone, the boy-soldier, since he w^as unable to run this army to suit his taste, always wished for an army of his own. Although the youngest member of the squad he insisted on having his own way. His exact opposite could be found in Private Wilfred J. O'Neill, a sweet tempered boy, whose principle worry was that he might be beaten out of his afternoon nap. He was one of the company's experts on ducking details. Another bird of the same feather was Private Robert M. Bidinger, some- times known as "Chubby. " He often complained of the army rations, but Sezenty-six seemed to gain substantially in weight — so much so that it handicapped him. A lady killer by fancy, but a fat man by nature. Another worthy brother is Private Ernest R. Berglund, whose blusterous nature was wont to crop out at any moment. Nevertheless he was a free- hearted fellow and a good friend. f^is principle opponent was Wagoner Howard S. Harvey. They argued long and faithfully on subjects unknown to either, until one was obliged to admit defeat. Unassuming Private William Tarpey, the champion messhound of the squad, often disturbed our peace and quiet by snatching his precious mess kit from its secret hiding place and dashing madly for the mess line. His only prayer was that Uncle Sam would allow him to keep his trusty mess kit as a souvenir of his campaign in France. JVagoncr Howard S. Harvey. Seventy-seven SQUAD NO. 9. Slopey Buxton O. T. Hadley E. Doyle Page Neel Malonc Langc L. Britt Byrne Introducing to you the ninth squad, better known as the "Fighting Ninth." It began its famous career at Newport News, Va., just prior to sail- ing for France. We can still boast of having the original squad, no members having gone w^est or A. W. O. L. We also take pride in having the only two buglers in the company. The habit of acquiring things to make the squad comfortable and keep them in style has long been one of our virtuous qualities. As long as we live w^e can only hold the fondest recollections of our Corporal — Edw^ard J. Doyle. He was never known to utter a cross word to any of us and he w^as aWays ready and willing to help us in any difficulty. He w^as always on the job — always giving good advice and was the direct means of making good soldiers out of all of us. Our love and respect for him knows no bounds. He w^as never officious but was always quiet and gentle in everything he said and did. We have never show^n our apprecia- tion which his merits deserved but we now^ take this opportunity to extend to him our sincerest thanks for all that he has done for us. Our first character is Bugler Charles C. Buxton, "Mexican War Veteran," lovingly known to the squad as "Wampus, the Warsaw Terror," but better known to the boys in the company as "Buck." His inexhaustible stock of original witticisms and humor has always afforded the boys much amusement. In the fine arts of bugling and wrestling our boy "Wampus" has no peer. The next sketch is our noble bugler born of fighting blood w^hose nom de plume is Edward S. Lange, better known as "Sam." For advice and to settle disputes we all go to Sam. He can sure give advice and settle all ques- tions to the satisfaction of those concerned. Besides being a bugler and father of pur squad he is a great experimenter w^ith cartouches, powder fuses, Seventy-eiglit primers and machine guns. Although the smaller of the two buglers, Sam can certainly hold his own with ease. Favorite expression, "Evidently." The soldier's tw^entieth century style of going to bed to keep warm and be comfortable was invented by Wagoner Orrin T. Hadley ( "O. T. "). The process consists of donning the overcoat, raincoat, jerkin, mackinaw^ and coal-man's hat, pulled down over the ears, sitting upright on the bed, placing the blankets over the feet in three counts and on the fourth count grabbing the blankets w^ith the right hand, lying down and covering the head on the fifth count. Great care should be taken that no part of the uniform becomes disarranged during the operation. Spirals must be worn. Many of us thought him to be too high and mighty to associate w^ith on account of his dad being a Brigadier General. But it didn't take us long to find out that he was a regular guy and one of the boys in every w^ay. We refer to good old Harold — Wagoner H. M. Page — know^n to all as "H. M., " the best maker of chocolate fudge in the Train. As a cartouche expert H. M. could not be beat — not even by Sam Lange, and that's saying some- thing. His abilities as a driver need no support. We now have an ex-Pioneer Infantryman, Private Wm. E. Malone, and w^e think there is no better soldier in the whole company. "Mac" is a slum- berer of the Rip Van Winkle type and we believe that he will be a great help to his mother for w^hen it comes to sawing w^ood w^e never saw "Mac's" equal. The "little ole boy " from Oklahoma, Private Henry Elvin Neel, is known to all far and near as "Okla." His coon songs sung in his silvery tenor voice bring back memories of Wadsworth days and have been the means of driving away many cases of homesickness. In his capacity of a past member of the Knights of the Road, "Okla's" stories of adventure have afforded us many hours of pleasure around our "HI' ole squad stove. " The "tailor's delight" now^ makes his appearance in the shape of Private William J. Byrnes. He stands four feet high in his hobnail "dogs" and bears the name of "Shorty." As a good little soldier he ranks high in the esteem of all and when it comes to work we have yet to see the man who can wrestle a "Dixie" or a greasy pot with more willingness and energy than our little "Shorty." Next comes the "Spring ville Warbler, " Private Donald Slopey, better known as "Don," and acknowledged by all to be the star singer of the squad. After witnessing his exhibition of "Hootchie Kootchie" dancing it behooves us to state that he is in a class by himself. He will always be remembered by the boys not only as a rabid baseball enthusiast but also as our best man on the initial sack. Last but not least we have Private Leo A. Britt, known to intimate friends as "Oleo," but to the boys in the company as "Dog Robber" because he is a member of the "Royal Order of First Aid to Officers." As an original rumor hound "Oleo" makes a Colonel's orderly turn green with envy. We expect to see "Oleo " as head of an intelligence bureau. FINALE. At last we enter upon the final lap of our journey. Our work is com- pleted. Soon the boys will be mustered out, each one departing for his home. With this thought in mind, and it grieves me to recall it, my desires prompt me to express the utmost gratitude and admiration for the members of my squad. No matter whether at work or on the drill field it was their idea of faithfulness and pride in the "Ninth" that ever kept them from doing naught but their best. Corporal Edward J. Doyle Seventy-nine SOUAD NO. 10. Stott St. Pierre Caup Balisccwski L. J. Clark Patchki Christian Wcrninth Frcas The tenth squad ■was organized preparatory for overseas service at Camp Stuart, Newport News, Va., w^here several new^ men w^ere added to the old squad. With this final reorganization the squad went overseas, did its work and, with the exception of one man who left us at Verdun, returned intact. Corporal Howard Christian, called "Christy," takes pride in the fact that there are at least five nations represented in his squad — "The Foreign Legion." Wagoner Walter Wermuth, sometimes known as "Judge," was one of the main supports of the squad. Every evening the boys of the squad w^ere after him for stories and he sure could tell them. Clarence Stott, otherwise known as "O. D.," had the distinction of being the shortest man in the company. He was also some song bird and as a yodeler was unequalled. Felix Patelski, "Pat" for short, comes from Michigan where he left a threshing machine of which he thought as much of as we did of the girls we left behind us. LeRoy Clark hails from the shores of Lake Huron. Roy has taught us all how to catch fish, for he surely is an artist in those lines. Frank St. Pierre, better known as "Saint," is the oldest man in the squad but was w^ith the rest of the boys in work or fun. Speaking of close shaves, Frank can give any man a closer shave than a Boche "ash can." Michel Caup, called "Frenchy," proved the w^orth of a Frenchman in the squad. He acted as our interpreter and when it came to getting things "Mike" brought home the bacon. Eighty Nicholas Freas never answered to anything but "Nic." He was the one noted for his enterprising ways of stirring up fun in the squad. Stanley Balizewiski, known as "Bally," was a seafaring man. "Bally" loved to spin yarns about his career on the briny and it was much fun for us to hear them. William McKnight, "Mac" for short, was a good scout sure enough. He left the company at Verdun when he volunteered his services for the Army of Occupation and left for somewhere in Germany. So the tenth squad comes through the campaign and is always ready for whatever may come — the spirit of "A" Company. Corporal Hozvard R. Christian. Eighty-one SQUAD NO. 11. luird Newman Sicbcrt Fitzsimvwui, Hanna Rauscli Sherman Corbett McLrystlc Corporal John F. Rausch: Johnny has become a great Prohibitionist. He tried to make France dry by consuming the available supply of Vin Blanc. As an after dinner speaker he made quite a success at the Christmas banquet in Laval describing his furlough at Aix le Bains. No one ever discovered how he acquired so many souvenirs but we'll bet he parted with many francs for those large German boots. Wagoner Paul M. Corbett: Old P. M. was so initialed by his parents, we imagine, because he liked to lay in bed until about that time. Outside of being the most indisposed man in the squad he was very industrious. How- ever, in the confines of Syracuse he is very famous as one who trips the light fantastic, plays football and is in general a regular devil. Albert T. Siebert: Here is the luckiest man in the squad, but he never realized it. Preferring to juggle letters instead of shells we found him one day with the title of Assistant to the Assistant Company Clerk. Delmar Hanna: Well known throughout the squad as the Manhattan Banker, also hailing from Canada and California. "Where land and water meet" is his slogan and some day we suppose he will own a bank in Oakland. While sojourning in France he wasted his time running the Tow^n Mayor's office in Montsurs. He is the only casualty of which the squad can boast since he was hurt in a truck accident at the front. Sammy Newman: Palmyra's representative in Company. We be- lieve he must have signed a contract to furnish the populace of his town with letters from the front, for he sent and received more mail than anyone we know. Maybe he answered a matrimonial advertisement. Adelbert Ford: "Lizzie" w^as the greatest boom to our canteen. Every month his entire pay was mortgaged to that establishment. Ford utilized Eigltty-two everybody else's articles thereby keeping his own clean for inspection. His big faux pas was entering the Kitchen as Student Cook. His careful rationing of the beans got on the squads" nerves so they insisted he return to the ranks. Harry Fitzsimmons: We never knew^ much about him as he spent most of his time with "E" Company manicuring mules. He is a regular New Yorker, however, and a good fellow and could tell some interesting stories about Percy Nagle and Bar-le-Duc. Richards McCrystle: The much heralded "Automobile School Grad." (Why a buck private? ) Fat was rather a lot of trouble to the sergeants. For instance the supply sergeant couldn't get clothes large enough for him. "Hoover, King of the Mess," had to draw extra rations for our child and the "Top Kick" was never without a kind word for Mac when dressing up the line, such as, "Pull in that head! You're not reviewing the company. " Harold Sherman: "Pete" is the handicap this private was burdened with while in this company. He is a very reticent chap, except on special occasions, when he has been known to rise to great heights of oratory, recit- ing "Our Nell" and others. Pete says that the energy he expended towards winning this war was as nothing to the trouble he had winding his new spirals. Howard Hughes: "Sleepy" was the eleventh squad's contribution to the Army of Occupation. He was one of the eight volunteers who left us at Verdun, to see Germany via the A. E. F. route. Hughes was a great sleeper. Regardless of location he would fall asleep w^henever the opportunity per- mitted. One time he went to sleep behind a hedge while on detail fighting a large forest fire near Bordeaux. When "Sleepy" awoke the fire had been extinguished and the detail had returned to camp, a distance of about nine kilometers, on motor trucks. This happened about four o'clock in the morn- ing and Howard had to do some tall hiking to arrive in camp before revielle. Eighty-three SQUAD NO. 12. ^^'% Fehrs Bratton Heitzman Campbell Freesc Coughran Heffcryian Church The origin of the twelfth squad dates just prior to our departure from Camp Wadsworth. However, it was reorganized at Camp Stuart and re- mained in pleasant harmony until our service was completed. The following men composed "the tw^elfth: Corporal David Campbell: "Bunk" had the time of his army career while on M. P. duty in Laval. For some unknown reason "Bunk" had to negotiate a high iron fence every night to reach his sleeping apartments. And it is said that on one or two occasions these negotiations nearly fell through. For some time our Corporal sported a pair of shoes resembling sandals which were the envy of the whole company. But cold weather and inspecting officers forced him to salvage them. His songs during the long evenings at the front and in the billets were the joy of the squad — crude perhaps and shakily sung, but a joy nevertheless. Private Archer Church: Archer prepared for his army career by taking a three months course of instruction under the able supervision of Lieutenant "Nifty" McCue in the art of interior guard duty, army slum and detail dodg- ing. Much to the squad's regret, however, he failed to take a course of instruction on the harmonica. This never bothered "Archie" though. Sing- ing was his greatest vice and whether requested or not he was always willing to sing "Most Anything." Private Carl Fehrs: "Hennie" was once upon a time a member of a divisional machine gun unit. This perhaps accounts for his ability to shoot well — in fact anything. His future in Wall Street is assured. Any man who can dig up francs enough to eat "oofs" a week before pay day is a financier of no little ability. Private Thomas Bratton: "Tom ' is a husky Hudson lad who dropped the pitchfork to shoulder a "155." Somewhere in France, Tom adopted a Eighty-four violin, but nevertheless was a popular member of the twelfth. He was a member of that courageous little band who made the world safe for democ- racy at Gercourt. Private Ray Heffernan: Though "Bugs" was the youngest member of the squad he was the possessor of the greatest amount of active life. He held the distinction of being the champion long distance slum swallower of the squad. "Bugs" was a firm believer in that "early to bed" business, but ad- mits he could never see that "early to rise" stuff. Wagoner George P. Heitzman: "Heitz" held the distinction of being the only wagoner in the twelfth. Being a firm believer in capital punishment George started out to punish the capital product of France while sojourning in Orleans. However, Old Man Vin Blanc finally brought George to de-feet. "Heitz" doesn't object to nicknames — in fact he never objected to being called anything except for reveille. George's French sometimes got him into deep places for it was limited to the one word "abri." Private R. J. Freese: "Sister" being a full blooded, one hundred per cent "Apple Knocker" hailing from Newfield, N. Y., was a decided asset to the squad as well as to the company. "Sister's" greatest difficulty throughout the terrible war was trying to get away from cigarettes. This problem was finally solved one pay day when he breezed down the street pushing an eight-inch cigarette holder in front of him. "Sister's" dissipations, especially his talcum powder bats, were most artistic. Private John Coughran: "The Tailor from Texas" was a mild man- nered, nimble fingered lad with the ability to give an issue blouse the appear- ance of a perfect fit. John never could see the idea in hiking until it was explaned to him that hiking increased the appetite. His greatest ambition in the army was to act as permanent right guide on the mess line. Corporal David G. Campbell. Eighty-five SQUAD NO. 13. IV. Britt Fay Jones Hynes Brecht Meigs Gluck Carroll Scaraiigello Heads up! Here comes the thirteenth squad and you'll have to step lively and dodge for they are still going strong. The "Lucky Thirteenth" originated at Camp Stuart, our port of embarkation, and the old numeral superstition was given a new lease of life. We prepared to embark on the 1 3th, there were I 3 ships in the convoy and it took us 1 3 days to cross the pond. Corporal Martin Hynes or "Red," as he is known by his men, rose from the ranks and was made corporal over eight men representing the thirteenth squad. We all admit it was some job to control such a bunch of home- loving men. But old "Huck" was there. Upon our arrival in France the thirteenth soon realized that the drink- ing water was "pas bon" and with francs in hand we were off to the battle of Vin Rouge. The thirteenth's continual tinkle of canteens at Camp de Souge was a silent code and is still a mystery to the "topper." At Camp de Souge, "Frog" Jones was made a w^agoner and aside from his expressionless attitude has been a good bed-mate for our champion mess-hound W. E., or "Flooey," Britt. Orleans was the first large city in which we stopped on our trip overland to the front and while there we almost lost "Our Hero Nell " Fay for the campaign was a little too heavy for him. It was in our shell riddled room at Verdun that "Alma" Gluck started housekeeping by acquiring the bacon in the form of beds, chairs, mirrors, tables, etc. Thus we soon had very pleasant quarters to return to after our nightly trips with food for Fritzie. At this particular point we must mention "Fulton" Carroll who left camp with a quad and returned with a magneto. If Maurice can have a good table to speak from he sure can recite that poem of his entitled "She Threw Me Down and Let Me Lay." Eighty-six We had many stews "a la Gare" made by our able macaroni twister Scarangello who was also the composer of the "Iodine Department." Our souvenir hunters, "Alma" and "Flooey," while on one of their "Exploits of Eloise" found the "petite garcon" Walter Brecht and escorted him to our home. But on cross examination Walter was found to be A. W. O. L. from the twelfth squad and was thereby confined to the thirteenth as honor guest and subject to all details. Being in dire need of an interpreter we were surprised to learn that "Ginsberg" Meigs was more than able to parley French and could make him- self understood by most anyone in fifteen minutes. Our parties with the owners of the billets were few but — oh, how lasting. After leaving Verdun we moved to Belleray where the thirteenth was billeted directly over the kitchen. Wasn't that convenient? Our next move was to Montsurs where we were billeted in a brewery. While there coffee and water were simply out of the question. Our squad was here, there and everywhere while on M. P. duty in Laval. But on our arrival in Bonchamp we were given very comfortable quarters and spent many pleasant hours wondering what to do to kill time until we received those welcome orders "Homeward Bound." Wagoner George A. Fay. Eighlvseven ^^ Capt. CKencg No one can think of Company "A" without thinking of the Remount, for the latter was its mother even as McCue was its father — Lieutenant Frank McCue, who gave the Remount its regimen- tal motto, "Equal to None," w^ith its sub-inscrip- tion, "Last on the Field and First to Leave." But the work the boys did in the Remount days and the training which they unconsciously absorbed, from the gas tanks to the Fair Grounds and back again, has always stood them in good stead and has helped to make them what 1 would call, did not my present sinecure as staff officer forbid, the best company in the regiment and the best com- pany in the army. Colonel Bell's prophecy, made as Captain, that the "Apple Knockers" make the best soldiers has been abundantly fulfilled. If the Remount was our mother and McCue our father, it was certainly Colonel Bell's conception. And, w^ithout going too far in medical terms, let us not forget that the event could never have taken place without the ever ready and active assistance of Mayor Stone, Senator Holden, George Baldwin, Proctor Welch and the editors and entire staff of every paper in the city of Syracuse. These gentlemen, living and dead, have their monuments in what- ever we have done, for without their assistance we could not be. And let us not forget the ladies of the city who gave us everything our comfort de- manded, and more. Old Company "A ' like the rest was an interesting infant, mostly mis- placed hands and feet. It was a sweating process to learn that in the Army "a thing was either black or white — you did it or you didn't — and excuses didn't matter " and rather tough to hear it on cold mornings before break- fast and in the evenings when every minute was needed to make the Spartan- burg car. But they learned it. We lost three boys, one to the double gold stripe of the Navy and the other two to the twin silver bars of the Army. But to the credit of the family love be it said that they almost had to be kicked into accepting commissions. The most salient event in our life was the advent of Captain Olmstead, the only officer I've ever known about whom the chapter "The Beloved Captain, " could have been written. Then, too, were our Christmas boxes from Converse College and from the Auxiliary. Then came Latrina, and Grover. Grover was the beginning of many things. Things were engendered there, the full portent of which was not then realized, and may even yet be in the egg. Later I lost the company and my laundry. Now, I am only what our allies, the British, call a "Brass Hat." Captain Roy A. Chewy Eighty-eight WHAT WE DID At first we signed papers till it made us quite sore; And oh ! ! those examinations — we had them galore. We guarded the railroads for twelve hours straight, And had to beg for a pass when we'd fixed up a date. They drilled us as "rookies, " it w^as "one, two" and "hep!" And the sergeants would holler "Hey you! Get in step!" And the Army Regulations — how deep they did sink; For you could get six months for just trying to think. They gave us a mess kit, a knife, fork and spoon. And we had to wash them night, morning and noon. We took what they gave us and learned not to kick For a cook in the army wields the big stick. They stuck a needle in our arms to keep us aWays well ; They called it inoculation but we called it H — 1. They gave us picks and shovels and took us through the woods; ; They said, "We want a road built," and we produced the goods. We did "squads left" and "right," and hiked through water and clay. We did "column right" and "order arms" and marched day after day. Until our feet were blistered and yet we hiked along And v\rhen we saw^ the camp again we sang a happy song. We hauled ammunition right up to the front. We always traveled by night and it surely was some stunt. No lights were on the truck, with mud right to the hub. For forty-eight hours now and then we had darned little grub. We went on these details with never a kick. For Company "As" motto is — "To the last do we stick." While "Jerry" was shelling the roads we w^ere to pass We called him by a pet name and gave her the gas. The Hun on his knees, the armistice signed — Back to the drills and the same old grind. We'd rather do battle with "Jerry" than do "squads left" or "right," For our purpose in crossing the ocean was to drive the Boche back out of sight. We w^aited and w^aited for orders from French shores to sail away. They looked us over for "cooties" — we showed them our clothes every day. We had reviews and inspections until we nearly lost our goats. At the time when this was written we were waiting to climb aboard the boats. ^Corporal L. E. Crane, Bonchavip, France. Eighty-nine Ninety £ ^thlettc BASEBALL Back in July, 1917, when the call was issued for the men who had applied for enlistment in the N. Y. N. G., many of the present members of the company packed their cases and bags, never forgetting to stow away in the corner of that bag a ball glove. Our first camp at Messina Springs, Camp Sumner, afforded the men their first opportunity to display their ability on the diamond. Not many days had passed before each company had one or more teams organized and these teams were soon out for the scalps of other companies. According to schedule we received our second inoculation against typhoid August 19th, 1917. Although warned continually against any activity for twenty-four hours our baseball enthusiasts, considering it neces- sary that the> uphold the honor of the company, staged a game with "C" Company that afternoon. Although the grounds were not the best, the game was hotly contested throughout and the result remained in doubt until the last man was thrown out. It was not long after the game that the men began to feel the effects in their arms and decided never again to disobey the warn- ings of those who knew. During our stay at Pelham Bay very few games were staged as most of our spare time was divided between the bathing beach and the city. Soon after our arrival at Camp Wadsworth a baseball diamond was laid out on the drill field just back of the officers' quarters. Here many games were staged between the different company teams and enthusiasm was soon at a high pitch. With the reorganization of the Train on October 1 3th, old companies 1 and 2, from the start bitter rivals on the diamond, were consolidated form- ing the present "A " Company. The reorganization was highly profitable for baseball, however, as it brought together such men as: Catchers, "Red " Kil- martin, Osca) Manning and "Galloping" Michels; pitchers, "Homely" Al Smith, "Eddie" Doyle, "Doc" Couse and "Nell" Fay; infielders, "Hank" O'Day, "Scops" Carey, "Oskaloosa" Tennis, "Heinie" Gustke, "Phosgene" Grobsmith and Lester Selig; outfielders, "Greaseball" Hoffman, "Pat" Con- way, O. T. and H. A. Hadley and "Suds" Hollenbeck. When banded to- gether th'.s formed a combination hard to beat. Shortly after the reorganization the mettle of the team was shown when they defeated the team representing Battery "A." 104th Field Artillery, and later took the crack team of "B" Battery, 105th Field Artillery, into camp. After a series of games with other teams of the motor battalion we soon had the Traill championship under our belt. We do not offer any excuses for being on the short end of the score, but when the townspeople of Grover, N. C, beat us most of our "stars" were either on furlough or paying considerable attention to the young ladies in the surrounding towns. While at Camp Stuart waiting for orders to embark for "over there" Company "B" of the Train had the idea that for money they could take us into camp. But after the most bitter struggle of our diamond career we romped home with the bacon and the dollars. Gustkes timely hit, the pitch- ing of Doyle and the throwing of Kilmartin all through the game and espe- Ninety-one cially in the ninth inning with two out and their fleet second baseman on first and pinch hitter at bat, all contributed to the defeat of "B" Company. Immediately after the game the boys w^ho had show^ed their confidence in the team by covering all bets offered congregated around the "topper's" office as if it were pay day. Of course we don't like to think that our esteemed officers would be capable of such a practice as betting on a baseball game, but still we noticed that they were on hand with smiling faces when the "dough" was being passed out. Upon our arrival in France we immediately noticed that the level fields which extended for miles around were wonderfully adapted to our great American game. However, our Camp de Souge, owing to the deep sand, proved quite a disappointment. Nevertheless a diamond was laid out and the boys w^ere soon making the best of the conditions. Unbeknow^n to us the officers had had many silent battles as to which of them was the best twirler. This resulted in a game between two picked teams. Captain Olmstead pitching for one and Lieutenant Sweet for the other. Owing to the fact that the "razzing" platoon captured O'Day's "Angora" causing him to drop two flies in the last of the ninth. Lieutenant Sweet nosed out Captain Olmstead by the score of 1 7 to 18. For several days after this our officers were busily engaged in rubbing their arms back to normal size. Soon after this dispute was settled a company league was formed con- sisting of four teams known as the "Goldbricks, " "Lizards," "Messhounds" and "Cooties. " The schedule started on July 12 th and extended to Septem- ber 1st. Three games were staged weekly which were a source of joy and merriment to the entire company. The razzing ability of the non-combatants usually secured one or two victims in every game. Beside the men already mentioned before, there were many others in the company who found places on the teams. Foremost among these were the officers. Captain Olmstead, Lieutenant Donovan and Lieutenant Sweet, who rather dazzled the boys w^ith their activity on the sand lot. One of the many incidents which happened in this wierd series of ours was the spiking of Captain Olmstead on the head by a pair of army "hobs" which were attached to the feet of "Gumshoe " Slack. To see Corporal "Red" Hynes galloping around the fields with arms extended praying for the ball to be hit in the opposite direction was a sight for sore eyes. The "razzing" platoon was always on hand to grab the goats of Doyle, Grobsmith, Michels and O'Day and "Homely Al's" balloon ascensions w^ould make an aviator blush with envy. The wind-up of the league found the "Goldbricks" leading without a defeat chalked against them. The "Lizards" rolled in second with the "Mess- hounds" close upon their heels. The "Cooties" were so far behind that there has been a still hunt for them ever since. Before leaving de Souge we were challenged by the 25th Engineers to a game to be played on their grounds at St. Sulpice. We tucked another vic- tory under our belt, owing to the wonderful pitching of Fay and the good all around playing of the whole team. The final score ended 5 to 1 in our favor. This concluded our baseball activity in France. Written by "Hank," "Nell" and "Phosgene." Ninety-two FOOTBALL. There are few in the company, especially those who have been with it since its days of organization, who will forget the army football games. De- spite the lack of equipment there were many football enthusiasts in the old companies of the Train who formed company teams and sallied forth to do each other battle. And many interesting games resulted. Probably the most exciting of these encounters was the game which took place between old Truck Companies 1 and 2 back in the days at Wadsworth. Both companies had men of varied football experience and each looked upon the other as an outsider when it came to the inside art of the game. Under the leadership of Johnnie Rausch and "Suds'* Hollenbeck a team was formed in Company 1 and straightway a challenge was laid before 2 Company. The latter had several men w^ith more or less experience and under the direction of "Porky" Ryan, "Windy" Smith and "Eddie" Doyle were soon ready to carry on the argument with Company 1 . Both sides showed unbounded con- fidence in their respective teams and much speculation resulted. The game ended with Company 2 on the long end of the score and Company 1 on the long end of the casualty list. Fully half of the latter's men had been carried from the field at some stage of the encounter. Shortly after this game these companies were consolidated to form the present Company and as a result no more games were played. Regimental football claimed our attention then and of the eleven men who represented the Train "A" Company furnished five: Sergeant J. R. Ryan, Corporal D. G. Campbell, Corporal E. J. Doyle, Corporal G. E. Hoffman and Wagoner K. A. Smith. After our arrival in France the question of a football team was again taken up and in spite of the poor grounds afforded by the sand in Camp de Souge some thirty men responded to the call for candidates. Our early order to leave for the front arrived at this time, however, and further plans were suspended. Corporal F. M. Barnard. Ninety-three 'Louie's" Ninety-four THE SUPPLY SERGEANT'S SOLACE I walk up the street with a frown on my face; I've missed reveille and I'm sure out of grace. The sergeant who hollers from back in the rear Has blown me in. I'm in trouble 1 fear. Well, why should 1 worry with Louie's so near? I work on the slips — hear each man's hard luck tale; There are many come in with a sigh and a wail. I near lose my temper and just then 1 think, I'll go over to Louie's and take on a drink. The inspection is near; everything's upside-down; For mess kits and rifles I've searched the whole town. What the captain will say — why the thought makes me shrink. I'll go over to Louie's and get me a drink. The inspection is over; we passed it O. K. Now I've not much to do for the rest of our stay. They tell us we sail soon — we're right on the brink; It might be a rumor, I'll go get a drink. Well, we have hit the old states — what a terrible sight! All the cafes and gin mills are sure nailed up tight. I have bought me a ticket — it took half my chink. But I'm on my way back to Louie's to get me a drink. — Supply Srrgcaiit Carl A. Shafcr. Bouchaiiip, France. Ninety-five THE CANTINE No history of Company "A" would be complete without a mention of our cantine and the splendid work done by Bard in handling it. Started at de Souge the latter part of August, merely as a convenience in the matter of cigarettes and tobacco, it rapidly grew into a life-sized store. In addition to a full stock of everything available in both the Sales Commissary and Y. M. C. A. warehouses, the stocks of the Bordeaux, Paris, London and Bar- le-Duc merchants w^ere tapped for such luxuries as the season provided. At one time our stock boasted of one hundred and thirty-one different articles and in all three hundred and eight kinds of w^ares have been handled regularly at one time or another. And the gross business ran almost seventy thousand francs. On the trip across country w^e took the cantine along and the men were in this w^ay furnished many little luxuries w^hich added much to the meager travel ration. At each new^ camp the cantine w^as promptly opened up and the country scoured clean of smokes and delicacies as far as a truck could travel. And Bard, sitting in the rain, on top of a truck load of eats became a common sight. When there w^as no truck available he often walked many miles so that we might have the things to w^hich w^e had become accustomed. A liberal credit system tided over the long, lean weeks between pay days and any man w^ho w^ent w^ithout smokes and eats did it from choice. He could, at almost any time, buy anything from butter to a Croix de Guerre. Now that it is all over and w^e look back at things from a different view- point we realize that, in comparison to other outfits, we had it pretty soft and that it wasn't such a bad war after all. And the cantine had a very large part in making life more bearable. Bard didn't get the D. S. C. for his work, most of which was done in the face of almost insurmountable obstacles and heart-breaking disappoint- ments. But he has w^on the undying gratitude of the one hundred and forty men whom he so unselfishly and untiringly served. Liculenant A. C. Donovan. Ninety-six DAWN. That "familiarity breeds contempt" is a saying old and true and it may be that it is no less true that constant association dulls the perceptions until we came to accept with but a passing word, if any word at all, experiences that in the old days would probably have made a deep impression upon us. In those days it may have been our experience to see the daybreak, but upon these, probably rare occasions, our chief thought was to get back home as fast as possible and secure some much needed rest. Never did we think that in a distant part of the world the stage was being set upon which we were to witness many dawns different from any that we had ever thought upon. Dawns that would find us so physically weary, after many long hours of am- munition hauling, that we were content to resign our safety to the equally exhausted driver and, curling up on the floor of a truck or on top of a load of shells or powder, drop oflF into a deep sleep that the jolting of the truck or the crash of exploding shells near at hand would have in power to disturb. Perhaps again, though just as weary, we rode on the seat of the truck and from that vantage point viewed the unfolding of the day. The line of batteries, each gun under its camouflage, its crew active as it prepared the shells for the constant tiring that so often greeted the rising of the sun, the battery officers calmly giving their orders and laying their pieces, the row^s and piles of shells we had so arduously hauled from far in the rear to their places at the side of the guns, the stack of powder boxes sheltered by iron roofs to protect them from danger. The winding road skirting the foot of the hill which afforded protection to the batteries, a road constantly filled with two-way traffic, trucks, teams, motorcycles and men, a stream of motion never ceasing except when some vehicle met with a mishap and had to be speedily put in action once more, a road deep in mud, slippery and greasy with many shell holes, ruts and bad places — a road to walk upon which was equivalent to being mud covered from head to toe as the passing trucks splashed along. The river, narrow, winding with its spreading, marshy lowland and its paralleling canal, once a scene of activity but now with its tow-paths torn and broken, a few of its barges tied to the banks and deserted until a fairer day should dawn; its rows of trees on each bank, trees that were once tall and beautiful, holding their heads well up and forming a border of shade the en- tire length of the waterway. Such trees, however, no longer, their foliage gone long since, denuded of limbs, their tops splintered and torn by the incessant shelling they have undergone, their beauty gone forever, their sole use now being as supports for telephone and telegraph w^ires, but w^ith their gaunt and stark outlines softened in the gray light of dawn by the rising inist from the canal, their broken tops still shrouded from view, their utter destruction half veiled in the mj'stical light of the early day, their outlines, like a Corot, more to be guessed at than seen. The horses and rnules picketed on the flat between the road and the canal munch their hay and look anxiously forward to their grain, all except a few who seem to be still resting, stretched full length on the ground, head thrown back and given wide berth by their neighbors. Mute testimony that some of the night's shelling has been productive of more than sleep disturbing noises. The rolling kitchens, by the side of the road, each sending up its little column of smoke, tended by its cook, too busy with the preparation of the morning meal even to notice us as we pass by, lend a humanizing touch to the morning which is sadly needed after viewing the desolation wrought. The Niiicty-sci'cii sight of a soldier crawling out of his hole in the hillside above the road, stretching arms and body after the cramped slumber of the night, plunging his head into a bucket of water to thoroughly awaken himself, the sight of pup tents, of dugouts, of elephant iron shelters and of figures wrapped in blankets and stretched on the ground, all show the presence of many more men than would be at first realized. The shadowy form of an M. P. standing at a road junction, with gas mask in the alert position and helmet on head shows that even out here the traffic regulations are enforced and they are indeed more stringent than back behind the line. The opening of a dugout behind him and the torn up condi- tion of the cross-roads show that protection against shelling must be ready at hand and that shelling is frequent and intense. The faint smell of gas lurking in the lower parts of the road makes one reach to see that his gas mask is properly adjusted and ready for instant donning and drowsiness is fought off so that in the event of running into a concentration of gas the alarm may be given instantly to the sleeping men in the truck. Beyond the cross-roads and off to the right, well back across the fields appears a mass of masonry, indistinct in the early light but which upon closer view would prove to be the ruins of a small town. Houses torn apart by the shells, roofs in, the cellars filled up level with ground or heaping over with debris from the upper story of the house. A bit of camouflage road leads towards the town, running across the open fields from the main highway but blending so perfectly with the surrounding ground that in the pale light it might be well overlooked. Past the Red Cross station nestled against the side of the cliff, silent but for the cooks moving about their fires, the ambulances drawn up on either side of the road, ready for the calls for their services which the coming day will so surely bring. Ambulances of varying sizes but all of them staunch and serviceable, capable of holding four stretcher patients and as many slightly wounded men as can crawl upon the seat with the driver, on the run- ning boards and fenders, ambulances that demand the right of way when going to the front and which come back in streams after a big drive loaded with their freight of wovmded, pushing steadily towards the dressing stations, dodging in and out of traffic, each driver careful of his precious load, avoiding shell holes when possible and easing the car into them when impossible to avoid. Down past former battery positions once occupied by the French but now deserted by the guns which are well forward of that point, the battery dugouts vacant or tenanted by some of those French troops who seem to be spread out all over the countryside, apparently working independently but nevertheless part of the big scheme of things. The rise of the road brings us to the top of a long and steep descent, the road built on the shoulder of the hill, exposed to the shelling of the enemy and camouflaged its entire length from the top of the hill to the bottom, the surface dug and scarred here and there but kept in repair by the engineers constantly at work. From the bottom of the hill runs, at a sharp angle, another road straight through a valley leading up towards the lines of the enemy, the high hills affording pro- tection from one direction but none from another and as we watch through the camouflage on our hill we can see the puff of smoke rising and then the explosion as high explosives break on the crest of the hill opposite us, throw- ing up masses of earth and stone but ever striking short of their mark, the cross-roads. The small but constantly enlarging cemetery alongside the road as we near the foot of the hill, its plain wooden crosses and tin wreaths at the head of the graves of the French and the crosses and no wreaths on the American graves, keeps ever in our minds the stern duty upon which we are engaged and as we near that point of the trip beyond which the shelling Ninety-eight seldom concentrates, we breathe a sigh of thankfulness that once more we have come through unscathed another night of danger. Familiarity does breed contempt and constant association does dull the perceptions, but deep in our subconsciousness we store up memories of scenes such as these, perhaps unknowingly adding to them front day to day and night to night, surprising ourselves in later days, when at some chance word, we produce recollections of events that at the time of experiencing we accepted as plain ordinary happenings. Captain H. N. Olmstcad. THE LOST TRAIN I stood on the bridge at midnight — Twas the bridge o'er Forges Creek; And I cursed my luck, for my truck was stuck Where it couldn't get out for a week. I sighed for that dear old Paris, New York and Chicago as well ; And I cursed the Hun who fired that gun And the fate that had guided that shell. For two hours I tried to move it. Then found that it couldn't be done; Though we sw^eated and toiled, the transmission was spoilf^d, And the motor refused to run. With five hundred boxes of gas shells, I had bravely set forth that night; For the order I read, as I climbed out of bed. Said "gas" by my pale candle light. Of the twenty I had when I started, This truck was my one last chance; For the rest had died, by the rough road side. Died gloriously for France! By moonlight 1 tramped to Headquarters, And told what had just come to pass; Then they sure got my goat, v/hen they showed me this note: "Send H. E. instead of the gas"! — Licittciunit A. C. Dotiovi Nincty-niiw A LETTER FROM COMPANY A MEN IN THE ARMY OF OCCUPATION. Co. D, 308th Ammunition Train, Bordeaux, France, March 15, 1919. Capt. H. N. Olmstead, 569 Madison St., Brooklyn, N. Y„ Dear Captain: Sergeant J. H. Ryan, in a letter recently requested me to trace the activities of the eight ex-Company "A" men, who left the 102nd Ammunition Train at Verdun, from the time they were separated from the organization until the present date. He also asked that I forward my answer to you. Although I have never claimed the authorship of any gems of journalistic endeavor, I will attempt to fulfill his request. As you w^ill remember, w^hen volunteers for the Army of Occupation w^ere sought, the following eight men responded: Lynn M. Hakes, Richard Mahaney, Elmer G. Edwards, William McKnight, Loran Johnson, Frederick Conklin, Howard L. Hughes and myself. We left Verdun and our parent organization, the 102nd, on the evening of November 15th. Traveling via the well-known and justly famous Quads, w^e reached the village of Liny, some thirty kilometers north of Verdun, shortly before midnight on the 15 th. After the usual amount of "army stalling ' and the unraveling of at least a mile of red tape, we were assigned to the 308th Ammunition Train, an Ohio unit, originally a part of the 83rd Division, but at that time with the 32nd Division. With the excepton of Mahaney and Johnson, all of the 152nd men were assigned to Company "D ' of the 308th. Mahaney and Johnson drew Company "C." Inasmuch as the 32nd was one of the three divisions chosen to take the lead in the march to the Rhine, two days after our assignment to the 308th we found ourselves on our way to the land of the Hun and proud that w^e w^ere privileged to participate in that history-making march. Crossing that part of France where the final battles of the war were staged, we passed over the French border into Belgium on the night of November 20th. We were billeted that night in Athus, where the Belgians tendered us quite a reception, hailing us, the first American troops to enter the city, as the "saviours of Belgium." Four more days' marching brought us to Eschweiler, Luxembourg, where we were given a week's rest. Here Corporal Hakes was taken ill and evacu- ated to a base hospital. We left Eschw^eiler on December 1 st and that date also marked our so- called invasion of the enemy territory. For at 4:30 o'clock on the afternoon of that day, we crossed the line into Germany at Echternach, Luxembourg. On December 1 0th, we reached Obermendig, Germany, five miles south of the Rhine River. Here w^e w^ere billeted for three days. At 1 o'clock on the evening of December I 3th, incidentally, a Friday, we were called out of bed and ordered on the trucks. "Tonight we cross the Rhine," we w^ere told. And we did. At 2 o'clock on the morning of the 14th, the 308th's convoy of trucks rumbled across the Neuw^eiv bridge, constructed by British prison labor over the stream w^hose castles have featured so much history and fiction. An hour later, we drove into the village of Heimbach, eighteen kilo- meters from Coblenz, and were informed that this was to be our "home* during our stay in the Army of Occupation. One Hundred We remained in Heimbach five weeks, engaged principally in hauling supplies from Coblenz to the surrounding cities and villages where troops were billeted. On January 18th, the glad news that the 107th Ammunition Train was to relieve us was announced. The following day we boarded train one of the forty-hommes-and-eight-chevaux type — at Sayn and, traveling down the valley of the Moselle River and through Alsace into France, we arrived here on the 23rd of January. Since then we have been engaged in doing two things — hiking and wait- ing for orders to embark for the Statute of Liberty. Edwards, McKnight, Conklin, Hughes and myself are still with "D" Company and Mahaney and Johnson w^ith "C." All join me in sending you highest regards. Sincerely, S::i^aia^, fff '^^^.A^L^^^^ r^^^^^^ee-Ti^^ /tU^;3^pt- /Ce^-('''^-i-'^.<-i^4z r '^cyy^-M'-'^-^^ — One Hundred One A TRAIN OF THOUGHT We run the trucks with all our might And haul the ammunish; And those who wished to see the fight Have surely had their wish. We haul by night, w^e haul by day , On roads knee deep with mud; We dodge the shells which round us play, Both H. E., gas and dud. We haul it up the steepest hills, Then haul it dow^n as w^ell ; We haul it over rocks and rills, While Hamlin raises Hell. A beggar's lot is always ours — Both food and drink we bum; Some nights we sleep for ten long hours. But those nights seldom come. If shells they lack, they bawl us out; "More trucks!" they shout, "And hurry!" Our trucks are missing — w^recked no doubt. So really w^e should w^orry. The Boche is done — the Lord be praised! We surely are in luck; For one more week of this Hell raised, And we wouldn't have a truck. So gather round the festive fire And sing this sweet refrain: Blest be the day when w^e retire With our Ammunition Train. -Lieutenant A. C. Donovan. Verdun, November 12, 1918. One Hundred Two A review of the services performed by Company "A, ' 102nd Ammuni- tion Train, U. S. A., lends to but one thought — efficiency commencing the first day a spirit of esprit de corps was initiated and continued to grow^, so that during the active operation at the front and later the trying monotony of the time after the 1 1 th of November, this organization gave at all times 1 00 per cent service, and by reason of the discipline always shown were selected for many difficult assignments, each one well performed. Too much praise can not be given Captain Harold N. Olmstead, Lieuten- ants Homer K. Sw^eet and Albert C. Donovan for their untiring and unselfish w^ork and interest on behalf of the members of Company "A. " Alw^ays w^ill linger in my memory the co-operation given me by these officers and men of w^hich it has alw^ays been a pleasure to have under my command. - — Licutcnani-Colo)icl Walter L. Bell, Field Artillery, American Expeditionary Forces. One Hundred Three ronolodi^ Organization of Companies "1" and "2, S. A. S Train, in Syracuse Moved to first camp, Messina Springs Arrived Pelham Bay, New York City Paraded in New York Left Pelham Bay Arrived Camp Wadsworth, S. C Companies "1" and "2" consolidated forming pany ..... Captain Olmstead took command of Company Moved to Grover Returned to Camp Wadsworth Left Wadsworth Arrived Camp Stuart, Newport News, Vc Embarked for France Sailed Attacked by Subs Landed in Brest, France Left Brest Arrived Camp de Souge Left Camp de Souge for Front Arrived at Front Drive Opened Moved to Le Claire Moved to Verdun Armistice Signed Move d to Belleray Left Belleray Arrived at Montsurs Moved to Laval Arrived Bonchamp Reviewed by General Pershing Left Bonchamp Arrived Brest Sailed from Brest Landed at Hoboken Arrived Camp Merritt Left Camp Merritt Paraded in New York Arrived at Camp Upton Mustered Out Ammunition June 30, 1917 Aug. 11, 1917 Aug, 22, 1917 Aug. 30, 1917 Sept. 6, 1917 Sept. 9, 1917 • ..^.. • Com- Oct. 13, 1917 Oct. 21, 1917 Dec. 30, 1917 Feb. 11-15, '18 May 18, 1918 May 19, 1918 June 14, 1918 June 15, 1918 June 16, 1918 June 27, 1918 July 2, 1918 July 3, 1918 Sept. 7, 1918 Sept. 16, 1918 Sept. 26, 1918 Oct. 12, 1918 Oct. 23, 1918 Nov. 11, 1918 Nov. 28, 1918 Dec. 10, 1918 Dec. 13, 1918 Dec. 22, 1918 Dec. 29, 1918 Jan. 30, 1919 Feb. 25, 1919 Feb. 26, 1919 Mar. 3, 1919 . ' Mar. 11, 1919 Mar. 11, 1919 Mar. 24, 1919 Mar. 25, 1919 Mar. 26, 1919 April 3, 1919 One Hundred Four ©erttles d J3tdevdeiitents art Being an account of the service ol the 1 02nd Ammunition Train taken from the record of service as published in Bulletin No. I, Headquarters, 52nd Field Artillery Brigade, American Expeditionary Forces, under date of Janu- ary 2, 1919. BATTLE. Meuse-Argonne Offensive (on west bank of the Meuse, between Bethin- court, Forges, Gercourt and Dannevoux), September 26th, 1918. This was a prepared attack. The 33rd Division was the right Division of the 111. U. S. Corps, which w^as the right Corps of the First American Army. The 80th Division w^as on our left, and the units of the 1 7th French Corps occupied the sector to the right of the First American Army, but made no infantry attack. The 33rd Division carried all its. objectives, including the Hagen Stellung, and organized the sector for defense along the west bank of the Meuse from Dannevoux to Forges. During this attack, the 2 1 2 R. A. C, French (9 Batteries), and the Second Battalion 308 R. A. L., French (3 Bat- teries), were attached to the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade. MINOR ACTION. Meuse-Argonne Offensive, Forges, Consenvoye, Dannevoux, Meuse River Sector, September 2 7th to October 2nd, 1918. This action consisted of holding the right flank of the First American Army along the w^est bank of the Meuse River from Forges to the westerly edge of the Bois de le Cote Lemont during its organization for defense by the 33rd Division under continual observed artillery fire. ENGAGEMENT. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Attack on Brieulles, October 3rd to 7th, 1918. This attack was the continuation of an attack by the First American Army, participated in by the 4th Division on our left, supported by the artillery fire of the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade. The Trench du Teton, just south of Brieulles, a strongly held field work, and the enemy works in the town of Brieulles itself, had prevented the advance of the 80th Division for several days. The 80th Division had been replaced by the 4th Division for the purpose of the attack. The position was taken and enabled the troops of the First American Army to the w^est of Brieulles to advance in the direction of Dun-sur-Meuse. The 102nd Trench Mortar Battery transported ammuni- tion to battery positions w^ith its motor equipment. BATTLE. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Attack on Bois de Chaume, Bois Plat-Chene and Consenvoye, October 8th- 13th, 1918. This was a prepared attack by the 1 7th French Corps, Maior-General Claudel commanding, to which Corps the 33rd Division and the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade were transferred for the purpose of the attack, and were on the left flank. The 29th Division was on our right and the 80th Division, III U. S. Corps, on our left. The original plan called for the participation of one Battalion of the 32nd Infantry, supported by the Machine Gun Bat- talions, the Artillery being organized into a grouoment, consisting of the 1 04th Field Artillery, Second Battalion of the 105th Field Artillerv, and the Second Battalion of the 1 06th Field Artillery, under command of Colonel Emery T. One Hundvcd Fh>e Smith, 1 06th Field Artillery, for the direct support of the attack, the re- mainder of the Brigade being at the disposal of the Division Commander for additional artillery support. As the attack progressed, the amount of oppo- sition which developed required the reinforcement of the attacking troops by the entire 60th Infantry Brigade, supported by all the Machine Gun Bat- talions, under the command of Brigadier-General Wolfe, which Brigade was subsequently relieved by the 65th Infantry Brigade under command of Brig- adier-General King. The Infantry of the 33rd Division on three successive days carried its attack to its objective opposite Giselher Stellung, but was ordered each time to retire, to make contact with the 29th Division on its right, which had been unable to overcome the strong enemy opposition in the Bois de Consenvoye, Bois de la Grande Montague and Bois d' Ormont. During this battle over 5,000 prisoners were captured by the 1 7th French Corps. The 1 02nd Trench Mortar Battery was in reserve and transported ammunition to battery positions with its motor equipment. BATTLE. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Attack on Heights of the Grande Montagne, France, October 1 4th, 1918. This was a prepared attack by the 29th Division on the Height? of the Grande Montagne, which was supported by the fire of the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade, and was intended to push forward the line of that Division to the objective previously attained by the 33rd Division. The 26th Division In- fantry (French) was on the right of the 29th Division. The enemy strongly opposed every attack, and but slight advance was made by the American troops, who sustained heavy losses through machine gun and artillery fire. MINOR OPERATION. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Vilosnes, Sivry, Bois de Chaume Line, Oc- tober 15-21, 1918. This action consisted of supporting the 33rd Division in holding and organizing the position attained by them and held under heavy observed artillery fire continuing day and night. In addition to the work of supply- ing ammunition to battery positions with its motor equipment, the 1 02nd Trench Mortar Battery had four guns in action during the night of October 20-21, 1918, in an attach on Vilosnes. RELIEF. On October 21st the 33rd Division was relieved by the 15th French Colonial Division and the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade was relieved by the Divisional Artillery of this Division. The Brigade then proceeded to rest areas, as follows: Headquarters, 52nd Field Artillery Brigade Dieue 1 04th Field Artillery Bois de Cinq Freres 105th Field Artillery Bois la Ville 1 06th Field Artillery Bois la Ville 1 02nd Ammunition Train Fauberg Pave, V'^erdun 102nd Trench Mortar Battery Fauberg Pave, Verdun On October 25th, the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade was detached from the 33rd Division and attached to the 79th Division. The 52nd Field Artil- lery Brigade, as part of the 79th Division, took over the Grande Montagne sector on the east bank of the Meuse, occupied by the 29th Division, the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade relieving the 158th Field Artillery Brigade on the nights of October 28-29 and 29-30, 1918. MINOR ACTION. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Grande Montagne, Belleu Bois, and Bois d'Ormont Sector, October 29-November 1-2, 1918. One Hundred Six This action consisted of holding the Grande Montagne, Belleu Bois, Bois d'Ormont front Hne under continual artillery and machine gun fiire, which direct observation from the enemy positions in Haraumont and Bois d'Ormont. The Brigade was supporting the 79th Division, which was in the 1 7th French Corps. The 1 5 th Colonial French Division was on its left and the 26th U. S. Division on its right. The III U. S. Corps was on the left of the 1 7th French ^°'P^- BATTLE. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Dun-sur-Meuse, France, November 1-2-3 1918. This was a prepared attack by the 111 U. S. Corps to advance the line held by them along the Cunel-Brieulles Road and further to the west of the Meuse and from Brieulles to Dun-sur-Meuse to the north, which resulted in the forcing of the enemy off the heights on the west bank of the Meuse. The attack was supported by a demonstration fire by the 52nd Field Artillery Brigade. BATTLE. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Attack on Haraumont Ridge and Borne du Cornouiller, France, November 4-7, 1918. This battle was started by a reconnoissance in force by the 1 58th Infantry Brigade in the direction of Borne du Cornouiller, and tw^o reconnaissances in force by the 15 7th Infantry Brigade in the direction of Bois de la Grande Montagne, toward Reville and Etraye, in conjunction with the attack on the left by the 1 5th Colonial French Division, and developed into an engagement involving the entire 158th Infantry Brigade and a large part of the 15 7th Infantry Brigade. After repeated attacks on the Borne du Cornouiller, the enemy was forced to retire, and the 79th Division, pivoting on their right, advanced their left to Sollerino Farm, connecting up with the 1 5th D. 1. C. F., w^hich had crossed the Meuse at Vilosnes, taken Haraumont Ridge and reached the farm. The 79th Division in this advance broke through the Gieselher Stellung and the Kriemheld Stellung. BATTLE. Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Operations resulting in the capture of Reville, Etraye and Crepion, November 8th, 1918. This was an advance by the 79th Division through the Bois de la Grande Montagne, Bois d'Etrayes, Bois de Wavrille, Belleu Bois, Bois de Chene, and Bois d'Ormont, resulting in the capture of the towns of Reville, Etraye, Wav- rille and Crepion. On November 7th, the 11 Colonial French Corps took com- mand of the troops formerly constituting the 1 7th French Corps, General Clautel remaining in command of the II Colonial French Corps. BATTLE. Beause-Argonne Offensive. Operations against Cote du Romagne, Cote du Morimont, and Cote du Chateau, November 9-H, 1918. This was an advance by the 79th Division, including an attack on the high, abrupt Hills 328, 319, Cote du Morimont and Cote du Chateau, rising from the plains east of the Tinte Brook, opposite Damvillers, w^hich were strongly prepared positions in the Kriemheld Stellung, dominating the plains and held w^ith aggressive persistence by the enemy because of their strategic importance. The 15 7th Infantry Brigade succeeded in capturing Hills 328 and 319. The 158th Infantry Brigade was obliged to attack the Cote d'Orne (Hill 356). although outside of its sector, because of its dominating position on their left flank and made four successive attacks thereon without effect- ing its capture. The action was in full progress upon the termination of hos- tilities bv the armistice going into effect at 1 1 o'clock, November 1 1 th. 1918. The 15th Colonial Infantry Di^'ision French was on the left and the 26th U. S. Division on the right of the 79th Division. 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(0 O X 3 (0 UJ i; D- cn c c/icn "IJ ft) ^ to o z • ^ >: ^'^' ^ w c M ^ "^ •2' =" Ji OO oO G^ en O < Z — O^ — u^ \0 <^ O^ (^ <^ c^ c^ c<^ 0^ — (vj (vi — (N — — fN (VI ?^ ^ * 4J ^ 4- 4J >>'E c8 cC C (J (C (J y (0 a, ss4os_o o:^< QO CO t^ r^ QC t^ t^ 00 00 QN 0^ ^^ 0^ 0^ ^ o^ 0^ TT 00* r^" ^ c^ " c^^'o'^" rsi fvj — {vq ,— r-1 CO ^^ — . ,^ *n (^ t^'C >-; >, >, )-i 'c a tc-^ a tc ~ -- ns a -i ^iZiZ ■M *J ™ C ■*-' -^ (C CO a "^ "^ D _> > ^ W).4J £ Sf > > Q- - c c^ ^ c re c • ^ O u t: ^> .i: _c b 1-, — , J^ >-i CO jr; (C ^-5 -H d ^ 6 ^7 >> c >-< o o nj tC 1) j3 3 ^^ HHHHH> 3 a MEN SOMETIME MEMBERS OF COMPANY A. Adams, Geo. H Sergeant Mechanic Austin, Hugh C Private, Lirst Class Barzee, Alva First Sergeant Biron, Gilbert Private Cheney, Roy A First Lieutenant Farrar, Hayden W Private Frey, Robt. J Private Frizzel, Chas Second Lieutenant Gerhart, Leslie Private Hardy, Rex Private Horn, Henry Private Huth, Robert Private Jackson, Bert K Mechanic Kearney, Philip J Second Lieutenant Kelley, James M Cook Krigger, Augustus* Private, First Class Lothridge, Chas Private, First Class Mosher, Robert Private, First Class Murphy, Daniel C Private, First Class Ogglesby, Howard Private, First Class Quinn, Wm. H Private, First Class Rowlands, Thos. A Private, First Class Selig, Lester N First Sergeant Strodel, Norbert J ■ Private Taylor, Westley A Private *Traiisf erred to Aviatioi and killed in action. One Hundred Fifteen INDEX Adams. G. H 115 Adamson, E. L 17, 62, 63, lOS Air raids 31, 32 Alpine landing' 52 Argonne 34, 37, 105, 106, 107 Armistice 46, 104, 107 Athus lO'O Austin, H. C 115 Auxiliary of Syracuse 10, 88 Balevcourt 33 Baliszewski, S, F SO, 81,108 Barbezieux 29 Bard, C. M 40, 48, 71, 74, 75, 96, 108 Bar-le-Duc 31, 32 Barnard, F. M 8, 10, 68, 93 108 Barry, B. J 68, 69, 108 Barzee, A 115 Baseball 14, 91, 92 Battles 105, 106, 107 Bell, Col. ^V. L 8, 9, 88, 103 Bellera V 47, 104 Bennett. E. C 66, 67, 108 Berglund, E. R 76, 77, 108 Bethincourt 34, 105 Bidinger, R. M 76, 77, 108 Biron. G 115 Blackburg 11 Blois 30 Boettcher, W. A 72, 73, 108 Bois de Belleu 106, 107 Bois de Chaume 105, 106 Bois de Cinq Freres 106 Bois de Consenvoye 106 Bois de la Cote Lemont 105 Bois d' Etrayes 107 Bois de la Grande Montag:ne 106, 107 Bois de Nixeville 32 Bois d' Ormont 106, 107 Bois de Plat Chene 105 Bois de Sartelles 33 Bois de Ville 33, 106 Bois de Wavrille 107 Bonchamp 6, 49, 104 Bonneau 23, 25 Bordeaux 23, 28, 29 Boine du Cornouiller 107 Brabant 42, 44 Bras 42, 44 Bratton, T 84, 85, 108 Brecht, W. W 86, 87, 108 Brest 21, 22, 2.3, 49, 50, 51, 104 Brieulles 105, 10« Britt, L. A 38, 78, 79, 108 Britt, W. E 86, 108 Bunce, A. L 72, 73, 108 Burke, F. J 74. 75, 108 Burrows, J. B 29, 62, 63, 108 Buxton, C. C 78, 79, 108 Bvrne, W. J 78, 79, 108 Cacenski, R 72, Cafe Fricot 49, Camp Custer Camp Goidon Camp "Katz Fur" Camp Merritt Camp de Soug^e 23, 25 to 29, 92, Camp Stuart 17, 19, Camp Fpton Camp Wadsworth 9 to 16, 61, Campbell, D. G 8. 10. 84, 85, Canteen, The 47, Carey, T. J 72. Carolina 10 Carroll, M. J Caup, M Charnv 33, 37, Chattancourt 33. Cheney. Capt. R. X 8. 10, 15, Christensen, A. N 60, Christian. H. R 80, Christmas Chronology Church, A. E 8, 10, 15, Clark, J. J 19, 66 73, 109 94, 95 17, 49 ... 18 ... 13 51, 104 93, 104 91, 104 53. 104 91, 104 93, 109 48, 96 91, 109 to 15 86, 109 80, 109 42, 44 34, 35 88, 115 61, 109 81, 109 10, 48 . .. It)4 84, 109 ,67, 109 Clark. L. J 80, 109 Coblenz 100, 101 Collins, L. H 70, 109 Company B. 102 A. T.'. 91 Conklin, F 63, 100, 101, 109 Consenvoye 37, 42, 105 Converse 11 Converse College 10, 8S Conway, J. J 72, 91, 109 "Cooties" 47 Corbett, P. M 82, 109 Cote de Chateau 107 Cote du Morimont 107 Cote d' Orne 107 Coughran, J. M 84, 85, 109 Couhe-Verac 30 Couse, A. H 64, 65, 91, 109 Cowpens 11 Crane, L. E 24, 62, 63, 89, 109 Creplon 107 "Crown Princess Cecile" 51 Cuisy 36 Cumieres 33 Curtis. E. A 62. 63. 109 •Czar" 19 to 22 ■Dale. R. L 25. 66, 67, 109 Dale, R. W 60, 61, 109 Damvillers 107 Dannevoux 105 "Dante Aigrette" 19 Death Vallev 42, 46 "De Kalb" 19 Dieue 107 Dodson, J. W 66, 67, 109 Douamont 42 Donovan, Lieut. A. C. 26, 32. 40. 49, 54, 55, 92, 96, 99, 102, 103, 109 Dovlp, E. J 78, 79, 91, 92, 93, 109 Doyle, G. J 70, 71, 109 Dugny ; . . 47 Dumont 51 Dun 10-5, 107 Dunham, H 58, 59, 110 Echternach 100 Fdwards, E. G 37, 76, 100, 101, 110 Embarkation 19, 51, 104 Eoff, V. B. 64, 65, 110 Erway. H. E 11, 13, 68, 110 Eschweiler 100 Esnes 34. 35 Etraye 42, 46, 107 Fah- Forest, S. C 10, 15 Farrar, H. W 115 Fauberg Pave 41. 42, 106 Fav, G. A 86. 87, 91, 92, 110 Fehrs. C. \V 84, 110 Fitzsimmons. H. .J 82. 83, 110 Fletcher, A 62, 63, 110 Football 93 Ford, F. A 82, 83, 110 Forest Fires 27 Forges 33, 34, 37, lOS Fort Slocum 15 Fox, M 74, 110 Freas, N. J SO, 81, 110 Freese, R. J 84, 85, 110 French Armv Support 105. 106, 107 Frey. R. J 115 Frizzel. C 115 Fromerville 33 Gaddis, R. M 74, 110 Gaffney 11 Gas 32, 36, 37, 40, 44 Gercourt 38, 39, 40, 105 Gere. W. S 12, 56. 57, 110 Gerhart, L 115 Giselher Stellung 106, 107 Glass, J 68, 69, 110 Glassv Rock 11 Gluck, H 86, 110 Grimes, W. E 69, 110 Grobsmith, A. J 38. 72, (3, 91, 92, 110 Grover 11 to 1-1, NS, 91, Ifil Gustke, H. A 74. !)1. llll Hadley, H. A 72, 91, 110 Hadley, O. T 7S, 79. 91. 110 Hagen, Stellung 106,107 Hakes, L. M 76, 100,110 Hanna, D. V S2, 110 Haraumont Ftidgc 107 Hardy, R 115 Harvey, H. S 76, 77, 110 Havnes, E. E 12, 76, 110 Heffernan, R. F 84, 85, 110 Heimback 100 Heitzman, G. P 84,85,111 Hess, W 60, 61, 111 Hill, 319 107 Hill, 328 107 Hill, 356 107 Hixson, H. C 70, 71. Ill Horn, H 115 Hoffman. F. J 60, 61, 91, 111 Hoffman, G. E 66, 67.93, 111 Hogs. J. M 6fi, 67, 111 Hole, W 50, 56, 57, 111 Hollenbeck, A. T 70, 71, 91, 93, 111 Hollenbeck, B. R 66, 67, 111 Holm, K. A 68, 69, 111 Hotel Moderne 48 Houdaunville 42 Hughes, H. E 83, 100, 101, 111 Huth, R 115 Hynes, M. E 86, 92, 111 Inoculation 8 Irons, F. D 72, 73, 111 Jackson, B. K 115 Jackson, F. G 56, 57, 111 Jersey City 9 Johnson, L 74, 100, 101, 111 Jones. E. L 86. Ill Kearnev, P. J 115 Kelley, G. E 17, 25, 51, G8. 69. Ill Kelley, J. M 12. 61, 115 Kies. E. J., 13, 20, 21, 28. 31, 35, 38, 64, 65. 90, 94, 111 Kilmartin, W. A 72, 91, 111 King, Brig. Gen 106 King's Mountain 13 Kirkpatrick. C. W 12. 56, 57. HI Krigger, A 115 Kuhn, Maj. Gen.. J. E 42 La Chappelle-Althenaise 47. 49 Lange, E. S 78. Ill Ea Rochelle zi "Lattie" 15, 88 Laval 48. 49, 104 Lay ton, C, E 76, 111 Leakey, E. K 69, 111 Le Claii'e 37, 38, 40, 41. 104 Lignol 31 Liny 106 Lotheridge. C 61. 115 •'Louie's' 49, 94, 95 Lowe, N. M 68. 69. Ill Lyons, E. W 62. Ill McCue, Lieut. F S. 88 McCrystle, P. W. R 82, 83. 112 McGarry, J. A 74. 112 McKnight. W 37. 81. 100.101, 112 McNaer, Maj. Gen 47 Mahaney, R. J 74, 75, 100, 101. 112 Malone, W. E 78, 79, 112 Manning, O. F 13, 58, 59, 91, 112 Marines 50 Markhani. M. C 58, 59, 112 Martignas 29 Meigs, C. A 86. 87. 112 Messina Springs 8, 91. 104 Meuse river, 33, 34. 37. 41, 42, 44, 45, 97 105, 106, 107 Meyers, C. K 70, 71, 112 Michels, H. C 70, 71, 91, 92, 112 Miles, W. K 64, 112 Montagis 31 Mount Bazon 30 Montsurs 47, 48, 104 Morris, J. X 68, 112 Mo.'fber, R 115 M. P'.s; 2N, 29, 44. 48. 49. 98 "Mt. Vernon" 51 Munro, W. M 76. 100, 101, 112 Murphy, D. C 11.", Nagle, Ma.i. P. E 16, 47 Nantes z:i Na\al guns 41 Neel, H. E 78, 79, 112 Newman, S 15, 82, 112 Newport News 17, 19 New York 9, 51, 52, 104 Obermendig 100 Odagian, H. S 62, 112 O'Day, J. P 74, 75, 91, 92, 112 Oggelesby, H 115 Olmstead, Capt. H. W.. 4. 5. 10, 14, 27. 34, 42, 44, 54, 55, 88, 92. 97, 98. 99. 100. 103, 104, 112 O'Neill, W. T 15, 76, 112 Orleans 30, 31 Overland trip 29. 30, 31 Page. H. :M 41,78,79,112 Parade 9, 52, 104 Patelski, F. J 80,112 Pelham Ba v 9, 91. 104 Pershing. Gen •. 49, 104 Peters, F. J 74, 75, 112 Plant, E. J 72, 73, 112 Poems 16, 17. 18. 24, 40, 50, 89, 99, 102 Pollard, W. J 64, 65, 112 Pontanezan Bairacks 22 Porter, T. E..; 64.111' "Princess Matoika" 19, 20 Quinn, W. H 115 Radinsk\-, J 70, li3 Range detail 26, 27 Rausch, J. F 61, 82, 93, 113 Red Cross 9. 44. 51, 98 Reed, B. G 15, 44, 45, 60. 61, 113 Remount Detachment 8, 88 Reville 42, 46, 107 Revnolds, B. H 25. 74, 75, 113 Rickwalt, A 18, 62, 63, 113 Roster 108 to 114 Rowlands, T. A 115 Russian prisoners 46, 47 Ryan, J. R 48, 56, 57, 93, 100, 113 Samogneux 42, 44 Scarangello. S 86, 87, 113 Schmitt, F. J 61. 66, 67, 113 Scott, J. R 70, 113 Selig, L. N 91, 115 Sens 31 Septarges 34, 36 Shafer, C. A 56, 57, 70, 95, 113 Shelby 14 Sherman, H 82, 83, 113 Shero, F. J 74, 113 Siebert, A. T 82, 113 Simone, J. A 76, 113 Sivry 106 Slack, R. H 72. 73. 92, 113 Slopey, D. L 78. 79, 113 Smith. Col. E. T 105 Smith, E. r: 70. 71, 113 Smith. H. A 64. 65, 113 Smith, K. A 64, 65, 93, 113 Snake Road 10 Sollerino Farm 107 "Southern Hospitality" 10, 14 Spartanburg 10, 11 Spring, J. G 66, 67, 113 St. Medard 29 St. Nazaire 23. 26 St. Pierre, F. X 61, SO, 113 St. Suplice !'2 Stanbrook, R 5s. 59, 113 Stewart, A. M 34, 56, 57, 113 Stott, C. D 80, 113 Strodel, N. J 115 .Submarines 20 Sullivan. W. E 62,63,113 Sweet, Lieut. H. K.. 15, 16. 32. 41, 54, 55. 92, 103, 113 Syracuse 8, 9, 61, 88 Tarpev, W 76, 77, 114 Tavlor, K. A 64, 11! Tavloi', W. A 115 Tennis, T. E 56. 57, 91. 114 Thankss^iving Day 10. 47, 61 Thierville 42, Thro, D. G 13, 57, Tinte Brook Tours Trench du Teton Tucker, Chaplain Tucker, F. E 58, Sit, Turner, Kate Vaucherville 42, Vaudeville Performance Vaux Verbeck, Capt. G Verdun 32. 34, 41 to 47, 100, Vilosnes 106, Vroman, J. C 44, 56, 57, 61, Wavrille Weehauken Wermuth, W. D 80, Westman, C 64, "Wilhelmina" Wilson, A. P 70, Wolfe, Brig. Gen Y. M. C. A 21, lo, 44 114 107 30 105 46 114 12 44 14 42 S 104 107 114 107 51 114 114 10 114 106 51 13th F. A 3 4 25th Engineers 92 26th Division 106, 107 29th Division 105, lOi", 32nd Division 100, 105 33rd. Division 37. 40, 105, 106 52nd Brigade. . .26, 27, 47. 49. 105, 106, 107 G5th Division 106 79th Division 42, 47. 106, 107 80th Division 105 S3rd Division 49, 100 102nd Engineers 10 102nd M. P 48 102nd Supply Train 11, 14 102nd Trench Moilar Batterv 105, 106 104th F. A 33, 91, 105 105th F. A 91, 105 106, F. A 42, 105 157th Brigade 107 158th Brigade 1 06, 107 308th Am. Tn 100